Episodes
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In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Dye, a seasoned expert in Dignitary and Executive Protection. Kevin's career began as an enlisted Air Force defender, where he honed skills in both defensive and law enforcement missions. His transition to the U.S. Secret Service was natural, as both entities share a dual mission of law enforcement and protection. Kevin served with distinction in the Secret Service for over two decades, including in the elite Presidential Protective Division, safeguarding Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, among other high-profile dignitaries.We dive into Kevin’s impressive career highlights, including managing security at presidential inaugurations and international summits. Beyond his operational duties, Kevin has been instrumental in developing training programs that have since become standards within the Secret Service. His work in crisis management and training continues to impact the security industry today.
Kevin now works as a Senior Manager in private executive protection and serves on the Board of Executive Protection Professionals, helping shape the ANSI standards for executive protection.
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Sponsor Shout-Outs: WheelsUp Whiskey
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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined Rhys Dowden and Clancy Roberts as they talk through there martial arts journeys.
Guest 1: Rhys Dowden (Operator Edge)
Background: Joined the Australian Army in 1999, initially in the Cavalry. Attempted SAS Selection in 2002. Later, after contracting in Iraq as a private security contractor, rejoined the military, successfully passing Commando selection in 2008 with 4RAR (later 2CDO). Rhys served for 12 years, including two deployments to Afghanistan—one as an assaulter and another as a Special Forces sniper. Now runs Operator Edge, focusing on prepping future SF candidates and offering mindset and physical training.Website: Operator EdgeSocials: Instagram, LinkedIn, FacebookGuest 2: Clancy Roberts (Way-Finder Field Skills)
Background: Joined the Army Reserves in 2003 and went full-time with 3RAR in 2005. Deployed to Timor multiple times and passed selection in 2010. Deployed to Afghanistan three times and Iraq twice before discharging in 2016. Currently runs Way-Finder Field Skills, focusing on preparing military and law enforcement personnel in navigation and field skills.Website: Way-Finder Field SkillsSocials: Instagram, LinkedIn, FacebookEpisode Overview: This episode is part of a series discussing the intersection of martial arts, military service, and the security industry. We are joined by two Australian Special Forces veterans, Rhys Dowden and Clancy Roberts, both of whom have achieved black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). We explore their journeys through martial arts, how it has shaped their careers, and its impact on their lives.
Topics Covered:
Military Background:Clancy: From Army Reserves to full-time 3RAR and later Special Forces. Multiple deployments to Timor, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Transition into civilian life and launching Way-Finder Field Skills.Rhys: From initial military service in the Cavalry, attempting SAS selection, to contracting in Iraq. Returning to the military, passing Commando selection, and serving as an assaulter and sniper.Introduction to Martial Arts:
Martial Arts Journey: Both Rhys and Clancy have trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) for years, achieving black belts. Discussion of their progression, challenges, and the benefits martial arts have provided in their military and post-military careers.Impact of Martial Arts on Security Industry:
Practical Skills: How martial arts, particularly BJJ, has translated into practical skills in the security industry, especially in high-stress environments.Mental Toughness: The role of martial arts in developing mental resilience and discipline.Individual Business Ventures:
Rhys: Operator Edge focuses on preparing future SF candidates through mindset and physical training. Discussion on the "small wins phenomenon" and how to mentally and physically prepare for high-pressure situations.Clancy: Way-Finder Field Skills prepares military and law enforcement personnel in navigation and field skills, helping them gain confidence and proficiency in critical tasks.Martial Arts and the Future:
Past, Present, and Future: Reflections on how martial arts have evolved and where Rhys and Clancy see the industry going. Discussion on the importance of continued training and innovation.Shout Outs and Closing Thoughts:Websites: Operator Edge, Way-Finder Field SkillsSocials: Instagram, LinkedIn, FacebookContact Info: Emails for direct inquiries.Media: Include relevant images or clips from their training sessions, martial arts events, or previous interviews.
Sponsor Shout-Outs: WheelsUp Whiskey
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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Patrick Kane who is the director of security with a US corporation with operations worldwide. Patrick is heavily focused on developing and implementing mitigation measures to support highly mobile global workforce and multiple traveler's, to include pre-travel risk assessments, coordinating secure transportation and journey management, assessing hotel and transportation options.
Patrick currently serves as the Chair of the ASIS International Santa Barbara Ventura Chapter #21 and is the President of the Corporate Executive Protection Leadership Council (CEPLC). He recently spearheaded the creation of a Travel Risk Working Group within ASIS International. Patrick is also the past Chair and Chair Emeritus of the OSAC Aviation Security Working Group. He has over 20 years of experience working in private sector corporate security; most of that time focused on international operations and has personal experience on the ground in more than 70 countries.
Since 1996 Patrick has been a Certified Protection Professional (CPP) in good standing under the auspices of ASIS International. He received an International Executive MBA from Instituto de Empresa in Madrid, Spain in 2004. Prior to entering the private sector, Patrick served as an infantry officer in the US Marine Corps. He welcomes questions, comments and suggestions and can be reached at [email protected] or via LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickkane2/
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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Justin Hanson, CD. Through 27 years working with law enforcement, and the military with multiple deployments internationally and domestically, he’s honed both hard and soft skills. He’s trained thousands of soldiers, military police and other law enforcement personnel. What hasn't Justin done in Executive Protection from running multinational operations to training some of the best agents in the world in the art of Dignitary protection.He’s passionate about sharing his extensive knowledge not just with those in the industry, but with regular civilians. Through SpecVIP Protection Group Inc., he offers courses covering the basics of personal protection, including self-defence and travel preparation.Not only is he a stand out in the field, he's also a straight up hero. This is a much shortened piece on his bravery during an active shooter situation.
Justin Hanson was cleaning up after his child’s second birthday party when he heard what he initially thought was fireworks. But when he looked across the lake bordering his home, he saw an active shooter.Hanson is the type of person you want at such a scene. With two decades of experience in personal security, he directed guests to take cover, helped the police control the scene and administered first aid to the victims.Later, when everything was over, his neighbours remained afraid. Hanson responded by creating the Edmonton Safe & Secure Project — a collection of Facebook groups for neighbourhoods throughout the city — to keep people as informed as possible about safety and security in their area.
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“Cleared Hot” - Special Ops Combat Controller, Author, Hot Sauce & Tequila aficionado Havoc 06 Troy Knight.
"Cleared Hot" - The term used by Special Operations Combat Controller Teams to authorise an aircraft to engage an enemy target!
Wheels Up Hosts, Troy Claydon and Ben Hosking sit down with a founding member of Australia's Special Operations Combat Controller capability and former Australian Combat Controller Troy Knight AKA Havoc 06. (podcast link at the bottom of this article.)
They talk about his journey prior to defence, his time in the military across multiple deployments and his journey post discharge including the challenges he faced with his mental health and conversely about the positive culture changes in the ADF.
Troy and Troy talk about their times contracting in Iraq working as Private Security in hostile environments and Troy K stint as a linguist and Maritime Security Operator.
Nowadays Troy Knight is a motivational speaker and entrepreneur selling his Cleared Hot Brand of chilli sauces and alcohol beverages. Get on over to his website https://troyknight.com.au/store/ to purchase them and his amzing book Havoc06
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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Simon Chen who is the CEO and founder of Eight Black, a company based in Longmont, Colorado that provides high-performance consulting services to CEOs, as well as executive transportation and security solutions.[1][2][4]He founded Eight Black in 2013 and serves as the Chief Executive Officer, leading the company's operations and growth.[2] He served 8 years in the Australian Defence Force before entering private enterprise to work in his family business. He later moved across to the Telecommunication industry becoming an C suite level executive in the space. As his career progressed he lost the passion for the industry and found himself leaving to seek out a different future that ended up leading to running his own private hire black car service in Colorado.Eight Black operates brands like Eight Black Executive Transport, Alpenglow Express, Longmont Shuttle, and Boulder Shuttle, providing premium ground transportation, executive protection, security consulting, and concierge services.[2]Chen has extensive experience in the Asia-Pacific region, previously serving as the Managing Partner and Asia Pacific [2]He has expertise in areas like telecom consulting, business process outsourcing (BPO) strategy, web development, online marketing strategies (SEO, SEM, email marketing), and social media consulting.[2]Simon Chen is the entrepreneurial founder and CEO driving the growth of Eight Black, a multifaceted company offering consulting, transportation, security, and concierge services, with a focus on the technology sector and the Colorado region.[1][2][3][4]Links:[1] https://www.eightblack.com/management/simon-chen/[2] https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonjchen[3] https://globalbond.co/eight-black-simon-chen-visit-to-global-bond/[4] https://www.longmontleader.com/directory/taxi-limo-and-bus-services/eightblack-81102/contact/344325[5] https://www.linkedin.com/posts/simonjchen_executiveprotection-eightblack-activity-7196829562909904896-2cQF
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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Dustin Osborne who is a Sergeant with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) in Australia. He is also closely associated with ATMA, which stands for the Australian Tactical Medical Association and sits on several working boards involved with the betterment of Law Enforcement and Medical First Response.
He joined the Queensland Police Service in 2008 and has been attached to the Fortitude Valley Police Station as a general duties officer.[1][2]
Osborne is actively involved in promoting tactical first aid and medical training within the QPS.[3][4]
He has presented at ATMA conferences, including ATMC18 and ATMC19 (Australian Tactical Medical Conference), on topics related to tactical medicine and enabling life-saving interventions by police officers.[1][2][3][4]- At ATMC18, he delivered a presentation titled "Stop the Killing Enable the Living," highlighting the importance of tactical first aid for law enforcement.[1][2]- At ATMC19, he co-presented with Prue Snedden on "Tactical First Aid in Queensland Police," discussing the integration of tactical medical training within the QPS.[3][4]
Osborne is passionate about equipping police officers with the necessary medical skills to provide immediate life-saving care in high-risk situations.[1][2][3][4]
He has completed a graduate certificate in Tactical Medicine, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing the medical capabilities of law enforcement personnel.[5
Osborne maintains close ties with ATMA, an organisation dedicated to promoting tactical medicine and improving medical support for high-risk operations in Australia.[1][2][3][4][5]
Dustin's Links
[1] https://atma.podbean.com/e/atmc18-snr-cst-dustin-osborne-stop-the-killing-enable-the-living/
[2] https://www.audacy.com/podcast/the-atma-podcast-aa441/episodes/atmc18-snr-cst-dustin-osborne-stop-the-killing-enable-the-living-a47e6
[3] https://www.audacy.com/podcast/the-atma-podcast-aa441/episodes/atmc19-tactical-first-aid-in-queensland-police-scst-dustin-osborne-ccp-prue-snedden-84148
[4] https://atma.podbean.com/e/atmc19-tactical-first-aid-in-queensland-police-scst-dustin-osborne-ccp-prue-snedden/
[5] https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dustin-osborne-221105152_police-medic-tecc-activity-6869514278051954688-p0u9
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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Anthony Goulart. With over 10 years of experience in U.S. Special Operations which focused on personnel recovery, emergency medical care, and tactical prowess in austere environments. Anthony is passionate about elevating the protective sectors with a holistic, unmatched solution that blends combat operation discipline with medical proficiency. He is currently the CEO of XPJ, a collective of former Pararescuemen serving UHNW Family Offices and Adventure seekers with discernment and empathy.At XPJ, Anthony's role is to oversee the strategic direction, operations, and partnerships of the organization. He leverages his expertise as a rescue specialist to translate battle-hardened tactics into a more permissive private sector. This formula combines interpersonal relationship "soft skills" with protective "hard skills" to facilitate safe boundaries for clients. With an array of certifications, including NREMT-Paramedic, An Associate's degree in Personnel Recovery, PADI Master Diver, MFF Jumpmaster, Advanced Tactical Paramedic, TCCC and TECC instructor. When you think it can't get any better he is also a thinker, a philosopher and student of history. Who believes that your body is a reflection of your mind, and visa versa.His personal Motto:Honour, Loyalty, and Couragehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyxpj/https://www.xpjglobal.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/xpj/
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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast, we have taken a bit of a break but we are back and better than ever!
On today's episode Troy chats to Panoptic employee and new co-host of the Wheels Up Podcast, Ben Hosking. Ben has incredible stories and history of past work and is a wealth of knowledge. They also delve into what the podcast is going to look like this year and the plethora of guests that will be joining them for a conversation.
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Panoptic Solutions has partnered with PFC for several years. This allows PFC's clients to travel to APAC and access world-class services via Panoptic Solutions, and vice-versa for Panoptic Solutions clients who travel to the US and beyond.
The partnership is based on trust and credibility, understanding that either company would only refer a distant service to their clients of the same standard as their own. The similarities don't stop there! Along with the ethos and attention to detail, PFC Group of Companies have an expansive network of verified vendors and services that they provide.
See how Panoptic Solutions is a trusted partner for companies that are based in the US.
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Returning from Iraq after her time as a private military contractor and ending her career in the military, Neryl Joyce looked for a new career that would professionally challenge and motivate her like her previous roles. She made an unusual move and became an Operations Manager at the Christmas Island Detention Centre where she faced an intense couple of years.
In this episode, find out how Neryl dealt with being in a high intensity environment while explaining the conditions of the centre and how she handled some high profile incidents.
(See here for episode 1 of this discussion)
Highlights:
Conditions of the Christmas Island Detention CentreDealing with a high intensity environment that has no policies and proceduresSafety and security issuesNegotiating with refugeesThe December 2010 refugee boat incidentHow to process extreme situationsWorking on the new Yongah Hill Immigration Detention CentreMercenary Mum - Neryl’s journey from young mother to Baghdad bodyguardWhat it takes to be a good leaderCONTACT US
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Working within the male dominated field of defence and surrounded by boy’s club culture, Neryl Attkins faced many challenges. Her journey as a woman in the armed forces made it harder for her to be heard and stand her ground in particular situations.
In this episode, you will hear Neryl’s incredible journey, discharging from the Australian Army to become a private military contractor and how she dealt with numerous events, such as protecting Tier 1 targets in Baghdad and the Root Irish incident, where she lost some close colleagues.
Highlights:
Working as an Australian Army officerHer time in the Australian Army’s elite close personal protection unit.How the Australian Army close personal protection operatives course differs from Ronin SAMoving from the Australian Military Police to a private military contractor in IraqProtecting the Iraqi Electoral Commissioners - VIP’s with Tier 1 targetsRealisation of being in a war zoneRoot Irish incident explainedCriticism of management during the Root Irish incidentWhat should security operatives take away from this Root Irish incidentIdentifying risks without fear from backlashCompleting Ronin SA after her time in the force.Taking back control when feeling powerless after the Root Irish incidentCONTACT NERYL
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Troy Claydon and Steve Albritton delve deep into setting up your own security industry business. If you’re even thinking about starting your own security business, this episode is a must.
Not only do they discuss how to open a security business in Australia and the United States of America, but they also get real honest when talking about their own mistakes and give you set of essential tips needed to get you started.Episode Highlights:
You can own your own business and just be youApproximately, 80% of businesses within the security world are contractorsMistakes Troy and Steve made when starting outA mentor is a mustThe one biggest mistake that’ll ruin your name/companyNot every competitor is an enemyPartnering upA word on licensingInsurance is a mustBe prepared to float yourselfMarketing is all about finding the right tacticArt to networking – Don’t be a leachBasic tips for newcomersUpskill and continue to trainCONTACT US
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Former stunt actor, Russell Price, has worked alongside some of the greatest martial arts actors in the world, like Jackie Chan and Jet Li. Aside from his work as a stunt actor, he has an impressive resume with 10 years in the British Royal Marines, 40 years in the martial arts space and 23 years working within the security industry internationally. Not to mention, he has a 6-dan Black Belt in Shotokan Karate and was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2015.In this podcast, Russ discusses how his previous experiences have shaped his work in the security industry while giving you some practical tips to looks out for when travelling.
Highlights
How martial arts can help shape a career in securityActing with Jet Li in one of the coolest fight scenes you’ll see in a movieWorking with Jackie ChanWhy prominent people like Jean-Claude Van Damme need close protection servicesHow to stay alert when travellingWorking with the U.S Secret Services and the European Dignitary Protection UnitChallenges faced when emigrating from the U.K to Australia in the security worldCamp Black - the reboot for brain and body retreatEbook – The Seven Golden SecretsCONTACT US
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We’re excited to introduce co-host, Steven Albritton, to our listeners. Steve is the principal owner of OPStructure, based out of Florida. He has vast experience in the security world, not only in the USA but internationally. Executive protection is a very different ball game in the USA, so it will be great to get Steve’s view on particular topics and past experiences working within and outside of the USA.
Troy and Steve will be bringing you key professionals at the top of their game in specific industries to discuss key safety and security issues.
Highlights:
Politics moulding the security industry OBStructure overview Challenges faced by smaller executive protection companies Update on Panoptic Solutions What to expect moving forwardCONTACT US
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Ronin is one of (if not the most) renowned civilian training academies for protection training globally. Located in Cape Town South Africa, the academy has an unmatched environment that covers all aspects of protection training from firearm competency training to experiencing frontline ambulance shifts, all in the heart of South Africa and its unpredictable climate.In this episode, you’ll hear from the founder of Ronin, Timm Smith, who has an unprecedented CV within the personal protection arena. You'll learn all about Timm’s journey, the creation of Ronin and its high standards while learning what it takes to be a Ronin student and graduate.Episode Highlights:
Differences between the UK and the US for close protection trainingThe evolution of close protection trainingBattles within a unified warBringing the medical aspect into the protection spaceDespite Ronin’s strict application process, their high standards mean 25% of students do not make it to graduationWhat makes a great Ronin studentHow do highly qualified doctors hold up against Ronin’s standardsWhat’s next for Ronin?CONTACT US
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Sorry to have left you hanging - we’ve been on a quick breather due to the workload with clients across multiple countries. We’re back, and we’ve made some exciting new changes to the format of our podcast. In this podcast, you’ll find out about our changes, hear our outstanding lineup of guest speakers for the next several weeks and get a quick update on Panoptic Solutions.
Episode Highlights:
What’s been happening.Our latest lineup of guests to appear on the showAnnouncing a new part time co-host.Update on Panoptic SolutionsMissing persons case, Annapuranee Jenkins.Quick note on ANZAC Day.CONTACT US
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When we think of stalkers and death threats we tend to think of it as being a problem for high profile personalities or celebrities. Most situations involving ‘normal’ people rarely make the news unless the circumstances are drastic but it is a problem much more common that most of us realise.
In this podcast, we look at the nature of stalking and stalkers and how to respond to stalking situations.
Episode Highlights:
The Australian Bureau of Statistics in 2012 did a survey and they reported that one in five women will experience stalking at some stage in their life and one in thirteen men will actually experience stalking in their life.95% of cases where women are stalked involve men as the perpetrator while male victims have a more even split with men and women roughly accounting for 50% of the perpetrator count.What are the four stalker profile types?Seven Actions To Take If You Suspect You Are Being StalkedStalkers are irrational and unpredictable and often mentally unstable so it’s best to get the experts involved as early as possible.CONTACT US
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Are you aware that up to 2,000 people around the world are currently being held against their will in one form or another? Or that somewhere between 12,000 and 15,000 people a year are kidnapped for ransom or held hostage? The fact is, risk is ever present whoever and wherever you are, and being prepared to deal with a situation like detainment, kidnapping or surviving captivity can never be a bad thing. Luckily, there are organisations that provide training for these eventualities and today we chat with a course instructor from the adverse environments team at Panoptic Solutions about the kinds of strategies he recommends.
Episode Highlights:
Everyone is at risk of captivityThe differences between being illegally kidnapped for ransom or held hostage (where you’re a captive) versus being pulled over by the police for speeding and legally taken to the station (where you’re a detainee).Developing situational awarenessWhy preparation is keyWhat to do in the event of capturehttps://expertsonair.fm/12-000-to-15-000-people-held-captive-every-year/
http://www.panopticsolutions.com/security/content/12-000-to-15-000-people-held-captive-every-year
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Can mindset really help travellers and security operatives respond safely to uncertain circumstances? This podcast interview with former Australian Special Forces soldier and hostile environment security expert, Rhys Dowden about the benefits of a preparation mindset. He explains his holistic approach to confidence in any situation and his tips for getting the edge on life.
Episode Highlights:
About Rhys Dowden and Operator EdgeTypes of travellers explainedThe preparation mindsetMission planning puts you in controlA holistic approach to planning travel assures the best results5 tips for getting the edge on lifeCONTACT US
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http://www.panopticsolutions.com/security/content/getting-edge-life-interview-rhys-dowden
https://expertsonair.fm/getting-edge-life-interview-rhys-dowden/
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