Fed Time Stories

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

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

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

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

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