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