Inside Modern Policing: Patrol Commander on Police Reform from Within

Beyond the Walled Garden Podcast

This episode of Beyond the Walled Garden features Diego Zanella, a Patrol Commander in Washington state with over 20 years of policing experience. Diego discusses his mission to reform law enforcement from within by moving away from traditional paramilitary structures toward community-focused service.

Learn how modern police departments are integrating social workers, improving mental health response, and reimagining what effective policing looks like.

👮‍♂️ About Today's Guest:

Originally from Florence, Italy, Diego Zanella moved to the United States 25 years ago. Over the past 20 years, he has built a diverse career in law enforcement, serving as a patrol officer, school resource officer, detective, special operations officer, supervisor and mentor. Currently, he holds the position of patrol commander at a police department in Washington State.

👮‍♂️ Connect with Diego:

- Check out Diego's Podcast Lo Scudo Blu (The Blue Shield): https://loscudoblu.libsyn.com

- Chat with Diego: [email protected]

🎭 Joel Austin is an actor, writer, filmmaker, and podcaster living in Los Angeles, CA. He teaches at UCLA Ext. and produces Beyond the Walled Garden with Joel Austin. He releases multiple videos and shorts every week. Find more about him below. 🎭

⭐ More about Joel Austin:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joel_austin?sub_confirmation=1
• Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/joelaustin.bsky.social
• IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1792430/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_joel%2520austin
• Site: https://joel-austin.com

⭐ More about Beyond the Walled Garden:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkghuyUIQo2L5-X-gsEDwoVKDYuCYruc4
• Podcast Platforms: https://beyond-walled-garden.podbean.com/

#PolicingReform #CommunityPolicing #LawEnforcementReform