Built Different

From Afghanistan to Effingham County: John’s Path to Law Enforcement | Built Different EP 12

In this episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Collin Ledbetter is joined by John, a sergeant and K-9 handler with the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office and a Marine Corps veteran. Collin and John discuss John's journey from military service to law enforcement, sharing stories about deployments to Afghanistan and Okinawa, as well as the unique challenges of balancing police work and family life.John dives into his day-to-day experiences as a K-9 officer, highlighting the rewards and sacrifices of working with a dual-purpose dog. The conversation also explores the importance of integrity, mentorship, and avoiding burnout as a young officer in a demanding profession. From military camaraderie to the realities of policing in a small community, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and heartfelt reflections on service and sacrifice.Follow Punchline Productionshttps://www.instagram.com/punchline_productions_314/https://punchlineproductions.co/Follow Colinhttps://www.instagram.com/colin_a_25/#FirstResponders #lawenforcement #police

BackStoppers: Supporting First Responder Families with Mike Simms | Built Different EP 11

In this episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Collin Ledbetter is joined by Mike Simms, President of the Jefferson County Backstoppers and a board member of Guns N’ Hoses. Together, they discuss the incredible work Backstoppers.org does to support the families of fallen and injured first responders, ensuring they receive financial assistance, education, counseling, and more.Mike shares how his personal connection to law enforcement inspired him to get involved with Backstoppers, an organization that has been making a difference for 65 years. Learn about the annual fundraising efforts, including the iconic Guns N’ Hoses event, and the importance of community support and memberships to sustain their mission.Collin also opens up about how his own family was supported by Backstoppers, highlighting the life-changing impact this organization has on families in need. Whether you’re a first responder, a supporter, or just learning about this vital nonprofit, this episode sheds light on how you can get involved and make a difference.Follow Colinhttps://www.instagram.com/colin_a_25/Check out BackStoppershttps://backstoppers.org/Follow Punchline Productionshttps://www.instagram.com/punchline_productions_314/https://punchlineproductions.co/#BuiltDifferentPodcast #Backstoppers #GunsNHoses #FirstResponders #CommunitySupport #Nonprofit #LawEnforcementFamilies #SupportLocalHeroes

Behind the Badge and Beyond | Built Different | EP 10

In this episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Collin Ledbetter is joined by Brad, a former St. Louis City police officer and current member of a suburban police department. Brad and Collin reflect on their years working together in District 6, sharing stories from the frontlines of one of the city's toughest areas.The conversation dives deep into the unique challenges of law enforcement, the importance of family support, and the mental toughness required to face high-pressure situations. Whether you're interested in policing, military service, or tales of grit and determination, this episode is packed with real-life lessons and insights.Follow Colinhttps://www.instagram.com/colin_a_25/Follow Punchline Productionshttps://www.instagram.com/punchline_productions_314/https://punchlineproductions.co/#BuiltDifferentPodcast #LawEnforcement #SpecialForcesSelection #PoliceLife #MilitaryStories #BehindTheBadge #FirstResponders

A Navy Veteran’s Path to Policing in St. Louis | Built Different EP 9

In this episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Collin Ledbetter welcomes St. Louis Police Officer Dylan to share stories from his five years of policing in District 6. Dylan reflects on his journey from growing up in DeSoto, Missouri, to serving in the Navy, and eventually transitioning into law enforcement.The two discuss Dylan’s time in the Navy, including his deployments to Japan and Cambodia, and the unexpected path that led him to the police academy in 2019. Dylan recounts his rookie days in the academy, the challenges of adapting to high-crime areas like Walnut Park, and the unique experiences that come with policing one of St. Louis’ most intense districts.With humor and insight, Dylan and Collin dive into the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of their shared profession. Whether you’re interested in military stories, law enforcement, or just love a good laugh, this episode has it all.Follow Colinhttps://www.instagram.com/colin_a_25/Follow Punchline Productionshttps://www.instagram.com/punchline_productions_314/https://punchlineproductions.co/#BuiltDifferentPodcast #PoliceLife #StLouis #NavyVeteran #LawEnforcementStories #BehindTheBadge #FirstResponders

Marine Veteran Turned Police Officer | Built Different EP 8

In this episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Collin Ledbetter reconnects with his former partner and Marine Corps veteran, Officer Josh, from the Fairview Heights Police Department. Together, they dive into the stark contrasts between policing in St. Louis’ high-crime District 6 and the more suburban environment of Fairview Heights, where retail thefts and traffic accidents take center stage over violent crimes.Josh shares his journey from serving in the Marine Corps to joining law enforcement, highlighting stories from their time as partners in St. Louis. From adrenaline-fueled moments chasing suspects to navigating riot lines, they recount the highs, lows, and camaraderie that define life on the force.Whether you’re curious about the differences in policing environments or just love a good story from the frontlines, this episode offers humor, insight, and heartfelt reflections on their shared experiences.Follow Colinhttps://www.instagram.com/colin_a_25/Follow Punchline Productionshttps://www.instagram.com/punchline_productions_314/https://punchlineproductions.co/#BuiltDifferentPodcast #PoliceStories #LawEnforcement #FairviewHeights #StLouisPolice #MarineCorpsVeteran #FirstResponders

Rookie Mistakes and Hard Lessons: Life as a St. Louis Police Officer | Built Different EP 7

In this episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Collin Ledbetter sits down with Greg, a 15-year veteran of the St. Louis Police Department, to share a mix of hilarious and heartfelt stories from their time in law enforcement. From a rookie mishap involving a stolen gun belt to navigating the challenges of working nights in one of the city’s toughest districts, Greg reflects on the lessons he’s learned and the evolution of his career.Collin and Greg dive into what it’s like to adapt to changes in technology, societal norms, and department culture while staying grounded in the ever-demanding world of policing. With humor and candidness, they explore the realities of life as a police officer, including the sacrifices, camaraderie, and whether or not they’d recommend the job to future generations.This episode is packed with humor, insight, and the kind of real talk that gives listeners a glimpse into the life behind the badge. Don’t miss it!#BuiltDifferentPodcast #PoliceLife #LawEnforcementStories #RealTalk #FirstResponders #BehindTheBadge

104 Years of Fire Fighting | Augusta Fire Department | Built Different

Truth or Myth? Real Stories About Law Enforcement | Built Different

In this special episode of the Built Different Podcast, the tables turn as Collin Ledbetter becomes the guest and Corey Schonhorst, the creative mind behind Punchline Productions, takes on the role of host. Join Corey and Collin as they tackle some lighthearted myths and real-life insights about law enforcement in a fun, Mythbusters style format.From the classic donut stereotype to uncovering hidden truths about police stops and procedures, this episode offers a mix of humor, personal stories, and surprising facts. Corey also shares the story behind Punchline Productions and their collaboration on the Built Different Podcast, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at what makes this podcast possible.Whether you're here for laughs, learning, or a peek into the life of a police officer, this episode has something for everyone. Don’t miss it!Follow Colinhttps://www.instagram.com/colin_a_25/Follow Coreyhttps://www.instagram.com/cschonhorst_/

Law Enforcement to Corporate Security: Kate’s Story of Change and Challenge | Built Different

In this episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Collin Ledbetter sits down with Kate, a former deputy from the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department who now works as a cybersecurity engineer. Kate shares her journey from law enforcement to the corporate world, describing the unique challenges and rewards of each role. Together, they dive into her daily responsibilities at the courthouse, stories from the road, and the lessons she learned on the job—from serving court orders to handling high-stakes situations with confidence.Kate also opens up about her transition to cybersecurity, where she now assesses digital threats and protects sensitive information from behind a computer screen. For those considering a career change or interested in the parallels between public service and corporate security, this conversation offers valuable insights into resilience, adaptability, and the importance of camaraderie.

An Officer’s Perspective on Policing in St. Louis | Built Different

Collin Ledbetter's Built Different Podcast brings you an inside look into the lives and careers of law enforcement professionals, with firsthand stories that highlight both the challenges and rewarding moments of police work. In this episode, Collin is joined by his former colleague, Griffin Montgomery, who currently works in the District 6 Detective Bureau for the St. Louis Police Department. Together, they talk about Griffin's journey, from his daily responsibilities investigating cases to managing the overwhelming caseload and balancing the stresses of work with family life.Listeners will hear stories from the frontlines, where staffing shortages and intense crime rates have transformed the department, and gain insight into how officers cope with the daily grind, decompress, and find moments of camaraderie despite the difficulties. Join Collin and Griffin for a real, unfiltered look at life behind the badge.Follow Colinhttps://www.instagram.com/colin_a_25/