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On this episode of Managing Your Perimeter™, we’re joined by Paul Timm, PSP. Paul is the author of School Security: How to Build and Strengthen a School Safety Program, and a security professional who has conducted nearly 2,500 facility assessments, for a conversation about what security professionals see that the rest of us often walk right past. Drawing from decades of experience, Paul breaks down what he looks for when he first arrives at a facility: from vehicle access and perimeter vulnerabilities to doors, visitor management, daily routines, and the human behaviors that can undermine even good security systems. We also discuss why some of the most meaningful security improvements are low- or no-cost, how organizations can create greater situational awareness without creating fear, and why security has to evolve alongside the environments it protects. We also look at the importance of collaboration and consensus in physical security, how AI and emerging technology can support security professionals, and why keeping an open mind is essential to staying relevant in an evolving industry. In this episode, we discuss: What a Security Expert Sees That You Don’t Paul walks through what he notices when approaching a facility, why he watches how people actually enter and move through a space, and the vulnerabilities that can easily become part of the everyday routine. The “Mayberry Mindset” & Building a Culture of Awareness Why routine can make people less observant, how organizations can make security part of the culture, and why awareness doesn’t have to mean fear. Collaboration, AI & The Future of Physical Security Paul shares what he wishes more leaders understood about security, why collaboration and consensus matter, and how emerging technology can help security professionals improve the way they protect people and spaces. You can find Paul Timm on LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultimmpsp You can find Arcus Group at  ArcusGrp.com

On this episode of Managing Your Perimeter™, we're joined once again by security consultant and former Secret Service agent Jason Russell for our annual Back-to-School Security episode. As students head back to classrooms, college campuses and sporting events, Jason shares practical guidance for parents, security professionals and organizational leaders navigating today's evolving security landscape. From situational awareness and campus safety to lessons learned from the FIFA World Cup, we explore how strong security planning begins long before the first day of school. We also discuss why leadership must drive security culture from the top, and what schools, venues and businesses can learn from large-scale events. Segments include: 00:00 — Back to School: What Every Parent Should Be Asking How parents can evaluate campus safety, prepare students for independence and encourage better situational awareness before move-in day. 14:08 — What Major Events Can Teach Every Organization Lessons the FIFA World Cup, one of the world's largest sporting events, balancing guest experience with safety, and how those lessons apply to schools, stadiums and community events. 26:55 — Why Security is Worth The Investment (Plus Jason's back to school check list) Why security is a leadership decision, the cost of cutting corners, and why the most successful security operations are often the ones no one notices. You can find Jason Russell at www.secprotects.com You can find Arcus Group at www.ArcusGrp.com

On this episode of Managing Your Perimeter™, we’re joined by Dr. Jazma Parker, Security Director and Facility Security Officer at Digiflight Incorporated, for a conversation on insider threats, security clearances, and what it really takes to protect organizations from the inside out. Drawing from her experience in federal investigations, intelligence support, and corporate security, Dr. Parker breaks down how insider threats actually develop, why security clearances are rooted in trust—not perfection—and what leaders often misunderstand about risk. We also discuss social media hygiene, the unintended consequences of oversharing, and why the future of personnel security still requires the human factor, even in the age of AI. If you’ve ever wondered what creates a strong security culture—or how leadership, HR, IT, and security teams work together to protect people, information, and operations—this episode offers an insightful look behind the curtain. In this episode, we discuss: • What insider threats actually look like—and why they’re usually patterns, not isolated incidents • The security clearance process and the truth about the SF-86 • Why honesty matters more than perfection in personnel vetting • Social media hygiene, LinkedIn risks, and digital oversharing • The role of AI in threat detection—and why human judgment still matters • What strong leadership looks like in personnel security and risk management Segments include: 7:46 — Insider Threats: The Patterns Leaders Miss What insider threats actually look like and how they develop. 16:54 — Security Clearances, Integrity & The Human Factor Demystifying security clearances and why honesty matters. 34:02 — AI, Leadership & The Future of Personnel Security Emerging risks, social media hygiene, and what strong security leadership requires. You can find Dr. Jazma Parker at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jazmaparker/ You can find the Journal of Strategic Security at https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/jss/vol19/iss2/1/ You can find Arcus Group at  ArcusGrp.com

In this conversation, Ed Prokop—former LAPD officer, Air Force OSI agent, and leader in autonomous policing innovation—breaks down the development of the nation’s first autonomous police vehicle, Pug. He shares how decades in law enforcement shaped his approach to persistent gaps in coverage, and how AI-driven patrol is being used to extend presence, increase deterrence, and support understaffed agencies. The conversation moves from what this technology actually is, to how it operates in real-world environments, and ultimately to the bigger questions around trust, privacy, and the future of security. From Law Enforcement to Autonomous Policing Timestamp: 00:00 How Ed Prokop’s 30+ year career across LAPD, federal training, and military service led to building an AI-powered patrol vehicle. Background, the origin of Pug, and what autonomous policing actually means in practice—not a replacement for officers, but a new layer of operational support. How Pug Works: Deterrence, AI, and Real-World Deployment Timestamp: 03:54 What makes this system different from traditional surveillance or robotics. Persistent patrol, delivering up to 17x more coverage, AI-powered sensors, real-time environmental awareness, and how the vehicle functions as a force multiplier in active security environments. Trust, Ethics, and the Future of AI in Security Timestamp: 13:03 The human side of deploying AI in public spaces. Public perception, privacy concerns, data ownership, built-in guardrails, and why human oversight remains essential as this technology becomes more integrated into everyday security operations. You can learn more about Ed’s work at http://policinglab.org You can explore Pug here http://pugvehicle.com You can learn more about our work at ArcusGrp.com This episode is sponsored by https://www.f1rstfence.com/

In this conversation, Adam Stockwell, the Chief Security Officer for the Milwaukee Bucks, shares insights into the complexities of security in the sports industry. He discusses his transition from a career in the Secret Service to managing security for a major sports team, emphasizing the importance of designing security features into new venues, the challenges of managing large crowds, and the collaboration with local law enforcement. Stockwell also highlights the significance of training and empowering his security staff, as well as the evolving nature of team security, especially in light of recent events. From Secret Service to the NBA Timestamp: 00:40 How former presidential protection agent, Adam Stockwell, became the head of security for an NBA franchise. Career path, transition from federal service to private-sector sports security, and building a new arena from the ground up. The Security You Never See Timestamp: 07:01 The hidden layers of protection built into modern arenas. Environmental design, blast analysis, bollards, surveillance, and proactive security planning. When the Crowd Is Bigger Than the Plan Timestamp: 22:14 What happens when 100,000 people show up to a space built for 10,000. Championship crowds, perimeter failures, crowd behavior, and lessons learned from massive gatherings. Protecting Billion-Dollar Teams on the Road Timestamp: 46:55 Why NBA travel now looks more like executive protection than team logistics. Player protection, intelligence, travel risks, and how team security has evolved. You can learn more about the Bucks at https://www.nba.com/bucks/ You can connect with Adam here https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-stockwell-b3285a32/ You can learn more about our work at ArcusGrp.com

Security rarely fails because of a lack of tools, it fails when leaders stop anticipating what’s next. In this episode of Managing Your Perimeter, hosts Anna Reahl, P.J. O’Neil, and Mel Lukens sit down with Chief Cathy Lanier, Chief Security Officer of the National Football League and former Chief of Police for Washington, D.C. Drawing on more than three decades of leadership across local law enforcement, homeland security, and global mass-gathering events, Chief Lanier unpacks what it truly means to stay “always on” in today’s security environment. From Super Bowls and NFL Drafts drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees, to international games operating under entirely different laws, cultures, and threat profiles, she explains why complacency is one of the most dangerous risks facing modern security operations. Throughout the conversation, Lanier shares how strategic planning has evolved from five-year cycles to continuous, real-time recalibration: and why relationships, trust, and unified command matter just as much as technology. She offers a candid look at intelligence operations, game integrity, cybersecurity, AI-driven surveillance, and the critical role of fast, validated information in preventing incidents before they escalate. This episode also explores leadership under pressure: setting clear expectations, maintaining accountability, and building teams capable of operating decisively when seconds matter. Whether overseeing stadium security, managing global intelligence streams, or coordinating with federal, state, and local partners, Lanier emphasizes that effective protection depends on foresight, collaboration, and the discipline to never assume yesterday’s solutions will work tomorrow. For security professionals, event operators, and organizational leaders alike, this conversation is a masterclass in adaptive leadership, and a reminder that safety is built long before doors open. You can learn more about Arcus Group at arcusgrp.com

Organizations have more channels to communicate with the world than ever before, but with flexibility comes increased security exposure for vital, mission critical communications. In this episode we’re joined by Joe Ruiz from WITCOM an innovator in the field of secure communications for military and commercial customers.  We’ll be talking about how to protect IP, executive communications, and generally keep your organization’s voice active -- and secure.  Joe Ruiz brings a truly unique perspective to the field of communications security. As a former Presidential Communications Officer, Presidential Response Officer, and primary Communicator aboard Air Force One, Joe supported Presidents Bush and Obama. These days, Joe is founder and president of WITCOM, offering his communications expertise to disaster recovery, emergency relocation, and continuity of government and continuity of operations. WITCOMWITCOM is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).ARCUS Group LLCARCUS specializes in solving the immense logistical challenges that follow disasters and events.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

As the recent tragic events in Houston show us, unruly crowds can be dangerous, even deadly. How do you create a safe space for a huge gathering of people, each with different goals, as well as different emotional and mental states?  How do you build out a temporary space that is easy to navigate in moments of crisis? How do you deal with a restive crowd?   We don’t have all the answers about why Houston’s crowd reacted this way.  At ARCUS we work with the production teams and Local Law Enforcement to create plans just as they did in Houston.  Our hope is everyone can execute the plan accordingly in time of crisis.

The most visible components of security are personnel and hardware, but those are just aspects of a larger story. The right mindset is also a huge contributing factor to successful security outcomes. For this podcast episode, we’re joined by Jason Russell, founder and CEO of SEC, Inc. SEC provides high level training in various areas of emergency response. Jason is going to be telling us about the different techniques he teaches schools and companies when considering their security protocols. We’ll also discusses how to deconflict in times of emergency. We look forward to you joining us.    D.A.M. FenceReplacing Bike Rack - One Panel At A TimeSecure Education ConsultantsSEC has partnered with thousands of leaders across the country to share comprehensive and executableDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of Managing Your Perimeter, Anna Reahl, P.J. O’Neil and Mel Lukens talk with Sharon Lee, Founder and President of High Road, a Nashville-based entertainment trucking company that keeps major tours moving across North America. Sharon shares the realities of touring logistics, the human side of leadership, and how trucking intersects with perimeter security more than most people realize. From pre-tour planning to middle-of-the-night breakdowns, she highlights the coordination, communication, and culture required to keep large events safe and on schedule. Topics we cover: How touring logistics and perimeter security overlap Why strong team culture matters more than equipment How High Road vets and trains drivers for safety and consistency What “Tour Up” support looks like for newer tours Mental health resources in the live-event industry Real stories from the road—breakdowns, border crossings, and fast pivots “It’s never about the truck. It’s always about the people.” —Sharon Lee Learn more about High Road at  https://www.highroadusa.com/  Find Eccho Live at  https://www.eccholive.com/ Learn more about Arcus Group at  www.arcusgrp.com

Security often lags one step behind, chasing the last emergency instead of anticipating the next. In this episode of Managing Your Perimeter, Anna Reahl and P.J. O’Neil sit down with Jason Russell — former Secret Service agent and founder of multiple security companies — to talk about the unique challenges facing schools and campuses today. From the everyday emergencies schools encounter, to the overlooked risks of after-hours events and extracurriculars, Jason shares why complacency is the biggest threat of all. He breaks down how one-size-fits-all fixes waste resources, why “cheap security” is never really safe, and how initiatives like Greek Shield are reshaping campus safety. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or security professional, this conversation is a reminder that protecting students requires more than gadgets and mandates — it demands foresight, planning, and a willingness to challenge complacency. You can find Jason’s work at  secprotects.com And Arcus group at  arcusgrp.com

In this episode of Managing Your Perimeter, we talk with Dan Donovan, founder of Stratoscope, whose team has secured everything from the Super Bowl and Formula One to global tech conferences. Dan shares how strategic event security is less about metal detectors and more about protecting brands, reputations, and guest experiences. Find more of Dan's work at https://stratoscope.com/ https://ingressotek.com/ https://stratosk9.com/ And Arcus Group at  https://ArcusGrp.com

In this episode of Managing Your Perimeter, hosts Anna Reahl and PJ O'Neil speak with Uliana Barbysheva and Konstantin Turuntcev of Event Concept Consultancy, security experts behind some of the world’s largest sporting events—including the FIFA World Cups in Russia and Qatar. Together, they unpack what it takes to secure a global event, from invisible security and integrated planning to managing fan cultures and post-COVID crowd behavior. The conversation touches on the 4S model (Safety, Security, Service, Stakeholders), real-world lessons, and the complex challenges facing the 2026 World Cup across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Whether you're in operations, law enforcement, or event logistics, this episode is a masterclass in proactive, people-centered security. Konstantin Turuntcev is a global events professional with over a decade of experience in crowd management, spectator services, and security. He has delivered high-impact results for events including the Sochi 2014 Olympic Games, Formula 1 in Sochi, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Konstantin develops and implements crowd strategies, operational plans, and staffing systems that keep complex events running smoothly on the world stage. Uliana Barbysheva is a global security strategist with over 14 years of experience operating in high-stakes, high-visibility environments. She played a pivotal role in developing the requirements, methodology, and operational documentation for stadium security at the two most recent FIFA World Cups—building and leading international teams to deliver on the world’s largest sporting stage.  Together, their approach blends precision planning with on-the-ground adaptability, making them sought-after experts in global event security operations. You can learn more about their work at:  http://eventconcept.biz  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/eventconceptconsultancy

In this episode of Managing Your Perimeter, hosts Anna Reahl and PJ O'Neil sit down with Tiffany Eagles, a former FBI behavioral profiler with over 20 years of experience in law enforcement. Tiffany breaks down the principles of behavioral threat assessment and how organizations—from schools to corporations—can identify and intervene before violence occurs. She explains the “pathway to violence,” the power of pattern recognition, and why invisible, integrated security systems are more effective than reactive ones. The episode also explores why people hesitate to report concerns, how HR plays a role in insider threat prevention, and what a proactive security culture really looks like. This conversation is essential listening for anyone responsible for workplace safety or organizational leadership. Tiffany Eagles spent twenty years as an FBI Special Agent investigating a variety of federal violations. Additionally, she was an Instructor in the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit where she created and delivered a course on violence and behavior to senior law enforcement officials. She became a certified behavioral profiler in the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit and assisted law enforcement agencies with complex crimes against adults. Currently, she is a lead contractor with Secure Environment Consultants and delivers training on personality and behavior relating to indicators of violence. Additionally, she provides guidance on creating and successfully implementing behavioral threat assessment programs for schools and the private sector.

Welcome to 7-Year Itch: Reflecting On Success and Lessons Learned, a special episode of Managing Your Perimeter where we explore the transformative journey of entrepreneurship, career milestones, and personal growth. In this episode, we reflect on the challenges, victories, and key lessons learned over seven years in business, offering valuable insights from industry leaders, innovators, and everyday trailblazers. Tune in for powerful stories, actionable tips, and reflections to inspire you on your own path to success.