Episodes

Monday Jul 21, 2025
Analyst Talk - Victoria Curtis - From Air Force Nerd to Crime Analyst Intern
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Monday Jul 21, 2025
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

Monday Jul 14, 2025
Analyst Talk - Before You Leap - Think Critically in Collaborative Chaos
Monday Jul 14, 2025
Monday Jul 14, 2025
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

Monday Jul 07, 2025
Analyst Talk - Jennifer Baggett - Caring Through Data
Monday Jul 07, 2025
Monday Jul 07, 2025
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

Monday Jun 30, 2025
Monday Jun 30, 2025
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

Monday Jun 23, 2025
Analyst Talk - Jaime Lamanna - Crime, Snow, and Stolen Goods
Monday Jun 23, 2025
Monday Jun 23, 2025
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

Monday Jun 16, 2025
Analyst Talk - Open Secrets - Don’t Just Trust AI, Always Verify
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
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

Monday Jun 09, 2025
Analyst Talk - Amanda Sienkiewicz - From Coca-Cola Dreams to Crime Scenes
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Episode: 00270 Released on June 9, 2025 Description: In this powerful episode of Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason sits down with Amanda Sienkiewicz, the 2024 Civilian of the Year for the Lee County Sheriff's Office. Amanda shares her winding path from marketing graduate with dreams of working for Coca-Cola to becoming a highly respected law enforcement analyst in Florida. With 18 years of experience, Amanda reflects on the surprising turns her career has taken from analyzing financial crimes and tracking sexual predators to solving homicides and providing vital aid during Hurricane Ian.
Amanda recounts three career-defining cases, including identifying a murder victim later found in a freezer and tracing a killer using just a Snapchat handle and a faint clue from 2018. Along the way, she offers insights into the evolving role of analysts, the power of networking, and the value of continuous learning. Whether you're a veteran analyst or just entering the field, Amanda’s story is an inspiring reminder of the impact a determined analyst can have.🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking! [Note: Description produced by ChatGPT.]Name Drops:Public Service Announcements: Sally Rawlings (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/sally-rawlings-the-teacher-extraordinaire/) Jaime LamannaRelated Links: https://www.sheriffleefl.org/ https://www.rff.com/ Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned: I2, RFFlowContact: ASienkiewicz@sheriffleefl.orgTranscript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/xcspfck8hv77af9b/AmandaSienKiewicz_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 Amanda00:12:36 – Embezzlement00:16:34 – Sexual Predators00:19:10 – ABS: Hurricane Ian 00:26:31 – ABS: Find the Freezer Homicide00:26:31 – Break: Sally Rawlings & Jaime Lamanna00:33:41 – ABS: Shooting in the Park00:43:03 – Advice00:50:38 – Personal Interests: Genealogy00:53:16 – Words to the World

Monday Jun 02, 2025
Analyst Talk - 5th Anniversary Special Episode
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Episode: 00269 Released on June 2, 2025 Description: In this special 5th anniversary episode, Jason Elder and Mindy Duong reflect on half a decade of Analyst Talk with Jason Elder. From launching five episodes in June 2020 to consistently publishing every Monday since, the duo recounts the journey that has shaped the podcast and the law enforcement analysis community.
They discuss the evolution of the show, including favorite segments like “Don’t Be That Analyst,” the rise of deep dive series, and the development of other shows like Cocktails and Crime Analysis. Jason and Mindy also explore recurring themes that emerged from hundreds of interviews—mental health, professional growth, imposter syndrome, and the importance of networking.
Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights, plenty of laughs, and a heartfelt thank-you to the guests, listeners, and volunteers who have made the show what it is today. Whether you’ve been here since episode one or you’re just joining the ride, this episode is for you.
📧 Got feedback or want to be on the show? Email LEApodcasts@gmail.com 📞 Leave a voicemail: 402 819 5327 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking! [Note: Description produced by ChatGPT.]This episode contains the call-in segment, Don’t Be That Analyst. Rachael Songalewski (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-rachael-songalewski-leading-with-intention/) Richard Browning (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-richard-browning-addressing-secondary-trauma/) Nikki North (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-nikki-nichole-north-%C2%A0real-time-crime-analyst) Heather Fairburn (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-heather-fairburn-the-fire-within/) Akiko McClain (https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-akiko-mcclain-exclamation-points-are-the-answer)
Name Drops: Kathleen Allen/Debbie Osborne/Paige Kenningale/Manuel Oteng/Seth Potts (00:04:26), Charlie Giberti/Kassie Langdon/Chris Delaney (00:30:00)Related Links: CT&CA Armchair IACA President: https://youtu.be/gcS9PJ_yrtQ Association(s) Mentioned: Vendor(s) Mentioned: Contact: Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/bqk4hkyzxxz7umbm/5thAnniversary_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 The Episode00:07:12 – Goals of Leapodcasts00:26:35 – Deep Dives00:30:00 – Cocktails & Crime Analysis 00:44:06 – Don’t Be That Analyst00:57:00 – BOLO: Leapodcasts Survey00:58:15 – Words to the World

Monday May 26, 2025
Analyst Talk - Before You Leap - Remember Your Self-Preservation
Monday May 26, 2025
Monday May 26, 2025
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.
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/mvbnxjmnsdi8egz9/BYL08_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

Monday May 19, 2025
Analyst Talk - Motion Commotion: Voting to Advance IACA’s Innovative Ideas
Monday May 19, 2025
Monday May 19, 2025
Episode: 00267 Released on May 19, 2025 Description: In this special Leapodcasts Deep Dive, host Jason Elder moderates a timely and thought-provoking panel featuring Mindy Duong, Noah Fritz, and Deb Piehl, centered on the IACA’s brand-new Innovative Ideas Forum. This episode explores the origins of the initiative, outlines the submission and voting process, and examines the motions that could reshape how the association governs, grows, and communicates.
Listeners will get the inside scoop on why this forum was created, how it aligns with IACA’s ongoing bylaws revisions, and what’s at stake with each submitted idea. From member engagement and motion thresholds to international representation and transparency, the panel debates the future of participatory governance in a global association.
The motions now up for vote will only move forward if at least 735 members vote in favor—a 10% threshold of the total membership. That means your vote matters. Even more important: encourage your peers to vote, share the link, and help make this process a success. These motions impact the entire membership, and the future of the IACA depends on active participation.
Whether you're new to the IACA or a longtime member, this episode offers a candid, constructive conversation on organizational evolution, and highlights the importance of creating space for member voices in shaping the future of our profession.
🔗 Explore the forum and vote on ideas: https://community.iaca.net/discuss/viewcategory/140
🗓️ Key Date: Voting Period Starts: Updated to May 21, 2025 Voting Period Ends: Updated to May 29, 2025 at 23:59 CST
[Note: Description produced by ChatGPT.]
Name Drops: Ritchie Martinez (01:06:55), Mark Stallo/Steve Gottlieb (01:14:22), Dale Harris/Christopher Bruce/Susan Hammen Whitford (01:18:22)Public Service Announcements: Related Links: Innovative Ideas Ballot: Updated to https://www.iaca.net/innovative-ideas IACA Innovative Ideas Forum: https://community.iaca.net/discuss/viewcategory/140 Association(s) Mentioned: IACAVendor(s) Mentioned: Contact: Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/nhhrmg7ike2aghff/IACAinnovativeIdeas2025_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 – Introduction00:02:00 – Background on the New Process Jason outlines the rationale behind the forum, how the initiative came about, and how members can participate.00:03:36 – Member Spotlight: Noah’s Role in Sparking the Forum Noah Fritz discusses his original inquiry to the Board and his first motion challenging the 10% voting threshold.00:08:34 – Optimism and Early Feedback Mindy and Jason reflect on the need for a longer timeline and improved visibility for future forums.00:10:54 – Member Engagement and Apathy Noah discusses voter turnout issues and the importance of consistent outreach and visibility.00:13:26 – Deb Piehl Joins & Shares Initial Thoughts Deb offers perspective on innovation, governance complexity, and the importance of intentional feedback structures.00:15:53 – Motion: Improve Motion Process (Not on the ballot. The process was reviewed and found not to conflict with the bylaws.) Noah proposes the development of a new online motion process, arguing that the current system conflicts with the IACA’s bylaws and established practices.00:16:10 – Motion: Creating a Working Group to Review the Current State of Affairs (Idea 7 on the ballot) Noah presents his second motion calling for a research-based member working group to evaluate member’s values and opinions.00:24:33 – Motion: Feedback Before Rule Changes (Idea 13 on the ballot) Jason introduces his motion advocating for a formal process allowing member feedback before new rules take effect.00:34:48 – Motion: International and Regional Access (Idea 3 & 5 on the ballot) Mindy summarizes five motions submitted by John Anteyi, covering exam pricing, global access, and leadership development.00:41:24 – Motion: Information Sharing and Transparency (Idea 12 on the ballot) Jason and panelists discuss the need for a member-accessible library of official documents and better communication.00:50:48 – Motion: First-Timer Buddy System (Idea 9 on the ballot) Mindy shares her motion to connect first-time conference attendees with returning members through a buddy program.00:56:42 – Motion: Open Committee Meetings (Idea 11 on the ballot) Jason advocates for allowing members to observe committee meetings to increase transparency and involvement.00:01:02:36 – Motion: Restructuring the IACA (Idea 8 on the ballot) Noah presents his proposal for a working group to examine governance reforms, representation, and paid staff positions.01:08:15 – Encouraging New Voices Mindy raises the concern of avoiding “usual suspects” and ensuring new and diverse voices are included in leadership efforts.01:13:58 - Motion: IACA Lifetime Achievement Webpage. (Idea 10 on the ballot) Jason presents his proposal for the creation of a webpage dedicated to the Lifetime Achievement Award process and recipients.






