Do you want to pass the background investigation? Retired veteran LAPD background investigator, Ken Roybal will help you navigate the hiring process for police departments in the US and Canada. Let's get you hired! Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/
The Police Applicant Podcast is an exceptional resource for anyone considering a career in law enforcement. From providing invaluable information on the application process to offering insightful tips and advice, this podcast is a must-listen for aspiring police officers. The hosts and creators of the podcast do an excellent job staying on topic and conducting engaging discussions with guests from various law enforcement agencies. They cover a wide range of topics, including the requirements, tips for success and failure, and what it takes to stand out in a highly competitive field. Whether you're from Washington state or any other part of the country, this podcast offers valuable insights that can help you navigate the hiring process with confidence.
The best aspect of The Police Applicant Podcast is its ability to provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to become a police officer. The hosts delve into various aspects of the application process, including background investigations, fitness tests, interviews, and more. They also interview guests who share their personal experiences in law enforcement, giving listeners a real-world perspective on what it's like to work in this field. Additionally, the episodes are full of practical advice that can help applicants succeed at each stage of the hiring process.
As for the worst aspect of this podcast, it's difficult to find any major flaws. However, one minor drawback is that some episodes may not be as relevant or helpful depending on where you are in your own application process. For example, if you have already completed most steps and are just awaiting your fitness test and background investigation interview, some earlier episodes may not provide much new information.
In conclusion, The Police Applicant Podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone considering a career in law enforcement. With engaging discussions, diverse perspectives from guests in various agencies, and practical advice for every step of the application process, this podcast provides listeners with all they need to prepare themselves successfully. Whether you're just starting out or nearing the end of your journey toward becoming a police officer, this podcast will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to stand out among other applicants.
May 25, 2025: This is an update on the recent L.A. City Council vote to slash LAPD hiring from 480 recruits per year to 240.
Trevor moved from the south to become a cop in Washington State. Unfortunately, he had some training issues after being hired. But he's not giving up. Hear his story to see what he's learned from his journey and how he's persevering to achieve his dream!-----For those who aren't subscribers: Have we helped you with our podcast content, or with a phone call or email advice? You can now show your love at buymeacoffee.com! Here are the links in the event you'd like to express your appreciation if we've made a difference:buymeacoffee.com/kenroybalbuymeacoffee.com/donovanheavenerBonus: Our books are discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!! (Email us for your discount code.)You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRTContact us:ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
AI joins the podcast! This episode is hosted by 100% not humans. :D What is the Policebackground.net consultation all about? Let's get into it with NotebookLM!_____Background Consultations: www.policebackground.netFor those who aren't subscribers: Have we helped you with our podcast content, or with a phone call or email advice? You can now show your love at buymeacoffee.com! Here are the links in the event you'd like to express your appreciation if we've made a difference:buymeacoffee.com/kenroybalbuymeacoffee.com/donovanheavenerBonus: Our books are discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!! (Email us for your discount code.)You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRTContact us:ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
In this episode we interview Mike, an officer from Indiana, who had a difficult time getting hired. His journey will help a lot of candidates.Bonus: Our books are discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!! (Email us for your discount code.)You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRTContact us:ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
Here's your podcast updates and news for May 2025!Bonus: Our books are discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!! (Email us for your discount code.)You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRTContact us:ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
The City of Los Angeles is $1 billion dollars in the hole. How will this affect LAPD hiring? Let's find out.
In this episode we reinterview Jen. L. from episode 20! She's been on the job for four years now and has since lateralled to Tennessee!! Let's catch up on her journey and why she left California!Bonus: Our books are discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!! (Email us for your discount code.)You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRTContact us:ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
This is a republish of Donovan's interview about polygraphs. Donovan answers all your questions!______Great news!! Ken and Donovan's new eBooks are now available! Ken's book is "Police Background Investigations: Inside the Mind of a Background Investigator. "Donovan's book is "Mastering the Police Interview: A Guide for Aspiring Officers."Bonus: Our books are discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!! (Subscribers: Email us for your discount code.)You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRTContact us:ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
This is a SUBSCRIBER PRE-RELEASE. The episode will be released to the public on Friday-April 4th, 2025.In this episode we interview Marie, who started out as a podcast listener and is a recent hire from Ohio. Her application process was not without surprises!Great news!! Ken and Donovan's new eBooks are now available! Ken's book is "Police Background Investigations: Inside the Mind of a Background Investigator. "Donovan's book is "Mastering the Police Interview: A Guide for Aspiring Officers."Bonus: Our books are discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!! (Email us for your discount code.)You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRTContact us:ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
In this episode we interview well-known retired federal agent and author Ken Strange. Ken spent time with the FBI and other federal agencies traveling the globe and fighting terrorism. This is a compelling story! He is the author of "A Cop's Son: One G-Man's Fight Against Jihad, Global Fraud And The Cartels."Find it here:https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-cops-son-kenneth-strange/1144605528;jsessionid=A1DA991ECD5DE49B1091A3B61F5B5181.prodny_store02-atgap10?ean=9781951008703Contact us:ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.netminerva[atsign]policebackground.net
This is a Subscriber Pre-Release. The public episode will be published on Friday - March 7, 2025.In this episode we discuss common reasons why recruits fail the academy. You need to be locked on for the entire academy. Find out in this episode.________Great news!! Ken and Donovan's new eBooks are now available! Listen to this special announcement.-Ken's book is "Police Background Investigations: Inside the Mind of a Background Investigator. "-Donovan's book is "Mastering the Police Interview: A Guide for Aspiring Officers." Bonus: Our books are discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!!You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRT
This is a subscriber pre-release. The public episode will be available in Friday-February 21, 2025._____In this episode we interview Julian and Nate from Inner Circle Protection in Arizona. They teach tactical firearms training to police and civilians. We discussed why police applicants need to know about firearms before and after being hired.Website: https://inner360protection.com/Ken's book is "Police Background Investigations: Inside the Mind of a Background Investigator. " Bonus: Ken's book is discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!!Donovan's book is "Mastering the Police Interview: A Guide for Aspiring Officers." You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRTken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
Great news!! Ken and Donovan's new eBooks are now available! Listen to this special announcement.Ken's book is "Police Background Investigations: Inside the Mind of a Background Investigator. "Donovan's book is "Mastering the Police Interview: A Guide for Aspiring Officers." Bonus:Ken's book is discounted 50% for podcast subscribers!!You're going to love these great new podcast offerings!!Purchase your copies today:Ken's Book: https://payhip.com/b/BFYjgDonovan's Book: https://payhip.com/b/AVlRT
In this episode we interview former officer Scott Medlin. Scott's story in compelling. He was a U.S. Marine and police officer. His path changed mid-career and he's now a sought-after public speaker for first responders. You don't want to miss this one! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
In this special presentation, Commander Eric Tung tells us about his new "Blue Grit Police Testing & Hiring Guide." You can find the guide at https://www.bluegritwellness.com/product-page/police-testing-hiring-guide
Welcome to Season 5!! In this episode, Ken interviews special guests Captain Robin Pertillo of LAPD Recruitment & Employment Division (RED), and Investigator Jesse Cohen of the Westminster, CO PD Recruitment Unit. Also joining as a guest/co-host is Donovan Heavener of the Federal Way PD (WA). The topic is police recruitment in 2025. We're sure you'll enjoy the valuable insights our guests provided! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
This is a SUBSCRIBER PRE-RELEASE. The episode will be available to the public on Friday - January 10th. ________ On this episode we see how backgrounds are down in the great state of Texas! We sit down with Jared to talk about his journey to being hired. We think you'll really enjoy this episode! ______ ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net Background consultations: www.policebackground.net
This is a SUBSCRIBER PRE-RELEASE. The public episode will be available on Friday-December 27th. ____ In this episode we interview Washington State Patrol Trooper Bryan Villanueva. He was adopted in a family that didn't provide a good upbringing. A deputy sheriff mentored him and set him on the right path. He shares his story of adversity, success, and the path to applying and getting hired! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
In this episode we interview John, who is a three-year deputy sheriff out of Maryland. John has been a long-time podcast listener and found us via the Things Police See Podcast. We discuss the hiring process, background, academy, FTO, and war stories! This is a great episode we think you'll enjoy! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
In this episode we interview the commanding officer of the LAPD Recruitment & Employment Division (RED.) She's in charge of the units that determine whether an applicant will be hired or not. Join us as we sit down with her, and she takes us behind the mystery of LAPD backgrounds and hiring. ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
In this episode we interview retired Kennewick PD (WA) Sgt. Chris Littrell. He was a successful police officer and detective working child abuse crimes. PTSD crept in and he had to make a choice about his survival. Tragedy struck in 2024 when he lost his daughter in a traffic accident. This is his story of pain, resiliency, and the road to healing. ken[at]policebackground.net donovan[at]policebackground.net
This is a SUBSCRIBER PRE-RELEASE. The public episode will be published on Friday - Nov. 1st. ___ In this episode Ken and Donovan discuss out favotire Reddit posts!! This is gonna be a blast!! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
L.A. County Deputy Sheriff Trevor Kirk is being unjustly prosecuted by the federal DOJ for lawful actions he took during a misdemeanor arrest. Former Sheriff Alex Villanueva discusses the case and shares how we can help Trevor and his family. Fundraiser for Trevor Kirk by Zack Bonn : Donate to Assist Trevor and His Family
Join us as we interview Officers Johnson and Badri of the Portland Police Bureau about what it's like to work for their department. This is one of our Pacific Northwest agencies that's currently hiring! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
This is a Subscriber Pre-Release. The public version will be published on Friday, October 4, 2024. In this episode, we interview recruiters from the Seattle PD. We explore what it takes to join this department in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, along with the incredible benefits and compensation they provide! www.policebackground.net ken(at)policebackground.net donovan(at)policebackground.net
Let's catch on what's happening on the podcast!!
In this episode we interview WSP Trooper/Recruiter Heather Axtman! She tells us what it's like to be a 16-year veteran trooper and recruiter. We talk all about what the WSP has to offer for those interested in the Pacific Northwest!ken[atsign]policebackground.netdonovan[atsign]policebackground.net
The LAPD poly is out! LAPD is taking over Backgrounds from the Personnel Department. Let's talk about it!
We wanted to do something special for our milestone 100th episode. So, we got all of our hosts - Christine, Minerva, Donovan, and Ken together and had a reunion. Join us as we reminisce about how the podcast got started, our history, and why each episode is special to us. Thank you to our amazing listeners for this remarkable journey and we share why we do what we do. _____ ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net minvera[atsign]policebackground.net
In this episode we catch up with Investigator Jesse Cohen of the Westminster Police Department in Colorado. Jesse was our guest on episode 72. Today we find out what's new in Westie and why you should apply there!! _________ Email Inv. Cohen: jacohen@westminsterco.gov Apply at WPD: Join WPD (westminsterco.gov) ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net www.policebackground.net
Welcome to our NEW series: The Recruitment Corner! In this premier episode we interview Lt. Williams from the Fond du Lac PD in Wisconsin. Learn what it's like to work in Fond du Lac and why in may be a good fit for you! Police Patrol Officer - Human Resources - City of Fond du Lac (wi.gov)
This is a Subscriber Pre-Release. The publish episode will be published on Friday - August 9, 2024. ________________ In this episode we interview Evan. Evan is a podcast listener on the East Coast who was recently hired and starts the academy soon. Let's find out what his hiring journey was like!! Contact us! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
in this episode we interview our co-host Minerva about everything from pensions, medical insurance into retirement, and everything a new police officer needs to know about not ending up broke in 30 years!! Contact Minera: Instagram @lady_g213 Email: minerva[atsign]policebackground.net ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackgorund.net
This is a subscriber pre-release. The public release with be on Friday - July 12th, 2024. In this episode we interview Nick Lopez, a former LAPD officer who endured the 2020 riots, which resulted in his inability to continue pursuing his career in law enforcement. Nick has gone on to a career in mental health therapy in the law enforcement community. Hear his story of the hiring process, the academy, FTO and later. Contact Nick: Instagram @codethreeindustries Nick on The Prime Initiative Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KLHJoN-e3s0?si=zNB0mqxOcc60FKfy ____ Contact ken[atsign]policebackgorund.net Donovan[atsign]policebackground.net
This is a midweek news update for the podcast. Let's catch up!! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
This is a subscriber pre-release. The public release will be on Friday-June 28th. _____ in this episode we interview Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak. Sheriff Kozak is a no-nonsense old school law enforcement officer. He's also the sheriff who place a recruitment billboard outside Denver PD's offices! Let's see if being a deputy sheriff in Wyoming is your calling. _____ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
In this episode we interview Kristofor Healey, who is a former Special Agent who spent his career directing large scale, multi-defendant fraud and public corruption investigations domestically and overseas, including leading the largest tele-fraud case in U.S. history. We discussed how bad police hiring can result in bad police officers. We know you'll enjoy this one!! Find Kristofor: KRISTOFOR HEALEY Kristofor's Books: Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man In Valor: 365 Meditations for First Responders The Stoic Responder Podcast: The Stoic Responder on Apple Podcasts ____ ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
Are there BI's who shouldn't be BI's? Absolutely! In this episode, Donovan, Minverva, and Ken talk about why some BI's shouldn't be assigned to conduct background investigations. We think you'll like this episode! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net minerva[atsign]policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
In today's episode, Ken and Commander Eric Tung (Kent, WA PD) discuss different topics from recruitment standards, 30x30, and leadership. Eric is a frequent guest and huge supporter of the podcast. Find Eric at: Instagram @bluegritwellness Podcast: Blue Grit Radio Our emails: ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
This is a SUBSCRIBER PRE-RELEASE. This episode will be released to the public on Friday - May 3, 2024. Become a subscriber today to gain early access to every episode! _____ In this episode we interview Andy who is an active police officer and owner of Summit Performance Labs in the mid-west U.S. Andy discusses what it takes to be in peak physical condition and mental fitness before entering the academy. Contact Andy on Instagram @summitperfomancelabs Email: ken[at sign]policebackground.net donovan[at sign]policebackground.net Background Investigation Consultations: www.policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
We're in the process of gathering stories about your experiences with bad background investigators. One of our most popular YouTube episodes is titled "Did Your BI Do you Wrong?" with over 2000 views! We're updating the episode as a podcast version, and you can participate by submitting your stories. Email ken[atsign]policebackground.net to share your bad experiences and we'll call you. All of your stories will be confidential, and we NEVER share your information. Be a part of this episode with your stories by emailing us today!! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
This is a subscriber pre-release. The public episode will be released on Friday - April 19th. Become a subscriber today! In this episode we welcome back retired deputy sheriff Scott Stone, who is now a polygraph examiner. This episode is about the CVSA and a brand-new cutting-edge technology called EyeDetect. Could EyeDetect become mainstream for police hiring? Let's find out! ken[atsign]policebackground.net donovan[atsign]policebackground.net Police Background Consultations: www.policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
Join us as we interview Mark & Heather Priebe. Mark was a 21-year police veteran in Springfield, MO. On June 9, 2020, Mark was outside the police station when he was intentionally run over by a mentally ill individual. He was left paralyzed due to his injuries. In this episode we talk with Mark and heather about that fateful day and how their lives changed as a result. Priebe Strong Foundation: https://priebestrongfoundation.com/ Email ken[atsign]policebackground.net Email donovan[atsign]policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
This is a subscriber pre-release. The public episode will be available on Friday-March 22, 2024. In this special episode we interview retired LAPD sergeant and IA investigator, Marlon Marrache. Internal Affairs investigations - police applicants are never told about this part of the job. Let's go behind the scenes and find out about this topic with a veteran investigator! _______ Emails: ken[at sign]policebackground.net donovan[at sign]policebackground.net ______ Background investigation consultations: www.policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
This is a Subscriber pre-release. This episode will be publicly released on Friday-March 8, 2024. Joe Lebowsky is back!! In this episode we discuss everything federal law enforcement. Did you know there are TONS of federal LE jobs? TONS! Joe breaks it down for us. Visit Joe's website www.golawenforcement.com for everything police applicant related. Email ken{at sign}policebackground.net Donovan{at sign}policebackground.net Police Background Prep: www.policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
Join us as we interview Matthew & Erin Zauss. They mastered the art of the police family work/life balance. Here's what we talked about: - What's it like being in a police family? - Did you have "The Talk?" - What coping skills do you need? - How do you keep your sanity? ...and more. We know you'll enjoy this episode!! ________________________ Email ken[at sign]policebackground.net Email donovan[at sign]policebackground.net Police applicant consultations: www.policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
In this episode we interview Mike Flores and Attorney Nicole Castronovo of NBISS in California. They put on a four-day BI course so background investigators can be POST certified to conduct investigations. You're not POST certified? You can't conduct investigations. This is a really interesting interview that will benefit candidates and background units across the nation! Follow @NBISS_Agency and nic_rachel on Instagram Email ken[@sign]policebackground.net Email donovan[@sign]policebackground.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
This is a Subscriber Pre-Release episode. The public release with be on Friday - January 26th. ______________ In this episode, we interview Joe Libowsky. Joe has done just about everything in law enforcement and now own golawenforcement.com. He assists police candidates with all kinds of information on his website and is now bringing all of his knowledge to our podcast. _____________ Email Ken: ken[at sign]policebackground.net Email Donovan: donovan[at sign]policebackgorund.net --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
In this episode we held a background investigator round-table with veteran BI's Mike Flores, Donovan Heavener and Ken Roybal. We discuss the Meet & Greet Interview what to expect when you meet your BI. You don't want to miss this one! Follow Mike Flores and his background investigation and training on Instagram @nbiss_agency _______________ Contact Ken: ken[at sign]policebackground.net Contact Donovan: donovan[at sign]policebackground.net Go to www.policebackground.net for your background consultation --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
In this episode we interview noted Forensic Psychologist Dr. Nicole Vienna of The Vienna Psychological Group in San Dimas, California. Dr. Vienna has conducted pre-employment and appeal evaluations for police applicants. Do you want to know all about the psych eval? Let's go! This is a request we get often from our listeners. Let us know how you liked the episode! Dr. Vienna FAQ's: https://www.viennapsychologicalgroup.com/faq/ ------------------- Contact Ken: ken[at sign]policebackground.net Contact Donovan: donovan[at sign]policebackground.net Go to www.policebackground.net for your background consultation --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
Become a subscriber for only $4.99 per month! Go to www.podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/subscribe _______________ In this episode we interview retired El Paso SD (Colorado) Inv. Scott Stone. Scott's partner, Deputy Micah Flick was killed in the line of duty while trying to arrest a GTA suspect. Scott was shot as well and had to retire. This happened in February 2018. Scott discusses the incident, Micah Flick, the aftermath of a traumatic incident and what police applicants need to know going into the job. ------------------- Contact Ken: ken[at sign]policebackground.net Contact Donovan: donovan[at sign]policebackground.net Go to www.policebackground.net for your background consultation --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pdbackgrounds/message
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