Modern Policing: The Next Generation with Greg Schaffer & Armando Valenzuela | Built Different 30

In this episode of Built Different, Colin Ledbetter sits down with veteran St. Louis police officer Greg Schaffer and new recruit Armando Valenzuela for an unfiltered conversation on the realities of modern policing — from leadership breakdowns to brotherhood, burnout, and rebuilding trust within the force.

Greg, a 16-year department veteran, opens up about the darkest moments of his career — from the chaos of the George Floyd riots to his own battles with mental health and the toll of service.

Armando shares his path from Army Ranger to software developer to police officer, reflecting on standards, discipline, and why he still believes in the mission despite the challenges.

Together, they discuss what it means to lead with integrity, the need for vulnerability in a culture built on toughness, and why the future of policing depends on raising — not lowering — the standard.

This episode is a raw look at the human side of the badge, the cost of service, and the next generation stepping up to carry the torch.

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