Podcasts about fire investigation

When a murder ends in suicide, investigators lose one of the most important pieces of the puzzle—the person who could explain why. In this episode, I take you inside several recent murder-suicide cases from across the United States, including tragedies involving entire families, intimate partners, and parents and children. From Michigan to Oklahoma, Delaware, and Florida, these heartbreaking cases remind us that every scene tells a story, but it's the evidence that reveals what truly happened. As a forensic death investigator, I explain how investigators reconstruct these complex scenes by examining body position, injuries, blood evidence, trajectories, fire damage, digital evidence, timelines, and countless other details. When there is no suspect to interview, no trial, and often no suicide note, the investigation must rely on science, careful documentation, and the facts left behind. We'll also discuss why protective orders don't always prevent violence, why investigators avoid speculation during active cases, and why it's important to distinguish between homicide and suicide when understanding these tragedies. Throughout the episode, I share the questions investigators ask, the evidence they search for, and why the answers aren't always immediately clear. These cases are difficult to hear, but they also highlight the dedication of investigators, first responders, and forensic professionals who work tirelessly to uncover the truth for victims and their families. Join me as we explore the investigative process behind one of the most challenging types of death investigations, and the questions that often remain when murder ends in suicide.

Send us Fan MailWhat can burned human remains reveal about a fatal fire—and what evidence may be permanently lost when a body is moved too soon?Recorded live at the IAAI International Training Conference in St. Louis, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens sit down with forensic anthropologist Dr. Elaine Pope to discuss the investigation and recovery of human remains from fatal fire scenes. Dr. Pope explains how forensic anthropology, fire investigation, law enforcement, and medicolegal death investigation must work together to accurately interpret the scene, identify victims, preserve evidence, and provide answers to families.The conversation explores how the human body burns in vehicle fires, structure fires, outdoor fires, and intentionally set fires; how burned bones can resemble drywall and other fire debris; and how fire patterns on the body may help investigators understand fire exposure and movement. Dr. Pope also explains why investigators should treat the body as evidence, leave it in place until it can be properly documented, and avoid assuming a fire death is accidental before the autopsy and complete investigation are finished.The episode also recaps the Central California Forensic Fatal Fire Death Investigation Academy, addresses the long-standing myth that the human skull explodes during a fire, and provides practical guidance for investigators approaching their first fatal fire scene.We Train Frequently: Georgia IAAI Conference — Savannah, Georgia: July 27–30, 2026Tennessee IAAI Conference: August 17–20, 2026  Includes AI for Fire InvestigatorsHawaii IAAI Conference: August 26–28, 2026 Nebraska Chapter Annual Fire Conference: September 15–17, 2026 IAAI Evidence Collection Technician Practical — CCAI Conference: October 8, 2026 Fire Investigator 1A — Hayward, California: September 14–18, 2026 Fire Investigator 1B — Hayward, California: October 26–30, 2026 Fire Investigator 1C — Hayward, California: November 16–20, 2026Link to the Hayward training: https://my.cheddarup.com/c/fire-investigation-courses-60744/itemsThank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

 In this incident debrief, we examine the two devastating fires at the Glasgow School of Art's Mackintosh Building in 2014 and 2018, unpacking how heritage construction, hidden ventilation ducts, timber voids, compromised fire protection during restoration, delayed detection, and an unfinished water mist system combined to create one of the most painful fire safety lessons in modern UK firefighting. The episode explores the operational response, the difficult shift to defensive firefighting, the challenges of commanding a rapidly developing heritage building fire, and the uncomfortable gap between knowing a risk exists and actually implementing the solution before the next incident happens. Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE Please check out our Partners supporting this episode areWilliam Wood Watches - Discount code FFPODCAST gives the user 10% off full range on websitePBI high-performance fabrics GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOSend us Fan MailSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Send us a text and chime in!Brad Fain and Ron Fain are joined by Prescott Valley Chief of Police Robert Ticer for a discussion on the ongoing Legado fire investigation. Chief Ticer provides a law enforcement perspective on the case, including why federal resources became involved and why some details remain limited while the investigation is active. The video also addresses public questions, community tips, and the continued effort to find answers more than two years after the fire. Anyone with information related to the Legado fire investigation is encouraged to contact the Prescott Valley Police Department (928-772-9267) or Yavapai Silent Witness (800-932-3232).Check out the CAST11.com Website at: https://CAST11.com Follow the CAST11 Podcast Network on Facebook at: https://Facebook.com/CAST11AZFollow Cast11 Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/cast11_podcast_network

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens sit down with Founder Jesse Sprague, Director of Research & Intelligence Phinehas Lampman, and  Software Developer and Data Scientist Kathleen Matos from Axon Intelligence to talk about the future of wildland fire investigation, origin and cause documentation, data science, remote sensing, AI, drone imagery, and fire investigation technology. The conversation explores how the new app EchoSpectra is helping investigators organize field data, document wildland fire indicators, track GOA/SOA development, export maps and photo logs, and strengthen the scientific method through better case organization. The group also discusses how computer vision, mapping, drone-based imagery, and pattern recognition may shape the future of both wildland and structure fire investigations, while also touching on firefighter health, smoke exposure, Valley Fever, and the need for better respiratory protection in the field.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Scott and Chasity catch up on fan mail, training opportunities, report writing, and the importance of verifying information in the age of AI before turning the mic over to their conversation with Fire Investigator and Student Committee Chair Sawyer Garriques at the 2026 IAAI ITC.Sawyer shares how the IAAI Student Committee is helping bridge the gap between students and the fire investigation profession through mentorship, networking, research opportunities, student memberships, and the newly developed student sponsorship program. The conversation highlights why students should get involved early, how attending the ITC can open career doors, and why the industry has a responsibility to support the next generation of investigators.The episode also covers the value of student research projects, poster presentations, strong networking skills, and the role chapters, businesses, and individual members can play in supporting students through scholarships, internships, training opportunities, and donations.Students interested in fire investigation are encouraged to reach out, ask questions, and take advantage of the resources available through the IAAI Student Committee.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Elected leaders are demanding an investigation into the warehouse fire in Boyle Heights. A judge throws out the Trump Administration's lawsuit against LA over its sanctuary city status. A juror gets tossed from the Palisades Fire trial. Plus, more from Morning Edition. Support The L.A. Report by donating at LAist.com/join and by visiting https://laist.comSupport the show: https://laist.com

In the headlines today, the Samui tourism sector is voicing stronger support for action against island mafias, in Khon Kaen a BYD car fire is raising concerns over the safety of the electric vehicle company, then, a woman claims that a fortune teller swindled her out of more than 30 million baht, also, when is it appropriate to drink on the job? probably not when drawing blood from elderly patients, and a little later Asian pop music is finally getting recognition at the Grammy's.

Send us Fan MailIn 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.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

CLICK HERE JOIN ME AT BLUE LIGHT SHOW | LONDON | JULY 2026On the 6th of January 1995, at five in the morning, a man discovered his sofa was on fire in apartment 509 of a thirty-storey residential block in North York, Toronto. He tried to put it out, failed, and ran leaving his apartment door wide open behind him. That single decision set off a chain of events that killed six people, all of them found above the twentieth floor in smoke-filled stairwells, in a building where the fire never meaningfully spread beyond the room it started in.In this episode I'm delivering a full operational debrief of the Forest Laneway fire, one of the most instructive high-rise residential incidents ever documented. I'm following the physics of stack effect in a thirty-storey concrete building on a sub-zero January night. I'm looking at the scissors staircase design that confused both escaping residents and arriving firefighters. I'm examining the sixteen-minute window of survivable self-evacuation that closed before a quarter of the building had even heard the alarm. And I'm asking the questions this incident demands we ask about how we brief high-rise fires, how we communicate with trapped occupants, and how many of the same failure points are sitting inside buildings in your area tonight.This is not a story about one bad night in Canada thirty years ago. This is a lesson in what happens when ordinary things go wrong in the right order.Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE Please check out our Partners supporting this episode areWilliam Wood Watches - Discount code FFPODCAST gives the user 10% off full range on websitePBI high-performance fabrics FIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsGORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send us Fan MailSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Send us Fan MailLIVE 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.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan MailLIVE 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.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

May 6, 2026 ~ Steve Haney, attorney for the Palisades Fire suspect, discusses the case against Jonathan Rinderknecht and addresses allegations about the suspect's fixation connected to the investigation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us Fan MailLive from IAAI ITC 2026 in St. Louis, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens sit down with Dr. Greg Gorbett to talk fire investigation, research-based tools, and the future of the profession. The conversation covers the U.S. NRC Fire Dynamics Tools spreadsheets, heat release rate calculations, flashover correlations, and how investigators can use empirical data in defensible origin and cause work. Greg also discusses his recent election to the IAAI Board of Directors, the need for advanced training, competency testing, proficiency exams, NFPA 1321, and the growing importance of standardized processes in fire investigation. The episode also explores digital image analysis, line of demarcation interpretation, uncertainty in conclusions, courtroom confidence, and why “forensic honesty” matters when presenting fire investigation findings.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens break down real-world court cases where fire investigators were challenged, excluded, or dismantled under legal scrutiny. From Daubert challenges and summary judgment to spoliation of evidence and product liability battles involving companies like Amazon, this episode dives deep into what can make—or break—an expert witness in court. Learn how improper methodology, lack of qualifications, confirmation bias, and failure to follow NFPA 921 can cost a case, and how to protect yourself by conducting every scene as if you're headed straight to trial. Whether you're a seasoned investigator or just entering the field, this episode delivers critical insights to strengthen your reports, testimony, and credibility in the courtroom.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Fire Marshal Jared Harms (Spokane, WA) reveals why ignitable liquid detection dogs train on only ONE odor—50% evaporated gasoline—and why it works better than multi-odor programs. Learn how dogs find evidence that's been BURNED, why food reward is essential in fire scenes, and why certification requires passing tests at actual fire scenes. Essential wisdom for detection dog handlers across all disciplines.This episode challenges conventional detection dog training assumptions while providing practical insights applicable to explosives, narcotics, and other detection fields.________________________________________

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens continue their deep dive into NFPA 921 Chapter 6 with Part 2: Fire Patterns.The episode blends real-world case studies with foundational fire science, reinforcing how fire investigators interpret patterns, validate origin hypotheses, and apply the scientific method in the field.Listeners are first brought into two compelling case studies: a hybrid vehicle fire with origin traced to the rear hatchback area despite severe damage, and a commercial fire involving a lithium-ion battery-powered blower where pattern interpretation was later confirmed through video evidence. These examples highlight the importance of pattern recognition, corroboration, and resisting premature conclusions.The discussion then transitions into core concepts from NFPA 921 Chapter 6, including fire effects, fire pattern generation, and pattern geometry. The hosts emphasize that fire patterns are not standalone proof of origin but must be analyzed alongside fire dynamics, heat release rate, ventilation, and witness statements.Key learning points include: Fire patterns reveal movement and intensity, not cause by themselves  Misinterpretation risks (e.g., “pour patterns”) and the importance of avoiding bias  The role of heat release rate and ventilation as primary drivers of pattern development  Practical application of the scientific method for origin determinationThe episode also explores legal-style questioning, helping investigators strengthen courtroom articulation and defend their methodology under scrutiny.To wrap up, the hosts introduce upcoming training opportunities and reinforce the importance of continued education, collaboration, and critical thinking in the evolving field of fire investigation.Alabama Chapter IAAI – 2026 Free Spring Training (April 7, 2026 – Decatur, AL) International Association of Arson Investigators ITC Conference (April 26–30, 2026 – St. Louis, MO)  Montana IAAI Annual Training Conference (May 12–14, 2026 – Billings, MT)  Wyoming IAAI Annual Conference (June 10–12, 2026 – Laramie, WY)  Georgia IAAI Annual Training Conference (July 27–30, 2026 – Savannah, GA)Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send a textIn this episode, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens kick off their discussion of NFPA 921 Chapter 6 by breaking down one of the most important foundations in fire investigation: fire effects, and then fire pattens next episode. Using real-world deposition questions and courtroom-style challenges, they show why investigators must be able to clearly explain concepts like fire plume development, truncated cone patterns, U patterns, clean burn, oxidation, calcination, spalling, and more. The episode blends technical training with practical field insight, including stories from recent burn cell exercises, lessons from student investigations, and a blunt reminder that experience alone does not replace a solid grasp of the science. Scott and Chasity walk through key fire effects identified in NFPA 921, explain why these concepts matter in scene analysis and legal testimony, and highlight how misunderstanding or overstating pattern interpretation can seriously damage an investigator's credibility. They also touch on upcoming training opportunities, fire death investigation work, industry events, hot surface ignition versus autoignition temperature, and the importance of continual study in a field where the basics can make or break a case.Training: Alabama Chapter 2026 Free Spring Training — April 7, 2026 | Decatur, AlabamaMontana IAAI 2026 Annual Training Conference — May 12–14, 2026 | Billings, MontanaAdvanced Fire Dynamics at Eastern Kentucky University — May 19–20, 2026 | Richmond, KentuckyThank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send a textRecorded live at the California Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI), this episode features Fire Investigator and researcher Keith Parker for a wide-ranging (and very real) conversation about what it looks like to apply the scientific method in fire investigation—especially when the ignition source is gone and the pressure to “have an answer” is high. We dig into affirmative evidence vs. negative corpus, why timelines can be some of the strongest support for (or against) a hypothesis, and the danger zone of assumptions sneaking into your data when you're convinced you already know what happened. Keith shares how his wildland experience evolved from frustration with wiped-out origins to building better training and getting involved in peer-reviewed wildland fire pattern research, including collaboration and mentorship from Dr. Vito Babrauskas. If you've ever wondered how confident we can be in wildland indicators under extreme conditions (wind, dry fuels, high intensity), or how wildland O&C is still maturing the way structure investigation did pre-NFPA 921, this one's for you. Plus: conference updates, what we're teaching next, how to get involved with IAAI as a student, and the return of “Can you use it in a sentence?” with a practical definition challenge to sharpen your investigator brain.National Wildland Fire Conference — April 24–26, 2026 — Oceanside (North County San Diego), CaliforniaIAAI ITC (International Training Conference) — April 27–May 1, 2026Georgia Fire Investigators Association Spring Conference — March 16–19, 2026 — Marietta (Cobb), GeorgiaAlabama Chapter FREE Spring Training — April 7, 2026 — Decatur, AlabamaMontana IAAI Annual Training Conference — May 12–14, 2026 — Billings, MontanaThank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send a textIn this episode, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens are joined by Fire Investigators Bill Strohm and Oliver Gillespie to explain how their fire investigation unit operates and why their structure leads to strong case outcomes. They break down the roles of shift investigators, who handle origin and cause, evidence collection, and witness interviews at active scenes, and day-shift investigators, who manage follow-ups, warrants, law enforcement coordination, and case preparation for prosecution. The team discusses how having two investigators on scene helps reduce bias and strengthen findings, the importance of building relationships with partner agencies, and how persistence and collaboration support long-term arson investigations. The episode closes with practical advice for solo investigators on capturing perishable information, staying disciplined with the scientific method, and communicating technical concepts clearly in court.Upcoming Trainings & Dates:New Mexico IAAI Annual Training Conference — February 23–27, 2026 (Albuquerque, NM)California Conference of Arson Investigators Training Seminar — February 23–26, 2026 (CA)Fire Investigation 1A (Miramar College) — March 9–13, 2026 (San Diego, CA)Georgia Fire Investigators Association Spring Conference — March 16–19, 2026 (Marietta, GA)Alabama Spring Training (Free) — April 7, 2026 (Decatur, AL)IAAI International Training Conference (ITC) — April 26–30, 2026 (St. Louis, MO)Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us a textIn this episode, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens sit down with returning guest Attorney Lauren Guber for a real-world conversation on how fire investigations hold up when the stakes are high—especially in court. The episode kicks off with a sharp comparison between the U.S. approach to fire investigation standards and the UK's “Code of Practice” concept, which reads more like “you shall” than “you should.” From there, Lauren breaks down what attorneys actually lean on when challenging an expert: your credentials, your investigation, and what you didn't do—and why being “qualified” under NFPA 1033 isn't the same thing as being “certified,” even though juries may treat it that way. The crew also digs into why continuing education matters (even more than years on the job), how peer review can sharpen investigators fast, and why programs like the Science Advisory Workgroup (“SAW group”) are a game-changer for improving report quality and courtroom readiness.You'll also hear highlights from a SAW group showcase in Oregon—where investigators presented cases, the audience got reports via QR code to follow along, and the panel asked the kind of questions that feel a lot like trial pressure (but with a learning-first vibe). The conversation closes with Lauren's practical courtroom advice: don't downplay your experience, tell your story clearly (especially for juries), and for the love of the transcript—slow down so the court reporter can keep up. Plus, the episode drops quick industry updates (“WTF We Train Frequently”), sponsor chatter, and ends on a nerdy teaser: what's the difference between a chromatograph and a chromatogram—and why fire investigators should actually know.Kansas Annual Conference (WTF We Train Frequently) — February 3–5, 2026 (Wichita, Kansas)IAAI Evidence Collection Technician (ECT) — Local/Orange County — February 20, 2026 (Irvine, California; Orange County Fire Authority HQ)California Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI) Annual Training — February 23–26, 2026 (California)New Mexico Annual Training Conference — February 23–27, 2026 (Albuquerque, New Mexico)Georgia Fire Investigators Association Spring Conference — March 16–19, 2026 (Cobb, Georgia)Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Angelenos hit the streets as part of today's "ICE Out" protests. California lawmakers look to raise taxes on companies operating immigration detention centers. An LA County leader calls for the state to investigate the Palisades Fire. Plus, more from Evening Edition. Support The L.A. Report by donating at LAist.com/join and by visiting https://laist.comSupport the show: https://laist.com

In this episode, we take a deep, minute-by-minute debrief of the Station nightclub fire in West Warwick, Rhode Island. A small ignition during a live music performance led to rapid smoke production, catastrophic loss of tenability, and the deaths of 100 people in less than six minutes. Drawing on investigation findings and eyewitness accounts, this episode focuses not on spectacle, but on how smoke, time, and human behaviour combined to turn a familiar venue into a fatal trap.This is not a story of slow response or obvious mistakes. Fire crews arrived quickly and in force, yet the outcome was largely decided in the first minute. The episode explores the uncomfortable lessons around exit blindness, crowd behaviour, sprinklers, and prevention, and reflects on what this incident still teaches us today including how relevant those lessons remain for the UK fire service and beyond.Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE our partners supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingFIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HEREXendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20Send us a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Send us a textSeason 3 kicks off with a timely and critical conversation on site safety assessments and why they are more than just a procedural checkbox—they're a fundamental part of the fire investigation process. Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens open the new year by reflecting on recent cases, near-misses, and real-world examples that highlight how quickly an investigation can become dangerous when scene hazards aren't properly assessed, mitigated, and documented. From energized electrical systems in fire-damaged structures to compromised floors, structural instability, soot exposure, and unauthorized occupants, this episode underscores that investigators must actively verify scene safety rather than rely on assumptions or third-party assurances.The discussion dives into what governing documents actually require, breaking down how NFPA 921, NFPA 1033, and NFPA 1321 address site safety assessments and why the word “shall” matters—especially in court. Scott and Chasity explain how failing to document a safety assessment in your report becomes low-hanging fruit for attorneys, even when the assessment was performed. They also explore the differences between public and private scene control, how safety officers and incident command influence access, and why investigators must continually reassess hazards as conditions change. The episode closes with training opportunities related to investigator safety, a practical explanation of what a white paper is (and how it differs from a technical report), and a challenge for listeners to define SOPs—and distinguish them from SOGs—before the next episode.Trainings & Conferences MentionedFire Investigation Safety Officer TrainingMesa, Arizona — February 9–10, 2026New Hampton, New York — February 11–12, 2026(Future offerings also mentioned in Illinois, April–May 2026; exact dates TBD)Kansas IAAI Annual ConferenceWichita — February 3–5, 2026New Mexico IAAI Annual Training ConferenceAlbuquerque — February 23–27, 2026California Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI) TrainingCalifornia — February 23–26, 2026Scott and Chasity will be teaching at this conferenceGeorgia Fire Investigators Association – Spring ConferenceMarietta — March 16–19, 2026(Held at Cobb County location)Scientific Advisory Work Group (SAW Group) – Mock Report ChallengeOregon — January 2026Exact dates not specified during the episodeThank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us a textIn this Christmas Eve Embercast, Chasity and Scott slow things down with a short, informal episode focused on listener feedback, community connection, and the continued growth of the fire investigation profession. Rather than a full-length case discussion, this Ember-style episode highlights messages from investigators around the world—including Australia—and explores meaningful conversations sparked by listener questions, critiques, and ideas. Topics include a listener-requested concept for a wildfire investigation roundtable series, advice for investigators preparing for the IAAI CFI certification exam, and a discussion on the difference between studying for a test and conducting real-world research. The episode also addresses a technical terminology correction—“arc” versus “arc site”—and why precision in language matters in both investigations and the courtroom. Chasity and Scott reflect on the importance of collaboration between public and private fire investigators, introduce a new 2025 segment titled “Here's the Scenario—Figure It Out,” and discuss why NFPA 921 should be viewed as a framework rather than a standalone research document. The Embercast closes with shoutouts to fellow fire investigation podcasts helping move the industry forward and a holiday message to listeners. Full episodes return January 7.

Emmy award winning filmmaker Jeff Aiello joins John to discuss the big winter storm heading our way plus the latest on the investigation into the cause of the devastating 2020 Creek Fire. Like & Subscribe. #Fresno #KMJ #CreekFire #Storm #PineappleExpress See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textThis episode is basically a training recap and a reality check for anyone trying to level up in origin and cause—especially in motor vehicle fires and evidence handling. Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens kick things off by talking about hosting multiple IAAI classes in Orange County, including the newer Evidence Collection course and the Evidence Collection Technician (ECT) practicum, with real talk about what surprised them, what they wish the class showed more clearly, and why “verbalizing the process” is the make-or-break skill on skills-based testing.Then they sit down with Chris Ellis (motor vehicle fire investigation instructor) to talk about how he got into the fire service, how he became an investigator, and why vehicle fires intimidate even seasoned investigators: fast consumption, heavy damage, and patterns that don't behave like a structure fire. Chris breaks down what the 3-day Motor Vehicle Fire Investigation class covers, why the curriculum was recently rewritten, and how the course is built to serve both the 6-month investigator and the 20-year veteran—including the value of having manufacturer reps (Volvo, Subaru, Honda, Mercedes, etc.) in the room to strengthen real-world knowledge and future case networking.The episode also gets practical: how instructors build diverse investigation groups (not “buddy groups”), why public/private collaboration matters, and how inviting the public agency to private vehicle exams can unlock crucial scene context you can't get later at a yard. You'll also hear student perspectives from Elliot and Anabelle Brown (children of fire investigator Kevin Brown) on what clicked for them—especially the confidence boost from learning vehicle-specific dynamics and applying them in the final scenario.Finally, you get a fun courtroom-minded segment on donut patterns (NFPA 921 reference included), why terminology can wreck your testimony if you're unprepared, and a teaser “word of the week” for next time: white paper.Trainings and dates (from the WTF segment)Kansas IAAI Annual Conference — February 3–5, 2026 — Wichita, KansasNew Mexico IAAI Annual Training Conference — February 23–27, 2026 — Albuquerque, New MexicoCalifornia Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI) — February 23–26, 2026 — San Luis Obispo, California (discounted rate if registered by February 2)IAAI International Training Conference (ITC) — April 26–30, 2026 — St. Louis, MissouriNational Fire Academy (NFA) application windows mentioned:Dec 15, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026 (for on-campus classes occurring in April–June 2026)Mar 15, 2026 – Apr 15, 2026 (for on-campus classes occurring in July–Sept 2026)Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

This episode goes deep into the reality of fire behaviour as it actually shows up on the fireground, not the simplified version many of us were taught early on. Matt and I talk about how modern fuels, building design and ventilation have changed the speed and violence of fire development, why smoke is often the biggest killer in the room, and how firefighters still get caught out by flow paths, rapid fire development and unseen pyrolysis. We get into high rise and complex buildings, wildfire versus structural thinking, decision making under pressure, and the gap that still exists between contemporary fire science and legacy doctrine. This is a practical conversation aimed squarely at improving how firefighters read fire, make decisions, and stay alive when the margins are thin and the consequences are high.Matt Davis is a Station Officer with the Tasmania Fire Service and a twenty one year veteran of the job, with deep experience across structural firefighting, wildfire, fire investigation, and instructor development. He has led strike teams on campaign fires, developed high rise and complex building training at an organisational level, and delivered fire behaviour education to firefighters, volunteers and specialist agencies across Australia and internationally. Alongside his operational career, Matt is the creator of one of the most respected fire behaviour education channels on YouTube, known for breaking down complex fire science into clear, honest and usable lessons. He brings academic rigour, operational credibility and a calm refusal to accept nonsense, making this conversation one every firefighter, instructor and officer should spend time with.Find Matts YOUTUBE HEREAccess all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HEREPODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HEREXendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydraSend us a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Inside the Lancashire Tactical Firefighting Summit: A Four-Part Series on Modern Firefighting.The final episode brings the series home with Greater Manchester's Tactical Firefighting Training Lead Dave Berry. Dave is one of the founding voices behind Tactical Firefighting UK. Dave charts the UK's slow march toward modernization, from years of near-identical training practices across multiple services to the moment everything began to shift: when a small WhatsApp group of instructors decided to collaborate instead of working in isolation. That collaboration evolved into TF-UK, a national network driving tactical innovation and shared learning.Dave shows how collective effort has accelerated progress in water mapping, flow testing, hose pack design, search techniques, size-up frameworks and more. He explains how TF-UK has reduced duplication, strengthened doctrine, and helped instructors introduce change with confidence and evidence. This closing chapter ties the entire mini series together with data from Dan, structure from Gerard, training evolution from Lucas and presents collaboration as the engine that will shape the future of UK firefighting.Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HEREPODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HEREXendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydratedSend us a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Send us a textIn this episode, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens kick off an exciting new series diving deep into NFPA 921—starting with one of the most critical chapters in the entire guide: Chapter 4, Basic Methodology. This episode blends expert-level fire investigation insight with the podcast's signature humor, storytelling, and real-world case experience. Scott and Chasity introduce their brand-new segment, “Investigation Interrogation,” where they challenge each other—and the audience—with key questions every fire investigator should know before stepping into a courtroom or writing a report.Listeners will learn how NFPA 921 now officially classifies fire investigation as a forensic science discipline, why Chapter 4 underpins everything from origin determination to negative corpus debates, and how the scientific method, inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning, bias reduction, and certainty levels shape reliable fire investigation results. They also unpack the three NFPA-recognized types of report reviews—administrative, technical, and peer review—and explain why a proper technical review is one of the strongest safeguards against confirmation bias and courtroom challenges.The hosts share listener fan-mail wins, discuss real-world examples involving candles, combustibles, appliances, and the limits of testing hypotheses, and even touch on holiday fire safety—from Christmas trees to oven light bulbs. As always, the episode is packed with practical, courtroom-ready insights, investigator mindset training, and memorable teaching moments… all wrapped in humor, banter, and a blues-style “Water Your Tree” holiday PSA.Whether you're a seasoned investigator, a trainee, or someone preparing for expert testimony, this episode delivers serious value and relatable, real-world fire investigation education—NFPA 921 made understandable, memorable, and actually fun.

Inside the Lancashire Tactical Firefighting Summit: A Four-Part Series on Modern Firefighting.In episode three, Fire and Rescue New South Wales instructor Lucas Garden takes us deep into the evolution of modern fire behaviour training. He traces how his service moved from rigid, tradition-heavy British-style tactics toward a more scientific, evidence-based approach shaped by international research. Lucas explains why understanding energy is the key to understanding fire, and how misconceptions about water, droplet behaviour and smoke cooling once held back operational effectiveness.Using the development of NSW's container programme as a case study, Lucas shows how to teach fire behaviour and tactical movement in a way that actually changes performance on the fireground. He breaks down the limits of container training, the risks of teaching bad habits in small volumes, and the importance of controlled, comfortable learning environments where firefighters can observe, reflect and embed good technique. This session is a masterclass in linking science to practical, repeatable skills that firefighters can trust under pressure.Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HEREPODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HEREXendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydratedSend us a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Inside the Lancashire Tactical Firefighting Summit: A Four-Part Series on Modern Firefighting.In episode two, Station Officer Gerard Mann of Fire Rescue Victoria builds on Dan's analysis by shifting the focus to how a fire service thinks strategically, tactically and culturally. Drawing on sixteen years across operations, training and doctrine development, Gerard lays out a simple but powerful framework that connects strategy, tactics, tasks and techniques. He explains why leadership alone can't deliver excellence, why capability lives at task and technique level, and why modern services need a unified operational language if they want predictable performance under pressure.Gerard also tackles the legal and ethical realities facing today's fire services. Following the death of Firefighter Isabella Nash and Australia's first operational manslaughter case, he explains why doctrine and training must be defensible, documented and aligned with real-world practice. From practitioner-written doctrine to bite-sized training modules and consistent instructor development, Gerard shows what an integrated, modern firefighting system actually looks like. This episode gives listeners the “how” behind building a service that can think and act as one.Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HEREPODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HEREXendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydratedSend us a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Inside the Lancashire Tactical Firefighting Summit: A Four-Part Series on Modern Firefighting.In part one of this mini series, Dan Stephens breaks down the findings from his cumulative inspection of all three Welsh fire and rescue services, focusing on operational effectiveness at domestic dwelling fires. He walks through three years of data, nearly fifteen hundred dwelling fires per year and reveals the patterns that emerge when you strip away assumptions. From the true prevalence of fuel-controlled fires, to the widespread misreporting of “well alight,” to the over-reliance on nineteen millimetre hose reels even in post-flashover environments, Dan shows how these decisions shape firefighter survivability, civilian outcomes and the scale of avoidable damage.He also highlights the human factors at play: the limits of experiential learning, the legacy of outdated and conflicting operational policies, and the lack of clarity around what “good” looks like on the fireground. Dan doesn't point the finger at firefighters. Instead, he shows where the system has failed them and why now is the moment to rebuild doctrine, training and operational expectations properly. This opening episode sets the tone for the full series. Honest analysis, shared learning and a clear push for capability built on evidence rather than folklore.Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HEREPODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HEREXendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydratedSend us a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Send us a textOn this episode, Scott and Chasity go deep into a real commercial structure fire that went all the way to jury trial—and nearly got labeled as “negative corpus” by the defense.They walk through the fire from first alarm to conviction: a midnight manual pull station, sprinklers flowing on stacked cardboard, a lone security guard, multiple small fires at knee height, and no obvious ignition source in the debris. Scott breaks down, step-by-step, how he eliminated every plausible cause, built a scientific timeline using fire dynamics and experimental burns, and defended his incendiary determination in court.Along the way they unpack:The difference between negative corpus and proper process of eliminationHow NFPA 921 evolved from 2008 through 2024 on this issueWhy documenting what you eliminated and how may be more important than your final causeUsing research like the Ignition Handbook and Kirk's Fire Investigation to support your findingsWhy separating origin & cause from interviews protects your objectivityHow attorneys will attack your work—and how to stay calm and defensible on the standThey also touch on AI and NFPA's new usage policy, talk respiratory protection with CleanSpace PAPR and ITL, share upcoming training opportunities, and introduce this episode's vocab word: “Forensic”—timed perfectly with NFPA 921 (2024) formally calling fire investigation a forensic science discipline for the first time.Stick around to the end for a tease of their upcoming NFPA 921 chapter-by-chapter game-show series, and don't forget to smash that five-star rating—it's free-99 and helps the podcast reach more investigators.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocus_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Laura Hogan, Northeast Correspondent, reports on the arrest of two men in connection with a fire at a building in Drogheda where international protection applicants were living.

 The Piper Alpha oil platform explosion killed 167 men and changed offshore safety forever. This is how a chain of ignored warnings turned the North Sea into a firestorm. And how another disaster, Deep Water Horizon, was foreshadowed by Piper.On July 6th, 1988, the North Sea lit up like a second sun. The Piper Alpha disaster wasn't just an accident—it was engineered by complacency, cost-cutting, and a system built to fail.This An Ounce episode dives into the chain of decisions that made disaster inevitable: missing paperwork, disabled safety systems, and production pressure that drowned out caution.From the first spark to the last survivor, this is the story of a night that reshaped offshore drilling worldwide.If you've ever wondered how safety rules are written in blood, this is it.

This week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News highlights some of the biggest stories around the county as of Friday, October 24, 2025. With Halloween right around the corner, Kankakee County is offering a range of festive activities, from the thrills of Rietveld's Haunted Corn Maze in Bourbonnais to the family-friendly fun of Halloween Downtown Kankakee. Local officials are also investigating an early morning fire at an abandoned building on South Greenwood Avenue, which is believed to have been deliberately set. In other news, the Kankakee River Metropolitan Agency and the City of Kankakee have finalized a $100,000 settlement with former KRMA Executive Director Richard Simms and his daughter, closing a years-long fraud case. Meanwhile, Kankakee School District 111 celebrated the opening of its new outdoor fitness court behind Kankakee High School, promoting health, wellness, and free public access for the community.Send us a textSupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode, spooky season banter quickly gives way to a masterclass on interviewing for fire investigation: open-ended vs. leading questions, letting witnesses talk without interruption, taking notes without breaking rapport, and using scene walk-throughs to correct memory gaps and build timelines. We unpack subrogation in plain English, why early investigator deployment is value-add, and how to avoid bias from client synopses. Real cases include a mid-slope wildland start clarified by witness video, an LA industrial strip with two separate fires hours apart, and a garage Li-ion incident with practical safety takeaways. Tools mentioned include PLAUD for transcription and LLMs for formatting—not for conclusions. We close with “Use It in a Sentence” on ambient, a roundup of WTF Trainings, and a two-fer homework: interview vs. interrogation—what's the difference?Resources mentioned (non-sponsored)PLAUD (Plaud Note) – audio capture/transcription used to create interview transcripts.LLMs (e.g., Gemini/ChatGPT/Claude) – used only to format summaries from transcripts.WTF Trainings (as mentioned on the show)Alabama ATC 2025 — Oct 27–29, Orange Beach, ALFlorida IAAI Chapter (Lake Buena Vista) — Nov 3–6 Idaho Chapter Annual Conference — Nov 4–6, Twin Falls, IDHispano Americano ATC 2025 — Nov 11–14, Santa Martha, ColombiaOhio IAAI Investigation Seminar 2025 — Nov 12–13, OHThank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocus_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us a textIn this episode Chasity and Scott dig into how real-world investigators apply NFPA 921 on scene and on the stand—focusing on why we qualify conclusions (not quantify them), how to express confidence without the discredited “reasonable degree of scientific certainty,” and practical ways to navigate internal and external pressure during origin-and-cause work. You'll also hear quick takes on PAPRs in the field (battery life, full-face vs. half-mask), what's new on the training calendar, shout-outs to must-listen podcasts, and a first look at the upcoming Fire Death Investigation Academy. Plus, a simple “word of the week” you'll actually use in your next report. Tune in for tactics you can put to work immediately—without giving away the whole playbook.California Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI)  Oct 6–9West Virginia Training — Oct 13–14, 2025Arkansas Fire Prevention & Investigation Conference — Oct 14–16Alabama Conference — Orange Beach — Oct 27–29, 2025Florida Annual Training Conference — Lake Buena Vista — Nov 3–6Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocus_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

In this segment, Mark is joined by Brian Ping, a News Anchor for KNX Radio in Los Angeles and a St Louis native. He discusses the arrest made in the Palisades fire investigation.

Investigation into cause of Sandia Fire, Local law enforcement monitoring for threats amid political tension, Woman arrested accused of theft at Carlsbad Outlet store

Send us a textIn this episode, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens recap a high-energy week teaching “AI for Fire Investigators” with the Illinois Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators in Peoria—what they changed from earlier classes, why transparent prompting and hands-on tools boosted engagement, and how they'll evolve live demos next time. They unpack a standout burn-cell scenario where a clean-burn sat feet away from the true area of origin, using it to highlight how depth of char and calcination indicate relative heat exposure—not burn time—and why you must articulate origin before cause to survive depositions. Listener mail digs into IAAI Fundamentals vs. the National Fire Academy (NFA) two-week course, plus a candid look at public–private teamwork done right in Illinois. You'll also hear quick hits on PPE (CleanSpace PAPR), a fall training roundup, and a teaser for the next Ember Cast on Project Fire Buddies. If you're building your skills—NFPA 921 patterns, ventilation effects, report writing, and AI workflows—this one's packed with practical takeaways without spoiling the stories.Illinois Chapter IAAI: https://il-iaai.comWTF: Upcoming trainings mentionedCCAI Annual (CA): Oct 6–9;  arson.orgWest Virginia IAAI: Oct 13–14Arkansas IAAI: Oct 14–16Alabama IAAI (Orange Beach): Oct 27–29Florida IAAI ATC: Nov 3–6 (Scott & Chasity teaching AI)ITL - CleanSpace Distributor- Tim Costa; tim.costa@itl.usThank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocus_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us a textWelcome back to Fire Investigation in Focus! In this episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens dive deep into the world of fire patterns, fire effects, and origin determination, bringing both practical field experience and NFPA 921 insights straight to your headphones.We kick things off by introducing Ember Casts—shorter, 10–20 minute mini-episodes designed to drop in between full shows, offering a “little ember of knowledge, big flames of understanding.” These quick hits will cover focused topics, case takeaways, and emerging tools, giving fire investigators the edge to stay sharp between major episodes.From there, Scott and Chasity break down the different types of fire patterns you'll encounter in the field: hot gas layer effects, plume-generated patterns, ventilation-driven patterns, suppression artifacts, and even undetermined or misleading fire patterns. Through real-world case studies—including residential and fatal fires—they explain how to distinguish between cause and effect, avoid common misinterpretations, and build reports that stand up to scrutiny in deposition or trial.Listeners will hear about the importance of report writing language (first vs. third person), how forensic science terminology is evolving in NFPA 921 (2024 edition), and why tools like heat and flame vector analysis are crucial for sequencing and communicating your findings clearly. Scott and Chasity also share stories from training burns, suppression pattern recognition, and investigative “aha moments” that highlight the skillset fire investigators acquire over time.The episode also touches on investigator mindset, reminding professionals to show grace when explaining findings to attorneys, homeowners, or jurors who don't see fire scenes every day. Plus, there's a look ahead at upcoming fire investigation trainings and conferences, including Illinois, Nebraska, North Dakota, Nevada, and CCAI events, as well as a Spanish-language FIG Global webinar.Whether you're a new fire investigator hungry for knowledge or a seasoned professional looking for a refresher on NFPA 921 fire patterns, origin determination, and scientific method application, this episode is packed with practical insights, case examples, and professional takeaways to strengthen your investigative toolbox.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocus_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us a textWelcome to the very first EmberCast, a new short-form addition to the Fire Investigation INFOCUS Podcast. These mini-episodes are designed to spark curiosity and deliver timely insights in between our full episodes. In this kickoff EmberCast, Chasity and Scott are joined by Jesse Sprague, founder of Echo Spectra, to talk about an innovative new tool for wildfire investigation. Jesse shares how his background in geology, computer science, and mapping led him to develop a free mobile app that allows investigators to document wildfire origin and cause scenes with precision. Built to align with the PMS 412 guidelines, the app enables users to capture directional indicators, tie them directly to photos and metadata, and export results into formats like Google Earth—complete with styled arrows, orientation, and photo logs.Throughout the conversation, Jesse explains the app's capabilities, from tracking advancing, lateral, and backing indicators, to overlaying wind vectors, lightning strike data, and land ownership information. He also shares upcoming features like polygons, boundary mapping, and turkey tracks to enhance scene documentation. Scott and Chasity highlight the value this tool brings to investigators at all levels—whether new to the field or seasoned experts—by consolidating critical data into one intuitive platform. With Echo Spectra's blend of technology and fire science, investigators now have a powerful, accessible way to streamline their work and elevate their reporting.This episode is a must-listen for anyone working in fire investigation, wildland fire response, or legal teams supporting fire cases. And the best part? The Echo Spectra app is completely free to download, making it an incredible resource for the community.Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocus_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us a textEpisode 17 – Fire Investigation in Focus Podcast In this episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens return to the studio to dive into some of the most important updates shaping the fire investigation field. From the realities of starting a new business in the industry to the growing role of education and advanced certifications, Scott and Chasity share real experiences and advice that every investigator—new or seasoned—can learn from. They highlight exciting developments such as the launch of FIG Global's Forensic Science Center in Mexico, upcoming changes to NFPA 921 and NFPA 1033 (2027 editions), and what those revisions mean for investigators moving forward—especially regarding wildland fire investigations, digital evidence, and AI in reporting. You'll also hear insights on practical training opportunities, upcoming conferences, and why passion and process are key to credibility in the courtroom.Whether you're building your career, brushing up on standards, or just love geeking out on fire dynamics, this episode will keep you informed, inspired, and connected to the future of fire investigation.Upcoming Fire Investigation Trainings & Conferences:Ohio Arson Investigation Conference

The I Love CVille Show headlines: Motive To Enter Leveled Glenmore Home In Question Neighbors, Utility Co Question AlbCo Fire Investigation Miyares Blocking Press Indicate VA GOP Dysfunction? Charlottesville Airport Marked 70 Years Of Flying 1st Phase Of Middle School, Formerly Buford, Complete Police Assist In Relocating Unhoused Under Freebridge Under Elliott, UVA Is 6-12 At Home (2-10 ACC) Exec Offices For Rent ($350 – $2000), Contact Jerry Read Viewer & Listener Comments Live On-Air The I Love CVille Show airs live Monday – Friday from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm on The I Love CVille Network. Watch and listen to The I Love CVille Show on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, iTunes, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Spotify, Fountain, Amazon Music, Audible, Rumble and iLoveCVille.com.

Send us a textWelcome back! In this episode our hosts return to recording live episodes together! Chasity kicks things off with exciting news about launching her own fire investigation company and shares stories from her incredibly busy first week, including four fires and some impressive networking at joint examinations. She takes us through fascinating cases, from a kitchen fire caused by cloth items accidentally left in a broiler to a massive carport fire involving 20 vehicles that initially had witnesses convinced arson was involved - until solid forensic work proved otherwise.Scott shares his own intriguing cases, including a potential spontaneous heating incident from improperly disposed refinishing materials, and discusses the importance of witness interviews after sharing a gripping story about an apartment fire with suspicious Ring camera footage. The hosts dive into the challenges of single-resource investigation work and emphasize the critical balance between forensic evidence and witness statements in determining fire origin.The episode features their signature movie quote game (with mixed results on Chasity's movie knowledge!), valuable insights about approaching experts at conferences, and Scott's mind-blowing demonstration of ChatGPT's new Agent Mode for research tasks. They also highlight upcoming training opportunities across multiple states and remind listeners about their upcoming appearance at the Illinois chapter meeting where they'll be teaching classes and recording a live podcast segment.Throughout the episode, the hosts maintain their trademark blend of technical expertise, practical advice, and genuine enthusiasm for fire investigation, making complex forensic concepts accessible while sharing real-world experiences that showcase both the science and art of their profession. Whether you're a seasoned investigator or just curious about fire investigation, this episode delivers valuable insights wrapped in engaging storytelling.Key Topics Covered:Starting a fire investigation businessKitchen fire safety and broiler storage mistakesLarge-scale carport fire investigation techniquesSpontaneous heating from refinishing materialsWitness interview strategies and timingConference networking and expert consultationAI tools for research and documentationUpcoming training opportunities nationwideFire pattern analysis and undetermined classificationsUpcoming Training Events:North Dakota Annual Training Conference (Sept 24-26)Nebraska Conference in Norfolk (Sept 16)California CCAI Conference in San Luis Obispo (Oct 6-9)Arkansas Fire Prevention Conference (Oct 14-16)Alabama Conference in Orange Beach (Oct 27-29)Illinois Chapter Meeting in Peoria (Sept 15-17) - featuring the hosts!Note: The hosts will be teaching AI classes and conducting a live podcast recording at the Illinois conference - don't miss the chance to meet them in person!Thank you for listening! 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. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocus_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast

California has two IFMA Chapters representing the Northern and Southern regions of the state. Joining me today are Nick Otis and Nicole Pasqueira, the Presidents of their respective Chapters.   Check out the YouTube video of the California Battery ESS Symposium here – https://www.youtube.com/live/Q1yZFtaykiA   www.firepreventionofficers.org is their website.   Any feedback, comments, or questions email IFMA@NFPA.org