In this episode, host Mark Ledlow is joined by Phelim Rowe, an industry analyst, from the United Kingdom, diving deep into Phelim's journey in the security conference industry. The discussion covers various aspects of organizing and running conferences, the impact of COVID-19 on the industry, and the differences in conference culture between the US and Europe. Phelim also shares insights on how to handle adversity, the importance of creating valuable agendas, and his transition from public service to becoming a well-known conference producer. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in the security, business, and entertainment sectors.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Specialize in one industry rather than jumping between topics - builds credibility and deep understanding

• Ask layered questions to uncover real pain points, not surface-level answers

• Post-COVID conferences are thriving - more events, more attendance, but more selective spending

• US networking is transactional and fast; European networking emphasizes long-term professional relationships

• The US economy drives most international security work, especially from Silicon Valley clients

• Good conferences help the entire industry - when one fails, it hurts all events

QUOTES

• "I had 42 [job interviews] and I didn't get anything... If they're not asking for it, they don't want to know."
• "I call myself an analyst... you don't see me jumping between mother and baby Expo and infantry weapons."
• "What's keeping you up at night? Most people, the initial first thing they say is not correct... We need to peel back the layers."
• "If I met you for the first time at GSX... and then we continue our dialogue virtually... it's an extension."
• "People are spending money in ways that are reassuringly expensive. Oh, it cost me a hundred grand, so it must be better. No, you are paying their overheads."

Get to know more about Phelim Rowe through the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pr33jfhh/

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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In this episode, Mark Ledlow emphasizes the importance of building personal relationships within the executive protection industry, spotlighting the Texas-based TEPP event created by Mike Gonzalez. Mark shares insights on how such events foster trust and deeper connections beyond mere business transactions, illustrating his point with personal anecdotes about meeting various industry leaders and clients. Additionally, he talks about his podcast and new initiatives such as starting a chauffeur driving course and organizing networking events to give back to the industry. The narrative highlights the value of face-to-face interactions over social media networking and underscores the growing opportunities within Texas.

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to

https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/

or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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As we reflect on 2025, this episode pulls together the most important themes shaping the year ahead — from the rapid acceleration of AI and automation, to the evolving realities of security, leadership, and trust in an increasingly complex world.

What was once hidden behind the scenes is now accessible to everyone. AI has moved from the “Matrix” into daily workflows, forcing organizations to rethink efficiency, security, and human value. At the same time, rising geopolitical tension, information warfare, and emerging technologies like quantum computing are redefining what risk really looks like — both for businesses and for people.

This conversation also explores the human side of 2025: leadership under pressure, the importance of culture, mentorship, and professionalism, and why kindness, trust, and preparation are no longer “soft skills,” but strategic advantages.

From executive protection and estate management to corporate security, AI leverage, and career longevity, this episode highlights where leaders must adapt — and where getting it wrong even once can have lasting consequences.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• AI has crossed a critical threshold — no longer theoretical, but operational, accessible, and increasingly powerful
• Automation and optimization are now survival tools, not optional efficiencies
• Security threats are no longer siloed — digital, physical, personal, and reputational risks are deeply interconnected
• Quantum computing looms as a disruptive force that could render today’s encryption obsolete
• Executive protection is expanding beyond the C-suite into broader personnel and brand security
• Leadership today requires relationship capital, situational awareness, and long-term thinking
• Culture, kindness, and mentorship deliver measurable performance and retention advantages
• Careers are becoming less linear — leverage, adaptability, and mindset matter more than pedigree

To hear more episodes of The Fearless Mindset podcast, you can go to https://the-fearless-mindset.simplecast.com/ or listen on major podcasting platforms such as Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc. You can also subscribe to the Fearless Mindset YouTube Channel to watch episodes on video.

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