Episode 954: A Different Way of Thinking w/ Ely Alfonso & Mike Swirchak

In Episode 954 of the Street Cop Podcast, host Dennis Benigno and
instructor Ely Alfonso sit down with Mike Swirchak, a former law
enforcement officer and K9 handler who now excels as a dog
trainer in North Carolina. Mike shares his journey from the
challenges of law enforcement to becoming a government contractor
and ultimately finding his passion in dog training. Listen as he
reflects on the current state of K9 units, the importance of
innovative training methods, and the personal connections forged
between officers and their K9 partners. We’ll explore the mental
health challenges in law enforcement, the courage it takes to
embrace change, and the fulfillment that comes from following
your life's purpose. Don’t miss this insightful conversation
about evolution, purpose, and the special bond between humans and
dogs.





Timestamps:


00:00:00:00 - 00:01:09:01 Teaser 00:01:09:01 - 00:01:44:04 Intro
00:01:44:04 - 00:02:57:10 Mike’s background 00:02:57:10 -
00:04:35:16 Mike’s experience working in Afghanistan 00:04:35:16
- 00:05:42:10 Good memories with Mike and Elia 00:05:42:10 -
00:07:05:06 The hardships of leaving law enforcement 00:07:05:06
- 00:12:24:09 The current state of K9 and training in law
enforcement 00:12:24:09 - 00:16:17:06 The origin of Dennis’ drive
00:16:17:06 - 00:22:29:10 Thinking outside of the box & the
detriments of ego 00:22:29:10 - 00:27:23:13 Utilizing specialists
to teach & poor policy 00:27:23:13 - 00:31:36:23 The decline
of K9 units in law enforcement 00:31:36:23 - 00:33:09:18 The
personal value of dogs 00:33:09:18 - 00:34:43:17 Training issues
with dogs 00:34:43:17 - 00:36:48:11 Mike’s thoughts on his
current company 00:36:48:11 - 00:38:58:04 Does Mike regret
leaving law enforcement? 00:38:58:04 - 00:43:57:13 The winning
mindset 00:43:57:13 - 00:48:00:11 Fear of change & taking a
leap of faith 00:48:00:11 - 00:50:57:14 Mental health in law
enforcement 00:50:57:14 - 00:53:59:24 Following your life’s
purpose 00:53:59:24 - 00:54:34:05 Outro