In this episode, Mark Ledlow is joined by Benjamin Whitfield, a seasoned security professional with a military and agency background and a former CIA. They discuss Ben's transition from being an executive in Silicon Valley to an independent consultant, and delve into the complexities of the security industry. Key topics include the role of Chief Security Officers, the importance of sales in security, and the need for risk-based assessment. They also explore emerging trends in security, the impact of the new administration, and the importance of continuing education for security professionals.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Building relationships is crucial for ensuring security programs are funded and supported.
   
• The role of a Chief Security Officer (CSO) involves significant political and sales skills.
   
• Proper risk assessments tailored to the company culture are essential for effective security programs.
   
• The executive protection industry's future might see growth due to increasing threats and new economic sectors like cryptocurrency.
   
• Ongoing education and adaptation to emerging trends and technologies are vital for security professionals.

QUOTES

• "It's all sales... Your job really is to advocate for how do you protect people, facilities, operations as much as possible given what the political climate is in your company."
   
• "If you build a program that meets the absolute corporate need, your job isn't going away."
   
• "In Silicon Valley, I'll stereotype. I'm just the kid wearing the hoodie. You're the kid wearing the hoodie who's now worth, you know, a billion dollars."
   
• "There are multiple ways where a company can provide, can have security for its senior most executives."
   
• "The CSO chair is, you're playing politics, you're fighting for budget with everybody else."

Get to know more about Benjamin Whitfield through the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminwhitfield/

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 Michael LaVista, Founder and CEO of Caxy Interactive, a software company based in the Midwest. They delve into the evolving landscape of business, technology, and human interaction. The discussion highlights the importance of digital transformation for companies, the balance between face-to-face interactions and digital communication, and the rising significance of platforms like LinkedIn for business networking. The conversation also explores the potential of AI, the growth of private jet usage, and takes a deep dive into sales strategies and market insights. Key anecdotes include the value of in-person meetings versus digital meetings and the innovative approaches used by prominent companies.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adaptation to Digital: Companies have significant opportunities to become digital and scale operations efficiently without heavy reliance on human resources.
   
• Importance of In-Person Interaction: Face-to-face meetings and conferences are regaining importance post-COVID for building trust and effective communication.
   
• Human-Centered Approach: Understanding and addressing innate human emotions can improve customer experiences.
   
• Innovative Sales Strategies: Focusing on client engagement and real conversations can enhance sales outcomes.
   
• Effective Use of Technology: Services like JSX with Starlink show the value of reliable in-flight connectivity for maintaining business operations.
   
• Economic Resilience: Despite challenges, the American economy is expected to adapt and continue thriving with smart trade and business practices.
   
• AI Integration: Embrace AI cautiously but proactively, experimenting with its applications to stay ahead.

QUOTES

• “The opportunity for a lot of companies is to sort of finally become digital.
   
• “People are so much more effective in person.”
  
  “Face-to-face time, shaking the hand, having a dinner, creates business intimacy.”
   
• “The idea that you can distribute content for basically free on platforms like YouTube is a game changer.”
   
• “Don’t either be too hyped up or down on AI. It's going to make a difference and you might as well just jump in and start trying stuff.”

Get to know more about Michael LaVista through the links below. 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellavista/

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 Kevin Palacios from HELPS Security, a company that provides highly effective protection services throughout Latin America. The conversation explores a variety of topics, including the evolving impact of social media on the executive protection industry, navigating challenges in volatile regions, and the importance of maintaining strategic and tactical skills. Kevin shares insights on the importance of building long-standing relationships through industry networking, the rising influence of China in Latin America, and the essential role of social media for the younger generation. They also delve into the socioeconomic and political landscapes of Latin American countries and their implications for security professionals. Kevin emphasizes the necessity for the industry to adapt to new technologies like AI and to adopt broader strategic conversations to enhance the value of protection services.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Social Media's Influence: Social media has significantly changed the landscape of executive protection and how professionals in the industry interact and present themselves.
   
• Industry Adaptation: Adapting to social media while maintaining professionalism and operational security is crucial.
   
• Networking and Relationships: Building long-term, trust-based relationships in the security industry is essential for sustained business success.
   
• Global Challenges: The security landscape varies greatly across different regions, with unique challenges in places like Latin America.
   
• Continuous Learning: Volunteering, ongoing education, and participation in professional organizations like ASIS can significantly enhance one's career and network.
   
• Emphasizing Strategic Thinking: The need for a shift in the executive protection industry towards more strategic and data-driven approaches.

QUOTES

• "Social media can reinforce the stereotype of executive protection as overly tactical."
   
• "You couldn't really do anything to get in trouble with really. And then all of a sudden Facebook launched and nobody really put anything out there."
   
• "The more I give, the more time I spend, the more I engage with members, assisting them... I get to know people on a different level."
   
• "Understanding that EP has a more strategic side is something important."
   
• "If you don’t build relationships, the calls will not come in."

Get to know more about Kevin Palacios through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachseguridad/

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 Michael LaVista, Founder and CEO of Caxy Interactive, a software company based in the Midwest. They discuss various topics including handling adversity, the rise of AI, and its implications for businesses. Mike shares insights on the software industry's evolution, the significance of automation, and the challenges posed by AI security. He also provides his perspective on the future of the tech industry, the impact of quantum computing, and the volatile nature of cryptocurrencies. The conversation gives listeners a comprehensive view of the current and future trends in technology and business.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adapting to AI: The discussion emphasizes the rapid integration of AI in businesses, moving from experimental phases to becoming part of operational systems.
   
• Efficiency and Automation: Mike discusses his passion for automation, stressing the importance of optimizing processes to eliminate manual, time-consuming tasks.
   
• AI and Security: There's an outlined concern about AI's role in cybersecurity, particularly the risks of AI being exploited for malicious purposes.
   
• Economic Volatility: Tariffs and geopolitical changes are influencing operational costs and strategies for businesses, especially those involved in manufacturing and trading.
   
• Technological Talent: There's a notable shortage of skilled developers, emphasizing the necessity for continuous learning and adapting hiring practices to include self-taught individuals.
   
• Future Trends: Quantum computing poses significant future risks to current encryption methods, indicating a paradigm shift in cybersecurity.

QUOTES

• "I hate the idea of people doing manual slow, stupid things that drives me crazy."
   
• "The idea of like kind of protecting yourself and, you know, putting it in a walled garden where it's protected against hacking."
   
• "We're really looking for all of our growth around Chicago to develop like a good, you know, culture, corporate family there."
   
• "For me, cryptocurrency is really just gambling and that's okay. I'm not putting a judgment on it."
   
• "You have to be able to compete. And I feel like when you have all that waste lying around, that's where your margin dollars just slip away."
   
• "Developers aren't going away completely. It's just like a different, your job will be different."

Get to know more about Michael LaVista through the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellavista/

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 interviewed by Tommy Pappas of Fearless Protection Insights. They delve into the complexities of personal and physical security in today's unpredictable environment. Mark shares his background in military and law enforcement, his journey into the executive protection industry, and how he founded Ledlow Security Group. They discuss the importance of proactive security measures, conducting risk and threat assessments, and the role of advanced teams in ensuring the safety of high-net-worth individuals. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media, AI-driven threats, and the significance of educating clients to foster trust and security. Additionally, Mark highlights his commitment to supporting veterans and looks forward to expanding his security and media ventures.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Context and Perspective: Understanding the significance of being vigilant in different environments, both domestic and international.
   
• Proactive Measures: Importance of risk assessments, threat assessments, and protective intelligence to mitigate potential dangers proactively.
   
• Digital Age Challenges: Awareness of the increased threats due to social media, AI, and the evolving nature of targeted attacks.
   
• Value of Expertise: Highlighting the importance of involving experts in security to protect personal, family, and corporate interests.
   
• Holistic Security Approach: Emphasis on combining physical security measures with digital intelligence to provide comprehensive protection.
   
• Veteran Support: Mark's commitment to empowering veterans through employment opportunities and community support.

QUOTES

• "You don't have to be a Joe Rogan. You don't have to be a top 1% podcaster to tell your story. You just gotta get over your own fear of getting on the podcast."
   
• "My job, what I've learned over the years, is to do an investigation, figure out the context of the threat, and often, education is the key."
   
• "People want actionable intelligence. That’s the key."
   
• "Mark’s team does X, Y, and Z... showing the value on a risk threat assessment to the decision-makers."
   
• "Creating memories that will last a lifetime and embodying a fearless mindset not just in business, but in life."

Get to know more about Tommy Pappas through the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommypappas/
https://www.tpgcollective.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@TommyPappasFO

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 Kevin Palacios, a leader in the security industry. They discuss various aspects of security in Mexico and Latin America, focusing on the impact of political changes, drug cartels, and executive protection needs. Kevin shares his unique background, highlighting his work as a university professor before transitioning to executive protection. They also discuss the need for better data-driven decision-making and the integration of AI in security operations. The conversation touches on the differences in executive protection practices between the US and other countries, and the challenges of running a successful security business.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Kevin Palacios is recognized as a rising star in the security industry, particularly in Mexico and Latin America.
   
• Discussions center around the complex security challenges in Latin America, influenced by political and criminal activities.
   
• Kevin Palacios highlights the need for EP (Executive Protection) to adopt more data-driven decision-making.
   
• The differences between U.S. and Latin American EP practices are explored, including regulatory and cultural variations.
   
• Technological advancements, such as AI and data integration, are deemed crucial for the future of EP.

QUOTES

• "Money corrupts, power corrupts."
   
• "EP needs more data-driven decision making."
   
• "Business owners are supposed to work on the business, not in the business."
   
• "AI is the future of EP for sure."

Get to know more about Kevin Palacios through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachseguridad/

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, as the guest, sits down with Ben Hosking from Panoptic Solutions at the IPSB Close Protection Conference in Nashville. They share their backgrounds, explore career transitions, and discuss the value of industry events in the executive protection field. The conversation touches on the challenges of maintaining a fearless mindset, the critical role of trust in client relationships, and the evolving demands of the security industry. Personal anecdotes bring to life their journeys from military and firefighting roles to leadership positions in corporate and high-profile security sectors.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Handling Adversity: The podcast emphasizes adapting and persevering through challenges, pointing out that career paths often evolve through unexpected events.
   
• Networking and Building Trust: Success in executive protection often hinges on trust and established relationships. Attending conferences and creating long-term partnerships are vital.
   
• Executive Protection Landscape: The industry has shifted significantly over the years due to technology and geopolitical changes, increasing the importance of protective intelligence and comprehensive security solutions.
   
• Service and Purpose: Many professionals in the industry are driven by a sense of purpose and service, often stemming from military or law enforcement backgrounds.
   
• Overcoming Fear: Emphasizes the importance of a fearless mindset, both personally and professionally, to achieve significant growth and success.

QUOTES

• "We're selling trust, not executive protection."
   
• "Every overnight success takes about 10 years."
   
• "Fear is the mind killer and it stops more dreams than it does physical objections."
   
• "Service is absolutely everything; purpose comes through service."
   
• "You don't know what your calling is until your thirties or forties."

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.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow, Bruno Dias, and Matt Talbot discuss the importance of comprehensive threat and risk assessments in corporate and educational environments. They explore the integration of physical security with behavioral threat assessments, emphasizing the crucial role every employee plays in maintaining safety. Additionally, they touch on the psychological aspects of individuals who commit acts of violence, drawing on their own extensive field experiences. Matt shares a powerful story from his time working in a high-risk prison environment, highlighting the importance of building trust and respect with inmates. The episode wraps up with information about their ongoing projects and how listeners can reach out to them for their expert services.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adversity Handling: The importance of dealing with adversity and leveraging experiences to stay fearless is emphasized.
   
• Comprehensive Security Approach: Incorporating physical security into behavioral threat assessment provides a unique value.
   
• Inclusiveness in Safety: Every employee, regardless of their role, should be viewed as part of the safety and security team.
   
• Warning Signs: Identifying and acting on warning behaviors and signs is crucial in preventing violent incidents.
   
• Human Side of Inmates: Building respectful relationships with inmates can foster mutual respect and potentially prevent violent outcomes.
   
• Impactful Storytelling: Personal stories, such as working with high-risk individuals, can convey powerful lessons in security management.
   
• Legacy and Education: The importance of leaving a positive legacy and educating the next generation of security professionals.

QUOTES

• "We really need to think about everybody who is positioned to be able to possibly help."
   
• "Humans communicate kind of like dogs shed hair, right? It's just a necessity."
   
• "Everybody plays a role... there's something good in everybody and my job was to figure that out."
   
• "Sometimes it's about just getting to the human side of somebody."
   
• "Treating people with validation and making them feel significant can prevent them from committing violent acts."
   
• "Our goal is to leave something original, something impacting on this larger community."

Get to know more about Dr. Bruno Dias through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brunodiaspci/

Get to know more about Dr. Matt Talbot through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-talbot-phd-lcsw-ccfc-cfmhe-ctm%C2%AE-5a655044

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 Robert Guillot, owner and founder of CenterPoint Security Solutions, discuss the evolving landscape of the oil and gas industry in Texas and its impact on security measures with his guest. They delve into Chevron's relocation to Houston, the consolidation of smaller oil companies, and the significant growth in Texas real estate. The conversation also explores the complications of mineral rights, agricultural tax exemptions, and the rising concerns of executive security in a shifting socio-political environment. They emphasize the critical role of threat intelligence and executive protection in current and future business strategies amidst increasing public scrutiny and social media-fueled ideologies. Additionally, Rob discusses his consulting firm, CenterPoint Security Solutions, and its mission to optimize security departments for businesses of all sizes.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Houston's Role in Oil & Gas: Houston is a critical hub for the oil and gas industry, attracting international business interactions.
   
• Corporate Acquisitions: There's a trend of larger oil companies acquiring smaller independent firms to capitalize on efficiencies.
   
• Chevron's Move: Chevron's shift from California to Houston signifies a strategic move due to regulatory preferences.
   
• Growth in Texas: Texas continues to experience substantial growth, particularly in real estate and population.
   
• Executive Protection: Executive protection and travel security are critically important but often underappreciated components of corporate risk management.
   
• Social Media Threats: The younger generation's sentiments towards corporate leaders reveal a significant shift in public attitude and increased threats communicated via social media.

QUOTES

• "Understanding the culture, I think, is so important... You could have the greatest ideas ever, but your presentation will just never resonate."
   
• "[CEO] think[s] it is an infringement on their privacy to present their life... but the reality is, anybody who wanted to affect oil and gas in Texas knew exactly who our CEOs were."
   
• "Regardless of how you feel about insurance companies denying claims... we live in a society where that should not be acceptable, period."
   
• "Protective intelligence is so critical in your programs... minimizing your social, internet, and data footprint is big."
   
• "Creating a better security strategy is crucial for companies to protect their interests without forming a traditional security department."

Get to know more about Robert Guillot through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-guillot/

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 dives into a refreshing discussion with security experts Bruno Dias and Matt Talbot. They share their extensive backgrounds in law enforcement and recount a harrowing incident involving a school shooting. Bruno discusses the complexities and challenges of managing the aftermath, focusing on the importance of prevention and creating collaborative safety environments. The conversation expands to broader societal issues, including the impact of technology and social media on security and well-being. Both guests emphasize the need for a preventative stance and a compassionate, community-focused approach to addressing and mitigating threats.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• School Shooting Experience: Bruno shares his firsthand experience with a school shooting and the importance of preparation and response.
   
• Prevention Over Reaction: Emphasized the need for proactive threat assessment and the importance of early reporting to prevent violence.
   
• Impact of Technology: The conversation highlighted how technology, especially social media, can be both a tool and a threat in behavioral threat assessment.
   
• Community and Compassion: Stressed the significance of community support and compassion during times of economic and social hardship.
   
• Future Predictions: Discussion on the potential increase in workplace violence and emotional wellness challenges due to economic and political changes.

QUOTES

• "You have to do the work with fidelity...threat assessment is not about risk elimination, it's about risk reduction."
• "Technology can be an accelerant...it can help validate feelings, stimulate ideas, and make ideas operational."
• "In desperate moments, people sometimes will resort to trying to control what they can't...often in destructive ways."
• "We need to use technology as a force for good...it's becoming increasingly difficult for parents and schools to monitor kids' use of technology."
• "By simply letting people know that you have a violence prevention model, you immediately improve their sense of wellness and security."

Get to know more about Dr. Bruno Dias through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brunodiaspci/

Get to know more about Dr. Matt Talbot through the link below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-talbot-phd-lcsw-ccfc-cfmhe-ctm%C2%AE-5a655044/

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.