In this episode team CiCP digs into the practical lessons from recent politically-motivated attacks and what they mean for protectors, event planners, and organizations. Chuck and Chris cover defense-in-depth at open-air events, the limits of crowd control, and why protective intelligence and thorough advance work (sector sketches, Google Earth, rehearsals) are now mission-critical. Chuck and Chris also talk communications — how to build a business case for security spend — and the real operational tradeoffs teams face when budgets are tight. Join CiCP as they analyze the risks, challenges, and strategies that security professionals must navigate to stay ahead in an increasingly volatile world. Connect with the team at protectiontalk@outlook.com
In this episode, we talk with Robin Stearns, CEO and Founder of Pacific Resilience Group, to explore what resilience means in today’s environment of heightened executive risk. Robin shares insights from her career in government, corporate intelligence, and threat management, offering a candid look at how cultural narratives, social resentment, and shifting perceptions are reshaping the protective mission. From the “era of resentment” to the importance of foresight and context, Robin explains how leaders and practitioners alike can adapt to new challenges while maintaining strength and composure. Whether you’re a protector in the field or a security leader navigating executive risk, this conversation delivers practical takeaways and a strategic perspective. Don’t forget to subscribe to episodes of Conversations in Close Protection.
The CiCP crew is back on home turf. In this episode, Chuck and Chris acknowledge Father’s Day, family, and the evolving responsibilities of leadership—in life and in the field. The team unpack the rising risk environment for executives and high-net-worth individuals, the convergence of digital and physical threats, and the uncomfortable but necessary truths facing modern security leaders. With recent headlines highlighting targeted violence and online radicalization, the team discusses how protectors and intelligence professionals must adapt to an increasingly asymmetric environment. This isn’t just a shop talk—it’s a recalibration. What does it mean to lead in today’s hybrid threat world? And how do we keep our principles sharp when the lines between online vitriol and real-world violence continue to blur?
In "Seguridad Cuantificada," your CiCP team dives deep with Kevin Palacios, an intellectual architect transforming executive protection from a gut-feeling profession to a data-driven strategic discipline. With a doctorate-level approach and 25 years of global experience, Palacios deconstructs traditional security paradigms, introducing a revolutionary framework that quantifies protection's business value. Learn how: Executive protection becomes a business enabler, not just a cost center Data and predictive analytics can transform risk management Professionals can translate protection strategies into measurable ROI Technology and human expertise can create a new protection ecosystem Prepare to have your understanding of protection fundamentally challenged. Please give us your feedback at protectiontalk@outlook.com
Conversations in Close Protection – Shop Talk January 2025, the team breaks down the critical security developments shaping the corporate and global landscape. We examine the tragic UnitedHealthcare incident and its implications for executive protection, the evolving role of security leadership in corporate governance, and the increasing complexity of cybersecurity threats in 2025. There is also discussions on the impact of SEC disclosure requirements on executive security, the shifting landscape of Directors & Officers (D&O) insurance, and key insights from the WEF Global Risks Report 2025, including geopolitical instability, disinformation, and environmental challenges. Join CiCP as they analyze the risks, challenges, and strategies that security professionals must navigate to stay ahead in an increasingly volatile world. Email us at protectiontalk@outlook.com UnitedHealth Lost $63 Billion in Value Amid CEO Security Concerns Should the SEC Revisit Executive Security Perquisite Disclosure? What to Expect from Cybersecurity Threats in 2025 Should the SEC Revisit Executive Security Perquisite Disclosure? New Year, New D&O Risks Summary of Key Risks
The Conversations in Close Protection team discusses insights from Tristan Flannery of Presage Global, focusing on their upcoming Industry Training Survey. The conversation highlights the need for protectors to adapt to modern threats through education, technology, and soft skills. It addresses growth opportunities in the industry, including increased salary expectations and the demand for specialized training among mid-career professionals. Tune in to gain fresh perspectives on how the executive protection field is transforming and what it means for those dedicated to safeguarding lives and assets. If you have thoughts on the discussion, contact us at protectiontalk@outlook.com! Want to hear more from Tristan - check out his conversation on risk over at the Connected Intelligence podcast - https://shorturl.at/0Ppn2
Fall is here, but the risks are not cooling down. The team unpacks recent events, upcoming events, and highlights from recent conferences and travels. By all measures, fall is going to be something. Stay up on the talk and join the conversation at protectiontalk@outlook.com
As the busy season kicks off, the team pauses to reflect on two significant industry events they recently attended. They dive into their experiences at the annual Threat Management Conference (TMC) hosted by the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) and CTG's 8th Annual Physical Cyber Convergence Forum in Phoenix. Both gatherings offered invaluable networking opportunities, thought-provoking discussions, and insightful conversations, proving worth the investment. Also discussed is Presage Global's recent LinkedIn EP Industry Training Survey. Join the discussion and let us know if you attended - protectiontalk@outlook.com
The CiCP team takes time out of their summer travels to discuss recent events, including the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, recent global network issues, and revelations about North Korean agents working inside well-known cybersecurity companies. Don't forget to rate us and send us your comments to protectiontalk@outlook.com
The team breaks tradition in this month's Shop Talk and welcomes an exceptional visitor. Former CiCP guest, bestselling author, and former US State Department Special Agent Fred Burton, who also served as the Chief of Counterterrorism and Assistant Director for Intelligence and Counterterrorism at the Texas Department of Public Safety and former Chief Security Officer, joins the team for a dynamic discussion. Gathered around the digital campfire, the team discusses: The current heightened state of alert at US facilities across EuropeUSoming Olympics, Para Olympics, and the Eurocup The complex operating environment in Mexico Where is the Wagner Group, one year after their "mutiny" attempt Chiquita Brands Columbian woes Stage Jumpers And more... Send us your thoughts at protectiontalk@outlook.com and join the conversation
Uriah Riley's journey in the close protection industry illustrates his unwavering dedication to learning and growth. While many individuals transition from the military to the private sector, Uriah took the opposite path. He entered the Air Force Reserves after embarking on a career in protective operations, seeking to expand his expertise in the industry. His military (and policing) background is a distinguished credential and a valuable asset, providing him with crucial training, knowledge, and networks, and a set of highly transferable skills that ensure his competence and effectiveness in both military and civilian contexts. The CiCP team discusses Uriah's path, protective operations, the importance of mentorship and coaching for personal long-term strategic growth, and his observations on risks he sees from his perspective as a public and private military intelligence profesisonal... and what a 38-year-old does in basic training! All this and more... give us your perspective at protectiontalk@outlook.com Note: All comments in the show represent the opinions of the team and the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect their affiliations with any organization.
Security oversight is a double-edged sword, with many in the industry juggling roles as practitioners and administrators. Even within larger organizations that support distinct leadership functions, those in middle management often find themselves balancing hands-on tasks with supervisory responsibilities. Join the team as they catch up with Eablement Advisors' Ivor Terret. Long overdue, Ivor talks about the plight of management and how he sees the industry moving to support the shifting paradigm towards "at the speed of business." How do you juggle the administrivia with the day-to-day work? Tell us at protectiontalk@outlook.com
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 protectiontalk@outlook.com
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 protectiontalk@outlook.com
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. Protectiontalk@outlook.com 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 jim@askmcconnell.com 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! protectiontalk@outlook.com
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 protecitontalk@outlook.com 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.