The PIO Podcast
The PIO Podcast is a leading resource for Public Information Officers (PIOs) and Public Affairs Officers (PAOs) working in law enforcement, fire service, EMS, emergency management, and government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels. Focused on crisis communications, media relations, and public trust, this podcast delivers expert insights, real-world strategies, and interviews with experienced communicators across the public sector.
Each episode explores the challenges PIOs face, including managing breaking incidents, navigating social media, combating misinformation, and communicating effectively during emergencies and high-pressure situations. Whether you are a new PIO or a seasoned public affairs professional, The PIO Podcast provides actionable guidance to strengthen your communication skills and leadership impact.
Join a growing network of public safety communicators committed to learning, professional development, and advancing the role of strategic communications in government.
To support the podcast or connect with the community, email: thepiopodcast@gmail.com
The PIO Podcast
PIO Lauren Reimer, PIO & Sam Salzwedel, Videographer/PIO
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
Lauren Reimer has been the Public Information Officer for the Pinal County Sheriff's Office since Nov 2019. Pinal County is located between Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona.
Prior to her time as PIO, Lauren spent seven years as a news reporter in various cities, lastly Phoenix, Arizona.
Sam Salzwedel has been the primary video creator and backup PIO for the Pinal County Sheriff's Office in Arizona since 2019. He has a journalism degree from the Walter Cronkite School at Arizona State University. Before joining PCSO, he spent 12 years as a photojournalist and reporter in the television news industry in Tucson, Arizona.
-----
During their time with PCSO, they have worked to grow the agency's presence on social media and gained nearly 2M cumulative followers. PCSO is now the 2nd most-followed law enforcement agency in the country on Facebook, only behind the FBI.
PCSOPIO@Pinal.gov
Our premiere sponsor, Social News Desk, has an exclusive offer for PIO Podcast listeners. Head over to socialnewsdesk.com/pio to get three months free when a qualifying agency signs up.
