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What does leadership look like when it’s built on resilience, curiosity, and an unwavering belief in people? For Susie Thomson, it looks like a career that has taken her from the ground floor of her family business to the top ranks of global background screening. She helped create Security Watchdog, guided its growth through acquisition, and today leads as COO of Matrix while shaping the global future of screening through PBSA. Now on track to become the first European Chair of PBSA, Susie’s story shows us how embracing change and empowering others can leave a lasting mark on an entire industry.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

• Early Career and Building Security Watchdog
• Leadership Lessons and Growth
• PBSA and Global Perspective
• Life Beyond Screening

Susie’s journey shows us that leadership is built on trust, humility, and the courage to embrace change. Whether it’s guiding a company through acquisition, stepping into global leadership with PBSA, or mentoring the next generation, her story is a powerful reminder that background screening isn’t just about compliance—it’s about people.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, and review the podcast. It helps us bring more inspiring conversations with leaders like Susie Thomson to the community.

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
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This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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What happens when you take four professionals from different corners of the background screening industry—each with unique expertise, bold ideas, and a willingness to shake things up—and put them together on one stage? You get disruption. In this special episode, I sit down with Andrew Cashman, Tressa Fullard, Kevin Horval, and Oakley Smith—four innovators who came together at PBSA Mid-Year to challenge the status quo and reimagine the future of screening. From rethinking applicant-driven data to reinventing occupational medicine and vendor processes, these “Disruptors” prove that progress starts with daring to ask: what if? This conversation might just change the way you think about background screening forever.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

1. Meet the Disruptors

2. Disruptive Ideas that Challenge the Norm

3. Lessons Learned & Career Milestones

4. Beyond Screening: People, Passions & PBSA’s Role

This conversation with the “Disruptors” is more than just talk—it’s proof that the future of background screening belongs to those willing to challenge the norm, ask bold questions, and embrace collaboration. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned veteran, the message is clear: dare to disrupt, get involved, and keep learning.

👉 If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more people who care about the future of screening.

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
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This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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What if the path you thought would be temporary turned out to be the foundation of a lifelong calling? That’s the story of Bobby Shank. With a degree in finance and even a chapter of life spent in Costa Rica, Bobby never expected that joining his family’s business, Roundstone, would anchor him in the background screening industry for good. What started as “just a job” became a career marked by resilience, vision, and leadership. Along the way, joining PBSA turned out to be the source of invaluable friendships and industry-shaping insights. His story is a reminder that the paths we don’t plan often lead to our greatest impact.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

1. From Temporary Stop to Lifelong Career

2. The Turning Point: Discovering PBSA

3. Challenges, Growth, and Industry Evolution

4. Lessons, Leadership, and Legacy

Bobby Shank’s journey reminds us that what starts as a short-term commitment can grow into a lifelong passion—and sometimes, the things we resist the most turn out to be the most rewarding. If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate, follow, and review Behind the Screens. Your support helps us bring more stories like Bobby’s to the industry leaders who need them most.

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
• Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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Imagine a professional who lives and breathes accuracy, thrives under the weight of compliance, and leads teams through constant industry evolution—then drop her into the challenging arena of public records and high-stakes client expectations. That’s Michelle Leblond, a master at turning complexity into clarity.

In this episode, Michelle takes us inside her journey from curious newcomer to trusted industry voice, sharing insights on evolving regulations, client relationships, and building teams that thrive under pressure. Her perspective will make you see background screening not as a behind-the-scenes process, but as a mission-critical force for trust and safety.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

• The Early Path and First Steps
• Operational Excellence and Compliance Challenges
• Industry Engagement and Leadership
• Reflections, Advice, and the Road Ahead

Michelle Leblond’s story is a powerful reminder that success in background screening isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about setting the pace. From mastering compliance to leading through complexity, her approach proves that precision, adaptability, and vision are the keys to thriving in this industry. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting your journey, Michelle’s insights offer both inspiration and a practical blueprint for growth.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review Behind the Screens on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us bring more incredible stories and industry wisdom to professionals like you. And of course—share this episode with a colleague who could use a dose of Michelle’s expertise.

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
• Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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How does a criminal defense attorney end up transforming the background screening industry? In this special 40th episode, I take a turn in the guest seat to share my unexpected journey—from representing clients in the courtroom to founding Employment Screening Resources and writing one of the earliest FCRA compliance manuals. Along the way, I learned that doing things right isn't just good law—it's good business. If you've ever wondered how passion, persistence, and a little bit of legal curiosity can shape an entire field, this episode pulls back the curtain. This one’s personal—and you won’t want to miss it.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

1. Becoming "The Godfather" of Background Screening

2. Founding PBSA and Shaping the Field

3. From Legal Practice to Industry Leadership

4. Personal Reflections, Industry Evolution & What’s Next

If you found this episode insightful, informative, or inspiring, I’d love for you to help spread the word. Rate the podcast, leave a review, and hit that follow button so you never miss an episode, whether you’ve been in the industry for decades or are just dipping your toes in—thanks for being part of the conversation.

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
• Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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What kind of person can turn a local startup into a global standard-setter—navigating legal landscapes, scaling teams, and staying human through it all? That’s the kind of trailblazing journey we explore in this episode. 

In this episode of Behind the Screens, I had the privilege of sitting down with Summa McCosker, a dynamic force in the background screening world, whose 27-year journey from a tiny retail job in a fishing village to becoming the APAC Chair of PBSA is nothing short of remarkable. We explore her path through startups, global leadership, and the power of saying yes to unexpected opportunities. Summa shares the wins, the failures, the clairvoyant doubts she crushed, and the deep “why” behind her commitment to compliance, education, and global progress. This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, strategic vision, and how passion can turn into purpose—even with two teenage sons, a cat, and a teapot collection in the background. You don’t want to miss this.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

1. From Small-Town Start to Global Impact

2. Building, Selling, and Scaling with Vision

3. Education, Privacy, and PBSA Leadership

4. True Crime, Teapots, and Life Beyond Screening

Summa’s story reminds us that the background screening industry thrives on resilience, curiosity, and community. If you’re just starting out or wondering where this career path can take you—her journey is proof that it can be as rewarding as it is unpredictable.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review Behind the Screens. Every review helps us bring these behind-the-scenes conversations to a wider audience. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
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• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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Can one person transform background screening by mastering compliance, reshaping operations, championing public access, and still give back through mentorship and public service? Meet the man doing exactly that, and discover how leadership is built one deliberate choice at a time.

In this episode, I sit down with someone I’ve known since the earliest days of background screening, a man who has quietly and powerfully helped shape the profession: Curt Schwall. From founding Screening University to leading government relations efforts that gave our industry a voice on Capitol Hill, Curt’s influence runs deep. We dive into his career journey, his passion for education, and the personal principles that have guided his rise. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned professional, this episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and hard-won lessons. Trust me, you’re going to want to take notes.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

1. Building a Career in Background Screening

2. The Vision Behind Screening University

3. From Capitol Hill to Industry Advocacy

4. Chasing Wow Moments – On and Off the Clock

Curt Schwall has never been one to seek the spotlight, but make no mistake, his contributions have helped shape the background screening profession from the ground up. From live education to federal advocacy, he’s a rare combination of strategist, teacher, and trailblazer. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a real leader in our industry, this is the episode to hear.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review "Behind the Screens" wherever you listen to podcasts.

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
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• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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What does it take to shape an entire industry from the inside out—while mastering compliance, leading operations, and serving the public good? It takes vision, grit, and a whole lot of hats—and this episode is proof of exactly that. 

In this episode, I sit down with Nancy Alt, founder of Tweak the Core, who’s spent decades navigating complex mergers, standing up massive federal contracts like TSA screening, leading PBSA initiatives, and championing consumer protection—all while infusing heart and integrity into everything she does. From clowns to compliance, Nancy’s journey is unlike any other. What she’s learned will not only inspire you—it will change the way you think about leadership, purpose, and the true power of listening.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

1. Laying the Groundwork: From Utilities to Screening Consultant

2. Growing With the Industry: Saying Yes, Wearing Hats

3. Compliance, Accreditation & Advocacy: PBSA and the Power of Process

4. Human Moments: Giving Back, Listening, and Loving the Work

Nancy Alt is a powerhouse of insight, warmth, and impact—proving that a successful background screening career can be built on a foundation of hard work, learning, and heart. Whether you’re in compliance, operations, legal, or leadership, this episode is packed with lessons that matter.

If you found this conversation valuable, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review the podcast wherever you listen.

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
• Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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What do you get when you combine relentless curiosity, unmatched versatility, and a passion for people? You get Dawn Standerwick—a powerhouse in the background screening industry whose career defies simple titles. From onboarding and marketing to compliance and criminal records, she’s worn every hat and rocked them all. In this episode, I sit down with someone who didn’t just adapt to change—she anticipated it, shaped it, and inspired an entire industry to keep up. Dawn shares her journey from newspaper job listings to leading PBSA, her reflections on mentorship and leadership, and even her unexpected second act as a farmer in the mountains of Colorado. Trust me—if you think you’ve heard it all in background screening, you haven’t until you’ve heard from Dawn.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

1. Early Industry Roots & Grit

2. Reinvention, Regulation & Resilience

3. Leadership, Mentorship & PBSA Impact

4. Mountains, Meaning & Moving Forward

If you’re navigating the background screening industry—or looking to lead in any professional setting—this episode is a masterclass in growth, grit, and gratitude. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Dawn Standerwick, a true architect of our field.

👉 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to rate, follow, and leave a review.

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• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
• Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

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How do you transform operations, compliance, and public records into a career you love—and lead others to love it too? 

Kathleen Nottingham didn’t just find her path in background screening; she built it brick by brick, puzzle by puzzle, from public record researcher to SVP at ScoutLogic and a seat on the PBSA Board of Directors. In this episode, Kathleen shares the behind-the-scenes realities of managing compliance in a rapidly changing industry, the power of internal networking, and why the toughest cases are the most rewarding. Her insights into leadership, mentorship, and managing up are as practical as they are inspiring. If you think background screening is just about data, Kathleen will change your mind—and maybe your approach.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

1. From Public Records to the PBSA Board

2. Mastering Compliance in an Evolving Industry

3. Operations, Leadership, and the Power of Recognition

4. Mentorship, PBSA, and Lifelong Learning

Kathleen Nottingham proves that curiosity, compassion, and continuous learning are a powerful formula for impact. Whether you're leading a team or just getting started in the screening industry, her wisdom is a masterclass in navigating change with heart. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast on your favorite platform—and don’t forget to connect with us on LinkedIn to join the conversation.

Connect with US:

• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
• Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/