Inside Iran's Ministry of Intelligence: A Conversation with Steven R. Ward

On this episode of the Ontic Connected Intelligence Podcast, Ryan Schonfeld explores his transition from law enforcement to founding Hivew\Watch, sharing insights into modernizing corporate security operations and integrating cutting-edge technology like AI. His conversation with host Manish Mehta uncovers the challenges of transitioning from public to private sectors and the evolving role of GSOCs in leveraging automation to reduce manual inefficiencies. Schonfeld also sheds light on balancing human expertise with technology to create smarter, scalable solutions that enhance security without compromising safety.You'll learnHow Schonfeld transitioned from a law enforcement career to revolutionizing corporate security operations with innovative, tech-driven approaches at HiveWatchAdvice for navigating the shift from public to private sector roles, including the importance of mentorship, adapting to corporate culture, and effectively translating skills and experiencesHow AI and automation are reshaping GSOCs, merging technology and human oversight to optimize operations and tackle inefficiencies in the security spaceLearn more in Ontic Resources.

On this episode, host Fred Burton interviews Dr. Jeff Moore, a globally recognized hotel threat analyst and creator of the Secure Hotel Threat Portal. Dr. Moore shares insights into global trends in hotel violence, key safety strategies for travelers, and the strategic importance of understanding threat patterns to enhance security measures. From analyzing data on incidents to providing practical advice for corporate security and travelers, Dr. Moore offers a comprehensive exploration of safety in the hotel industry.You'll Learn:The surprising trends and patterns in hotel violence worldwide, including the most affected regions and types of incidentsActionable advice on how to stay safe in hotels, with strategies for choosing rooms, securing doors, and avoiding potential threatsHow the Secure Hotel Threat Portal collects and analyzes thousands of cases to uncover critical insights for creating safer environments in the hotel industrySign up for our newsletter here.

This episode features an engaging conversation with Karna McGarry, a seasoned intelligence and security professional with extensive experience in both government and private sectors. The discussion explores the challenges and nuances of transitioning intelligence practices from government agencies to corporate environments, with a focus on the importance of feedback loops, the intelligence cycle, and actionable analysis for decision-makers. Tune in for practical tips and thought-provoking lessons are shared to help corporate intelligence teams elevate their impact and refine their strategies. You'll Learn: Why incorporating clear feedback loops is vital to aligning intelligence analysis with organizational objectives Transferable lessons from intelligence roles in government, such as prioritizing actionable insights and managing threats effectively Insight into growing global security concerns, such as counterintelligence in enterprises and enhancing online security practices Learn more about our partnership with Red5 Security by contacting our team at [email protected].

This episode George Randle, a seasoned talent executive and co-author of The Talent War, shares his insights on leadership development and building high-performing teams. Drawing on his extensive military and corporate experience, George discusses the critical importance of attributes over technical skills, fostering ownership in teams, and effectively assimilating military veterans into corporate roles. Listen in to explore actionable strategies that empower leaders to cultivate resilient, adaptable teams while navigating the complexities of recruitment and leadership.You'll learn: Why attributes like humility, curiosity, and drive often outweigh technical skills when building resilient and adaptable teamsHow empowering team members with ownership creates a culture of accountability and trust, allowing leaders to focus on strategic impactCommon pitfalls organizations face when hiring veterans and actionable guidance on how to successfully integrate them into corporate rolesLearn more in Ontic Resources.Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review!

The Ontic Summit has grown from a 50-person gathering to hosting over 600 security professionals, and with it, the discussions have evolved exponentially. Join Chuck Randolph, Cindy Marble, and Fred Burton as they reflect on the key takeaways from the 2025 Ontic Summit. Topics include the prioritization of executive protection, the critical need for workplace violence prevention programs, and fostering collaboration across silos in corporate security. Listen in for key takeaways from this year's event.You'll learn:Why executive protection is the backbone of modern corporate security programsThe connection between workplace violence prevention and organizational risk mitigationHow better collaboration between public and private sectors can drive industry-wide progressSave the date and learn more about Ontic Summit 2026 here.Subscribe to our newsletter here.

Fred Burton sits down with Frank Cannon, a seasoned security professional and renowned academic, to explore the importance of fostering a culture of behavioral-based security awareness. Frank shares actionable insights on how to move beyond the "tick-the-box" approach to create a security-first mindset that aligns with both physical and digital safety. Tune in to hear why security isn’t just a task, but a behavior embedded in every aspect of organizational life.You'll learn:How to embed a proactive security culture across physical and digital domainsPractical steps to shift from compliance-focused security to meaningful employee engagementUniversal principles for behavioral-based security in corporate and personal settingsSign up for our monthly newsletter here.

How do organizations transform isolated security measures into comprehensive insider risk programs? Bert Oliveira, Head of Physical Security and Investigations at Citizens Financial Group, shares 30+ years of insights on tackling insider risk and financial crimes in the evolving landscape of corporate security. Discover how partnerships, proactive forensics, and a strong security culture drive resilience and safeguard businesses against internal and external threats.You'll learn:How insider threats have shifted from targeting malicious actors to mitigating negligence and third-party risksThe role of digital forensics in building a secure foundation for identifying insider riskKey leadership advice for fostering collaboration and shared responsibility in security programsLearn more about Ontic’s Incidents, Investigations, and Case Management.

Ever wondered what makes Iran's Ministry of Intelligence (MOIS) so unique? Join Fred Burton as he sits down with retired CIA intelligence officer and author, Steven R. Ward, to unveil the inner workings of one of the world’s most mysterious intelligence agencies. From uncovering cyber operations to discussing the ministry's focus on internal security and its role in geopolitics, this episode offers an in-depth exploration of Ward's new book, Iran's Ministry of Intelligence, A Concise History.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The historical evolution of MOIS and its impact on Iran’s internal and external policiesThe challenges Western intelligence agencies face when countering MOIS operationsThe role of technology and innovation in modern intelligence strategies utilized by MOISSign up for our monthly newsletter here.

Join Chuck Randolph and Allison Macalik, Director of Solutions at Ontic, as they discuss the value of vulnerability in leadership, balancing authenticity with professionalism, and strategies for tackling imposter syndrome in high-stakes fields. Allison shares her experiences, insights, and actionable tips for building trust, resilience, and connections in the workplace. They also dive into the importance of mental health, mentorship, and finding your own voice in corporate environments.You'll Learn:How vulnerability and authenticity can strengthen leadership and team dynamics Practical strategies to recognize and overcome imposter syndromeThe benefits of creating safe spaces for feedback and personal growth in challenging industriesResources Mentioned:Imposter Talks LinkedIn PageImposter Talks Podcast PageSubscribe to our monthly newsletter.

What does it take to lead one of the most influential organizations in global security management? Join us in this episode as Chuck sits down with new ASIS CEO, Bill Tenney. From his origins in naval intelligence to navigating corporate and nonprofit leadership, Bill shares his remarkable career highlights and the guiding principles that have driven his success. Discover his vision for ASIS, the importance of mission-driven teamwork, and how AI and collaboration are shaping the future of security. You'll learn:How mission and continuous learning drive effective leadership in security managementBill's plans for ASIS and its global impact on advancing the security professionInsights into utilizing collaboration and technology (AI, data, and more) to enhance organizational resilienceSign up for our monthly newsletter.