Search : before you leap

Episode: 00304 Released on February 2, 2026 Description: New tools often arrive faster than the discipline needed to use them well. Randy Stickley returns for another installment of Before You Leap to examine how artificial intelligence is entering analytic workflows and what analysts must consider before relying on it. The discussion explores AI hallucinations, large language models, writing and research augmentation, and the enduring role of human judgment in law enforcement analysis. Through real-world examples, cognitive illusions, and courtroom implications, this episode outlines where AI can support analysts, where it can mislead them, and why tradecraft, validation, and critical thinking must remain firmly in the driver’s seat. 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking! [Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.]Get to know more about Randy by listening to his episodes on Analyst Talk With Jason Elder: https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-randy-stickley-the-self-promoter/ https://www.leapodcasts.com/?s=BeforeYouLeap 
Name Drops: Ryan Kapaun (00:05:56), Dr. Andreas Olligschlaeger (00:22:00), Christopher Cruz/Debbie Osborne (00:26:51)Public Service Announcements: Podcast Listener Feedback Survey. To complete, click here.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 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/9g9pyss7w7wmcypa/BYL11_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 X: @leapodcasts

Episode: 00286 Released on September 29, 2025 Description: In this tenth installment of the Before You Leap series on Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason and Randy explore how analysts can maximize training and certification opportunities. From foundational programs like FIAT to specialized certifications in cyber, financial, and analytic methods, Randy highlights practical strategies for navigating costs, avoiding “certification mills,” and building technical skills like SQL. The conversation also covers conferences, networking, and community engagement reminding analysts that the best career investment is often themselves.Congratulations to Randy Stickley on his election as Director of Training for the IALEIA DC Metro Chapter! His leadership and passion for education are helping analysts everywhere grow their skills and confidence.🎧 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: Public Service Announcements: IACA Elections. Please vote. https://iacanet.memberclicks.net/candidates-25?servId=11337 Related Links:  https://www.ialeia.org/ https://www.ialeia.org/training.php https://www.nw3c.org/UI/CourseCatalog.html https://osintacademy.com/ https://www.coursera.org/learn/sql-for-data-science Rethinking Thought https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ82G1PL/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk https://www.amazon.com/Intelligence-Secrets-Mark-M-Lowenthal/dp/1544325061 Association(s) Mentioned: 
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Contact: randall.c.stickleyii@gmail.com; https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-stickley-36b0a5109/  
Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/wijv7fv2583qz2hx/BYL10_transcript.pdf  
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Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com.
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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: 00268 Released on May 26, 2025 Description: In this eighth installment of the Before You Leap series on Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason Elder and Intelligence Analyst Randy Stickley discuss the personal toll that comes with being deeply invested in law enforcement analysis. From burnout and emotional fatigue to the blurred line between identity and occupation, Randy opens up about his own experiences and lessons learned. Together, Jason and Randy explore the importance of self-preservation, the value of vacation, and how taking a step back can actually make you a better analyst.
 🎙️ It’s Memorial Day—hopefully you're taking time to relax, recharge, and honor the meaning of the day while caring for yourself.
 🗳️ And a quick reminder for IACA members: Voting is open for the Innovative Ideas motions through May 29, 2025. Make your voice heard and help shape the future of the association! 🧠 Emotional investment ⚖️ Identity vs. role 🌴 Using your vacation time 💬 Fear of failure and burnout 📣 Plus: share your experience with burnout or self-care at LEApodcasts@gmail.com
 [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 ✅ Cast your vote for IACA Innovative Ideas Forum 📣 Encourage your fellow members to vote 🌱 Be part of sparking change in the IACA Ready to vote? 🔗 Innovative Ideas Ballot: https://www.iaca.net/innovative-ideas?servId=11337 Want more context? 🗨️ Innovative Ideas Forum: https://community.iaca.net/discuss/viewcategory/140 🎧 Podcast: Motion Commotion: https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/analyst-talk-motion-commotion-voting-to-advance-iaca-s-innovative-ideas/ Let’s make these ideas count. Vote today—and help shape the future of the IACA.
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Contact: randall.c.stickleyii@gmail.com; https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-stickley-36b0a5109/  
Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/mvbnxjmnsdi8egz9/BYL08_transcript.pdf 
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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  
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Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts

Episode: 00258 Released on March 17, 2025 Description: In this seventh installment of the Before You Leap series on Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason and intelligence analyst Randy Stickley explore the crucial role of critical thinking, humility, and open-mindedness in law enforcement analysis. They discuss the complexities of multi-agency collaboration, including overcoming friction, understanding agency norms, and navigating MOUs that dictate data sharing. Randy shares practical strategies for analysts—both new and experienced—on building professional rapport, identifying gaps in intelligence workflows, and fostering innovation within established teams.
Whether you're stepping into a new task force or looking to refine your analytical approach, this episode offers actionable insights to help you think critically and work more effectively with others. Plus, Randy introduces his book, Rethinking Thought: A Practitioner’s Guide to Critical Thinking and Intelligence Analysis, for those looking to deepen their understanding of the topic.
Listen now to learn how thinking together leads to better analysis and stronger collaborations![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/ CHALLENGE: There are Easter eggs in one of the tables of the Excel chapter that Jason wrote for the IACA textbook. First-person to email us at leapodcasts@gmail.com about what the Easter eggs are will receive a $75 gift card from us. Happy hunting!
*** Episode 7 Analysis - IACA Conference Preview - Rethinking Thought https://youtu.be/YC_b8GWofDk  ***
Name Drops: Related Links:  Rethinking Thought https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ82G1PL/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk 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/ggyehvbfhin348zy/BYL07_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: 00251 Released on January 27, 2025 Description:  Join host Jason Elder and special guest Randy Stickley as they dive into the four foundational pillars of critical thinking: courage, intellectual curiosity, open-mindedness, and humility. In this thought-provoking conversation, Jason and Randy discuss how these principles shape effective intelligence analysis and the challenges analysts face in navigating cognitive traps, office dynamics, and biases.
Listen in as they share insights on balancing confidence with humility, avoiding premature conclusions, and fostering collaboration for better results. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your analytic journey, this episode offers invaluable tools to refine your critical thinking approach.
Stay until the end for some fun banter about the latest Superman trailer and why humility might be the real hero of the episode!  [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/ CHALLENGE: There are Easter eggs in one of the tables of the Excel chapter that Jason wrote for the IACA textbook. First-person to email us at leapodcasts@gmail.com about what the Easter eggs are will receive a $75 gift card from us. Happy hunting!
*** Episode 7 Analysis - IACA Conference Preview - Rethinking Thought https://youtu.be/YC_b8GWofDk  ***
Name Drops: Related Links:  Rethinking Thought https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ82G1PL/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk 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/6xps3ckf966aspza/BYL06_Transcript.pdf 
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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: 00246 Released on December 23, 2024. Description: Join Jason Elder and Randy Stickley for another deep dive in this engaging Before You Leap episode. This week, Randy builds on the prior discussion about critical thinking and confidence, exploring how analysts articulate assessments and navigate their workplaces. Drawing insights from a surprising source—a speech by retired U.S. General Mark Milley—Randy and Jason discuss the nuances of probability versus possibility in analysis and why words matter.
They dive into how miscommunication can impact assessments, the importance of critical thinking in intelligence work, and the stark contrasts between crime analysis and threat assessments. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights on how to think critically, speak confidently, and avoid common pitfalls in the analytic profession.Tune in for expert advice, a little math nostalgia, and actionable tips to elevate your analytic game. Listen now and remember: Think before you leap!  [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-dawn-reeby-the-ceo-analyst/ CHALLENGE: There are Easter eggs in one of the tables of the Excel chapter that Jason wrote for the IACA textbook. First-person to email us at leapodcasts@gmail.com about what the Easter eggs are will receive a $75 gift card from us. Happy hunting!
*** Episode 7 Analysis - IACA Conference Preview - Rethinking Thought https://youtu.be/YC_b8GWofDk  ***
Name Drops:  Akshata KumavatRelated Links:  Rethinking Thought https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ82G1PL/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk Association(s) Mentioned: 
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Contact: randall.c.stickleyii@gmail.com; https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-stickley-36b0a5109/  
Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/z5zc8qbzmtfeza5k/BYL05_transcript.pdf 
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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: 00239 Released on November 4, 2024 Description: In this episode, Randy and Jason explore the nuances of analytical thought—how understanding our own biases, thought patterns, and internal dialogue can enhance both personal and professional effectiveness. From discussing the importance of self-awareness to navigating the often fast-paced demands of real-time crime centers, this episode offers analysts valuable insights on honing their critical thinking skills. As they reflect on their own experiences, they also touch upon confidence-building for new analysts and making critical decisions under pressure. Stay tuned for practical tips on embracing discomfort and continuously refining your analysis approach. And don’t miss the exciting news about Randy's new book, Rethinking Thought, co-authored with Akshata Kumavat—a must-read for anyone in the field! [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/ CHALLENGE: There are Easter eggs in one of the tables of the Excel chapter that Jason wrote for the IACA textbook. First-person to email us at leapodcasts@gmail.com about what the Easter eggs are will receive a $75 gift card from us. Happy hunting!
*** Episode 6 of Cocktails & Crime Analysis - IACA Conference Preview - Presenters Edition https://youtu.be/FS6qqCQfcJI  ***
Name Drops:  Akshata KumavatRelated Links:  Rethinking Thought https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ82G1PL/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk 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/6kbyhbb4hzghzrhd/BYL04_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: 00234 Released on September 30, 2024 Description: In this episode, Randy Stickley talks about the challenges and importance of utilizing open source intelligence (OSINT) in law enforcement analysis. Randy discusses the overwhelming amount of data available, projected to reach 175 zettabytes by 2025, and the critical need for solid analytic tradecraft to sift through this information effectively. Randy emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and structured methodologies, such as structured brainstorming and red teaming, to mitigate biases and accurately interpret data. Randy also explores the nuances of misinformation and disinformation, highlighting the difficulty in changing entrenched beliefs and the importance of understanding the context and behavior of subjects. The key takeaway is while tools are valuable, they should never replace foundational analytic tradecraft. [Note:  Description produced by AI.]
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/CHALLENGE: There are Easter eggs in one of the tables of the Excel chapter that Jason wrote for the IACA textbook. First-person to email us at leapodcasts@gmail.com about what the Easter eggs are will receive a $75 gift card from us. Happy hunting!
*** Episode 6 of Cocktails & Crime Analysis - IACA Conference Preview - Presenters Edition https://youtu.be/FS6qqCQfcJI  ***
Name Drops:Related Links: 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/pp8bt6aqcn9r8qcb/TranscriptsBYL03.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: 00225 Released on August 5, 2024 Description: In episode 2 of Before You Leap, Randy Stickley reviews common biases for law enforcement analysts. Everyone has biases, so it is important to search for potential biases in analytical products. Before you leap, think about bias and double and even triple check that you maintained your objectivity.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/CHALLENGE: There are Easter eggs in one of the tables of the Excel chapter that Jason wrote for the IACA textbook. First-person to email us at leapodcasts@gmail.com about what the Easter eggs are will receive a $75 gift card from us. Happy hunting!
*** Episode 4 - Armchair IACA President of Cocktails & Crime Analysis - https://youtu.be/gcS9PJ_yrtQ  ***
Name Drops: Dave Abbruzzino (00:14:29)Related Links:  "Psychology of Intelligence Analysis" - Richards Heuer https://www.cia.gov/resources/csi/books-monographs/psychology-of-intelligence-analysis-2/“A Tradecraft Primer: Structured Analytic Techniques for Improving Intelligence Analysis” - Central Intelligence Agency, Center for the Study of Intelligencehttps://www.cia.gov/resources/csi/books-monographs/a-tradecraft-primer/"Humans' Cognitive Bias Mistakes"https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/11/humans-cognitive-bias-mistake/utm_campaign=social_video_2021&utm_content=24507_biases_affecting_how_view_the_world&utm_medium=social_video&utm_source=linkedin&utm_term=1_1
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Contact: randall.c.stickleyii@gmail.com; https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-stickley-36b0a5109/  
Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/mfcg48sw3mqq9zcj/BYLep02a.pdf 
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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