Truth Be Told

From Homicides to Higher Ed: Empathy over Ego with Det. Shaun Sylvester, PhD

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 the impact of community relations in policing and the future of interrogation practices, highlighting the necessity of adapting to new research and methodologies.
 
Truths:
Evidence-based interviewing techniques are crucial for effective communication.
Building rapport and empathy is essential in interrogations.
Understanding the needs of interviewees can lead to better outcomes.
Preparation and planning are vital to avoid information leakage during interviews.
Peer review can help improve investigative techniques and outcomes.
Communication skills are often underdeveloped in law enforcement officers.
Confirmation bias can affect investigations and should be addressed.
Community relations play a significant role in effective policing.

Catch Me If You Can: The Anatomy of a Con Artist with Johnathan Walton

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 victim to similar schemes, while also highlighting the power of collective voice and media in seeking justice
Learn more about Johnathan, his book "Anatomy of a Con Artist" and his latest podcast series, Cocaine Air!
Truths:
Con artists are skilled at emotional manipulation.
Victims often feel embarrassed and reluctant to report scams.
Red flags include TMI (too much information) and excessive kindness.
Investigators should reassure victims about confidentiality.
Con artists often create elaborate backstories.
Technology can be used to fabricate evidence.
Isolation is a common tactic used by con artists.
The 'Beak wetting' technique builds trust through small favors.
Background checks can help identify potential con artists.
Victims can become advocates and help others avoid scams.
 

Achievement Anxiety – Breaking Up with Burnout with Kasey Franco

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 into the complexities of burnout, particularly in high-performing individuals. They discuss the various types of burnout, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of ambition in contributing to burnout. Kasey emphasizes the need for setting boundaries, effective communication, and the impact of technology on mental health. The conversation also highlights practical interventions for recovery, the significance of celebrating small wins, and the importance of leaders in fostering a supportive environment to combat burnout.
Truths:
Burnout is a neurophysiological response to prolonged stress.
There are different types of burnout: cognitive, emotional, physical, and identity burnout.
Self-awareness is crucial in identifying personal burnout symptoms.
High performers are often more vulnerable to burnout due to their ambition.
Setting boundaries and managing expectations can help prevent burnout.
Effective communication within teams can alleviate stress and burnout.
Technology can both help and hinder our mental health.
Celebrating small wins can boost morale and combat burnout.
Micro interventions, like breathwork, can be effective in managing stress.
Burnout is not a failure; it's a signal from your body that you need to recharge.

Trial and Error: Inside the Minds Behind the Verdict with Natalie Gordon, PhD

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, highlighting the growing significance of jury consulting in legal strategy. In this conversation, Dave Thompson and Natalie Gordon, Ph.D., explore the intricate dynamics of juror behavior, trial strategies, and the importance of effective communication in legal settings. They discuss how jurors' perceptions can shift during trials, the challenges of memory in lengthy cases, and the role of mock trials and focus groups in preparing for court. The conversation emphasizes the need for attorneys to understand juror psychology and the impact of group dynamics on decision-making, ultimately highlighting the value of research in shaping legal strategies.
Learn more about Elite Training Days!
Truths:
Jury consultants help attorneys understand juror perspectives.
Jurors often care about evidence more than perceived biases.
The media shapes misconceptions about jury duty.
Nonverbal cues are often misinterpreted in court.
Jurors can be influenced by their personal experiences.
Jury consulting is a growing field in legal strategy.
Post-trial interviews provide valuable insights for attorneys.
Jurors appreciate the opportunity to share their experiences.
Building rapport with jurors is crucial for trial success.
Jurors often reflect on their biases during deliberations.
Memory challenges can affect jurors' recall in long trials.
Shadow juries can provide insights into real jury dynamics.
Mock trials help attorneys refine their case strategies.
Effective communication is key in informing jurors.
Group dynamics can significantly influence juror opinions.
Research can reveal unexpected interpretations of evidence.
Preparation and understanding juror psychology enhance trial outcomes.

Forget What You’ve Been Taught: Building Trust Beats Chasing Confessions with Mark Anderson

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 Thompson discuss the intricacies of effective interviewing, emphasizing the importance of behavior, trauma awareness, and the need for active listening. They explore how planning and preparation can enhance interview outcomes and the significance of building credibility and confidence in communication. The discussion highlights the transferable skills applicable across various fields, reinforcing the idea that effective communication is essential in all interactions.
Learn more about Mark here: Mark Anderson - Anderson Investigative
Truths:
Changing the purpose of an interview from confession-seeking to truth-seeking is crucial.
Pressure on investigators often comes from leadership that doesn't understand modern techniques.
Recording interviews can provide valuable insights and reduce bias.
Bias in forensic evidence can be mitigated by limiting information given to forensic experts.
After-action reviews can improve performance across various fields, not just law enforcement.
Strategic empathy is essential in interviews, especially in sensitive cases.
Old habits in interviewing can be difficult to break, but it's necessary for progress.
The importance of a team approach in reviewing investigations is often overlooked.
Continuous learning and adapting to new research is vital for effective interviewing.
Personal experiences can shape how investigators approach sensitive topics in interviews. We need to change where we are here.
Trauma has a huge effect on memory recall.
Planning is indispensable for effective interviews.
Sincerity breeds credibility in communication.
Interviewing is a professional skill set that requires practice.

Truth, Myths & the FBI: Behind the Badge with Jerri Williams

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 public safety while managing information dissemination. The conversation highlights the skills necessary for successful investigations and the nuances of portraying crime in fiction.
In this conversation, Jerri Williams shares her journey from being an FBI agent to becoming a successful author and podcaster. She discusses the challenges of writing fiction, the importance of balancing realism with entertainment, and the misconceptions surrounding the FBI in media. Jerri also highlights her experiences in podcasting, the evolution of her interview style, and her recent work as a consulting producer on a new TV show - Duster. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the significance of effective communication in both personal and professional contexts.
Check out Jerri's podcast: FBI Retired Case File Review
Duster - Newly released Max Original Series
Thank you to Axis Communications for supporting this episode!
Truths:
Myths about the FBI often stem from media portrayals.
Building rapport can turn suspects into informants.
Interviews should be conversations, not interrogations.
Crisis communication requires balancing accuracy and urgency.
Financial crimes evolve with technology and trends.
Public perception is shaped by how information is presented.
The role of a spokesperson is to represent the organization, not personal views.
Misconceptions can lead to prejudicial statements in media.
Fiction writing requires creativity and attention to detail.
Writing can be a painful process, but rewarding.
Realism in fiction is crucial for engaging storytelling.
Consistency in character development is key.
Podcasting can be a powerful platform for authors.
Evolving interview techniques can enhance storytelling.
FBI myths in media can mislead the public.
Collaboration between agencies can lead to successful outcomes.
Female agents are often misrepresented in media.
Developing informants is a critical part of FBI work.
Effective communication is about understanding the listener.

From Cringe to Credibility: Scroll-Stopping Truths with Dawn Faithfull and Matt Day

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 the cultural shifts in how social media is perceived and utilized. They share personal experiences and insights on creating engaging content, the challenges faced in the process, and the evolving landscape of communication in the digital age.
In this conversation, the speakers explore the nuances of personal branding, the importance of effective communication, and the challenges of navigating social media engagement. They discuss the humbling experience of being recognized for their work, the significance of crafting engaging hooks, and the evolving nature of audience engagement. The conversation also touches on the unintended consequences of marketing messages, the impact of negative feedback, and the necessity of authenticity in building connections. Ultimately, they emphasize the power of intentional communication and the importance of adapting to audience needs. 
They discuss strategies for building a personal brand, overcoming the fear of starting, and the significance of engaging with others to enhance visibility and connection in the digital space. The dialogue highlights the evolving landscape of social media and the need for individuals to adapt and thrive within it.
Truths:
Authenticity is key in content creation.
Overcoming imposter syndrome is part of growth.
Engaging with your audience is crucial – don’t post and ghost!
Quality content often requires multiple takes.
Confidence in communication can be built over time.
Understanding your audience is essential for effective communication.
Personal branding can lead to unexpected connections and opportunities.
Crafting effective hooks is essential for capturing audience attention.
The nature of hooks evolves, requiring constant adaptation.
Negative feedback is part of the process; thick skin is necessary.
Authenticity in communication fosters deeper connections.
Engagement metrics are crucial for understanding audience response.
Intentionality in communication can enhance audience interaction.
Understanding your audience is crucial for effective messaging.
Social media is an attention economy where brands compete for visibility.
Starting to create content is a significant hurdle for many.
Consistency and authenticity are key to building a personal brand.
Engagement with others' content is essential for growth.
The algorithm rewards active participation on social media.
Content creation should be fun and not feel like a chore.
Don't be afraid to experiment and learn from your content.
It's important to step outside your echo chamber for broader understanding.

The Art of Speaking Up: Intentional Communication with Heather DeSiena

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, networking opportunities, and successful negotiations. Heather shares her personal experiences and insights on how to improve communication skills and the human element in a technology-driven world.
In this engaging conversation, Heather DeSiena and Dave Thompson discuss the intricacies of salary negotiations, the importance of understanding corporate culture, and the art of public speaking. They explore how individuals can advocate for themselves in the workplace, the significance of human connection in corporate environments, and the challenges and lessons learned in public speaking. The discussion emphasizes the need for effective communication, negotiation skills, and a human-centric approach to leadership and corporate culture.
Follow Heather on LinkedIn for more great tips here!
Learn more about how to bring Heather to your team or for coaching!
Truths:
Words matter in every industry.
Success isn't built on silence.
Communication skills can always be improved.
Asking the right questions opens doors.
Intentionality in communication fosters better relationships.
Human connection is essential in a technology-driven world.
Negotiation starts long before the contract.
Understanding your audience is key to effective communication.
Building rapport is crucial in any interaction.
Possibilities are endless when you ask questions.
Many companies expect candidates to negotiate offers.
Negotiation can include salary, equity, and benefits.
Listening is a crucial part of effective communication.
Corporate culture impacts employee engagement and productivity.
You can be profitable without sacrificing your people.
Quiet quitting is a significant issue in corporate America.
Human connection is essential in remote work environments.
Public speaking requires adaptability and authenticity.
Being human is your competitive edge in business.

The Science of Confessions: Risks, Reforms & the Future of Interrogation with Hayley Cleary, PhD and Christian Meissner, PhD

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 Cleary, and Dr. Chris Meissner as they delve into the complexities of interview techniques, false confessions, and the importance of collaboration between academic research and practical law enforcement. They discuss their personal journeys into the field, the evolution of interrogation methods, and the critical role of humility and communication in effective interviewing. The conversation highlights the weight of confessions in investigations and the need for ongoing research and training to improve practices in the field. This conversation delves into the psychology of interrogation, emphasizing the importance of an open-minded investigative approach. The speakers discuss how biases can affect the interrogation process, the significance of understanding risk factors, and the need for effective interviewing techniques. They highlight the shift towards science-based interviewing practices and provide recommendations for improving the reliability of information gathered during interrogations.
Read the Scientific Review Paper 2.0:  APA PsycNet FullTextHTML page
Truths:
 Research should inform practical applications in interrogation.
Confessions can heavily influence the perception of evidence.
Ongoing training is necessary to adapt to new findings.
Understanding human communication enhances interrogation techniques.
The evolution of interrogation practices is ongoing.
Laboratory research provides foundational insights for fieldwork.
Curiosity drives both scientific and investigative inquiry.
Building rapport is key to effective interviewing.
The goal of an interview should be cooperation, not just a confession.
Confessions can contaminate our opinion and affect judgments.
Understanding risk factors is crucial for accurate information gathering.
We need to reduce the use of accusatorial practices in interviews.
Evidence-based suspicion can help protect innocent individuals.
Collaboration between researchers and practitioners is essential for innovation.

From Interviewing to Industry Leadership: Career Pivots and Communication with David Johnston.

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 conversation highlights the significance of effective communication and adaptability in various roles throughout one's career. In this conversation, David Johnston and Dave Thompson discuss the importance of intentional communication, building rapport, and the role of the National Retail Federation (NRF) in advocating for the retail industry. They explore the challenges of networking in a digital age, the significance of genuine relationships, and the complexities of engaging with media and legislators. The discussion also highlights the upcoming NRF Protect event, emphasizing its value for learning and networking within the retail sector.
Connect with David Johnston here: David Johnston | LinkedIn
Register for NRF Protect 2025: Registration Information | NRF PROTECT 2025
Retailers - use discount code WZ200 to receive $200 off registration as a "thank you" for being a listener to the Truth Be Told podcast, courtesy of the NRF!
Truths:
 
Communication is a core skill in any profession.
Building relationships is essential for success.
Continuous learning is crucial for career growth.
Transitioning roles requires adaptability and new strategies.
Franchise environments present unique challenges.
Understanding cultural differences is key in global operations.
Effective communication can help manage difficult conversations.
Sales skills can be developed from interviewing techniques.
Every conversation can be viewed as an opportunity to negotiate or sell.
Plan conversations with clear intent and goals.
Active listening and open-ended questions foster better communication.
Engagement in meetings is crucial for effective communication.
Genuine relationships lead to successful networking.
Effective communication is key in high-stakes situations.
Helping others achieve success leads to personal growth.