The GSPG Podcast

September 11, 2001: Twenty-Five Years Later

On the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, host Ron Jacobus delivers a special message of remembrance from The GSPG Podcast. Rather than release a regular episode, we pause to honor the 2,977 people killed at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93; the first responders who gave their lives that day and in the years that followed from 9/11-related illnesses; and the military members who served during the Global War on Terror. Ron also reflects on the lasting connection between that generation of service and today’s security profession, where many veterans and first responders continue to serve in executive protection, security management, law enforcement, emergency management, and related fields. Twenty-five years later, September 11 remains deeply personal for many, while an entire generation now knows the attacks only through history. This special message is dedicated to remembrance, service, sacrifice, and our responsibility to never forget. For those who wish to observe the anniversary alongside the families of those we lost, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum will broadcast the 2026 25th Anniversary Commemoration live from the World Trade Center site in New York City. Watch the 2026 25th Anniversary Commemoration Live

Event Announcement: Texas Executive Protection Professional Los Angeles Pop-up Event

In this special announcement episode, host Ron Jacobus highlights the upcoming TEPP Los Angeles Pop-Up Event taking place on June 6, 2026, at the Sunset Marquis Hotel in West Hollywood, California. This event marks a significant milestone for Texas Executive Protection Professionals (TEPP) as it represents the organization’s first event outside the state of Texas and its first event in California. Designed for executive protection professionals and those working in industry-adjacent roles, the event provides an opportunity to network, exchange ideas, build relationships, and engage with professionals from across the protection, security, intelligence, investigations, and corporate risk management communities. Event Details: TEPP Los Angeles Pop-Up June 6, 2026 What time: 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM Sunset Marquis Hotel West Hollywood, California For more information about TEPP and the Los Angeles Pop-Up event, visit: https://www.texasepp.com

From Cop to Corporate: A Journey with Brian Tuskan

On this episode of The GSPG Podcast, host Ron Jacobus is joined by Brian Tuskan, a veteran security executive, advisor, and former Chief Security Officer at Microsoft and ServiceNow. The conversation explores his career journey from law enforcement into corporate security leadership, the challenges of building and scaling global security programs, and the evolution of modern security operations in complex environments. Brian also shares practical insights on leadership, accountability, and how organizations are adapting to emerging technologies, including AI, within enterprise security programs. This episode offers grounded perspective and actionable guidance for security leaders, corporate security professionals, and those transitioning from public sector roles into private industry. Listen on Podbean, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major platforms. Episode resources: Cop to Corporate Security & Things

Executive Protection Practioner Insights with Matt Anderton

On this episode of The GSPG Podcast, host Ron Jacobus is joined by Matt Anderton, an executive protection leader with over a decade of experience supporting executives, public figures, and corporate leadership across both domestic and international environments. The conversation explores Matt’s career progression from the Marine Corps into executive protection, including his experience leading teams, supporting global operations, and building disciplined, intelligence-driven protection programs. They discuss what defines an effective executive protection program, the importance of mentorship and accountability, and how professionals can operate with consistency in complex environments. A key focus of the episode is Matt’s practitioner-driven research on how executive protection programs define, measure, and communicate value in a field where success is often defined by prevention. The discussion highlights common challenges around KPIs, reporting, and aligning executive protection efforts with business objectives. This episode provides practical insight for executive protection practitioners, security leaders, and anyone responsible for building or managing protective programs. Note: Since recording, Matt has launched HAVN, a travel security application focused on improving situational awareness and supporting risk-informed decision-making for travelers and organizations. Please like and share this episode, follow The GSPG Podcast to stay current on future releases, and leave a review to support the show.

Protective Intelligence with Scott Stewart and Fred Burton

On this episode of The GSPG Podcast, host Ron Jacobus is joined by Scott Stewart and Fred Burton, two well-respected practitioners in protective intelligence, counterterrorism, and executive protection. The conversation explores their career journeys across public service and private sector intelligence leadership, the evolution of protective intelligence, and common gaps organizations face when integrating intelligence into executive protection and global travel risk management. Scott and Fred also discuss their book, The Protective Intelligence Advantage, and share practical insights on building effective, intelligence-led security programs. This episode offers grounded perspective and actionable guidance for security leaders, intelligence professionals, and executive protection practitioners. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, and other major platforms. Follow us on LinkedIn. Join the community on Patreon. Connect via email.

Journey Points: From Public Service to the Private Sector with Richard Cafege

On this episode of The GSPG Podcast, host Ron Jacobus is joined by Richard Cafege, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Global Security and Protection Group. In this conversation, Ron and Richard discuss Richard’s career spanning military service, law enforcement, and corporate security leadership. Topics include his time in the United States Marine Corps, 16 years with the Texas Department of Public Safety, and his transition into senior security roles within the energy sector. The discussion also covers executive protection, technical security operations, vulnerability assessments, and the practical challenges of building and leading security programs in complex operating environments. This episode provides a grounded look at career progression, leadership, and risk management from a practitioner’s perspective. As promised, we have dropped Eric Vento's information into the show notes for our listeners intersted in leveling up their resumes. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, and other major platforms. Follow us on LinkedIn. Join the community on Patreon. Connect via email.

We're Back: A Message from the Host

The GSPG Podcast is back. In this message to the audience, host Ron Jacobus explains the extended pause, reflects on key developments in executive protection and security management over the past year, and outlines what listeners can expect as Season 4 begins. The episode reinforces the importance of professionalism, fundamentals, and leadership in protective work, and introduces new ways listeners can engage with the show, including guest recommendations and community involvement. Tune in for Episode 1 of the GSPG Podcast on January 26th as we begin the next chapter of conversations on executive protection and security management. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, and other major platforms. Follow us on LinkedIn. Subscribe on Patreon. Connect via email.

Event Announcement: Bodyguards for Kids 2025

We’re sharing an incredible opportunity to learn from leading security experts while supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Bodyguards for Kids, a two-day virtual fundraising event, takes place on March 29th and 30th, 2025 and features 14 expert speakers covering key topics in executive protection and security management. This event is open to everyone in the security industry and beyond, and 100% of donations go directly to St. Jude to help children battling life-threatening illnesses. Event Details: Date: March 29-30, 2025 Minimum Donation to Attend: $50 Includes: Access to two full days of educational sessions and entry into a raffle with gear, books, and security-related scholarships Donate at least $50 to register for the event Sponsorship Opportunities Available: $250 minimum donation for individuals to be listed as event sponsors and $500 minimum donation for companies to be listed as sponsors. Search "Bodyguards for Kids" to find the event page on the St. Jude website. This event is for the kids. Let’s make a difference together! Don’t forget to subscribe to The GSPG Podcast and never miss another executive protection or security management conversation.

A Message From Our Team: Giveaway Winner Announcement

In this episode, we announce our very first giveaway winner—Glenn Davis! Using Rafflys, Glenn was randomly selected to receive a signed copy of "The Protected," generously donated by Michael Trott. Thanks to everyone for your continued support of the GSPG Podcast! We look forward to bringing you more valuable content and additional giveaway opportunities in the future!

A Message From Our Host: 2025 Giveaway Announcement

Our 2025 Giveaway Announcement: Michael (MT) Trott, our guest from Episode #1 and author of "The Protected", has generously contributed a signed copy of his work as the prize for our first giveaway. His book has received priase from the protective security community and from his former protectee, Central Intelligence Agency Director George Tenet, who stated, "Michael provides invaluable insights and intelligent perspectives into the world of personal protection.” Giveaway Details: ⏳ This giveaway will run from January 17th to January 31th. 📣 Our winner will be announced on February 3rd. 🎱 We will use Rafflys to randomly select our giveaway winner. Giveaway Entry Instructions: 1️⃣ Non-Followers: Simply follow The GSPG Podcast page on LinkedIn to be entered. 2️⃣ Current Followers: Like, share, or comment on our coresponding Linkedin post to be entered.

Behavioral Threat Assessment in Executive Protection and Corporate Security Programs with Jameson Ritter

On this episode of The GSPG Podcast, Ronald J. interviews Threatwise Global founder, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) Great Lakes Chapter President, and former UnitedHealth Group Global Threat assessment Program Lead Jameson Ritter. Jameson, a seasoned security professional with specialized experience developing security and workplace violence prevention programs, details the recent assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, and the significance of Behavioral Threat Assessment in executive protection and corporate security programs. Jameson additionally shares his experience volunteering as an Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) Chapter President and the value of this international organization for protection professionals and their violence prevention efforts. This GSPG Podcast episode was recorded on December 13, 2024.

Security Convergence, Leadership, and a Life Powered by Grit with Jared Oakden

On this episode of The GSPG Podcast, Ronald Jacobus interviews Jared Oakden, a corporate security leader, Dad of four, and Regional Security Strategist at Burns & McDonnell. Listen in as Jared shares his corporate security journey, passion for security convergence, and core values that guide his leadership style. Jared additionally shares his experience volunteering as an ASIS International Chapter Chair; and the value behind the ASIS Physical Security Professional (PSP) certification, Certified Protection Professional (CPP) certification, and IC2’s Certification in Cybersecurity for security practitioners.

Leveraging TEPP Networking Mixers with Michael Gonzales

On this episode, Global Security and Protection Group's Managing Director Ron Jacobus interviews Whataburger Brand Security Program Manager and Texas Executive Protection Professionals founder Michael J Gonzales. Listen in as Michael returns to the program to share all things Texas Executive Protection Professionals, the importance of networking for industry practitioners, and how past mixers have positively impacted individuals starting or enhancing their executive protection career. Register here for TEPP’s upcoming November 4.0 Mixer.

A Protector's Journey Through Public and Private Sector Protection with Allan Ring

On this episode, Global Security and Protection Group's Managing Director Ron Jacobus is joined by U.S. Army Veteran and Critical Security Solutions Founder Allan Ring. Allan shares his experience protecting the Secretary of Defense and other prominent military leaders, his selection as the Joint Special Operations Command's Director of Security, and eventual transition from public service protection to the private security industry. Allan shares his insights from a recent assignment protecting news crew members at the 2024 Republican and Democratic National Conventions. Allan highlights how mentorship, networking, and training with RL Oatman & Associates, Inc. and Lasorsa and Associates has positively impacted his professional journey. If you found this episode of the GSPG Podcast valuable, be sure to like, follow, and share it with others in the executive protection and security management field. You can find us on Spotify, Audible, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Until next time, stay safe.

American Diplomat: Diplomatic Security and Beyond with Alex Reinshagen

On this episode, Global Security and Protection Group's Managing Director Ron Jacobus is joined by former Supervisory Special Agent with the U.S. State Department's Diplomatic Security Service Supervisory Special Agent, current Viking Security CEO, and Author Alex Reinshagen. Listen as Alex shares his experience protecting U.S. Diplomats around the world, transition from public service to the private security industry, and his recently published memoir, American Diplomat: Surviving on the Frontlines of Diplomacy as a Foreign Service Special Agent.

A Protective Security Journey in Mental Resilience with Dr. Mary Beth Janke

Welcome to the Global Security and Protection Group podcast with your host, Ron Jacobus. In this episode, we dive deep into the protective security journey of Dr. Mary Beth Janke, a former Secret Service agent, private sector protector, and author of The Protector who has since transitioned into the field of forensic and clinical psychology. Dr. Janke shares her unique experiences from her upbringing in the Midwest to her time circumnavigating the globe in the protective security space. Discover how her childhood and family dynamics shaped her career, leading her to become a trailblazer in the male-dominated world of executive protection. Listen as Dr. Janke recounts her pivotal moments, including her unexpected transition from the Secret Service to the private sector and how she leveraged her skills to thrive in high-stakes environments. Learn about the mental health challenges faced by protectors and the evolving landscape of mental health support in the industry. Dr. Janke also discusses her current endeavors in mentoring, public speaking, and her innovative approach to building mental resilience through her five-day challenge. This episode is packed with insights, personal anecdotes, and practical advice for anyone in the security and protection field. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the resilience, adaptability, and continuous growth essential for success in both personal and professional life.

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Locks, Leaks, and Red Team Operations with Ana Aslanishvili

On this episode, Global Security and Protection Group's Managing Director Ron Jacobus is joined by security professional, Center for Advanced Red Teaming (CART) Board Member, Locks and Leaks Substack creator, and Pine Risk Management CEO Ana Aslanishvili. Listen in as Ana shares her experience and journey as a Red Team practitioner and highlights how her childhood impacted her situational awareness foundation and passion to help and protect others. You can catch Ana and her Red Team partner Shawn Abelson share their experiences, insights, and stories in person as they hit the securirty conference circuit later this year at Def Con in August and GSX in September.

From Blackwater to the Board of Executive Protection Professionals: A Protective Security Journey with James Cameron

On this episode, Global Security and Protection Group's Managing Director Ron Jacobus is joined by James Cameron, President and CEO of the Security Concepts Group, Chairman of the Board of Executive Protection Professionals, former Blackwater USA contractor and Triple Canopy WPPS Instructor. Listen in as James shares his professional journey from service in the U.S. Military to high-threat protection with both Blackwater USA and Triple Canopy, and current work with his own provide security company. James also shares about the upcoming 2024 BEPP Executive Security Operations Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Cheating Death: Life in and After the United States Secret Service with Kenneth Valentine

On this episode, Global Security and Protection Group's Managing Director Ron Jacobus is joined by Kenneth Valentine, a retired U.S. Secret Service Special Agent, current corporate security professional, and author of the forthcoming book, "Cheating Death: Three-Time Presidential Secret Service Agent Lives to Tell You How" set for release on April 16th, 2024. Listen in as Kenneth shares his professional journey to the U.S. Secret Service, his experinece as a Special Agent who served in both the pre-and-post 9/11 world, his transition to the private sector coporate security arena, and his board member work with Base Molecular Resonance Technologies, LLC, The WellHouse, and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

Leadership in Action from the LAPD to the IPSB Stage with Brian Bixler

On this episode, Global Security and Portection Group's Managing Director Ron Jacobus is joined by Ret. LAPD Captain and Foresight Security Consulting Chief Operations Officer Brian Bixler. Listen in as Brian recaps his professional journey in the LAPD, his transition from the public sector into the private sector, and his experience attending and speaking at the 2023 International Protrective Security Board Conference last year in Dallas, TX.