Dr. Eric Hickey maps the real path into forensic psychology, from early criminology dreams to graduate training in a state hospital forensic unit, to consulting with the U.S. military, testifying in court, and working high profile cases like the Wayne Williams investigation. He shares chance encounters that shaped his work, including meeting Jeffrey Dahmer’s brother, explains why critical thinking and neutrality matter when interviewing psychopaths, and previews future guests, offenders and victims alike, on Dark Matters.

Dark Matters EP 1 In this kickoff to Dark Matters, Dr. Eric Hickey offers a guided tour of forensic psychology, what it is, where it came from, and why it matters. He charts the field’s growth, from early behavioral units and rough profiling, to modern research, advanced risk assessment, and geographic prediction. Drawing from decades of experience across investigations, research, and consultation, he discusses homicide, sex crimes, and criminal paraphilia, the value of partnerships with law enforcement, and the skills needed to do the work, empathy, boundaries, and critical thinking. With candid stories from hospitals, prisons, courtrooms, and cold cases, this introduction previews a season of informed conversations that illuminate the darkest corners to help save lives.