DEVIANT

Latest Episodes:

Inside the Secretive World of Air Marshals Jun 20, 2025

Show notes

The person sitting next to you on the plane may be armed, and that's not a bad thing. In this episode of DEVIANT Off Script, host Dan Szematowicz delves into the secretive world of Federal Air Marshals with David Londo, President of the Air Marshal National Council. David shares his journey from a local police officer to becoming an air marshal post-9/11 and provides insights into the rigorous selection and training process. They discuss the history of air marshals, the changes in roles post-9/11, and the chaos and challenges in air travel post-pandemic. David also shares a gripping story from 2005 about a scary incident handled by air marshals. Tune in to learn more about the unseen guardians of the skies and their crucial role in ensuring the safety of air travel.

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Off Script: The FBI's Sleep Expert Jun 13, 2025

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Join Deviant host Dan Szematowicz for a conversation with Dr. Leah Kaylor, a psychologist and sleep specialist at the FBI. Dr. Kaylor shares a wealth of practical tips to enhance your sleep quality, from establishing relaxing bedtime routines to understanding the impact of body temperature and exercise. Learn how she helps FBI agents and law enforcement staff cope with trauma and sleep disturbances. Discover innovative techniques like EMDR and Brainspotting for managing nightmares and PTSD. Plus, get a sneak peek into her upcoming book 'The Sleep Advantage.' This episode is a must if you're looking to improve your sleep and overall well-being.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LEAH AND HER BOOK HERE: https://www.drleahkaylor.com/

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The Hunt for Grant Hardin Jun 10, 2025

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On May 25, 2025, Grant Hardin, a convicted killer and former police chief, walks out of the North Central Unit in Calico Rock, Arkansas, disguised in a makeshift guard uniform. His escape sets off an intense manhunt involving the FBI, state police, and federal agencies. In this episode of DEVIANT, host Andrew Iden delves into Hardin's dark history, including the brutal 2017 murder of James Appleton and a cold case sexual assault from 1997. Expert insights from former prosecutor Nathan Smith and corrections consultant Michael Cantrell reveal the challenges law enforcement faces in capturing such a dangerous individual. After more than two weeks on the run, Hardin is found less than two miles from the prison he escaped, raising critical questions about the facility's security. Also, a look at the complexities of manhunts and the serious threats posed by escaped convicts like Hardin.

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From Crack Wars to Crime Novels: Patrick O'Donnell's Journey Jun 06, 2025

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(AUDIO ONLY) Former police sergeant Patrick O'Donnell joins Deviant Off Script to discuss his 25-year career with the Milwaukee Police Department, his experiences during the crack wars and his transition to becoming a best-selling author. Patrick shares crazy stories from his time on the force, insights into his post-retirement life and his work helping writers accurately depict police procedures in their work. Patrick's also gives a taste of his new book, 'The Good Collar.'

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Witness to an Execution Jun 03, 2025

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Former journalist Michael Mayo recounts his experience covering the executions of two serial killers for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. Mayo details the emotional journey of interviewing victims' families, and witnessing the executions of Danny Rolling and Aileen Wuornos. He shares his perspective on the death penalty, describing the sterile and surreal atmosphere of the death chamber and reflects on the complex moral and ethical considerations surrounding capital punishment.

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Sex and Crime: Doug Fifer Has Seen It All May 30, 2025

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Sex is an integral part of human nature, but it sometimes intersects with crime in troubling ways. In this episode of DEVIANT Off Script, host Dan Szematowicz sits down with Doug Fifer, a former Anchorage Police Department officer renowned for his work in hostage negotiation and sex crime investigation. Fifer discusses his new book, '50 Shades of True Crime,' which delves into the psychology of sex criminals and the nature of sexual deviancy. From hostage negotiation scenarios to serial killers, Doug shares gripping insights from his 25-year career. He also talks about the importance of law enforcement and offers advice on personal safety and understanding fetishes and paraphilias.

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On the Front Lines of the Drug War May 23, 2025

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Brian Townsend, a retired DEA agent, shares his journey into federal law enforcement, his experiences with drug enforcement, nd his views on the ongoing battle against drug addiction in the United States. From his early days in Missouri and Kansas to his extensive work with the DEA, Townsend discusses the complexities of the drug trade, the process of joining the DEA, and the importance of empathy in addressing addiction. Tune in to hear about his career highlights, including high-stakes raids, the evolution of methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking controlled by cartels, and his current work in training, consulting, and public education on drug trends and prevention.

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The Download May 20, 2025

Show notes

We get a lot of questions and a lot of comments, so in this episode, DEVIANT hosts Dan Szematowicz and Andrew Iden tackles them all. How does DEVIANT get made? How do we choose stories? Do Andrew and Dan hate each other? Your questions and comments answered, and all will be revealed!

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Busting Motorcycle Gangs and White Supremacists May 16, 2025

Show notes

(2/2) In part two of our conversation with retired FBI agent Scott Payne, host Andrew Iden continues his deep dive into Steve’s years spent undercover in some of America's most dangerous circles. In part two, Scott delves into his experiences infiltrating white supremacist groups like the KKK and The Base. He reveals harrowing tales of close calls, murder plots, and the inner workings of these radical organizations. Scott also shares personal stories about the challenges and sacrifices of living a double life while maintaining his optimism about humanity.

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Undercover with America's Extremists May 16, 2025

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(1/2) In this episode of Deviant Off Script, we dive into the world of undercover law enforcement with retired FBI agent Scott Payne. Scott takes us through his incredible journey of infiltrating outlaw biker gangs, neo-Nazis, the KKK, and other extremist groups in America. He shares the psychological toll and personal challenges that come with living a double life, and provides a glimpse into his fascinating new book, 'Code Name Pale Horse.' This captivating conversation was so extensive and rich with stories that we've split it into two parts. Tune in for part one of Scott Payne's mind-blowing experiences in the field.

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