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In this episode, Chasity Owens and Scott Kuhlman are LIVE again at IAAI International Training Conference with a live conversation featuring Fire Investigator and IAAI's 2026 Investigator of the Year Adam Holloway of Genesis Forensics and Fire Investigator John Hill of National Fire Experts. Both Adam and John are Eastern Kentucky University graduates who entered the fire investigation industry from the private sector and now help develop the next generation of investigators through internships, mentorship, and entry-level training programs. The conversation explores the challenges students face when trying to break into fire investigation, what employers should consider when building internship programs, and why real-world field exposure, strong methodology, communication skills, and persistence matter. They also discuss the importance of networking through local IAAI chapters, mentorship from experienced investigators, and how students can stand out in interviews by understanding fire dynamics, the scientific method, and the definition of fire. The episode also highlights upcoming fire investigation training opportunities, the “Can You Use It in a Sentence?” segment on thermoplastics, and Adam’s work with the IAAI Marine Fire Investigation Endorsement Program, including how the hands-on course uses real burned vessels, interviews, case studies, and origin-and-cause presentations to prepare investigators for marine fire scenes.

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LIVE from the IAAI ITC in St. Louis, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens sit down with IAAI Immediate Past President David Bridges and IAAI Current President Devin Palmer for a powerful conversation about leadership, training, mentorship, and the future of the fire investigation profession. David shares how his career evolved from law enforcement and accelerant detection canine work into becoming a technically trained attorney focused on civil fire and explosion litigation. Devin walks listeners through his path from forensic science student to ATF Certified Fire Investigator, National Response Team supervisor, and now IAAI President. Together, they discuss the importance of community, professional development, chapter support, student engagement, international outreach, and expanding fire investigation training for public sector, private sector, insurance, legal, and forensic professionals. The episode also highlights new IAAI initiatives, member benefits, regional training opportunities, insurance-focused education, and the value of bringing the next generation into fire investigation through hands-on learning and mentorship.

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LIVE at the International Association of Arson Investigators ITC 2026, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens sit down with fire investigator Nicole Brewer for one of the podcast’s most insightful conversations yet. Nicole shares her journey from firefighter to fire investigator, her transition from public to private sector investigations, and how advanced education through Eastern Kentucky University and Oklahoma State University shaped her approach to forensic fire analysis. The discussion dives deep into scientific methodology, courtroom testimony, cognitive bias in fire investigations, and practical strategies investigators can use to strengthen their origin and cause determinations.

The episode also explores the growing role of cognitive bias awareness in forensic science and how fire investigators can minimize unconscious influence during investigations. Nicole introduces her “Bias Minimization Worksheet” and explains how techniques like linear sequential unmasking and structured hypothesis testing can improve investigative reliability, courtroom confidence, and case defensibility. From real trial experiences and grand jury testimony to SAW (Scientific Advisory Workgroup) case reviews, this episode delivers valuable insight for both new and seasoned investigators looking to sharpen their methodology and elevate their professionalism in the field.

Bias Minimization Worksheet link:

https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/mobile/folders/1e9rUVqyJK9a8HzFj-8w6b-WgyQ9Jt5rB?usp=sharing

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If you enjoyed the episode, give us 5 stars, hit the follow button, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you are listening in from.

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