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What if building a genuine connection could be the key to cracking complex intelligence operations? This episode features Doug Laux, a former CIA case officer and bestselling author of "Left of Boom," who lifts the veil on his secretive world. Doug shares stories from his time working undercover in perilous environments like Afghanistan and Syria, where he learned the indispensable value of human connection and relationship-building. He also discusses his unexpected journey from field operations to television screens, offering a unique glance into life after the agency and the universal principles that guide human behavior, even amidst chaos.

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we explore "left of boom," a term that has journeyed from military manuals into mainstream conversations. We'll uncover the essence of a case officer's role, including the challenges of recruiting spies and establishing trust with former adversaries. Doug reveals the operational hurdles of the Global War on Terror and how concepts like "left of boom" have transcended their original contexts. Through tales of camaraderie and professional bonds, Doug and I reminisce about shared experiences that highlight the ability to forge trust, whether in conflict zones or while engaging in light-hearted banter on alien-themed shows.

Beyond the cloak-and-dagger narratives, we tackle the moral complexities faced by intelligence officers working with former enemies and the persistent tension between adhering to protocol and embracing innovation. Doug provides a rare, candid look into the human side of intelligence operations, where empathy, authenticity, and strategic thinking are vital. From navigating bureaucracies at the CIA to exploring the mysteries of UFOs on Netflix, Doug Laux gives us a comprehensive tour of the paths less traveled, ensuring a captivating listen for anyone curious about the world of espionage and the human elements within.

Check out LEFT OF BOOM

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Hello everyone and welcome back to The Human Behavior Podcast! After a brief hiatus filled with some exciting projects, I'm thrilled to jump into a topic that's both timeless and timely—the concept of time itself.

In this episode, Greg and I unravel the complexities of how we perceive time and how it shapes our experiences, decisions, and behaviors. Drawing from ancient Greek philosophies, we distinguish between Kronos (quantitative, chronological time) and Kairos (qualitative, experiential time), setting the stage for a deep exploration of how these concepts play out in our daily lives.

During the episode we discuss things like the emotional influence on time perception, how attention affects our perception of time, how memory and aging has an influence on time, and we give some practical examples on how we can manipulate our perception of time in order to give ourselves the gift of time and distance!

So sit back, relax, and get ready to expand your understanding of time—not just as numbers on a clock, but as a profound element that influences every facet of human behavior.

Thank you so much for tuning in! We hope you enjoy the episode. Don’t forget to check out our Patreon channel for additional content and subscriber-only episodes. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider leaving us a review and, more importantly, sharing it with a friend.

Thank you for your time, and remember: Training Changes Behavior!

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More about Greg and Brian: https://arcadiacognerati.com/arcadia-cognerati-leadership-team/

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This week, we're debunking the myth that "anything can happen." 
In today's episode, we'll explore how adopting this mindset can increase uncertainty and cognitive load—especially in high-risk environments—and how it might set us up for failure. Instead of believing that "anything can happen," we'll focus on reducing uncertainty by deepening our understanding of human behavior and utilizing practical tools like game theory, probability, and Bayes’ theorem.

Join us as we dive into why strategic thinking, modeled through games, is essential for real-life decision-making. We'll discuss how you can leverage both the knowns and unknowns in human interactions to predict behavior more effectively, minimize ambiguity, and ultimately make better, more informed decisions. Whether you're involved in law enforcement training, making everyday choices, or viewing human behavior as a strategic game, this episode is packed with insights to help you think sharper and be better prepared for whatever comes your way.

Thank you so much for tuning in! We hope you enjoy the episode. Don’t forget to check out our Patreon channel for additional content and subscriber-only episodes. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider leaving us a review and, more importantly, sharing it with a friend.

Thank you for your time, and remember: Training Changes Behavior!

Support the show

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More about Greg and Brian: https://arcadiacognerati.com/arcadia-cognerati-leadership-team/

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In this week's podcast episode, we are joined by one of our Advisory Board members, Dr. Joan Johnston, to talk about why high functioning teams fail. With over 30 years of experience working with the Department of Defense, Dr. Johnston is an expert on decision making and simulation training. Throughout her career she has made a significant impact on advancing the science of Learning, Team Training, Decision Making under Stress, Performance Measurement, and Organizational Development.

For this episode, we use the tragic incident involving the USS Vincennes where the guided missile destroyer accidentally shot down an Iranian passenger plane after mistaking it for an F-14 fighter jet, as a focal point of the discussion. Dr. Johnston walked us through the critical errors that were made during that incident, the role that stress plays on communication and decision-making, and she shares her insights on what it takes to build more resilient, high-performing teams.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the human factors that influence decision-making and how easily things can go wrong—even with the best of teams. But it also provides a hopeful message: with effective training, strong leadership, and a commitment to learning from past mistakes, we can build teams that are more resilient, adaptable, and prepared to handle the challenges they face.

Thank you so much for tuning in, we hope you enjoy the episode and please check out our Patreon channel where we have a lot more content, as well as subscriber only episodes of the show. If you enjoy the podcast, I will kindly ask that you leave us a review and more importantly, please share it with a friend. Thank you for your time and don’t forget that Training Changes Behavior!

Episode Links
https://www.ahrq.gov/teamstepps-program/index.html

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01480/full

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Join us this week us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Kenneth Trump, a renowned authority in school safety with a distinguished career spanning more than 40 years. Dr. Trump takes us on a compelling journey from his early days tackling gang issues in Cleveland schools to becoming a pivotal figure in school safety consulting. Learn how his academic background in social services and public administration laid the foundation for his relentless commitment to integrity and practical solutions in school security.
 
 During the episode, Dr Trump shares some interesting insights into the world of school safety including the influence of private equity and aggressive lobbying by security vendors that often lead school administrators astray. Dr Trump also explains why flashy, high-tech security measures might not be the silver bullet they're marketed to be, and why fundamental practices often get neglected. He shares real-life examples and lessons learned from historical tragedies that underscore the importance of human factors, training, and communication over costly gadgets.
 
We also tackle the complexities of school safety funding, especially in a post-COVID world and we discuss the critical roles of various school staff, from bus drivers to custodians, in maintaining a secure environment. 

Towards the end of the show we get into the rising trend of holding parents accountable for school shootings, with recent cases shedding light on this controversial issue. Through our dialogue with Dr. Trump, we emphasize the need for leadership, community involvement, and effective training to foster a balanced and sustainable approach to school safety. Don't miss this insightful episode packed with expert knowledge and practical advice.

Thank you so much for tuning in, we hope you enjoy the episode and please check out our Patreon channel where we have a lot more content, as well as subscriber only episodes of the show. If you enjoy the podcast, I will kindly ask that you leave us a review and more importantly, please share it with a friend. Thank you for your time and don’t forget that Training Changes Behavior!

Dr. Ken Trump: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kentrump/

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This week we are “unmasking” a landmark case from New York that challenges our views on policing, legislation, and the balance between security and civil liberties. During the episode we explore the arrest of an 18-year-old under a new mask ban law, delving into the legal and social implications of this contentious issue and how this legislation provides the police with a new method for establishing reasonable suspicion, and what it means for our rights and protections under the Constitution.
 
 Our discussion dives into the intricate nuances of law enforcement discretion around mask-wearing. We illustrate how behaviors like "urban masking" and "social camouflage" can influence police decisions, and why clear guidelines are crucial to avoid arbitrary enforcement. By examining historical context and the modern-day application of mask laws, we shed light on the challenges officers face when navigating the fine line between letter-of-the-law enforcement and the spirit-of-the-law discretion. We also highlight the importance of contextual cues and the totality of circumstances in making stops or arrests.
 
 Our conversation emphasizes the necessity of balancing public safety with personal freedoms, and the critical role of intent in law enforcement decisions. From behavioral analysis to the emotional drivers behind legislation, this episode provides an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and offers new insights into the intersection of law, safety, and individual rights.

Thank you so much for tuning in, we hope you enjoy the episode and please check out our Patreon channel where we have a lot more content, as well as subscriber only episodes of the show. If you enjoy the podcast, I would kindly ask that you leave us a review and more importantly, please share it with a friend. Thank you for your time and don’t forget that Training Changes Behavior!

News Article: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/aug/28/arrest-nassau-county-face-mask-ban

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Did you know that mastering the art of small talk could change your life? Join us for a fascinating journey into the world of effective communication and information gathering, where Greg and I bring our contrasting styles to the forefront. From hostage negotiations to courtroom dramas, you'll discover how leveraging the power of small talk can transform your communication skills.
 
 During the episode we explain the power of building trust through common ground as we share valuable lessons learned from personal experiences and family anecdotes. Whether it’s identifying key decision-makers, balancing confidence with authenticity, or engaging in casual conversation about shared interests, you'll learn how these vital skills can make social interactions safer and more meaningful. 
 
 Finally, we offer practical strategies for navigating social interactions with humor and authenticity. From the importance of situational awareness in everyday conversations to advanced techniques for de-escalation in high-stress environments, our insights are both relatable and actionable. Through real-life examples, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how to read a room, engage others effectively, and build rapport. Tune in to enhance your ability to connect, gather valuable information, and create positive human connections in every interaction.

Thank you so much for tuning in, we hope you enjoy the episode and please check out our Patreon channel where we have a lot more content, as well as subscriber only episodes of the show. If you enjoy the podcast, I would kindly ask that you leave us a review and more importantly, please share it with a friend. Thank you for your time and don’t forget that Training Changes Behavior!

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More about Greg and Brian: https://arcadiacognerati.com/arcadia-cognerati-leadership-team/

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Humans are great at pattern recognition, but we often fail at the analysis portion because we have to rely primarily on subjective interpretations of events. So, this week, we are talking about the difficulty in determining when a situation has met a threshold for action, and we give you some basic takeaways that you can use to determine when it’s time to intervene.

During the episode we break down various real-life scenarios, including a mayor's criminal actions, a chilling family annihilator case, and an ambush on law enforcement, to illustrate how taking the time to identify seemingly subtle cues allows you to see a much clearer picture of an event. 

We explore the often-overlooked shifts in behavior that can lead to catastrophic outcomes, using natural patterns and high-profile cases like Chad Dorman and Misty Roberts as examples. You'll learn about the role of attribution errors and the necessity of adjusting your baselines to maintain accurate situational awareness, particularly in high-stakes environments like law enforcement. 
 
 Finally, we delve into the importance of critical thinking and adaptive strategies in understanding human behavior. By examining historical precedents and concepts like Darwinian evolution and power dynamics, we discuss how to reassess and correct harmful patterns. This episode also emphasizes the significance of time, communication, and seeking feedback to navigate unpredictable situations effectively. 

Thank you so much for tuning in, we hope you enjoy the episode and please check out our Patreon channel where we have a lot more content, as well as subscriber only episodes of the show. If you enjoy the podcast, I would kindly ask that you leave us a review and more importantly, please share it with a friend. Thank you for your time and don’t forget that Training Changes Behavior!

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More about Greg and Brian: https://arcadiacognerati.com/arcadia-cognerati-leadership-team/

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This week we are joined by a very special guest, Board Certified Behavior Analyst Kendall Rindak-Samuel. Kendall joined us to talk about the fascinating world of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), showing how it can transform fields like education, sports, and corporate systems. Join us as we debunk common myths and gain an enriched understanding of human behavior, all while Kendall shares her dual expertise in behavioral sports psychology and dissemination.

During the episode Kendall discusses the value of ongoing research beyond initial education, highlighting how honing observational skills in daily life can strengthen both personal and professional relationships. She also touches on the pitfalls of self-diagnosis on social media and underscores the need for ethical standards in changing behaviors that genuinely impact individuals’ lives. 
 
 Effective communication is crucial in behavior analysis, and Kendall excels at translating complex terms into accessible language. She recently wrote a book called “Talk Behavior to Me: The Routledge Dictionary of the Top 150 Behavior Analytic Terms and Translations” so that the average person can better understand the different terms used in behavioral analysis. Tune in for practical insights and strategies to enhance your observational skills and deepen your understanding of human behavior, guided by Kendall's expert perspective.

Thank you so much for tuning in, we hope you enjoy the episode and please check out our Patreon channel where we have a lot more content, as well as subscriber only episodes of the show. If you enjoy the podcast, I would kindly ask that you leave us a review and more importantly, please share it with a friend. Thank you for your time and don’t forget that Training Changes Behavior!

Check out Kendall's book: https://a.co/d/c4Z3s1s

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This week, we bring you an analysis of one of the most alarming events in recent history: the attempted assassination of Donald Trump by Thomas Crooks. We dive deep into the psychological profile of Crooks, examining how his actions challenge our preconceived notions of what drives someone to commit such violent acts. By comparing his behaviors and planning to those of school shooters, we uncover a chilling quest for notoriety and historical infamy. Our discussion also reveals the procedural and communication lapses that allowed this plan to unfold and highlights missed opportunities for intervention.

Join us as we dissect the critical elements of interagency communication and the human factors that can make or break critical operations. Our conversation sheds light on the complexities of coordination gaps and why maintaining seamless collaboration is paramount. We share real-life anecdotes from combat zones to illustrate how minor mistakes can escalate into significant consequences. By focusing on Crook’s behavior before and during the attack, we bring a nuanced understanding of his intentions, moving beyond speculative opinions to factual evidence.

In the final segments, we emphasize the importance of identifying genuine patterns in criminal behavior without succumbing to confirmation bias. By analyzing specific case studies and psychological motives, we stress the necessity of letting patterns emerge naturally to gain accurate insights. Our conversation covers everything from Crooks' choice in pornography to the type of bomb he used, aiming to piece together a comprehensive profile that can aid in preventing future threats. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode that challenges your understanding of criminal psychology, and the steps needed to ensure such events are not repeated.                                                                       

Thank you so much for tuning in, we hope you enjoy the episode and please check out our Patreon channel where we have a lot more content, as well as subscriber only episodes of the show. If you enjoy the podcast, I would kindly ask that you leave us a review and more importantly, please share it with a friend. Thank you for your time and don’t forget that Training Changes Behavior!

Support the show

Website: https://thehumanbehaviorpodcast.buzzsprout.com/share

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More about Greg and Brian: https://arcadiacognerati.com/arcadia-cognerati-leadership-team/