Fire Investigation INFOCUS podcast
Welcome to the Fire Investigation INFOCUS podcast, where we dive deep into the fascinating world of origin and cause investigations. Join hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens, experienced fire investigators, as they discuss all things fire investigation from the latest techniques, case studies, and challenges faced by professionals in this critical field. Through a community effort, this podcast aims to create a platform for investigators to learn from one another and grow together. Whether you're a seasoned investigator, a first responder, or simply curious about the science behind fire investigations, this bi-weekly podcast will provide valuable insights, expert interviews, and practical tips to enhance your knowledge and skills. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in fire investigation and join the conversation.
Fire Investigation INFOCUS podcast
S.3 Ep.4- Building a Successful Fire Investigation Unit: Workflows, Culture, and Results
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
In this episode, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens are joined by Fire Investigators Bill Strohm and Oliver Gillespie to explain how their fire investigation unit operates and why their structure leads to strong case outcomes. They break down the roles of shift investigators, who handle origin and cause, evidence collection, and witness interviews at active scenes, and day-shift investigators, who manage follow-ups, warrants, law enforcement coordination, and case preparation for prosecution. The team discusses how having two investigators on scene helps reduce bias and strengthen findings, the importance of building relationships with partner agencies, and how persistence and collaboration support long-term arson investigations. The episode closes with practical advice for solo investigators on capturing perishable information, staying disciplined with the scientific method, and communicating technical concepts clearly in court.
Upcoming Trainings & Dates:
- New Mexico IAAI Annual Training Conference — February 23–27, 2026 (Albuquerque, NM)
- California Conference of Arson Investigators Training Seminar — February 23–26, 2026 (CA)
- Fire Investigation 1A (Miramar College) — March 9–13, 2026 (San Diego, CA)
- Georgia Fire Investigators Association Spring Conference — March 16–19, 2026 (Marietta, GA)
- Alabama Spring Training (Free) — April 7, 2026 (Decatur, AL)
- IAAI International Training Conference (ITC) — April 26–30, 2026 (St. Louis, MO)
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