Forensics Found

Ep. 26 Building Resilient Responders

In this special episode, host Katharine Pope shares her webinar "Building Resilient Responders.” Katharine, an experienced coach for last responders and death investigators, provides invaluable guidance on mental health, wellness, and community engagement for those in the demanding field of death investigation. Recognizing the immense stress and emotional toll this profession can take, Katharine offers practical strategies to manage burnout, improve sleep and nutrition, and maintain balance. This episode is not only a lifeline for current last responders but also a source of valuable insights for individuals considering entering this challenging yet rewarding career. We are thrilled to announce Forensic Found’s  new partnership with Gap Science! Through this collaboration, Katharine will be offering her comprehensive courses, starting with The Burnout Protocol, to provide ongoing support and education for last responders. Be on the lookout for all the courses coming soon at Gap Science to further enhance your forensic skills and personal wellness.    Links Mentioned In This Episode  Building Resilient Responders FULL WEBINAR [https://gapscience.teachable.com/p/the-burnout-protocol-with-forensics-found] 2024 IACME Training Symposium  [https://theiacme.com/page/2024TrainingSymposium] St. Louis University Masters Conference 2024 [https://www.slu.edu/medicine/pathology/masters-conference/index.php]   Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!   Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast [http://www.forensicsfound.com/podcast]    Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com [mentor@forensicsfound.com]    Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/]    FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in [http://www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in]   Connect on social! Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor [https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor] Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/ [https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/]    *All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.

Ep. 25 Life and Death on Forensics Found: How One Family Manages Life Surrounded by Death

We're bringing you a compelling conversation with Sandy Pope, a professor of education, as he offers a glimpse into his unique love story with a forensic anthropologist and death scene investigator who is none other than your host, Katharine Pope! Imagine meeting your soulmate in college, only to navigate a life that is entwined with a profession that studies human remains and encounters death on a daily basis. Quite the contrast to Sandy's role as an educator.    They dive into discussions around issues of oversight and mismanagement that plague both their fields, and the repercussions these have on their personal lives. Tight schedules, and demanding jobs, all while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy and connection. They talk about the importance of training and professional development. And discuss the struggles of balancing calendars and the adversities of having unconventional jobs.   But the discussion doesn't stop there. They unravel the dangers and emotional toll of working as a death scene investigator and the cruelly overlooked aspects of this profession. They talk about the need for recognition, the high rates of burnout, and the glaring lack of support and safety measures.    Join us in this final installment of the Forensics Found Podcast as we celebrate the professional achievements of this extraordinary couple, and share in the discussions of the day-to-day struggles of their unique professions.    About Sandy Pope Born in Austin, Sandy peaked as the number 53 ranked tennis player in the state of Texas but now prefers watching his son play flag football and his daughter act on stage. He's spent enough time traveling that birds on four different continents have pooped on him. Sandy is an associate professor of education at Salisbury University, teaching courses on social studies methods and spending time in local schools. He is also Director of the Institute for Public Affairs and Civic Engagement, leading a range of programs that help bridge the imaginary gaps between campus and community. An Us@250 Fellow with New America, Sandy has won the Outstanding Professional at a Social Studies Organization from the Maryland Council for Social Studies, Barbara Burch Award for Faculty Leadership in Civic Engagement from AASC&U, and Distinguished Faculty Award from Salisbury University. His first book, Becoming a Holocaust Educator: Purposeful Pedagogy through Inquiry, is available from TC Press.   Topics Covered Relationships and Abnormal Professions Challenges With Oversight and Schedules Challenges of Death Investigators, Support Needed Challenges and Misconceptions of Death Investigators Proud Moments and Professional Achievements   Mentioned in This Episode "Per the National Center for Education Statistics, across the nation 17% of teachers exit the profession within the first 5 years."   Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!   Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast [http://www.forensicsfound.com/podcast]    Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com [mentor@forensicsfound.com]    Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/]    Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0 [https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0]    Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com [http://www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com]   FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in [http://www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in]   Connect on social! Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor [https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor] Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/ [https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/]    *All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.

Ep. 24 Resilience in the Face of Death: Barry Hazen’s Story

In this episode, Kat interviews retired deputy Medical Investigator, Barry Hazen. Barry opens up about his career as a death investigator, highlighting the alarming increase in fentanyl use and the critical role of customer service skills in his profession.   They dive into the mental toll of such work, the necessity for professional detachment, and the power of resilience. Barry recounts his experience identifying a missing Native American man, showcasing the importance of his role in providing closure to grieving families.    Their conversation shifts to Barry’s time in Kansas City, Missouri as a medical examiner, where he faced realities of violent crime, gang culture, drug use, and infant mortality. Finally, Barry reflects on his tenure as a police officer in rural Missouri, discussing the unique challenges of rural policing.    This episode offers a deep dive into medical investigation, personal resilience, and rural law enforcement. Head to your favorite podcast player to listen to episode 24!   Topics Covered Retired Death Investigator's Medical Journey Investigating a Suicide, Finding Closure Working in Medical Examiner's Offices Navigating Rural Missouri at Night   Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive! Peer Support Email List [https://www.forensicsfound.com/] Privacy Agreement [https://forms.gle/KDzuqYR1i9xG2o16A]   Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast [http://www.forensicsfound.com/podcast]    Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com [mentor@forensicsfound.com]    Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/]    Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0 [https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0]    Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com [http://www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com]   FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in [http://www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in]   Connect on social! Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor [https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor] Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/ [https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/]    *All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.

Ep. 23 Unseen Impact: Understanding Death Notifications with Dr. Teresa ‘Lilly’ White

We've all experienced moments of loss and grief, but few of us ever consider the emotional toll it takes on those who deliver the news. Join your host, Katharine Pope as she interviews Dr Teresa “Lilly” White. Lilly takes us through her intriguing journey from the world of forensic anthropology to cultural anthropology, and in the process, opens up about a common aspect of the death industry—death notifications.   Lilly’s unique perspective, shaped by her studies at the University of Montana, her intensive research, and her challenging internship at a coroner's office, provides a fresh take on the emotional, physical, and mental complexities involved with death notifications. They touch on the responsibility, distance, and memories intertwined in these painful announcements.  Gain valuable insights into the subtle empathetic and compassionate nuances that are critical during such moments, and how they are more than mere one-time events - they involve delicate family dynamics that perpetuate long after initial contact.   As they discuss the path of Lilly's research impact on death notification training, they explore the profound emotional toll on investigators, and the crucial role of grace, decision-making, and bonding during these heart-wrenching times. Kat and Lilly also address the importance of effective coping strategies, reaching out to those who've experienced similar losses, and self-care in managing the emotional and physical challenges. This conversation is a deep dive into the living side of the death industry, and will undoubtedly make you reconsider how we navigate death and loss.   Topics Covered Exploring Forensic and Cultural Anthropology Death Notification The Impact of Death Notification Training Emotional Impact of the Death Industry Coping and Support in Challenging Times   Links Mentioned Peer Support Email List [https://www.forensicsfound.com/] Privacy Agreement [https://forms.gle/KDzuqYR1i9xG2o16A]   About Lilly White Dr. Teresa ‘Lilly’ White received her BSLS in 2005 from Montana State University-Billings where she focused on death, dying, and medical ethics. In 2011 and 2013, she graduated with high honors from the University of Montana, with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Forensic Anthropology. Her master’s thesis focused on factors affecting human decomposition including scavenging, mummification, variable microenvironments, and forensic entomology. In 2019, she earned her PhD from the University of Montana. Her dissertation focused on death notification interactions.   In 2013, Teresa and her husband Samuel (also a PhD in Anthropology) established Bone & Stone Anthrosciences, L.L.C. where they provide Anthropological & Archaeological Consulting Services and Educational Workshops/Webinars to clients worldwide. From 2015-2018, Teresa created and facilitated a Medicolegal Death Investigation Conference at the University of Montana, where she provided continuing education to hundreds of attendees.   Dr. White is a Medical Investigator and Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team (DMORT) member with HHS and NDMS, where she can be deployed for transportation accidents, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and pandemics such as Covid-19. Most recently, she was deployed to New Mexico to assist with covid deaths. Teresa also works with Kenyon International Emergency Services as a Family Assistance Team Member where she provides human-centered disaster response to victims and families. In 2020, at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, she was deployed to New York City, to assist them with transporting decedents to temporary morgues. She was also deployed with Kenyon to Florida. Dr. White has worked as an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Montana, teaching Fundamentals of Forensic Science. She is also an instructor for Tri-tech Forensics Training, where she teaches courses on: Cultural and forensic anthropology; human osteology; death notification interactions; human decomposition; forensic entomology; forensic discovery, documentation, and recovery of scattered human remains and burials; ethnographic methods including observation and interviewing techniques for investigators or researchers and other fascinating topics. Teresa is a member of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), the Association for the Society of Death & Society, the Dying and Bereavement Interest Group: A Special Interest Group of the Society for Medical Anthropology, Phi Beta Kappa Society, and Lambda Alpha.   Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!   Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast [http://www.forensicsfound.com/podcast]    Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com [mentor@forensicsfound.com]    Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/]    Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0 [https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0]    Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com [http://www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com]   FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in [http://www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in]   Connect on social! Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor [https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor] Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/ [https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/]    *All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.

Ep. 22 Exploring Forensic Anthropology with Gina Hart: A Gritty Journey from Death Investigations to Career Challenges

Happy Halloween! 🎃   Ready to uncover the mysteries of forensic anthropology and medicolegal death investigation? This enlightening episode shines a spotlight on the captivating world of forensic science, as we chat with our special guest, Gina Hart, a seasoned medicolegal death investigator and forensic anthropologist based in Louisiana. Gina takes us into her unique professional journey, starting from her academic days at LSU to her current role in the Jefferson Parish Coroner's Office. She offers a rare insider’s perspective on her deployment experiences with DMORT and compelling forensic anthropology cases.    This episode also delves into the gritty realities of the job market for anthropology graduates, stressing the importance of marketing oneself, networking, and securing mentors in the field. Gina founded the Society of Forensic Anthropologists, a professional group of practicing anthropologists. They collaborate to share casework, address needs, and seek continuing education opportunities. She lays out the necessity of cultural sensitivity training and comprehensive educational experiences that prepare students for the challenges of their future careers.    Whether you're interested in anthropology, forensics, or simply fascinated by the intersection of these fields, this deep dive with Gina Hart is a must-listen. So, brace yourself for an intriguing journey into the world of forensic anthropology and medicolegal death investigation.   Topics Covered Career Path in Forensic Anthropology (98 Seconds) Issues With Certification in Anthropology (96 Seconds) Forensic Work and Decomposition Smell   Links Mentioned SOFA [https://sites.google.com/site/forensicanthropologysofa/home]    About Gina Hart Gina Hart is a well-educated and experienced Medicolegal Death Investigator currently serving the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office in Harvey, LA. She began her academic journey at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with an emphasis on biological anthropology. Alongside this, she pursued a minor in Religious Studies. Gina then furthered her education at California State University, Chico, earning her Masters of Arts in Anthropology in 2001. Her master's thesis focused on the intriguing subject of Fracture Pattern Interpretation in the skull, particularly differentiating blunt force from ballistics trauma. In her role at the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office since 2016, Gina's responsibilities range from conducting death investigations and determining cases for the coroner’s office, to assisting pathologists in establishing the manner and cause of death. This involves conducting interviews, scene investigations, and contacting next of kin. Gina also plays a crucial role in disaster response both within her agency and in aiding other statewide agencies. Additionally, she conducts anthropological analyses at the request of the pathological staff. Gina's vast experience and in-depth knowledge render her an indispensable asset in her field. Hit the follow button; it's time to thrive, not just survive!   Podcast + Newsletter sign up → www.forensicsfound.com/podcast [http://www.forensicsfound.com/podcast]    Connect → mentor@forensicsfound.com [mentor@forensicsfound.com]    Free Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/471306163206486/]    Paid Community (monthly calls and support)→ https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0 [https://forensicsfound.thinkific.com/communities/Q29tbXVuaXR5LTM0NTA0]    Courses → www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com [http://www.forensicsfound.thinkific.com]   FREE Life Kit for Death Investigators: learn the six most important skills needed to prevent burnout and maintain focus on the job and at home → www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in [http://www.forensicsfound.com/life-kit-ebook-opt-in]   Connect on social! Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor [https://www.facebook.com/ForensicsFoundMentor] Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/ [https://www.instagram.com/forensics_found/]    *All conversations between guest and host represent the opinions of the participants and do not reflect official statements or facts from any represented agencies.