The Crime Lab Coach Cast: Recent Episodes
John M. Collins
I twice-monthly conversation about issues, challenges, and opportunities facing the forensic laboratory community.
In this coaching session with John Collins, we explore specific priorities and strategies for developing professionals who give courtroom testimony as a part of their normal responsibilities. This episode is useful for accelerating the development of all kinds of expert witnesses, especially forensic laboratory scientists and administrators.
Season: 5 Episode: 93 Duration: 48:06 YOUTUBE CHANNELS Main Podcast Channel Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSOR Learn About the Innovators at Promega International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
None
ABOUT YOUR HOST
John Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more books and other information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
In this coaching session with John Collins, we discuss the problem of placing our trust in subject-matter experts in a time when it seems that integrity has gone out of style. John offers some solutions and strategies for how to be more effective in screening the individual expertise, competence, and character of individuals who claim to be experts.
Season: 5 Episode: 92 Duration: 42:06 YOUTUBE CHANNELS Main Podcast Channel Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSOR Learn About the Innovators at Promega International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Everyone is Cheating Their Way Through College (Article)
ABOUT YOUR HOST
John Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more books and other information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
Jacqueline Helfgott is the Director of the Crime and Justice Research Center at Seattle University and the author of “Copycat Crime: How Media, Technology, and Digital Culture Inspire Criminal Behavior and Violence.” In this episode, Dr. Helfgott speaks with John Collins about the subject of psychopathy and how prevalent it is across the human population. They also discuss how psychopaths come into being, and whether or not the disorder can be treated.
Season: 5 Episode: 91 Duration: 56:00 YOUTUBE CHANNELS Main Podcast Channel Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSOR Learn About the Innovators at Promega International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Jacqueline Helfgott at University of Seattle
Jackqueline Helfgott Author's Page
ABOUT YOUR HOSTJohn Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more books and other information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
John Collins speaks with Jeff Asher, a data-analytics expert and Substack writer specializing in - as Jeff puts it - crime, data, and crime data. Jeff has an impressive history working in the Department of Defense and the CIA, among others. In this episode, John and Jeff discuss the measurement of crime in the United States, how it is done, and the challenges that exist in collecting, analyzing, and reporting this data as efficiently and accurately as possible.
Season: 5 Episode: 90 Duration: 32:06 YOUTUBE CHANNELS Main Podcast Channel Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSOR Learn About the Innovators at Promega International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
AH Data Analytics
Subscribe to Jeff Asher’s Substack
ABOUT YOUR HOST
John Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more books and other information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
Nancy La Vigne is the Dean of the Rutgers School of Criminal Justice, based at the campus in Newark, New Jersey. In this episode of Crime and the Courtroom, John Collins and Dr. La Vigne discuss her new responsibilities at Rutgers, as well as contemporary priorities in criminal justice research, technology, and education. Dr. La Vigne also shares her experiences as the former director of the National Institute of Justice, and what it’s been like for her to return home to her alma mater, where she now leads the same school where she received her doctorate degree in 1996.
Season: 5 Episode: 89 Duration: 45:04 YOUTUBE CHANNELS Main Podcast Channel Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSOR Learn About the Innovators at Promega International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Rutgers School of Criminal Justice
ABOUT YOUR HOST
John Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more books and other information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
In this episode, John Collins builds on the themes and recommendations covered in episode 87, with regards to forensic laboratory accreditation and its strengths and limitations. Seven policy priorities are discussed to help forensic science laboratories, their parent agencies, and their jurisdictions prevent instances of catastrophic misconduct before they happen.
Season: 5 Episode: 88 Duration: 1:00:18 YOUTUBE CHANNELS Main Podcast Channel Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSOR Learn About the Innovators at Promega International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Article: A Reality Check on Crime Lab Backlogs
ABOUT YOUR HOST
John Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more books and other information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
John Collins answers an email from an audience member who wonders: What’s the point of accreditation if a catastrophic failure or major act of misconduct can still happen under the radar.
Season: 5 Episode: 87 Duration: 35:57 YOUTUBE CHANNELSMain Podcast Channel Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSORLearn About the Innovators at Promega International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
CBS News News Report on Yvonne Woods
Book: HR Management in the Forensic Science Laboratory
Article: The Wrongful Conviction of Forensic Science
ABOUT YOUR HOST
John Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more books and other information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
Caitlin Burchill is an investigative reporter with NBC Connecticut and a proud member of the production team that created the documentary, Traces of Doubt: The Forensics of Dr. Henry Lee, which is now available in its entirety on YouTube. Caitlin speaks with John Collins about her life and career as an investigative reporter, and sheds light on her investigation of famed but now controversial forensic expert, Dr. Henry Lee.
Season: 5 Episode: 86 Duration: 40:30
YOUTUBE CHANNELS
Main Podcast Channel
Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSOR
Learn About the Innovators at Promega
International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Traces of Doubt: The Forensics of Dr. Henry Lee
Caitlin Burchill at NBC Connecticut
ABOUT YOUR HOSTJohn Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more information and resources, please visit www.criticalvictories.com
Dr. Sarah Chu is the Director of Policy and Reform at the Perlmutter Center for Legal Justice at the Cordoza School of Law in New York. In her role at the center, she applies her own extensive background in science and public policy to take an active lead on advancing our criminal justice system's efforts to utilize forensic evidence with maximum effectiveness and integrity. In this episode, Dr. Chu speaks with John Collins about her work at the Perlmutter Center, some of the more pressing issues related to the contemporary application of forensic evidence in criminal trials, and specific efforts that jurisdictions can prioritize to minimize the chance of erroneous convictions.
Season: 5 Episode: 85 Duration: 59:02
YOUTUBE CHANNELS
Main Podcast Channel
Highlights Channel
FROM OUR SPONSOR
Learn About the Innovators at Promega
International Symposium on Human Identification
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Perlmutter Center for Legal Justice
ABOUT YOUR HOSTJohn Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more information and resources, please visit www.criticalvictories.com
In Episode 84 of Crime and the Courtroom, John Collins explores why forensic science is distinct from traditional sciences and often misunderstood. He examines how forensic methods—such as fingerprint and bullet comparisons—are rooted in stochastics, the study of randomness and unique patterns. Addressing past criticisms, Collins argues that forensic science is a leading preventer of wrongful convictions, not a cause of them. He calls for forensic professionals to uphold ethical standards and embrace their field’s scientific legitimacy. This episode provides crucial insights for those interested in forensic evidence, justice, and the evolving role of expert testimony.
Season: 5 Episode: 84 Duration: 43:22
YOUTUBE CHANNELS
Main Podcast Channel
Highlights Channel
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Stochastics (Journal By Taylor & Francis)
Modern Stochastics: Theory and Application (Journal)
ABOUT YOUR HOSTJohn Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more information and resources, please visit www.criticalvictories.com
The profession of forensic science has lost one its greatest thinkers and pioneers. His name is John Murdock, and his body of work contributed to the professionalization and trustworthiness of the evidentiary analyses performed by forensic science laboratories all over the world. In this update, your host John Collins commemorates the life and career of John Murdock, recalling how his own career and ways of thinking about the reliability of forensic science continues to impact his work to this day.
Season: 5 Episode: 83 Duration: 26:16
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Research by John Murdock and Al Biasotti
ABOUT YOUR HOSTJohn Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
In this inaugural episode of Crime and the Coutroom, John Collins shares what he describes as "the craziest case I ever experienced in a forensic science laboratory." As he explains, sometime in late 1995 or early 1996, John conducted what started as a routine forensic analysis of a firearm used by a police officer in a shooting invovling an armed suspect. As it turned out, nothing about the case was routine, and the experience helped to galvanize John's perspectives on the risks of policing and the greater risks of dysfucntional police culture. John closes with some encouragement for police organizations doing their best to enable healthy, productive, supportive, and efficient organizational environments for their sworn and civilian team members, as well as the communities they serve.
Season: 5 Episode: 82 Duration: 34:24
REFERENCED RESOURCES
Book: The New Superior - By John M. Collins (2023)
ABOUT YOUR HOSTJohn Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.
For more information and resources, please visit www.criticalvictories.com
In this quick holiday update, John Collins shares what he argues is the one key message to teach children so that they can grow up as attentive, cautious adults who can take care of themselves.
John Collins discusses emerging forensic results in the investigation of the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, and why one evidentiary issue might allow the defense to make some noise.
References
Mangione attorney says he will challenge forensic results’ admissibility, accuracy
Crime Lab Report (2019, Academic Press)
A major decision has been made to expand the reach of our podcast while continuing to prioritize the challenges and opportunities facing the forensic laboratory community. In this final CoachCast update of 2024, John Collins explains the changes that are taking effect, and the strategic basis for those changes. The result will be an expanded audience that shares one thing in common: a deep professional interest in improving our society's capacity to prevent, investigate, and adjudicate crime.
John Collins, in a special Crime Lab CoachCast update, reflects on the importance of creating conditions for the criminal justice system to be elevated by professionals with the right expertise, attitudes, and leadership skills. He emphasizes the significance of executing consequential roles in striving for personal success, and the need to carefully reassess one's identity and priorities during career transitions. John also announced his 10th year in private practice as a coach, speaker, writer, facilitator, and mentor, hinting at a significant (but not radical) expansion to the CoachCast format and its target audiences, which will be further explained in an upcoming update.
We are entering "strategy season" here at Critical Victories. John Collins discusses how to take advantage of the opportunity to plan your coming year and the positive psychological impact it can have on yourself and your organization. John also provides some follow-up to his comments in episode #75 by discussing some of the inherent conflicts of interest that must be identified and managed when public servants engage in outside forms of employment or business activities.
References
Visit our Friends at Promega
Advanced Expert Witnessing (December Online)
Show Links
Promega News on Stutter Solution - The Scientist Magazine
Book: Wicked Takes the Witness Stand by Mardi Link
Coach Cast Episode #75
Denver Post Article on 'Fledgling' Forensic Business Enterprise
Correction
The start of our 2025 season will begin on Monday January 6th, not the 7th as was mentioned in this episode.
In today's coaching session, John discusses the problem of technical units and their supervisors not playing nice with their laboratory administrators, the damage this causes, and approaches to dealing with it - and preventing it - effectively. We also enjoy a conversation with Bob McClaren, Director of R&D in Genetic Identity at the Promega corporation on one of the biggest discoveries in the history forensic DNA analysis.
References
Visit our Friends at Promega
Advanced Expert Witnessing (December Online)
Show Links
Promega News on Stutter Solution - The Scientist Magazine
There are times when life confronts us with great loss or the threat of loss, and the emotions we feel can be overwhelming. Deep emotional pain, however, can have adverse effects on the brain that threaten the quality of a sufferer's work. In this episode of the CoachCast, John Collins provides insight and tips for dealing with emotional pain, and how to support the members of our teams when they are afflicted by the most difficult circumstances that life will inevitably bring our way.
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
Advanced Expert Witnessing (Online)
Show Links
Hennepin County DNA Contamination
The Scent of Death - A New Methodology in Death Investigations
CBI Audit and Responding Proposals
HR Management in the Forensic Science Laboratory (Book, 2018)
Coming off a recent tour of workshops and presentations on the subject, John Collins discusses the threat of excessively restrictive policies that prevent hiring managers from really getting to know their job candidates. When forensic science laboratories are forced to follow a structured "script" that prohibits a conversational connection with interview subjects, their ability to recognize and identify potential problems is significantly impaired.
Events and Workshops
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
Advanced Expert Witnessing (Online)
Show Links
Stutter Reduction Enzyme by Promega
HR Management in the Forensic Science Laboratory (Book, 2018)
This is a Crime Lab CoachCast Update for Monday September 30, 2024. Live from the 2024 meeting of the Association of Forensic Quality Assurance Managers.
Coach's Message for Today
"Honorable and competent work performance arise from professionals who know how much they truly matter."
The newest forensic science organization got off the ground in November 2023. The National Association of Forensic Science Boards is now set to host its 2nd annual meeting in Albany, New York. In this episode of the CoachCast, John speaks with Kermit Channell and Jennifer Naugle about the organization's mission, future, and upcoming meeting. John also explains the evolution of his own thinking about forensic science oversight.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
Events and Workshops
ISHI 2024 Workshops - San Antonio (September 2024)
AFQAM 2024 - Daytona Beach, Florida
True Intergity at AFQAM - Registration Page
Show Notes and Links
National Association of Forensic Science Boards
National Forensic Science Week - Texas Style
NIST Strategic Opportunities Report
Rhode Island Firearms Suspension
CFSO on Smith v. Arizona
Few things are harder on a team or organization than a change in executive-level leadership. The experience can leave even the best-running teams feeling like everyone has lost their minds. In this episode, we explain why it happens and how to prevent it with a more thoughtful and open approach to transitioning between leadership regimes.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
Events and Workshops
ISHI 2024 Workshops - San Antonio (September 2024)
AFQAM 2024 - Daytona Beach, Florida
True Intergity at AFQAM - Registration Page
Show Notes and Links
Election Forensics
Wall Street Journal on Cannibis and Impaired Driving
There is a particular kind of individual with a particular temperament that you must identify and eliminate from hiring consideration. Doing so will save you and your team valuable time and energy, and it will prevent the poisoning of your team and its ability to nurture a communicative and collaborative environment.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
Events and Workshops
ISHI 2024 Workshops - San Antonio (September 2024)
AFQAM 2024 - Daytona Beach, Florida
True Intergity at AFQAM - Registration Page
Show Notes and Links
Traces of Doubt: The Forensics of Dr. Henry Lee (NBC)
The ASCLD LEAP Network
HR Management in the Forensic Science Laboratory (Book)
What is integrity and how does the study of ethics ensure that professionals will demonstrate integrity during the most difficult situations? The answer is that it can't. Ethics is a highly misunderstood and often misapplied field of study. In this episode, your host, John Collins, will discuss his new situational readiness workshop, True Integrity, and some important factors that predict the quality of decisions people will make when everything is on the line.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
Events and Workshops
ISHI 2024 Workshops - San Antonio (September 2024)
AFQAM 2024 - Daytona Beach, Florida
True Intergity at AFQAM - Registration Page
Job satisfaction leads to higher levels of energy, which translates into better engagement and better performance. But the factors leading to one's job satisfaction are complicated and often include personal matters that are outside the control of the laboratory. In this episode, John Collins discusses some of the key elements of job satisfaction and why the hiring of local talent should always be an option worthy of serious consideration.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
ISHI 2024 Workshops - San Antonio (September 2024)
In this episode of the Crime Lab CoachCast, John Collins, your host and author of HR Management in the Forensic Science Laboratory - A 21st Century Approach to Effective Crime Lab Leadership, discusses the importance of filling vacant leadership positions as soon as possible. He also discusses the damage caused by unnecessary delays. For those of you involved in the selection and hiring of executive forensic laboratory administrators, you won't want to miss this episode.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
References
Smith v. Arizona (SCOTUS Blog)
HR Management in the Forensic Science Laboratory (2018)
Jody Wolf is an award winning forensic laboratory veteran and former president of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors. She is one of the few forensic laboratory administrators to climb beyond the laboratory into the police command ranks. Jody is not the Chief of Staff for the Phoenix Police Department. In this episode, John speaks with Jody about her journey and love of forensic science laboratories, and what she's observed and experienced in forensic science along the way. You don't want to miss this chat with one of America's most influential forensic laboratory leaders.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
References
Video - Elevating Women in Law Enforcement - With Jody Wolf
Confidence is the blissful feeling of self-assurance that you can handle whatever people or situations you encounter in your life and career. But you can lose it and, when you do, it can leave you feeling lost, hurting, and desperate for answers. The good news is that you can get it back, and in this episode you will learn how.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
References
No references
Relationships are the raw materials from which teamwork is made. But what happens when problems arise in workplace relationships and what can be done to fix them? John Collins will share his thoughts about relationships within the forensic science environment and will also share a strategy for repairing broken relationships when they start getting in the way of your laboratory's mission.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
References
Book: The Body Keeps the Score - Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
Faith is not a subject we typically associate with science, but even scientists rely on their faith to orient themselves in this world and this life. Faith is not the same as religion and is not rooted in certainty. It is something we struggle with. John Collins speaks with his friend, colleague, and fellow coach, Kevin R. Smith, about having faith in our natural strengths, and knowning that they provide the best opportunity to function with more effectiveness in our lives and careers.
Our Season Sponsor
Visit our Friends at Promega
The International Symposium on Human Identification (2024)
References
Still Kevin - Leadership Development (Kevin R. Smith)
In today's episode of the Crime Lab Coach Cast, John discusses the most widely discussed element of personality, which is the extroversion/intoversion spectrum. But there are myths that need to be replaced with facts and healthier attitudes about our desire to socialize and communicate with others. Where do YOU fall on the spectrum, and how do you use it to your advantage?
Our Seasonal Sponsor
Promega and the International Symposium on Human Identification
References
Strength and Personality Masterclass Free Access with INVITE coupon code
Show Up Strong Build Your Authoritative Presence Through Assertive Thinking and Conflict Readiness Public Safety professionals use SAFETY coupon code for discount
John speaks with forensic science veteran, educator, and philosopher, Max Houck, to discuss some of the deeper issues facing forensic science laboratories today. Join Max and John as they tackle issues such as the relationships between laboratories and police agencies, standards, acceditation, the future of forensic science, and some interesting bits of historical fact that brought forensic science to where it is today.
Our Seasonal Sponsor
Promega and the International Symposium on Human Identification
Program References
Visit Max Houck
Forensic Science Inernational - Synergy
Jay Siegel - In Memorium
Washington Post on Max Houck's Departure
Bad things happen in all occupations, but when nightmares come true, it's vital that your team stick together to come out on the other side better than you were before. In this episode of the CoachCast, John Collins discusses the one mistake and the one fantasy that get in the way of forensic science laboratories seeking to address - and prevent - a crisis or catastrophic failure.
Our Seasonal Sponsor
Promega and the International Symposium on Human Identification
Program References
NIST 2023 Environmental Scan
Max Houck on Substack
Colorado DNA Misconduct Case
Employees can only motivate themselves, a truth that invites important questions about what both managers and employees should be prioritizing in their efforts to contribute toward a high-energy laboratory team. John Collins, "America's Crime Lab Coach," shares his tips and ideas in this next edition of the Crime Lab COACH Cast.
References
Promega - 2024 Season Sponsor
Talent is Overrated (Book)
The New Superior (Book) by John Collins
In this 3rd episode of the 2024 season, John reaches into his bag of coaching strategies to help listeners cope effectively with people having pathologically challenging personalities.
References
Promega (Season Sponsor)
Coping with Difficult People (Book by R Bramson, PhD)
John Collins speaks with Tim Kupferschmid, Chief of Laboratories for the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Tim is also the current president of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors. In this episode, Tim shares his thoughts on current events and issues facing today's forensic science laboratories, as well as the issues that will confront laboratory administrators in the near and distant future.
Special thanks to our 2024 season sponsor, Promega.
References
2020 Census of Publicly Funded Forensic Science Crime Laboratories
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner - Laboratories
DNA Gun Crimes Unit
SCOTUS - Smith v. Arizona
In this first episode of our 4th season, John Collins chats with Mark Stolorow, the former Deputy Director of the Special Programs Office at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), where he was also the Director for OSAC Affairs (Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science). The mission of OSAC is to produce consensus documentary standards and guidelines to improve quality and consistency of work in the forensic science community. Mark shares his own history and path that led him to a successful career in forensic science, and shares his thoughts about the ongoing effort to "harmonize" progress in forensic science.
References
Visit our season sponsor, Promega!
NIST Forensic Science Website
In this Crime Lab COACH Cast update, John discusses the newly released 2020 Census of Publicly Funded Forensic Science Crime Laboratories, the upcoming SCOTUS ruling in Smith v. Arizona, and strategies for dealing with artificial intelligence "cheating" when administering essay questions during the application process for new scientists.
References
Smith v. Arizona
2020 Census of Publicly Funded Forensic Crime Laboratories
Ann MacPhetridge is the Senior Manager in charge of Genetic Identity Commercialization & Marketing at Promega Corporation. Ann speaks with John Collins about the rewards and challenges of commercializing and marketing within the forensic science marketplace. She also explains the history of the ISHI meeting and the impact DNA scientists have had on the entire forensic laboratory community.
References
Visit Promega
ISHI (International Symposium on Human Identification)
DocuSeries: Innocence After Guilt
Houston DA Wants Lab to Outsources Cases
The top decisions-makers at the Wisconsin DOJ Division of Forensic Science join John Collins to discuss an innovative approach to developing and building support for case submission policies. Nicole Roehm and Jennifer Naugle explain the history of the committee, the benefits of the committee on keeping backlogs down, and what's happening nationally with regards to the establishment of forensic science advisory committees and/or regulatory commissions.
References
Evidence Submission in Wisconsin
Indi Young is an expert at teaching clients how to prevent false assumptions from causing damage to themselves and their customers. The author of 3 books, Indi speaks with John Collins about how she evaluates individuals to understand how they think, and why they think it. Perhaps it's time to stop dwelling on bias and begin thinking about mental models and how they can be leveraged to our advantage.
References
Visit Indi Young's Website
Indi Young's Book Author Page
Peter Stout is the president and director of the Houston Forensic Science Center. He and John Collins discuss the current political climate in the Houston criminal justice system, its past challenges, and some potentially game-changing blind-testing strategies being employed by Stout and his team.
References
Proceedings of the NAS (Forensic Articles Coming Soon)
Stout Turned Around Houston Lab (News)
Police Union Calls for Stout's Resignation
Backlogs at the Houston Lab (News)
The Secret Life of Crime Labs (Stout)
Forensic Papers by PNAS
After welcoming Promega as the first sponsor of the Crime Lab COACH Cast, John Collins discusses some sensitive advocacy issues related to claims that forensic science disciplines are invalid or unreliable. Are crime laboratories putting out "junk science," or is "junk activism" misportraying the reality of forensic science methods? Maybe both? You be the judge.
Sponsorship Links
Promega
International Symposium on Human Identification (ISHI)
References
Bias Bullying I
Bias Bullying II (Mental Modeling)
Junk Science vs. Junk Activism? A Decision for the Courts
Chris Fabricant
Dr. Itiel Dror
American Academy of Forensic Sciences
John Collins brings you up to speed on some more forensic controversy out of Houston, and shares a valuable interview tip for evaluating the potential of new forensic laboratory scientists to develop into effective expert witnesses. It's a busy day here at the Crime Lab COACH Cast. See you in the studio!
References
News out of Houston
Pamela Marshall is the Associate Professor and Director of the Forensic Science and Law masters program at Duquesne University. In this episode, John chats with Dr. Marshall about the state of forensic science education in the United States, and what employers in forensic science need to know about the new generation of students who will become tomorrow's workforce.
References
Duquesne University Forensic Science and Law
ASCLD LEAP Program
Aurthur Eisenberg Obituary
Kermit Channell is the Executive Director of the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory. In this conversation with Director Channell, John Collins asks about his coming retirement, his career in forensic science, the outlook for forensic labs in the next 10 to 20 years, and the priorities laboratory administrators will have as the profession continues to evolve.
References
Kermit Channell Retirement Announcement
Your host, John M. Collins, has issued a press release making an official statement on the significance of the recent federal court ruling holding Dr. Henry Lee liable for malpractice in the investigation of a 1985 homicide. John's comments are intended to put the situation, at least preliminarily, into proper context so that recent events aren't use to unfairly attack today's trustworthy, reliable forensic scientists.
References
Statement by John M. Collins (Video - 9mm)
Report by the Associated Press
Shawn Henning Case - National Registry of Exonerations
Press release by John Collins not active at the time of this podcast release. Please visit criticalvictories.com/newsroom to view John's press releases.
You are naturally wired to lead and influence in a particular way, but do you know what that way is? Do you know how your employees and colleagues are wired? If you don't, you have an amazing opportunity. In this impactful episode of the COACH Cast, John Collins discusses the workshop he facilitated at the 50th annual symposium of the American Society of Crime Laboratory directors. Listen to John as he discusses how he utilizes the Clifton Strengths assessment to help his forensic laboratory clients, and what talents and strengths are emerging as the most common across the forensic laboratory community. This is an episode you don't want to miss.
References
The New Superior (Paperback Pre-Print)
Link will be provided when Amazon pre-print is ready
DEA Release on Fentanyl and Xylazine
Random characteristics are the basis of the forensic pattern identification disciplines but, too often, examiners testify about randomness without understanding what it means or if it's even a scientifically legitimate principle. It is legitimate and this episode explains why.
References
Memphis, Tenn Crime Lab Debate
Stochastics article by John Collins
International Journal of Stochastics
What happens when a judge tries to influence or intimidate an expert witness into testifying a certain way? John will explain how you can handle this situation. John will also follow up on the previous CoachCast episode on firearm identification and its scientific underpinnings.
References
Firearm OSAC
Firearm Examiner Accuracy - Part 1
Firearm Examiner Accuracy - Part 2
In Illinois v. Rickey Winfield (15CR1406601), Judge William Hicks blocked firearm identification testimomy (Feb 2023). And, as usual, the significance of the ruling is being misinterpreted and misapplied in some of the media reporting. John Collins tells us what we need to know about this case and what we can learn from it.
References
Commentary By Radley Balko
Court Ruling in Winfield
Adina Schwartz
Association of Firearm & Toolmark Examiners
Amy Curtis Jenkins is the founding president of the National Association of Forensic Laboratory Counsel, an emerging membership organization for attorneys specializing in the legal representation of public forensic science laboratories. In this episode, John Collins chats with Amy about embedded legal counsel and the issues they address.
References
National Association of Forensic Laboratory Counsel
John Collins interviews Dr. John Morgan about his recent study exploring the impact that forensic evidence had in convictions that were later overturned.
References
Wrongful convictions and claims of false or misleading forensic evidence (Morgan)
Wrongful Convictions and Forensic Science Errors: Case Studies and Root Causes (Book)
Visit Dr. John Morgan Online (Website)
Supplanting is the cutting of a normal operating budget and replacing those funds with grants or other allocations. It is an impermissible use of federal forensic programs, but has other dangers as well.
References:
Paul Coverdell - Competitive
CFSO Funding Page
OJP Supplanting Guide Sheet
In today's episode, John Collins shares a historical perspective on why many of today's forensic scientists may be struggling in the courtroom and what laboratory administrators can do to start fixing the problem.
Recorded from Phoenix, Arizon, John Collins discusses "points of credibility" in the courtroom and the potential impact that visible tattoos and piercings can have on how expert witnesses are perceived by a jury.
In this episode of the Crime Lab COACH Cast, John Collins discusses the subject of implicit bias and explains why bias is not - and should not - be the focus of our attention.
References
- Greenwald, A. G., Banaji, M. R., & Nosek, B. A. (2015). Statistically small effects of the Implicit Association Test can have societally large effects. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 108(4), 553-561. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspa0000016
- Oswald, F. L., Mitchell, G., Blanton, H., Jaccard, J., & Tetlock, P. E. (2015). Predicting ethnic and racial discrimination: A meta-analysis of IAT criterion studies. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 108(4), 562-584. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspa0000010
- Nosek, B. A., & Smyth, F. L. (2007). A multitrait-multimethod validation of the Implicit Association Test: Implicit and explicit attitudes are related but distinct constructs. Experimental Psychology, 54(1), 14-29. https://doi.org/10.1027/1618-3169.54.1.14
- Blanton, H., Jaccard, J., González, P., & Christie, C. (2006). Decoding the Implicit Association Test: Implications for criterion prediction. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 42(2), 192-212. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jesp.2005.04.004
- Lane, K. A., Banaji, M. R., Nosek, B. A., & Greenwald, A. G. (2007). Understanding and using the Implicit Association Test: IV. What we know (so far). In B. Wittenbrink & N. Schwarz (Eds.), Implicit measures of attitudes: Procedures and controversies (pp. 59-102). Guilford Press.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of studies and reviews related to IATs, and there may be other studies with different findings or perspectives on this topic.
Ahead of the 50 annual symposium of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors, John Collins reflects on an unusual confluence of events that created an opportunity for him and his laboratory to go beyond the confines of forensic science to meet an urgent need that no one could have predicted.
In this episode of the Crime Lab COACH Cast, John Collins speaks with Matthew Gamette, the Director of the Idaho State Police Forensic Laboratory System and Chair of the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations. Matthew joins John to discuss the establishment of the National Technology Validation and Implementation Collaborative (NTVIC) and the gamechanging impact it will likely have on how new methods and technologies are studied and launched in America's forensic science laboratories.
References
Forensic Science International - Synergy Article https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589871X23000049
The 2023 calendar year is underway. Recording from downtown Baton Rouge near the site of this week's Advanced Expert Witnessing workshop, John shares his perspective on the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence and its inevitable impact on forensic science and the enterprise of expert witnessing. You thought attorneys were powerful in the courtroom before? We haven't seen anything like this before.
References
Critical Victories Forensic Programs
Open AI - ChatGPT
In this special holiday episode of The Crime Lab COACH Cast, John Collins has some things he'd like you to think about as you wind down your 2022 and look forward to a healthy and productive 2023.
The Department of Justice announced its forensic science funding initiatives for the coming year. In this episode, we discuss the lack of funding and political support for nonDNA disciplines and the problems it causes for America' crime laboratories.
Program References
DOJ Announcement
Debbie Smith Act
Paul Coverdell Program
IACP Forensics Committee
In this episode, John Collins seeks to inform a newer generation of forensic science professionals about the Innocence Network and the post-conviction litigation enterprise.
Program References
Crime Lab Report (By John Collins, 2019)
Gallup on Public Death Penalty Opinion
Dr. Jon Gould on Erroneous Convictions
Gary Dotson
Ted Bundy
Recorded from the site of the 33rd International Symposium on Human Identification in Washington, DC, John Collins discusses the growing concern of laboratory decision-makers about the skills of scientists to perform effectively on the witness stand. Are we developing our forensic scientists the right way, and are we emphasizing expert witnessing skills in our training programs? John Collins, author of 50 Situations Awaiting Every Forensic Scientist, shares his thoughts.
In today's show, John discusses the launch of The New Superior leadership coaching program, while also sharing his own experience of hiring coaches and consultants to help him in his business endeavors.
Program References
The New Superior Coaching Program
Annie Dookhan Crime Lab Scandal
FBI Uniform Crime Reports
In this week's show, John discusses the recent handwriting study published by the FBI Laboratory, and announces the creation of The New Superior Executive Coaching Program based on his book, The New Superior: A Better Way to Be the One in Charge.
Program References:
The New Superior - Book Home Page
The New Superior Executive Coaching Program
FBI Laboratory Release on Handwriting Study
Scientific American report on FBI Handwriting Study
Alec Baldwin movie set shooting
New Orleans Crime Laboratory Troubles
About: In this episode of The Crime Lab COACH Cast, John explains the phases that individuals pass through during their careers, and the age at which knowledge and ways of thinking make a dramatic shift. This shift must be understood if forensic science laboratories are to fully leverage the talent of older employees and the contributions that only they can provide.
Episode References:
Podcast: Critical Victories on Criticism, Chaos, and Control
Article: Gallup on Retirement Trends
Book: Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks
Book: The New Superior
Bitterness and resentments can build up over time. John Collins explains factors that lead to career-toxifying emotions.
Listen to John Collins as he explains the two types of interpersonal communication styles, and the advantages and disadvantages associated with both.
The conversation about crime lab independence often ignores a fundemental fact about forensic science - which is that there is no such thing as independence.
Scientists and other technically capable professionals struggle with organizational culture, but why? In this episode of the Crime Lab COACH Cast, John Collins shares a different way to think about culture and how to be a scientist that contributes to a healthy work enviornment in your laboratory.
There is no such thing as junk science. There is only science that's applied poorly. In this episode of the Crime Lab COACH Cast, John Collings explains why the difference is important.
John podcasts from the site of the 2022 ASCLD Symposium in Reno, Nevada. Today's Coach's Briefing is about putting your leadership process above your leadership personality.
This week, John discusses a new discipline section created within the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, and he tackles the frustrating and challenging problem of workplace favoritism, the damage it causes, and how to deal with it.
Do you agree that forensic science services are becoming "federalized?" Also, in today's coach's briefing, John shares some tips for avoiding decision fatigue, a very real and dangerous problem in today's hecktic societies and workplaces.
In today's episode, John shares news about the development of a new local laboratory in New Orleans, as well as an attempt to separate a laboratory in Austin, Texas from it's police agency.
In the news, former Innocence Project Board Director, Dr. Eric Lander, resigns from the Biden Administration after accusations of bullying; in the Coach's Briefing, John explains strength-based coaching and its applications to teamwork and leadership.
Respecting the power of expertise and its impact on our criminal justice system. Join John M. Collins for another edition of the Crime Lab COACH Cast.
Politics in forensic science; the truth about the causes of erroneous convictions; and troubles at the D.C. forensic laboratory.
Because forensic laboratory scientists and their leaders have no formal constitutional authority, they must be effective at engaging with officials who do, even in difficult circumstances. Conflict management skills should be a part of every forensic scientist's continuing education.
The Oakland County Sheriff's Office in Pontiac, Michigan is heading the investigation into the school shooting at Oxford High School. In this episode we discuss what labs can do to be better prepared for a mass fatality, with the hopes that it never happens.
In this week's episode, John talks about journalistic challenges in North Carolina while advocating for forensic scientists to commit themselves to professionalism and personal effectiveness.
John wraps up his Advanced Expert Witnessing workshop and shares thoughts on proposed changes to Rule 702 of the Federal Rules of Evidence. For more information, and to receive our program notes, please visit www.forensicscienceexecutive.org
In this week's coach cast, John provides some thoughts and a specific strategy for ensuring that forensic scientists are more likely to excel at expert witnessing.
For more information, please visit www.forensicscienceexecutive.org.
In this week's episode of the Crime Lab Coach Cast, John shares his thoughts on getting ready for the upcoming New Year by doing your planning, positioning, and reflecting now instead of waiting.
For more information, please visit forensicscienceexecutive.org.
In this week's episode, John discusses ASCLD's recent move to increase dues and why many forensic science organizations are under-pricing their value.
For more information, please visit www.forensicscienceexecutive.org
People are at their best when they are 100% committed to what they're doing. John shares his own experience of struggling to stay focused on a core set of responsibilities and explains why it was worth it.
For more information, visit www.forensicscienceexecutive.org
Recorded on October 18, 2021. John Collins discusses two news stories on expert witnessing and calls for more critical thinking in forensic science.
For more information please visit www.forensicscienceexecutive.org.
With more news and events in forensic science, John discusses the specialization of expertise and some of the adverse effects it can have on laboratories and their scientists.
For more information please visit www.forensicscienceexecutive.org.
The FBI has released its 2020 Annual Uniform Crime Report, showing a spike in murders that will continue impact forensic science laboratories for the foreseeable future.
For more information, please visit www.forensicscienceexecutive.org.
John Collins shares news and announcements from the forensic laboratory sciences and offers his views on the importance of interagency collaboration in ensuring public safety.
For more information, please visit www.forensicscienceexecutive.org.
Executive coach John Collins records this first episode of the Crime Lab Coach Cast from the 32nd ISHI in Orlando, Florida.