In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon and Oscar Santa Maria discuss the importance of a strong web presence. They debate surveillance protocols near places of worship, concluding that documenting arrival and departure is preferable to internal filming. They also promote Rory McMahon's 10 online continuing education investigative courses, highlighting its potential to enhance credibility and increase hourly rates for PIs. Rory also shares stories about narco-traffickers Ben Kramer's failed helicopter escape and Barry Seal's assassination by the Colombian cartel. They also discuss how to order merchandise and a 10% discount on Rory's courses through their website.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations discuss various aspects of the private investigation field, from marketing strategies and website optimization, to their personal experiences with social media platforms like LinkedIn and TikTok. They also share insights into specialized investigative services such as videotaping compulsory medical exams for attorneys. The episode highlights unusual and humorous stories from other investigators, including an amusing encounter during a domestic surveillance case at a gay club and a marine surveillance operation that uncovered both a worker's compensation fraud and infidelity. The hosts also promote educational resources and merchandise related to their podcast and the investigative profession.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations return with a focused discussion on branding, outreach, and professional growth within the investigative industry. Francois shares the excitement of launching his newly revamped website, emphasizing the role a modern, optimized online presence plays in attracting new clients. Both he and Oscar highlight the value of LinkedIn—not just as a platform for networking but as a strategic tool for building credibility and generating case referrals. This episode also introduces a new storytelling segment featuring memorable surveillance moments from the field. Francois kicks things off with a lighthearted account involving a case that took a bizarre turn when swingers unexpectedly became part of the investigation. The hosts reflect briefly on the personal sacrifices that come with the profession, especially the toll on family life due to irregular hours. They close by spotlighting opportunities for those considering a career in private investigation, directing listeners to their educational partner, IEIT, for licensing and training support.

In this special 50th episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations take a moment to reflect on the journey so far. From unforgettable guests to eye-opening investigations, they revisit standout moments, favorite episodes, behind-the-scenes stories, and lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a longtime listener or just tuning in, this milestone episode offers a deeper look at the experiences and insights that have shaped the podcast. Join us as we celebrate 50 episodes of real talk, real cases, and real private investigators doing what they do best.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations sit down with Rory McMahon of R.J. McMahon & Associates for the second part of their two-part conversation with renowned investigator Rory McMahon as they delve into Rory’s accomplished private investigative career. After years as a U.S. Probation Officer in both New York and Florida, Rory transitioned into private investigations, founding R.J. McMahon & Associates in Ft. Lauderdale over 35 years ago. In this episode, Rory shares stories from the field, lessons learned in high-stakes criminal and civil cases, and insights on how the profession has evolved. From complex drug trafficking conspiracies to corporate fraud, Rory’s casework spans some of the most compelling investigative challenges in South Florida. A nationally recognized instructor and author of several books on investigative techniques, Rory also reflects on the value of continuing education and professionalism in this field. Whether you’re a seasoned investigator or just curious about life behind the badge in the private sector, this episode is packed with wisdom, grit, and sharp perspective.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations sit down with Rory McMahon of R.J. McMahon & Associates. Rory has been a licensed Florida Private Investigator for over 35 years and is the President of R.J. McMahon & Associates in Ft. Lauderdale. A former U.S. Probation Officer in both New York and Florida, Rory brings decades of experience in criminal defense, corporate, and civil fraud investigations. He holds several professional certifications (CLE, CCDI, CFE) and has worked on numerous high-profile state and federal cases — including major drug smuggling operations involving murder and mayhem. Rory is also a seasoned educator, former department chair at City College, and a national speaker on investigative techniques. He’s the author of several respected books on professional investigations. Don’t miss Part 1 of this two-part series with one of South Florida’s most experienced and battle-tested investigators.

In this episode of The Miami PI Chronicles, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations are joined by special guest Joshua Hutchinson, owner of Hutch Serves, a professional process serving company based in Tennessee. Josh shares his journey into the world of process serving—how he got started, what motivated him to launch his own company, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. From dodging dogs to navigating difficult serves, Josh offers real-world insight into the unique challenges process servers face on a daily basis. Whether you’re a seasoned investigator, just entering the legal support services field, or simply curious about what it takes to get legal documents into the right hands, this episode is packed with honest advice, cautionary tales, and a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of the profession.  

In this episode of The Miami PI Chronicles, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations pull back the curtain on the unpredictable—and often surreal—world of private investigation. Francois kicks things off with a jaw-dropping story: getting accidentally locked inside a bank vault with a client and duffel bags full of cash and other valuables. From there, the conversation spirals into the strange modern hazards of surveillance, including the bizarre rise of "action selfies"—because apparently, standing still with duck lips is out. But it's not all war stories. The duo delves into the business of being a PI, sharing smart, practical strategies for marketing an investigative firm in a competitive field. They also explore the legal gray zones that every investigator needs to navigate: filming inside homes, digging through trash, and handling digital evidence while maintaining a proper chain of custody. The recurring theme? Know your federal, state, and local laws—or risk serious consequences. Whether you're an aspiring investigator, a true crime enthusiast, or just curious about the hidden world behind the headlines, this episode blends wild anecdotes with insight from two seasoned pros.

This podcast episode of the Miami PI Chronicles features hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations. The duo dives into The Wallet Saga, a comedic misadventure involving a missing wallet that turns into an unexpected detective tale with plenty of laughs along the way. They also tackle Website Woes, sharing their behind-the-scenes struggles with bots, SEO challenges, and the digital chaos that comes with maintaining an online presence in the investigative world. The episode takes a lighter turn as they pause to celebrate a special occasion with a birthday shout-out, to Francois’ daughter Isabella, adding a personal and festive touch. Finally, the hosts introduce Spy Spots—a new line of investigative products—highlighting useful tools and gadgets that PIs and enthusiasts alike will find intriguing. This episode blends humor, tech talk, and professional insight for both seasoned investigators and curious listeners.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations share an insider’s look into the world of private investigation. From humorous tales about  surveillance vehicles to the vital role mentorship plays in their profession, the conversation is both entertaining and insightful. The duo also introduces a new sponsor, Spy Spot, and highlights its innovative spy gear vending machine—bringing high-tech tools straight to the field. The tone shifts momentarily as Oscar reflects on the recent loss of a childhood friend, adding a heartfelt and personal touch to the episode. Things wrap up with a light-hearted but relatable story about a missing wallet—and the use of tracking tech to try and retrieve it. It’s an episode full of real talk, real laughs, and real-life detective work.  

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, host Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group sits down with Marc Hurwitz, former CIA operative and president of Crossroads Investigations, to explore the growing threat of online scams. They focus on romance scams, where fraudsters manipulate victims emotionally through dating apps, often moving conversations to platforms like WhatsApp to avoid detection. Red flags include refusals to meet in person or video chat, and requests for money under false pretenses. Hurwitz emphasizes the importance of tracing phone numbers, verifying identities, and never sending money to someone you haven't met face-to-face. The conversation also covers tech support scams, phishing attacks, fake e-commerce sites, and fraudulent real estate listings, particularly targeting elderly and international victims. Hurwitz warns against paying with cryptocurrency due to its untraceable nature and suggests safeguarding against fraud by using two-factor authentication, avoiding shared passwords, and reporting incidents to authorities like the FBI, FTC, and IRS. Both investigators share real-world cases, reinforcing the urgent need for public awareness and caution in today’s digital landscape.

Description: In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, host Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group is joined by guest host and last week’s guest Stephanie Prentice who specializes in Executive Protection. They are joined by special guest Nikki Burgett, a workplace violence prevention consultant and counter-terrorism contractor. Nikki shares her extensive background in corporate security and enforcement, highlighting the importance of prevention and behavioral pattern detection in addressing threats. She discusses her international work, particularly with the State Department's Anti-Terrorism Assistance Program and SPEAR in dangerous countries like Kenya. The conversation also includes insights from executive protection specialist Stephanie Prentice on the differences between male and female approaches to security and the psychological aspects of surviving violent incidents, which Nikki addresses in her book, "Surviving Violence." The episode emphasizes the need for preparedness and realistic self-assessment in personal and corporate safety. So sit back, listen and enjoy this episode.

In this compelling episode of The Miami PI Chronicles, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations sit down with industry expert Stephanie Prentice, a seasoned professional in the field of Executive Protection. Stephanie shares her personal journey into the world of private security, revealing the unique challenges and triumphs she’s faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry. From real-world experiences in the field to practical advice for aspiring professionals, this episode offers a rare and insightful look at Executive Protection through a fresh and powerful lens. Whether you're in the investigative field, curious about personal security, or passionate about breaking gender barriers in specialized careers, this episode delivers a wealth of inspiration and information.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations are joined by Teri Dervenis of Garrett Investigations. Teri discusses the emerging field of crypto investigations, sharing how she got started in the industry and offering insights into the rapidly growing cryptocurrency market—an evolution that is creating new opportunities and challenges for private investigators.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations break down the real-world techniques they use when following subjects to everyday locations like convenience stores, supermarkets, and shopping malls. From blending into crowded spaces to maintaining cover in close quarters, they share valuable tips straight from the field. The duo also responds to a listener’s email about what to do if you suspect your cell phone has been hacked, offering practical advice to help safeguard your privacy. Plus, Francois gives a behind-the-scenes update on the progress of his upcoming book, In the Eyes of Oxana. So sit back, tune in, and enjoy another deep dive into the world of private investigations.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations discuss the evolving landscape of private investigations. They explore the increasing role of social media in modern casework, the impact of artificial intelligence on private investigations. The conversation also touches on real-world surveillance challenges, including what to do if you suspect you've been burned in the field—how to recognize the signs, when to pull out, and strategies for regrouping without compromising the case. Wrapping up the episode, the hosts share a fascinating profile of legendary private investigator J.J. Arms, reflecting on his unconventional career, resourcefulness, and the legacy he's left behind in the world of private investigation.

In this episode of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations dive into essential topics for private investigators. They discuss effective strategies for responding to negative reviews, share their perspectives on Pet Detective services, and offer tips on maximizing time during surveillance. Plus, they explore techniques for sharpening your investigative skills. Whether you're an experienced PI or just curious about the field, this episode is packed with practical insights and expert advice you won't want to miss!

In Episode 36 of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations delve into the fascinating world of private investigations. They kick things off by sharing their favorite PI shows, discussing which ones most accurately capture the life of a private investigator. The conversation then shifts to essential business advice, touching on the importance of marketing your PI business and the need for clear, well-drafted contracts or written agreements to foster long-term relationships and prevent future misunderstandings. They also explore a selection of helpful apps that can streamline the work of modern-day investigators. Whether you're a seasoned PI professional or simply curious about the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights and plenty of fun!

In Episode 35 of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group (https://miginvestigations.com) and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations (https://optimumprivateinvestigators.com) take a nostalgic trip down memory lane. They reminisce about their recent visit to the Division of Licensing offices, where they renewed their investigator licenses. The process, they note, was almost seamless—a far cry from the early days of their careers, when the journey was filled with challenges and learning experiences. Along the way, the two share stories about a special old hangout that played a key role in their early days as private investigators. It was a place that not only provided a sense of camaraderie but also became a foundation for many of the lessons they carry with them today. Join them for a fun and lighthearted conversation as they reflect on how much they've grown, share laughter over past experiences, and give listeners an inside look into the evolution of their professional lives. Whether you’re an aspiring private investigator or simply enjoy hearing captivating career stories, this episode is sure to entertain and offer valuable insights into the world of private investigations.

In episode 34 of the Miami PI Chronicles podcast, hosts Francois McKinnon of McKinnon Investigative Group (https://miginvestigations.com) and Oscar Santa Maria of Optimum Investigations (https://optimumprivateinvestigators.com) delve into a variety of thought-provoking topics. They explore the ongoing debate over the relevance of daylight savings time, offer valuable insights on managing social media in the investigative profession, and take a closer look at the fascinating details surrounding the Gene Hackman death investigation. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends real-world experiences with expert knowledge from two seasoned professionals.