Shows
Crime and the Courtroom#106: High-Profile, High Pressure: The Nancy Guthrie InvestigationIn this episode of Crime and the Courtroom, John Collins examines the ongoing abduction investigation of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of Today Show host Savannah Guthrie. Rather than rehashing timelines already covered extensively in national media, John focuses on what the case reveals about high-profile investigations — the resources they mobilize, the pressure they generate, and the complex realities that shape their trajectory. The episode explores the scale of the law enforcement response, including federal involvement and advanced forensic tools, while thoughtfully addressing the broader conversation about disparities in media attention among missing-person cases. John explains why high vi...
2026-02-1627 minCrime and the Courtroom#105: Vegas Concierge: Sex Trafficking, Hip Hop, and Corruption in America - with Brian JosephHost John Collins sits down with award-winning investigative journalist Brian Joseph to discuss his provocative new book, Vegas Concierge: Sex Trafficking, Hip Hop, and Corruption in America. The conversation explores the complex realities of sex trafficking through the lens of Brian's reporting and his in-depth investigation into the story of hip-hop music producer Molly Maul. Brian shares insights from his career as a freelance reporter and the challenges he faced bringing this book to market, including the publishing industry's reluctance to engage with difficult—but necessary—topics. Together, John and Brian examine how societal stereotypes, entertainment norms, and...
2026-02-0243 minCrime and the Courtroom#104: What is "Junk Science" and do Bite Marks Fit the Label?In this solo episode of Crime and the Courtroom, host John Collins kicks off the podcast's sixth season with personal updates, professional milestones, and critical reflections on the state of forensic science in the justice system. Collins shares the remarkable success of his recent cochlear implant surgery, which restored significant hearing from deafness caused by a decades-old firearm accident. The procedure has enhanced his ability to engage with clients and audiences, just in time for a busy season of national speaking engagements—including the ASCLD Symposium in Grand Rapids and a keynote address at the 2026 Association of Firearm and To...
2026-01-191h 13Crime and the Courtroom#103: Are we standardizing the soul out of forensic science?In this final episode of the 2025 season of Crime and the Courtroom, host John Collins takes a candid and uncompromising look at a growing challenge within the forensic science community: the accelerating push toward standardization. While standards have long played a vital role in improving consistency and strengthening laboratory management, Collins argues that the pendulum may now be swinging too far. Drawing on decades of experience as a forensic scientist, laboratory director, and professional coach, he examines how overly rigid standardization can unintentionally suppress creativity, erode professional judgment, and undermine the very expertise that forensic science depends on.
2025-11-1750 minCrime and the Courtroom#102: An Accident in the Forensic Lab and Lessons LearnedIn this episode, John tells the full story about his battle with hearing loss, how it started, and what steps are now being taken to give him back his hearing. It is a story involving a serious accident in a forensic laboratory many years ago - sometime around 1995 - and one that provides some important lessons about safety, leadership, and personal accountability in the workplace. Season: 5 Episode: 102 Duration: 47:29 YOUTUBE CHANNELS Main Podcast Channel Highlights Channel FROM OUR SPONSOR Learn About the Innovators at Promega International Symposium on Huma...
2025-10-2847 minCrime and the Courtroom#101: Command Coaching at the Point of PromotionAs we near the end of our 5th season, John Collins first takes a moment to discuss his upcoming surgery and his battle with hearing loss following an accident that occurred in a laboratory where he worked while he was in his early 20s. He then discusses "command coaching," which is an application of coaching at the initial points of promotion for sworn law enforcement commanders, and how the development of police leaders MUST prioritize high-resolution self-awareness as a key factor in future success. In order to earn the trust and respect of team members, sworn commanders must know...
2025-10-2149 minCrime and the Courtroom#100: "Wing Violence" and the Murder of Charlie KirkIn the 100th episode of Crime and the Courtroom, host John Collins pauses the celebration to examine the shooting death of Charlie Kirk in Utah and what it reveals about public safety, due process, and the health of civic life. Drawing on his experience in the Atlanta Olympic bombing investigation, Collins unpacks how early speculation and "wing violence" narratives can distort reality, feed polarization, and obscure root causes. He introduces the "event horizon" metaphor—the point where isolation, echo chambers, and performative media pull vulnerable people past reason—and argues that rigorous, respectful debate is a safeguard, not a thre...
2025-09-1538 minCrime and the Courtroom#99: How Much Control Should Judges Have Over the Testimony of Expert Witnesses?Judges hold tremendous power in the American criminal justice system, and possibly more power than we realize. In this episode of Crime and the Courtroom, John Collins shares his thoughts about a trend being encountered by expert witnesses whose testimony is being limited or controlled by judges. In some cases, the identification of latent prints or firearms is being rejected, and judges are instead instructing expert witnesses on what they can or cannot say. Is this even permissible? John also discusses what he describes as "the nuclear option," a tactic that judges could adopt, if they chose to, that...
2025-09-021h 09Crime and the Courtroom#98: The ISHI Forensic Leadership Alliance: Looking Ahead to the 2025 SymposiumIn this episode of Crime and the Courtroom, host John Collins is joined by colleagues Dr. Pamela Marshall, Julie Sikorsky, and Dr. Ray Wickenheiser to discuss their ongoing collaboration, the Forensic Leadership Alliance. The group reflects on their shared work since 2020 in providing leadership development opportunities for forensic scientists, with a focus on coaching, mentorship, and team empowerment. The conversation covers key leadership challenges facing forensic laboratories, including funding instability, cultural dynamics, and professional development. The episode also includes planning updates for their upcoming November workshop at the ISHI 2025 Symposium in Palm Beach, where they will lead sessions on...
2025-08-191h 09Crime and the Courtroom#97: Police Culture, Federal Funds, and Forensic Science LaboratoriesJohn Collins examines the growing challenges facing U.S. forensic science laboratories as federal funding programs come under political pressure in Washington. Drawing on decades of experience as a former laboratory administrator and current leadership coach, Collins explores how dependence on federal grants has affected laboratory budgets, priorities, and culture—particularly in agencies where labs are managed by police commanders. He outlines the risks of "supplanting," the importance of independent budget planning, and offers five practical recommendations for law enforcement leaders to better support their forensic operations. This candid discussion provides valuable insight for scientists, administrators, policymakers, and anyone in...
2025-08-0441 minCrime and the Courtroom#96: Cyber Hell? A Conversation with Tom Arnold In this episode of Crime and the Courtroom, host John Collins speaks with Tom Arnold, a leading expert in digital evidence and cyber crime investigation. Mr. Arnold has led major breach investigations involving thousands of servers and has advised agencies including the U.S. Secret Service. He currently teaches at San Jose State University and the University of Nevada Las Vegas, where he helps develop academic programs in digital forensics and cybersecurity. In addition to his technical work, Tom recently authored The Digital Detective: First Intervention, a novel designed to teach cybersecurity principles to young readers. This conversation covers...
2025-07-2155 minCrime and the Courtroom#95: The Wrongful Conviction of Forensic Science and the Attack on Firearm IdentificationIn this episode, John Collins provides a thought-provoking and direct follow-up to episode #94, which covered the Oregon appellate court ruling in State v. Adams. In Adams, the court rejected the science of firearm identification and reversed the conviction. John explains the recent historical forces that have made forensic science a target of criminal justice reform activists, while providing encouragement to forensic practitioners in maintaining their professionalism and credibility as expert witnesses. He also calls out what he describes as "courtroom science activists" who've made it a professional mission to eliminate credible, legitimate forensic methods from America's courtrooms. In doing...
2025-07-071h 05Crime and the Courtroom#94: Firearm Testimony Blocked by Oregon Appellate Court - A Call to ActionSPECIAL EPISODE: In a June 2025 decision, the Oregon Court of Appeals delivered a controversial ruling on forensic evidence admissibility in State v. Adams, a case involving a 2018 shooting in Portland. The ruling has been interpreted and reported as a categorical rejection of the method of linking spent shell casings to a particular firearm—commonly used for decades. The court argued that the State failed to establish the scientific validity of the method under Oregon's rules of evidence. In this special edition of Crime and the Courtroom, John Collins shares his thoughts on the ruling, how important it is, and...
2025-06-2529 minCrime and the Courtroom#93: The Highly Impressive Expert Witness - Training Priorities and StrategiesIn 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 Col...
2025-06-1648 minCrime and the Courtroom#92: Evaluating Expertise in an Era of Compromised Integrity - A Coaching SessionIn 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 E...
2025-06-0242 minCrime and the Courtroom#91: Psychopaths and Copycats - A Conversation with Dr. Jacqueline HelfgottJacqueline 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 Inn...
2025-05-1956 minCrime and the Courtroom#90: A Conversation with Jeff Asher on Crime Data, Trends, and Reporting ChallengesJohn 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 OU...
2025-05-0532 minCrime and the Courtroom#89: Dr. Nancy La Vigne - A Conversation with the Dean of Rutgers' School of Criminal JusticeNancy 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. ...
2025-04-2145 minCrime and the Courtroom#88: Preventing Catastrophic Misconduct in Accredited Forensic Science Laboratories (Part 2 of 2)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...
2025-04-071h 00Crime and the Courtroom#87: When Catastrophic Misconduct Happens in a Forensic Science Laboratory (Part 1 of 2)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 Conv...
2025-03-1735 minCrime and the Courtroom#86: Caitlin Burchill, Investigative Reporter with NBC ConnecticutCaitlin 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 ...
2025-03-0340 minCrime and the Courtroom85# Sarah Chu on Forensic Evidence and Post-Conviction AdvocacyDr. 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...
2025-02-1759 minCrime and the Courtroom#84: Forensics - A Different Kind of Science, and Here's WhyIn 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. Seas...
2025-02-0343 minCrime and the Courtroom#83: Remembering a Forensic Science Pioneer - John MurdockThe 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 Bia...
2025-01-2826 minCrime and the Courtroom#82: One Officer, One Bullet, and Two Critical Lessons on Police CultureIn 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...
2025-01-2034 minCrime and the Courtroom#78: CoachCast Update | How to Start Thinking StrategicallyJohn 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...
2024-12-0211 minCrime and the Courtroom#77: It's Strategy Season! | Conflicts of Interest in Outside EmploymentWe 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...
2024-11-1846 minCrime and the Courtroom#59: Employee Motivation and the Origins of EnthusiasmEmployees 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
2024-03-0445 minCrime and the Courtroom#47: Dr. Henry Lee on Trial - Part 1Your 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...
2023-07-2411 minCrime and the Courtroom#46: How to Build Your Natural Style for Leading and InfluencingYou 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...
2023-07-171h 03Crime and the Courtroom#41: Forensic Evidence in Overturned Convictions w/ Dr. John MorganJohn 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)
2023-05-011h 00Crime and the Courtroom#37: The Truth About Implicit BiasIn 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 P...
2023-03-0623 minCrime and the Courtroom#36: You Can Be More Than a Forensic LabAhead 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.
2023-02-2731 min
The New Superior#67: A Happiness Conversation with Regina CareyJohn Collins speaks with Regina Carey, a coach, author, and teacher specializing in helping people overcome "invisible disabilities" to live the life they really want. In this episode, John and Regina discuss the subject of happiness, reflecting on how to produce more of it in our lives while, at the same time, understanding that it shouldn't be our ultimate goal. Learn more about Regina and her work at https://reginacarey.com.
2023-02-2454 minCrime and the Courtroom#35: Matthew Gamette on the New Validation CollaborativeIn 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
2023-02-1333 minThe New Superior#66: Culture and the Alec Baldwin IncidentAlec Baldwin has now been charged in the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. In this episode of Critical Victories, John Collins shares his perspective on the real reason why tragedy struck a movie set on that fateful day in October 2021.
2023-02-0820 minThe New Superior#65: The #1 Mistake of Newly Promoted ManagersIndividuals who are newly hired into their first management position or promoted into a position of higher responsibility and authority face daunting challenges as they orient themselves to the demands of the job. In this episode, John Collins, your host and Executive Trust Coach, explains what he argues is the #1 mistake that professionals make when taking on new management responsibilities.
2023-01-2513 minCrime and the Courtroom#33: Special Holiday MessageIn 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.
2022-12-1432 minCrime and the Courtroom#31: Don't Fear the Innocence ProjectIn 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
2022-11-1448 minCrime and the Courtroom#30: Are We Developing Expert Witnesses the Right Way?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.
2022-11-0126 minThe New Superior#61: Queen Elizabeth's Lesson to Us AllThis week, as the world says goodbye to Britain's longest-serving monarch, and the longest serving female head-of-state in recorded history, John Collins shares a perspective about "royalty" and what it really means. In the final analysis, this is both the legacy and lesson that Queen Elizabeth II left us to consider. Program References The New Superior - A Better Way to Be the One in Charge
2022-09-2126 minThe New Superior#29: High-Stakes Change - Act Like You Expected ItHigh-Stakes change challenges the psych of individuals and the resolve of teams. John Collins explains how some of us are naturally wired to accommodate change while some of us are not. Program References USA Today - Diversity in Forensic Science Detroit News - Michigan State Police THC testing problem
2022-09-1246 minThe New Superior#60: A Firearms Tutorial and the Alec Baldwin IncidentJohn Collins draws on his long and storied career in forensic science to give a brief lesson on firearms. His comments are intended for those who want a basic understanding of firearms to help shape any constitutional or public-policy positions they with to support or promote. If you don't know much about guns but wish you knew enough to be conversant, this episode is for you. John also discusses the recent FBI testing conducted on the firearm used by Alec Baldwin during the unintentional death of a movie cinematographer.
2022-08-1751 minThe New Superior0059: They'll Never LIV it DownThe creation of a Saudi-backed golf tour shocked the normally tranquile world of professional golf. As we are witnessing, there can be a stark difference between economic and moral legitimacy. John Collins discusses the interesting public relations issues arising for the so-called LIV Tour and a fundamental truth about public trust that LIV players didn't anticipate would rise up to greet them in the harshest of ways. Show References Phil Mickelson’s big gambles are the subject of a new biography What Is LIV Golf? It Depends Whom You Ask. 9/11 Survivors, Fa...
2022-08-0327 minCrime and the Courtroom#26: Chronic BitternessBitterness and resentments can build up over time. John Collins explains factors that lead to career-toxifying emotions.
2022-07-1140 minCrime and the Courtroom#25: Are Scientists Socially Awkward?Listen to John Collins as he explains the two types of interpersonal communication styles, and the advantages and disadvantages associated with both.
2022-06-2749 minCrime and the Courtroom#23: Culture is a VerbScientists 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.
2022-05-2334 minThe New Superior0056: Are You a Thinker?In this first exploration of Gallup's Strength Coaching model, John Collins discusses the power and risks of being a strategic thinker. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in people, teams, and organizations in positions of public trust. Critical Victories is released on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 8AM wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2022-04-2035 min
Crime and the Courtroom#16: The Power of ExpertiseRespecting 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.
2022-02-1440 min
The New Superior0049 - Kyle Rittenhouse and the Child ProblemOur criminal justice system has proven to be ineffective in accommodating the nuances of child development. Kyle Rittenhouse's trial highlights why police and prosecutors need to modernize their understanding of adolescence. John Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in public safety. Critical Victories is released Wednesdays at 8am wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com
2021-11-2425 min
The New Superior0048 - Who Cares About Public Safety?Effective leadership in public safety would seem to involve the setting of specific goals, but it doesn't. The result is a lack of direction and focus on achieving the kind of safety that every community deserves. John M Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in public safety. Critical Victories is released Wednesdays at 8AM wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-11-1728 min
The New Superior0047 - The Great ResignationPerception may not be reality when it comes to understanding why the pandemic continues to nudge professionals from their current positions. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in public safety. Critical Victories is released Wednesdays at 8AM wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-11-1019 min
The New Superior00046 - Billionaires and Public SafetyA local ballot measure in Minneapolis seeks to erase the current policing model and replace it with a larger department of public safety. The initiative is supported by billionaire funding, which deserves our attention because it's capable of dramatic change that affects our quality of life. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in public safety and public trust. Critical Victories is released Wednesdays at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-11-0323 min
The New Superior0045 - Paralyzed by Options (and a new professional focus)John shares how he resolved a problem common to many businesses and professionals, and what it means for the Critical Victories webcast. John M. Collins is an executive coach specializing in public safety leadership and administration. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-10-2720 min
The New Superior0044 - The Inner City CrumbleLast week, a roadway in Detroit buckled to form a large mound of pavement that rose several feet above ground. The incident was just another infrastructure failure to plaque Michigan this year. John discusses the leadership implications for Michigan and the rest of the country. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-09-2220 min
The New Superior0043 - Why Competent Leadership is RareIn this special on-the-road edition of Critical Victories recorded in Chicago, John Collins explains how expert witnessing skills are a necessary ingredient to effective leadership. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-09-0831 min
The New Superior0042 - Jack Morris, Diversity, and Social IntelligenceTo be intelligent in today's political and social environments means that you extend respect and courtesy to everyone with whom you interact in your personal and professional life. But we continue to learn that many people - even people in high positions of influence, have a long way to go before they can call themselves socially intelligent. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn m...
2021-09-0131 min
The New Superior0041 - Controlling PersonalitiesControlling personalities damage relationships and the effectiveness of teams. In this episode, we explore the impact of excessive control and how it can be corrected. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-08-2540 min
The New Superior0040 - The Time Management Strategy You Never Heard OfTime management is a constant struggle for busy professionals, especially those in high-pressure, high-stakes environments - but there's a strategy you've probably never heard of that can help. Daily Dones Template: https://app.box.com/s/sfy6fd2g88jyie3s54cvq6u6ljpwegml John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-08-1131 min
The New Superior0039 - Make the Olympics Special AgainThe ratings reports for the Tokyo Olympics suggest that viewers have better things they'd rather do with their time. So what are the Olympics leaders doing - and what can they do - to make the Olympics special again? John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-08-0432 min
The New Superior0038 - Remembering the 1996 Olympic BombingDuring the early morning hours of July 27, 1996, a bomb exploded at Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta, sparking one of the largest manhunts in human history. John Collins remembers what happened and the lessons that still apply today. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-07-2850 min
The New Superior0037 - When the Worst Employees Don't Realize They've QuitConstructive discharge is when an employer behaves in a way that makes it impossible for a reasonable employee to remain employed. But what happens when a reasonable EMPLOYER has no choice but to believe that the employee no longer wishes to remain employed? Find out in this week's episode! John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.c...
2021-07-2119 min
The New Superior0036 - The Cost and Value of Graduate DegreesIncreased scrutiny is being placed on graduate degrees and the impact they have on students. John Collins discusses both the importance of graduate education and the potential risks associated with it. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-07-1420 min
The New Superior0035 - Hammers, Guns, Conflict, and FreedomTwo recent news stories underscore the importance of de-escalation strategies in the resolution of high-stakes conflicts and the risk of inflaming existing tensions. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-07-0733 min
The New Superior0034 - What Happened to Commitments?High school athletes seem to commit, then decommit, from university sports teams. Do commitments matter anymore? Yes, the do, and we'll explain why. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-06-3024 min
The New Superior0033 - The Pandemic Pivot PointExperts are predicting a massive wave of voluntary job departures as employees look to find better organizations to which they can commit. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-06-2323 min
The New Superior0032 - The Forensics Behind 9/11, 20 Years LaterJohn Collins explains how the investigation into the events of 9/11 relied on new methods for handling large volumes of forensic evidence. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-06-1626 min
The New Superior0031 - It's Worse Than RacismAsian and Jewish Americans are the most recent targets of harassing and violent behaviors. John Collins explains why it's more than just racism. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-06-0924 min
The New Superior0030 - 6 Keys to Late-Career RelevanceThe average age of employees in the workforce is steadily climbing. Instead of older age undercutting the value of professionals in the later stages of their careers, attention should be paid to strategies that make them more valuable than ever! John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-05-2624 min
The New Superior0029 - When Federal Feet Step on State ToesDr. Rochelle Walensky and the CDC face harsh criticisms for how the public health agency announced modifications to its existing COVID mitigation guidelines. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-05-1924 min
The New Superior0028 - Mental Illness in Positions of Public TrustThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recently estimated that some 40% of us are struggling with mental health issues due to the pandemic. It could be you, a friend or family member, or a member of your team or organization. Here's a way you can approach it with more skill. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, pl...
2021-05-1229 min
The New Superior0027 - Legitimacy of Nations and Their LeadersCan democracies compete with autocracies in the 21st century? Yes they can, and John explains why in this important episode following President Biden's first address to a joint session of congress. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of high public trust. The Critical Victories webcast is released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-05-0525 min
The New Superior0026 - When Executives Lose Touch with CustomersAs bureaucracies grow, executive decision-makers can become distanced from the customers they're supposed to serve. And if those executives have a knack for distrusting or micromanaging their teams, we'll see some all-too-common symptoms of organizational dysfunction. Critical Victories is hosted by John M. Collins, an executive leadership coach specializing in teams and professionals in positions of public trust. New episodes are released each Wednesday at 8AM on YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-04-2821 min
The New Superior0025 - Why Women Are Better LeadersAs women continue to demonstrate their effectiveness in leading teams, data suggest that men are falling behind. John Collins shares his perspectives on what accounts for the differences. The Critical Victories webcast aires each Wednesday at 8am. For more information please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-04-2122 min
The New Superior0024 - Teleprompters Cause COVID Infections?Leaders: Don't expect people to sacrifice their quality of life if you can't inspire them to do so. Critical Victories is hosted by John Collins, an executive leadership coach specializing in working with professionals in positions of public trust. This weekly webcast is published every Wednesday at 8:00 AM at YouTube or wherever stream your favorite podcasts. Please visit www.criticalvictories.com for more information.
2021-04-1428 min
The New Superior0023 - Overcoming Chronic DefensivenessJohn explains why the problem of chronic defensiveness is so common and catastrophic, and what you or your team can do to fix it. John Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in working with professionals in positions of public trust. Our webcast is recorded and published each Wednesday at 8am on YouTube, or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. For more information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-04-0726 min
The New Superior0022 - When Experts Fail to ConvinceIt seems everywhere you turn these days there's an expert telling you what you should or shouldn't be doing. Human beings can only handle so much authority at a time. And when we've hit our limits, we rebel. The Critical Victories webcast is hosted by John Collins, an executive leadership coach specializing in working with professionals in positions of public trust. For more information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-03-2927 min
The New Superior0021 - Gun Violence and Mass ShootingsJohn Collins shares his perspectives as a former forensic firearm examiner on why these shootings happen and how they can be dealt with. Join your public trust coach, John Collins, every Wednesday morning at 8am for the Critical Victories webcast. For more information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-03-2429 min
The New Superior0020 - Universities Must Prepare Students for Professional LifeChallenges at American universities were apparent long before COVID-19 came along. As academia reinvents itself in the wake of the pandemic, it needs to return its focus to preparing students for the rigors of professional life. Join your public trust coach, John Collins, every Wednesday morning at 8am for the Critical Victories webcast. For more information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-03-1723 min
The New Superior0019 - A Decision Point in TexasGovernor Greg Abbot's decision to bring life back to normal in the Lone Star State takes effect today. It was a high-stakes decision with high-stakes consequences. Join your public trust coach, John Collins, every Wednesday morning at 8am for the Critical Victories webcast. For more information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-03-1023 min
The New Superior0018 - Forensic Perspective on Woods and CuomoProfessional golfer Tiger Woods and the governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, are in the news for very unpleasant but very different reasons. Critical Victories, hosted by John M. Collins, is released every Wednesday morning at 8am. Please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-03-0325 min
The New Superior0017 - The Secret to Leading Multiple GenerationsBBC reports that Gen Z has announced itself as the rightful owner of modern style and fashion. But the challenges of multigenerational teams remain. John shares the secret for managing young people and maintaining intergenerational harmony in your organization. John Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in working with professionals in positions of high public trust. Watch or listen to John each Wednesday morning at 8am here at YouTube or wherever you download your favorite podcasts. To learn more, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-02-2431 min
The New Superior0016 - If it's Important, Give it a NameThe weather channel made a controversial decision a few years ago to start naming winter storms. As one rages across the U.S. this week, John encourages leaders to do what the Weather Channel did - give your set of most important priorities a name that people can talk about with more ease. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specializing in working with professionals in positions of public trust. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-02-1734 min
The New Superior0015 - Journalism and How to Talk with ReportersThree leadership tips for interacting competently with the press. But first, John talks about some things happening in the news that reveal some of the barriers that are preventing the practice of responsible journalism. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specialized at work with professionals in positions of public trust. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-02-1039 min
The New Superior0014 - The One Elusive High-Octane Leadership TraitThe former head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, Jimmy Johnson, gave some simple words of advice to the Jackson Jaguars' new head coach, Urban Meyer. In this episode, John shares with you the words of advice he didn't give, and why they can be the game changing leadership trait that turns average teams into unstoppable teams. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specialized at working with professionals in positions of public trust. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com
2021-02-0314 min
The New Superior0013 - Integrity of an AdministrationAs a country, we inaugurated our 46th president last week, taking in heartwarming messages about unity, mutual understanding, and listening to one another. But now the work begins, and if President Biden wants an administration with integrity and the ability to earn and retain trust, here's what he has to do. John M. Collins is an executive leadership coach specialized at working with professionals in positions of public trust. To learn more about John and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com
2021-01-2733 min
The New Superior0012 - Political Parties and the Public TrustFollowing a year when the two major political parties seemed to clash on every major front - even matters of life and death, recent events may signal a coming and welcomed end to our country being ruled by partisan ideologues rather than the people we elect to represent us. It’s Webcast Wednesday - I’m John Collins, your Public Trust Coach….this is Critical Victories. To learn more, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-01-2023 min
The New Superior0011 - Capitol Siege by Life's 'Opt-Outs'Solemn legislative proceedings at the U.S. Capitol were disrupted by an angry mob of invaders who share something in common - and it isn't support for Donald Trump. For more information about John Collins at his coaching and consulting practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-01-1327 min
The New Superior0010 - Is Strategic Planning Really Dead?As we begin the new year, strategic planning is on the minds of many corporate and public leaders. John explains why there's more to strategy than planning. For more information about John M. Collins and his executive coaching and facilitation practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2021-01-0628 min
The New Superior0009 - Forensic Analysis of Nashville BombingJohn Collins draws on his own experience of being in the middle of a major bombing investigation to describe what's happening in Nashville following the Christmas Day explosion. For more information about John Collins and his practice, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2020-12-3026 min
The New Superior0008 - Defund the PoliceThe Defund the Police movement was never about defunding the police. Here's what's happening inside American police agencies and why they need to be fixed. For more information about John M. Collins and our executive leadership programs, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2020-12-2329 min
The New Superior0007 - The Fauci EffectDr. Anthony Fauci has been credited with a sudden surge in medical school enrollments - it's called the Fauci Effect. But as John Collins explains, Fauci had another remarkable effect that's not being talked about, and it may have cost Donald Trump the 2020 election. To learn more about John M. Collins and our executive leadership programs, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2020-12-1625 min
The New Superior0006 - The 'Autism Effect' on COVID-19 VaccinesFor years parents of children with autism spectrum disorders were led to believe that their children were damaged by dirty vaccines. Vaccine phobias are still out there, and it's possible they could impact the distribution and administration of COVID-19 vaccines. John explains the fraud and unchecked activism that led to public fears about vaccinations, and the damage they caused. For more information about John Collins and his executive coaching and leadership facilitation, please visit www.criticalvictories.com Program Notes and References https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-03334-w https://en.wikipedia...
2020-12-0920 min
The New Superior0005 - Forensic Organizational Analysis and The WHOThe World Health Organization announced that it is investigating the origins of the SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus. John explains how we can use forensic organizational methods to assess the WHO's ability to conduct a reliable investigation. To learn more about John M. Collins and our executive leadership programs, please visit www.criticalvictories.com
2020-12-0234 min
The New Superior0004 - Leadership DyingJohn Collins takes off the gloves and exposes what happens when persons with leadership responsibilities don't have a backbone. John also looks at the sex abuse claims against the Boy Scouts, as well as accusations that the Kentucky State Police encouraged the use of violence in the training of its troopers. To learn more about John M. Collins and our executive leadership programs, please visit www.criticalvictories.com Program Note: The Paul W. Smith podcast from December 2019 is no longer active.
2020-11-2340 min
The New Superior0003 - Think Twice About Following ScienceIn this episode, high-stakes leadership expert, John M. Collins, shares a personal story from his illustrious forensic science career - one that taught him a valuable lesson about the strengths and weaknesses of science. To learn more about John M. Collins and our executive leadership programs, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2020-11-1822 min
The New Superior0002 - Leadership, Elections, and Margins of ErrorJoe Biden is projected to be the 46th president of the United States, but why was the margin of victory so tight? It's likely that our current culture of journalism is making it harder for candidates to distinguish themselves. To learn more about John M. Collins at our executive leadership programs, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.
2020-11-0925 min
The New Superior0001 - Welcome to Critical Victories!John M. Collins is your host and current events coach for this one-of-kind webcast that explores current events for the purpose of finding key lessons on life and leadership in our modern world. In this brief introductory episode, John introduces himself and the Critical Victories webcast.
2020-11-0902 min
Genuinely Quirky Things2. Mr. John-Michael Collins / Introductions (Part 2 of 2)Episode two already? Sweet! These minutes here are the second half of general introductions including, but not limited too…My family and pursuits as an actorOur first topic to start things out!“To when I drove on frozen brakes”DISCLOSURE: GOING ON TANGENTS MAY OR MAY NOT BE INVOLVED, THIS SHOW IS CONVERSATIONALLY TRUE TO HOW I SPEAK.Please consider sending any comments or feedback you have through the contact page of my website. Lastly, go check out Cinema-Sonic.com!YOU ARE SUPER AWESOME, ENJOY!
2020-04-3019 minGenuinely Quirky Things1. Mr. John-Michael Collins / Introductions (Part 1 of 2)Episode one, alright! During these next few minutes you will get a synopsis of who I am and what this is. A personal tool for thoughtful exploration which includes the following topics…Where I grew upA few things which shaped me such as…Peer mentoring, mascotting, coffee, friends from college, Taiwan, first jobs, Jesus, Albania, road trip, barista, youth leader, Israel, the twin cities, Seattle, and actor…Here you will find the blog posts I mention about the roadtrip:https://johnmichaelcollins.wordpress.com/DISCLOSURE: GOING ON TANGEN...
2020-04-3032 min