This week, Beans goes solo and lands a massive, fascinating interview for Tall Boy Radio, sitting down with a genuine law enforcement legend: retired Miami-Dade Sergeant, Bert Gonzalez, better known by his callsign, Sgt. Maverick! 🎙️
Sgt. Maverick takes us deep inside the reality of policing in one of America's most dynamic and volatile cities. He kicks off the episode by sharing incredible, unfiltered stories from his decades of service, offering a stark comparison between his time on the force and what it’s like to wear the badge today. From changes in technology and training to shifts in public perception and department policy, Bert provides an insider’s perspective on how policing has evolved since he first hit the streets.
Get ready for adrenaline-pumping tales as Sgt. Maverick recounts some of the most intense and terrifying experiences of his career, including gripping details about high-speed chases through the Miami streets. He doesn't shy away from the darker side, though. In a raw and honest discussion, he opens up about the immense toll being in the force takes on officers and their families. Bert shares how the constant exposure to trauma, danger, and relentless stress impacts personal relationships and mental well-being long after the shift ends.
A crucial part of this powerful conversation focuses on the mental health aspect of police work. Sgt. Maverick discusses the personal coping methods he developed to handle the pressure, the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement, and the importance of supporting officers dealing with PTSD and burnout. He gives an honest assessment of the resources available then compared to now, and what needs to change to better protect the people who protect us.
No conversation about vintage Miami-Dade policing would be complete without talking about the notorious figures who defined an era. Sgt. Maverick dedicates a part of the interview to sharing his experiences and encounters during the height of the Cocaine Cowboys era—a time of unparalleled drug trafficking and violence that shaped the city’s identity and challenged law enforcement to its limits. Hear firsthand accounts of the sheer scale of the operation and the danger officers faced daily.
This is an essential, eye-opening episode that goes beyond the TV drama, offering respect, insight, and a profound look at the life and legacy of a dedicated police officer. Tune in for this powerful chat with the one and only Sgt. Maverick! đźš”
Buy Sgt. Maverick's book here
The Real Greatest Show on Earth eBook : Gonzalez, Bert: Amazon.co.uk: Books
Watch SGT Maverick the podcast here
Head to SGT Maverick's website
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