In this episode, Mark Ledlow and Chuck Andrews discuss various topics including the economic growth in Texas, cultural differences across states, and the significance of diversifying business portfolios. The conversation touches on Chuck's experiences in law enforcement and the security industry, the evolving work ethic in younger generations, and the importance of mental toughness. They also discuss the challenges of organizing large events like Texas Night during hurricane season, the increase in school shootings versus domestic terrorism, and strategies for staying informed and proactive in an ever-changing business landscape. Tune in to gain insights from industry leaders and to understand what it takes to remain fearless amid adversity.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Economic Growth in Texas: Discussion on the migration of financial and tech companies to Texas, contributing to its growing economy.
• Cultural Differences: Exploration of cultural contrasts between Texas and other states like California and New York.
• Relocating and Adapting: Emphasis on the importance of embracing new cultures and adapting to different environments
• Work Ethic: Reflection on the changing work ethic among younger generations compared to older ones.
• Diverse Experiences: Value of having diverse experiences, from law enforcement to business, in shaping a well-rounded career.
• School Safety and Behavior: Importance of focusing on the behavioral aspects of students to prevent school shootings, rather than just increasing security hardware.
• AI and Information Verification: Necessity of verifying sources in the age of AI to avoid being misled.

QUOTES

• "Texas does remain the friendliest state in the United States."
• "Business is simple. Humans are simple. You just gotta take your time getting to know people."
• "Focus on the kids in terms of that. Invest in counseling and literally having the kids involve themselves."
• "With AI, you're gonna be fooled in a very big way. Big decisions are gonna be made and you'll have no idea what's going on."
• "Treat life in a more meaningful way; build trust and all that good stuff comes. Just gotta be patient. Play the long game."

Get to know more about Charles "CHUCK" Andrews through the link below. https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesandrewscpp/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to  https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow and Dr. Rob McKenna, from the Seattle Metro area and the creator of the WiLD Trust Platform, talks about the vital role of trust and leader development. They discuss the often overlooked chemistry of trust, how to foster it within organizations, and the importance of making a deep investment in people while providing clear operational expectations. Dr. McKenna shares insights from his longitudinal studies on leadership and addresses common generational misconceptions regarding work ethic. This episode emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to organizational management by combining strong operational systems with genuine people investment.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Trust is the most crucial currency in both personal and professional relationships.
• Trust has a detailed chemistry, comprising integrity, ability, reliability, strength, and truthfulness.
• Generational differences may often be more attributed to life stages rather than inherent generational traits.
• Developing leadership capacity involves creating a nuanced developmental story for each individual.
• Clear operational and job expectations, combined with personal investment, are essential for building trust and effective leadership.

QUOTES

• "Trust is the most important currency in the world. Without it, nothing happens."
• "Nobody wants to be gotten to do anything. Let's create a better invitation for them to be seen."
• "Trust is more like a dimmer switch. It's questioned more often than it's broken."
• "To build trust, we must clearly define job roles and performance expectations."
• "Leadership equals trust. It requires integrity, ability, reliability, strength, and truthfulness."

Get to know more about Dr. Rob McKenna through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drrobmckenna/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to
 https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow and Chuck Andrews, a renowned figure in the security industry known for his extensive global network and profound insights. Chuck shares his journey of building qualitative relationships, his strategies for managing a substantial LinkedIn following, and his future endeavors including a book tour across Europe. The discussion also delves into the challenges and opportunities in the security business, emphasizing the importance of trust and consistent relationship maintenance. Moreover, Chuck touches on issues like the impact of AI on business, geopolitical concerns, and the future of private equity in the industry. The episode is a rich blend of professional advice, personal anecdotes, and strategic insights pivotal for anyone looking to thrive in the security and business landscape.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adversity Management: Insights into how business leaders handle challenges and adversity.
• Business Optimism: There's a noticeable sense of optimism in the business community, particularly in Texas.
• Quality vs. Quantity in Networking: The importance of building quality relationships rather than focusing on the number of connections.
• Trust and Relationships: Trust is the cornerstone of effective business relationships and must be maintained through consistency and integrity.
• Importance of Adaptability: The need to adapt business strategies in response to changing environments and tech advancements.
• Upcoming Events: Details on Chuck’s book tour and the impactful events he is organizing, including a cruise focused on networking.

QUOTES

• "You ain't seen nothing yet. The next four years is gonna be a Yee-haw version to the 10th power, you watch!"
• "Maintenance of relationships...that's where the work begins."
• "It's better not to own boats, planes, and trains, but it's better to have friends who have boats, planes, and trains."
• "Get shit done. Everybody likes to get shit done."
• "Trust is earned in this business. People are watching you, they're vetting you, even when they're not talking to you."
• "AI is going to be the biggest investment space."
• "You will not be able to discern the difference between fact and fiction, right and wrong...that's how dangerous artificial intelligence can be."

Get to know more about Charles "CHUCK" Andrews through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesandrewscpp/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow and Fred Burton, Executive Director of Protection and Intelligence at Ontic and a best-selling author, discuss the surrounding potential threats posed by an open border policy and the presence of terrorist cells. The discussion delves into the analytical evidence of terrorism threats linked to transnational entries, highlighting that no domestic terror acts have been documented as originating from the southern border. The conversation touches on broader security issues, including high-profile plots thwarted in the past, school shootings, and the impact of geopolitical events on domestic safety. They emphasize the importance of analytical rigor and logical decision-making in the security and protective services industry, comparing different attitudes toward personal protection across regions and discussing the implications of various security measures for high-profile individuals.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The importance of proactive surveillance and intelligence gathering in security.
• Lessons learned from historical security breaches and attack plots.
• The significance of cultural fit and adaptability in security teams.
• Challenges faced by security personnel in adjusting to different operational environments.
• The necessity to constantly update and share intelligence within the security community.
• The evolving methods of threat actors and their preparedness.
• Fred Burton's involvement in upcoming TV and film projects based on his books.

QUOTES

• "The scope of detail that some of these threat actors are engaged with is just frightening."
• "Intelligence is powerful when done correctly."
• "You can't run a program without intelligence today."
• "If you've got a good security team, trained in observation skills, you should be able to spot threat actors ahead of time."
• "Getting people in and out without being hassled is the kind of value add that we routinely do in this business."
• "It's amazing what you can do if you just try to blend in and ask questions."
• "Some degree of protection at public venues is essential, especially for controversial issues."
• "Surveillance is critical before you get the bodies out there. Get that team out there moving around snooping."

Get to know more about Fred Burton through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefredburton/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow and Ben Hosking delve into the challenges and shifts within the security and executive protection industry. They also discuss the growing demands for high-level security services, the lack of trained talent, and the importance of ongoing investment in personal training. The episode features insights on the critical role of secure transportation, the necessity of diverse skill sets, and the evolving expectations of clients in an increasingly uncertain global environment. The conversation also touches on geopolitical influences, opportunities, and unique challenges in various regions, highlighting the dynamic nature of the field

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adversity in Business: There's a lack of quality talent in the security industry leading to increased demand and potential turnover.
• Investment in Training: Emphasis on the importance of ongoing training and personal investment for new and existing security professionals.
• Critical Security Elements: Highlight on secure transportation and the need for well-rounded skills, including medical training and emotional intelligence.
• Global Insights: Discussion on the differences and challenges in executive protection between the U.S. and other countries, especially regarding gun laws and security demands.

QUOTES

• "The young generation, they'll believe in investing in themselves."
• "Emotional intelligence is super important...the kids are worth more to them than they are."
• "America is really a dangerous nation."
• "The unknown is what drives us."
• "We're the real policemen. And then I'm sure just like straight through power through strength, you know, and who knows what's going to happen."
• "If you just get around, just show up, get around."

Get to know more about Ben Hosking through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-hosking/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow and Fred Burton, Executive Director of Protection and Intelligence at Ontic and a best-selling author, discuss the surrounding potential threats posed by an open border policy and the presence of terrorist cells. The discussion delves into the analytical evidence of terrorism threats linked to transnational entries, highlighting that no domestic terror acts have been documented as originating from the southern border. The conversation touches on broader security issues, including high-profile plots thwarted in the past, school shootings, and the impact of geopolitical events on domestic safety. They emphasize the importance of analytical rigor and logical decision-making in the security and protective services industry, comparing different attitudes toward personal protection across regions and discussing the implications of various security measures for high-profile individuals.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Security Concerns on Open Borders: Despite the high number of migrants, there has not been a domestic act of terror directly linked to transnational terrorists from the southern border.
• Domestic vs. Geopolitical Threats: Domestic threats such as school shootings are more frequent and concerning compared to geopolitical and international threats.
• Historical Predictive Failures: The U.S. has historically struggled to predict major geopolitical events, regardless of advancements in intelligence.
• Adaptation and Responsiveness: The executive protection industry often operates reactively, highlighting the need for better proactive measures and adequate resourcing.
• Regional Differences in Security Perception: Security needs and perceptions differ greatly across the U.S., with coastal regions being more open to private security compared to more self-reliant attitudes in middle America.

QUOTES

• "To the best of my knowledge, there never has been a domestic act of terror directly linked to a transnational terrorist coming from the southern border."
• "Trust me, you'll be the first one to know if I uncover something that you really need to be concerned about for you or your family."
• "Our nation seems to always be surprised... I want to believe that we're better today at anticipating surprise, but history has shown we're not."
• "Most CEOs today are almost more receptive to that kind of low-key protection."

Get to know more about Fred Burton through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefredburton/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow engages in a compelling conversation about handling adversity with a guest, Ben Hosking, who shares thrilling stories from Australia's Northern Territory, including a deadly crocodile encounter. The discussion moves to the real-life inspiration behind Crocodile Dundee and the impact of Hollywood's glamorization. The focus shifts to discussing the significant fires in California, drawing parallels with Australian bushfires and the dedication of firefighters. They also touch upon the rise in privatized security services, the challenges in recruitment due to a lack of work ethic among newer generations, and the importance of specialized training in executive protection. The conversation highlights the shift toward digital storytelling and the need for perseverance in the security industry.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adversity Handling: Emphasis on resilience and managing adversity, relevant to the podcast's theme.
• Crocodile Incident: First job involving crocodile response in Australia, highlighting the dangers and Ben Hosking's unique career experiences.
• Crocodile Dundee Story: The real story behind the character involves tragic events.
• Wildfires: Discussion on the impact of wildfires in the US and Australia, including arson and personal experiences.
• Security Operations: Insight into the executive protection and security industry, with specific focus on networking, training, and industry demands.
• Business Growth: Ludlow and Hosking discuss expanding business operations and the importance of brand-building and networking.

QUOTES

• "The Mary River is a really lovely place... but part of the wildlife is also the crocodile population."
• "The power of digital storytelling is what it's become."
• "It's a zero-point-one percent margin of failure you're competing with."
• "Spend the time networking, get online, build a LinkedIn profile."

Get to know more about Ben Hosking through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-hosking/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow is joined by Fred Burton, Executive Director of Protection and Intelligence at Ontic and a best-selling author. They discuss the evolving threat landscape under the new U.S. administration, the impact of social media on security, and the importance of protective intelligence. Learn about the dynamic changes in the security industry and discover how businesses can prepare for the next four years. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with one of the industry's leading experts.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Guest Introduction: Fred Burton, Executive Director of Protection of Intelligence at Ontic, a bestselling author with extensive experience in the intelligence space.
• Fred’s Admiration for Mark: High respect for Fred Burton who introduces key figures such as Jack.
• Importance of Adaptability in Security: Security programs need to be tailored to the clients' needs and cultures; no one-size-fits-all approach.
• Evolving Threat Landscape: Historical context of the threat landscape and its evolution, noting present challenges like social media and insider threats.
• Focus on Protective Intelligence: Emphasis on the importance of protective intelligence in assessing and mitigating threats; the balance of general awareness and specific threat signals.
• Community Building: The importance of a supportive community and the role Ontic plays in fostering thought leadership in the security industry.

QUOTES

• "There's never really one model that fits all when it comes to security programs."
• "The threat landscape today is so dynamic and so fluid."
• "The 24/7 social media platforms provide an endless and constant stream of adverse intelligence signals."
• "It's our job in this space to put together a security package to allow you to do whatever it is that you would like to do within reason."
• "The challenge is there's so much noise that protective intelligence analysts almost get paralyzed because they don't know what signals to capture."
• "You need to have general awareness collection but then also have to capture those adverse intelligence signals that directly impact your unique protective mission."

Get to know more about Fred Burton through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefredburton/
2

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

In this episode of the Fearless Mindset Podcast, we engage with renowned figures in security, business, and entertainment leadership. Discussions include the evolving landscape of security leadership, the importance of mentorship, and being approachable for those new in the industry. Key points include transitioning from a cost center mindset to business acumen in security, assessing value and pricing in high-value problem-solving, and the increasing demand for women in executive protection roles. The conversation extends to challenges, ethical considerations, technology's impact, and the critical role of AI and machine learning in being proactive rather than reactive in security. The episode highlights valuable insights on mentorship, career progression, and the importance of building relationships within the industry.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adaptability in Security Leadership: Emphasizes the need for new security leaders to be adaptable, humble, and collaborative to achieve success.
• Importance of Mentorship: Mentorship seen as invaluable for individuals navigating the security industry.
• Business Acumen in Security: Critical for security professionals to understand and speak the language of business for better integration within organizations.
• Respect for Client Privacy: Advises caution with social media to protect client confidentiality.
• Value of Diverse Skills: Encourages professionals to take on tasks that allow skill development rather than passing them off.
• Predictive Risk Management: Future advancements in technology, particularly AI and machine learning, will enable security to be more proactive than reactive.

QUOTES

• "One of the biggest lies...is that we're a cost center. We really provide no value here. We're just security."
• "You have to be cautious with social media... Watch what you post because your clients look at it."
• "If I'm weak somewhere, I know Tim is strong somewhere... and be humble."
• "AI without machine learning is just Alexa."

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow is joined by Ben Hosking to discuss the challenges of the executive protection industry. They share insights from their experiences, covering topics such as global travel between the U.S. and Australia, business dynamics in the security sector, and strategies for building trust with clients. Mark and Ben also touch on interesting anecdotes from their personal lives and emphasize the importance of dedication and perseverance in the field.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Importance of Resilience: The podcast underscores handling adversity effectively, showcased by the host's and guest's professional journeys.
• Dedication and Sacrifice: The guest, Ben Hosking, highlights the commitment required in the security field, including extensive travel and personal sacrifices.
• Global Business Network: The conversation emphasizes the value of international networking and building trusted relationships across countries.
• Industry Challenges: The discussion touches on the high stakes in the executive protection industry, where minor errors can have significant repercussions.
• Trust and Integrity: Both the host and guest stress the importance of trust in their line of work, especially in handling high-profile clients.

QUOTES

• "We sell trust, Mark. We might do executive protection, but at the end of the day, we sell trust." – Ben Hosking
• "There's no mercy at all in this business. You spell wrong, you wear the wrong cologne, or have onion on your breath, and you're done."
• "We need to make sure the dudes you're dealing with aren't chatting to the principal and asking them awkward questions."
• "If you have that first meeting, great. You might have a second meeting, great. And then dinner. That may take six months."

Get to know more about Ben Hosking through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-hosking/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen to major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.