Thrive Unafraid

Ever wonder the level of confidence someone must have to push through the fear associated with landing a combat jet on an aircraft carrier, at night, in the middle of the ocean?  In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Loree Draude—former naval aviator, Silicon Valley leader, best-selling author, and captivating performer. From making history in combat squadrons to navigating the highs and lows of the tech world, Loree's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and finding joy in life's challenges. Loree's episode is packed with her insights on leadership, overcoming setbacks, and embracing a life filled with passion and purpose.  Here's a glimpse of the insight she brings:How to identify the values that are most important to you personallyWhy gratitude is important for self awarenessHow to rebuild your mental freewayHow to be present and understand itTwo quick ways to minimize the saboteurs in our headsWhy you should practice saying the word ‘no’Why victims are not broken Connect with Loree:Websites: www.loreedraude.com / www.encaustech.comIG: @loreedraudeLoree’s Books:Soar Into Joy: A Combat Pilot's Wisdom on Falling in Love with Your LifeShe's Just Another Navy Pilot: An Aviator's Sea JournalConnect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.    Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

Safety oriented behaviors are not a destination, it’s a journey.  In this episode Seb Lavoie, a security expert, joins us on a situational awareness journey with him that began when he was a young boy trying to protect his mother.Seb Lavoie's episode is packed with real life examples, common pitfalls, and mindset approaches to your personal safety approach. Here's a glimpse of the insight he brings:Limitations of self defense trainingHow to invest in your safety without over investing in the processWhat data you should research prior to travelingHow to manage emotions and respond optimally to threatsSituational Awareness tips for beginners and those on the next levelWhy having a safety mindset when away from your home doesn't remove the fun Click to download Doug’s FREE 36-page Travel Safety GuideScroll ⬇️ to listen to Seb speak about Domestic Violence in a two part guest appearance Seb combines his over two decades of experience in law enforcement and the military, with his 40+ years of martial arts experience to coach others about situational awareness.  Seb is dedicated to empowering women and has been on this journey since he was 9 years old protecting his mother.  Seb is currently working on a masters degree in international security and is always sharpening his situational awareness sword. Connect with Seb:Website: www.ravenstrategik.comIG: @slavccmdrSeb's Domestic Violence Podcast Pt 1Seb's Domestic Violence Podcast Pt 2Connect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.    Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

Navigating the landscape of personal safety requires more than just intuition—it demands practical knowledge and proactive measures. In this episode, Deni Grow, a distinguished security professional, joins us to unravel the intricacies of staying safe in an unpredictable world. Deni shares invaluable insights and practical tips on enhancing your personal safety, whether you're at home, traveling, or simply going about your daily routine.Scroll to download Deni’s FREE 44-page Step-By-Step Guide for Travel Security Deni Grow's episode is a treasure trove of actionable advice, covering topics from situational awareness to travel safety. Here's a glimpse of the value she brings:Understanding the illusion of safetyPractical safety measures for everyday lifeThe Psychology of Security - why you shouldn’t delay investing in security measures Creating a secure lifestyleUnderstanding the Fluid Nature of Security RisksCultivating situational awareness to minimize risksDebunking self-defense mythsThe barn door theoryDon't miss the chance to gain valuable insights into personal safety. Share Deni Grow's expertise with a friend or colleagues and contribute to creating a community that thrives confidently in the face of uncertainties.With over two decades of experience as an International Protective and Intelligence Specialist, Deni founded Athena Worldwide & Athena Academy in 2002, dedicated to empowering female security professionals. Inspired by the Greek goddess Athena, their focus is on soft skills, protective intelligence, covert protective details, and conflict management. Additionally, her company Nannyguards combines child care with protective services. She is committed to delivering top-notch security solutions and training programs globally.Connect with Deni:Link to Nannyguards:  https://www.nannyguards.com/ Website: https://www.lemareschal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denida-grow/Connect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.    Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

Let's equip children of all ages to effectively counter and minimize the ever-changing threats posed by predators. In this episode, Kelly and Doug engage in a conversation with CJ Scarlet, an expert in danger awareness dedicated to assisting parents globally in safeguarding their children. Join us as we gain insights from the Badass Grandma on the primary confidence builder for children and discover the tools available to aid your children in establishing and maintaining boundaries. Learn the factors that make certain children more vulnerable to targeting, stay updated on the latest trends employed by predators, and explore additional methods to safeguard your most precious family members.In under 1 information-packed hour, you’ll learn: How to ask your kids daily and monthly questions that build confidence.How to safely introduce social media to your kids.How to use the “Trust Circle” exercise to identify threats.How a child could be being groomed and STILL living at home.How to use gratitude and kindness to heal from the inside out.Why you should NEVER let your kids take electronics into their bedroom.Why you should get a monitoring app for your kids devices.What is sextoration and how predators leverage it.What are the three “superpowers" your kids should have?CJ Scarlet, also known as the Badass Grandma, is a danger expert and author dedicated to empowering parents in protecting their children. A survivor of childhood abuse and teen sexual assault, CJ reclaimed her power, becoming an advocate for victims. With over 30 years of experience as a victim advocate, she served as the Director of Victims Issues for the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office and ran a child advocacy center. Beyond advocacy, CJ's diverse background includes roles as a former roller-skating carhop, forest firefighter, and U.S. Marine photojournalist. Recognized among the "Happy 100" people on the planet, her inspiring triumph over adversity is featured in bestselling books.Connect with CJ:Link to Bark:  http://bit.ly/CJScarlet_BarkDiscount code: “BADASSGRANDMA”Website: https://cjcarlet.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/cjscarletbadassgrandmaInstagram: https://instagram.com/cj.scarletYouTube: https://youtube.com/c/cjscarletLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/cjscarletConnect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.    Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

Let’s delve into the dark and often misunderstood world of stalking.  Rachael Frost, an expert in threat assessment and safety planning, joins Kelly and Doug to shed light on this dark and often misunderstood world. Prepare to be empowered with insights that transform your understanding of safety, highlight the signs and dangers, and help protect you or someone you care about.In under 1 hour, you’ll learn:Insights on the psychology of stalkers and their patterns of behavior.The different manifestations of stalking that can take place.Understanding the different types of stalkers and their motivations.The role of technology in stalking, including cyberstalking and online harassment.Self-prioritization in the context of online dating safety.How to document incidents and collect evidentiary support.The nuances of stalking cases, including the challenge of identifying subtle signs.Safety planning advice and the importance of being prepared for various scenarios.The increased danger in cases of intimate partner stalking due to the intimacy effect.The power of seeking support from victim advocacy centers and understanding available resources.Rachael Frost is a respected authority in threat assessment and safety planning, bringing her extensive knowledge to help individuals navigate the complex world of stalking and domestic violence. With a background in law enforcement and a deep understanding of criminal psychology, she sheds light on the hidden threat of stalking and the crucial steps to protect yourself or someone you care about. Rachael's expertise and dedication to enhancing public awareness and safety make her a valuable resource in the realm of stalking prevention and support.Connect with Rachael:Website: https://frosticed.com/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/frost.iced/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/violenceresponseexperts/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-frost-701741196/Connect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.     Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

Do you or someone you know ever dabbled in the world of online dating, hoping to find love or companionship? In a digital age where connection seems just a swipe away, the risks associated with online dating have increased significantly. This episode dives deep into the world of online dating, scams, and how you can safeguard yourself or your loved ones from heartbreak and financial loss.Kelly and Doug welcome Jane Mason, a former FBI Special Agent who brings her extensive knowledge of criminal psychology and fraud investigations into the realm of online dating. They uncover the truth about common romance scams, warning signs to look out for, and share essential tips to protect yourself and those close to you. While exploring the world of online dating, the conversation takes a profound turn, covering critical topics such as personal information safety, drink spiking, and the power of self-prioritization. Jane's insights provide invaluable guidance for anyone entering the online dating landscape.You’ll learn:How to safeguard your personal information when venturing into the world of online dating.How to code words for discreetly asking for help during in-person meetings.Recognizing the telltale signs of drink spiking and the immediate actions to take for your safety.The art of projecting a strong, confident presence to reduce the likelihood of becoming a target.The psychology behind online scams and catfishing.Conducting comprehensive research before engaging with potential dates.The potential future of dating apps and how regulation may affect their operation.The interplay of behavior in the dating world and how to focus on these behaviors to ensure safety.Common online dating scams and red flags to watch out for.Jane Mason is a former FBI Special Agent with a wealth of experience in criminal psychology and fraud investigations. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to unraveling complex cases and understanding the motivations behind criminals' actions. Her upcoming "Dating Safety Bootcamp" showcases her commitment to helping individuals navigate the world of online dating safely and confidently. Connect with Jane:Website: https://www.janexfbi.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/janexfbi/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janexfbiLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janexfbi/Connect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.     Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

How do we keep up in a world in which the speed we receive information far surpasses the rate at which we can process and integrate it into our daily lives? Kelly and Doug tackle this question head on in this week’s episode of Thrive Unafraid with Bryan Niederhelm; a Threat Assessment expert who has worked with foreign government agencies and the U.S. Secret Service. Together, the three of them discuss tools you can use to challenge your own beliefs and biases amidst the constant influx of information in society to achieve wisdom. They also dive deep into how leaning into uncertainty, and using natural instincts, like intuition, can help you navigate any situation you encounter.Other topics we covered:What is intuition and actionable ways to tap into it to strengthen your self-defense, decision-making, and conflict resolution skillsHow you can prevent the thinking that precedes the instinct that violent ideation should be your first measure of safetyHow to get started on “the path” to wisdom in personal safetyHow to challenge your personal expertise and biases so you don’t become a victim of yourselfThe role that social media and technology, like AI, plays in our current society of information overload The importance of leaning into the discomfort of uncertainty as a self-defense tool to reduce anxietyWhat is a Low Information Diet and why you need oneBryan Niederhelm directs threat assessment practitioners who are responsible for the assessment and management of thousands of cases of inappropriate pursuit, threats, and harassment, including situations involving mentally ill stalkers, disgruntled current and former employees, stalkers who pursue their victims at the workplace, interpersonal stalking, and domestic violence.  He provides consultation on safety and privacy for at-risk individuals, and he has managed some of the Nation’s most sensitive investigations for public figures. Bryan also directs a staff of intelligence analysts on behalf of at-risk individuals and public figures traveling internationally. He oversees GDBA’s Advanced Threat Assessment Academy and MOSAIC Threat Assessment Systems. He has worked with the U.S. Secret Service and foreign government agencies during the planning and implementation of security operations involving public figures, U.S. Presidents, and foreign heads of state. Bryan served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a member of the elite Embassy Security Battalion, responsible for the safety of U.S. diplomats in Kyrgyzstan (Ker-gy-stan) and Israel.Connect with Bryan:Medium Articles: https://medium.com/@niederhelmLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanniederhelm/Connect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.    Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

Despite the many advancements that technology has provided, parenting in a digital driven world leaves our kids vulnerable to the risks and dangers that come along with it. In this episode, Kelly and Doug speak with Alana and Dean Stott, a multi-hyphenate power couple committed to making the world a better place. Teaching children’s cyber-safety is one of the many causes near and dear to their hearts, and one they’ve become experts in since growing their own family. Together they discuss why shielding your kids from the world isn’t the best way to keep them safe, how building a relationship with your child is more impactful than any safety app you can find online, and so much more. Other topics we discussed:The importance of putting your relationship with your kids firstEncouraging your kids to make mistakes and make their own decisionsThe consequences of not educating your kidsWhy apps aren’t as powerful as wordsHow getting curious with your kids can lead to impactful conversatios. How safety and security leads to confidence Understanding your child's fight or flight typeAlana Stott is an author, producer, anti-human trafficking consultant, publisher, security specialist, philanthropist and entrepreneur. Her husband Dean Stott is a former British Special Forces operator, two-time world record breaking cyclist, global security expert, adventurer, philanthropist, author, and international speaker. Connect with Alana and Dean:Website: https://alanastott.com & https://www.deanstott.comTwitter: @alanastott & @DeanStottSBSIG:  @alanastott & @deanstottLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alana-stott-mbe-194493aa/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-stott-24725880/Connect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.    Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

Depictions of self-defense and violence in TV and film naturally give us a sense of safety and reassurance that the bad guy will lose and that you should always take a criminal head on. Unfortunately, the theatrics of it all have given men (and women) a false look at self-defense. In this week’s episode, Kelly and Doug speak with martial arts and self-defense expert, Wim Demeere. Together they discuss the complexities behind self-defense including: taking ownership over your actions, the importance of leaving your ego at the door, and de-escalating tense situations before violence occurs. For more of Wim’s instructional self-defense content, check out his Patreon site, updated monthly. There are over a thousand posts and hundreds of videos as he’s been doing this for over five years now. There is something at a price point for everybody and you can try it for free for a week.Other topics we discussed:Negative effects of romanticism of violence in TV and filmHow to not let your ego affect your decisions in conflictUnderstanding the distinctions between social and criminal violenceDefining your mission before conflict ever arisesDeescalation tactics for when a conflict occurs The importance of self-awareness and ownership in conflictHow to face threats from other individuals (Peyton Quinn’s Rules)Why face-saving exit in conflict isn’t the safest optionThe Highway of ViolenceWim Demeere has almost 40 years of training in several martial arts and self-defense systems: Kung Fu, Tai Chi Chuan, Sanshou, muay Thai, MMA, etc. He has been a full-time personal trainer since 1994, has occasionally worked as a bouncer, and in his words, he had a non-eventful military service. Wim has been a national champion Quinda multiple times, and won a bronze medal at 1993 Wushu World Championships Sanshou (-90Kg). Wim has shared his knowledge with thousands of people as the author of numerous instructional books, self-defense videos, and his podcast  titled, Wim Demeere’s Podcast. He is the owner and writer of one of the oldest martial arts and self-defense blogs, Wimsblog.com.Connect with Wim:Website: https://wimsblog.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ptccm IG:  @wimdemeere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WimDemeerePage Check out the blog post referenced in this video: https://wimsblog.com/2013/04/self-defense-tips-for-men/ Connect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.    Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!

Trying to find a woman who has not found themselves in a dangerous or unwarranted encounter is harder than finding someone who has. That is one of the many reasons this episode with Nicole Snell is so crucial. Nicole discusses what it means to hone your intuition and assess or de-escalate potential threats in any situation. Nicole also shares her thoughts around the importance of situational awareness, establishing boundaries, and the belief that all women and girls should live without limits despite perceived danger. Other topics we discussed:Fear as a tool, not an enemyThe benefits of developing a toolkit versus just ‘safety tips’ for personal safetyAssessing Nicole’s personal self-defense encounters and how she chose to reactHow to establish boundaries when approached or caught off-guard in publicCriticism that women face in the aftermath of negative situationsOutdoor defense and safetyFeeling empowered to live without limitationsNicole Snell is an award winning international speaker, trainer, and self-defense expert specializing in sexual assault prevention education, gender-based violence prevention, and boundaries. Despite her successful 12-year career in TV, she always felt a pull to give back to women. Through connections she developed partnering with a women’s self-defense group she worked with in college, Nicole was introduced to Girls Fight Back. She is now the CEO of Girls Fight Back, Founder of Outdoor Defense, and Lead Instructor with both IMPACT Personal Safety and IMPACT Global. Connect with Nicole:Website: Nicolesnell.comGirls Fight Back: Girlsfightback.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/nicolesnelloutdoordefenseIG: @adventuresofnik & @girlsfightback Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/girlsfightbackTwitter: @girlsfightback Check out the IG posts mentioned in this episode:https://www.instagram.com/p/CqblSQtLhl4/https://www.instagram.com/p/CurXz-OAxhM/Nicole’s Virtual Class with Backcountry Women: https://backcountrywomen.com/event-5210807August 30th, 2023$65 for members, $75 for non-membersNote: The live event will be recorded and everyone who registers will have one week to watch the recording.Connect with Doug and Kelly: Follow The Diamond Arrow Group on Instagram and Facebook, and Kelly Sayre on LinkedIn and Twitter.You can find Doug at @texasspydad, or on LinkedIn and Twitter.Check Kelly’s new book Sharp Women that guides you through embracing your best self-defense weapon - your intuition.    Please click ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ on your favorite podcast platform, and we’d love to hear what you think is the best piece of advice you’ve heard on the podcast to-date in a Review on your podcast platform!