41. Modern Policing With AJ

This year brought up even more conversations about racial justice in our country, and the role modern policing plays in the fight for equality. In the spirit of continuing the conversation, Brittany and Heather speak with law enforcement officer, AJ, Heather's husband.

This year brought up even more conversations about racial justice in our country, and the role modern policing plays in the fight for equality. In the spirit of continuing the conversation, Brittany and Heather speak with law enforcement officer, AJ, Heather’s husband. The Okayest Moms lead him through an open, honest conversation about the state of modern policing, and how it intersects with Black Lives Matter. Of course, no individual can perfectly capture every thought and feeling for a group as large and diverse as law enforcement. Brittany and Heather appreciate his willingness to speak from his own perspective and experiences and know that he does not speak for the entire group.

Who We Talked To

AJ has been in law enforcement for 10 years. He works for a large state agency, which has brought him to the Bay Area, as well as the Sacramento area. His position as officer has brought him to many different posts, and most currently works as a Public Information Officer with a focus on building and maintaining relations with the community his officer serves.

How law enforcement has changed over the last 10 years
How AJ’s mental health has suffered as a result of the demands of the job
The nuances of supporting law enforcement and Black Lives Matter at the same time
Thoughts on the Thin Blue Line flag

THINGS WE MENTIONED

We have an open conversation about modern policing, and the challenges facing law enforcement. AJ shares how the demands of the job have caused mental health challenges, and how he has overcome them. He also shares insights into what he thinks clouds the judgement of some officers, and where he thinks law enforcement needs to go to build bridges.

Shopping in 2020 is a whole new experience. I’m leaving the house way more than I was in the Spring, but shopping is still a big day out on the town. It’s basically the only time I get dressed anymore and put on a real pair of pants. I’m still only doing half a face of makeup though since I’m wearing my mask. So, if you’re looking for a big day out in the East Bay, we recommend Persimmon Place in Dublin. 

Persimmon Place features retailers such as Whole Foods, Sur La Table, Ethan Allen, and Nordstrom Rack. You can get your shopping done then relax in the spacious outdoor patios and integrated seating areas. 

We love that they’ve considered sustainability as part of their model including solar panels and windmills help reduce the center’s overall energy consumption.

Find more information about Persimmon Place and all of the other Regency Centers locations nationwide here.

Law Enforcement Spouses: It’s On Us to Fix This

We see this podcast as a conversation with friends. Except all you can do is listen. Ha! But, if you have something to add, we’d love to hear from you! Shoot us an email at [email protected]! Or you can find us on our blog, or on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. We even have an Etsy shop!