In this episode of Inside the Polygraph, David Goldberg sits down with retired FBI Special Agent Eric Robinson to break down what life inside the Bureau is really like. With over 24 years of service, Eric brings firsthand experience from major investigations, counterterrorism, counterintelligence, informant recruitment, financial crimes, and sexual child exploitation cases, along with time spent on an elite FBI SWAT team. Eric walks listeners through the FBI hiring process step by step, from application and background investigation to interviews, physical fitness testing, the polygraph, and training at Quantico. He also explains what degrees and experience stand out to recruiters and why it is important to keep multiple career paths open. The conversation continues into life as an FBI agent, including how new agents are assigned, what early field training looks like, and how careers evolve across different types of investigations. Eric shares insight into working everything from drug cases to counterintelligence, highlighting the flexibility and demands of the job. He also dives into his experience on FBI SWAT, discussing tryouts, team dynamics, breaching, and how tactical teams coordinate closely with hostage negotiators during high-risk operations, giving a real-world look at how these missions are planned and executed. One of the most unique aspects of this episode is Eric’s background before law enforcement. Prior to the FBI, he spent over a decade as a Baptist pastor, and he explains how that experience shaped his ability to communicate, build rapport, and connect with people, skills that became critical in interviews and investigations. David and Eric explore the human side of law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of listening without judgment and understanding that even those who commit serious crimes still want to be heard. Eric also introduces his upcoming book, Irreverent, a memoir detailing his journey from ministry to the FBI, along with stories, lessons, and insights from his career. Whether you are interested in federal law enforcement, tactical operations, or real investigative work, this episode delivers practical insight and honest perspective. The information presented in this podcast is based on the real-life experiences and professional expertise of David Goldberg, expert polygraph examiner with Executive Protection Group Polygraph Services, based in Virginia Beach, and guest Eric Robinson, retired FBI Special Agent and former FBI SWAT operator. Connect with Eric Robinson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-robinson-9220053a4/ Instagram: @_eric_robinson 📞 Call David at (757) 495-1301 to get started now. Send us Fan Mail Support the show The insights shared on Inside the Polygraph with David Goldberg are drawn from real investigative experience and decades of professional work in criminal justice and forensic interviewing. David Goldberg is a certified polygraph examiner and founder of Executive Protection Group Polygraph Services, based in Virginia Beach. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes, offering clarity on deception detection, investigative processes, and the realities behind high-profile cases. If you or someone you know needs a professional polygraph examination, take the first step toward clarity and truth. Call David Goldberg at (757) 495-1301 to schedule a confidential consultation today.
