Communication Episodes

Most communication problems aren't really about what happened. They're about what happens next. In this episode of Truth Be Told, Dave Thompson sits down with communication expert Alex Perry to explore why even well-intentioned people misunderstand each other — and what we can do differently. From difficult conversations and feedback to active listening, empathy, body language and leadership presence, Alex challenges some of the assumptions we've been taught about what “good communicati...

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...

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...

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,...

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...

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 investigat...

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 episod...

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 f...

What happens when the psychology of communication meets one of reality TV’s most fascinating relationship experiments? In this episode of the podcast, Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with Ashley Carpenter and her father, Paul Carpenter, for a candid conversation about truth, trust, and what we can really learn from the experience of Love Is Blind. Ashley takes us behind the scenes of the pods—where connections are built without ever seeing the other person—and shares what it’s like to navigat...

Most people are communicating all wrong—especially when stakes are high. Erika Ettin, a leading dating coach and communication expert, reveals the surprising truths about how subtle words, small gestures, and online signals can make or break trust, chemistry, and connection—even beyond dating. If you've ever felt misunderstood, frustrated, or unsure how to truly connect, this episode will transform your approach to human interaction. Follow Erika on Instagram! Erika shares her research-based i...

In this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast, host Dave Thompson, CFI interviews Barry Black, a former FBI agent with a diverse career spanning accounting, bomb disposal, and sniper roles. They discuss Barry's journey into the FBI, the importance of communication in investigations, the motivations behind financial crimes, and the challenges of interagency cooperation. Barry shares insights from his experiences during major incidents like Waco and the Oklahoma City bombing, emphasizing the need f...

In this episode of Truth Be Told, host Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with Scott Tillema — former SWAT hostage negotiator, FBI-trained crisis negotiator and practitioner with over two decades of experience — as he reveals how high-stakes communication tactics from crisis negotiation can transform leadership, decision-making, and everyday conversations. Scott breaks down his proven “Four Pillars of Negotiation” — Understanding, Timing, Delivery, and Respect — and shows how mastering these can help ...

In this episode, Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with Michael Reddington, CFI to break down five of the biggest misconceptions about communication — in the interrogation room, the boardroom, and everywhere in between. From the myths of “control,” “rapport,” and “active listening” to the flawed belief that people owe us the truth, Dave and Mike unpack how these assumptions quietly sabotage influence. Together, they reveal the real skills that build trust, uncover information, and create better outco...

What if your next training didn’t just check a box - but actually changed behavior? In this episode, Dr. Carrie Graham joins us to unpack how better learning design can turn information into transformation - whether you’re leading a classroom, a corporate team, or a law enforcement agency. Dive into the world of transformative training with Dr. Carrie Graham, where the focus shifts from the facilitator to the learner, ensuring that every educational experience is impactful and lasting. In ...

In this episode of Truth Be Told, host Dave Thompson engages with Carlamay Sheremata, a former school resource officer and author, to explore the intricate connections between leadership, communication, and personal experiences. They discuss the CALM method, which emphasizes Connection, Awareness, Language, and Measured Response as essential tools for effective leadership and parenting. Carla shares her insights on the importance of building trust, active listening, and the impact of home life o...

In this episode of Truth Be Told, Dave Thompson sits down with Dr. Brandon May, a cognitive psychologist and forensic researcher, to explore the intersection of investigative interviewing, memory, and artificial intelligence. From alcohol’s surprising effects on memory recall to the risks of AI contaminating witness testimony, Dr. May brings research and real-world insights that every investigator, practitioner, and curious listener should hear. Together, they discuss the promise—and the perils—...

Dive into the gripping world of financial deception as we unravel a nationwide scam orchestrated from within the walls of Georgia's prisons. Join detectives Carlos Verdoni and Andrew Rowe as they expose the intricate web of deceit involving drones, cryptocurrency, and a network of unsuspecting victims. Discover how sharp communication and relentless investigation brought this $80 million scheme to light. The discussion highlights the importance of communication and collaboration in unraveling th...

In this episode of Truth Be Told, host Dave Thompson, CFI sits down with Patrick Everson, one of the most trusted voices in sports betting journalism. Patrick reveals how relationship building and trust have been the foundation of his career, allowing him to cultivate reliable sources and break credible stories in a high-stakes industry. They explore how effective communication not only builds those behind-the-scenes connections but also shapes how information is shared with the public - and how...

Is AI replacing you? Can you be more efficient without being extinct? Join Dave Thompson, CFI and Tom Meehan, CFI as they delve into the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. Discover how AI is reshaping careers, the potential risks of bias and automation, and the importance of embracing technology to enhance efficiency. From AI's role in the legal system to its impact on sports and investigations, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the opportunities and challenges of...

What does science have to do with homicide interrogations? Everything. In this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast, Detective Shaun Sylvester, PhD discusses his unique journey from law enforcement to academia, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based interviewing techniques. He shares insights on the significance of rapport and empathy in interrogations, the challenges of preparing for interviews, and the need for continuous improvement through peer review. The conversation also touches ...

How can you tell if somebody is conning you? Ever meet someone who isn't exactly who they claim to be? In this episode, Johnathan Walton shares his personal experience with con artists, detailing the emotional manipulation tactics they use and the red flags to watch for. He discusses the importance of reporting these crimes, the role of investigators, and how technology plays a significant part in modern scams. Walton emphasizes the need for awareness and education to prevent others from f...

Ever feel like you're running on ambition fumes? In this episode, Dave Thompson and Kasey Franco unpack the sneaky ways burnout shows up—especially for high-achievers who "power through" everything. From tech overload to boundary blunders, they explore how to spot burnout, stop it in its tracks, and actually recover. Tune in for practical tips, a few hard truths, and maybe even permission to take a damn break. Learn more about Kasey here! In this episode, Dave Thompson and Kasey Franco del...

In this conversation, Dave Thompson, CFI and Natalie Gordon, Ph.D., explore the evolving landscape of jury consulting, particularly in the area of social science and the implications on the legal system. They discuss the role of jury consultants in understanding juror psychology, the myths surrounding jury duty, and the importance of effective storytelling in court. The conversation also delves into the emotional experiences of jurors and the insights gained from post-trial interviews, highlight...

In this episode, Dave Thompson and Mark Anderson discuss the evolution of interview and interrogation techniques, emphasizing the importance of seeking truth over mere confessions. They explore the pressures faced by investigators, the impact of recording interviews, and the biases that can affect forensic evidence. Mark shares personal experiences that highlight the need for strategic empathy and the importance of continuous learning in the field. In this conversation, Mark Anderson and Dave Th...