What does it take to lead one of America’s most dynamic cities, navigate high-stakes decisions, and stay grounded in the face of constant change?

In this episode of The Security Equation with Dan Donovan, Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley joins host Dan Donovan, Founder and Managing Partner of Stratoscope, to discuss leadership, resilience, and what it means to protect and empower a city built on innovation and risk.

From public service to policy leadership, Mayor Berkley shares the defining moments that shaped her career — the challenges that tested her resolve, and the lessons that continue to guide her approach to leadership and crisis management.

Each conversation on The Security Equation explores what it truly takes to protect people, places, and peace of mind — whether on the world stage, in city hall, or behind the scenes of major events.

Tune in to learn how one of Nevada’s most influential leaders defines strength, service, and stability in an unpredictable world.

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In the premiere episode of The Security Equation, host Dan Donovan sits down with Dylan Ratigan — journalist, former MSNBC host, political activist, and entrepreneur — for a conversation on how leaders maintain clarity amid chaos.

Drawing from experiences reporting on 9/11, navigating Wall Street, running for Congress, and building companies, Dylan shares lessons on risk, composure, and the mental frameworks that define effective decision-making in high-pressure environments.

Together, Dan and Dylan explore how uncertainty parallels the world of security operations — where awareness, adaptability, and resilience determine outcomes.
It’s a masterclass in leading through volatility — for those charged with protecting people, assets, and peace of mind.

-Chapters-

00:00 – Intro & Dylan’s Background

01:00 – Tolerance for Uncertainty

03:00 – Lessons from Event Security & Wall Street

05:00 – Dylan’s Experience with Events & Production

07:15 – Reporting on 9/11 & Life Lessons Learned

10:00 – Activism, Politics, & Leadership Challenges

13:00 – The Role of Media Then vs Now

17:00 – Risk, Security, and Societal Challenges

20:00 – Directing Young Male Energy Constructively

21:45 – Dylan’s “Easy Day” Story & Lessons Learned

23:00 – Closing Thoughts

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