In this episode of Impairment Perspectives, Dr. Joey Jones sits down with analytical chemist Lauren Holliday to talk about non-linear career paths in forensic toxicology and beyond. They discuss her move from South Carolina to Boston for graduate school, early experiences in evidence accessioning and toxicology, and the mentors who shaped her growth with tools like GC-MS and LC-MS/MS. The conversation also explores her transition into environmental chemistry and pesticide testing at a wastewater treatment plant, highlighting how forensic skills translate across regulated laboratory settings.

In this episode of the Impairment Perspectives Podcast, host Joey interviews Jen Harmon—nationally recognized forensic science and public administration leader with more than 20 years of experience spanning toxicology, crime lab leadership, and policy work. Jen shares her journey from volunteering as a young intern at the Orange County Crime Lab to supervising forensic alcohol operations and ultimately overseeing multiple lab sections as an assistant director. Along the way, she reflects on leadership lessons, building high-trust teams, improving efficiency through Lean Six Sigma, advancing comprehensive drug testing and DUID programs, and translating lab data into actionable insights for stakeholders. The conversation also touches on her 2018 NHTSA Lifesaver Award, testimony before Congress, and her current focus on consulting, teaching, and helping the field connect science with real-world policy and safer roads.

This episode of the Impairment Perspectives podcast features a conversation with veteran law enforcement officer and Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Mike Teixeira. Drawing from decades of frontline experience, Teixeira shares how impaired driving enforcement has evolved—from the early days of minimal drug training to today’s standardized testing protocols. He discusses lessons from the field, report writing that holds up in court, courtroom testimony, and the importance of continual learning. The episode also emphasizes training, mentorship, and the mindset needed to excel in drug impairment detection and prevention