The Ontic Connected Intelligence Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Shields Down: Addressing Mental Health in the Security Industry May 01, 2024

Show notes

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, on this episode, we take a deep and empathetic dive into the often-overlooked aspect of mental health within the security industry. Dr. Marisa Randazzo, Ph.D., sits down with Arian Avila from Capital One and Bryan Parent from LinkedIn, two distinguished figures who bring a wealth of experience, insight, and compassion to the table. Throughout the episode, they will share their personal journeys, discuss the evolving challenges faced by security professionals, and explore the psychological impacts of working in such a critical yet stressful sector.

Whether you're a security professional, a leader in the industry, or simply an individual passionate about mental health advocacy, this episode promises to enlighten, educate, and inspire. We’re breaking the silence on mental health in the security industry, advocating for change, and showing how resilience, understanding, and support can make all the difference. Don't miss this powerful conversation—tune in to gain perspective and learn how we can collectively support the mental well-being of those who safeguard our communities.

Tune in to hear as they share:

How the landscape of the security industry has shifted in recent years and the new pressures this has introduced.
Strategies for increasing awareness about the mental health challenges within the industry and how to better support our front-line defenders by proactively addressing post-incident mental health challenges.
Identifying the early signs of incident-related trauma and the best practices in response as well as concrete steps leaders can take to nurture a supportive environment for those dealing with trauma.

For more information, visit ontic.co.

Behind the Scenes with an Executive Protection Pioneer: Bob Oatman's Journey Apr 24, 2024

Show notes

Fred Burton had the honor of sitting down with Bob Oatman, a well-respected figure in the executive protection industry. Oatman, the president of RL Oatman & Associates, shares his remarkable journey to becoming a major in the criminal investigation division and ultimately retiring early to start an illustrious career in executive protection. He reflects on his decision to leave the police department after two decades and his journey into the private sector of protection.

From running dignitary and executive protection teams in the police department to pioneering strategies in the private sector, Bob shares insights on the changes he's witnessed and offers foresight on the future of protection. He also opens up about his role as an author—or more accurately, the creative force behind four influential books on executive protection. This episode highlights the blend of adaptability, expertise, and vision required to excel in this demanding field.

Tune in to his conversation with Fred Burton to hear:

The transformative journey from law enforcement to the private sector of executive protection, detailing the challenges and opportunities encountered during this transition.
The evolution and future of executive protection, including strategic innovations and the impact of technological advancements in the field.
Bob's contribution to the domain through authorship, focusing on how his real-world experiences and insights have been distilled into four influential books on executive protection.

The Evolution of Risk Intelligence into Corporate Strategy Apr 17, 2024

Show notes

On this episode, we welcome Lou Silvestris from American Family Insurance, a seasoned expert who leads the Risk Intelligence and Investigations Team in the Protective Services Division. Lou brings a wealth of experience, having proactively managed and mitigated widespread global risks and threats to the organization. His impressive background spans several multinational companies, and his experience has been pivotal in various organizations’ strategic decision-making processes. Tune in as Lou shares anecdotes from his distinguished career, discusses the evolution of risk intelligence, and the impact of technology on modern investigative practices.

Lou candidly shares his transition from federal agencies, such as the CIA and Department of Homeland Security, to the private sector. He dives into the unique challenges he faced and the lessons learned along the way. For those contemplating a similar shift, Lou offers practical advice, drawing on his deep understanding of intelligence work. He also discusses with Chuck his perspectives on current challenges within the field, actionable tips for establishing or revitalizing security programs, and a forecast for the future of intelligence and investigations.

Tune in to this episode to hear:

Lou's extensive background in global risk management from both federal agencies and the private sector
Actionable strategies for individuals transitioning from government intelligence roles to corporate security positions
Current challenges in the field of intelligence and investigations and how technology helps manage and mitigate these risks

The CCI Debrief — An Unfiltered Conversation on Today’s Security Landscape Apr 10, 2024

Show notes

Hosts Fred Burton, Chuck Randolph, and Dr. Marisa Randazzo, Ph.D. unpack recent discussions they've had on the Protective Intelligence Podcast and what they are seeing in the world of security. Enjoy an unfiltered conversation of their observations and invaluable insights from the past few weeks.

Key topics of this discussion include:

Women's History Month: They discuss the all-female podcast guests hosted last month, celebrating the achievements and contributions of Dr. Charity Dean, Cheryl Dick, Wendy Bashnan, and Anna Lepingwell in the security space.
The Biotech Frontier: Listen in as the hosts discuss the world of biosecurity, highlighting parts of the recent episode with Dr. Charity Dean to understand its critical role in today's global landscape.
Dissect Global Security Strategy: Hear insights from Anna Lepingwell's conversation on her extensive experience and knowledge of navigating global security challenges.
Havana Syndrome: A recent 60 Minutes report suggested possible sonic or directed energy weapon attacks first reported by US Embassy staff in Cuba in 2016. The debrief explores this dilemma through the lens of international diplomacy and national security and shares the next steps in investigating Havana Syndrome.
Sonic Wave Attacks: On the same note, the hosts dive into the recent attacks on American diplomats. They discuss the potential implications for US-Russia relations.

Stay tuned for the next CCI debrief, and contact us at podcast@ontic.co if there are any questions or topics you would like the team to address.

Building Blocks for a Strategic Partnership Between Security and the C-Suite Apr 03, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Women Who Protect series, Marisa is joined by Wendy Bashnan, the Director of Security and Fire Protection at Scout Motors, Inc., and a returning guest on the Protective Intelligence Podcast, to discuss the foundational elements of a robust security program. This time, Wendy joins us on an episode of Women Who Protect to share her journey from government service to her current role as she explains the vital role of communication skills and adaptability in the security realm. Wendy and Marisa also dive into the paradigm shift within security, moving from performance metrics to focusing on effectiveness and impact.

With over thirty years of experience in risk management, Wendy offers her knowledge on developing a security-conscious culture that fosters strategic alliances and aligns with the organization's primary objectives. With a distinguished background in law enforcement, investigations, and the development of intelligence-driven security strategies on a global scale, Wendy explains the intricate balance between safeguarding assets and supporting corporate growth.

Tune in to this episode to hear:

The difference in risk tolerance and risk appetite changing from public sector to private sector (and to startups)
Tactics for enhancing security budgets by garnering cross-functional support across the business
Critical steps for embedding security as a cornerstone of the organizational structure by exhibiting their strategic significance
Advice for women and girls interested in careers in security and protection.

Take a look at Wendy's previous episode here.

Pioneering Biosecurity in the Age of Biotech with CEO and Founder of PHC Global Mar 27, 2024

Show notes

CEO and Founder of PHC Global, Dr. Charity Dean, is a distinguished physician, former government official, and a trailblazer in the field of biosecurity intelligence. Having built her career around her passion for fighting biological threats, Dr. Dean takes us through her journey, shedding light on the challenges and achievements that have defined her career. As the CEO and Founder of PHC Global, she discusses her experiences navigating the complex landscapes of public health emergencies and the inspiration behind her leap into the startup world to address critical gaps in biosecurity intelligence.

Dr. Dean and host, Chuck Randolph, do a deep dive on the intersection of leadership, technology, and strategy in the fight against biothreats. She explains the need for shared situational awareness to manage risks more effectively while evaluating the current capacities and future trajectory of the field. Through her insights, we get a glimpse at the significant decisions and cutting-edge innovations that are shaping our resilience against biological risks. Tune in as Dr. Dean enlightens us not only about the precautions we should take but also the potential for groundbreaking solutions in safeguarding global health.

Key topics discussed in this episode include:

The evolution and significance of biosecurity in enterprise risk and the importance of strengthening shared situational awareness.
Insights on the integration of AI and machine learning in biosecurity, and the balancing act between biotech advancements and their inherent risks.
The guiding principles of courage and leadership during crises, emphasizing the importance of decisiveness and collaborative problem-solving in uncertain times.

Connect with Dr. Charity Dean on LinkedIn.

Mastering Global Security and Risk Management: Key Strategies from Exlog’s VP of Global Operations Mar 20, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Women Who Protect, host Dr. Marisa Randazzo, Ph.D., sits down with Anna Lepingwell, the Vice President for Global Operations at Exlog Global. Based in London and part of the robust European contingent of the company, Anna brings her extensive expertise to the fore, discussing the intricate world of risk management security practices.

Anna shares her journey from university to the security sector, detailing a career securing organizations against threats. Anna highlights day-to-day responsibilities and insights on crisis response, emphasizing preparedness and technology-human balance. Anna empowers women in security - and anyone seeking a career in security - with mentorship advice and industry foresight, offering practical wisdom for listeners seeking global security insights.

Whether you're an aspiring security professional, a seasoned analyst, or simply a listener eager to understand the complexities behind global security strategies, this episode promises a mix of practical wisdom, industry foresight, and actionable advice. Listen to this episode to learn from the expertise of Anna Lepingwell as she navigates the dynamics of global operations.

Tune in to this episode to hear Lepingwell discuss:

Geopolitical Dynamics and Security: Anna discusses how understanding global political movements is crucial for predicting and mitigating risks in the security sector.
Technology in Risk Management: The conversation explores the dual-edged sword of technology in security efforts, emphasizing the need for a synthesis between technological tools and the human element.
Mentorship and Professional Growth: Insights into the importance of mentorship, professional networking, and continuous learning for individuals seeking to carve out a successful career in security and risk management.

Anna is responsible for providing worldwide capabilities around organizational resilience, protective intelligence, and crisis management to clients and partners. Anna leads a team of risk advisors and other specialists that provide around-the-clock global threat and incident awareness, critical advice, and rapid response to people and organizations as part of dedicated global risk programs. In addition to planning and managing high-threat security or natural disaster evacuations, Anna has extensive experience in assessing risk and implementing appropriate mitigation measures.

Prior to joining the Exlog, Anna was the Director of Crisis Management for WorldAware. She speaks German and French and has a BA in International Studies and an MA in International Policy Studies with a Terrorism Studies Specialization from the Monterey Institute for International Studies.

Connect with Anna on LinkedIn.

From Store Associate to Security Director: How Cheryl Dick Used Her Insider Knowledge to Create Chick-fil-A's First GSOC Mar 13, 2024

Show notes

Cheryl Dick, Senior Director of Enterprise Protection and Travel at Chick-fil-A, began her remarkable career at the age of 16 and has since spearheaded the development of Chick-fil-A's first dedicated security function. With an impressive scope that spans from campus operations and corporate travel, Cheryl is on the frontline of protecting people, assets, and enabling the company's dynamic future through expertly crafted security strategies.

Throughout the conversation, Cheryl shares her experiences of navigating the evolving threat landscape and the criticality of de-escalation training among team members. She also dives into the use of technology, such as creating their first-ever Global Security Operations Center (GSOC), to bolster Chick-fil-A's efficiency and readiness to address potential threats. Her proactive approach to anticipating future threats and conveying the significance of security to stakeholders offers inspiration to both new and seasoned security professionals.

Key topics of Cheryl’s discussion with host Dr. Randazzo include:

The establishment and growth of Chick-fil-A's security functions to meet the demands of a changing world.
The adoption of advanced technologies and training to stay ahead of threats and maintain proactive defense mechanisms.
Practical advice for aspiring security professionals on the importance of continuous learning and communicating the intrinsic value of security.

The CCI Debrief — An Unfiltered Conversation on Today’s Security Landscape Feb 28, 2024

Show notes

This inaugural episode launches a new development in Ontic’s podcast — The Center for Connected Intelligence (CCI) Debrief. Hosts Fred Burton, Chuck Randolph, and Dr. Marisa Randazzo unpack what they are hearing and seeing in the word of security. Enjoy an unfiltered conversation of their observations and invaluable insights from the past few weeks.

Key topics of this discussion include:

Risk Fatigue from the Global Permacrisis — As the global permacrisis looms overhead, Burton shares the importance of focusing on your specific threat landscape and avoiding the harmful effects of risk fatigue. Randazzo adds how easy it is to miss signals or dismiss things that aren’t so immediate and how we need to support those on the front lines of the crisis.
Threat of Disinformation and Misinformation — With the upcoming election cycle later in the year the threat of being misinformed through false headlines is imminent. Randolph shares insights from his recent discussion with Suzanne Kelly at the Cipher Brief on retraining our brains to dive deeper into what we read and always consider the source.
Domestic Threat of Election Violence — Randazzo shares insights from her recent article on strategies to prepare organizations for presidential election disruption and Burton shares why evaluating the entire threat continuum is critical to identify individuals who may pose harm to a high profile figure or organization. Lately, this has resulted in an uptick in swatting incidents, and his conversation with Torchstone’s Scott Stewart dives more into this topic.
Reevaluate Business Continuity Practices — The hosts stress the importance of thinking through business continuity, what practices are in place, and if they are updated for the current threat landscape. They also share how informing employees of the security measures they are taking goes a long way in creating a culture of trust.
The Impact of CA Senate Bill 553 — The law requiring most California employers (and employers who have a presence in California) to take steps to prevent and respond to workplace violence will go into effect July 1, 2024. Randazzo shares how important tracking and quickly accessing relevant data is as this order takes effect. For more information on this topic, check out Ontic’s recent webinar: CA SB 553: What You Need to Know and How to Comply. She also discusses why companies must address the aftermath of incidents and the emotional strain on those impacted in light of her recent discussion with Wendy Bailey, Manager of Capital One’s Threat Management Team.

Stay tuned for the next CCI debrief and contact us at podcast@ontic.co if there are any questions or topics you would like the team to address.

The Lagging Effects of the Red Sea Attacks on Multinational Corporations Feb 21, 2024

Show notes

Ross Hill, Founder of Insight Forward, returns to the podcast to discuss one of the more prominent crises in our threat landscape today: the attacks in the Red Sea. This conversation dives deeper into his previous discussion with host Chuck Randolph on What Today’s Permacrisis Means for Corporate Security Teams. The episode explores the implications of these attacks on business operations.

Key takeaways from their discussion include:

How the Houthi rebels’ attack on cargo ships disrupts critical trade routes and raises concerns about regional stability and economic impact.
The impact on economies and corporations in the regions where the attacks are taking place (and why multinational organizations are caught in the middle)
Examples of second and third-order effects of the attacks on the economy and what companies should be looking for in the months ahead.

Ross Hill founded Insight Forward to help companies understand how global dynamics directly affect their business. He applies his background leading intelligence analysis for prominent risk management organizations such as AT-RISK International and Pinkerton. He has acquired an in-depth knowledge of core processes, program design, and management, fulfilling senior management positions in global security and risk consultancies, and gaining exposure to renowned multinationals and driving their intelligence needs. He began his career as a Forensic DNA Analyst and Intelligence Analyst for the Metropolitan Police.

Check out Insight Forward’s latest report: Top 10 Geopolitical Risks for Businesses in 2024 and the latest geopolitical news by subscribing to Pestle & Mortar