Forensics Found: Recent Episodes
Katharine Pope
Do you feel like you're constantly struggling to keep up with the demands of your career as a responder?
As an experienced Forensic Death Investigator passionate about mentoring, Katharine Pope understands the challenges of being a last responder. Join her as she interviews forensic specialists to learn the pedigree and history of their career paths, tips and tricks for surviving and thriving in a complex field, and exciting stories about being a last responder.
If you want to cut through the noise and get the tools you need to thrive as a last responder, this podcast is for you! Tune in every other week for new episodes that will give you the information and support you need to excel in your career.
Podcast -- www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect -- mentor@forensicsfound.com
Community -- https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Courses -- www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
If you're a responder, anyone who loves and supports a responder, or a student of forensic science, including; law enforcement officers, forensic death investigators, medico-legal staff, forensic specialists, hospital and medical professionals, hospice, military, dispatchers, corrections officers, funeral home and mortuary staff, emergency personnel and more, you're in the right place, friend!
We've got work to do! I've got your six.
Crime scene investigation, mathematical crime-solving, mentorship, and entrepreneurship are all in the mix as your host, Katharine Pope sits down with the dynamic duo behind Gap Science: Erin West and Ashley Church. Intrigued by shows like CSI and driven by their love for science and math, both Erin and Ashley embarked on careers in forensics.
Their conversation takes a deeper turn as they unravel the profound role of mentorship and leadership in shaping their career paths. Erin and Ashley discuss the impact of supervisors and mentors who nurtured their professional and personal growth. They both advocate for the value of mentors who can challenge you and help cultivate your leadership style.
They also delve into their entrepreneurial journey that gave birth to Gap Science, an adventure filled with business conferences, trials, triumphs, and the quest for work-life balance.
Their chat takes a serious note as they talk about mental health in the forensic field, highlighting the need for professionals to be equipped with the right resources and information. They remind listeners that it's perfectly okay to ask for help. To wrap things up, they explore the impact of community and feedback on Gap Science’s success. So, tune in and join us for this valuable dive into the world of forensics!
Topics Covered
Exploring Careers in Forensic Science
Mentorship and Leadership Development in Career
Work-Life Balance
Mental Health and Forensic Professions
Resources Mentioned
Sign up for the Gap Science Summit HERE!
Follow Gap Science on socials!
About Erin West
Erin West began her career in 2006 as a Crime Scene Investigator for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. In 2010, she became a Battlefield Forensics Instructor for the United States Army Intelligence Center of Excellence, where she was responsible for training military personnel how to use a variety of forensic disciplines to investigate crimes overseas. In 2012, she became a Supervisor, then a Deputy Program Manager for a Department of Justice Forensic Laboratory housed at American Systems, where she was responsible for training and supervising staff working in different forensic disciplines and at different levels of management. After leaving American Systems, she spent several years with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office in Florida working as a full-time Latent Print Examiner. In 2019, she became the Forensic Supervisor over the Crime Scene Unit and DNA Laboratory at the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, in 2020 she became the Latent Print Supervisor over the Latent Print Unit, and in 2021 she became the Forensic Manager.
Erin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida in 2006 and a Master of Science degree in Forensic DNA and Serology with a graduate certificate in Forensic Toxicology from the University of Florida in 2012.
Erin is a member of the International Association for Identification (IAI) and the Florida Division of the IAI and has been a presenter at the annual FDIAI Conference. She is the Director of Region 2 of the FDIAI. She is an instructor for TriTech Forensics. She is an IAI Certified Crime Scene Analyst and an IAI Certified Latent Print Examiner.
Contact: erin@gapscience.com
About Ashley Church
Ashley Church has always had a passion for forensic science and chased her dream job as a crime scene investigator. After completing an internship at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for her undergraduate degree, she continued her education in entomology where she studied the impact of a highly prolific invasive species within a quarantined laboratory. She was also responsible for collaborating with specialists, organizing materials, and developing presentations workshops as well as recruiting, training, and supervising undergraduate laboratory assistants.
Ashley began her career as a Crime Scene Investigator for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Orlando, Florida. After completing her first year, she became a field training officer.
In 2017, she became a Forensic Technician for the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office in Kissimmee, Florida and she was promoted to Forensic Supervisor in 2018. She was responsible for supervising members of the Forensic Unit and Pre-Screening DNA Laboratory as well as training staff in these forensic disciplines to full competency.
Ashley earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Science with a Minor in Chemistry and a Certificate in Crime Scene Investigations from the University of Central Florida in 2011 and a Master of Science degree in Entomology from the University of Florida in 2013. She also became a Certified Crime Scene Analyst through the International Association for Identification (IAI) in 2019.
Ashley currently works full-time for Gap Science. She incorporates her passion for science with a modern, energetic instructing style in hopes of inspiring other leaders in similar fields.
Contact: ashley@gapscience.com
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
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Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Ready to delve into a world where anthropology, dentistry, and detective work collide? Today's episode explores forensic odontology with our guest, Dr. Stuart Alexander, a seasoned professional who balances traditional dentistry and consulting for the Medical Examiner's offices in New Jersey and Delaware.
We'll open your eyes to the importance of peer review, continuous learning, and the curious overlap between anthropology and dentistry.
We'll navigate the path to becoming a forensic odontologist and discuss why this field is in critical demand today.
Dr. Alexander presents insights from his experiences mentoring students and dental assistants and sheds light on the importance of assertiveness in this niche field.
So many takeaways in this episode. Don’t miss it!
Topics Covered
Exploring Forensic Odontology
Forensic Dentistry
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
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Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Katharine Pope is bringing you another captivating episode into the world of death investigation. This week Kat is interviewing Amy Renfro. Straight from the trenches of the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office in Fort Worth, Texas, Amy unveils her intriguing journey of transitioning from a zookeeper to a respected professional in the forensics field. Along with her academic background in biology and forensic science, Amy explains the significant role that mentorship within the office played in her success. She offers a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards that come with the job, underscoring the importance of real-world experiences over classroom learning.
Amy shares her journey into forensic genetic genealogy, shedding light on her ongoing program at the University of New Haven. She also touches upon her latest hobby of 3D printing while revealing the role her son's interest in gaming played in sparking this new interest. Additionally, she discusses the process of using GEDmatch for forensic genetic genealogy and the necessity of exploiting all possible avenues during the identification process. Don't miss out on this riveting exploration of these topics and a treasure trove of insights and advice on the world of death investigation.
Topics Covered
Medical Examiner's Office Career Path
3D Printing, Gaming, and Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) or Forensic Genetic Genealogy (FGG) or Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG)
Advice and Insights on Death Investigation
About Amy Renfro
I obtained my BS in Biology with an emphasis in Forensic Science in 2009 from the University of Texas at Arlington while working full time as an Investigative Clerk at TCME. I was hired as an Investigative Clerk in February, 2004.
I have taken numerous classes in Forensic Death Investigation including the NIJ funded, 40-hour class at OCME NYC with Ed Wallace over 10 years ago (I don’t remember the exact class date), Crime Scene Investigation training – 40 hours
I was promoted to Forensic Death Investigator soon after graduation and eventually promoted to Senior FDI, which is my current position. I have facilitated several different programs including Child Fatality Review and Current Trends programs that our office ran in the past (before Covid).
I have recently started a graduate certificate training program in Forensic Genetic Genealogy at the University of New Haven with Dr. Claire Glynn and staff. My goal is to help begin a FGG program at my office and help identify Doe cold cases in our office and assist local law enforcement with FGG for current and cold case work.
Amy Renfro, B.S., D-ABMDI
Senior Forensic Death Investigator
Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office, Fort Worth TX
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Katharine Pope is diving deep into the world of forensic science in the latest episode of Forensics Found Podcast. We welcome Bryan Johnson, Major Incident Program Manager at the FBI's Latent Print Unit, to take us through his intriguing and integral role assisting local agencies in the resolution of their mass fatalities, unidentified decedents, and missing persons cases. Bryan shows us how passionate he is about his calling, firmly believing in the collaborative nature of human identification and criminal justice resolution.
Kat and Bryan discuss his early days as a medicolegal investigator, through his stints in forensic diving, to his present position at the FBI. Brian opens up about the process of post-mortem printing, his time at the Honolulu Medical Examiner's office, and his belief in the importance of passion for one's work. Get an up-close look at the FBI's Disaster Victim Identification Squad and the forensic science involved in human identification.
Bryan shares his experiences as a US representative to Interpol, recounting the emotional aftermath of witnessing tragic global events. He shares his personal coping mechanisms amidst crisis and his ability to find positivity in even the most challenging situations.
Topics Covered
Death Investigations and Forensic Science
The Journey of a Forensic Scientist
Working in a Dark World Challenges
Work-Life Balance in Forensics Challenges
Resources Mentioned
Biometric Training Postmortem Printing Series About Bryan Johnson
Bryan T. Johnson is the Major Incident Management Program Manager for the FBI Laboratory’s Latent Print Unit in Quantico, VA. He has been with the FBI for over 13 years as an FBI Qualified Latent Print Examiner and has focused on mass fatality and unknown deceased issues for the last 7 years. He has a BS and an MS in Forensic Science from Chaminade University of Honolulu, where he started his career with the City and County of Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office. He is in charge of coordinating the FBI’s Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Response Team, which conducts all fingerprint identifications for the Armed Forces Medical Examiner in Dover, DE, and at mass fatality incidents around the globe. In addition to his direct duties with the FBI, he is currently a member of the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) DVI Subcommittee, Vice Chair of the AAFS Standards Board (ASB) DVI Working Group, as well as one of two U.S. Representatives and the Chair of Ridgeology for the INTERPOL DVI Working Group.
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Join Katharine Pope as she explores the fascinating world of forensic anthropology with Scotia Mullin (they/them), a biological anthropologist who works with the University of Melbourne. Scotia and Kat have an enlightening conversation about how Australia handles medicolegal death investigations and human remains, a process that proves to be vastly different from the United States. Scotia also shares his captivating journey from Wyoming to Australia and his role in the cultural heritage audit at the University of Melbourne.
Scotia offers a unique insight into how the COVID-19 pandemic changed his plans for a PhD, and his introduction to forensic anthropology leading to a Master's of Public Health. Listen in as Kat and Scotia discuss Scotia’s work with the Royal Dental Hospital and the University of Melbourne on the identification and repatriation of Aboriginal ancestral remains. They explore the impact of anthropology on disenfranchised minority communities and the importance of incorporating cultural context into the development of biological profiles.
Lastly, Scotia shares advice for aspiring anthropologists, emphasizing the importance of having a broader scope of skills, exploring different opportunities, and learning to live with imposter syndrome. They also touch on the importance of having a sense of belonging and support from a friend group or community, and open lines of communication about mental health issues. Tune in for this informative and engaging discussion with Scotia Mullin!
Topics Covered
Forensic Anthropology and Death Investigation
Career Paths in Anthropology and Public Health
Anthropology and the Importance of Representation
Advice for Aspiring Anthropologists
Academic and Career Success in Forensic Anthropology
Support and Communication in Community
About Scotia Mullin
Scotia Mullin is an Australian biological/forensic anthropologist currently undertaking his PhD in Forensic Medicine and Anthropology. His work predominantly focuses on the anthropology of violence and trauma particularly in marginalised communities.
Scotia has bachelor's degrees in both anthropology and geography and a Master of Public Health (MPH).
Currently Scotia's day to day consist of identification and repatriation works of Australian Ancestral Remains, traumatology, and research. He is also an on call consultant for Kenyon International in the fields of anthropology, archaeology and public health.
In his downtime Scotia enjoys spending time with his family and friends, hiking, reading, sleeping, and spending quality time with his dogs.
Scotia is always happy to have a chat with others in the field in person or via zoom as long as a cup of tea is involved.
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Join Katharine Pope in this fascinating discussion with Derek Congram, a forensic specialist with the International Committee of the Red Cross, as they explore his unique career path and the work of his organization, the International Center for Humanitarian Forensics.
Listen in as Derek shares how he's using the soft skills he gained in forensic anthropology to apply to many different roles and how the Center has been helping local agencies during the pandemic. From his journey into this line of work to his experiences with short-term contracts, Derek's story offers some invaluable lessons for anyone interested in exploring the very big field of forensic science.
In this episode, Derek and Kat chat about his career journey as a forensic specialist, the perceptions of specialists, and how imposter syndrome can be both motivating and distracting. They also explore how peer support can provide a space for forensic specialists to debrief and share their experiences.
Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with valuable insights and advice for those pursuing a career in forensics.
Topics Covered
Humanitarian Forensic Science Careers
Anthropology Career Doubts and Soft Skills
Managing Work-Life Balance in Forensics
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
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Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Discover the fascinating world from inside the morgue on the latest episode of the Forensics Found Podcast! Get exclusive insights from two experienced autopsy technicians, Raven Malcorvojic and Erika Rigley, as they take you through the intricate details of their role. From building a comprehensive understanding of each case to sharing the best practices for achieving outstanding results, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who's curious about the inner workings of the morgue and death investigation. Plus, learn how to handle tough cases with confidence and how supervisors can support their teams for success.
Tune into this week’s episode and learn more about the Forensic Autopsy Technicians role, how to get started and how to become a member of NFAT. Head to our website below to listen and discover new opportunities in this challenging and rewarding field.
Resources Mentioned:
National Association of Forensic Autopsy Technicians (NFAT) - https://www.nafat.org/
Into the Void by Raven Malcorvojic - https://www.amazon.com/Into-Void-Raven-Malcorvojic/dp/1478798262
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Our guest this week is Dr. Timothy Gocha Ph.D. Tim is the Associate Director of the Forensic Anthropology Center at Texas State University. On this episode of the Forensic Found Podcast, we will hear how Tim got into the field of forensic anthropology, his role at Texas State University and the groundbreaking Operation Identification program, featured in the movie Missing in Brooks County.
Operation Identification (OpID) aims to identify and repatriate unidentified human remains found along or in close proximity to the South Texas border through community outreach, scientific analysis, advocacy, and collaboration with governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Kat and Tim talk about their month spent as Visiting Scientists in the Anthropology Department at the New York City - OCME. This unique opportunity took place with the largest medical examiner's office in the United States and accepts only a handful of participants each year.
Tune into this week’s episode and learn more about Tim, how he discovered his passion for this field, and all about the work he does with Texas State University and the Operation Identification program!
Resources Mentioned:
Operation Identification
https://opid.wp.txstate.edu/
Missing in Brooks County
https://www.missinginbrookscounty.com/
Visiting Scientist Program at NYC - OCME
https://www.nyc.gov/site/ocme/services/visiting-scientist-opportunities.page
About Timothy Gocha
Tim Gocha is the Associate Director of the Forensic Anthropology Center at Texas State University. Prior to this appointment, he was a forensic anthropologist in southern Nevada. He has assisted with victim recovery and/or identification from several mass fatality events including the deadliest hot air balloon crash in U.S. history, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history, the deadliest wildfire in California history, as well as the ongoing humanitarian crisis of migrant deaths along the U.S./Mexico border.
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Join Katharine Pope on the Forensics Found Podcast as she sits down with Kevin Reynolds - a highly skilled detective supervisor, crime scene investigator, and President/CEO of TactionUSA. In this episode, they dive into his unique role and experiences working in Cook County, Illinois.
Kat and Kevin discuss the demanding on-call schedules that come with working in the field of investigation. Furthermore, Kevin shares his insights on how to get started in the detective field, the essential certifications and on-the-job training required, and how to transition from work to home life.
They'll also explore the difficult cases Kevin has handled throughout his career, and hear what it's like being recognized in public by past clients. Whether you’re a seasoned law enforcement or forensics pro or just breaking into the field, this episode is for you!
About TactionUSA
Taction USA is a forensic supply company with products curated and sourced by active US Law Enforcement and Crime Scene Professionals. Check them out today!
https://www.tactionusa.com/
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Join MariaTeresa A. Tersigni-Tarrant (MT) and Katharine Pope on this week's Forensics Found Podcast as they dish on the cutthroat world of forensic anthropology.
Discover how MT stumbled onto her calling while in college, changed her major from pre-med to forensic anthropology, and experienced working with an inspiring mentor in graduate school.
MT reveals how she landed a job after a very unique interview, the importance of advocating for yourself as an anthropologist, and tips on proving yourself. Learn about the diverse nature of this field and how communication plays a key role. Don't miss out on this episode. Tune in now!
Links
Medicolegal Death Investigators Training
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
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Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
About the Guest
MariaTeresa A. Tersigni-Tarrant, PhD is board certified Forensic Anthropologist (D-ABFA) and board registered Death investigator (D-ABMDI). She is a four-field trained anthropologist that specializes in Forensic Anthropology, with previous teaching experience in many aspects of cultural anthropology, physical anthropology and archaeology, as well as, anatomy, histology, embryology, and forensic science. Dr. Tersigni-Tarrant has over 20 years of teaching experience and has a passion for helping learners at all levels of undergraduate and graduate education.
Dr. Tersigni-Tarrant currently serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine (SLUSOM), where she is the Co-Director of Forensic Education. She is the course director and instructor for the Basic and Advanced Medicolegal Death Investigation Courses offered through SLUSOM. She serves as a Forensic Anthropologist consultant on National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s Team Adam, as well as, serving as a part-time Forensic Anthropologist for SNA international in support of the Defense POW-MIA Accounting Agency. Dr. Tersigni- Tarrant also serves as part-time faculty member at Oakland University in their Forensic Nursing Program, Eastern Michigan University’s Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology, and Saint Louis University’s Forensic Science Program.
Dr. Tersigni-Tarrant serves as a Forensic Anthropologist consultant for various other medicolegal entities in Michigan, Missouri, and Georgia. She was elected President of the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA) in 2019, serving as president of the ABFA until July 2022. Dr. Tersigni-Tarrant currently serves as the Past-President for the ABFA and a member of the Board of Directors. Dr. Tersigni-Tarrant also served as the Chief Death Investigator for the St. Louis City Medical Examiner’s Office until May 2021.
Dr. Tersigni-Tarrant received her bachelor’s degrees in Microbiology and Anthropology from Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. She attended graduate school at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee, where she received her Master of Arts Degree in Physical Anthropology. She continued to pursue her doctorate at The University of Tennessee, with a dissertation entitled Serial Long Bone Histology: Inter and Intra Bone Age Estimation. Dr. Tersigni-Tarrant was awarded a post-doctoral fellowship working at the Joint POW-MIA Accounting Command on Hickam AFB, Hawaii. During this fellowship, she was instrumental in establishing standard operating procedures for the histological analysis of human remains for the purpose of identifying missing armed-service members.
Alfarena McGinty's remarkable 25-year journey began at the Marion County Coroner's office in Indianapolis, Indiana. From getting her start as a secretary looking at photos of deceased people to handling operations as Chief Deputy Coroner, Alfie has taken on a great challenge and thrived every step of the way!
In this episode, Kat sits down with Alfie, who gives us an insightful glimpse into her experiences in creating a connected and open culture within the workplace. She shares her leadership strategies that retain staff and encourage communication. Alfie also discusses her county's unique requirement for coroners handling death notifications, the incorporation of social workers for support, and the importance of understanding different cultures. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation on building strong bridges within your team!
Topics discussed in this episode:
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Leadership qualities that help retain staff and promote open communication
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The values and principles that Alfie implements within her team
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The role of focus groups and discussions
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Unique aspect of Marion County: coroners conducting death notifications
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Incorporating social workers and additional training for staff in death notification
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The importance of empathy and building connections with affected families
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Addressing the different cultures within Marion County and gathering resources for death notifications
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The methods for enhancing connection within the workplace
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
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Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
No matter what type of forensics profession you're in, it's important to have a thorough understanding of the sciences. This is especially true for anyone looking to become a crime scene investigator (CSI)! Understanding the intersection between forensics, medicine, biology, chemistry, and criminal justice gives responders a unique advantage when it comes to handling criminal cases. By developing an understanding of various scientific practices and theories, aspiring investigators can equip themselves with all the necessary tools needed for a successful career as a CSI.
When Dennise Hernandez decided to take a chance and apply for a job with the Ventura Co. Sheriff's Department, little did she know that it would be the start of an incredible career in CSI and Fingerprint Analysis. With an academic background in the sciences from UC Davis, her determination paid off, and she got the job she applied for. She never underestimated the power of dreaming big and going for it! Dennise is now a Supervisory Forensic Scientist for the Ventura Co. Sheriff's Office, oversees the CSI and Fingerprint Units, and is currently a practicing CSI and a certified Latent Print Examiner.
Tune into this week’s episode of the Forensics Found Podcast to hear Dennise’s origin story and get first-hand guidance on what is needed to academically prepare you for a career in forensics and crime scene investigation.
Do you have a passion outside of work? Dennise does! She is an avid runner and shares all about it in this episode. Follow her @latentrunner on IG and get to know her better!
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
On this episode of the Forensics Found Podcast, listen to Phillip Verso's story as he shares his journey to becoming a Death Investigator, how he handles hard cases, and two cases he will never forget. Phillip began by majoring in anthropology, but later found his true calling when he became a Medical Death Investigator, now working for Maricopa County, Arizona.
Phillip explains how there is no manual on how to do this type of job; you have to figure it out along the way - and the skills needed to be successful are both learned and earned. He further describes how developing trust and relationships with others is absolutely key, and that going into management would assist him in training new investigators so that they feel confident and comfortable doing their work.
Phillip has worked a few cases that stick out in his mind. From a case involving You Tubers, a high profile homicide, and one case that hit close to home, and the song playing at the scene still haunts Phillip to this day.
He leaves one simple piece of advice..."expect the unexpected."
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Jaclyn MacIsaac's journey to becoming Senior Medical Investigator for the Rockland, NY Medical Examiners Office began with her passion for detective shows as a child. Since that early interest, she has always wanted to pursue a career in investigation but wasn’t sure how - until it all clicked in her last semester of college. Jackie saw an opportunity at the Medical Examiners' Office. She applied, though truthfully, she was not expecting to get the job due to what ended up being a rather nerve-wracking interview. To her astonishment, however, she was called back and offered an autopsy assistant position - something that blew her mind! It was a bold move at twenty two years old, and it certainly paid off - now a senior investigator, Jackie looks back fondly on recounting the terrific adventure and hysteria of her very first day on the job.
In 2019 Jackie was prospected to teach forensic science at a local college. Despite having a family and working full time as an investigator, Jackie juggled teaching and her career for five semesters. Jackie gives some actionable tips you can take to find balance in your career and home life, especially if you have kids at home!
Hear Jackie’s unique, funny, and enticing story on this week’s episode of the Forensics Found Podcast!
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
David will shed some light on the fascinating differences between two prominent agencies as a Forensic Death Investigator this week on the Forensics Found Podcast. With Harris and Montgomery Counties in Texas each offering their own unique working environment, David points out what makes a huge difference for those working in death investigation, including mental health support and language proficiencies. His experience of being the only bilingual death investigator within Harris County gives him an insight into how beneficial Spanish-speaking skills are in providing closure to grieving families.
Few cases can affect investigators as much as the one David describes in this episode. Take the case of a man who suffered the devastating loss of three family members in an accident; this was an emotionally charged situation and David focused on supporting the man while getting his job done. No matter how hardened you may be after years in death investigation, it's clear that there are some cases that never fully leave your mind. Those stories stay with us forever, teaching us empathy for those touched by tragedy.
This episode sheds light on the issues Death Investigators face. You will learn some applicable skills and valuable takeaways! Listen in to find out how to handle a hard case, successfully transition through changing job locations, and gain an understanding of what to keep an eye out for when considering new roles.
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
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FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
This week on the Forensics Found podcast, host Katharine Pope sat down with Dr Nick Passalacqua to explore the world of forensic anthropology, and what it takes to navigate academia. Through his experiences, Nick gives us a heartfelt insight into climbing education and career ladders, but also stresses the importance of managing your time in order to achieve success. He explains how we all face the same difficulty in how incompatible work and home lives can be when juggling a demanding field like forensic anthropology.
Nick talked with Kat about how others feel this field is saturated, and tells how to stay ahead of the competition. He shared his experiences on diving deep and staying proactive to discover more opportunities, as well as tips to ensure your success in the world of anthropology.
So if you've been looking for a few pointers on your own educational journey or are curious about what it takes to make it in forensic anthropology - take some notes from someone who has been through it all - tune into this week's episode of the Forensics Found podcast!
Mentioned in this episode:
American Board of Forensic Anthropology → https://www.theabfa.org/
American Academy of Forensics Sciences → https://www.aafs.org/
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
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FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
From a pre-med major to a Medicolegal Death Investigator to the Long Term Unidentified Coordinator for the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Lara Newell is no stranger to difficult roles. This week on the Forensics Found Podcast, host Katharine Pope sits down with Lara and discusses how motherhood has enabled her to create a balance between her job and life as a last responder. Lara shares candidly about how she was able to reframe her thinking while struggling with the internalization of situations and how she can better manage a work-life balance despite the often overwhelming demands of this role.
When it comes to working in the field of forensics, Lara has one important piece of advice - to make sure you have something you love to come home to. After a long and difficult shift having a bright spot - an activity, hobby, or pursuit that brings you joy – is essential. Most importantly, it will give you something meaningful to look forward to at the end of the day.
It is an inspiring conversation you don’t want to miss!
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
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FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
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*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
From feeling unconnected and losing her job, to rising as Chief of Staff - Katharine Pope dives deep with Barbara Butcher’s inspiring story on this episode of the Forensics Found Podcast. After drinking heavily out of unhappiness in her role working as a Physician's Assistant, Barbara got sober and discovered the reasons behind why she was struggling so much. Boldly making an effort to reevaluate herself and rediscover where her skills were best suited, she went on to meet Dr. Charles Hirsch; The NYC Chief Medical Examiner who opened up incredible new opportunities for Barbara – ultimately introducing her to a remarkable career as a Medicolegal Death Investigator!
Katharine and Barbara discuss the importance of investigating death with compassion. They explored how tough it is for a death investigator to transition from professional to personal life, where even something like discussing dinner plans with their spouse can seem alien. Hoping connection will replace detachment in this field, this conversation highlighted the need for kindness as we help those who have lost loved ones and even help ourselves.
About Barbara Butcher
Barbara Butcher is an expert in medicolegal death investigation and is currently a consultant for medico-legal death investigation, working with forensic pathologists, educators, television, and mystery writers.
She is the former Chief of Staff and Director of the Forensic Sciences Training Program at the NYC Office of Chief Medical Examiner. She was responsible for Investigations, Disaster Planning, Identifications, Evidence, and Missing Persons. She coordinated the recovery effort at the World Trade Center after 9/11 and helped manage the response to the crash of Flight 587, and investigated the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center.
Barbara has worked internationally, consulting for the World Health Organization during the 2004 Tsunami in Thailand, the London Underground bombing, and the Hong Kong and Norwegian governments.
As a medicolegal death investigator at OCME, she investigated more than 5500 death scenes and 680 homicides. Her book “What the Dead Know,” covering some of her most interesting cases, will be released in June 2023 by Simon and Schuster.
Grab your copy here! → What the Dead Know
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
Facebook → @Forensics Found
Instagram → @Forensics_Found
*All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.
Join the Forensics Found podcast community, a supportive hub for Last Responders! With tips and tools to help you reconnect with your role and build a healthier work-life balance. Dive into actionable steps from your host, Katharine Pope, and expert guests, and discover how you can take control of your role today!
You will learn how to foster career success, prevent burnout, hear inspiring stories from professionals in the field, and get tips for creating a healthy work-life balance. If you're in law enforcement, a Medical Examiner, Firefighter, EMS, Healthcare Provider, Forensic Anthropologist, Death Investigator, Crime Scene Tech, or any related field - this podcast is for you! This is where we can come together, share and discuss this challenging job.
Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!
Podcast → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast
Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com
Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/
Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com
FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in
Connect on social!
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About the Host
Katharine Pope has experience working as a Crime Scene Specialist for the Austin Police Department, a WWII casualty analyst for the Department of Defense Missing/POW Personnel Office, a Forensic Anthropologist for DMORT Team II, and a Forensic Investigator in Texas, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware medical examiners’ offices. She now works for RTI International on the NamUs program. She has been happily alcohol-free since February 2021!
Kat lives with her husband and two kids in Salisbury, MD. She is the daughter of a firefighter and ER nurse (turned school nurse). She is the sister of a US Army veteran (retired) working as a medical librarian. She is the wife of a teacher.
“I believe that public service is a calling. I want to help our fields become more accessible for students and professionals so we can do the job to the best of our ability.“
BA, Colorado College in psychology and anthropology
MA, Texas State University - San Marcos in Forensic Anthropology
Registered, American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators
Fellow, American Academy of Forensic Sciences Anthropology section
Chair, Board of Directors, Society of Forensic Anthropologists