Two veterans of Chicago’s political and law enforcement scenes — Gene Roy and James A. Balcer — come together to discuss issues affecting the lives of everyday Chicagoans. They share their personal experiences and lessons learned, as well as regularly talk to noteworthy guests.   

About the Hosts

Gene Roy is a lifelong resident of Chicago and 30-plus-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department who worked his way up the ranks from police officer to chief of detectives. He graduated from Dominican University with a degree in Organizational Leadership, completed the Senior Management Institute for Police, and served as a trustee of the Chicago Police Pension Fund from 2001 to 2005, representing lieutenants and higher ranks. He also served as president of the CPD Captains Union.

Following his retirement in 2016, Gene has held an executive position in the security industry and remains engaged as a management consultant on public safety issues. He has also been interviewed on local and national TV on cases of public interest.

Gene follows the servant leadership philosophy where the goal is serving others. He supports police-related charities, including the St. Jude League, the CPD Memorial Foundation, and the Brotherhood for the Fallen.

He also serves on the Northern Illinois Critical Incident (NICSM) team, conducting debriefings for First Responders after their involvement in critical incidents, and he has assisted in facilitating a series of wellness retreats addressing PTSD for first responders.

Lifelong Chicago resident James A. Balcer served as 11th Ward alderman from 1997 to 2015. Prior to that he was director of Veteran Affairs for the City of Chicago. A Vietnam veteran, Balcer served in the United States Marine Corps from 1967 to 1970. He and his, Elena, have two children and two grandchildren.