The Trust Ledger

About the Author

That’s a great question! At my core, I’m a storyteller, I’ve always had this drive to put thoughts and experiences into words, whether it’s through leadership lessons in The Trust Ledger or my upcoming book, Beautifully Broken. Writing has become both my creative outlet and my way of giving back.

But beyond the writing desk, my greatest joy comes from being with my wife and our two amazing kids. We love to travel together, explore new places, and make memories that often sneak their way into my stories. Whether it’s a family trip, cheering at a football game, or just sitting by a firepit under the stars, those moments are where I feel most alive.

I guess you could say I’m someone who’s passionate about people, listening, learning, laughing, and finding inspiration in the everyday. For me, life is about balancing purpose and play: leading with impact, loving my family fiercely, and never losing sight of the fun along the way.

Qn 1: Can you tell us more about your book What is it about?

The Trust Ledger is about reimagining how law enforcement builds and sustains trust with the communities it serves. At its heart, the book introduces a paradigm that treats trust like a bank ledger, every interaction between officers and citizens is either a deposit or a withdrawal. Positive, respectful, transparent actions make deposits. Missteps, misconduct, or even a lack of communication result in withdrawals.

What makes this framework so powerful is that it takes trust from being an abstract idea to something tangible, measurable, and actionable. I walk readers through real strategies that leaders and officers can apply daily to strengthen relationships, repair broken ones, and create a culture where trust is the true currency of policing.

This book isn’t about ignoring the past, it acknowledges the pain and the fractures that exist, but it’s about creating a path forward. A path where accountability and integrity don’t just sound good, they’re practiced consistently. My ultimate goal is that The Trust Ledger becomes a roadmap for reform and healing, not just in law enforcement, but in any field where leadership and trust are vital.

Qn 2: Who do you think would be interested in this book, is it directed at any particular market?

That’s a great question. While The Trust Ledger was born out of my experiences in law enforcement, the truth is its message reaches far beyond policing. Of course, it’s written for officers, supervisors, chiefs, and community leaders who want a practical framework for rebuilding trust and strengthening relationships. But it’s also a resource for educators, business leaders, policy makers, and really anyone in a position where leadership and trust are essential.

Trust isn’t exclusive to law enforcement, it’s the foundation of every meaningful relationship, whether in an organization, a family, or a community. If you’re someone who leads, serves, or aspires to make a difference, this book is for you. My hope is that police departments and community organizations adopt it as a roadmap for reform, but also that readers from all walks of life see themselves in its pages and take away principles they can apply to their own lives.

Qn 3: Out of all the books in the world, and all the authors, which are your favourite and why?

Lee’s Creating Magic has had a profound influence on me both personally and professionally. The way he brought Disney’s customer service culture to life, and showed how it can be applied to leadership in any field, helped shape my own philosophy. It reaffirmed the idea that culture isn’t accidental, it’s created with intention, and when leaders put people first, excellence follows.

Then there’s Joe Slota’s From the Streets to Global Seats. His story is a masterclass in resilience. He proves that no matter what adversity you’re up against, with determination and grit, you can accomplish anything. I especially admire his concept of the “Special Forces of Leadership”, it’s bold, it’s innovative, and it challenges leaders to level up in ways they may never have imagined.

Both of these authors have left a lasting impact on me, not just as a writer, but as a leader. Their books aren’t just inspiring reads, they’re roadmaps to becoming better, more intentional versions of ourselves.

Qn 4: What guidance would you offer to someone new, or trying to enhance their writing?

The biggest piece of guidance I can offer is this: just start writing, and don’t stop. Too many people wait for the “perfect” time, the “perfect” idea, or the “perfect” words, but perfection is the enemy of progress. Writing is like building muscle, the more you do it, the stronger and more natural it becomes.

I’d also say, don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. The most impactful writing comes from honesty, even when it feels uncomfortable. Your unique story, your scars, your perspective, those are the things that will connect with people on a level that polished words alone never could.

Finally, surround yourself with voices that fuel you. Read constantly, listen deeply, and engage with people who think differently than you. Every conversation, every book, every experience is fuel for your creativity. Writing isn’t just about putting words on paper—it’s about capturing life as you see and feel it, and then sharing that in a way that gives others hope, perspective, or inspiration.

So my advice? Write boldly, write consistently, and write with heart. The world doesn’t need another perfect book, it needs your authentic voice.

Qn 5: Where can our readers find out more about you, do you have a website, or a way to be contacted?

I don’t have a personal website just yet, though that’s definitely in the works! In the meantime, I’d love to connect directly. Readers can find me on Instagram and LinkedIn, where I share updates about my books, projects, and the lessons I’m learning along the way. I truly enjoy engaging with people, so please don’t hesitate to reach out, I’d be honored to connect with you there!

Instagram: @Joe_Schaefer_Author

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