Shop Talk: October 2023

Get ready for a compelling blend of global affairs and lively conversation! We're thrilled to welcome back Dr. Treston Wheat, the mastermind behind the acclaimed 'Geopolitics and Gin' blog. Dr. Wheat, a security expert and our favorite PhD, will guide us through today's most pressing geopolitical issues, offering insights for protectors and leaders alike.  Join us as we unpack complex challenges and potential solutions while raising a glass (or two) with the good Doctor.  Expect a thought-provoking discussion alongside Dr. Wheat's favorite gin concoctions and other libations. Find Geopolitics and Gin here.  - https://tinyurl.com/yu4emjur  Give us your thoughts at [email protected]

The ides of March are here, and, accordingly, the CiCP team is taking time to break down some recent news regarding the threatscape. This time, they deep dive into: Threats against healthcare systems, CA Senate bill 553 (or is it 533!?!) Asymmetric threats posed by digital risks such as AI or Deepfakes Using software aimed at other industries (like advertising) can be utilized in the targeting space Network outages and your PACE plan Foreign Agents operating on US soil Significant events - elections, Olympics and much more... It's another full round of shop talk. Join the conversation at [email protected]    

The CiCP team is privileged to have Ivan Ivanovich, a renowned protector who advocates for a proactive, intelligence-driven approach emphasizing prevention and readiness. From his extensive executive protection experience across diverse regions like the Balkans and Latin America, Ivan offers a unique perspective. He argues that the traditional image of bodyguards with armored vehicles and weapons needs to be matured. Our discussion centers on Ivan's book, "Executive Protection in the 21st Century: A New Vision," exploring the shifting threats faced by executives, the role of technology in modern protection, and the significance of cultural awareness in a globalized context. Tune in as we delve into Ivan's insights on proactive risk mitigation and navigating the dynamic landscape of executive protection.  [email protected] Ivan's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Protection-21st-Century-vision/dp/8419808210  

Metrics are an essential tool for measuring performance, efficiency, and reliability in any organization, big or small. However, getting started with metrics can be daunting. In this episode, the team speaks with Jim McConnell, a seasoned security expert with over 30 years of experience managing security organizations. Jim shares his expertise in defining and using metrics in a security organization. So, grab your pencil and enjoy the conversation! Also, if you're interested in learning more about converged security metrics, be sure to reach out to Jim at [email protected] and mention this podcast for a free PDF copy of top EP metrics from his book, "Converged Security Metrics: A Top 25 Set of Solutions.

Happy MMXXIV. After a much-needed break from the action, the team returns with thoughts on immediate risks, opportunities, and issues affecting the protective risk community. The new year comes out of the gate, looking much like the one we just left. What should you be thinking about as we roll into 2024! [email protected]

As we approach Protector's week, the CiCP team grabs some air time with the editor-in-chief of the IPSB's "Close Protection and Security Journal," Doctor Treston Wheat, and the Close Protection Conference 23 lead, Bryan Flannery. More than a readout, both speak to the power of volunteering, making the industry greater and how the industry has evolved.  Give us your thoughts at [email protected] Keelson Strategic sponsors this episode.

Happy Thanksgiving week -  the CiCP team is poised to engage in discussions that promise to dispel any lingering tryptophan-induced haze. Join us as we delve into recent and upcoming symposiums and conferences, spotlighting the IPSB's Close Protection Conference. Additionally, we address inquiries about individual planning for the forthcoming year, navigating personal rest during the holidays, and underscore the critical role of trust and openness for success in the security industry. All these topics and more await you in this month's ShopTalk!

In light of Mental Health Awareness Month, we converse about it with one of our own - Katherine Luther. She founded the Luther Method, which specializes in personal resilience protocols. She also serves as the Director of Operations for Viplomat Protection.

Fall is here. With the change over from summer comes the continued changing threat environment. Join the team as they break down some issues and emerging risks.  Your CiCP team discusses some recent conferences they have attended (including the recent Mexican Close Protection gathering and the Sam Houston State. Critical Infrastructure Thought Leaders' Conference) breeches at high-profile events, and how using Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles for designing event security plans could be helpful. They also discuss Russia/Ukraine and the unfolding Israeli - Hamas war.   All this and a discussion about the upcoming IPSB Close Protection Conference's keynote speaker, former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. Join the team this December at the CPC - IPSB's Close Protection Conference Join the conversation at [email protected]

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Ed McCormack, progenitor of the modern FBI protection division and former Head of Security for one of America's most high-networth families and one of the oldest consulting firms in the United States. Ed is a pioneer in the field of security and protection, and he has decades of experience protecting some of the most influential people in the world. In this episode, Ed will share insights from his career, including: How he helped to create the modern FBI protection division How to manage security around influential people The latest trends in security Lessons learned from a deep understanding of security from both the public and private sectors Grab your pencils and learn from one of the best in the security industry. Subscribe to CiCP now and rate us on your preferred podcast player.