Talk’n TRM

Joël Marier, Mike Blakey & Julian Penney

In this special extended episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by three expert guests — Joël Marier, Mike Blakey, and Julian Penney — to explore the newly released ISO 31031: Managing Risks for Youth and School Trips.
All three guests played a key role in the development of this important international standard. As members of ISO Working Group 9 (WG9), Joël, Mike, and Julian were part of a team of more than 30 global experts who contributed comments, suggestions, and expertise to improve and shape the final standard.
In this episode, the group discusses the origins of ISO 31031, why it was needed, and how it supports those involved in planning and managing youth and school travel. 
Drawing on their own experiences in education, travel safety, and standards development, Joël, Mike, and Julian share their insights on what makes ISO 31031 so significant and how it sets a new benchmark for safety in youth and school travel.
Links
TC262:
https://committee.iso.org/home/tc262
 
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
Contact Joël:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo%C3%ABl-marier/ 
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

April's Story Part 3: Expert Advice Carolyn Pearson

Welcome to the final part of our 3-part series, April’s Story, on Talk’n TRM: The Traveller Files!
In Part 1, we shared April’s real-life travel story and left you with a difficult choice to consider. In Part 2, I was joined by Jessica Inglis as we discussed how we might feel in April’s position, and what decisions we would have made. Now, in Part 3, we bring everything together.
I’m joined by the incredible Carolyn Pearson—CEO and Founder of maiden-voyage.com—a true pioneer in Inclusive Travel Security. Carolyn’s work focuses on empowering individuals, corporations, and travel providers to make travel safer and more inclusive for everyone, no matter their background, identity, or circumstances.
In this episode, Carolyn brings her wealth of experience and insight to offer practical advice on how to handle complex and high-stress travel situations like April’s. We discuss the importance of empathy, preparedness, and inclusive risk management in real-world travel.
If you wish to share your own travel story anonymously,  please contact Bex at bex@8phaseconsulting.com.
8Phase Consulting - https://8phaseconsulting.com/
Bex Deadman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/
Assent Risk Management - www.assentriskmanagement.co.uk
 
#TravelRiskManagement #InclusiveTravel #BusinessTravel #TalknTRM #AprilStory #MaidenVoyage #TravelSecurity #Podcast #WomenInSecurity #DutyOfCare

Bryan Conant

In this episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Bryan Conant, a seasoned safety and security professional with over a decade of experience across personal security, GSOC operations, intelligence analytics, building security, and travel risk management.
Now working within the travel industry, Bryan is pioneering a new business model focused on improving safety for leisure travellers. Combining his passion for travel and security, he is adapting ISO 31030 and ISO 31031 standards—typically applied to corporate travel risk management—into frameworks designed to protect non-corporate and leisure travellers.
Bryan shares his fascinating journey from the security industry into travel, highlighting the often-overlooked risks of leisure travel and the lack of contingency planning that many people neglect when organising holidays. He also discusses the knowledge gap surrounding security in leisure travel and the importance of incorporating practical safety measures.
Bryan also provides valuable insights and practical advice, offering his top tips on staying safe while travelling, whether for business or pleasure.
Join Bex and Bryan as they delve into how security practices can enhance the travel experience, empowering travellers to feel more confident and prepared wherever they go.
 
Podcast Links
Defensive driving video and interview with the driver
USA Smart Traveler Program
UK Traveler Alert Registration
 
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
 
Contact Bryan:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568564399936
https://www.foratravel.com/advisor/bryan-conant
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/
 
 

Stan Ayscue

In this episode of Talk'n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Stan Ayscue, a seasoned security professional with over 20 years of experience in international risk management and bespoke security consulting. Currently working with Exlog Global, a veteran-owned risk solutions provider, Stan draws on his extensive expertise to help clients mitigate risks and protect their people and assets.
Stan’s impressive career includes serving as an Airborne Team Leader in the 82nd Airborne Division at Ft. Bragg (now Fort Liberty), NC, and working across 25+ countries, including Pakistan, Ukraine, Nigeria, and Mexico. His areas of expertise range from journey management and intelligence to maritime security, covert investigations, and insider threat solutions.
Stan and Bex discuss how the travel risk management industry has evolved over the years, particularly in how people source information. Social media has transformed the way risks are assessed, but Stan emphasises the importance of focusing on the risk, not just the threat. He encourages critical thinking by asking questions such as “Yes, but what else?” and consistently challenging assumptions with “Why?”.
Stan also shares his unique perspective on the evolving security landscape, encouraging businesses and individuals to think critically and proactively about risk.
This episode is packed with expert insights on travel risk management, strategic thinking, and the importance of staying ahead in an ever-changing world.
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
 
Contact Stan:
Linkedin: 
Stan Ayscue | LinkedIn
Exlog Global Website:
Home | Exlog Global
Email:sayscue@exlog-global.com
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/
 
#TalknTRM #TravelRiskManagement #ISOStandards #SustainableTourism #YouthSafety #RiskManagement #Governance #InternationalStandards 

Joël Marier

In this episode of Talk'n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Joël Marier, a passionate advocate for safety, sustainability, and social impact. With extensive experience in social enterprise, strategic planning, risk management, and international standards development, Joël has dedicated his career to creating safer, more inclusive environments for vulnerable groups, including youth.
Joël shares his journey into the world of standards development, which began with a tragic news story about a young boy who lost his life during a canoeing trip. This event inspired him to take action, ensuring such incidents could be prevented in the future. His work then has since focused on international standards like ISO 31010 and ISO 31031, which aim to enhance risk management and travel safety.
With a career rooted in creating positive change, Joël emphasises the importance of proactive risk management, effective governance, and collaboration to drive innovation and safety in travel risk management.
 
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
 
Contact Joël:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo%C3%ABl-marier/ 
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/
 
#TalknTRM #TravelRiskManagement #ISOStandards #SustainableTourism #YouthSafety #RiskManagement #Governance #InternationalStandards 

April's Story: Part 2

Welcome back to Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files! This episode is Part 2 of our special 3-part series, April’s Story.
In Part 1, we shared April’s gripping travel story and left you with a choice: What would YOU do in her situation? Today, I’m joined by Jessica Inglis as we dive into how we would feel in April’s shoes and discuss the decisions we might have made. After reflecting on the possibilities, I’ll reveal what April actually did and how her choice shaped the outcome of her journey.
But the story doesn’t end here. Stick around for Part 3, where we’ll unpack the lessons learned from April’s experience and explore how her story can inform smarter travel risk management practices.
Don’t miss this engaging discussion that combines real-life stories, decision-making dilemmas, and practical insights for travellers everywhere.
 
Share your perspective with Bex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/
 
You can also read April's Story here: https://8phaseconsulting.com/aprils-story-talkn-trm-the-traveller-files/

Shaun Boulter

Join host Bex Deadman for another riveting episode of Talk'n TRM, as she sits down with Shaun Boulter, a seasoned security and crisis management expert with over 28 years of experience.
 
With a background in the British Military, Shaun brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as Global Head of Security and Operations at AXA Partners. His extensive experience spans various roles, including Head of Crisis and Security Management for a leading risk consultancy company based in Singapore, and managing the Security & Risk department for Perot systems in London.
 
In this episode, Shaun delves into the intricacies of corporate insurance, debunking common misconceptions. He emphasises that while insurance is vital, it doesn't save lives or provide immediate support during incidents. Shaun also sheds light on ISO 31030 and his efforts to help clients align with this standard, highlighting the importance of proper adherence.
 
Reflecting on his military background, Shaun shares his journey into civilian crisis management and travel risk management. He elucidates the differences between crisis management, assistance, and travel risk management, illustrating how they intertwine to ensure the safety and security of individuals and organisations.
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
 
Contact Shaun:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-boulter-318b4b/
https://www.axapartners.com/en
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

April's Story: What would you do?

This episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files brings you something a little different.
Titled April's Story: What Would You Do?, Bex reads a true account of April, a woman on a business trip faced with a difficult decision. But here’s the twist - she's not sharing the ending.
This is a new format for The Traveller Files episodes, and Bex is inviting you to be part of the story.
As you listen, put yourself in April’s shoes. What choice would you make? What factors would guide your decision? Once you’ve had time to reflect, we'd love to hear your thoughts.
Share your perspective with Bex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/
 
You can also read April's Story here: https://8phaseconsulting.com/aprils-story-talkn-trm-the-traveller-files/

Rob Westwood

Join host Bex Deadman for an insightful episode of Talk'n TRM, as she welcomes Rob Westwood, a seasoned expert with 40 years of experience in hospitality technology.
 
With a career spanning four decades, Rob Westwood has been at the forefront of hospitality technology, witnessing significant developments in operations and guest expectations. His expertise lies in data management, vendor integration, and navigating the complexities of General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) in the hospitality industry. Rob's extensive experience includes working with renowned hotel brands across EMEA and North America, offering valuable insights into technology adoption and data privacy.
 
In this episode, Bex and Rob delve into the intersection of hospitality and technology, shedding light on data protection and privacy concerns for travellers. Rob shares his wealth of knowledge on managing guest data within hotel technology stacks and the importance of ensuring compliance with GDPR regulations.
Drawing from his vast experience, Rob discusses the challenges posed by evolving technology and the critical need for travellers to safeguard their personal data. He highlights common misconceptions and offers practical advice on protecting sensitive information while on the go.
 
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
 
Contact Rob:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-westwood-09140612/
 
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

Outback Alone, Gap Year Gone Wrong

In this gripping episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, we hear Carolyn Pearson recount an astonishing tale of resilience and survival from her gap year in Australia. What started as a travel adventure with family friends took a shocking turn when Carolyn found herself and a friend abandoned in the harsh, isolated expanse of the Australian outback. With only her handbag and a bottle of water, Carolyn was picked up by a passing truck driver picked who took her to safety in Alice Springs. 
Our insightful host, Bex Deadman, reflects on Carolyn’s story, emphasising how much times have changed with the advancements in technology and communication. Bex explores how the limitations of the past amplified vulnerability, making contact with loved ones or seeking help much harder. She delves into the importance of modern travel safety practices, the essential knowledge of diffusing tense situations, and strategies to ensure personal safety when traveling solo.
 
Join us for another episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where each tale is a lesson, and every journey is a risk worth exploring. 
 
If you wish to share your own travel story anonymously,  please contact Bex at bex@8phaseconsulting.com.
 
8Phase Consulting - https://8phaseconsulting.com/
Bex Deadman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/
Assent Risk Management - www.assentriskmanagement.co.uk