When You Have Two Seconds to Make a Decision in the Line of Fire — Stories from President Reagan’s Former Protective Detail
In this episode In this episode, Danny Spriggs, Vice President of Global Security and Safety at The Associated Press and former Secret Service deputy director, reflects on his quick actions during the 1981 assassination attempt on President Reagan. He also discusses the complexities of protecting journalists worldwide and the importance of proactive security and contingency…
Read MoreAnticipating Risk on a Global Scale from Salesforce’s Strategic Intelligence Team
In this episode In this episode, Lewis Sage-Passant, Global Strategic Intelligence Manager at Salesforce, explores how corporate intelligence teams can evolve from reactive functions into strategic business enablers. He and Fred discuss how to forecast global risks, communicate intelligence in business terms, and build trust across the enterprise. Lewis also shares insights from his academic…
Read MoreWhat Security Teams Neglect to Consider When Protecting Executives Abroad
In this episode In this episode, Fred Burton talks with Harding Bush, head of security operations at Global Rescue and former Navy SEAL, about the unpredictable realities of international travel and crisis response. Drawing on decades of experience—from oil fields in Yemen to rescue operations in remote regions—Harding shares what it takes to plan for…
Read MoreA Private Investigator’s View into Managing a Targeted Threat
In this episode In this episode, Rob Kimmons, Owner of Kimmons Investigations, shares his decades of experience handling targeted threats and conducting high-stakes investigations. Building on his previous appearance, Rob dives deeper into the complexities of Technical Surveillance Counter Measures (TSCM), the types of cases his firm manages, and the skill sets required to handle…
Read MoreCombating Extremism, Terrorism and Hate from Anti-Defimation League’s Oren Segal
In this episode In this episode, Fred sits down with Oren Segal, Vice President of the ADL’s Center on Extremism, to explore how intelligence and data are used to track and counter extremist threats across the U.S. Oren shares insights from over two decades of frontline work monitoring hate groups, training law enforcement, and guiding…
Read MoreA Glimpse into Opening a Professional Sports Stadium from Austin FC’s Director of Safety and Security
In this episode When you attend an Austin FC professional soccer game there is a palpable energy felt within the stadium and surrounding metro area. However, beneath the surface of the sea of green and white, there are intricate and proactive security measures in place to make the event enjoyable for all. In this episode,…
Read MoreAvoiding Vehicle Violence with Executive Driving Legend Tony Scotti
In this episode In this episode, we sit down with Tony Scotti, a Protective Intelligence Honors recipient and renowned expert in security driving and vehicle violence avoidance. With nearly 50 years of global experience training corporations, governments, and military organizations, Tony reflects on his career, the founding of the International Security Driver Association (ISDA), and…
Read MoreA Female Perspective in the Male-Dominated Field of Executive Protection
In this episode In this episode, Fred Burton talks with Denida Grow, a trailblazer in executive protection with nearly two decades of international experience. They unpack the unique challenges women face in the field, the rising demand for skilled female agents, and how Denida is shaping the future through her companies Athena Worldwide and Nannyguards.…
Read MoreTaking Back Control of Online Reputation and Privacy
In this episode Digital breadcrumbs can pose real-world dangers—especially for high-profile executives. In this episode, Fred Burton sits down with Rich Matta, CEO of ReputationDefender, to break down how online privacy is becoming a frontline issue in physical security. With threats on the rise, the conversation explores how removing or obscuring personal details online can…
Read MoreScott Stewart and Fred Burton Discuss the Attack Cycle and Pre-Operational Surveillance
In this episode When it comes to spotting potential threats, it’s often the subtle details that matter most. In this episode, Fred Burton sits down with Scott Stewart, Vice President at TorchStone Global and former Diplomatic Security Service Special Agent, to unpack how the attack cycle plays out in real-world scenarios. From analyzing pre-operational surveillance…
Read MoreWhat Makes Someone Predisposed to Stalking and the Shifting Threat Landscape
In this episode In this episode, Fred Burton speaks with Dr. Reid Meloy, renowned forensic psychologist and co-founder of WAVR-21, about the psychology behind fixation and stalking. They explore what drives individuals to obsess over public figures, executives, and celebrities—and how those behaviors can escalate to violence. Dr. Meloy reflects on his shift from litigation…
Read MoreFormer CIA Special Agent Shares Perspective on the Timeless Practice of Executive Protection
In this episode In this episode, Fred Burton sits down with Mike Trott, former CIA special agent and seasoned international security expert, to explore the timeless craft of protection. They discuss how the principles of close protection have remained constant, even as threats, tools, and tactics have evolved. Mike reflects on lessons learned from his…
Read MoreSeeing Around Corners with Walmart’s Former General Counsel
In this episode In this episode, Fred sits down with Tom Mars, Former General Counsel of Walmart and Ontic Advisory Board Member, to discuss the critical relationship between corporate security and legal functions in reducing company liability. Tom reflects on his time at Walmart, emphasizing the importance of breaking down silos and fostering open communication…
Read MoreHow the Kidnapping of Exxon’s President Forever Changed Executive Protection
In this episode Even in the safest suburbs, high net worth individuals face heightened risks, as exemplified by the 1992 kidnapping of Sidney Reso, President of Exxon International. In this episode, Fred interviews author Philip Jett to uncover the harrowing details of Reso’s abduction, the $18 million ransom demand, and the two-month investigation that followed.…
Read MoreCognitive Traps and the Mindset of a Successful Protective Intelligence Analyst
In this episode In this episode, Fred and Carmen discuss what it takes to build an Intelligence program and what she looks for in an Analyst. Carmen shares her stories of dealing with leaders, falling into cognitive traps and what it means when we sometimes ‘get it wrong’. Carmen Medina is a thirty two year…
Read MoreBehind the Wheel: Secure Transportation in Executive Protection
In this episode In this episode, Fred Burton sits down with secure transportation pioneer Tony Scotti to explore the critical role of vehicles in executive protection. They dive into the science behind protective driving, how secure driving training has evolved, and what’s next in automotive security technology. Tony also shares insights from real-life cases of…
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