Two Ordinary Cops
The two ordinary cops are former Northern Territory Police Officers Remote Sergeant Ben Schultz and Detective Sergeant Damien Barbe. With over 25 years experience Ben and Damo share stories from their time in the job. Follow along through the laughter, anger and tears that come with the rigours of Policing Australia’s last frontier.
Episodes
Friday Jan 17, 2025
Episode 53 - Assault Police Insights
Friday Jan 17, 2025
Friday Jan 17, 2025
In this episode, Schultzy and Damo kick off with shout-outs and current events before discussing a facility created to support Emergency Services personnel with PTSD. They then dive into the main topic, "Assault Police," exploring the levels of force that can be lawfully used, including how it depends on factors like size disparity. They also share personal stories of when they or their mates were assaulted on duty. A mix of real-world insights, heartfelt shout-outs, and candid conversation awaits.
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Episode 52 - Police Negotiators
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Friday Jan 10, 2025
In this episode of Two Ordinary Cops, the hosts take listeners into the fascinating and high-stakes world of police negotiations. Damo shares insights into the specialised training police receive for these critical situations, highlighting key strategies and techniques used to de-escalate conflicts and reach resolutions. Drawing from his own experiences on the job, Damo recounts gripping real-life incidents where these negotiation skills were put to the test, offering a compelling look at the challenges and rewards of this vital aspect of policing.
Friday Jan 03, 2025
Episode 51 - Interview with Sergeant Adam Swift
Friday Jan 03, 2025
Friday Jan 03, 2025
In this episode, the Two Ordinary Cops chat with Sergeant Adam Swift, who serves as both an instructor at the police college and the Vice President of the Northern Territory Police Association. Adam shares his journey into policing, some humorous anecdotes, and his experiences during his career in the force.
Friday Jan 03, 2025
Episode 50 - Answering the Call to Police Service
Friday Jan 03, 2025
Friday Jan 03, 2025
In this episode, the Two Ordinary Cops share their journey into the Northern Territory Police Force, discussing what motivated them to join and the experiences that shaped their decision. They reflect on their stories, from childhood through to their time in the force, explaining why they eventually left. They also explore the valuable skills they gained during their careers and how these skills can be applied to life after policing.
Friday Dec 27, 2024
Episode 49 - Interview with Commander Kylie Anderson
Friday Dec 27, 2024
Friday Dec 27, 2024
In this episode, the Two Ordinary Cops had the pleasure of interviewing Kylie Anderson, whose remarkable career and experiences as a woman in the police force make her an inspiration for young women considering or starting a career in law enforcement. Kylie shares valuable insights, not only about her journey as a female officer but also about the challenges she faced while rising through the ranks.
Friday Dec 27, 2024
Episode 48 - Q&A: Tough Topics
Friday Dec 27, 2024
Friday Dec 27, 2024
Damo and Schultzy present their second Q&A episode for the Two Ordinary Cops podcast, beginning on a sombre note as they share the sad news of a friend’s passing over Christmas. They then offer their perspectives on addressing youth crime, followed by a discussion about poor behaviour from transport or traffic officers. The conversation shifts to analysing a scenario involving a domestic situation. Finally, they introduce the second episode of the week, featuring their interview with Kylie Anderson.
Friday Dec 20, 2024
Episode 47 - Interview with Nathan Finn NT Police Association
Friday Dec 20, 2024
Friday Dec 20, 2024
In this episode, the Two Ordinary Cops sit down with Nathan Finn, the president of the Northern Territory Police Association, for an engaging and insightful chat. Nathan shares the story of his remarkable career, from his early days on the beat to his rise as a passionate advocate for his fellow officers. Along the way, he recounts some nail-biting encounters, moments of humour, and the challenges of speaking out on controversial issues. Known for always standing up for the troops, Nathan offers a unique perspective that’s equal parts compelling and inspiring.
Friday Dec 20, 2024
Episode 46 - A Northern Territory Journey and the Ben Hoffmann Standoff
Friday Dec 20, 2024
Friday Dec 20, 2024
In this episode, we wrap up our Northern Territory trip and share some of your messages and feedback. Damo also opens up about his role in the 2019 Darwin active shooter incident involving Ben Hoffmann. He shares gripping behind-the-scenes details of the response, offering a rare glimpse into the intensity and challenges of that day. It’s a mix of reflection, gratitude, and raw insight you won’t want to miss.
Friday Dec 13, 2024
Episode 45 - Back in the Territory!
Friday Dec 13, 2024
Friday Dec 13, 2024
The two ordinary cops are back where it all began travelling to Darwin and Katherine to catch up with old friends and have a laugh. Standby to some great conversations with the men and women who do the job.
Friday Dec 06, 2024
Episode 44 - "Crossing the Line: Policing NT's Borders and Beyond"
Friday Dec 06, 2024
Friday Dec 06, 2024
In this episode of Crossing the Line, we delve into the unique challenges of policing across state and territory boundaries from the perspective of the Northern Territory Police. From tracking offenders fleeing interstate to executing extradition warrants, this episode uncovers the critical coordination required between jurisdictions to ensure justice is served. With stories of persistence, collaboration, and determination, we’ll show why offenders truly have nowhere to hide when the NT Police are on their trail.

Two Ordinary Cops
Ben Schultz and Damien Barbe joined the Northern Territory Police on the 26th of February 2007 and quickly became best mates. They progressed through the college together, graduated later that year and both moved to Katherine to start their policing career. Throughout their time in the police they both worked in many different fields including general duties, investigations, bush policing, running of stations and troops as well as prosecutions.
Their friendship and ability to communicate with people gave them not just their own knowledge, but what other police and the community experienced when it came to policing. Join them now as they not only pass on their experience, but that of many other police officers who have worn the uniform to protect and serve.