Scott Payne spent 28 years in law enforcement, much of it undercover with the FBI. His decision to write Code Name: Pale Horse came after encouragement from friends and a Rolling Stone article about his career. The process brought unexpected connections with readers and forced him to reflect on personal and professional challenges, including maintaining a double life and the impact on his family.
Payne discusses lessons from his upbringing in his family’s landscaping business, the importance of work ethic, and insights into law enforcement culture, including mental health struggles and the concept of warrior mentality. Payne describes the transition to speaking and teaching after retiring, sharing lessons to help others avoid past mistakes.