The Security Circle
Yolanda Hamblen (Yoyo) 194 episodes Nov 11, 2026
The Security Circle is a podcast from IFPOD produced for IFPO, the International Foundation for Protection Officers. It is described as the very first security podcast from the organisation. The show supports frontline security professionals with learning and development. It also highlights mental health and wellbeing initiatives within the security industry.
Episodes
EP 203: He Never Asked Me for Money. I Offered. Why Police Find It Hard To Find The Scam with Beth Hylands
Send us Fan MailPodcast SummaryEP 203: He Never Asked Me for Money. I Offered. Why Police Find It Hard To Find The Scam.“If he asks me for money, I’m gonna feel really uncomfortable.” But he really never did. And so I offered.Beth Hylands was looking at houses on a lake and sending him pictures of engagement rings. Then he told her he’d been locked out of his bank account while overseas. When she
EP 202 | Inside Intersec 2027: Big Ideas, Powerful Connections and Your Next Opportunity
Send us Fan MailEP 202 | Inside Intersec 2027: Big Ideas, Powerful Connections and Your Next OpportunityWith Nathan Waugh, Portfolio Director, and Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne, Group Managing Editor at Hand MediaWhat if your next big opportunity starts with a conversation you hadn’t planned to have?A new connection. A better answer to a stubborn security challenge. A technology demonstration that change
EP 201 Her Story - Part 2 Who Protects Women from the People Paid to Protect?
Send us Fan MailHER STORY, PART 2: Who Protects Women from the People Paid to Protect?A shorter skirt. A lower neckline. A quieter voice. Is this really the career advice women in security should be getting?In Episode 201 of the Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda and Debs share three anonymous accounts that challenge the industry to look hard at its own behaviour.One woman describes discovering a ma
EP 200 **A Podcast Special** Her Story- Part 1
Send us Fan MailEP 200: HER STORY — Her Stories, Heard at Last | Part OneContent advisory: This episode contains personal accounts of sexual harassment, discrimination, inappropriate workplace conduct and explicit language. Contributors' identities have been protected, and the accounts represent their personal experiences and recollections.Three extraordinary women. Stories that have waited f
EP 199: Inside the Mind of a Traitor — Former CIA Officer Bill Costanza (Author of Treason, Terrorism and Betrayal)
Send us Fan MailWhat makes someone cross the line from loyalty to betrayal—and how do they justify it to themselves?This week on The Security Circle, Yoyo welcomes former CIA operations officer Bill Costanza for a fascinating journey into the psychology of treason, terrorism and betrayal.Drawing on 25EP 199: Inside the Mind of a Traitor — Former CIA Officer Bill Costanza years in the CIA and his b
EP 198: Limbs in the Loch — The Clues That Caught a Killer, with Former Police Detective Alan Cotton
Send us Fan MailEP 198: Limbs in the Loch — The Clues That Caught a Killer, with Former Police Detective Alan CottonHow do detectives turn fragments of evidence into a case that catches a killer?In this gripping episode of The Security Circle, Yoyo welcomes former police detective Alan Cotton, who worked on the investigation into the murder of Barry Wallace, known as the Limbs in the Loch case.Ala
EP 197: When War Doesn’t Look Like War — Dr John Pennell, Former Senior US Diplomat, Explains Grey Zone Warfare
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when war doesn’t look like war?In EP 197 of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda welcomes Dr John Pennell, former senior US diplomat, for a revealing conversation about grey zone warfare—and how deception, disinformation, cyber threats and sabotage shape conflict beyond the conventional battlefield.John began his Foreign Service career on 10 September 2001. His second
EP 196: Ant Examines My Phone — The Hidden Risks Inside Our Everyday Apps with Ant Davis Security Awareness, Instagram Influencer & AI Enablement Practitioner
Send us Fan MailEP 196: Ant Examines My Phone — The Hidden Risks Inside Our Everyday AppsWhat do WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, Waze, dating apps, QR codes and fitness trackers really know about us?In this highly engaging episode of The Security Circle, Yolanda is joined by Cyber Security Awareness and AI Enablement Practitioner Ant Davis to examine the technology we use every day—often without givi
EP 195: The Gentle Art of Leadership, Why Gentle Leaders Create the Greatest Impact with Brian Donovan Executive Coach
Send us Fan MailEP 195: The Gentle Art of Leadership, Why Gentle Leaders Create the Greatest ImpactWhat if the strongest leaders are not the loudest people in the room?In this episode of The Security Circle, Yoyo welcomes globally recognised executive coach and two-time author Brian Donovan for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, influence and the human qualities that enable people to perf
EP 194: Beyond Wellbeing — The Workplace’s Role in Suicide Prevention with Christine Clark Award Winning Trainer, Mental Health & Suicide First Aid BS30480
Send us Fan MailEP 194: Beyond Wellbeing — The Workplace’s Role in Suicide PreventionSuicide prevention is not only a personal or public-health issue—it is also a workplace responsibility.In this profoundly important episode of The Security Circle, Yoyo is joined by Christine Clark to explore the vital role that employers, leaders and colleagues can play in recognising when someone may be struggli
EP 193: How a Former Spy Turns Contacts into Relationships That Matter: with Julian Fisher Former British Intelligence Officer and Author of Think Like a Spy
Send us Fan MailEP 193: How a Former Spy Turns Contacts into Relationships That Matter with Julian FisherFormer spy, acclaimed author and returning guest Julian Fisher is back on The Security Circle—and he has unfinished business.Julian’s first appearance remains one of the five most-downloaded episodes in the history of the podcast. This time, he returns to take the ideas behind Think Like a Spy
EP 192: Forged at Sandhurst — A Life of Intelligence, Service and Purpose with Fiona Galbraith British Military Intelligence Veteran
Send us Fan Mail“Where we should make law is where society can’t regulate itself.”EP 192: Forged at Sandhurst — A Life of Intelligence, Service and Purpose with Fiona GalbraithFiona Galbraith is an extraordinary woman whose life has been shaped by service, courage and an enduring commitment to developing others.Commissioned from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1995, Fiona served for 25 yea
EP 191: 'You Have a Talent Recognition Problem', The Leadership Cost of Misreading Talent with Award Winning CISO and Author of "Stop Misreading Talent": by Jason Stockinger
Send us Fan MailWhat if the biggest talent problem in your organisation isn't a shortage of great people — but your ability to recognise them?In EP 191 of The Security Circle Podcast, Yoyo sits down with Jason Stockinger Award Winning CISO and author of Stop Misreading Talent: How to Lead Corporate, Veteran, and Neurodivergent Talent into High-Performing Teams for a fascinating conversation a
EP 190: "The Chainsaw Is Already on the Legal Ladder" with Quentin Solt, AI, Futurist & Senior Lawyer, Strategic Advisor on Legal Tech & AI Ethics and Compliance
Send us Fan MailEP 190: The Chainsaw Is Already on the Legal Ladder with Quentin Solt“Who has more experience, the internet or a single individual lawyer?”That question tells you almost everything you need to know about this extraordinary conversation with lawyer, investor and provocative thinker Quentin Salt.Quentin doesn't believe AI is simply going to make lawyers more efficient. His predi
EP 189: The Trust Advantage – How Influence Beats Authority with Nathan Mills, Global Head of Security for Brinks Inc
Send us Fan MailPodcast Summary🎙 EP 189: The Trust Advantage – How Influence Beats AuthorityWhat separates good security leaders from truly exceptional ones?In this thought-provoking conversation, Nathan Mills, Global Head of Security at Brinks, shares a leadership philosophy built not on authority, but on trust, influence and curiosity. From technical surveillance countermeasures and diplomatic s
EP 188: A LEGO Episode - "Protecting the World's Imagination" with Perry Curtis, Senior Security Manager - Global - Security Excellence Centre at LEGO
Send us Fan MailEP 188: Protecting the World's ImaginationWhat does it take to protect one of the world's most iconic brands?In this episode of The Security Circle Podcast, I sit down with Perry Curtis, Senior Security Manager at LEGO, for a conversation that goes far beyond bricks and minifigures.We explore how security protects creativity without getting in its way, why trust is embedd
EP 187: The Cost of Trust with Debbie Fox, Cyber Fraud: Author, Speaker, Survivor, Advocate
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a successful, intelligent and independent professional becomes the target of an organised criminal network?In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda welcomes fraud survivor, author and cyber fraud advocate Debbie Fox to share the extraordinary story of how an online relationship turned into a sophisticated romanc
EP 186: The Crime That Steals Consent—From Men and Women: with Dawn Dines Founder of 'Stamp Out Spiking'
Send us Fan MailEP 186: The Crime That Steals Consent—From Men and WomenReleased on International Spiking Awareness Day, this powerful episode of The Security Circle Podcast tackles one of society's most misunderstood and underreported crimes.Yolanda sits down with Dawn Dines, founder of Stamp Out Spiking, whose remarkable twenty-year campaign has transformed public awareness of spiking and h
EP 185: Before You Deploy AI... Listen to This with Don Morrow Founder, Podcast Host, AI Program Advisor, 5X Award Winner, SJA Influencer, SSN Emerging Leader Under 40, LSA Top40 Thought Leader
Send us Fan MailIn Episode 185 of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda Hamblen welcomes back cyber security advisor, entrepreneur and AI strategist Don Morrow for an eye-opening conversation that moves beyond the hype and tackles the questions every business leader should be asking before deploying AI.From the rapid emergence of advanced AI models such as Mythos and Fable 5 to the realities of AI
EP 184: The Board Said "Cut Costs". The CISO Asked for More… And Got It. With Coach Jennifer Selby-Long and Flutter CISO Billy O'Brien
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ EP 184: The Board Said "Cut Costs." The CISO Asked for More… And Got It.With Jennifer Selby-Long and Flutter CISO Billy O'BrienPodcast DescriptionWhat do you do when the business is cutting budgets, but your security programme needs more investment, not less?That's exactly the challenge faced by Flutter CISO Billy O'Brien in his first CISO role. Instead
EP 183: The Day Seeing Stopped Believing, with Tom Vazdar Cybersecurity Expert, AI Governance Specialist and CEO of Riskoria
Send us Fan MailWhen AI Learns to Lie: Trust, Deepfakes and the Fight for Reality with Tom VazdarArtificial intelligence is evolving faster than any technology we have seen before, but are we truly prepared for the risks that come with it?In Episode 183, returning guest Tom Vazdar, cybersecurity expert, AI governance specialist and CEO of Riskoria, joins Yoyo for a fascinating and, at times, sober
EP 182: Every CEO Has a Plan Until Someone Targets Their Family, with Sherelle Blackwell Commercial Director at Rock Security Solutions
Send us Fan Mail"You are literally there for them in their lowest and most vulnerable moments.""You are letting someone into the most intimate parts of your life — your home, your work, your family. There has to be trust there."Executive protection is often misunderstood.Popular culture paints a picture of dark sunglasses, earpieces, and imposing figures standing between a VIP
EP 181: Operating in the Space Between Panic and Hope: Dr Matt Todd, Hostage and Crisis Negotiator
Send us Fan MailPodcast Summary – EP 181 | The Return of Dr Matt ToddSome conversations stay with you long after the microphones switch off. Others quietly change the trajectory of an entire podcast.When Dr Matt Todd first joined The Security Circle Podcast back in Episode 113, listeners around the world connected with something extraordinary. It wasn't just the stories from a former hostage
EP 180: Russia Wants You Angry: A Spy's Warning to the West with Sean Wiswesser Russian Espionage & Security Expert and Former CIA Senior Operations Officer
Send us Fan MailPodcast Summary🎙️ EP 180: Russia Wants You Angry: A Spy's Warning to the WestWhat if the greatest threat facing Western democracies isn't a missile, a tank, or even a cyberattack?What if it's distrust?This week on The Security Circle Podcast, I sit down with former CIA case officer and Russian intelligence specialist Sean Wisswesser to explore the hidden battlefield
EP 179 The Future of Fraud: 'There Is a Scam for Everyone', with Becky Holmes Author of "Keanu Reeves Is Not In Love With You"
Send us Fan MailPodcast SummaryEP 178 The Future of Fraud: There Is a Scam for Everyone with Becky HolmesThis week on The Security Circle Podcast, we welcome back fraud expert, author, and social engineering commentator Becky Holmes for a gripping conversation about the rapidly evolving world of deception, manipulation, and digital trust.Following the success of her bestselling book Keanu Reeves I
EP 178 From Costa Rica to Complexity Theory: Rethinking Modern Security with Erik D. Erikson
Send us Fan MailPodcast SummaryFrom Costa Rica’s escalating violence and drug trafficking routes to complexity theory, semiotics, cultural anthropology, and the psychology of human behaviour — this week’s episode of The Security Circle Podcast goes far beyond traditional security conversations.Joining me is Erik D. Erikson, a Costa Rica-based security professional, trainer, coach, and systems thin
EP 177 From Space Missions to Security Missions with Bruce McIndoe Founder, iJET/WorldAware & Top 40 Global Thought Leader in Life Safety 2024/25
Send us Fan MailThis week on The Security Circle Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with one of the most fascinating minds in modern security and operational resilience — Bruce McIndoe.Bruce’s career journey is extraordinary. From working in astrophysics and NASA missions, through intelligence operations supporting military environments where decisions could mean life or death, to pioneering
EP 176 AI Is Smarter Than Most Companies Are Ready For Because Its Just Too Good: with Dr Paul Dongha PhD, Head of Responsible AI and AI Strategy, NatWest Group and Jaci Badenhorst Lead, for NatWest AI Digital Enabler Platform
Send us Fan MailPodcast SummaryPaul reflects on his extraordinary journey researching AI agents nearly 30 years ago — long before the world was paying attention — while Jaci shares practical insights into how organisations are struggling to balance innovation with control.Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future problem. It is already shaping how businesses operate, how decisions are made, ho
EP 175 Your Smart Home is Watching You: AI, Surveillance & the Cost of Convenience with Elizabeth Parks President & CMO of Parks Associates
Send us Fan MailEpisode SummaryIn Episode 175 of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda (Yoyo) Hamblen is joined by Elizabeth Parks, President and Chief Marketing Officer of Parks Associates and fellow 2025 Life Safety Alliance winner, for a fascinating deep dive into the realities of our hyperconnected world.From smart homes and surveillance tech to AI companions and the hidden risks of convenience
EP 174 Ransomware Nation: Why Business Is Still Getting Punched in the Face with Jamie MacColl Senior Research Fellow in Cyber and Tech at Royal United Services Institute
Send us Fan MailEP 174 Ransomware Nation: Why Business Is Still Getting Punched in the Face with Jamie MacCollRansomware is no longer “just an IT problem.” It is a national security threat, an economic threat, and a direct threat to business survival.In this explosive episode of The Security Circle, Yolanda interviews cybercrime expert Jamie MacColl, whose recent appearance on BBC Panorama put the
EP 173 Outwitting Manipulation: The 13 Power Moves of Dark Psychology with Lena Sisco Former DOW Interrogator and Elicitation and Human Behavior Expert
Send us Fan MailPodcast SummaryIn this powerful episode of The Security Circle Podcast, we welcome back Lena Sisco to explore her latest work, The 13 Power Moves of Dark Psychology—and what it really means to face manipulation head-on.Drawing from her experience as a former Department of Defense interrogator, Lena breaks down the subtle and often invisible tactics used by narcissists, manipulators
EP 172 Warhead - How the Brain Shapes War and War Shapes the Brain with Dr Nicholas Wright Neuroscientist and Advisor to the Pentagon Joint Staff and the UK Cabinet Office
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Podcast SummaryIn this episode of The Security Circle Podcast, we are joined by Nicholas Wright, neuroscientist, former Pentagon advisor, and author of Warhead: How the Brain Shapes War and War Shapes the Brain.Nicholas brings a rare perspective that connects neuroscience, human behaviour, and global conflict—exploring how the most powerful weapon in any war is not technology, b
EP 171 “When AI Learns You Better Than You Know Yourself” with Eva Benn Principal Microsoft Security, TEDx Speaker, Multi-Award Winning Cybersecurity Leader
Send us Fan MailGet in Touch! Eva’s Socials:https://www.linkedin.com/in/evabenn/www.evabenn.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@evabennofficialhttps://www.instagram.com/evabennofficial/https://www.tiktok.com/@evabennofficialBio:Eva Benn is a Principal Security Program Manager for the Microsoft Security and Response center. Eva has spent more of her security in red teaming and penetration testing, both as
EP 170 Frontlines: From Disease Outbreaks to Bushfires in Australia. Risk Looks Different When You’re Standing In It with Dr Carl Gibson
Send us Fan Mail“We don’t rise to the plan. We fall back on experience — and that’s where the real gap is.”Dr Carl Gibson’s career is nothing short of extraordinary — a journey that spans science, national security, aviation, government strategy, academia, and frontline emergency response.In this episode, Carl takes us from his early beginnings in the north of England, through military service as
EP 169 Why Smart People Fall for Romance Scams — And Why It’s Not Their Fault. Its Manipulation at Scale with Anna Rowe Founder of 'Catch the Catfish'
Send us Fan MailSummaryThis week on The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda sits down with Anna Rowe, founder of Catch the Catfish and co-founder of LoveSaid, to expose the hidden reality of romance fraud.What starts as connection quickly becomes manipulation.From love bombing and trauma bonding to financial exploitation and psychological control, Anna shares her personal experience and the patterns
EP 168 'Why Is Security by Design Still an Afterthought?' with Pablo Breuer Ph.D. Former Director US Special Operations Command
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Why Is Security by Design Still an Afterthought?The Security Circle Podcast with Pablo BreuerSecurity leaders have been talking about “security by design” for years. The principle is simple: build security into systems, technology, and processes from the very beginning — not bolt it on once the damage is already done.So why does it still so often arrive too late?In this episode
EP 167 Michelle Russell CEO of the SIA with The SIA Update: What’s Changing in 2026 (And Why It Matters)
Send us Fan MailThe SIA Update: What’s Changing in 2026 (And Why It Matters)The regulatory landscape of UK security is shifting — and 2026 could be a defining year.In this exclusive return to The Security Circle, Michelle Russell, CEO of the Security Industry Authority (SIA), shares a major update on the direction of travel for the regulator and the wider industry.From a landmark move under the Se
EP 166 “Leading the Security Institute: Power, Pressure, and the Responsibility of Standards” with CEO Sarah Austerberry and Chair Julie Nel
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Podcast SummaryThe Security Institute: Standards, Leadership, and the Future of the Professionwith Sarah Austerberry (CEO) and Julie Nel (Chair)In this episode of the Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda Hamblen is joined by Sarah Austerberry, CEO of the Security Institute, and Julie Nel, Chair of the Institute, for a candid discussion about professional standards, leadership under
EP 165 The War We’re Already In: Intelligence, Identity, and the Fight for Critical Thinking with Gustav Otto Former Department of Defense
Send us Fan Mail🎙 Podcast SummaryThe War We’re Already In: Intelligence, Identity, and the Fight for Critical ThinkingIn this episode of The Security Circle Podcast, Yoyo sits down with Dr. Gustav A. Otto — an internationally recognised national security, defence, and strategic intelligence leader with more than 30 years of experience across HUMINT, counterintelligence, defence operations, and int
EP 164 "Beyond the Trophy: How Security Awards Shape a Global Standard" with Professor Martin Gill
Send us Fan Mail“A credible award doesn’t celebrate popularity — it recognises provable impact.”Summary🎙️ "Beyond the Trophy: How Security Awards Shape a Global Standard" with Professor Martin GillWhat does a security award really represent?In this powerful episode of the Security Circle Podcast, Yoyo Hamblen sits down with Professor Martin Gill, founder of the Outstanding Security Perfo
EP 163 The Risk of Being Human: Why Trust, Psychology, and People Still Matter in Security with Deb Anderson, Gigi Agassini and Kehkashan Dadwani
Send us Fan MailEpisode SummaryIn this special episode of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen is joined by three outstanding women in security — Gigi Agassini, Kehkashan Dadwani and Deb Anderson — to explore a subject that sits at the heart of modern risk management: The Risk of Being Human.Originally presented at GSX, this conversation examines how rapid technological change, cons
EP 162 Guardrails, Justice, and Accountability in a Digital Age with Dean Armstrong KC King's Counsel (Barrister), Experienced Litigator, Chambers & Partners No.1 Silk for Cryptoassets 2025
Send us Fan MailPodcast SummaryIn this episode of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen is joined by Dean Armstrong KC, one of the UK’s leading barristers at the intersection of law, technology, and accountability.Dean brings rare clarity to some of the most complex and consequential issues facing society today — from AI regulation and agentic systems, to crypto and blockchain litiga
EP 161 Mind Sovereignty: A Former CIA Deputy Director on Trust, Deepfakes, and the New 'Trust' Battlefield
Send us Fan MailEpisode SummaryIn this episode of The Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen is joined by Jennifer Ewbanks, former Deputy Director of the CIA for Digital Innovation, for a wide-ranging and deeply human conversation about intelligence, trust, and the evolving nature of security.Drawing on more than three decades in human intelligence and senior leadership at the CIA, Jennif
EP 160 A Cops Story...'Shot 14 Times: Survival, Mind Discipline and Human Resilience' with Derrick McManus
Send us Fan Mail“I didn’t feel pain. I didn’t hear gunfire. I just thought: ‘Derek, you idiot — how can you be falling at a time like this?’” BIO*Shot 14 times with a high-powered rifle*Conscious and bleeding for 3 hours before rescue*30 seconds from death*Returned to elite sniper and counter-terrorism duties 2 years later*Zero anxiety, depression, or PTSD or ongoing therapyWhen you, your team or
EP 159 Inside the Polygraph Room: What the Body Reveals When Words Lie with Alan Saquella
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Episode SummaryInside the Polygraph Room: What the Body Reveals When Words Liewith Alan Saquella“A polygraph isn’t a lie detector — it’s a physiological monitor. The body reacts long before words do.”— Alan SaquellaPolygraph tests are often misunderstood — portrayed as simple “lie detectors” with jerking needles and dramatic reveals. In this episode, polygraph examiner and inves
EP 158 A Continent in Motion: Eva Nolle on Security, Risk, and the Future of Security Risk in Africa
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Episode SummaryA Continent in Motion: Eva Noelle on Security, Risk, and the Future of Security Risk in AfricaIn this powerful year-end conversation, Eva Noelle brings rare depth, context, and realism to what it truly means to operate in security, intelligence, and risk across the African continent.Drawing on extensive experience working across more than 50 African countries, Eva
EP 157 The Messy Middle of Leadership: Lessons from Scaling Pyramids with Chris Stitt
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Security Circle Podcast, Host Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen is joined by Chris Stitt, a highly respected security and leadership practitioner whose career spans crisis management, international security operations, and complex bureaucratic environments.Chris brings rare credibility to the leadership conversation — not from theory, but from lived experience in high-p
EP 156 “It’s Not in the Manual: Michael Gips on Writing the Leadership Book Security Needs”
Send us Fan MailIt’s Not in the Manual: Michael Gips on Writing the Leadership Book Security NeededIn this powerful and deeply human episode of The Security Circle Podcast, host Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen is joined by one of the most respected voices in global security leadership, Michael Gips, to explore why the security profession needed this leadership book—and why it needed it now.Michael shares t
EP 155 Turning Adversity Into Advantage: Jeff Slotnick on Health, Hope & Leadership
Send us Fan MailPodcast SummaryIn this standout episode of The Security Circle, security legend Jeff Slotnick returns for his second appearance, bringing extraordinary depth, wisdom, and vulnerability. Fresh from a life-changing battle with cancer — which he faced with discipline, positivity, and what he jokingly calls “giving cancer a healthy body” — Jeff reflects on resilience not as a buzzword
EP 154 When Sport, Strategy & Security Collide. Security Isn’t a Solo Sport — And Why That Needs to Change with Paul Harvey
Send us Fan Mail🎧 Podcast Summary — When Sport, Strategy & Security CollideSecurity Isn’t a Solo Sport — And Why That Needs to ChangeIn this powerful episode of The Security Circle, Yolanda “Yoyo” Hamblen sits down with security heavyweight Paul Harvey to explore the unexpected intersections between elite sport, leadership, crisis management, and modern protective security.Paul shares his earl
EP 153 No Tech Just Cyber - Why Defensive Security Isn’t Enough Anymore with Terry Cutler International Award-Winning Cybersecurity Expert
Send us Fan Mail🎧 Episode Summary — “Why Defensive Security Isn’t Enough Anymore”In this episode, cybersecurity author, keynote speaker and ethical hacker Terry Cutler joins The Security Circle to unpack the harsh realities of today’s cyber threat landscape. Terry discusses the shift organisations are experiencing as budgets tighten while attacks accelerate, and shares real-world examples of ranso
EP 152 90,000 Heartbeats, One Security Chief: Wembley Stadium- Behind the Scenes, with Steve McGrath
Send us Fan MailIn this powerful and engaging episode, YoYo sits down with Steve McGrath, the Head of Security at Wembley Stadium, to explore what it really takes to protect one of the world’s most iconic venues. With a background in counter terrorism policing and years of operational leadership, Steve shares an inside look into managing security for events that bring in up to 120,000 people at a
EP 151 Inside the Hiring Mind: What Security Recruiters Really Look For With Kathy Lavinder
Send us Fan MailIn Conversation with Kathy LavinderIn this powerful and wide-ranging episode, Yolanda “YoYo” Hamblen sits down with Kathy Lavinder, one of the most respected and experienced global recruiters in the physical security sector. With 25 years at the helm of her specialist search firm, Kathy brings clarity, honesty, and deep industry insight into the evolving world of security hiring.Ka
EP 150 AI Changes the Game — but Humans Still Write the Rules with Julian Fisher Espionage Specialist and Gavin Stone Former British Intelligence
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Episode SummaryAI changes the game — but humans still write the ruleswith Julian Fisher & Gavin StoneIn this powerful episode of The Security Circle, former British intelligence specialists Julian Fisher and Gavin Stone pull back the curtain on the shifting landscape of espionage, AI, and global security.We explore the critical truth shaping modern intelligence work:Technolo
EP 149 Saboteurs in the Boardroom: The Hidden Forces Behind Your Decisions and The Future of Human-Centric Leadership with Jennifer Selby-Long Founder & CEO Selby LLC
Send us Fan Mail“Predictability doesn’t make you weak — it’s what frees your brain to lead with strength. The more predictability you build, the more resilient your people become.” JSL.🎙️ Podcast Summary: “Rewiring Resilience: From Surviving to Thriving”In this powerful episode of The Security Circle, Yolanda “YoYo” Hamblen sits down with Jennifer Selby Long, an executive coach and transformation
EP 148 Sky High Standards: Protecting Brand, People and Planes with Nigel Williams Global Head of Security for Virgin Atlantic
Send us Fan Mail“In aviation security, there are no true competitors — just allies in the air, all working toward the same goal: keeping people safe.”Nigel Williams — Global Head of Security, Virgin AtlanticNigel has extensive intelligence, investigative, and corporate security experience, having worked in both the public and private sectors, including business intelligence, UK counterterrorism an
EP 147 Dr Grant Van Ulbrich: Change Breaks You. Transformation Builds You.
Send us Fan MailBio:Dr Grant Van Ulbrich is an internationally recognised pioneer in Personal Change Management and the founder of Scared So What®, the world’s first personal change model, methodology, and app. His work empowers individuals and organisations to embrace transformation through leadership development, executive coaching, and scalable technology.A Forbes, Wall Street, Entrepreneur-fea
EP 146 "No Titles. Just Leadership" with Guy Mathias & Philip Anthony of Dardan Security
Send us Fan Mail“Leadership isn’t about the badge on your chest or the title on your card — it’s about the respect you earn and the trust you build.”Episode Summary: No Titles, Just LeadershipIn this candid conversation, Guy and Phil dive deep into what real leadership looks like in the security industry. They strip away the labels and titles to focus on the qualities that truly inspire trust and
EP 145 Dr Jen Fraser, Author of 'The Bullied Brain' Returns with the Eagerly Anticipated 'The Gaslit Brain'. If a Counterterrorism Expert Can be Gaslit… So Can You
Send us Fan MailJennifer Fraser is an author, award-winning educator, and consultant. She has a PhD in Comparative Literature and her books have always focused on how we have the capacity to transform ourselves. We can go from being readers to writers of culture. We can reject society's demands that we suppress our emotions and instead come alive with them. We can question the bullying dynami
EP 144 The Security Circle Big Scoop: Sir David Omand Former Director of GCHQ on Intelligence, Spies, Strategy & Survival
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Podcast Summary — The Security Circle Big Scoop: Sir David OmandIn this episode, I sit down with Sir David Omand, one of the UK’s most accomplished intelligence leaders, for a rare deep dive into a career at the very heart of national security.From Director of GCHQ to UK Security & Intelligence Coordinator reporting directly to the Prime Minister, Sir David has shaped strate
EP 143 “Fierce, Resilient, Unstoppable: Connie Moorhead’s Journey in Security”
Send us Fan Mail“Resilience isn’t about never falling — it’s about getting up one more time than you fall.”🎙️ Episode SummaryIn this inspiring episode of the Security Circle Podcast, Yolanda sits down with Connie Moorehead, CEO of the CMOOR Group, trailblazer, and lifelong mentor in the security industry. Connie opens up about her journey from being underestimated and dismissed — even called “suga
EP 142 Across Borders & Behind the Truth, Global Eyes, Local Impact: Mike LaCorte on Global Investigations
Send us Fan Mail“In private investigation, every case is different — but the human stories, the scams, the vulnerabilities, remind us why raising professional standards has never mattered more.”BIOWith over 25 years of experience in the private sector, I am an accomplished international investigator and business leader with a proven track record in managing complex international investigations. My
EP 141 Beyond Observe & Report, You Don’t Hire Journalists: Reframing the Role of Security Officers to Predict, Prevent, Protect with Amotz Brandez, CEO Chameleon Associates
Send us Fan MailBIOAMOTZ BRANDESAmotz is the CEO of Chameleon Group, first established in 1992. The company’s reach and reputation has grown and now supports a wide range of clients seeking top rung security consulting and training across the globe.Amotz began his career in an Israeli Defense Forces Special Forces Reconnaissance Unit, leading recon and intelligence gathering teams on complex miss
EP 140 Why Labour Exploitation is Security’s Unseen Threat – Paul Fullwood, Former Director of Inspections and Enforcement of the Security Industry Authority, Speaks
Send us Fan MailCareerPaul joined the SIA in 2001 after a 33-year career first in HM Armed Forces and then in the Police Service.Paul retired from policing in 2020 as Assistant Chief Constable (Specialist Policing Services) for Bedfordshire Police and the Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire constabularies, with responsibility for major crime, armed policing, counter-terrorism, and specialist policing
EP 139 Hard Landings, Stronger Standings: Matt Hill’s Journey and Leadership Lessons from the Paras to Softer Landings in Security
Send us Fan Mail“From the drop zone to the boardroom — Matt Hill reveals how hard landings and soldier grit forge stronger, smarter security leaders.” BIOMatt Hill is a former Parachute Regiment Officer, Farmer, Martial Artist, and teacher of Systema — the natural movement based Russian Martial art blending health and real work self defence skills. From the Systema Academy in Wiltshire he has tau
EP 138 April Chavez CEO Driven Livin' LLC with "Your Brain, the First Line of Defense”
Send us Fan Mail"In this Security Circle episode, former police officer and wellness advocate April Chavez shares her journey from frontline policing to championing resilience, mental health, and self-improvement. Drawing on real-life experiences, April reveals how trauma impacts the mind and body, the power of self-awareness, and why changing yourself can transform the world around you. Her
EP 137 From Warships to Luxury Hotels – Darren Carter on Service & Security
Send us Fan MailBIODarren Carter – Vice Chair, ASIS UK Chapter 208 | Director of Security, Luxury HospitalityDarren Carter is a highly respected security leader whose career spans over three decades across military, corporate, and luxury hospitality sectors. Beginning his professional journey in the Royal Navy, Darren developed a foundation of discipline, resilience, and operational excellence dur
EP 136 Hiring the Enemy? Is Your applicant a Trojan Horse? Former CIA Operative: Nick Gicinto Explains How a Bad Hire can Literally be Hiring your Hacker
Send us Fan Mail🔐 Top 5 Things This Podcast Unpacks🚩 The Rise of Fake Identities in Remote Hiring Nation-state actors — particularly from North Korea — are using stolen or fabricated identities to secure legitimate remote IT roles inside Western organisations, bypassing traditional recruitment filters.🎭 Deepfakes and Digital Deception From AI-generated avatars to fake GitHub profiles and forged do
EP 135 From the Shadows to the Spotlight: Hayley Elvins on Life After Intelligence
Send us Fan Mail"I spent 10 years living in the shadows — now I stand in the light to lead, and to show others it’s possible."— Hayley Elvins on the journey from covert roles to visible leadershipEpisode Summary:In this episode of The Security Circle, we sit down with Hayley Elvins — Managing Director of Sloan Risk Group, Director at the Security Institute, and former British intelligenc
EP 134 From Cartels to Corporates: Meth Labs, Microsoft & Moral Dilemmas with Christopher Macolini DEA Veteran and Security Professional
Send us Fan Mail"It wasn’t just about drugs — it was about removing violence from communities. That’s when you knew you were really doing good."– Christopher MacoliniBIOChristopher T. Macolini is a recognized expert in investigations and security throughout Latin America, bringing nearly three decades of combined law enforcement and private-sector experience in the region. For the past 2
EP 133 "No Smoke, No Mirrors": The Truth About Executive Protection - Direct, Honest, and on Point with Mac Segals Anti-Fluff Vibe
Send us Fan MailSummary🎙️ Podcast Bio Summary – Episode 133: Mac SegalIn this episode of The Security Circle, Yolanda is joined by Mac Segal, Founder and CEO of AHNA Group, for an unfiltered look at the world of executive protection. From South Africa to Israel to the corporate frontlines, Mac shares the lessons behind building a global security business based on trust, agility, and integrity.Toge
EP 132 Nicky Perfect: International Hostage & Crisis Negotiator, "How One Conversation Can Change Everything"
Send us Fan MailNicky is an international hostage and crisis negotiator turned world renowned trainer and speaker. She spent 31 years as a Metropolitan police officer and the last 10 of those years as an international hostage and crisis negotiator. Nicky worked on the elite New Scotland Yard Hostage and Crisis Negotiation Unit. She has travelled the world teaching negotiation and working with Her
EP 131 Tim Wenzel on "Targeted: CEOs, Culture, and the Fallout We Didn't Predict'
Send us Fan Mail🔑 Top Talking Points: “Targeted: CEOs, Culture, and the Fallout We Didn't Predict”The Assassination of Brian Thompson– Overview of the attack, public reaction, and why so little is known about the case – The transformation of the attacker into a disturbing “folk hero” among some Gen Z communitiesExecutive Risk in a Post-COVID World– The new vulnerability landscape for C-suite
EP 130 The Hidden Muscle Every Leader Needs: Resilience with Rick Cudworth
Send us Fan Mail“Resilience doesn’t stop you falling off the bike — it helps you get back on.”– Rick CudworthIn this powerful episode of The Security Circle, host Yolanda is joined by organizational resilience expert Rick Cudworth, whose career spans engineering, technology, strategic risk, and leadership across some of the most complex environments — from chemical plants to the London 2012 Olympi
EP 129 Fearless and On the Record: Mark Ledlow’s Mindset Mission The Security Circle Meets The Fearless Mindset” — a Clash of two Podcast Powerhouses
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Podcast Summary:In this dynamic episode, Yolanda welcomes fellow podcast host and security entrepreneur Mark Ledlow, founder of Fearless Mindset and CEO of Ledlow Security Group. From humble beginnings in the Marine Corps to leading a thriving executive protection firm, Mark shares his unfiltered journey into the world of security, resilience, and digital storytelling. Together,
EP 127 Secrets for Sale: Inside the Shadowy World of Corporate Espionage with former British Intelligence Officer Gavin Stone
Send us Fan Mail✍️ Short Podcast Summary:In this gripping episode of The Security Circle, former British intelligence officer Gavin Stone lifts the veil on the murky world of corporate espionage. From railgun leaks in Korea to bugs in boardrooms, Gavin shares shocking real-world tactics used to infiltrate companies, manipulate insiders, and extract secrets. With wit, wisdom, and a touch of dry hum
EP 128 "The Silent Language of Danger: Decoding Nonverbal Threats" with Gary Simpson Former Royal Marine Commando and Non-Verbal Communications Expert
Send us Fan Mail🕵️♂️ From war zones to waiting rooms — how behavioural cues, atmospheric shifts, and body language reveal hidden threats and emotions.🔍 What do pickpockets, Taliban operatives, and salespeople have in common? The answer lies in "rehearsal behaviour" — and Gary teaches you how to spot it.💬 Mirroring, microexpressions, and emotional leakage — decode the invisible signals p
EP 126 'Built for the Worst Day': A Life in Crisis Leadership with Craig Foster Chairman of The Asia Crisis & Security Group
Send us Fan MailBIOCraig Foster : Head of Corporate Real Estate, Safety & Security, Crisis Management & Resilience at Grab Craig is a member of Grab’s senior management team and leads real estate & facilities, safety & security, and business continuity teams that help keep Grabbers safe and productive. Craig has lived and worked in Asia since 1986 and has over thirty years of leade
EP 125 Stu Bratt - 'Tough Enough to Talk' for Mental Health Week
Send us Fan Mail🎧 Episode Summary: “Tough Enough to Talk”In this deeply moving and candid conversation, host Yolanda Hamblen sits down with Stu Bratt—a military veteran, engineer, and founder of Tough Enough to Care, a mental health charity on a mission to break the stigma around men’s mental wellbeing. Stu shares his personal journey through loss, emotional growth, and ultimately, transformation
EP 124 From Guantanamo to the Boardroom: Lena Sisco the no. 11 Body Language Expert: Building Trust During Interrogation, Not Fear
Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Podcast Summary:In this compelling episode, Yolanda sits down with Lena Sisco — former Department of Defense interrogator, bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and body language expert. Lena shares her extraordinary and unexpected journey from archaeology to military intelligence, revealing the mental and emotional endurance it takes to interrogate high-value detainees, including a
