Truth Be Told
Conversations that debunk myths, explore case studies and identify the keys to effective communication with a Certified Forensic Interviewer and special guests. Need to talk to an employee about a disciplinary issue? A family member or significant other about an uncomfortable topic? Attempting to uncover the truth of ”what really happened” through effective questioning and active listening? With unique perspectives from interrogators, exonerees, academics and professionals across multiple disciplines, learn how strategic communication can work to your advantage. Powered by Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates (WZ) and the International Association of Interviewers (IAI), ”Truth Be Told” brings to you some of the leading voices in the space of communication, investigations and interpersonal behaviors.
Unlocking the Secrets of Strategic Communication
From investigators to psychologists to media personalities and everyone in between, learn about the power that words can have. Listen to guests from every walk of life who have mastered the art of strategic communication.
Recent Episodes
309
June 11, 2026
Beyond Borders: The Universal Language of Trust with Chris Norris, CFI
What happens when you spend more than two decades helping organizations communicate, investigate, and build trust across the globe? In this episode of Truth Be Told , Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with WZ Vice President of International, Chris Norris, CFI to explore what he's learned from working in more than 45 countries and traveling to over 80. From living in the UK to teaching investigators in Afghanistan, Korea, Brazil, and beyond, Chris shares the cultural lessons, communication mistakes, a
308
May 27, 2026
When Innocence Isn’t Enough: The Reality of Wrongful Convictions with Claudia Salinas
This episode of Truth Be Told dives into the intersection of wrongful convictions, communication, strategy, and even poker. In this powerful conversation, Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with innocence attorney and poker player Claudia Salinas to explore how psychology, trust, bias, and human behavior shape both the courtroom and the interrogation room. From uncovering wrongful convictions to reading people at the poker table, Claudia shares how communication, emotional control, and strategic think
307
May 13, 2026
What If the Strongest Thing You Can Do Is Talk About It? From Combat to Coming Home with Pasha Palanker
What if the strongest thing you can do… is talk about it? In this powerful episode of Truth Be Told , Pasha Palanker shares his extraordinary journey from Soviet immigrant to decorated U.S. Army veteran — and the invisible battle that followed him home. After surviving roadside bombs, earning two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star with Valor, and serving in some of the most dangerous combat environments in Iraq, Pasha opens up about the trauma, anger, PTSD, isolation, and mental health struggles he
306
April 29, 2026
From War Zones to the World’s Most Critical Conversations: What Actually Works with Sean Buckley
DISCLAIMER: This episode explores real-world investigative experiences, including discussions of violence, trauma, and high-risk situations such as war zones, child abuse, and terrorism. Some content may be intense or unsettling for certain listeners. Listener discretion is advised. What happens when the people meant to protect… become the ones you have to investigate? In this episode, Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with Sean Buckley —former New Zealand detective and United Nations investigator—wh
305
April 16, 2026
How Songwriters Communicate What Others Can't Say: Finding Your Voice with Cami Clune
In this episode of the Truth Be Told Podcast, Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with singer-songwriter Cami Clune (as see on NBC's The Voice ) to explore communication, storytelling, and songwriting—and how artists say what others struggle to express. Cami shares her journey through the music industry, from early performances to her breakout moment on The Voice , along with the mindset needed to handle rejection, performance anxiety, and creative pressure. Follow Cami on Instagram ! This episode cove
304
April 1, 2026
Influence Without Authority: The Real Test of Leadership with Khris Hamlin
The loudest voice in the room isn’t always the most effective—but the silent one can cost you everything. In this episode, Khris Hamlin, Vice President of Asset Protection and Retail Technology at the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) breaks down what it really takes to lead when you don’t have direct authority, and why communication—not control—is the defining skill of modern leadership. Check out the upcoming RILA Conference! From his journey as a practitioner to becoming a voice for
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