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.

If you’re enjoying this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show.

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

If you’re enjoying this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show.

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.

If you’re enjoying this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show.

Join Fred Burton as he interviews bestselling author Brad Thor to discuss his latest thriller, Edge of Honor. Brad shares the inspiration behind the book, blending patriotism, traditional spycraft, and modern geopolitical tensions, and dives into the challenges of crafting realistic fiction while staying grounded in current events. He also explores the evolving landscape of corporate security, insights into intelligence operations, and the delicate balance of loyalty versus duty.

• The real-world events and personal stories that shaped Brad's gripping new novel
• The parallels between Scott Harvath’s high-stakes adventures and today’s corporate protection challenges
• Insight into how Brad balances authenticity with storytelling in his renowned thrillers

Pre-order Edge of Honor here: https://bit.ly/4694A7J

If you’re enjoying the show, please take a moment to rate and review.

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Join Fred Burton as he sits down with retired FBI special agent Scott Payne to explore his 28-year career, including daring undercover missions within extremist groups and insights into modern-day radicalization. Scott shares gripping stories from his book, Codename Pale Horse, offering an up-close look at how extremist tactics have evolved and the impact of his infiltration work. Listeners will gain valuable advice on corporate security, threat monitoring, and staying resilient in high-stress environments.

You'll learn:

• How extremist groups operate and recruit, and learn why understanding their tactics is key to effective threat management
• Actionable insights for corporate security teams, including ways to identify and mitigate internal and external risks
• Scott’s firsthand experiences of living undercover and his strategies for managing the psychological toll of high-stakes work

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This episode of the Ontic Connected Intelligence Podcast continues to honor Mental Health Awareness Month with a compelling conversation about mental health in the corporate security field. Hosted by Manish Mehta, this episode features John Rodriguez, founder of Empathic Security Cultures LLC, and Allison Macalik, Director of Solutions at Ontic. Together, they explore the critical need for fostering psychologically safe workplaces, break down the stigma surrounding mental health, and discuss how personal and organizational change can create lasting impact. John shares his 43 years of corporate security experience and unique insights into the intersection of security leadership and mental wellness. Tune in for actionable strategies to prioritize mental health at work and beyond.

You'll learn:

• How leaders can break down mental health stigma and foster a culture of psychological safety in corporate security
• The impact of mental health on security professionals and actionable steps individuals and companies can take to support well-being
• Insights into balancing technology and human connection for effective security leadership

Similar episodes: 

• Empowering Teams Through Mental Health Awareness with Elda Baez
• Fighting Imposter Syndrome and Leading with Vulnerability
• Why We Should Be Concerned About the Mental Health of Protectors
• Shields Down: Addressing Mental Health in the Security Industry