E122 | Scott Beard

Episode summary | Scott Beard

Detective Inspector Scott Beard is one of the most recognisable faces of the New Zealand Police and is still at the top of his game after 42 years on the force.

He has worked on a number of high-profile cases throughout his career but is best known for leading the investigation into the murder of English tourist Grace Millane in 2018. The search gripped hearts and minds in New Zealand and thrust Scott into the international spotlight.

But he has also been part of several significant police events in New Zealand including the 1981 Springbok Tour, the 1984 Queen Street Riots, and Operation Stockholm and the investigation into the disappearance of Swedish tourists Heidi Paakkonen and Urban Höglin.

Despite dealing with death and tragedy on a regular basis, Scott’s outlook on life, his positive energy and belief in helping community is super inspiring and makes this one a compelling listen.

Show notes | Scott Beard

1:50: Titles are important: Detective Inspector Scott Beard, Scotty B, Beardy, Beardy’s dad

5:30: The Shrine

8:14: Feats of fitness past 50

12:36: Spending time at the FBI Academy at Quantico

17:25: 42 years in the police force

23:10: The 1981 Springbok Tour

27:34: The 1984 Queen Street riot

30:50: Joining the Criminal Investigation Branch

35:14: Operation Stockholm

43:37: Good cop, bad cop and the mystery of the who done it crime

47:16: The Grace Millane investigation

56:36: Breaking the news to the media after discovering Grace

1:02:29: Work life balance

1:08:14: Thoughts on leadership

1:12:27: Changes over the years: child protection and adult sexual assault

1:15:55: The global media interest in Grace Millane

1:19:27: A battle with cancer and the impact you can have on others

1:31:03: A life after the police force

1:32:28: Last words from Steve, Seamus, and Scott