Leaders Podcast

Leaders Podcast

The LEADERS Podcast is where industry trailblazers in investigations, law, and leadership share their stories, insights, and expertise. Hosted by Mike LaCorte, CEO of Conflict International, the podcast dives into the experiences and strategies of those shaping the future of their fields. Each episode provides actionable advice, fascinating perspectives, and unparalleled access to the minds behind groundbreaking work. Whether you're an investigator, legal professional, or simply passionate about leadership, the LEADERS Podcast offers invaluable lessons and inspiration.

  1. Oct 23

    Leaders Podcast Ep 45: How Technology & AI Are Reshaping Private Investigations | Kelly Riddle

    Episode 45 of Leaders Podcast, host Mike LaCorte sits down with Kelly Riddle, President of Kelmar Global Investigations, an investigative industry veteran with over 40 years of experience, 14 published books, and involvement in 25 professional associations. Recorded live at the Texas Association of Licensed Investigators (TALI) Conference in San Antonio, this episode explores the evolving world of private investigations, the growing influence of technology and AI, and why professional relationships remain essential to success in the industry. In this conversation, Kelly shares: How technology and AI are shaping the future of private investigations and industry conferencesWhy networking is one of the biggest reasons investigators attend professional conferencesHow professional associations help investigators build credibility, generate business, and elevate industry standardsAdvice for new investigators looking to enter the private investigation industry and develop their careersWhy in-person connections, trust, and professional relationships are essential for building a strong investigative networkHow conferences can evolve through interactive sessions, panel discussions, and more engaging learning experiencesHow writing books can establish expertise, strengthen professional credibility, and create new business opportunitiesWhy ethics, mentorship, and giving back to the investigative community matter Whether you're an experienced private investigator, an aspiring professional, or interested in the future of the investigative industry, this episode offers valuable insights into professional development, networking, and adapting to a rapidly changing landscape. 🎙️ Watch the full episode of Leaders Podcast to discover how technology, professional associations, and meaningful connections are shaping the next generation of private investigations.

  2. Oct 4

    Leaders Podcast Ep 44: Inside the World of Private Investigations | Brian Peebles | Mike LaCorte

    Episode 44 of Leaders Podcast. Host Mike LaCorte sits down with Brian Peebles, Founder of Vantage Point Investigations, a former federal law enforcement officer with 11 years of experience at Homeland Security who transitioned into private investigations. Based in Michigan, Brian specializes in criminal defense investigations, bringing his law enforcement experience and investigative expertise to cases where uncovering the truth can make all the difference. In this conversation, Brian shares: How his career in federal law enforcement led him to humanitarian work in Romania and eventually to starting his own private investigation agency The ethical dilemma investigators face: are they defending a client or uncovering the truth? Why finding evidence that could prove a client's guilt can create difficult conversations with attorneys The challenges of transitioning from law enforcement to the private sector and building an independent investigation business How private investigators and law enforcement can work together to tackle human trafficking and other complex investigations Why integrity, honesty, and dependability are essential qualities of a strong investigator The importance of networking, professional associations, and building trusted relationships in an often-isolating profession Whether you're a legal professional, an aspiring private investigator, or interested in the complexities of criminal defense and investigative ethics, this episode offers a fascinating look into the realities of private investigations and the responsibility that comes with pursuing the truth. 🎙️ Watch the full episode of Leaders Podcast and discover what it really means to seek the truth when the stakes are high.

  3. May 29

    Leaders Podcast with Mike LaCorte & Kitty Hailey – Episode 41

    In this episode, Mike LaCorte, CEO of Conflict International, sits down with legendary investigator Kitty Hailey to explore her remarkable five decade career in private investigations, wrongful conviction cases, and investigative ethics. Starting her career without a traditional law enforcement background, Kitty shares how curiosity, determination, and a passion for justice led her into the investigative world during a turbulent period in American history. Over the years, she built a respected investigative practice and became one of the leading voices in ethics and professional standards within the industry. The conversation explores her work on civil rights and wrongful incarceration cases, helping move more than 20 individuals off death row or out of prison entirely. Kitty explains the importance of uncovering evidence that can withstand scrutiny in court, and why thorough investigations before conviction are critical to preventing miscarriages of justice. She also reflects on the realities of working as a female investigator in the 1970s, the evolution of the profession over time, and how she used perception and adaptability to her advantage during surveillance operations. Alongside her investigative work, Kitty discusses writing the industry defining book on ethics for private investigators, which has become a standard reference across much of the United States. She also highlights the importance of professional associations, networking, and mentoring within the investigative community. A powerful and insightful conversation on justice, ethics, wrongful convictions, and the evolution of the investigative profession. Watch and listen hereYouTube: https://lnkd.in/dVvCVRG3Spotify: https://lnkd.in/e69QdVN2Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/emqXjsKiAmazon Music: https://lnkd.in/e2bDyJaU #LeadersPodcast #WrongfulConvictions #PrivateInvestigations #InvestigativeEthics #TrueCrimePodcast

  4. May 1

    Leaders Podcast with Mike LaCorte & Roger Bescoby – Episode 39

    Leaders Podcast with Mike LaCorte & Roger Bescoby – Episode 39 In this episode, Mike LaCorte, CEO of Conflict International, sits down with Roger Bescoby, Director of Client Relations at Conflict International and Second Vice President of the World Association of Detectives. With over 30 years of experience, Roger shares his journey into the investigative world, from working in his family’s retail credit business in Salford to building a career in surveillance and fraud investigations. He explains how early experiences tracking down debtors led to uncovering a natural ability for investigation, eventually shaping his path into the industry. The conversation explores his work in surveillance, tackling fraudulent claims, and managing complex international cases. Roger also discusses his leadership roles within Conflict International and the World Association of Detectives, and how global networks play a critical role in modern investigations. He offers insight into the challenges facing the industry today, including evolving privacy laws such as GDPR, and the ongoing gap between private investigators and law enforcement in handling large scale fraud cases. For those entering the field, Roger shares practical advice on the importance of patience, technical skills, and truly understanding the demands of investigative work. A detailed and experience-driven conversation on investigations, compliance, and the realities of the industry. Watch and listen hereYouTube: https://lnkd.in/dVvCVRG3Spotify: https://lnkd.in/e69QdVN2Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/emqXjsKiAmazon Music: https://lnkd.in/e2bDyJaU #LeadersPodcast #PrivateInvestigations #Surveillance #FraudInvestigation #RiskManagement

  5. Apr 17

    Leaders Podcast with Mike LaCorte & Eric Peterson – Episode 38

    Leaders Podcast with Mike LaCorte & Eric Peterson – Episode 38 In this episode, Mike LaCorte, CEO of Conflict International, sits down with Eric Peterson, founder of Peterson Investigations and Peterson Group Security, to explore the realities of modern day investigations and private security. With over 20 years of experience in law enforcement and private investigations, Eric shares how his career evolved into leading U.S.-based firms specialising in surveillance, executive protection, and complex fraud cases. His work spans workers’ compensation fraud, custody disputes, corporate misconduct, and high risk investigative assignments. The conversation dives into how the industry has changed, from advancements in technology and artificial intelligence to the increasing role private investigators play when law enforcement resources are limited. Eric explains the importance of combining digital intelligence with real world investigative work, highlighting that time on the ground remains critical. He also shares his approach to investigations as a “thinking man’s game,” breaking down complex problems into clear, actionable insights, while maintaining a strong focus on integrity and client trust. For those entering the field, Eric offers practical advice on mentorship, training, and the importance of developing curiosity, creativity, and strong listening skills to avoid tunnel vision. Alongside his operational work, Eric hosts The PI Files Podcast, where he speaks with industry professionals about real world cases and the evolving landscape of investigations and security. A detailed and honest look into the world of private investigations, risk, and modern security operations. Watch and listen here YouTube: https://lnkd.in/dVvCVRG3 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/e69QdVN2 Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/emqXjsKi Amazon Music: https://lnkd.in/e2bDyJaU #LeadersPodcast #PrivateInvestigations #SecurityIndustry #FraudInvestigation #RiskManagement

About

The LEADERS Podcast is where industry trailblazers in investigations, law, and leadership share their stories, insights, and expertise. Hosted by Mike LaCorte, CEO of Conflict International, the podcast dives into the experiences and strategies of those shaping the future of their fields. Each episode provides actionable advice, fascinating perspectives, and unparalleled access to the minds behind groundbreaking work. Whether you're an investigator, legal professional, or simply passionate about leadership, the LEADERS Podcast offers invaluable lessons and inspiration.

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