Built to Last: Accreditation Leadership with Areaka Jewell

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:01:43 – Welcome and guest intro02:30 – Areaka shares how she fell into accreditation and turned it into a calling04:29 – The value of strong policies and sustainable systems05:28 – Gaining buy-in from command staff despite rank differences06:38 – Common challenges faced by accreditation managers08:08 – Moving beyond checkbox compliance09:54 – Getting support from leadership11:45 – Keeping policies current and realistic15:19 – What a high-functioning accredited agency feels like on-site17:54 – Real-world red flags from assessments20:34 – The importance of professional certifications in accreditation21:56 – Making accreditation a formal leadership track23:34 – The future of accreditation in public safety25:15 – Advice for new accreditation professionals27:11 – Resources to build confidence and community29:30 – 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 peopleFree Download: Accreditation Manager Starter Kit🔗 Connect with Areaka🌐Website🙋‍♀️Digital Business Card💼 LinkedIn📘 Facebook📸 Instagram🔗 Connect with Kevin💼 LinkedIn🌐National Association for Accreditation Leadership (NAAL)🎧Beyond the Checklist podcastConnect with Areaka🙋‍♀️ Digital Business Card🌐 Website💼 LinkedIn📘 Facebook📸 Instagram🎧 Want to Be a Guest on the Show?Know someone doing great things in the accreditation world—or want to share your own insights? We’re always looking for experienced Accreditation Managers, assessors, and change-makers to join us on the podcast. Sign up to be a guest or share with a colleague