Episode Summary
In this gripping episode of The Longest Day Podcast, Leah is joined by Mike Roe, a former police commander turned tech CEO. Mike recounts the story of his longest day, a day when he found himself at the center of a crisis that shook Bristol. His experience offers a profound exploration of leadership, resilience, and the ethical dilemmas faced in high-pressure roles.

Key Points

1. The Crack Cocaine Crisis in Bristol: Mike describes how a surge of crack cocaine flooded the streets of Bristol in the early 2000s, leading to a dramatic rise in crime and placing immense pressure on local law enforcement.
2. Clash with the Home Office: Mike shares his struggles with government authorities, including a conflict with Home Secretary David Blunkett, who initially sought his dismissal.
3. Media Exposure with The Guardian: Mike reveals how he and his chief constable collaborated with The Guardian to expose the negative impact of crime targets on policing.
4. Leading Through Crisis: Mike reflects on how he maintained his values, supported his team, and navigated a challenging political landscape during his longest day.
5. Transitioning to Tech Leadership: Drawing on his police experience, Mike discusses how his understanding of leadership, data, and resilience helped him build a successful career as a tech CEO.

Best Quote

“Leadership is about values, resilience, and sometimes compromise. You don’t get to pick your crisis — but you do get to choose how you lead through it.”

Guest and host information

Find Mike Roe here:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-j-roe
• www.tensense.ai

Find Leah Brown FRSA here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-brown-frsa-b71b0844/ and @leahtalks_ on Instagram, TikTok and X.

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