In our latest episode of Cutting Through the Clutter, host Cyndee Woolley welcomes Erik Lavigne, founder of the podcast Two Cops One Donut and a law enforcement veteran with nearly two decades of experience. This isn’t your typical police PR interview – it’s a refreshingly honest conversation about building genuine trust between law enforcement and communities.
Subscribe to Cutting Through The Clutter on iTunes / Spotify
Erik brings a unique perspective to the table. As a midnight shift Real Time Crime Center Sergeant in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and former police academy instructor, he’s witnessed firsthand how traditional police public relations efforts often miss the mark. Instead of photo ops with puppies, Erik advocates for authentic storytelling that acknowledges both perspectives in the police-community dialogue.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- Why “copaganda” fails to build real trust
- The three pillars of effective de-escalation: emotional intelligence, social skills, and training confidence
- How technology like body cameras and real-time crime centers are transforming emergency communication
- The importance of breaking echo chambers through balanced dialogue
Erik’s background is as diverse as his approach – from Air Force Security Forces to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt (he believes all officers should achieve blue belt proficiency). His military experience and martial arts expertise inform his holistic view of community policing, emphasizing physical, mental, and emotional preparedness.
Through his multimedia venture “DTv (The Donut)” and podcast Two Cops One Donut, Erik demonstrates how authentic engagement – not traditional PR tactics – creates meaningful connections between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Links and Resources:
Connect with Erik Lavigne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/two-cops-one-donut/
Check out Two Cops One Donut website: https://twocopsonedonut.com/
“Two Cops One Donut” Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-cops-one-donut/id1565682051
Available on all major podcast platforms (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Pandora, and more!)
Ready to cut through the communication clutter in your community? Listen to this thought-provoking conversation that challenges assumptions and inspires genuine dialogue.
