The Ontic Connected Intelligence Podcast

Modern executive protection requires far more than a physical presence. In this episode, Fred Burton speaks with Bryan Niederhelm, Senior Vice President of Threat Assessment and Management at Gavin de Becker & Associates, about the evolving landscape of protective intelligence, threat assessment, and violence prevention. Bryan shares why the fundamentals of human behavior, preparation, and disciplined observation remain critical, even as AI and emerging technologies reshape the security conversation. The discussion also explores how protectors can avoid over-reliance on tools, build curiosity into their work, and better communicate risk to the people they protect. What you'll learn: Why modern protection depends on preparation, mindset, and understanding human behavior How AI, drones, and emerging technologies may influence protective intelligence Why curiosity and humility are essential skills for the next generation of protectors Learn more in Ontic Resources. If you're enjoying this episode, please take a minute to rate and review the show.

Host Fred Burton reunites with longtime colleague Scott Stewart, Vice President of Protective Intelligence at Torchstone Global, to unpack the evolving landscape of executive protection. Drawing on recent high-profile attacks and their own book, The Protective Intelligence Advantage, they explore how threat actors operate, what today’s organizations often overlook, and why simple, time-tested security fundamentals still matter in a technology-driven world. Scott highlights the critical gaps in understanding pre-operational surveillance, digital exhaust, and target selection. Together, they unravel the growing need for protective intelligence programs that blend human expertise with modern tools. What You’ll Learn:Why recent attacks signal a shift in executive protection and the rising importance of protective intelligenceHow pre-operational surveillance, behavioral cues, and digital exhaust reveal attackers’ methodsWhy simple, foundational security practices remain essential even as new technologies transform the fieldLearn more in Ontic Resources here.If you’re enjoying this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show.

In this episode of the Connected Intelligence Podcast, Jim McConnell shares insights from more than three decades in corporate and critical infrastructure security, exploring the evolution of converged security and safety metrics. Together with Manish, he discusses how organizations can move beyond silos to create unified, data-driven security strategies that strengthen both safety and operational resilience. The conversation also dives into the cultural and practical aspects of launching effective metrics programs and how AI will influence the future of security measurement and decision-making.You'll learn:The difference between security and safety metrics—and why both are essential for creating environments where people truly feel safeHow to build a culture of accountability around data by focusing on ownership, simplicity, and readiness before launching a metrics programWays AI can serve as a force multiplier for security professionals, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making across converged environmentsLearn more in Ontic Resources.If you’re enjoying this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show.

In this episode, Manish speaks with Michael Civitano, Senior Security Manager of Intelligence and GSOC at ServiceNow, about transforming incident management from reactive firefighting to proactive resilience. They unpack how modern GSOCs can streamline incident detection and response through simplified processes, empowered teams, and the strategic use of AI. The discussion also explores how collaboration, adaptability, and data-driven forecasting elevate incident management from an operational function to a vital business enabler.What you'll learn:How to reimagine incident management as an enterprise-wide risk strategy rather than a siloed security processPractical ways to enhance response speed and decision-making through automation, clear playbooks, and human-centered leadershipLessons from real-world crises on staying flexible, maintaining communication, and building trusted cross-functional relationships that drive resilienceLearn more about Ontic's Incident Management solution here.If you’re enjoying this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show.

Rachel Briggs, CEO of The Clarity Factory, joins us again on the Connected Intelligence Podcast to share findings from The Clarity Factory's Annual CSO Survey, proudly sponsored by Ontic. We explore how security leaders can break silos, tackle insider risk, and adapt to the rapidly evolving threat landscape. She highlights the growing need for cross-functional partnerships, the rising urgency around insider risk, and the expanding role of AI in security operations. Briggs also explains the importance of storytelling as a leadership skill to connect with the C-suite and demonstrate the value of corporate security.You'll learn:How security leaders can use storytelling to influence executives and secure resources Practical strategies for building effective insider risk programsWhere CSOs are finding real value with AI todayYou can download The Clarity Factory's Annual CSO Survey here.If you’re enjoying this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show.

In this episode, Fred sits down with Scott McHugh, a veteran of both federal service and Fortune 100 security leadership, to explore what the public and private sectors can learn from each other. They dive into how public-sector urgency, mission focus, and intelligence practices can strengthen corporate programs—and how the private sector’s agility, innovation, and risk tolerance can enhance federal preparedness. The discussion also addresses critical infrastructure threats, the shortcomings of public-private partnerships, and the potential for AI to bridge operational silos across sectors.You'll learn:How public-sector intelligence practices can elevate private securityWhy federal agencies struggle to match the private sector’s tech agilityWhat’s missing in public-private security partnerships—and how to fix itSign up for our monthly newsletter here.If you’re enjoying this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show.

Fred Burton sits down with Nina Hobson, a seasoned executive protection leader, to explore the evolving landscape of security for high-profile individuals. They discuss the critical role of intelligence, the impact of social media on modern protection strategies, and the importance of authenticity and trust in building client relationships. With over 20 years of experience, Nina shares her journey from detective work to global executive protection, offering valuable insights for professionals in the field.You'll learnHow social media has transformed risk management and the strategies required to protect high-profile clients in today’s hyper-connected worldHow Nina emphasizes authenticity, reputation, and leading by example to foster trust with clients and teamsWhy intelligence gathering and analysis are the foundation of effective executive protection and how it shapes daily operationsDon't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the show!

Join Fred Burton as he interviews bestselling author Brad Thor to discuss his latest thriller, Edge of Honor. Brad shares the inspiration behind the book, blending patriotism, traditional spycraft, and modern geopolitical tensions, and dives into the challenges of crafting realistic fiction while staying grounded in current events. He also explores the evolving landscape of corporate security, insights into intelligence operations, and the delicate balance of loyalty versus duty.You'll LearnThe real-world events and personal stories that shaped Brad's gripping new novelThe parallels between Scott Harvath’s high-stakes adventures and today’s corporate protection challengesInsight into how Brad balances authenticity with storytelling in his renowned thrillersPre-order Edge of Honor here: https://bit.ly/4694A7JIf you’re enjoying the show, please take a moment to rate and review.Sign up for our monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/45EpaN7