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