Leapodcasts

Episode: 00280 Released on August 18, 2025 Description: In this episode of Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason reconnects with longtime analyst and entrepreneur Sean Bair to dive into his latest venture, SwornAI. Sean shares how this new platform is tackling the health and wellness crisis in public safety by combining biometric data, CAD records, and artificial intelligence to better support officers and first responders. The conversation also explores Sean’s upcoming book on the role of AI in analysis and education, and what the future holds for analysts navigating the flood of data. With reflections on the 10-year anniversary of selling Bair Analytics, Sean offers candid insights into technology, innovation, and the evolving role of the crime analyst. 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking![Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Name Drops: Howard & Adam Safir (00:03:39), Dan Helms (00:45:08), Mark Dobbs (00:56:36)Public Service Announcements: Andrew Wheeler (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-dr-andrew-wheeler-crime-de-coder/)  Kyle Stoker (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/kyle-stoker-the-training-connoisseur/)  Related Links: https://sworn.ai/ https://www.leapodcasts.com/p/hiring-guide/ https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/sean-bair-%e2%80%93-the-entrepreneur/ https://www.byu.edu/ Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned:Contact:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbair/  Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/kt6ydybkn3behpf2/SwornAISeanBair_Transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts
00:00:17 – Introducing Sean00:01:31 – Sworn AI00:21:29 – Book 00:34:40 – Break:  Wheeler & Stoker00:35:47 – Students Using AI 00:47:41 – Analysis with AI00:55:06 – Selling Bair Analytics

Episode: 00279 Released on August 11, 2025 Description: In this episode of Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Dr. Charles Russo reflects on a three-decade career in intelligence, from his military service and work with NCIS to more than a decade as an FBI intelligence analyst. Charles reflects on high-stakes moments like supporting the Oklahoma City bombing investigation, tackling large-scale Russian auto insurance fraud rings, and navigating the challenges of complex financial crimes. He also dives into his passion for educating the next generation of analysts, the importance of critical thinking, and why public speaking skills are essential for the profession. From Hollywood myths about NCIS to the realities of multi-agency collaboration, Charles offers insight, lessons learned, and a candid look at the evolving world of law enforcement analysis. 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking![Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Name Drops: Public Service Announcements: Joshua Todd (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-josh-todd-the-adirondack-analyst/) Scott Eicher (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/scott-eicher-the-cellular-analysis-sme/) Related Links: https://www.drcharlesrusso.com/ https://linktr.ee/drcharlesrussoAmazon Book: https://a.co/d/0LCK9hlhttps://drcharlesmrusso.substack.com/ https://www.capella.edu/ https://www.amu.apus.edu/ https://ace.edu/ https://thrivedx.com/ https://www.stjohns.edu/ Gen Z Stare: https://youtube.com/shorts/V7WXZ5S1hsI?si=pqCoAgWXWz_26KDB Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned:Contact:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesmrussophd/  Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/xss8t9c22ukf8nb2/CharlesRusso_Transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts
00:00:17 – Introducing Charles00:06:09 – Oklahoma City Bombing00:16:26 – FBI 00:29:58 – Break:  Todd & Eicher00:31:34 – ABS: Russian Auto Fraud 00:49:31 – Training01:06:34 – Gen Z Stare01:15:50 – Public Speaking01:28:40 – Words to the World

Episode: 00278 Released on August 4, 2025 Description: This week on Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason chats with Erin Havelka of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office to explore her journey from uncertain undergrad to award-winning crime and intelligence analyst. Erin shares how a discouraging comment from a professor became her motivation, the initiative that led to her first analyst job, and the evolution of her unit from real-time support to investigative intelligence. She also shares her analyst badge story, detailing a seven-minute facial recognition success that helped identify a suspect after a deputy-involved shooting. She then shares how she built an internship program from the ground up. From mapping patterns to mentoring the next generation, Erin’s story is one of determination, innovation, and impact. Tune in to hear how she proves that curiosity and hustle can shape an entire career. 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking![Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Name Drops:  Anthony Bush (00:49:30)Public Service Announcements: Jim Mallard (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/osborne-tapes-jim-mallard/ &https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-jim-mallard-the-analyst-in-the-shadows/) Anthony Bush (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-anthony-bush-jail-calls-rock/) Related Links: https://harriscountyso.org/ https://www.alphagroupcenter.com/about-us/certificate-program/ https://www.ialeia.org/https://www.uhcl.edu/ https://www.tamucc.edu/https://abc13.com/post/harris-county-sheriffs-deputy-shot-officer-shooting-during-traffic-stop-homestead-road-terran-green/13662023/Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned:Contact:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-havelka-m-s-ccia-552115307/ Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/ye5x8grz46bxux4e/ErinHavelka_Transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts
00:00:17 – Introducing Erin00:11:13 – RTCC Analyst00:21:26 – ABS: Deputy Shooting00:31:12 – Break:  Mallard & Bush00:30:43 – Internship Program00:43:40 – Advice00:54:09 – Personal Interest:  Traveler00:56:30 – Words to the World

Episode: 00277 Released on July 28, 2025 Description: What happens when a 911 dispatcher becomes the driving force behind an entire analysis and intelligence center? This week on Analyst Talk, host Jason Elder sits down with Jennifer Scavotto of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office to explore her 20-year journey in law enforcement. Jennifer shares how a spontaneous decision led to a lifelong passion for analysis, beginning as a 911 operator and rising through the ranks to become manager of the agency’s Analysis and Intelligence Center. From building Excel workbooks during a multimillion-dollar gambling investigation to launching a real-time crime center with no additional budget, Jennifer reflects on defining moments, leadership lessons, and the evolution of crime analysis. Tune in for stories of grit, growth, and geekery including her favorite badge stories and a bonus segment on Disney vs. Universal! 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking![Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Name Drops:  Karen Allen (00:17:36)Public Service Announcements: Amanda Wiggins (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-amanda-wiggins-the-difference-maker/) Mandy Krueger (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-mandy-krueger-learned-probably-by-failure/) Related Links: https://www.seminolesheriff.org/ https://www.wesh.com/article/seminole-county-man-hitman-plot-to-murder-tv-star/64178214 https://www.ucf.edu/degree/sociology-ba/ https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Analyst-Academy https://extension.fullerton.edu/professionaldevelopment/certificates/crime https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/FCJEI/Executive-Leadership-Seminar.aspx Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned:Contact:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-scavotto-b210b916/ Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/48drnn8rv2vktssk/Scavotto_Transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts
00:00:17 – Introducing Jennifer00:11:03 – ABS: Illegal Gambling00:18:06 – Financial Crime Investigator 00:31:12 – Break:  Wiggins & Krueger00:31:56 – ABS: Triple Homicide00:47:21 – Training00:52:01 – Advice00:54:25 – Personal Interest:  Disney & Universal Theme Parks01:07:10 – Words to the World

Episode: 00276 Released on July 21, 2025 Description: What happens when an intern with military intelligence experience is tasked with building a crime analysis unit from scratch? This week on Analyst Talk, host Jason Elder speaks with Victoria Curtis, an intern at the McPherson Police Department in Kansas and former Air Force intelligence officer. Victoria shares how she discovered the law enforcement analysis profession, pitched the creation of an analyst unit, and built it from the ground up. From Excel dashboards to city commission briefings, she offers an inspiring look at determination, innovation, and the power of saying “yes” to your own potential. 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking![Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]This episode includes a call-in segment: Favorite First Jobs.Jan Mondale (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-jan-mondale-inquiring-minds/) Alexander Gulde (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-alexander-gulde-analyst-work-is-police-work/) Heather Fairburn (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-heather-fairburn-the-fire-within/) Erica Wiles (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-erika-wiles-venture-forth-and-appreciate/) Amanda Schenk (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-amanda-schenk-the-successful-applicant/) Name Drops:  Sabrina Potts (00:15:28), Jessica Dirks (00:21:40), Chris Delaney (00:29:53), Steve Gottlieb (00:39:30)Public Service Announcements: Jeff Vandersip (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/jeffrey-vandersip-the-crackerjack-analyst/) Shawn Fisher (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/shawn-fisher-the-geographer/) Related Links: https://www.mcpcity.com/171/Police-Department https://www.victoriacurtisanalysis.com/ https://degrees.apps.asu.edu/masters-phd/major/ASU00/PPCRMAGRCT/crime-analysis-graduate-certificate Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned:Contact:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-curtis-veteran/ Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/36u37uzrrbxc4nue/VictoriaCurtis_transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts
00:00:17 – Introducing Victoria00:08:24 – Air Force00:11:56 – McPherson PD 00:24:30 – Break:  Jeff Vandersip & Shawn Fisher00:26:06 – Building a Unit00:33:34 – ASU Graduate Certificate00:38:14 – Advice00:39:25 – Favorite First Jobs00:51:40 – Personal Interest:  Military Clothing00:55:00 – Words to the World

Episode: 00275 Released on July 14, 2025 Description: In this ninth installment of the Before You Leap series on Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason and Randy tackle the complex dynamics of collaboration in law enforcement analysis. They explore the challenges analysts face in task forces, commissions, and working groups—where critical thinking is essential but often constrained by deadlines, group dynamics, and institutional bias. Randy unpacks the influence of identity politics, information silos, and organizational satisficing, emphasizing the importance of candor, humility, and structured analytic techniques. Together, they reflect on how analysts can maintain mission integrity, question assumptions, and navigate collaboration without losing sight of objectivity. Whether you're a line analyst or a team leader, this deep dive offers essential insights for staying grounded in purpose while working with others.🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking! [Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Get to know more about Randy by listening to his episode on Analyst Talk With Jason Elder: https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-randy-stickley-the-self-promoter/ 
Name Drops: Related Links:  Rethinking Thought https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ82G1PL/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk https://www.amazon.com/Intelligence-Secrets-Mark-M-Lowenthal/dp/1544325061 davecariens.comBook on Amazonhttps://mattheweaton.net/posts/9-commandments-of-intelligence-analysis-the-kent-analytic-doctrine/ Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned: Contact: randall.c.stickleyii@gmail.com; https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-stickley-36b0a5109/  Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/36rs8j6zz95ixkyt/BYL09_transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts

Episode: 00274 Released on July 7, 2025 Description: This week on Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason chats with Jennifer Baggett, a crime analyst with over a decade of experience and a career path as unique as her perspective. From spinning classic rock on the Chattanooga airwaves to analyzing overdose trends for Hamilton County, Jen shares how a communications degree, a love for musical theater, and a pivotal conference keynote led her to become a data-driven, victim-focused analyst.
Jen reflects on the early days of Chattanooga PD’s crime analysis unit, the mentorship that shaped her skills, and her role in building a legacy of tactical crime analysis. She also opens up about the importance of health and wellness in this often sedentary profession and how physical strain nearly ended her career—until she made a change.
Whether you’re new to analysis or a seasoned pro, Jen’s story is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the power of building relationships inside and outside of the data.
🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking![Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Name Drops:  Katherine Hill/Bruce Blackman (00:16:09), Christopher Bruce (00:28:42), Sean Bair (00:58:38)Public Service Announcements: Jessica Elsmore (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-jessica-elsmore-the-hustler/) Kyle Mcfatridge (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-kyle-mcfatridge-the-sna-sme/) Jennifer Loper (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-jennifer-loper-the-junk-drawer/) Related Links: https://chattanooga.gov/government/police https://www.missamericabyday.com/ https://angeladuckworth.com/grit-book/ https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/ezwfadpbmi3e5it4/Resume-JenBaggett.pdf Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned:Contact:  jbaggett@epbfi.comTranscript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/9gkze5mcv9tt6w2i/JenBaggett_transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts
00:00:17 – Introducing Jennifer00:02:03 – Radio DJ00:09:10 – Chattanooga PD00:24:04 – Brought to the Table  00:29:16 – Break:  Jessica Elsmore, Kyle Mcfatridge, & Jennifer Loper00:30:46 – ABS:  Victim Advocate00:37:18 – Hamilton County Government00:51:33 – Advice01:00:48 – Personal Interest:  Musical Theater01:03:10 – Words to the World

Episode: 00273 Released on June 30, 2025 Description: This week on Analyst Talk, host Jason Elder welcomes Steve Walter, Crime and Intelligence Manager at the Oceanside Police Department, to share insights from his two-decade career in law enforcement analysis.. Steve shares how a graduate degree in contemporary British history led to a career pivot into crime analysis following 9/11, the challenges of being Oceanside PD’s first analyst, and the creative solutions that helped him build a thriving unit from scratch. He reflects on managing protests during the George Floyd era, hiring and retaining top talent, and why he’s stayed with the same department for over 20 years. Plus, hear Steve’s thoughts on AI, real-time crime centers, and what truly makes a successful analyst. Whether you’re a new analyst or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and heart.
🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking![Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Name Drops:  Steve Gottlieb (00:05:33), Sheila Potkonjak (00:20:13), Chief Taurino Valdovinos (00:39:19), Sam Gwinn/Carolyn Cassidy (00:54:50), Joe Ryan (01:05:13)Public Service Announcements: Carolyn Cassidy (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/carolyn-cassidy-%e2%80%93-the-world-traveler/) Sam Gwinn (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/samantha-gwinn-%e2%80%93-the-advocate/) Related Links: https://www.oceansidepolice.com/home-police https://www.linkedin.com/company/left-of-boom-conference/ Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned:Contact:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-walter-84b8aa3a/ Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/dg2w7aiv37z6dwnk/SteveWalter_transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts
00:00:17 – Introducing Steve00:02:42 – London00:09:22 – Oceanside00:23:23 – Moving to Manager  00:35:31 – Break:  Carolyn Cassidy & Sam Gwinn00:37:19 – ABS:  George Floyd Protests00:46:49 – AI & Analysts01:01:01 – Advice01:08:29 – Words to the World

Episode: 00272 Released on June 23, 2025 Description: In this episode of Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason sits down with Jaime Lamanna, a seasoned Crime and Intelligence Analyst with over a decade of experience at the Spokane Police Department. Jaime shares her unconventional path into the field—starting with an internship that turned into a temp role and eventually led to a full-time analyst position, thanks to persistence, support, and a little luck.
We hear unforgettable stories from her days in loss prevention (yes, including someone threatening to poop their pants), the challenges of being a temp in a demanding field, and how ride-alongs and building relationships have been key to her success.
Jaime also recounts her analyst badge story—uncovering a massive stolen property stash in a snowy garage—and dives into how she helped crack a package theft ring during the holidays, earning her a Medal of Merit. Plus, she reflects on the power of regional collaboration, her experiences with NORCAN, and the importance of being visible and engaged with your officers.
Whether you're a new analyst or a seasoned pro, Jaime’s passion, humor, and field-tested advice will resonate. 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking![Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Name Drops:  Joe Ryan (00:06:55)Public Service Announcements: Amanda Wiggins (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-amanda-wiggins-the-difference-maker/) Mandy Krueger (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-mandy-krueger-learned-probably-by-failure/) Related Links: https://my.spokanecity.org/police/ https://www.flocksafety.com/ https://static.spokanecity.org/documents/police/officer/awards/2024/presentation-letter-medal-of-merit-j-lamanna.pdf Kia Boys:  https://youtu.be/fbTrLyqL_nw?si=152ctk5-g6W2L6EA Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned:Contact:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-lamanna-609699255/ Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/vfez7hp8fjssm67q/JaimeLamanna_Transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts
00:00:17 – Introducing Jaime00:07:24 – Loss Prevention00:13:29 – Temporarily at Spokane00:17:42 – Kia Boys  00:21:47 – ABS:  Stolen Goods Stash00:28:34 – Break:  Amanda Wiggins & Mandy Krueger00:29:24 – Medal of Merit00:35:17 – Utilizing Analysts00:41:35 – Advice00:44:18 – NORCAN00:50:22 – Personal Interests:  Band Mom & Competitive Dance Mom00:54:00 – Words to the World

Analyst Talk - Open Secrets - Don’t Just Trust AI, Always Verify Episode: 00271 Released on June 16, 2025 Description: In this third installment of the Open Secrets series on Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, expert Jan Mondale discusses the evolving intersection of open-source intelligence (OSINT) and artificial intelligence. From personal experiences using AI tools like ChatGPT for medical research to broader implications for law enforcement analysts, Jan and Jason explore the power and pitfalls of integrating large language models into investigative workflows. Jan emphasizes the timeless importance of critical thinking, source validation, and ethical use—whether you're verifying a suspect's address or navigating the risks of misinformation. They also touch on AI's role in cybersecurity, translation, threat detection, and even the risks posed by overly trusting social media.
Key topics include:
Verifying AI-generated information
How OSINT and AI compare in investigative reliability
AI's utility in law enforcement and cyber threat analysis
Why analysts must remain smarter than the tools they use
Whether you're AI-curious or a seasoned OSINT pro, this episode challenges you to think deeper about the tools at your disposal—and how to use them wisely. [Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Related Links: Jan’s Notes:  https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/n6y2qvnkk64sebvt/OpenSecretsOSINTandAIJansNotes.pdfhttps://static.semrush.com/blog/uploads/media/ea/34/ea34afd0390da60dc82700c472f7d527/YIbvIN7lhZP6JJGSQvPgPmD5rSJ5H85yTxW30vNlkkwh952w5VjeLOfFIk2dVpPewO6fGCV5HN05reZF3jNikXjVpepl6xxHHE_RSRRXgnkqNp9bw-cNRn0ztDSy9XSw_a3GY-dIWlkUjpUYRBk8WZo.webp  https://ignitevisibility.com/how-is-bing-seo-different-than-google-seo/ Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned: Contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmondale/ Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/8mrsbshuzfvcnmmx/OpenSecrets03_transcript.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts