It's more common than you think - a missing persons report is made every 18 minutes in Australia, and over 2,600 people are missing right now. 

Val Smith is a 35 year veteran of Victoria Police and an expert in the elusive field of missing persons. Throughout his time in the force he created a set of rules; engagement techniques that should be used if your loved one is lost or unaccounted for.

After retiring from the force, Val is helping families and police track down those often lost through the system. Through the charity Footsteps in the Wilderness, he investigates cold cases, discarded situations or simply forgotten stories. 

Unpack it all with host Brent Sanders, as he talks to Val about his extensive career and those crucial steps to potentially save someone from going missing. 

For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.