Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed, Travis T. Wade.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To highlight Travis Wade’s transition from corporate HR leadership to entrepreneurship in the private security industry, and to share insights on leadership, hiring practices, and business growth strategies.

🧭 Outline of the Interview 1. Introduction

• Rushion McDonald introduces the show’s mission: inspiring listeners to pursue their own success stories.
• Travis Wade is introduced as a seasoned HR professional and founder of The Guardian, a private security firm.

2. Background & Transition

• Travis shares his 25+ years in HR, including leadership roles in New York’s banking sector.
• He discusses his pivot to entrepreneurship and founding The Guardian.

3. The Guardian’s Structure

• Three divisions:
  • Armed & unarmed uniformed security officers
  • Personal protection
  • Private investigations
• Operates in Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina.

4. HR Experience & Impact

• HR skills translated into managing people effectively in the security industry.
• Emphasis on understanding business operations across departments.

5. Hiring Philosophy

• Avoids traditional interviews; prefers conversational approach to reveal genuine personality.
• Looks for patience, emotional control, and customer service skills in candidates.

6. Common Hiring Mistakes

• Rushion admits to undervaluing HR and hiring impulsively.
• Travis stresses the importance of structured hiring, background checks, and managerial coaching.

7. Private Investigations

• Focuses on corporate and small business cases (e.g., internal theft).
• Offers thorough investigative services including interviews, documentation review, and evidence presentation.

8. Leadership & Change Management

• Travis emphasizes communication, collaboration, and transparency when implementing new ideas.
• Encourages team involvement and ownership to foster loyalty and performance.

9. Growth & Partnerships

• Rather than competing with large firms, The Guardian focuses on partnerships and subcontracting.
• Advocates for collaboration, especially among minority-owned businesses.

10. Closing Remarks

• Travis shares his mission to build generational wealth and empower his team.
• Rushion reflects on lessons learned and thanks Travis for his insights.

💡 Key Takeaways

• HR is foundational: “Your business is your people.”
• Hiring is about character: “We don’t want to see their representative. We want to see their true selves.”
• Patience is critical in security: “If they can’t wait 20 minutes for an interview, they won’t be patient on the job.”
• Leadership is collaborative: “You have to roll up your sleeves and be a participant.”
• Growth through partnership: “We can’t afford to compete, but we can afford to partner.”

🗣️ Notable Quotes

• “HR needs to have a seat at the table.”
• “Do what you say you’re going to do, and do what you said.”
• “When people feel a part of something, they’ll do more.”
• “I wanted to create generational wealth for me and my family.”
• “We’re not competing—we’re partnering.”

 

#SHMS

#BEST

#STRAW

#AMI

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