The Security Circle

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Bio:

Eva Benn is a Principal Security Program Manager for the Microsoft Security and Response center. Eva has spent more of her security in red teaming and penetration testing, both as a people leader and hands-on practitioner. Before joining Microsoft, she worked in Big 4 cybersecurity consulting, leading global penetration testing and cybersecurity initiatives across various industries. She is a globally recognized security leader, holding an extensive list of industry certifications, including CISSP, CEH, CCSP, Security+, GSEC, GCIH, GSTRT, GPEN, GWAPT, GRTP, etc. As an international keynote speaker, Eva is known for her disruptive thinking, unconventional storytelling, and high-energy stage presence. She has a unique ability to break down complex security challenges into captivating, actionable insights that inspire audiences worldwide. She frequently speaks on topics such as red teaming, cyber threat simulation, adversarial tactics, and the future of cyber defense. Eva’s presentations challenge conventional wisdom, offering fresh approaches on how to outpace attackers and rethink security in an AI-driven world. Beyond her work at Microsoft, Eva is deeply involved in the security community, having served/serving on the leadership boards of the OWASP for LLM Project, OWASP Seattle Chapter, WiCyS Western Washington, ISACA Puget Sound Chapter, the EC Council CEH Advisory Board, and the GIAC Advisory Board. She was also a founding Co-Chair of the Microsoft Women in Security and Co-Founder of Women in Tech Global. Her con

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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Dr Carl Gibson’s career is nothing short of extraordinary — a journey that spans science, national security, aviation, government strategy, academia, and frontline emergency response.

In this episode, Carl takes us from his early beginnings in the north of England, through military service as an army officer and time spent in policing, before pursuing a PhD in neuropathology. His scientific career led him to Australia, where he headed a disease investigation and research unit, working on complex outbreaks including insect-borne viruses, a mass blindness event in kangaroos, and a large-scale marine die-off affecting pilchards. His work brought him into collaboration with global organisations including the Centers for Disease Control and the Institut Pasteur, and into direct briefings with government ministers and senior leadership.

From there, Carl transitioned into government, taking on a senior role in the Department of Premier and Cabinet, leading strategy, planning, and contributing to national security efforts at a state level. He then moved into the aviation sector, holding an executive position with Australia’s second-largest airline, where he led risk management, crisis management, emergency management, and business continuity.

His career continued into regulatory leadership as a senior executive within a health and safety regulator, before moving into higher education as Deputy Chief Operating Officer at a major university, where he spent over a decade in senior leadership roles. Today, Carl operates as a consultant, bringing together decades of cross-sector expertise.

Alongside this remarkable professional journey, Carl has spent over 35 years as an active volunteer firefighter with the Country Fire Authority in Australia. Rising to the role of lieutenant and training officer, he has led teams on the frontline of some of the most dangerous bushfire environments in the world, including serving as an incident controller. Firefighting is not just his role, but a family commitment — his wife serves as a brigade captain, and all three of his children have followed the same path into emergency service and healthcare professions.

This episode is not just a story of roles and titles — it is a masterclass in lived experience. Carl shares powerful insights on risk, resilience, climate variability, leadership under pressure, and the reality of decision-making when theory gives way to real-world consequences.

From laboratories to government cabinets, from airline crisis rooms to burning fire lines, Carl Gibson’s story is a reminder that true expertise is built not in isolation — but in action, over time, and often under pressure.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-carl-a-gibson-2a26882/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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Summary

This week on The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda sits down with Anna Rowe, founder of Catch the Catfish and co-founder of LoveSaid, to expose the hidden reality of romance fraud.

What starts as connection quickly becomes manipulation.

From love bombing and trauma bonding to financial exploitation and psychological control, Anna shares her personal experience and the patterns she now sees every day supporting victims and working with law enforcement and banks.

This isn’t just about scams.

It’s about human vulnerability, behavioural manipulation, and systemic failure.

Together, they explore:

• Why romance fraud is increasing despite “platform protections”
• How criminals exploit psychology, not just technology
• The failure of big tech and the unintended consequences of automation
• Why victims are still being blamed — and why that must change
• The role of banks, platforms, and regulation in stopping this crime

This episode will change how you think about trust, identity, and digital safety.

Because this isn’t just fraud.

It’s manipulation at scale.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-rowe-95323753/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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🎙️ Why Is Security by Design Still an Afterthought?

The Security Circle Podcast with Pablo Breuer

Security leaders have been talking about “security by design” for years. The principle is simple: build security into systems, technology, and processes from the very beginning — not bolt it on once the damage is already done.

So why does it still so often arrive too late?

In this episode of The Security Circle Podcast, host Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen is joined by cybersecurity strategist and former U.S. Navy Information Warfare officer Pablo Breuer for a candid conversation about the gap between security theory and real-world implementation.

Drawing on experience across military information warfare, cyber defence, and enterprise security, Pablo explores why organisations continue to treat security as a compliance exercise rather than a design principle. From technology innovation racing ahead of governance, to the growing threat of disinformation and influence operations, the discussion highlights how the modern threat landscape demands a far more integrated approach to security thinking.

Together they explore:

• Why security by design often struggles to gain traction inside organisations
• The cultural and leadership barriers that keep security on the sidelines
• How influence operations and information warfare are changing the security landscape
• Why protecting systems is no longer enough — people and perception are now part of the attack surface
• What it really takes to embed security into innovation, strategy, and decision-making

This episode challenges a difficult question for every organisation:

If we all agree security should be built in from the start…

Why do we still treat it as an afterthought?

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pablobreuer/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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The SIA Update: What’s Changing in 2026 (And Why It Matters)

The regulatory landscape of UK security is shifting — and 2026 could be a defining year.

In this exclusive return to The Security Circle, Michelle Russell, CEO of the Security Industry Authority (SIA), shares a major update on the direction of travel for the regulator and the wider industry.

From a landmark move under the Security Minister’s portfolio to the implementation of Martyn’s Law, the SIA is preparing for one of the most significant expansions of its remit since its creation.

But this episode goes beyond headlines.

We explore:

• The move from “binary compliance” to judging quality
• Why 98% compliance still demands stronger enforcement
• Operation Resolute and tackling training malpractice
• The future of business licensing — voluntary and potentially mandatory
• How public trust and protective security are being redefined

This is not just about regulation.
It’s about raising standards.
It’s about visibility.
It’s about cultural change.

If you work in security — whether frontline, leadership or procurement — this conversation will shape how you think about the next five years.

2026 isn’t just another year.
It’s a pivot point.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-russell-2938991b/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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🎙️ Podcast Summary

The Security Institute: Standards, Leadership, and the Future of the Profession
with Sarah Austerberry (CEO) and Julie Nel (Chair)

In this episode of the Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda Hamblen is joined by Sarah Austerberry, CEO of the Security Institute, and Julie Nel, Chair of the Institute, for a candid discussion about professional standards, leadership under pressure, and the evolving maturity of the security industry.

This is not a conversation about labels. It’s a conversation about leadership, credibility, and the long game of building a profession.

Raising the Standard of Security

At its core, the Security Institute exists to professionalise the industry. That means:

• Validated professional grades
• Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
• Cross-sector collaboration (public, private, government, military)
• Active engagement in policy and standards

Unlike more niche associations, the Institute positions itself as a broad, cross-disciplinary body. Whether you’re front line, intelligence, risk, cyber, protective security, academia or consultancy, there’s a place within its structure.

The key differentiator? Validation and accountability.
Professional grades are assessed. CPD is expected. Standards are upheld.

For employers and clients, that matters.

From Membership to Leadership

Julie reflects on her journey from member to Chair — and the reality of driving change within a long-established institution.Her focus has been simple: modernise perception, increase collaboration, and ensure the Institute reflects the industry as it exists today — not as it was perceived years ago.That hasn’t been without resistance.But leadership, as she makes clear, means absorbing pressure, holding course, and staying aligned to the long-term mission rather than short-term noise.

It’s a frank reminder that influence roles require resilience — and sometimes thick skin. The CEO Perspective: Decision-Making Under Pressure- Sarah offers valuable insight for senior leaders.

Stepping into the CEO role, she highlights a critical lesson:

Her approach:

• Build strong internal teams
• Use trusted external networks
• Test hypotheses before committing to decisions
• Recognise that leadership is not a solo act

Sarah frames change not as disruption, but as opportunity — when it is purposeful, proportionate, and clearly communicated.

Julie reinforces the reality that driving institutional change can be uncomfortable — especially when challenging legacy perceptions — but avoiding change is riskier.

Security, as a profession, cannot afford stagnation.

Imposter Syndrome Reframed

The discussion also touches on “imposter syndrome” — but reframed in practical terms.

Instead of seeing it as weakness, it’s positioned as a signal:

• You are stretching.
• You are outside your comfort zone.
• You are growing.

For leaders and emerging professionals alike, that’s a powerful shift in mindset.

Community, Network, and the Long Game

Perhaps the most compelling takeaway is the emphasis on community.

The Institute’s value is not just accreditation — it’s access:

• 40+ years of collective experience in one room
• Public and private sector cross-pollination
• Mentorship and servant leadership
• Informal peer support when leadership gets heavy

Security can be isolating at senior levels. Membership bodies — when functioning properly — remove that isolation.

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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🎙 Podcast Summary

The War We’re Already In: Intelligence, Identity, and the Fight for Critical Thinking

In this episode of The Security Circle Podcast, Yoyo sits down with Dr. Gustav A. Otto — an internationally recognised national security, defence, and strategic intelligence leader with more than 30 years of experience across HUMINT, counterintelligence, defence operations, and international security cooperation 

Gus’s career spans sensitive operations in conflict zones, Five Eyes security collaboration, and senior advisory roles shaping national security governance. Today, through his advisory firm, he translates high-level intelligence lessons into practical leadership tools for security professionals operating under pressure.

But this conversation isn’t about war stories.

It’s about something far more immediate.

We are no longer living in a world of clearly defined peace.

We are operating in the space between peace and war — where conflict is hybrid, psychological, and increasingly cognitive.

Together, we explore:

• How hybrid warfare is reshaping the modern threat landscape
• Why misinformation and identity politics are destabilising trust
• The role of emotional intelligence in national security leadership
• The hidden psychological cost of service, trauma, and guilt
• Why critical thinking may be the most important resilience strategy of our time

Gus reflects candidly on failure, grace under pressure, and the importance of suspending judgment in culturally complex environments — from Middle Eastern deployments to high-stakes intelligence roles.

He shares the philosophy that now anchors his leadership approach — the “Otto Motto”:

Be a good example. Help the people. Make the world a better place.

In a world where narratives are weaponised and belonging can override reasoning, this episode challenges listeners to think differently about security.

Because the war we’re already in isn’t just about territory.

It’s about truth.

It’s about identity.

And it’s about whether we can think clearly enough to protect both.

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustav-otto/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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“A credible award doesn’t celebrate popularity — it recognises provable impact.”

Summary

🎙️ "Beyond the Trophy: How Security Awards Shape a Global Standard" with Professor Martin Gill

What does a security award really represent?

In this powerful episode of the Security Circle Podcast, Yoyo Hamblen sits down with Professor Martin Gill, founder of the Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs), to explore how credible recognition can shape global standards — and why integrity in awards matters more than ever.

With OSPAs now operating in 48 countries and judged by more than 250 independent experts worldwide, Martin shares the research, principles, and ethical framework that sit behind what many now consider the gold standard in security recognition.

But this conversation goes far beyond trophies and ceremonies.

Together, they unpack:

• Why credible award schemes scored so highly in global research on demonstrating value to stakeholders
• The importance of blind judging, independence, and consistent global criteria
• What truly separates a winning nomination from a weak one
• Why “doing your job” is not enough to be considered outstanding
• The role of storytelling — backed by evidence — in professional recognition
• And the uncomfortable truth the industry must face: security is exceptional at what it does, but poor at saying how good it is

Martin reflects on the emotional impact of recognition, the responsibility that comes with defining excellence, and why awards — when done properly — don’t create winners. They reveal them.

The episode also touches on leadership, collaboration across membership organisations, the importance of raising standards globally, and how shining a light on best practice strengthens the entire profession.

This isn’t a conversation about gala dinners.

It’s about professional maturity, measurable excellence, and the power of recognition to elevate an industry that too often operates quietly behind the scenes.

If you work in security — frontline, operational, strategic, or executive — this episode will challenge how you think about credibility, impact, and what it truly means to be outstanding.

And you'll get to learn something we all didn't know about Martin too!! (Shhhh)

Professor Martin Gill LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-gill-b4405b82/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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Episode Summary

In this special episode of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen is joined by three outstanding women in security — Gigi Agassini, Kehkashan Dadwani and Deb Anderson — to explore a subject that sits at the heart of modern risk management: The Risk of Being Human.

Originally presented at GSX, this conversation examines how rapid technological change, constant incident pressure, and performance-driven cultures are quietly pushing humanity to the margins of security decision-making. While organisations invest heavily in resilience, automation, and controls, the discussion challenges whether enough attention is being paid to the human factors that ultimately determine success or failure.

The episode explores the role of trust and psychological safety in security environments, highlighting why people are far more likely to report concerns, mistakes, or early warning signs when they feel supported rather than blamed. The panel discusses how fear-based cultures, hero mentalities, and burnout increase risk — even in highly mature security programs.

A strong focus is placed on human-centric leadership. The guests share practical insights on how leaders can design policies, training, and communications that reflect real human behaviour, motivations, and limitations — rather than idealised compliance models. From simple messaging changes to creating space for dissent and dialogue, the conversation shows how small shifts can create meaningful reductions in risk.

The discussion also addresses the growing influence of technology and AI, warning against over-trusting systems while under-valuing human judgement. The panel stresses that technology should enhance human capability, not replace it — and that bias, ethics, and accountability remain human responsibilities.

At its core, this episode delivers a powerful message:

security doesn’t fail because people are human — it fails when organisations forget that they are.

The Risk of Being Human is a compelling conversation about trust, culture, psychology, and resilience — and why the future of security depends as much on people as it does on systems.

Gigi Agassini

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gigi-agassini/

Deb Anderson

https://www.linkedin.com/in/debandersenpspcissp/

Kehkashan Dadwani

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kdadwani/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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Podcast Summary

In this episode of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen is joined by Dean Armstrong KC, one of the UK’s leading barristers at the intersection of law, technology, and accountability.

Dean brings rare clarity to some of the most complex and consequential issues facing society today — from AI regulation and agentic systems, to crypto and blockchain litigation, to safeguarding, abuse, and institutional responsibility.

The conversation begins with the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, exploring the stark contrast between the European Union’s risk-based AI Act and the UK’s principle-based, lighter-touch regulatory approach. Dean explains why flexibility without certainty creates legal risk for organisations, and why AI is now too pervasive for governments to avoid meaningful intervention.

A central theme of the episode is human responsibility. Dean examines the legal and ethical challenges of assigning accountability when AI systems act autonomously, warning that innovation must never replace human judgement. He discusses the growing likelihood of litigation as AI becomes more capable, more opaque, and more embedded in decision-making across industries.

The discussion then turns to cryptocurrency and blockchain, drawing on Dean’s experience in major international crypto litigation, including work connected to the FTX insolvency. He challenges common misconceptions, explaining why blockchain is often an evidential asset rather than a liability, and why crypto and digital assets play a critical role globally — particularly in regions without stable banking systems. The episode also explores stablecoins, tokenisation, and why the UK risks falling behind in the digital asset economy.

Beyond technology, the conversation carries profound moral weight. Dean speaks candidly about his work representing victims in historic abuse cases and his growing focus on safeguarding in sport, emphasising that safe spaces are not optional — whether in workplaces, public institutions, or youth environments. He highlights how abuse thrives where oversight is weak and accountability is avoided, and why law has a duty to bring uncomfortable truths into the light.

Throughout the episode, Dean returns to a consistent message:

progress without guardrails is not progress at all.

This is a powerful, thoughtful conversation about guardrails, justice, and accountability in a digital age — and why the law must evolve without losing sight of the people it exists to protect.

About Dean

Dean is a top ranked, award-winning King’s Counsel Barrister in the United Kingdom. He has represented clients in numerous high profile cases and is a trusted advisor on a wide range of legal issues. He has deep expertise in criminal and civil corporate responsibility, law, cyber law, Artificial Intelligence, data law including GDPR, blockchain, cryptocurrencies and NFTs. 

His accolades include:

Chambers & Partners No.1 Silk for Cryptoassets 2024, 2025 (current)
Legal 500 Leading Silk for Crypto and Blockchain Assets 2025 Edition (current)
Frequent speaker at international conferences and in the media

Key publications include:

Cyber Security Law and Practice 
Lexis Nexis: first ed. 2017; second ed. 2019
with Dan Hyde and Sam Thomas 

Cyber Litigation: The Legal Principles 
Bloomsbury Professional: 2021
with Fergus McCombie and Ceri Davis

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-armstrong-kc-b5b2769b/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers