Join host Mark Ledlow in this gripping episode of the Fearless Mindset podcast as he delves into the inspiring story of Jennifer Powell, a former attorney turned mentor and educator. Jen's extraordinary journey from a prosecutor to an impassioned educator and now a businesswoman in security unravels the essence of courage, purpose, and adapting to life's curveballs. Uncover the challenges she faced and her relentless pursuit of protecting and guiding the next generation toward the path of law enforcement.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adversity and Adaptation: Witness Jen's path from prosecuting attorney to a passionate mentor and educator, highlighting the challenges she faced and her determination to protect and serve.
• Finding Purpose: Explore the importance of finding one's calling and purpose, and the remarkable journey of discovering a passion for protection and guiding aspiring law enforcement officers.
• Impact of Peer Pressure: Understand the impact of societal perceptions and peer pressure on the younger generation's career choices and how it affects their decisions to pursue law enforcement.
• The Art of Writing and Critical Thinking: Emphasize the value of strong writing skills and critical thinking in professions like law enforcement and the potential impact of technological advancements on these essential skills.
• Fostering the Next Generation: Witness the dedication to nurturing and guiding the future law enforcement officers by providing hands-on experience and a purpose-driven approach.

QUOTES

• "You only live once. There's no retakes. This is not a rehearsal. You gotta go for it."
• "Money is not enough. What's your plan here? What's your purpose?"
• "It's all about reaching out to those with the heart for it and connecting them to their purpose."

Get to know more about Jennifer Powell:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-powell-a829995/

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 riveting conversation with Pete Morton, a military veteran and intelligence officer, who shares his firsthand knowledge and insights about handling adversity and crisis situations. They delve into the intricacies of information warfare, the challenge of misinformation, and the impact of emotional responses on decision-making during times of crisis. Their discussion provides a unique perspective on the recent events in Israel and how world events are interconnected.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The podcast explores the challenges of navigating a rapidly changing information landscape, including the dangers of misinformation and the emotional response cycle in the age of instant news.
• Pete Morton discusses the geopolitical landscape and how crises around the world are interconnected, offering valuable insights into the situation in Israel.
• The episode highlights the importance of restraint and strategic thinking in addressing crises, emphasizing that quick, emotional reactions may not always be the best course of action.
• Pete's extensive experience in crisis response and negotiation sheds light on the complexities of hostage situations and the difficult choices faced by governments and families.

QUOTES

• "War sucks. There are no winners. It's bad all around for everybody. There's no good outcome." - Pete Morton
• "Misinformation and emotional responses perpetuate the crisis and turn one crisis into multiple crises." - Pete Morton
• "It's better to have the support of the government behind you. You have to make sure you're providing something that's relevant to what they need." - Pete Morton
• "We're protectors. We don't want to see people suffer. We want to take bad guys. That's what we've done for years." - Mark Ledlow
• "Rushing into hostage situations is never a good idea. The hardest thing for me is when the government gets involved." - Pete Morton

Get to know more about Pete Morton:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-l-morton-cpp-08239614/

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 deep and insightful conversation with Tim Wenzel, an expert in the security industry and a driving force behind the Kindness Games movement. The discussion spans various topics, including leadership, emotional intelligence, adapting to changing economic landscapes, and the power of kindness in fostering positive workplace environments.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Stay agile in uncertain times: Embrace change and adapt quickly to the evolving business landscape.
• Understand the value of assets: Prioritize security based on the asset's short-term and long-term value.
• Focus on uncertainty, not just risk: Identify what uncertainties may affect your business and proactively manage them.
• Budget cuts can create opportunities: Consider using consultants and vendor services to fill gaps when budgets are reduced.
• The Kindness Games can be transformative: Engaging in a culture of kindness and empathy can have a profound impact on personal and professional growth.

QUOTES

• "Time allows things to calm down, and time is your best friend." - Mark Ledlow
• "We really can't allow past mistakes to haunt us and allow us to not move forward." - Tim Wenzel
• "We all want to be better. We all want to be the best. We all want to be well thought of. Let's help each other get there." - Tim Wenzel
• "Change is always happening, and companies are going to be increasingly agile." - Tim Wenzel
• "Money is just a byproduct of impacting people's lives." - Mark Ledlow

Get to know more about Tim:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/relevant-perception/
• Website: https://www.owninglifestories.com/

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 guest Tim Wenzel dive into the importance of leading with kindness and building authentic connections in the security industry. They share their experiences from a recent conference, GSX, where they witnessed a transformative culture of collaboration, friendship, and trust. They discuss the significance of recognizing our common humanity, forgiving past grievances, and embracing the power of relationships in business. Mark and Tim explore how to create a culture of kindness within organizations and offer practical insights for both personal and professional growth.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Building genuine relationships and trust is paramount in the security industry.
• Forgiveness and letting go of grudges can open the door to fruitful connections.
• The power of in-person connections and face-to-face meetings cannot be underestimated.
• Embrace the philosophy of "leading with kindness" by recognizing our common humanity.
• Everyone has aspirations and occasionally falls short—plan for disappointment and be understanding.

QUOTES

• "Trust is earned, and friendship is earned. Then the business comes as a side effect." - Mark Ledlow
• "Recognizing our common humanity is understanding that we all have aspirations and we all occasionally fall short of them." - Tim Wenzel

Get to know more about Tim:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/relevant-perception/
• Website: https://www.owninglifestories.com/

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, Hector Robles, President of First Call in Mexico, shares his expertise on security, business development, and organization standardization in Mexico. Mark and Hector discuss the challenges and misconceptions about security in Mexico, the impact of U.S. politics on the country, and the upcoming EP Summit in Mexico City.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Mexico's security situation is complex, and it's important for travelers and businesses to be well-informed and prepared.
• The media sometimes exaggerates security issues in Mexico, but the reality can vary greatly depending on the region.
• Effective risk management and protection involve understanding local customs, traditions, and having a good network of local contacts.
• The U.S. presidential election can significantly affect Mexico's economy and immigration policies.
• It's crucial for Mexico, the U.S., and Canada to work together for mutual prosperity and security.
• The EP Summit in Mexico City is a growing event that brings together security professionals and experts from around the world to share knowledge and insights.

QUOTES

• "People in Mexico are afraid. Six out of 10 people think Mexico is not a safe place."
• "Don't be a soft target. Enjoy life, enjoy the beach, but know where to live."
• "The U.S. deserves a lot better than polarization. We need to work together and find common ground."
• "The industry is growing so much. Everybody wants to travel and see each other."

Get to know more about Hector:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hector-robles-conde-0a0b1b64/

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, Julio Gonzalez shares his insights on how to handle adversity in business and personal finance, with a focus on helping veterans and business owners navigate the complex world of taxes. They discuss the impact of presidential elections on the economy, the future of remote work, the changing landscape of higher education, and the importance of preserving wealth. Julio's passion for assisting veterans shines through as he offers valuable advice and resources for veterans looking to optimize their financial strategies.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The importance of staying informed about tax incentives and strategies in a changing economic landscape.
• Veterans can benefit from tax incentives and grants to preserve their wealth and reduce their tax burden.
• The impact of presidential elections on interest rates, inflation, and the economy.
• The shift towards remote work and its implications for the future of business and real estate.
• The rising cost of higher education and alternatives to traditional college degrees.
• The need for a phased transition to green technology without accumulating excessive debt.
• The advantages of relocating to states with no income tax to reduce tax liabilities.
• The role of community support and resources in helping veterans and business owners thrive.

QUOTES

• "It takes a community to lift us all up, and we're part of that team in your community to help you."
• "We don't have to be your accountant; we can work with your accountant to provide advice."
• "We always come back to a position of leadership in this world."
• "Veterans can trade somewhat of their wages for more freedom."
• "Let it all accumulate way too much debt to support an industry that's not ready."

Get to know more about Julio:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julio-gonzalez-tax/

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, host Mark Ludlow engages in a deep discussion with Hector Robles, President of First Call in Mexico. The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of crime, exploring shifts in criminal activities such as the rise of human trafficking and changing drug markets. They shed light on the plight of immigrants and the economic and security conditions that force them to leave their home countries. The discussion extends to security policies and tourism, emphasizing the need for ethical practices in the security industry. Additionally, the episode unveils the ongoing efforts to standardize executive protection with organizations like BEEP and ANSI.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The evolving nature of criminal activities, with a shift from drug trafficking to human trafficking and cybercrime.
• Hector Robles emphasizes the vulnerability of immigrants who often become victims of organized crime when crossing borders.
• The complexities of immigration issues and security concerns in countries like El Salvador and Honduras.
• There's a debate about the effectiveness of certain government policies, such as El Salvador's security measures under President Bukele.
• The presence of international criminal organizations like the Russian and Romanian mafia involved in various illicit activities, including human trafficking and cybercrime.
• It's noted that cybercrime has become a preferred method for criminal organizations due to its profitability and reduced physical risk.
• The need for standardized training and certification in the executive protection industry is discussed, with ANSI (American National Standards Institute) being a potential guiding authority.
• Different organizations, such as ASIS, ATAP, and IFPO, offer various certifications and standards in the field of executive protection.

QUOTES

• "Once we know what we must do, we do what we can do."
• "Ethics, values, good behavior—that's what the industry is about."
• "Imagine back in the nineties, it was even worse with hate crimes."
• "Executive protection is a profitable industry, but not for everyone."
• "ANSI is the American National Standards Institute, similar to ISO but specific to the U.S."

Get to know more about Hector:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hector-robles-conde-0a0b1b64/

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, Mark Ledlow interviews Julio Gonzalez, CEO of several companies, including one specializing in tax services. Julio discusses various financial and tax-related topics, including the benefits of real estate investments, tax incentives for hiring veterans, grants for veteran-owned businesses, and the importance of tax planning for professional athletes. The conversation also touches on the current economic climate, rising interest rates, and the need for businesses to retain cash during uncertain times.

Overall, the discussion highlights the importance of tax planning, taking advantage of available tax incentives, and the potential benefits of investments like real estate. Julio emphasizes the value of knowledge and expertise in managing finances effectively in various sectors.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Julio Gonzales, CEO of multiple companies, discusses various financial topics..
• He highlights the benefits of investing in real estate, such as lower interest rates and tax write-offs.
• The 1031 exchange is a valuable tool for deferring profits from property sales by reinvesting in real estate.
• Julio emphasizes the significance of grants available to veteran-owned businesses, encouraging them to apply for these grants.
• Tax credits and incentives are available for hiring veterans, providing additional financial benefits to employers.
• Julio mentions the importance of retaining cash for small businesses during economic uncertainty.
• He questions the wisdom of raising interest rates on small businesses dealing with inflation and higher labor costs.
• Julio advises CFOs of larger companies to prioritize cash retention during uncertain economic periods.

QUOTES

• "We've got to invest in ourselves, and it starts with savings, having savings and having some type of cash balances to get through this inflationary period and get through the presidential cycle and get to the other side of it and hopefully be better from it." - Julio Gonzalez
• "More than ever, you've got to retain cash. It's vital to have cash. We've got to invest in ourselves, and it starts with savings." - Julio Gonzalez
• "Why are we raising interest rates on small business owners that are dealing with inflation, dealing with higher labor rates, wages, and things of that nature?" - Julio Gonzalez
• "It's just that we're trying to make sure that all businesses have these resources." - Julio Gonzalez
• "If we invest in ourselves, we get to write it off. If we put our money in an IRA, we get to write it off. We can use that to buy the property, and because we have it in an IRA, we get to defer the gains, much like we do at 1031." - Julio Gonzalez
• "You're going to do better with the cash than the government. I think it's vital to have cash." - Julio Gonzalez

Get to know more about Julio:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julio-gonzalez-tax/

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.

Hector Robles, a President of First Call out of Mexico, joins Mark Ledlow on the Fearless Mindset Podcast to discuss the importance of networking and building relationships in the security industry. They reflect on their experiences at the IPSB conference and emphasize the value of connecting with colleagues and strategic partners. Hector also shares a cautionary tale about the dangers of walking barefoot on hot sand and the importance of being mindful of safety, especially when traveling with children. The conversation then shifts to the current state of security in Mexico, with Hector providing insights into the perception of safety and the reality of organized crime. He explains that while there are areas of concern, Mexico City remains a vibrant and culturally rich destination for tourists. Hector also highlights the increase in international business investment in Mexico, particularly in the automotive, aerospace, and green energy sectors. He attributes this growth to the concept of "new shoring," where companies are relocating their operations to Mexico due to logistical challenges in other parts of the world. However, Hector notes that finding qualified labor and addressing infrastructure limitations are ongoing challenges for businesses in Mexico.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Networking at conferences is essential for building relationships and trust within the security industry.
• It is important to be mindful of safety, especially when traveling with children, and to avoid leaving them unattended in hot temperatures.
• Shootings and organized crime in Mexico are primarily concentrated in border towns and remote areas, and tourists are unlikely to be directly affected.
• Mexico has seen an increase in international business investment, particularly in the automotive, aerospace, and green energy sectors.
• "New shoring" is a trend where companies are relocating their operations to Mexico due to logistical challenges in other parts of the world.

QUOTES

• "We haven't seen an industry that works together like this one." - Hector Robles
• "If one company does something wrong, it tarnishes the whole industry." - Hector Robles
• "Don't let the client go because you don't have operations. Instead, build a relationship." - Hector Robles
• "Take it as a vacation, like with your friends and just flow and just be you." - Hector Robles
• "Wear your sandals, do the proper thing, and don't leave your kids unattended." - Hector Robles
• "Mexico City has a lot to offer with its museums, food, and beautiful architecture." - Hector Robles
• "Mexico is experiencing an increase in international business investment due to new shoring." - Hector Robles

Get to know more about Hector:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hector-robles-conde-0a0b1b64/

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, host Mark Ludlow and Tim Wenzel, Associate Managing Director under Security Risk Management at Kroll Consulting Corporation, talk about the importance of building a strong network and how it can lead to new job opportunities. Tim emphasizes the need to be intentional in every interaction and to align one's purpose with the goals of others. He also shares his insights on handling adversity, dealing with haters, and the importance of personal branding. The conversation concludes with Tim's forecast for the security industry and his advice for professionals looking to navigate the current uncertain times.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Building a strong network is essential for career success and job opportunities.
• Be intentional in every interaction and align your purpose with the goals of others.
• Take responsibility for how people experience you, but don't worry about what they think or say about you.
• Embrace uncertainty and be open to new opportunities in different industries.
• Put yourself out there and share your ideas, even if they are not mainstream or popular.
   

QUOTES

• "We are responsible for how people experience us, but we're not responsible for what they think about us or say about us afterwards."
• "If you're intentional and thoughtful about it, you're going to make that target more often than not."
• "Haters are going to hate."
• "Don't spend time holding grudges. Extend a little grace."
• "Position yourself by having really good conversations with a diverse portfolio of people across different industries."
• "Your weakness can become your strength."
• "It's okay not to know, but know where to find the information and who to contact."
• "Leadership is about being the fall guy and rallying your team around a common goal."
• "Take care of your mental and physical health. Stress in this industry can have serious consequences."

Get to know more about Tim:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/relevant-perception/
• Website: https://www.owninglifestories.com/

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.