As we reflect on 2025, this episode pulls together the most important themes shaping the year ahead — from the rapid acceleration of AI and automation, to the evolving realities of security, leadership, and trust in an increasingly complex world.

What was once hidden behind the scenes is now accessible to everyone. AI has moved from the “Matrix” into daily workflows, forcing organizations to rethink efficiency, security, and human value. At the same time, rising geopolitical tension, information warfare, and emerging technologies like quantum computing are redefining what risk really looks like — both for businesses and for people.

This conversation also explores the human side of 2025: leadership under pressure, the importance of culture, mentorship, and professionalism, and why kindness, trust, and preparation are no longer “soft skills,” but strategic advantages.

From executive protection and estate management to corporate security, AI leverage, and career longevity, this episode highlights where leaders must adapt — and where getting it wrong even once can have lasting consequences.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• AI has crossed a critical threshold — no longer theoretical, but operational, accessible, and increasingly powerful
• Automation and optimization are now survival tools, not optional efficiencies
• Security threats are no longer siloed — digital, physical, personal, and reputational risks are deeply interconnected
• Quantum computing looms as a disruptive force that could render today’s encryption obsolete
• Executive protection is expanding beyond the C-suite into broader personnel and brand security
• Leadership today requires relationship capital, situational awareness, and long-term thinking
• Culture, kindness, and mentorship deliver measurable performance and retention advantages
• Careers are becoming less linear — leverage, adaptability, and mindset matter more than pedigree

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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In this Special Rewind Episode, host Mark Ledlow revisits an impactful conversation with Mike Trott, a former Air Force veteran and CIA Special Agent, whose career has been defined by protecting some of the world’s most high-profile individuals. Mike shares the journey of writing his seminal book, The Protected, and the immense pressure of securing an endorsement from former CIA Director George Tenet. They delve into the "layers of security" model, the dangers of social media misinformation, and the 2020 Beirut port explosion as a critical case study in risk management and incompetence. Mike also discusses his current role as VP of Global Safety and Security at Discovery Land, highlighting how the security industry has pivoted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation covers the vital importance of utilizing operational downtime for training and preparing for the massive impending resurgence of global corporate travel.

This Special Rewind Episode offers timeless, practical lessons for security professionals, executives, and principals seeking to strengthen decision-making, preparedness, and resilience.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Mastering the craft of security requires decades of lived experience and continuous learning.
• Security programs must be holistic; removing a single layer compromises the entire foundation.
• The endorsement of a high-level principal stems from a commitment to excellence and professional pressure.
• Social media misinformation is a growing "failed experiment" that poses significant risks to global stability.
• Effective risk assessment involves evaluating "all-hazard" scenarios, including neighboring industrial threats.
• Professional EP teams must utilize downtime for rigorous training to remain sharp for future surges in travel.

QUOTES

• “I don't think you can write a book, especially about our career... and hit all the points unless you've lived through it. That’s going to take you a few decades.”
• “If you take one or two layers out... it's like removing the foundation from your building, from your house. You're gonna have issues.”
• “Social media does a lot of good, hands down... but I think we haven't seen or been able to measure how bad it does in terms of false information.”
• “As CSOs or VP of Security and Safety, we probably didn't see this coming where we'd have to step up and be more involved with helping to understand this pandemic.”
• “If EP teams are not training right now and taking advantage of this opportunity and they're just staying at home... you're probably wrong.”
• “The executives are gonna own a full launch and it's gonna ramp up pretty quick. Get ready. It's gonna be madness.”
• “Fearless isn't just your ability to handle a high stress situation. I think fearless also applies into your ability to make good decisions.”

Get to know more about Mike Trott and his work through the links below:

• Book: www.TheProtected.us
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwtrott/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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In this episode, host Mark Ledlow is joined by Kyle Scott to discuss the importance of patience and adaptability in the security business. They emphasize continuous learning, technology adaptation, and the value of networking. Kyle shares his journey from being a Marine to becoming a key player in the security industry, stressing the significance of providing discreet and high-quality client protection. They also highlight the importance of building relationships and maintaining a strong network within the industry. The episode underscores the challenges and rewards of starting and growing a business in the field of security.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Patience and adaptability are essential in the security and business industry.
• Continuous learning and staying updated on compliance and technology drive growth.
• Building relationships and networking are crucial for success.
• Customer service and discretion are top priorities.
• The industry is rapidly evolving with technology, including open-source tools and drones.
• Training and high standards are foundational to company success.
• Helping others and making a positive impact is a core motivator.

QUOTES

• "Patience is a key. You never know what's gonna happen every day. Understanding to adapt for the minute, per the hour."
• "Starting this business is learning something every day."
• "If you want to make it in this industry, it's not now. It's when—to gain that respect from your peers."
• "My main goal anytime I work with a customer is a discreet, plain clothes, extra protection where they get to live their life day to day."
• "The core foundation of the company is training, training, training, and making sure the standard of who we hire is the top of the line."
• "I find a joy putting guys in the field to protect individuals. It’s getting pleasure seeing these people get to live a day-to-day life with ease and not have to worry about their security."

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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In this episode of the Fearless Mindset Podcast, we dive into the nuances and challenges of the Executive Protection (EP) field. The discussion covers the importance of having a clear plan, the necessity of execution in business, and the distinction between W2 and 10-99 employment in EP. The guests share their personal experiences and the inherent instability in the industry due to client indecisiveness and financial hesitations. They emphasize the value of trust and persistence in building business relationships and highlight the benefits of running a boutique agency. The conversation also delves into generational differences in job satisfaction and the importance of process-oriented business strategies. Finally, they discuss the impact of networking events and the role of referrals in business growth.

Key Takeaways

• Execution is more important than ideas—success comes from acting, not just planning.
• Trust and relationships are foundational in business, but take time to build.
• The security/executive protection industry is challenging, with little stability and a need for constant hustle.
• Adaptability and having a clear plan are critical for business survival and growth.
• Most business growth comes from referrals and word of mouth, not just visibility.

Notable Quotes

• "It all boils down to execution. The better you execute it or even just attempt to execute it, the easier it's gonna be."
• "Without the trust piece, you're just another company."
• "Business is hard. It's not for the faint of heart. Most of them fail in the first two years."
• "If I can save a veteran from committing suicide, it's worth it. And that's why I do what I do."
• "Trust doesn't come overnight."

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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In this episode of the Fearless Mindset Podcast, we delve into the importance of security and open communication within organizations. With a record number of elections and global distrust in institutions, security teams must foster collaboration and personal connectivity to build trust and ensure everyone's safety. The discussion covers the challenges of balancing security measures with human interaction, the significance of training programs, and how to manage and mitigate workplace anger effectively. The conversation also delves into the role of emotional intelligence in leadership and the need for comprehensive inside threat analysis to preemptively identify and address potential risks.

Key Takeaways

• Security is about collaboration, trust, and meeting people where they are—not just rules and restrictions.
• Open, honest conversations about difficult topics (like anger and workplace safety) are essential for a healthy organization.
• Security professionals should serve as culture-bearers, modeling the values and behaviors they want to see.
• Emotional intelligence and empathy are critical leadership skills, especially post-COVID.
• Security knowledge should be shared beyond the workplace to benefit families and communities.
• Addressing insider threats requires long-term, holistic approaches, not just reactive measures.

Notable Quotes

• "The message is not always guns, guards, gates, lock it down. The message is: how do we work together to collectively secure everyone?"
• "You have to meet people where they are. You can't be a robot."
• "Collaboration and trust are the foundation of civilization—and we need to get back to that."
• "Security is a primary culture bearer of what we do here."
• "Anger is real. It's in your organization. We have to be able to have these conversations and deal with it."
• "It all starts with you."

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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In this episode of the Fearless Mindset Podcast, we delve into the importance of leadership and creating a safe, inclusive work culture in security with industry experts. The conversation touches on the critical role of trust, leading during times of crisis, and managing risk in a rapidly changing world. Ludlow and guests share insights from recent events, the evolution of organizational threats, and how to foster a resilient, people-focused company culture.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership in security is about influencing people and building a culture of care and trust.
• Modern threats are increasingly internal, not just external, requiring leaders to "read the room" and understand employee well-being.
• Company culture is critical, especially in times of crisis and disruption; organizations with intentional cultures fare better.
• Focusing on people, not just operations, is essential for resilience and long-term success.
• Trust must be built and cannot be assumed; employees need to feel safe, accepted, and part of the mission.
• Diversity in skills, experiences, and perspectives strengthens organizations.
• Leaders should empower employees to take ownership of their own security and well-being.

Notable Quotes

• "We focus on people because people matter, and it matters a lot."
• "You are not going to hit your goals if your people are not there."
• "We are not taking care of this for them; they are part of the process."
• "Trust must be built and not assumed from day one."
• "I’m not here to hire sheriffs, I’m here to hire mayors."
• "Diversity is not about followers, religions, or converse. It’s about skills."

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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In this episode, host Mark Ledlow welcomes long-time friend and retired body agent, John Fisher, a seasoned security professional with experience in both the Marine Corps and the private sector, to discuss the transition from government to the private sector in the security industry. They reflect on Fisher's experience working with the Texas Governor's detail and his journey to starting a private security and investigation firm. Topics include the complexities of the licensing process, the importance of face-to-face interactions in building trust, the role of technology in security, and the evolving threat landscape in Texas. The discussion also covers the potential impact of AI, the integration of static guards with advanced technology, and insights into various sectors such as law enforcement and energy. Listeners are encouraged to reach out for services or collaboration opportunities and to stay tuned for upcoming episodes and events.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Transitioning from government to private security requires patience, persistence, and adaptability.
• Success in security and investigations is built on word-of-mouth, trust, and personal relationships—not just advertising.
• Face-to-face networking and going the extra mile for clients are crucial for growth.
• Texas’s security landscape is evolving with technology, but physical presence and expertise remain vital.
• The growth of energy and tech sectors in Texas is creating new security needs.
• Integrity and a commitment to truth are essential in investigative work.

QUOTES

• “You can spend all kinds of money on advertising, but people talk and if you turn out a good product and you're reliable, that speaks mounds much more than advertising.”
• “It's still a trust business. You gotta build, cultivate that relationship face to face.”
• “It's just a matter of going out and knocking on those doors… That has turned a lot of heads in this.”
• “Because the truth is the truth. And it, it, it's gonna go where it goes and whether I agree with it or not, or it's what I think happened, I have to go where the evidence and everything is going.”
• “You gotta get off your tail and, and knock on some doors. And that's part of one of the things that I think that sets me apart from others in this area.”
• “It's working together for that common goal. They've got a job that they gotta do. You've got a job that you've gotta do.”
• “It's not the end all to be all. And when they go through the courses, they're not saying it's the way, it's a way.”

Get to know more about John Fisher through the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-fisher-14a26124/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, host Mark Ledlow welcomes long-time friend and retired body agent, John Fisher, a seasoned security professional with experience in both the Marine Corps and the private sector. They delve into topics such as handling adversity, the importance of mental preparation, and tactical maneuvers in personal protection. John shares his experiences of managing security at high-stakes events, including emergency response planning and threat assessments. They also discuss the transition from government service to the private sector, offering valuable insights for aspiring security professionals.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Preparation and thinking several steps ahead are crucial in personal protection and security.
• Time and distance are your best friends in both law enforcement and private protection.
• Professionalism and compassion are both essential when dealing with the public, especially in high-stress situations.
• Having a clear, practiced plan for emergencies can make all the difference.
• The "fearless mindset" is about being prepared, not being reckless.

QUOTES

• “Time and distance is your friend. You’ve got to create that bubble.”
• “It’s not about being the strongest or having the biggest guns. It’s about using your mind and thinking ahead.”
• “There’s an attorney attached to every round.”
• “You’re going to resort back to what you train. That will become second nature.”
• “The fearless mindset—it’s not being fearful, it’s just being prepared.”

Get to know more about John Fisher through the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-fisher-14a26124/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.