Talk’n TRM

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

Robin Jones

In this episode of Talk'n TRM, Bex is joined by Robin Jones, the founder and former CEO of MySafeBase.
With an illustrious background spanning over 20 years in the UK Military and USDOD Close Protection, Robin is a seasoned expert in global security risk management. Having navigated both corporate and hostile environments, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.
In this engaging conversation, Robin shares the inspiration behind MySafeBase, his innovative technology designed to revolutionise risk management. He discusses the shortcomings of working in silos and the importance of seamless communication and information sharing in ensuring effective risk mitigation.
Robin elaborates on the critical aspect of response time in travel risk management, emphasising that it's not just about answering a call but taking swift and decisive action when travellers encounter issues.
 
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
 
Contact Robin:
https://www.mysafebase.com/ 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinmjones77/
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

Mum Knows Best, an Arrest in Hawaii: The Traveller Files

Welcome back to Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where we unravel the diverse narratives of travel and glean valuable insights. In this episode, Jennifer Milton shares a humorous yet cautionary tale of her son's journey to Hawaii, a lesson in cultural differences that took an unexpected turn.
Jennifer had forewarned her son about the stark contrast in attitudes towards public urination between Europe, where it's commonly accepted, and America, where it can lead to legal trouble. However, the allure of Hawaii's surf was perhaps too distracting, and her son found himself on the wrong side of the law.
Our insightful host, Bex Deadman, reflects on the crux of this comedic misadventure—the importance of communication and preparedness in unfamiliar territories. Bex highlights the necessity of checking in regularly, having contingency plans in place, and being aware of cultural norms to avoid unintended legal complications.
The episode delves into the broader theme of cultural sensitivity and adaptation. Bex emphasises the significance of understanding and respecting the customs of the places we visit, ensuring a smoother and trouble-free travel experience. The mishap becomes a reminder that even in seemingly lighthearted situations, cultural awareness plays a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of global travel.
 
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

Birger Oldorff

Join host Bex Deadman on another insightful episode of Talk'n TRM, as she sits down with Birger Oldorff, a seasoned Business Developer with a deep-rooted passion for Travel Risk Management (TRM).
 
With nearly his entire career dedicated to TRM and related industries, Birger brings a wealth of experience to the table. Having worked with renowned companies like International SOS and Global Excel, he's travelled the globe, both for work and as an expatriate, gaining invaluable insights into travel security, assistance, and insurance.
 
A German national now settled in Switzerland, Birger founded Oldorff Consulting, where he assists providers and insurers with market entry, sales tactics, growth strategies, and product development. Simultaneously, he provides corporate clients with expert guidance in procuring and implementing TRM solutions.
 
In this episode, Birger and Bex delve into travel risk management from an insurance perspective. Birger shares his childhood experiences in Congo, where makeshift plans for safety involved plastic boats—a stark reminder of the rudimentary approach still prevalent in some organisations today.
 
Driven by his desire to make the world a better place, Birger emphasises the importance of effective communication in TRM. He encourages collaboration with travel risk managers, experts, and seeking help when needed.
 
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
 
Contact Birger:Email: birger.oldorff@oldorff-consulting
Web: www.oldorff-consulting.com
Linkedin:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/birger-oldorff/
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

Baleful Border, Russia to Kazakstan: The Traveller Files

Welcome to another episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where we unravel the tales of business travel and reflect on the lessons learned. In James Kington’s final story of the year, he takes us on a suspenseful border-crossing journey between Russia and Kazakhstan in the heart of winter.
As James recounts his experience flying into Russia, only to embark on a midnight mini-bus journey to Kazakhstan, the tension builds at the border. Confronted by a stern figure armed with a machine gun, James finds himself in a nerve-wracking situation as his passport is taken away, leaving him in uncertainty in the middle of the night.
Our host, Bex Deadman, reflects on the psychological impact of such border-crossing scenarios. Bex highlights how, in James's case, the unfamiliar process triggered panic, emphasising the importance of communication and knowledge-sharing among staff who have experienced similar trips. Had there been a prior exchange of information, James might have navigated the situation with greater ease.
The episode delves into the significance of peer-to-peer knowledge transfer within organisations, especially when it comes to unique travel experiences. Bex explores how sharing insights and tips can alleviate anxiety and uncertainty, fostering a more informed and resilient community of business travellers.
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
 

Patrick Kane

Join host Bex Deadman for an insightful episode of Talk'n TRM, as she sits down with Patrick Kane, Director of Security at a US corporation with global operations.
 
With over 20 years of experience in private-sector corporate security, Patrick brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He is heavily focused on developing and implementing mitigation measures to support a highly mobile global workforce and multiple travellers. Patrick's expertise includes pre-travel risk assessments, coordinating secure transportation, and journey management.
 
In addition to his corporate role, Patrick is actively involved in professional organizations. He serves as the Chair of the ASIS International Santa Barbara Ventura Chapter #21 and is the President of the Corporate Executive Protection Leadership Council (CEPLC). He also spearheaded the creation of a Travel Risk Working Group within ASIS International.
 
In this episode, Patrick shares his insights into travel risk management, highlighting its importance in everyday travel, not just in high-risk locations. He reflects on his journey into the security industry, recounting a high school trip to Mexico that inspired his career path. Patrick's passion lies in helping and supporting people, especially those who may lack their own experiences to draw upon.
Don't miss this engaging conversation as Patrick Kane sheds light on the evolving landscape of travel risk management and the crucial role it plays in ensuring the safety and security of travellers worldwide.
 
Contact Bex:
bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com
 
Contact Patrick:patrick.kane.cpp@gmail.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickkane2/
Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

Life-Altering Seconds in China: The Traveller Files

Welcome to a reflective episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where we delve into the personal experiences that shape our understanding of travel risk management. In this episode, Mike Causey shares a poignant story that unfolded during his time living in China—a moment that made him acutely aware of how life can change in the blink of an eye.
Mike recounts a cycling incident during his daily commute to work. A simple act—a car door opening unexpectedly in front of him—turned into a life-altering event. The absence of a helmet, a common practice in China, magnified the impact of the incident.
Our host, Bex Deadman, reflects on the cultural nuances embedded in Mike's experience. Bex explores the influence of cultural norms on behavior, noting how the commonality of not wearing helmets in China contributed to Mike's choice. This cultural piece becomes a crucial aspect of understanding and managing travel risks, emphasising the importance of adapting practices to local customs.
The episode delves into the broader theme of life's unpredictability. Bex reflects on the sudden speed at which circumstances can change, even in the seemingly mundane aspects of daily life like a routine commute. This serves as a poignant reminder that travel risk management is not solely about the extraordinary events but also the everyday moments that can have lasting consequences.
 
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