A stone’s throw from the White House, a tragic incident unfolded during an otherwise routine day of service.

Two young members of the National Guard were suddenly attacked, resulting in the instant death of one and leaving the other fighting for life in critical condition.

This week on Zone 7, host Sheryl McCollum invites Dr. Sunny Slaughter to discuss the events of that day and delve into the broader implications for leadership, communication, and the strength found in restraint.

The conversation sheds light on how hatred can take root, the life-and-death importance of effective communication, and the true meaning of serving with empathy, especially when the world seems to be unraveling.

About the Guest

Dr. Sunny Slaughter is a seasoned law enforcement instructor, expert witness, and crisis communication strategist with a focus on counterterrorism, extremism, and emerging threats.

As CEO of Sunny Slaughter Consulting and founder of the Sunny Slaughter Group, she helps agencies nationwide build crisis-ready leadership. A former military spouse and longtime advocate for justice and public safety, Dr. Slaughter has served as a U.S. Department of Homeland Security instructor and continues to guide federal, state, and local agencies in strengthening community resilience.

About the Host

Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an active crime scene investigator for a Metro Atlanta Police Department and the director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, which partners with colleges and universities nationwide. With more than 4 decades of experience, she has worked on thousands of cold cases using her investigative system, The Last 24/361, which integrates evidence, media, and advanced forensic testing.

Her work on high-profile cases, including The Boston Strangler, Natalie Holloway, Tupac Shakur and the Moore’s Ford Bridge lynching, led to her “Emmy Award for CSI: Atlanta” and induction into the National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame in 2023.

Social Links:

• Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com

• Twitter: @149zone7

• Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum

• Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

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Preorder Sheryl’s upcoming book, “Swans Don’t Swim in a Sewer: Lessons in Life, Justice, and Joy from a Forensic Scientist,” releasing May 2026 from Simon and Schuster.