#ILEETALive with Brian Hill, Todd Fletcher, and Joe Willis

Episode Title: #ILEETALive – Countdown to ILEETA 2025

Hosts: Brian Hill, Todd Fletcher, Joe Willis

Recorded On: January 13, 2025

Episode Overview

In this special episode of #ILEETALive, hosts Brian Hill, Todd Fletcher, and Joe Willis kick off the new year with a roundtable discussion, taking live questions from viewers and reflecting on key updates for the upcoming ILEETA 2025 Conference & Expo. With the conference just 67 days away, this episode covers important registration deadlines, new initiatives, and ways for members to get involved.

The discussion also marks a transition, as Todd Fletcher bids farewell as a regular host, making this episode a memorable send-off for a well-respected voice in the ILEETA community.

Key Topics Discussed

Countdown to ILEETA 2025

Conference Excitement: Only 67 days remain until the conference kicks off in St. Louis!
Live Fire and Certification Course Registration: Opens February 1 at 08:00 Eastern Time—classes fill up fast, so members are encouraged to plan ahead.
How to Find Course Listings: Available under the “Plan Your Conference” tab at ILEETA.org.

Changes & Enhancements for ILEETA 2025

Website Facelift: A refreshed design is in the works to improve user experience and navigation.
New Video Crew: ILEETA is bringing in a professional media team to capture the essence of the event through highlight reels, interviews, and more.
New Opportunities for Engagement: Increased emphasis on member involvement, networking, and first-time attendees feeling at home.

Reflections on Leadership & Community Growth

One Year Into the New Leadership Team: Joe Willis reflects on what’s changed (and what hasn’t).
Engagement & Fresh Perspectives: More members are stepping up with new ideas and initiatives—leading to a culture of innovation and collaboration.

Volunteering & Getting Involved at ILEETA

How to Volunteer: Reach out to Jen Merlin to help with event logistics, registration, or behind-the-scenes conference support.
Beyond Formal Roles: Members are encouraged to step up informally—whether it’s welcoming new attendees, engaging in discussions, or sharing expertise.

Spotlight on Emerson Hour 2025

New Sponsor: Warrior’s Heart is now supporting Emerson Hour, reinforcing ILEETA’s commitment to first responder mental health.
Six Mystery Speakers: Each will share their answer to Ralph Waldo Emerson’s question: “What has become clear to you since we last met?”
Encouragement for First-Timers: Many conference attendees haven’t yet experienced Emerson Hour—this is the year to change that!

Trainer of the Year Award – Nominations Open Until February 1

Know an outstanding trainer? Nominations are open to all law enforcement trainers (membership in ILEETA is not required).
Winner Receives: Free ILEETA membership, a prestigious award, and recognition among their peers.

The Tuesday Night Social & Networking at ILEETA

Cornhole Tournament Returns: Hosted by MILO and Command Presence, this event fosters friendly competition and networking.
New Addition – Author’s Event: Giving ILEETA authors a dedicated space to share their work and connect with members.

Guidebook App & Conference Planning

Caliber Press Guidebook App: A key tool for scheduling sessions, networking, and navigating the event—launching February 1.
Advice for First-Time Attendees: Start planning now to maximize learning and networking opportunities.

What Are the Hosts Most Excited About This Year?

Joe Willis: Meeting new members, connecting them with seasoned attendees, and seeing how the Tuesday night event evolves.
Todd Fletcher: Attending classes outside his comfort zone, especially in tech and instructional design.
Brian Hill: Seeking out new instructors, making meaningful connections, and attending fresh training sessions.

Panel Discussions at ILEETA 2025

Firearms Training Panel (Todd Fletcher): A discussion with top-tier firearms instructors about the future of law enforcement firearms training.
Use of Force Panel (John Bostain): An expanded discussion building on Massad Ayoob’s legacy in the field.
Future of Training Panel (Robert Cole): Examining where law enforcement training is headed in the coming years.

Resources & Links

ILEETA Conference & Course Listings: ILEETA.org
Trainer of the Year Nomination Form: Available under the Annual Conference tab.
Emerson Hour Videos & Archives: Accessible via the ILEETA website under “Resources”.
ILEETA Journal:
- Next edition releases late January 2025.
- Conference instructors should submit their 1,000-word articles by February 10, 2025.

Connect with ILEETA

🔗 Website: ILEETA.org
📱 Facebook: facebook.com/ILEETA
📱 Twitter/X: twitter.com/ILEETA
📱 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ILEETA
📢 Join the Conversation: Use the hashtag #ILEETALive to engage with the community!

Final Thoughts

This episode was packed with valuable updates, conference tips, and reflections on ILEETA’s ongoing evolution. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a longtime member, 2025 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for the conference.

We’ll see you in 67 days in St. Louis! 🎯