Episode 176 - The "Kosher Cop": A Conversation with Steve Riback

<p><strong>ABOUT THIS EPISODE</strong></p> <p>Steve Riback, a.k.a. the “Kosher Cop,” is a lieutenant in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Follow his journey, as his career path evolves from studying to be an educator, to working in a variety of different roles in a 24-year tenure in the police department.</p> <p>While his professional future came into focus, Steve also found the yearning to deepen his Jewish roots.  He and Ari discuss the challenges of bringing the face of Orthodox Judaism to a highly visible role in the community, as a public servant and protector of the peace. It’s a fascinating discussion of how to strike a balance between one’s personal faith and one’s profession in the modern world.</p> <p>--------------------</p> <p><strong>EPISODE TIME STAMPS</strong></p> <p> 2:52  Introduction – Steve’s formative years, growing up in Los Angeles</p> <p> 5:49  Steve’s early desires to study elementary education, then changes course</p> <p> 8:35  Steve explains to his family his desire changing to wanting to go into law enforcement </p> <p>10:45 The reasons that drew Steve into wanting to pursue a career as a cop, and the process</p> <p>13:54 Were there moments when he wondered, “What did I get myself into?”</p> <p>17:24 A discussion of how the culture of policing has changed since Steve began his career</p> <p>22:32 Steve talks about some of the various roles he’s had during his career in the department</p> <p>24:22 Working in internal affairs, and the challenges of “policing the police”</p> <p>28:35 Las Vegas, and how the city itself presents unique challenges for policing</p> <p>32:24 A turning point when Steve realizes that his Jewish heritage demands more exploration</p> <p>36:11 The realization that working as an undercover officer while practicing Orthodox Judaism will present some unique challenges</p> <p>38:29 The difficulties of balancing a demanding job with his religious tenets; filing a federal lawsuit</p> <p>44:24 Resources for connecting with Steve Riback</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>C