From forensic scientist to award-winning STEM innovator, Tina Treacy shares her inspiring career journey — the intuition that guided her path, the setback that nearly broke her business (and how she came back stronger), and why she's now on a mission to bring hands-on STEM and forensic science education to the next generation. Tina is the Founder & Creator of ThinkSafe Forensics (thinksafeforensics.co.uk), a former forensic scientist and lecturer, and a pioneer of accessible forensic education. Through ThinkSafe, she runs immersive CSI Experiences that put participants in the shoes of a real crime scene investigator — photographer, blood spatter analyst, trace evidence specialist, fire science expert, pathologist and more — using full PPE and authentic, research-backed investigative methods. Her workshops run for schools and colleges, corporate and community team-building days, CSI-themed parties (ages 7 to 99!), bespoke events, and her new CSI LEGO® sessions blending creative play with real forensic thinking. In this episode, Tina opens up about trusting her gut over the "safe" choice, the resilience it took to rebuild after adversity, and the creative workshops — including her wildly popular "Wine and Crime" forensic experience — that are getting young people excited about science. If you're curious about STEM careers, entrepreneurship, or what it really takes to turn a passion into a business, this one's for you. In this episode: Tina Treacy's career journey from forensic scientist to business ownerThe importance of following your passion and intuitionResilience through adversity and personal setbacksInnovative STEM education and forensic workshops for youthThe role of forensic science in safeguarding and educationInspiring young people to pursue careers in STEM and forensicsThe impact of hands-on learning and practical experiencesThe significance of self-belief and networking in entrepreneurshipFuture plans for STEM and forensic education podcastsMemorable quotes: "My experience of safeguarding and forensic medicine was the original inspiration." "Breaking my business almost broke me, but I recovered stronger." "When you find joy in what you do, you know you're on the right path." Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Tina Treacy and her background 01:55 – The journey from forensic scientist to business founder 05:03 – Following intuition and passion in career decisions 08:01 – Overcoming adversity and personal setbacks 13:08 – Innovative STEM workshops and youth engagement 17:56 – The 'Wine and Crime' forensic experience event 21:08 – Encouraging children and young people in STEM 23:57 – The upcoming forensic science and career podcast 25:05 – Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and STEM advocates About ThinkSafe Forensics: Step into the world of real-life crime scene investigation with ThinkSafe's immersive CSI Experiences and Events. In a single action-packed day, participants get hands-on with the roles of crime scene photographer, investigator, forensic scientist, blood spatter analyst, trace evidence specialist, fire science expert, pathologist and forensic medical scientist — wearing full PPE and using authentic equipment alongside current, research-backed investigative methods. Who it's for: B2B, Community and Corporate Groups – dynamic team-building aligned with ISO-recommended standardsSchools, Colleges, and Education Providers – delivered by a current STEM AmbassadorCSI-Themed Parties – perfect for budding detectives aged 7 to 99Bespoke Special Events – tailored experiences available on requestNEW: CSI LEGO® Events – 3-hour hands-on forensic workshops for children, adults, families, and gaming providers, blending creative play, strategy, and STEAM with real forensic thinkingFor more information or a personalised quotation, visit thinksafeforensics.co.uk Connect with Tina Treacy & ThinkSafe Forensics: Website: https://thinksafeforensics.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Thinksafeforensics Topics: forensic science, STEM education, entrepreneurship, resilience, career development, forensic medicine, youth engagement, STEM workshops, true crime, career inspiration Connect with your host, Ros Jones, Business Coach and Trainer: +44 7818 646 672 https://rosjones.co.uk Pause. Notice. Choose. 🌿 Helping leaders and teams develop self-leadership skills. Grow, perform and thrive – without burning out.
