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.
Exploring Truth Through Insightful Conversations
Unlocking the Secrets of Strategic Communication
Truth Be Told invites listeners to engage in enlightening conversations about the art of effective communication. With insights from experts in forensic interviewing, psychology, and social sciences, the podcast reveals strategies to uncover the truth and navigate complex discussions—whether personal or professional.
Recent Episodes
312
July 29, 2026
It’s not about the Dishes. The Psychology of Healthy Communication with Kristina Virro
Can better communication save your relationship, strengthen your leadership, and improve your toughest conversations? In this episode of Truth Be Told, Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with licensed therapist Kristina Virro to explore the psychology behind effective communication, healthy relationships, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution. Whether you're navigating a marriage, leading a team, conducting investigative interviews, or simply trying to become a better communicator, this c
311
July 15, 2026
Could One Conversation Save a Life? Beyond the Arrest with Keeley Knowles and Stuart Toogood
What if the most effective way to prevent crime isn't another arrest—but another conversation? For nearly 30 years, Keeley Knowles lived with a severe heroin addiction, funding it as one of the United Kingdom's most prolific shoplifters. Stuart Toogood spent those same three decades serving as a police officer with West Midlands Police. By every measure, they should have remained on opposite sides of the law. Instead, they formed a partnership that helped save a life. In this powerful e
310
July 1, 2026
The Danger of Thinking You're Right: Why Curiosity Beats Certainty with Brad Beeler
How do experienced investigators end up on the wrong path—even when they're trying to do the right thing? In this episode of Truth Be Told, Dave Thompson, CFI sits down once again with retired U.S. Secret Service agent and author Brad Beeler for a conversation that challenges some of the biggest assumptions in investigations. We explore how gut instinct can become confirmation bias, why false confessions happen more often than many people realize, and how investigators can avoid unintentional
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,
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 th
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 struggl
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About the Host
Dave Thompson