Code Name: Siren

This week Nina and her producer Adam discuss the unique challenges faced by undercover operatives. Nina explains how quick thinking, attention to seemingly inconsequential details, and a compelling backstory can spell the difference between a successful mission and a catastrophic failure. Later, she shifts gears to a breathtaking recount of her undercover mission to a cattle ranch in the Australian Outback. Nina goes on to explain how the art of maintaining a convincing facade, gaining trust, and extracting vital information without blowing her cover was a delicate dance that required a lot of tenacity and resourcefulness.

This week Nina explores the impact of gun laws in the US vs the UK with her producer Adam. They delve into the complexities of American gun laws, the influence of lobbyists and the NRA, and the risks posed by untrained firearm owners.

They also discuss Nina's first hand experience with mass shootings and making sure her kids are aware of the potential threat in public spaces. 

This week Nina continues the conversation about the ever-changing roles between the media and law enforcement with Joel Waldman, award-winning former network news correspondent.

They discuss Joel’s experiences and insights and provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by those delivering the news. Inspired by his mother, Karmella, a Holocaust survivor, Joel shares his reflections on maintaining humanity and ethics while covering tragic events like the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

Later Joel talks about an interesting conversation he had with Carol Baskin during the height of Tiger King and they explore the possibility of applying Nina's investigative skillset to examine claims of alien life. 

This week Nina is joined by Joel Waldman, Emmy Award-winning former network news correspondent and host of Surviving the Survivor podcast. Joel shares his experience as the first producer hired at MSNBC and how that eventually led to him becoming a reporter.

They discuss how social media has democratized the way the public views criminal cases and how the Dan Markel murder case changed the focus of his podcast. 

They also take a critical look at the role of media in high-profile cases like the Menendez brothers and the O.J. Simpson case. Finally they delve into the troubling case of Ellen Greenberg, unearthing the corruption in Philadelphia and showcasing how media can spotlight mishandled cases.

This week Nina is joined by Raj Sharma, comedian and true crime superfan. They explore the many scenarios where humor is used as a defense mechanism to stay well in the face of adversity. Raj explains how he began using humor at a young age when disarming bullies, making friends, and navigating the cultural nuances of being the only Indian family in a Texan neighborhood. They also discuss the many instances in Nina's career where humor was a necessary defense mechanism in dealing with her phobia of dead bodies or being assaulted while delivering a death notification.