Fire Investigation INFOCUS podcast

Send us Fan Mail

In 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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

In 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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

In 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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

LIVE 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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

LIVE 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.

Bias Minimization Worksheet link: 

https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/mobile/folders/1e9rUVqyJK9a8HzFj-8w6b-WgyQ9Jt5rB?usp=sharing

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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

Live 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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

In 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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

In 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 determination

The 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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

In 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, Alabama

Montana IAAI 2026 Annual Training Conference — May 12–14, 2026 | Billings, Montana

Advanced Fire Dynamics at Eastern Kentucky University — May 19–20, 2026 | Richmond, Kentucky

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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast

Send us Fan Mail

Recorded 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), California
• IAAI ITC (International Training Conference) — April 27–May 1, 2026
• Georgia Fire Investigators Association Spring Conference — March 16–19, 2026 — Marietta (Cobb), Georgia
• Alabama Chapter FREE Spring Training — April 7, 2026 — Decatur, Alabama
• Montana IAAI Annual Training Conference — May 12–14, 2026 — Billings, Montana

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_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast