Two Ordinary Cops

Episode 70 – From Connie to Commander: Inside the Police Rank Structure.

In Episode 70 of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy break down the police rank structure from the ground up – starting with the everyday duties of a constable all the way to the strategic decisions made at commissioner level. They reflect on their own journeys, share experiences of leading in remote stations, and dive into what it really takes to earn (or sometimes fail at) promotion. With honest banter, practical insight, and a few laughs, they explore the challenges of leadership, the difference between acting and substantive ranks, and why some officers are better suited to certain roles than others. Whether you're in the job or just curious about how police command works, this episode offers a raw and relatable look inside the structure that holds it all together.

Episode 69 – When the Armour Cracks: An Interview with Queensland Paramedic Peter Vinnicombe

In this powerful episode of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy sit down with Queensland paramedic Peter Vinnicombe to explore the deep and lasting impact of frontline trauma. Peter shares his 17-year journey as a single officer paramedic in rural Queensland, culminating in a violent incident that changed his life and career forever. They discuss PTSD, moral injury, the loss of identity that comes with leaving the job, and the glaring gaps in support for first responders. A raw, honest, and important conversation that shines a light on the emotional cost of serving the community.

Episode 68 - The Rotten Few

In Episode 68 of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy don’t hold back as they call out the worst of the worst—cops who broke the law and were rightly arrested and jailed by their own colleagues. From stealing drugs out of seizures to the unforgivable crime of child abuse, they shine a light on those who tarnish the badge. The episode also dives into the Northern Territory Government’s outrageous initial proposal for the police consent agreement, and the reality of working alongside colleagues they didn’t exactly see eye to eye with.

Episode 67 – The Truth About Cops, Corruption & Integrity

This week, Damo and Schutzy aren’t holding back. They’re diving headfirst into one of the most talked-about—and misunderstood—topics in policing: corruption. Sure, the past has its skeletons, but today’s police are under more scrutiny than ever before. The boys break down the myths, get real about integrity, and share what it’s really like working in one of the most heavily watched professions in the country. Honest, raw, and full of classic Two Ordinary Cops banter—you won’t want to miss this one.

Episode 66 – People in Crisis: Mental Health Intervention

After throwing out a cheeky challenge to our listeners to either send us love or completely roast us, Damo and Schultzy were stoked to get almost 10 messages – with 4 of them giving us a light-hearted ribbing (we can take it!), and the rest showing solid support for the podcast. But more than that, you legends also sent through some cracking suggestions for future topics.
In this episode, we give a few long-overdue shoutouts and work our way through all your messages, before diving deep into one that really hit home. One listener, who’s had her own battles with mental health, shared how much she appreciates the way we talk openly about those challenges in the job. Her story – including how she ended up writing thank-you letters to the police who helped her during some tough times – sparked this week's main topic.
We get real about mental health in policing: the toll it takes, the moments that stick with us, and how we’ve tried to handle it all. It’s honest, raw, and full of those Two Ordinary Cops insights that you’ve come to expect.

Episode 65 - Coppers, College & Changing Times

In this episode, Damo and Schultzy dive into the evolving landscape of Family and Domestic Violence (FDV) procedures and legislation. With years of frontline experience between them, the boys share how things have changed—what’s working, what’s not, and why Schultzy reckons “You can’t fast track DV.”
Schultzy also gives a few well-earned shoutouts before the pair reflect on their time in the academy. From study hacks to survival tips, they revisit the moments that shaped them as rookie cops. They wrap up with an honest chat about juggling shift work, family life, and remembering the lessons that still guide them today.
Whether you’re a cop, a recruit, or just curious about the real stories behind the badge, this one’s full of insight, laughs, and a good dose of lived experience.

Episode 64 - Remote, Resilient, and Married to a Cop

In this episode of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy sit down with Damo’s wife, Emer, to explore what it’s like being married to a cop—especially in remote communities. Rather than focusing on the job itself, they dive into everyday life in these towns, discussing the unique challenges and experiences of police families.
What’s it like for partners, wives, and kids living in these isolated places? How do they cope with the pressures and lifestyle that come with being part of a policing family? This episode gives a voice to those on the other side of the badge, highlighting the often-overlooked sacrifices and perspectives of the loved ones who support frontline workers.
If you’ve ever wondered about the personal side of policing in remote Australia, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Episode 63 - Police, Prosecutors & the Courts: Who Decides?

In this episode of Two Ordinary Cops, Schultzy and Damo dive into the complex relationship between police and the courts, unpacking the differences between police bail and court bail. They share real-life stories from the frontline, including what it’s like to be a police prosecutor and the challenges of keeping offenders in custody. With plenty of laughs along the way, they also revisit last week’s discussion on police recruiting standards, responding to some of the feedback they received. It’s an eye-opening chat about law enforcement, the judiciary, and the realities of policing.

Episode 62 - Unfit for Duty? The Recruitment Debate

In Episode 62 of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy dive into a critical issue raised by a recruit— the alarming drop in police recruitment standards. As passionate advocates for frontline services and community safety, they discuss how this decline threatens the integrity of policing, endangers officers, and puts the public at risk. With firsthand experience and blunt honesty, they explore why these lowered standards cannot continue and the disastrous consequences that could follow if they do.

Episode 61 - Cyclone Alfred

In Episode 61 of the Two Ordinary Cops podcast, Cyclone Alfred, Schultzy and Damo recount their experiences during the landfall of Cyclone Alfred, sharing what unfolded in their respective areas. They discuss the challenges they faced, including some humorous moments, and highlight the dangers of driving through flooded waters. The duo also reflect on their own experiences navigating flooded rivers after conducting risk assessments. To wrap up, they give a couple of well-deserved shout-outs.