People Who Read People: A Behavior and Psychology Podcast FBI agent discusses interrogation tactics, body language, the lie detector, and more
Jan 31, 2026
Eric Robinson, a recently retired FBI agent and former pastor, shares lessons from 24 years investigating complex crimes. He talks about why rapport and empathy outperform aggression. He explores the power of silence and asking single questions. He critiques overreliance on body language, weighs polygraph use, and explains careful planning and partner signals in serious interviews.
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Ask One Question And Hold Silence
- Ask one clear question and then stay silent to pressure the subject to answer.
- Use the awkwardness of silence to prompt more detailed responses.
People Talk To Regain Control
- Guilty suspects often talk because they seek control after sudden arrest or disruption.
- Build rapport and offer information to let them regain agency and encourage disclosure.
Prefer Rapport Over Aggression
- Use friendliness, rapport, and empathy rather than aggression in interrogations.
- Avoid 'bad cop' tactics because they usually shut people down.
