Wheels Up - Safety and Security for Business, Executive and VIP Travellers Podcast

Your body doesn't respond to actual threat. It responds to perceived threat. In close protection, policing and any high-consequence role, that one fact separates the operator who stays composed from the one who becomes a liability to the principal and the team. In Episode 17, Ben Hosking is joined by Panoptic Solutions' Executive Protection & Training Manager Ben Hartley and returning guest Dr Adam Szlezak, a performance coach working in psychophysiology. Ben Hartley describes his path from infantry digger to builder, to professional gridiron player in Germany, to Army Military Police close protection officer. He then opens up the nine-day residential Close Protection Course he wrote, from the barrier fitness test to the final full mission profile. Dr Adam explains the science underneath it: survival biology and the "crocodile at the water hole", Recognise & Regulate, building your own somatic profile, and co-regulation. Co-regulation is how an operator's body language signals safety or threat to a principal and to an aggressor. Together they cover how to read the physical warning signs in a crowd, why failure points are data rather than defeat, why skills fade, and why the best operators never stop training the basics. "High-level operators aren't constantly regulated. They're constantly regulating." – Dr Adam Szlezak Chapters 0:00 Intro 0:26 Meet Ben Hartley 8:21 Dr Adam Szlezak returns 12:08 Inside the nine-day course 18:53 Pass/fail pressure: perceived safety vs perceived threat 32:08 The crocodile at the water hole: Recognise & Regulate, co-regulation 39:24 Combatives, getting off the X and the intelligent operator 51:00 Reading people: crowds and physical warning signs 1:07:28 Failure points: capability over pass/fail 1:13:28 Range day, skill fade and the taser story 1:28:51 Reality-based training and what's next 1:50:10 Outro Course dates and intakes: panopticsolutions.com Look Far, Look Near, Look Rear. This episode contains strong language.

In this inspiring episode of the Wheels Up podcast, hosts Troy Claydon and Ben Hosking of Panoptic Solutions engage with celebrated entrepreneur Mark Wright, winner The Apprentice UK in 2014, who went on to be UK Entrepreneur of the year 2018 and listed in Forbes 30 under 30. The conversation explores Mark’s path from small-town Australia to building a digital marketing empire in the UK, highlighting crucial lessons in entrepreneurship, adaptability, mentorship, and the power of staying authentic even under the spotlight. Mark’s experiences and candid advice offer valuable insights into business success, personal growth, and navigating the evolving world of digital marketing. Show Notes 00:00 – 05:00 – Introduction Troy and Ben welcome listeners back after a brief hiatus. Introduction of Mark Wright, highlighting his entrepreneurial journey. 05:01 – 15:00 – Mark Wright's Background and Achievements (Challenges and Success in Business) Discussion on Mark's experience winning The Apprentice UK in 2014. Insights into founding Climb Online, a digital marketing agency backed by Lord Alan Sugar. 15:01 – 30:00 – Entrepreneurial Challenges and Mentorship Mark shares experiences dealing with the pressures of starting and scaling a business. He discusses the importance of mentorship and having a board of advisors for business growth. Emphasis on the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in entrepreneurship and also the role of mentors in accelerating business success in providing valuable insights. 30:01 – 45:00 – Sales Techniques and Customer Relationships plus Digital Marketing Insights Mark discusses the importance of sales and customer relationships in business and of delivering on promise and maintaining high standards to build trust with customers.. The significance of a strong online presence for business. Mark discusses strategies for effective digital marketing and customer engagement. 45:01 – 50:00 – Closing Thoughts Final insights from Mark on the future of digital marketing and entrepreneurship. Emphasizing the importance of mentorship, goal-setting, and continuous improvement. Hosts thank Mark for his contributions and preview upcoming episodes. Key Takeaways Adaptability is Crucial: The business landscape is ever-changing; entrepreneurs must be ready to adapt to new challenges. Continuous Learning: Ongoing education and staying updated with industry trends are vital for success. The Power of Mentorship: Learning from those who have achieved what you aspire to is a game-changer. Strong Online Presence: Effective digital marketing is essential for business growth and customer engagement. Authenticity Wins: Fame and success are easier to navigate when you stay true to yourself. About Mark Wright Mark Wright is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and digital marketing expert, best known for winning The Apprentice UK and being named UK Entrepreneur of the Year in 2018. Featured on Forbes 30 Under 30, Mark grew his business from a share house startup to a multi-million-dollar enterprise. Originally from Australia, he has become a prominent figure in British business through strategic leadership, calculated risk-taking, and a relentless drive for growth. Connect with Mark Wright & Panoptic Solutions Open to Feedback, Questions, and Business Opportunities The episode is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs at any stage — from startup to scale-up. You can connect with Mark on the links below. But in the meantime throw on the headphones, click the Wheels Up Podcast Link below and enjoy! Don’t forget to subscribe and give us a 5 star rating on your favourite podcast platform! 🔗 Connect Mark Wright Linkedin Instagram 🔗 Follow Panoptic Solutions Linkedin Instagram Facebook Youtube X Website

Guest: Michael Byrom – CEO, The Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation Consultant at McBride Legal | Director at Southern Cross Soloists Ltd In this episode, we speak with Michael Byrom, a legal expert and philanthropist dedicated to making a difference through The Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation. With a career spanning over 40 years in commercial law, corporate governance, and contract negotiation, Michael shares his journey from the legal world to leading one of Australia’s most impactful cycling-based fundraising initiatives. Listeners will gain insight into the intersection of business, philanthropy, and endurance challenges, as Michael discusses how The Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation has raised over $44 million for children’s charities and continues to build a legacy of executive networking through high-performance cycling events. Key Takeaways 🔹 Transforming Passion into Purpose – How Chain Reaction uses endurance cycling to drive fundraising and executive engagement. 🔹 The Power of Executive Networks – Why senior business leaders are drawn to this initiative and how they make an impact beyond the boardroom. 🔹 Lessons in Resilience & Leadership – What endurance sports can teach corporate leaders about perseverance, teamwork, and goal-setting. 🔹 Future Goals for Chain Reaction – Insights into the foundation’s ambitious targets for 2025 and the events shaping the next chapter. 👤 About Michael Byrom Michael Byrom is a highly regarded legal consultant with over four decades of experience in commercial, corporate governance, and real estate law. A director of The Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation and Southern Cross Soloists Ltd, Michael brings his expertise and leadership to organizations that make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Since its founding in 2007, Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation has raised over $44 million for children's charities, supporting more than 50 organizations across Australia. The foundation continues to connect business leaders with meaningful philanthropy through high-endurance cycling events, fostering a culture of giving, leadership, and community impact. 🎧 Tune In Discover how Michael Byrom and Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation are redefining corporate philanthropy through endurance cycling. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your network! 🔗 Follow Us 🌐 Website: www.panopticsolutions.com 📍 LinkedIn: Panoptic Solutions 📧 Email: [email protected] #Philanthropy #CorporateLeadership #EnduranceCycling #Fundraising #ChainReactionChallenge #ExecutiveNetworking #Resilience

Guest: Steve Bernard, CFE - LinkedIn Advisor / Board Appointments: International SOS, Metro One, Prescient Formerly the Executive Vice President for Protection at Sony Pictures Entertainment. In this episode, Stevan Bernard, a globally recognized security expert with nearly five decades of experience, shares his incredible journey from leading global security operations at Sony Pictures Entertainment to establishing Bernard Global, LLC. Stevan reflects on his personal health challenges, his commitment to mentoring the next generation, and the wisdom he has gained through navigating security risks across the globe. Listeners will discover how resilience, integrity, and purpose have shaped his life and career, offering powerful lessons for anyone seeking to lead with impact and navigate challenges with grace. Key Takeaways Overcoming Challenges: Stevan discusses his personal health battles, revealing how adversity strengthened his leadership and commitment to helping others. Building a Legacy: His passion for mentoring the next generation of security professionals, rooted in integrity and a vision for a safer world. Lessons from the Field: Stories from his global security operations and the insights gained from managing crises and mitigating risks in diverse environments. Purpose-Driven Leadership: Why integrity is the foundation of impactful leadership and how it shapes meaningful mentorship. 👤 About Stevan Bernard Stevan Bernard brings nearly five decades of experience in security across government and private sectors. As the former Executive Vice President of Global Protection Services at Sony Pictures Entertainment, Stevan led security operations in over 50 countries, overseeing global threat management, cybersecurity, and crisis response. Currently, as CEO of Bernard Global, LLC, he provides advisory services on corporate security, crisis preparedness, leadership, and risk mitigation. Recognized by esteemed organizations such as the CIA and FBI, Stevan remains a respected thought leader, dedicated to inspiring the next generation of security professionals. 🎧 Tune In Listen to Stevan’s inspiring journey and gain insights into leadership, resilience, and the evolving world of security. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your network! 🔗 Follow Us Website: www.panopticsolutions.com LinkedIn: Panoptic Solutions Email: [email protected] #ExecutiveProtection #Leadership #CorporateSecurity #Resilience #Mentorship #RiskManagement

In this episode, we sit down with Shane Cavagnino, a former military man to now a farmer in Tassie. Topics and Key Mentions Shane’s transition from an intense military career to life on a farm in Tasmania. Mental health challenges, particularly for veterans, and how Shane is managing his own mental health journey. Early life struggles, including bullying and career pivots, that shaped Shane’s resilience. Memorable moments and lessons from Shane’s Special Forces training, deployments, and leadership. Shane’s involvement in Panoptic Solutions and experiences in executive protection and private security. 5 Key Quotes from Shane “There’s no cookie-cutter solution for everyone in the military transitioning to civilian life.” “When I joined the military, I found a sense of purpose—it became my identity.” “I’ve got a problem, and I’m working through it. That’s the accountability I owe myself and those around me.” “Moving to Tasmania was like starting fresh, but I realized I needed a plan to truly work on myself.” “For me, this journey is about being the best version of myself for my family, that’s what really matters now.” Theme The theme of this episode is resilience, identity, and transformation. Shane’s journey through military life, private security, and personal development highlights how challenges can be confronted head-on with self-reflection, a strong support network, and dedication to mental health. He discusses how to integrate intense life experiences into a balanced, purpose-driven life. What the Listener Will Get Listeners will gain insights into the mental health struggles faced by veterans and how critical it is to seek support and build a life outside of high-pressure careers. Shane provides a firsthand account of how resilience, self-awareness, and vulnerability are essential not only for military success but for personal well-being in civilian life. This episode encourages others to look beyond identity shaped by careers and to focus on the broader purpose. Shane's Bio Shane Cavagnino is a qualified Australian Special forces operator with 18 years of experience in combat operations, counter terrorism and protection of Australia’s high-ranking government and military officials. Shane Cavagnino holds several academic achievements including; Diploma of Security and Risk Management, Diploma of Project Management and various other tertiary certificates. Shane Cavagnino served with distinction prior to discharging from the Australian Defence Force with almost 18 years’ service. Shane Cavagnino completed Special Forces Selection in 2011 has become qualified and an instructor in a variety of special operations skill-sets including close protection, advanced close quarters combat, tactical driving, combat medicine as an EMT and urban combat operations. Shane Cavagnino transferred to the Active Reserves in 2020 where he still maintains a reserve commitment instructing in various skill sets supporting the special forces training school. Shane Cavagnino has conducted training and combat operations both domestically and internationally in countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, United Arabs Emirates, East Timor, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Jordan, United Stated and has protected high profile clientele including, The Prime Minister of Australia, Chief of Australian Army, Chief of Australian Defence force, Australian Minister of Defence, private families and high profile celebrities. Shane Cavagnino has received the following awards and distinctions: Infantry Combat Badge Australian Active Service Medal Australian Service Medal Australian Operational Service medal middle east Counter Terrorism/ Special Recovery Clasp Australian Defence Medal Returned from Active Service Badge Meritorious Unit Citation Special Operations Task Group Afghanistan Medal In his spare time Shane enjoys training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and spending time outdoors with his wife and three children. CONTACT US Facebook Linkedin X (Formally Twitter) Website Email