In a world increasingly preoccupied with the nuances of human behavior, one podcast emerges to cast light on some of society’s most pressing and dark issues. Hosted by Stephen M. Thompson, an author, consultant, and criminal profiler renowned for his deep dives into the human psyche, this new auditory venture promises to be both groundbreaking and revelatory. Power & Control with Stephen M. Thompson focuses on sexual aggression, threat assessment, and related themes and is based on Thompson’s decades of experience as a consultant and profiler. Thompson has interviewed hundreds of offenders, giving him a unique insight into the predator psyche.
Thompson’s career has been marked by a relentless pursuit of truth and understanding, often delving into areas most would shy away from. It is this fearless approach that has garnered him respect as an assault investigation consultant and criminal profiler for police and military agencies throughout the USA.
Now, turning his attention to the podcast medium, Thompson aims to leverage his extensive knowledge and experience to shed light on complex issues that affect countless lives yet remain shrouded in silence or misunderstanding.
Power & Control with Stephen M. Thompson is an informative podcast from the author of No Zebras! Engaging Bystanders in the Movement to End Sexual Aggression.
Retired from Central Michigan University as Associate Professor and Sexual Aggression Services Director, Thompson is also a court-qualified expert witness who has consulted with multiple agencies and the media on some of the country’s most public cases. While at Central Michigan University, Thompson established the first university peer-to-peer advocacy program in the country.
Thompson wrote the most comprehensive behavioral analysis of familiar sexual predators titled “Date/Acquaintance Rape – The Crime and Criminal Profile” in the scholarly journal Campus Law.
JUST A FEW OF THE TOPICS THOMPSON TACKLES:
The Bystander Phenomenon. How to look for PINS (Pre-Incident Indicators). How can the bystander effect be ended, and when does a situation merit intervention?
Man or Bear. It’s a viral phenomenon. When asked whether they’d rather run into a bear or a man in the woods, women overwhelmingly select … the bear.
Sean “Diddy” Combs. Powerful, dynamic, manipulative person who needs to be the center of attention. Will groom his target for a period of time before he escalates. He will have a history of objectifying women that generally is ignored by his potential conquests. One would have to be very confident to avoid the grooming and manipulation. A Diddy type evaluates potential targets first and only separates from the herd those with whom he is sure he can succeed. There is a very predictable sequence of behavior.
Power & Control with Stephen M. Thompson explores the host’s own experiences with survivors, predators, law enforcement, and other professionals in the field of sexual aggression. He shares stories from his role as an expert witness in multiple court cases. Thompson chats with special guests such as advocate, counselor, and shelter manager Brooke Oliver-Hempenstal, sharing her knowledge of Partner Violence. Dr. Kevin Carmody, a college administrator and Title IX director at a midwestern university joins Thompson to explore Title IX, the federal civil rights law in the United States that prohibits sexual discrimination in any school that receives federal funding. In other episodes, we learn about the “Nice Guy” predator, the basics of threat assessment with regard to school shootings and workplace violence, and hear the host talk with survivors about their emotional journeys and experiences with the legal system.
Thompson is the author of the book No Zebras! Engaging Bystanders in the Movement to End Sexual Aggression, has devoted himself to studying the many facets of sexual aggression for decades. He has interviewed prisoners, police officers, psychologists, doctors, and thousands of survivors. His unique approach is a result of over 40 years of research and street experience involving hundreds of interviews. He has presented over 1,500 programs dealing with sexual assault, stalking, relationship violence, workplace violence, threat assessment, and harassment throughout the country.
With decades of experience listening to the voices of survivors, advocates, law enforcement, and predators themselves, Thompson is uniquely qualified to provide knowledge and skills to eliminate the bystander mentality and actively participate in the fight to end sexual aggression.
“With most incidents of sexual aggression, there are people who suspect what is happening,” Thompson says, “yet, much like the helpless zebra, they watch while one of their own is harmed by a predator.” The new podcast will go beyond the book, giving even more knowledge and insight into sexual aggression, eliminating the bystander mentality, and providing the basics of threat assessment.
In 2012, Steve started No Zebras Productions, a unique program incorporating video and live presentation to educate audiences on issues of sexual aggression, bystander engagement, consent and harassment. No Zebras Productions has spent years traveling the world conducting programs for the Department of the Navy on sexual aggression and engaging bystanders. Today, No Zebras Productions is active nationally, educating college students on the realities of sexual aggression and bystander engagement.
In addition to the book No Zebras! Engaging Bystanders in the Movement to End Sexual Aggression, Steve Thompson also authored No More Fear (Kendall/Hunt Publishing Co.).
Power & Control with Stephen M. Thompson launched in early 2024 and is available on iHeart Media, Spotify, Amazon, Apple, Audacy and other podcast platforms.
“[Stephen’s] willingness to step up to the plate and expend his time and effort when a lot of people would say ‘it doesn’t pertain to me,’ restores my faith,” remarked John Hallacy, Calhoun County Prosecuting Attorney. This sentiment echoes throughout Thompson’s work—his unwavering commitment not only highlights his dedication but also inspires others towards greater societal involvement.
The podcast features a series of episodes each tackling different facets of sexual aggression and threat assessment. Through interviews with experts, analysis of case studies, and discussions on prevention strategies, listeners will gain a multifaceted understanding of these issues. Furthermore, drawing from his own experiences as an investigative consultant and profiler, Thompson provides unique insights that are both informative and thought-provoking.
One distinguishing feature of this podcast is its commitment to engaging content without sacrificing integrity or descending into sensationalism. In a landscape where media often crosses lines for viewership or clicks, Thompson’s approach is refreshingly respectful yet uncompromisingly honest. By addressing such topics head-on with sensitivity and expertise, the podcast endeavors not only to educate its audience but also to foster an environment where difficult conversations can occur.
Beyond mere discussion, another goal is actionable insight—empowering listeners with the knowledge they can apply in their lives or communities concerning safety protocols, awareness initiatives, or support systems for victims. The podcast serves as a bridge between academic research/field expertise and practical applications relevant to everyday life.
For those looking forward to joining this journey with Stephen M. Thompson at the helm can connect through social media at @stephenmthompsoncares or visit www.stephenmthompson.com/. Here lies an opportunity not just for passive consumption but active engagement—a chance for readers and listeners alike to participate in broader dialogues facilitated by each episode.
By venturing into these challenging terrains with grace and authority, Stephen M. Thompson does more than share knowledge; he invites us all into a collective reflection on our societal norms and responsibilities regarding sexual aggression and safety awareness—an invitation that could very well lead towards meaningful change.
Power & Control with Stephen M. Thompson is available now: iHeart Media, Spotify, Amazon, Apple, Audacy, Listen Notes, and more podcast platforms.
