Fed Time Stories

David Brant & John Gill
  • 5.0 (9)
  • GOVERNMENT
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Welcome to Fed Time Stories, the podcast that unveils the secrets and stories of those who have dedicated their careers to serving in federal agencies from the FBI and Secret Service to NCIS, CIA, and beyond.Your hosts, John Gill and Dave Brant, the former Chief of Security for the White House and former Head of NCIS, guide you through untold tales of those who have walked the halls of federal government, law enforcement, military, and security. Through engaging conversations with strong personalities and distinguished guests, we offer a unique blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and profound revelations.Whether you're in law enforcement, public safety, or simply fascinated by the world of federal service, you’ll find inspiration, advice, and insights into career transitions and overcoming life's most challenging moments.Join us as we sit down with high-profile guests who have held some of the highest positions in our federal government. Their unique perspectives and extraordinary stories will captivate and inspire you.Fed Time Stories is your backstage pass to the intriguing world of federal service. Tune in for stories that will entertain, educate, and empower.Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution for corporate security, law enforcement, and government agencies – Kaseware is your path from case management to case closed. Learn more at kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

  1. 2H AGO

    From Secrets to Open-Source: Jane van Tienen on Intelligence, Leadership, and Global Security

    In this episode of Fed Time Stories, Dave Brandt and John Gill sit down with Jane van Tienen, Chief Intelligence Officer at OSINT Combine, to explore her journey from the Australian national security community to the forefront of open-source intelligence in the private sector. Drawing on 24 years of experience, Jane reflects on her career journey, the growing importance of OSINT, and how intelligence derived from publicly and commercially available information is reshaping modern security. The discussion explores how AI can strengthen OSINT workflows while still requiring strong human tradecraft, ethics, and governance to be effective. Jane also shares her perspective on the Bondi Beach attack, the challenges security agencies face when threats emerge without clear warning signs, and why the absence of intelligence does not mean the absence of risk. Beyond security and intelligence, the episode also touches on mentorship, community engagement, and the importance of investing in young people to build confidence, agency, and critical thinking. Along the way, Jane offers thoughtful reflections on the cultural differences between Australia and the United States and what those differences reveal about leadership, security, and public safety. Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

    43 min

  2. 12/16/2025

    From Law Enforcement to the Boardroom with Brian K. Tuskan

    In this episode of Fed Time Stories, hosts Dave Brant and John Gill sit down with Brian K. Tuskan, a law enforcement veteran turned Fortune 500 chief security officer, to explore a career defined by adaptability, risk-taking, and an early embrace of technology. Brian reflects on his formative years as a police officer and detective, where leveraging emerging technology helped him stand out, earn sought-after assignments, and rethink how investigations could be done more efficiently. The conversation follows Brian’s pivotal decision to leave law enforcement and transition into corporate security at a time when few were willing to take that leap. He shares candid insights on what it means to go “all in,” the cultural and mindset shifts required to succeed outside government, and why understanding business is just as critical as understanding security. Brian also discusses his leadership journey within global organizations, the evolution of the chief security officer role, and how technology—including today’s rapid advances in AI—continues to reshape security, risk, and opportunity. Throughout the episode, he offers thoughtful advice for professionals at every stage of their careers who are considering what comes next. Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

    53 min

  3. 10/09/2025

    Solving Cases Across Decades: Pete Hughes on Cold Case Investigations

    Cold cases test the patience, persistence, and creativity of any investigator. Few know this better than Pete Hughes. In this episode of Fed Time Stories, hosts Dave Brant and John Gill talk with Pete about his four decades in law enforcement, from his early years as a patrol officer to his leadership role at NCIS. Pete shares how he helped shape the agency’s cold case program and the unique methods investigators use when re-examining unsolved crimes years later. He also reflects on one of his most challenging investigations, a decades-old disappearance that had long been considered unsolvable, and how determined investigative work ultimately brought long-awaited resolution for a grieving family. Beyond cold cases, Pete discusses his later work uncovering fraud and corruption in Afghanistan and at MITRE, showing how the same skills and values carried across each stage of his career. Tune in for an inside look at investigative persistence, lessons from decades of service, and what it takes to bring closure after so many years. Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

    1h 1m

  4. 08/12/2025

    What Comes After Service: Richard Thompson’s Journey from British Officer to Security Leader

    In this episode of Fed Time Stories, hosts Dave Brant and John Gill welcome Richard Thompson, former British Army officer, UK diplomat, chief of police, and co-founder of ARX Partners. As the podcast’s first guest from outside the U.S., Richard shares lessons learned from decades of public service in the UK and abroad. From leading troops in Hong Kong and Northern Ireland to working through the legal and ethical challenges of Iraq, Richard reflects on how a commitment to public service shaped a career across military, diplomatic, and law enforcement roles. The conversation explores his transition into leadership roles beyond his original field, including being appointed to head a national UK police force — the first time in decades the role went to someone from outside traditional policing. The episode also looks at Richard’s move into the private sector and the founding of ARX Partners. He explains how risk management has been a consistent focus throughout his career and shares his perspective on leadership, emphasizing the importance of humility, emotional intelligence, and having a clear sense of purpose. Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

    43 min

  5. 06/08/2025

    Catrina Bonus on Public Service, Private Sector Lessons, and Advancing Women in Federal Law Enforcement

    How do you rise to the top of one of the most elite law enforcement agencies—and then use that platform to uplift others? In this episode of Fed Time Stories, hosts John Gill and Dave Brant sit down with Catrina Bonus, a trailblazing public safety leader whose 27-year career with the U.S. Secret Service culminated in her becoming the first female Deputy Chief in the history of its Uniformed Division. From securing the White House to mentoring the next generation, Catrina shares how grit, humility, and an unshakable sense of purpose shaped every chapter of her career. Now serving as President and CEO of Women in Federal Law Enforcement (WIFLE) and as VP of Public Safety at the University of Maryland Medical Center, Catrina reflects on the personal sacrifices, policy battles, and quiet breakthroughs that continue to define her work. She also opens up about her transition to the private sector—and why the “soft skills” honed in government service are more powerful than people realize. Tune in to hear how one woman broke down barriers, rewrote the playbook, and is still finding new ways to serve. Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

    32 min

  6. 04/15/2025

    Behind the Medal: Inside the Carnegie Hero Fund with Eric Zahren

    The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission has honored over 10,000 civilian heroes since 1904—ordinary people who risk their lives to save others in extraordinary moments. From water rescues to acts of courage that end in tragedy, each story is carefully investigated and recognized with one of the highest civilian honors in North America: the Carnegie Medal. In this episode of Fed Time Stories, hosts John Gill and Dave Brant speak with Eric Zahren, President of the Carnegie Hero Fund and a retired US Secret Service agent, about what it takes to identify and honor true acts of heroism. With over 1,000 nominations a year and only 10% awarded, the process is rigorous, and the impact is lasting. From financial support to scholarships and posthumous recognition, the Hero Fund’s work goes far beyond a single moment of bravery. Throughout the conversation, Eric reflects on the values that shaped his career—pride, humility, and respect—and how they continue to guide his work recognizing the quiet courage of everyday people who step up in life-or-death situations. Tune in to hear how a former federal agent found a second mission in spotlighting the best of humanity—and why that work is more important than ever. Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

    42 min

  7. 03/10/2025

    From FBI Cases to Campus Safety: Shayne Buchwald-Nickoles on Navigating Change

    A career in law enforcement is rarely a straight path—it’s full of unexpected opportunities, challenges, and transitions. In this episode of Fed Time Stories, John Gill and Dave Brant sit down with Shayne Buchwald-Nickoles to discuss her 21-year career with the FBI, where she worked everything from violent crime and fugitive investigations to human intelligence and public affairs. Shayne shares how she navigated major career shifts, why she took on media relations alongside her investigative work, and how she spearheaded an FBI community outreach initiative in Baltimore. She also talks about the moments that shaped her journey—from her first days at the Academy to tackling some of the most complex cases in her career. Along the way, she found that success in law enforcement wasn’t just about solving cases—it was about adapting, learning, and finding new ways to serve the community. Now serving as the Deputy Chief of Investigations at Johns Hopkins, Shayne discusses the skills she carried over from her FBI career, the learning curves of stepping into new roles, and why staying open to change is key in both law enforcement and life. Tune in for a candid look at career evolution, public safety, and the realities of making big transitions. Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

    39 min

  8. 02/10/2025

    How to Spot Danger Before It Strikes: Matt Doherty on Threats In the Workplace

    How can workplaces better identify and prevent acts of violence before they happen? In this episode of Fed Time Stories, hosts John Gill and Dave Brant sit down with Matt Doherty, managing director of Workforce Risk Management at Sikich and former Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center. Matt played a key role in shaping modern threat assessment strategies, moving beyond outdated profiling methods to focus on behavioral indicators that can prevent violence before it happens. He shares how his team pioneered investigative techniques that have since become essential in workplace violence prevention, and why organizations still struggle to implement effective policies today. From high-stakes cases to lessons learned inside the Secret Service, Matt reveals what businesses, law enforcement, and everyday citizens need to know to stay ahead of emerging threats. Tune in to hear why warning signs are often missed, how early reporting can save lives, and how law enforcement’s approach to threat mitigation is evolving. Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to Fed Time Stories, the podcast that unveils the secrets and stories of those who have dedicated their careers to serving in federal agencies from the FBI and Secret Service to NCIS, CIA, and beyond.Your hosts, John Gill and Dave Brant, the former Chief of Security for the White House and former Head of NCIS, guide you through untold tales of those who have walked the halls of federal government, law enforcement, military, and security. Through engaging conversations with strong personalities and distinguished guests, we offer a unique blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and profound revelations.Whether you're in law enforcement, public safety, or simply fascinated by the world of federal service, you’ll find inspiration, advice, and insights into career transitions and overcoming life's most challenging moments.Join us as we sit down with high-profile guests who have held some of the highest positions in our federal government. Their unique perspectives and extraordinary stories will captivate and inspire you.Fed Time Stories is your backstage pass to the intriguing world of federal service. Tune in for stories that will entertain, educate, and empower.Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution for corporate security, law enforcement, and government agencies – Kaseware is your path from case management to case closed. Learn more at kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast

Information

  • Creator
    David Brant & John Gill
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Fed Time Stories
  • Show Website
    Fed Time Stories