Episodes

In this episode of Truth Be Told, host Dave Thompson, CF I 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 this ...

This Truth Be Told episode is a powerful exploration of wrongful convictions, highlighting the harrowing journey of those who have been unjustly imprisoned. Through the lens of Jeff Deskovic's story, the conversation delves into the systemic failures of the justice system and the resilience required to overcome such profound adversity. Jeff shares his personal journey of falsely confessing, being wrongfully convicted and later exonerated. He then expands on his inspirational journey into crimin...

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 ...

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 h...

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 AI. T...

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 on ...

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 falling...

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 delve i...

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, highligh...

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...

In this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast, host Dave Thompson, CFI interviews retired FBI agent Jerri Williams , who shares her extensive experience in law enforcement, particularly in communication and media relations. They discuss the importance of debunking myths about the FBI, the evolution of financial crimes, and the critical role of effective communication in interviews and crisis situations. Jerri also reflects on her transition to media relations and the challenges of maintaining pub...

Stop scrolling. This is an emergency. Also, it's a hook. A way to grab your listeners attention to increase engagement. How can lessons from social media impact our everyday communication? In this engaging conversation, Dave Thompson is joined by Dawn Faithfull and Matthew day – communication experts who excel in social media outreach and engagement. They explore various aspects of communication and content creation, discussing the importance of authenticity, overcoming imposter syndrome, and...

Are you afraid to "ask the question"? How does communication help extend your network, enhance your credibility and strengthen your relationships? In this conversation, Dave Thompson and Heather DeSiena explore the significance of communication in various professional contexts. Heather emphasizes the importance of choosing words carefully, the value of emotional intelligence, and the necessity of asking the right questions. They discuss how effective communication can lead to career transitions,...

Leading scholars in the fields of criminology and psychology have published the latest scientific review paper titled Police-Induced Confessions 2.0; Risk Factors and Recommendations . We were lucky to be joined by two of the authors on this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast. Host Dave Thompson is joined by two guests, Dr. Hayley Clear y, and Dr. Chris Meissner as they delve into the complexities of interview techniques, false confessions, and the importance of collaboration between academic...

In this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast, host Dave Thompson interviews David Johnston , Vice President of Asset Protection and Retail Operations at the National Retail Federation . They discuss David's extensive career in loss prevention, the evolution of communication in the industry, and the challenges faced in franchise environments. David shares insights on the importance of building relationships, managing egos, and the transition from a practitioner to a business mindset. The conversa...

In this conversation, Dave Thompson and Jia Rizvi explore the intricacies of conversation, the impact of wrongful convictions, and the journey into filmmaking. They discuss the emotional toll of storytelling, the ethics involved in documentary filmmaking, and the importance of understanding the criminal justice system. Jia shares her personal experiences and insights gained from working with wrongfully convicted individuals, emphasizing the need for genuine representation and advocacy in storyte...

In this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast , host Dave Thompson engages with Matt Halloran to explore the critical role of listening in effective communication. They discuss the undervalued skill of listening, the importance of silence, and how engaged listening can transform personal and professional relationships. Matt shares insights from his experiences, including his background in therapy and financial services, emphasizing that listening is not just about hearing words but understanding ...

In this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast, host Dave Thompson speaks with Chad Porter, who shares his inspiring journey from being a star athlete to surviving a life-altering accident. The conversation delves into the power of choice, the impact of Chad's athletic background, the day of the accident, and the aftermath that followed. Chad reflects on the importance of free will, the support of his family, and how he turned a traumatic experience into a message of hope and resilience for others...

In this conversation, Dr. Elizabeth Loftus, a pioneer in memory research, discusses the complexities of memory accuracy, particularly in the context of eyewitness testimony and its implications for wrongful convictions. The conversation explores how various factors, including questioning techniques and social influences, can distort memories, leading to significant consequences in legal settings. Loftus shares insights from her foundational research on eyewitness memory, emphasizing the importan...

In this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast, host Dave Thompson engages in a deep conversation with James Harris, a former police officer turned senior lecturer. They explore James's transition from law enforcement to academia, the intricacies of investigative interviewing , the importance of empathy in communication, and the challenges of navigating diversity in policing. James shares insights from his extensive experience in the field, emphasizing the need for understanding and rapport in int...