In this episode of the Connected Intelligence Podcast, Jim McConnell shares insights from more than three decades in corporate and critical infrastructure security, exploring the evolution of converged security and safety metrics. Together with Manish, he discusses how organizations can move beyond silos to create unified, data-driven security strategies that strengthen both safety and operational resilience. The conversation also dives into the cultural and practical aspects of launching effective metrics programs and how AI will influence the future of security measurement and decision-making.

You'll learn:

• The difference between security and safety metrics—and why both are essential for creating environments where people truly feel safe
• How to build a culture of accountability around data by focusing on ownership, simplicity, and readiness before launching a metrics program
• Ways AI can serve as a force multiplier for security professionals, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making across converged environments

Learn more in Ontic Resources.

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In this episode, host Fred Burton and co-host Cindy Marble sit down with Michael Evanoff, CSO at Verkada, to discuss his remarkable career spanning corporate security and diplomatic protection. Evanoff reflects on his experiences at the U.S. Department of State and in the private sector, sharing lessons on leadership, collaboration, and adapting protective strategies across diverse environments. The conversation also explores how modern technologies like AI and cloud-based video systems are revolutionizing threat detection and proactive protection across industries. 

You'll learn:

• How Evanoff applied lessons from decades in diplomatic and corporate security to improve collaboration and risk management across organizations
• Why technologies like cloud-based surveillance and AI-driven analytics are game changers for identifying pre-incident behaviors and enhancing real-time situational awareness
• What the concept of Connected Intelligence means in today’s world of integrated security

Learn more in Ontic Resources.

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In this episode, Manish speaks with Michael Civitano, Senior Security Manager of Intelligence and GSOC at ServiceNow, about transforming incident management from reactive firefighting to proactive resilience. They unpack how modern GSOCs can streamline incident detection and response through simplified processes, empowered teams, and the strategic use of AI. The discussion also explores how collaboration, adaptability, and data-driven forecasting elevate incident management from an operational function to a vital business enabler.

What you'll learn:

• How to reimagine incident management as an enterprise-wide risk strategy rather than a siloed security process
• Practical ways to enhance response speed and decision-making through automation, clear playbooks, and human-centered leadership
• Lessons from real-world crises on staying flexible, maintaining communication, and building trusted cross-functional relationships that drive resilience

Learn more about Ontic's Incident Management solution here.

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In this episode of the Connected Intelligence Podcast, Dr. Farhad Tajali joins host Manish to explore how AI and data analytics are transforming the future of security. From video analytics that can detect weapons and suspicious behavior to uncovering hidden patterns in access control and incident data, Dr. Tajali explains why these tools are now mission-critical. The conversation also digs into the cultural and knowledge gaps that keep teams from using data effectively — and how leaders can build confidence, create a metrics-driven mindset, and prepare their organizations for a future where technology and human judgment work hand in hand.

You'll learn:

• How Dr. Tajali applies AI and data analytics to strengthen security programs and uncover threat patterns
• Why confidence, training, and leadership expectations are essential for building data-driven security teams
• Practical steps security professionals can take today to integrate metrics and technology into their daily operations

Take the survey, The State of Data Analytics in Physical Security: Adoption, Challenges & Opportunities, here: https://bit.ly/3WiPpCM

Rachel Briggs, CEO of The Clarity Factory, joins us again on the Connected Intelligence Podcast to share findings from The Clarity Factory's Annual CSO Survey, proudly sponsored by Ontic. We explore how security leaders can break silos, tackle insider risk, and adapt to the rapidly evolving threat landscape. She highlights the growing need for cross-functional partnerships, the rising urgency around insider risk, and the expanding role of AI in security operations. Briggs also explains the importance of storytelling as a leadership skill to connect with the C-suite and demonstrate the value of corporate security.

You'll learn:

• How security leaders can use storytelling to influence executives and secure resources 
• Practical strategies for building effective insider risk programs
• Where CSOs are finding real value with AI today

You can download The Clarity Factory's Annual CSO Survey here.

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In this episode of Ontic's Connected Intelligence Podcast, Jake Williams and Robin Miller share how their Navy backgrounds shaped the founding of Fortified Risk Group and their unique approach to integrating digital and physical security. They discuss the evolution of corporate security, from intelligence-driven threat assessments to proactive risk mitigation strategies tailored for today’s dynamic threat landscape. Listen in for insights into leadership, preparedness, and the importance of upstream thinking in safeguarding organizations and executives. 

You'll learn:

• How Jake and Robin reverse-engineer military strategies into practical corporate security measures that protect clients across industries
• Why integrating digital intelligence with physical protection is critical for closing security gaps and staying ahead of emerging threats
• Leadership lessons from Navy SEAL experience, including the importance of people-first decision-making and practicing proactive, high-stress scenario planning

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In this episode, Fred sits down with Scott McHugh, a veteran of both federal service and Fortune 100 security leadership, to explore what the public and private sectors can learn from each other. They dive into how public-sector urgency, mission focus, and intelligence practices can strengthen corporate programs—and how the private sector’s agility, innovation, and risk tolerance can enhance federal preparedness. The discussion also addresses critical infrastructure threats, the shortcomings of public-private partnerships, and the potential for AI to bridge operational silos across sectors.

You'll learn:

• How public-sector intelligence practices can elevate private security
• Why federal agencies struggle to match the private sector’s tech agility
• What’s missing in public-private security partnerships—and how to fix it

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In this episode, host Manish Mehta speaks with Rachel Briggs, CEO and Co-Founder of The Clarity Factory, about the critical importance of holistic security in modern organizations. They explore the challenges and opportunities of integrating physical and cybersecurity functions, emphasizing the need for effective partnerships and leadership to achieve operational resilience. Rachel shares insights from her research, including a practical maturity model designed to help organizations navigate and implement holistic security strategies.

You'll learn:

• Why integrating physical and cybersecurity is essential for operational resilience and how it can address modern threats more effectively
• Actionable advice on starting conversations, overcoming cultural barriers, and fostering collaboration between security functions
• Real-world examples of organizations successfully implementing holistic security and the transformative impact it has on their operations

Learn more in Ontic Resources.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Holistic Security report
• Holistic Security Maturity Assessment
• The Clarity Factory newsletter

Fred Burton sits down with Nina Hobson, a seasoned executive protection leader, to explore the evolving landscape of security for high-profile individuals. They discuss the critical role of intelligence, the impact of social media on modern protection strategies, and the importance of authenticity and trust in building client relationships. With over 20 years of experience, Nina shares her journey from detective work to global executive protection, offering valuable insights for professionals in the field.

• How social media has transformed risk management and the strategies required to protect high-profile clients in today’s hyper-connected world
• How Nina emphasizes authenticity, reputation, and leading by example to foster trust with clients and teams
• Why intelligence gathering and analysis are the foundation of effective executive protection and how it shapes daily operations

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In this episode of Ontic's Connected Intelligence Podcast, host Manish Mehta interviews Brian Tuskan, Chief Security Officer of ServiceNow, to explore his journey from law enforcement to corporate security leadership. They discuss the transformative role of technology, including AI, in modern security operations and workforce development, while highlighting Brian's innovative Silicon Valley Security Model. The conversation offers valuable insights into adapting to technological advancements and building resilient, efficient security frameworks.

You'll learn:

• How Brian leveraged early computing tools to revolutionize police work and how these lessons apply to today's AI-driven transformations
• Brian's innovative approach to optimizing security operations with elite teams and AI-enabled tools, saving costs while enhancing efficiency
• How AI is democratizing access to education and career opportunities, reshaping workforce development in the security industry

Learn more in Ontic Resources.

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