After three decades in Canadian law enforcement — from the RCMP to Chief of Police in Woodstock — Mitch MacMillan has seen the highs and lows of policing firsthand. In this candid interview, Mitch opens up about what’s really going on inside modern policing, public distrust, leadership failures, moral challenges, and life after the badge. He also shares touching stories of compassion, community, and redemption — and how farming blueberries with his son became his next chapter.

Whether you’re curious about policing in Canada, the human side of law enforcement, or the moral toll of serving in uniform, this conversation offers raw insight from a man who’s lived it.

00:00 – Introduction
Ben introduces retired Staff Sergeant Mitch MacMillan, outlining his 30-year career with the RCMP and as Chief of Police in Woodstock.

06:00 – Why Policing Isn’t What You Think
Mitch explains how most officers join to help others, not to control — and how public perception and social media have distorted that truth.

12:00 – Wearing Many Hats: What Officers Really Do
From priest to counselor to law enforcer — Mitch breaks down how modern officers juggle impossible expectations.

35:00 – Do Police Have Ticket Quotas?
He sets the record straight on quotas, prevention policing, and community engagement — including giving gift cards instead of tickets.

44:00 – The Decline of Public Trust
Mitch recalls how growing up meant “find a policeman if you’re lost,” versus today’s “don’t trust them” mentality — and what needs to change.

46:00 – Stories That Stay With You
Emotional stories of kindness, including a phone call from a troubled teen decades later, and how simple compassion can restore faith in the badge.

50:00 – A Christmas Story from the Force
Mitch shares a moving story about officers secretly buying gifts for children after responding to a broken home call on Christmas Eve.

52:00 – Corruption and the Constitution
A candid discussion on whether corruption exists in Canadian policing — and the importance of understanding the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

59:00 – Faith, Morality, and the Burden of the Job
Mitch reflects on the moral and spiritual weight of carrying a gun, and reconciling faith with the possibility of taking a life.

1:00:00 – Retirement and Reflection
How stress and family sacrifice led to Mitch’s decision to retire — and what life after the RCMP looks like.

1:10:00 – The Blueberry Farm and Family Legacy
Mitch talks about running a blueberry farm with his son, and how their grandkids now help run the business.

1:16:00 – Writing the “Rusty” Children’s Stories
The heartwarming story behind Mitch’s children’s books inspired by a mischievous pony named Rusty, now illustrated by his daughter and grandchildren.

1:23:00 – Finding Peace After the Badge
Closing thoughts on legacy, service, and rediscovering purpose through family, storytelling, and community.

🕒 Chapters