#118: Collins' Speech at the IAI 2026 Conference in St. Louis

In this special episode of Critical Victories, John Morrey Collins shares his keynote address delivered at the 2026 Annual Educational Conference of the International Association for Identification in St. Louis. Drawing from the principles explored in his book Valid Comparisons, Collins examines the growing controversy surrounding forensic pattern evidence, the meaning of scientific validity, and the consequences of labeling long-established forensic disciplines as "junk science." More importantly, he challenges forensic professionals to understand the scientific foundations of their work, acknowledge the genuine possibility of error without surrendering confidence in sound methods, and accept their responsibility to speak with clarity, courage, humility, and integrity when they carry science into the courtroom. YOUTUBE CHANNELS Main Podcast Channel Highlights Channel ABOUT YOUR HOST John Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach who specializes in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring from his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, "The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge," which is available in print and audio. John's many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master's degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan. For more books and other information, please visit www.criticalvictories.com.