#23: Built to Last: Accreditation Leadership with Areaka Jewell
- Author
- Areaka Jewell
- Published
- Tue 22 Jul 2025
- Episode Link
- None
Episode Description:
In this special crossover episode of Accreditation Made Easy, host Areaka Jewell shares her recent appearance on the Beyond the Checklist podcast by the National Association for Accreditation Leadership. From her start in Key West PD to founding the Accreditation Academy, Areaka talks with Kevin Rhea about real-life experiences that shape successful accreditation. Learn how to build sustainable systems, train your team, and create momentum that lasts.
🕐 Timestamps & Topics Covered:
1:43 – Welcome and guest intro
2:30 – Areaka shares how she fell into accreditation and turned it into a calling
4:29 – The value of strong policies and sustainable systems
5:28 – Gaining buy-in from command staff despite rank differences
6:38 – Common challenges faced by accreditation managers
8:08 – Moving beyond checkbox compliance
9:54 – Getting support from leadership
11:45 – Keeping policies current and realistic
15:19 – What a high-functioning accredited agency feels like on-site
17:54 – Real-world red flags from assessments
20:34 – The importance of professional certifications in accreditation
21:56 – Making accreditation a formal leadership track
23:34 – The future of accreditation in public safety
25:15 – Advice for new accreditation professionals
27:11 – Resources to build confidence and community
29:30 – Lightning Round:
- Favorite assessment site?
- Most underrated standard?
- Report writing marathon song?
- Coffee or energy drink?
33:45 – Closing thoughts: It's not about the checklist—it's about the people
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🌐 Website
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