Innovation Obsessed

The holidays are here, bringing festive decorations, bustling shopping centers, and shoppers humming along to "Jingle Bell Rock." But beneath the cheer lies a growing concern for retailers: the surge in theft, fraud, and organized retail crime (ORC) that accompanies the season.

For many in retail, this time of year isn’t just about spreading joy—it’s about bracing for risk. A recent survey indicates that 57% of U.S. retail workers feel unsafe as the holiday shopping season approaches(Source).

Last year alone, U.S. retailers faced a staggering $112 billion in shrink, with ORC incidents spiking up to 40% in November and December. The stakes are higher than ever, as 88% of retailers report rising aggression among shoplifters, and 65% of thefts now involve violence or confrontation.

If you're in retail—or know someone who is—this episode is a must-listen. We’re diving into the data, stories, and strategies that can help you stay ahead this holiday season. And our guest, Basia Pietrawska is literally walking the streets of New York talking to retailers to bring insights to you, “I was in New York City last week for a two hour span and witnessed verbal arguments from several customers at seven locations [...] I think violence, it’s absolutely the number one concern right now.”

In this special edition holiday episode, Basia Pietrawska, a crime analysis expert and Senior Advisor at Lowers & Associates who also consults with CAP Index, LPRC, and ASIS International, joins Patrick Welsh, Oosto's GM for America, to discuss the rise in holiday retail crime. Hosted by Matt Plantier, the conversation highlights data-driven strategies, collaboration, and proactive prevention for retail safety and security.

Leveraging Data to Tackle Retail Crime

The holiday season sees a surge in retail crime, putting stores under pressure to do more with less while facing heightened safety risks. Addressing organized retail crime and petty theft begins with understanding these threats. Identifying criminal patterns provides actionable insights for retail workers and law enforcement to prevent crimes before they occur. Collaborative efforts and unified data strategies enable businesses to refine policies, reduce theft, and ensure the safety of employees and the community.

Basia adds to the conversation, “I think violence, it's absolutely the number one concern right now, because it affects the employees, it affects them wanting to come to work. I hear that from a lot of them. I do a lot of site visits with customers, where I actually speak to employees on site. And oftentimes, they will open up to me because I'm not with their company. And that is their concern. A lot of times, they're thinking about changing their jobs, because they just don't feel safe going to work, especially in big cities. And then ultimately, how that affects customers. I've done some surveys on that earlier this year. And just the general perception is people are switching more to online shopping because they're not comfortable going to stores.”

Addressing solutions to the challenges in retail crime she adds, “We want to use data proactively to stop these things from getting worse.”

Escalating Violence: The Ripple Effect

Opportunistic thieves exploit high retail employee turnover and worker fatigue, especially during the holidays when longer hours and fewer breaks disrupt routines and heighten store vulnerability. Visible measures like employee training, de-escalation protocols, and proactive strategies create safer environments, supporting worker retention, customer satisfaction, and community trust. Holiday retail crime isn’t just about lost goods—it’s about protecting people.

Basia states, “Even if theft goes up, one of the biggest concerns that I'm hearing from my clients is the general escalation of violence that comes with what used to be just theft or shoplifting. Now they're getting much more serious in nature, and have much more of an impact on employees and customers.”

On organized crime, Basia adds, “Financial loss is huge when it comes to ORC. But the one thing that retail needs to be very aware of is, again, the increase in violence associated with these incidents.”

Unfortunately, retailers know this all too well, “It's not always crime, but it's a disturbance to the business that affects sales, affects perception of safety, discourages customers from coming in,” she continues.

Essential Collaboration

Cross-agency partnerships with local and federal law enforcement are vital for effective crime mitigation, particularly when supported by proactive practices such as tabletop exercises. Industry associations provide valuable resources by standardizing crime definitions, improving response protocols, and fostering stronger collaboration among retailers and authorities. Building trust in law enforcement and engaging proactively can help break down information silos, ensuring a more coordinated and efficient approach to addressing retail crime.

Basia shares the need for collaboration, “I do strongly believe that when you think about the nature of ORC, involves a lot of collaboration amongst those criminals. And the same has to happen on the retail side. There needs to be better collaboration as far as information sharing so we can be more proactive.”

Proactive Prevention: Supplying the Tools

Real-time watchlist alerting gives retailers data incident prevention and insights into trends, improving communication and support to safeguard workers, customers, and property. Sharing data across stores enhances crime prevention while analyzing past incidents helps justify stronger security measures and budgets.

Beyond Retail: Lessons Learned from Other Industries

Retail is often the focus during the holidays, but high-traffic locations like healthcare facilities, airports, or transit hubs face unique challenges too. Transit systems often see a rise in fare evasion and related crimes during busy travel periods (Source). Emergency Departments and hospitals see a significant rise in patient visits during the holidays (Source). "Porch piracy" becomes more prevalent, with 30% of consumers reporting at least one stolen package, up from 25% in 2022 (Source). The National Insurance Crime Bureau reported a 13% increase in auto thefts since June 2020, with continued trends during holidays. (Source). With risksamplified during this time, retail teams can learn from others.

Basia mentions, “When I say collaboration, it has to go beyond retail. And I'm personally very passionate about this sort of crossover from retail to restaurant to financial, because these guys are dealing with a lot of similar issues. And while a bank doesn't deal with ORC necessarily, they're still dealing with other issues that are similar. And a lot of times these crimes crossover. So being aware of what your neighbors are experiencing, even though they're not traditional retail, is key. “

Basia closes with lessons learned on data collection, advice on where to source data, and how to use the data collected across locations. Plus, she offers advice on how to secure more budget for underfunded loss prevention departments. Finally, Patrick reinforces the need for proactive versus reactive approaches to addressing holiday retail crime.

Why Listen?

Discover how AI is transforming retail security this holiday season, tackling theft, fraud, and organized crime with data-driven strategies.

Listen Now: https://oosto.com/podcast/

In the first half of 2024, cargo theft in the United States surged by 49% compared to the same period in 2023, with an average loss per incident of $115,23, according to an August 2024 report by Overhaul. Freight hubs and urban centers like California and Texas remain hot spots, exposing long-standing gaps in supply chain security.

Globally, cargo theft continues to pose significant challenges. In the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region, reported cargo thefts resulted in losses averaging €988K every 24 hours during the first half of 2023, totaling approximately €179 million over six months, according to TAPAEMEA.

But the challenges don’t stop at stolen goods. Drivers, security personnel, and employees are navigating increasing risks, from hijackings and access breaches to physical assaults. These incidents don’t just disrupt supply chains—they hurt revenue, operations, and public trust.

In this episode of Innovation Obsessed, Joanna Small sits down with Patrick Welsh, GM of Americas at Oosto, and Chris Torrence, Chief Strategy Officer at Optym to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming safety in the logistics, trucking, and transportation industry. From safeguarding drivers and cargo to ensuring ethical AI practices, the conversation offers practical strategies for improvement.

The Hidden Toll of Cargo Theft

While the rise in cargo theft grabs headlines, Patrick Welsh emphasizes the human cost of these incidents. “Protecting the driver is just as critical as protecting the cargo. Drivers face threats like trailer tampering, hijackings, and physical assaults—all of which disrupt operations and put lives at risk,” he explains. Incidents result in rising insurance costs, operational downtime, and reputational damage.

Empowering the Workforce with AI

Employees on the front lines are critical to safety, from drivers navigating dangerous routes to guards securing large facilities. AI supports, not replaces, this workforce. “Good AI gives data to the human that’s making the decision,” Welsh explains.

For example, a single guard monitoring a 100,000-square-foot facility can leverage AI insights to work more effectively. Welsh adds, “Innovation isn’t just about securing goods—it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe and supported while doing their jobs.”

From Reactive to Proactive Safety

Shifting from reactive to proactive security and safety protocols reshapes how transportation approaches and succeeds protection. AI’s ability to analyze vast amounts of data in real-time turns legacy systems into predictive tools that flag risks before they escalate.

Welsh highlights how edge devices are playing a critical role in this evolution. “We’ve spent years innovating AI at the edge, enabling us to deploy powerful capabilities directly on buses, trains, and other transit systems,” he explains. “For example, a Jetson device on a bus can provide real-time protection for both passengers and drivers by detecting threats like tailing vehicles or unauthorized access.” By processing data locally, edge devices help to reduce response times and provide actionable insights on the move

“We’re moving beyond responding to problems and into a space where we can prevent them altogether,” Torrence explains. Whether it’s identifying potential cargo theft, detecting unauthorized perimeter access, or enhancing employee safety, proactive measures are becoming the new standard.

Ethics at the Core of Innovation

The benefits of AI must be balanced with responsible deployment. Torrence stresses the importance of governance and trust. “Good AI isn’t just about solving today’s problems—it’s about ensuring the technology is applied in ways that protect people, respect privacy, and align with long-term goals,” he explains.

Aligning Safety with Business Priorities

AI-driven solutions enhance safety while delivering measurable business benefits. Preventing theft, optimizing routes, and reducing disruptions directly impact profitability. “Innovation isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for survival in today’s landscape,” Torrence notes.

Why Listen?

This episode dives into actionable insights for protecting what matters most: your people, your assets, and your reputation. Learn how AI is helping industries like transportation and logistics navigate high-stakes environments with greater confidence and precision.

Listen Now: https://oosto.com/podcast/

Safety sells—and 69.3% of fans are buying in. According to the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security, nearly three out of four eventgoers factor security into their decision to attend, and many are willing to pay extra for peace of mind. For those charged with event security, this isn’t just a stat; it’s a wake-up call: get safety right, or risk losing the crowd.

In our latest Innovation Obsessed episode, Katie Steinberg talks with Matt Plantier and Patrick Welsh from Oosto about building a proactive security strategy that blends people and technology. The episode takes you step-by-step through the fan experience—from public transit to the stadium gates and into the venue—highlighting how each security touchpoint plays a crucial role in keeping fans safe and confident. Proactive security begins with hiring skilled personnel who can spot potential threats and respond effectively. Working hand in hand with advanced tools like real-time alerts and behavior detection, these teams create a safer, more reassuring experience for fans.

Proactive vs. Reactive Security


Security directors know that waiting until a crisis unfolds doesn’t work. Patrick Welsh details the events of the recent Copa América Final at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, where a poorly managed choke point forced officials to open gates to prevent trampling, allowing hundreds of unvetted people to bypass metal detectors and security checks. The chaos not only jeopardized fan safety but also resulted in multiple lawsuits from ticketed attendees who were denied entry.

Securing the Journey: Beyond the Stadium Gates


Security doesn’t begin at the stadium entrance; it starts as soon as fans begin their journey. Patrick Welsh emphasizes that every part of the fan’s route—whether it’s public transit, Uber drop-off zones, parking lots, or even the arrival of team buses—is an opportunity to get ahead of potential risks. By deploying AI-driven solutions that monitor and assess activity across these areas, security teams can proactively identify and address threats before they reach the stadium perimeter.

Perimeter Security: Addressing High-Profile Concerns


Fans aren’t the only ones worried about safety at large events—artists share those fears, too. Katie Steinberg brings up a quote from Taylor Swift, who once said, “I was completely terrified to go on tour after the Manchester Arena bombing and the Vegas concert shooting.” The challenge is not only protecting thousands of fans but also ensuring that the performers and staff feel secure, reinforcing the need to anticipate and manage threats before they reach the event’s perimeter.

Inside the Stadium: Navigating Complex Security Needs


Once fans are inside, the security landscape evolves. Managing large crowds in a confined space comes with unique challenges, from identifying potential troublemakers to maintaining overall safety without dampening the event's energy. Matt emphasizes that effective in-stadium security relies on clear protocols and well-trained personnel capable of quickly recognizing and addressing threats. By understanding crowd dynamics and deploying resources strategically, security teams can ensure a safe environment while allowing fans to enjoy the experience without unnecessary interference.

Why Listen?


This episode is a must-listen for those charged with stadium or event security. You’ll get actionable insights on transforming security from reactive to proactive and learn how AI is already reshaping safety practices at some of the world’s largest venues. From transit security to stadium perimeters and lessons learned from the casino industry, the discussion covers it all.

Listen Now: https://oosto.com/podcast/

Your facility’s perimeter is not just a boundary—it’s the first line of defense against potential threats. If you manage security for a corporate headquarters, manufacturing sites, transportation facilities, or university campus, you have felt the pressure to get ahead of those looking to do harm. We talk with your colleagues every day and they live in fear of the gap - the hole in your perimeter security that lets bad actors in. You know the cost of being wrong could be lives lost, injury, property damage, sabotaged products and more. In this episode, we talk about real strategies for closing the gap.

In part two of this special edition crossover of Innovation Obsessed, we feature the Secured Podcast, hosted by seasoned security experts Mike Matranga and Mike Monsive. In this episode, they explore the role of video analytics in enhancing perimeter security and reducing response times. Drawing from their experience safeguarding thousands of students, staff, and campuses, they highlight how video behavioral analysis streamlines emergency response efforts.

Beyond perimeter security, this episode discusses alerting on people and objects in restricted areas, avoiding scavenger hunts by pinpointing threats within multi-million-square-foot facilities, the importance of incident plans and stakeholder engagement, and incident prevention beyond typical use cases.

Perimeter Security: Visual Coverage Where You Need it Most

Often spanning miles, perimeter security can be overwhelming for video operators charged with managing a facility. Real-time alerts allow for enhanced due diligence. Matranga and Monsive explain that the human eye can't monitor all security footage continuously, but there are tools that exist that reduce operator fatigue and enable a more proactive and effective security response.

Avoiding Lock Down: Safeguarding Full Body Wellness

Effective perimeter security enables personnel to neutralize escalating threats before they disrupt a school day, workday, or public event. In this episode Matranga recounts a situation where a swift response in a school parking lot prevented a campus-wide lockdown. He details apprehending a threat in a school parking lot. With the quick response, a school-wide lockdown was avoided, preserving student, faculty, and staff mental well-being, and preventing any emotional trauma associated with undergoing a lockdown. The discussion highlights how AI tools like Vision AI contribute to overall community well-being, beyond physical security.

Inclusion in Tabletop Exercises

Matranga and Monsive emphasize that adding any AI solution to your response plan is only as effective as the safety plans supporting them. They underscore the importance of including both educators and administrators in security personnel's tabletop exercises. Integrating new AI technologies into a school system fosters collaboration between law enforcement and educators, ensuring the effective and rapid use of these tools. Lost time can lead to lost lives, but a unified, well-structured emergency response plan bridges the gap between a security threat and the response, ultimately saving lives.

Why Listen?

Every two weeks, Innovation Obsessed brings you compelling stories, expert panel discussions, and thought leadership in the realms of safety, security, and operational efficiency. This episode is packed with actionable insights for healthcare administrators, security professionals, and anyone interested in the latest innovations in healthcare.

Tune In and Get Inspired

Don’t miss out on the latest episode of Innovation Obsessed. Whether you're managing security for large facilities or passionate about leveraging technology for safety, this podcast provides actionable insights and expert advice on enhancing perimeter security.

Listen Now: https://oosto.com/podcast/

The fall of 2024 raises security concerns around events public and private. Increased foot traffic and high-profile events including an election makes it harder to maintain a secure environment, especially in busy places like schools, universities, public gathering spaces/events, and healthcare facilities. Every day, security teams face the task of identifying and responding to threats that may be hidden in plain sight.

In this special edition of Innovation Obsessed, we’re excited to feature a crossover with the Secured Podcast, hosted by seasoned security experts Mike Matranga and Mike Monsive. With years of experience safeguarding thousands of students, staff, and campuses, they offer valuable insights into managing security challenges in the education and corporate sector. From utilizing AI technology to navigating the balance between privacy and protection, Mike and Mike provide practical advice that is relevant for anyone responsible for campus or facility security.

In this first episode, they explore the “needle in the haystack” use case - the student that made a threat against the school, the disgruntled ex-employee, or the person with a restraining order. It’s easy to think your security team will study the pictures and identify the person of interest, the reality is far different.

Our experts dive into the practical applications of Vision AI technology, discussing how Oosto helped address complex security needs and why having the right policies in place is just as important as the technology itself.

Using AI to Address Complex Security Needs

Matranga and Monsive dive into how AI-driven solutions like Vision AI offer a proactive approach to security. From monitoring crowded events to identifying individuals attempting to bypass security measures, the technology provides enhanced situational awareness that traditional surveillance systems lack.

Smart Investment for Campus Security

Over panic alarms, gun detection, license plate recognition (LPR), and other technologies, Vision AI has proven to be the most valuable tool in their experience. They share stories from their time securing schools in Texas, where Vision AI became an indispensable part of their security toolkit.

One powerful story comes from a graduation ceremony, where the technology’s capabilities were put to the test on its first day of implementation. Matranga recalls a simple challenge: “Just prove to me that it works. Catch one guy.” Sure enough, within minutes, Vision AI flagged a banned individual attempting to enter the event. The system detected him from 40 feet outside the perimeter, allowing security personnel to intervene and escort him out without incident.

Balancing Technology with Policy

The conversation goes beyond just technology. Matranga and Monsive emphasize the need for clear policies that balance the use of AI with privacy considerations. While AI can be a powerful tool for preventing incidents, having a strong policy framework ensures that it’s used responsibly. They discuss the importance of transparency and how organizations can engage with staff, students, and visitors to foster a secure environment that also respects individual privacy.

Building a Comprehensive Security Strategy

In addition to Vision AI, the episode covers how layering multiple security technologies—like access control systems, perimeter monitoring, and real-time alerts—can create a more resilient security plan. Matranga and Monsive share insights on how AI can be integrated with existing systems to enhance their capabilities, offering a smarter, more comprehensive approach to keeping facilities safe.

Round-the-Clock Protection

Matranga and Monsive remind us that security isn’t a seasonal concern—it’s a 24/7 responsibility. Whether it’s someone wearing a mask, glasses, or a hat to avoid detection, the need for vigilant monitoring never goes away.

Oosto’s Vision AI offers round-the-clock protection, tirelessly scanning for potential threats and providing real-time alerts, regardless of time or place. Even when security teams are stretched thin, AI keeps watch—ensuring your facility remains safe, no matter how determined individuals may be to evade detection. As Matranga and Monsive put it, AI is the extra set of eyes that never blinks, safeguarding your perimeter and facilities year-round.

Why Listen?

For anyone responsible for security at a campus, healthcare facility, or corporate office, this episode offers valuable insights on how AI can be a critical part of a well-rounded security strategy. The conversation provides practical takeaways on the use of AI, the importance of clear policies, and how to address both the technical and human sides of security.

With so much packed into this episode, we’re splitting it into two parts. Be sure to catch part two of this special edition on November 7th, where we continue the conversation on AI, security, and the future of safeguarding our campuses.

Listen Now: oosto.com/podcast

In the latest episode of Innovation Obsessed, Matt Plantier of Oosto sits down with Wes Drake, former special operations expert and current COO of OmniResponse, to discuss the vital role of technology in modern security practices. With a background in the Department of Defense and over two decades of military experience, Drake brings a wealth of knowledge on security measures in high-stakes environments, including schools, universities, healthcare facilities, and corporate settings. Their discussion centers on how technology is reshaping security across industries, highlighting the importance of proactive planning and the integration of physical and technological measures to keep environments safe.

Wes highlights that a strong foundation in physical security is essential, but it’s just the beginning. He stresses the need for regular rehearsals, drills, and after-action reviews to identify and close gaps in preparedness—an often-overlooked step in many institutions' security plans. By regularly testing systems, schools and other organizations can better prepare for real-life scenarios, improving their overall safety readiness.

The conversation also addresses a key concern for many schools: budget constraints. Wes explains that while advanced technologies such as facial recognition, weapon detection, and sensor integration might seem costly, they can be implemented gradually. Schools can focus on securing high-risk areas first, then expand their systems as needed. This scalable approach enables even budget-conscious schools to prioritize safety effectively with proven ROI.

Wes further explores how schools can mitigate risks during protests or unrest by using both physical and technological strategies. From rerouting foot traffic to deploying automated systems that monitor crowd behavior and trigger alerts, these tools can prevent incidents from escalating, ensuring a safer environment for students and staff.

In wrapping up, Wes shares a crucial lesson from his own experience, emphasizing the need to incorporate security planning from the start of school design. Too often, new buildings feature glass walls and open spaces that pose security risks. By involving security teams early in the design phase, organizations can build spaces that prioritize prevention, not just reaction.

Every two weeks, Innovation Obsessed brings you compelling stories, expert panel discussions, and thought leadership in the realms of safety, security, and operational efficiency. This episode is packed with actionable insights for healthcare administrators, security professionals, and anyone interested in the latest innovations in healthcare.

Don’t miss out on the latest episode of Innovation Obsessed. Whether you're directly involved in healthcare security or simply passionate about innovative solutions, this podcast offers valuable perspectives and practical advice.

Listen Now: oosto.com/podcast

In settings ranging from university campuses to senior living facilities, the need for robust, adaptable security solutions to potentially prevent incidents has never been more critical. In episode 5 of our Innovation Obsessed podcast, experts explored how integrating security measures across different sectors protects vulnerable populations and creates safer environments for all.

Most security conversations focus on responding to attacks or incidents after they occur. This week, our Innovation Obsessed panel shifts the focus to prevention—moving left on the timeline, before the bang. What can you know in advance? How early can you know it? And most importantly, how can you stay ahead of the threat, keeping your team left of the bang?

You might be surprised to learn that there is so much that can and should be done to prevent incidents—they don’t have to be inevitable. From monitoring perimeters and entrances to securing high-risk areas, predictive analytics are reshaping how we protect environments like hospitals, universities, and corporate campuses. By identifying risks in real time—whether it’s spotting unusual behavior in a parking lot or detecting threats in crowded spaces—organizations are now acting smarter and faster—keeping environments safer by staying ahead of potential crises.

In Episode 4 of Innovation Obsessed, we build on the insights from Episode 3, diving deeper into how AI helps security teams stay ‘left of the bang.’ Our expert panel, which comprises Patrick Welsh, General Manager of Americas at Oosto, Joseph Souza, Vice President of Sales at Serverli, Avi Golan, CEO at Oosto, and Wesley Drake, COO at Omni-Response, discusses how AI can turn existing cameras into proactive security systems, enhancing situational awareness and response times in high-stakes environments.

Left of the Bang is a term created by authors Patrick Van Horne and Jason A. Riley, former active-duty marine officers and instructors.

In high-stakes environments where the cost of failure can be catastrophic, proactive strategies are paramount. Whether it’s universities, hospitals, or corporate institutions, organizations face escalating threats that require advanced technology, rigorous training, and effective tactics. Recent security trends underscore the necessity of comprehensive approaches to safeguard these environments. High-stakes environments increasingly adopt integrated solutions that leverage AI and predictive analytics to mitigate risks before they escalate.

In this episode of Innovation Obsessed, host Patrick Welsh delves into proactive strategies for safeguarding high-stakes environments. Joined by Joseph Souza, the Vice President of Sales at Serverli, Avi Golan, the CEO at Oosto, and Wesley Drake, the COO at Omni-Response, the discussion centers on the critical importance of technology, training, and tactics in preventing and responding to threats such as active shooters. The guests share their extensive experience in the security industry, offering insights into the challenges and solutions in maintaining safety across various sectors. The episode highlights the evolving role of AI in predicting and mitigating risks in high-stakes environments.

Ensuring the safety of both patients and staff in healthcare settings is a growing concern, particularly as incidents of workplace violence become more frequent. Factors such as mental health crises, substance abuse, and high-stress environments contribute to the complexity of maintaining secure healthcare facilities. Addressing these challenges of preventing workplace violence requires innovative solutions that can proactively identify and mitigate potential threats without compromising patient care or staff well-being.

In this episode of “Innovation Obsessed,” presented by Oosto, host David Kemp delves into how advancements in AI technology are revolutionizing security measures within the healthcare sector. The discussion highlights AI-driven solutions that enable real-time monitoring and rapid response to potential security breaches, fostering safer environments for patients and healthcare professionals.

Featuring insights from Avi Golan, CEO of Oosto, Ryan Loughin, President of NextGen Security, and Patrick Welsh, GM of Americas at Oosto, the panel explores the multifaceted challenges healthcare providers face today in preventing workplace violence. They discuss the implementation of cutting-edge security technologies and their transformative impact on maintaining safe and secure healthcare environments, emphasizing the balance between technological innovation and compassionate care.