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.

In this episode, Mark Ledlow is joined by Robert Guillot, owner and founder of CenterPoint Security Solutions, talks about his extensive career in security and law enforcement. Rob shares his journey, which includes service in the Border Patrol, the ATF, and his role as a Chief Security Officer in the oil and gas industry. They delve into topics like the complexities of border security, the strategic implementations in oil and gas security, and the support from organizations like ASIS. Rob also discusses his transition from law enforcement to the private sector, his recent ventures, and the camaraderie within the security sector. Tune in for insights into the challenges and experiences faced in different facets of the security field.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Guest Introduction: Rob Guillot, with a rich background in law enforcement and security.
   
• Career Journey: Rob transitioned from federal law enforcement to private sector security, ending up in a key role within an oil and gas company.
   
• Values Networking: Importance of networking and organizations like ASIS in career growth.
   
• Security Challenges: Discusses the complexities and risks in oil and gas security management.
   
• Industry Insights: Highlights the critical role of teamwork and the extensive effort required in the oil and gas industry.

QUOTES

• "The security industry, the true professionals, they want to help people."
   
• "Stopping the bleeding means reducing the amount of people coming into the country that we have no idea who they are."
   
• "The oil and gas industry is fascinating, and I don't think people appreciate how many smart people it takes to figure out where to drill and extract crude."
   
• "The totality of everything going on in oil and gas is pretty overwhelming."

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 and Dr. Rob McKenna, a psychology expert and leader of WiLD Leaders. They discuss leadership, trust, and development across generations. Dr. McKenna highlights the importance of clear metrics, inspired by his gaming experience, to motivate and manage the younger workforce. The conversation covers the necessity of trust in organizations, the impact of emotional maturity on leadership, and the challenge of managing cultural polarization. McKenna emphasizes the importance of intentional development and strategic goal-setting to foster a productive and harmonious workplace.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Intentional Leadership Development: Organizations must focus on developing leaders intentionally through measurable goals and systems.
• Trust and Measurement: Trust is foundational for organizational performance, revealed through consistent and transparent metrics.
• Conflict Management: Effective conflict management is crucial for innovation and team cohesion, requiring both clarity and empathy from leaders.
• Succession Planning: Preparing for succession should be part of a long-term leadership development strategy, rather than a desperate last-minute solution.
• Gaming Insights: Insights from gaming, such as metrics and motivation strategies, can be applied to organizational development to enhance performance.

QUOTES

• "Trust is something we have to continue to work at day after day after day."
• "You can't make everybody happy without lying to somebody.
• "Succession planning is leadership development after you've become desperate."
• "When trust is present, it's like a natural lubricant, but it takes maintenance."

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 dives into a refreshing discussion with security experts Bruno Dias and Matt Talbot. The duo, both holding doctorates, shares their intense journey through academia, the challenges of maintaining certifications like the CTM, and the importance of physical security and workplace violence prevention. They highlight their new business venture and mentorship program aimed at elevating industry standards and helping others transition into the field of threat assessment. With anecdotes from their careers and practical advice, this episode offers a deep look into the dynamics of threat management and the value of fostering connections using unconventional methods like discussions about tattoos.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Education and Experience: Both guests have extensive education and operational experience in their fields
• Importance of Connection: Using unique methods like discussing tattoos to connect with people in challenging environment
• Mentorship and Community Service: They emphasize the importance of mentoring and providing resources to help others enter and thrive in the threat assessment field.
• Comprehensive Services: Their business, CO, offers a wide range of services from physical security assessments to crisis response and workplace violence prevention.

QUOTES

• "Flying is a high-risk situation... and you have to maintain certification by hours.
• "Most people just want to feel connected to something and a part of something and have at least one other person that they can relate to.
• "Graduating, getting that degree. That's the best part about it."
• "There are so many similarities in terms of just the pace at which we were able to get through our respective programs.
• "The best thing about a PhD program is that every eight-hour work day now feels like somewhat of a vacation day
• "At the end of the day, most people just want to feel connected to something and a part of something
• "We understand the value of physical security assessments in violence prevention."
• "We won't offer anything that we haven't done directly, boots on the ground."

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-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.