Leadership Through an Open Lens

This episode is sponsored by Motorola Solutions: Solving for Safer and Off Duty Management: Built By Officers, For Officers.

For more information visit: Motorola Solutions and Off Duty Management.

“Leadership Through an Open Lens” is designed for public safety personnel who want to strengthen their leadership skills in a modern, transparent, and human-centered way. Today’s episode emphasizes the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and role modeling as essential tools for building trust and credibility both within the department and in the community.

Dr. Marcy Hehnly, PhD, is an educator, criminal justice professional, life coach, and U.S. Army veteran whose career reflects a commitment to leadership, resilience, and service. She is an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Valdosta State University, where she inspires students through engaging teaching and mentorship, drawing on her extensive background in law enforcement and military service. With more than 15 years of experience in roles ranging from patrol officer and field training officer to narcotics agent and community policing leader, she has developed a deep understanding of justice, accountability, and the challenges faced by those in uniform.

Beyond academia, Dr. Hehnly is a mentor and coach dedicated to first responder wellness and leadership development. As Vice President of Project Overwatch, she has led over eight men’s and women’s mental health retreats, fostering resilience and peer support. She also conducts boxing and life skills classes, empowering first responders to become role models and mentors for children in foster care. In addition, she serves as a life coach for Sharp Performance, guiding first responders through mental health challenges and performance optimization. Her career embodies the values of leading by example, building resilience, and coaching others to grow into strong leaders—whether in the classroom, the community, or on the front lines of public safety.