120 Marathons, One Mission: Keep Kids Safe Online

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Tracy, founder of Safe Social Network, a platform dedicated to helping people navigate life in the digital age. He’s also the creator of Haven, a step-by-step online safety resource for parents.

Ben shares his unexpected origin story, how he was fired from his first job in politics after someone resurfaced his old tweets. That moment pushed him to start speaking to others about digital awareness, online reputation, and the real dangers kids face every day. Ben also opens up about his run across America: 120 marathons in 125 days, honoring kids lost to online dangers. He carried their names and stories on the back of an RV.

We discuss location sharing, cyberbullying, online predators, the emotional toll of exclusion, fentanyl dealers on social media, and why the future demands a new level of courage from parents.

Learn more about Ben at safesocialnetwork.com and usehavensafety.com.

1:55 Ben’s work: online safety, digital citizenship, and responsible social media use

3:27 Haven: a platform for parents

7:20 Location sharing on Snapchat: physical and mental health risks.

9:09 Ben’s first job, getting fired, and starting Safe Social Network

11:34 Kids asking for help with online predators, cyberbullying, and self-esteem issues

13:53 Roblox dangers

15:54 Ben’s run across the U.S., speaking about online safety and meeting parents of kids lost to online dangers

17:23 Children’s names on RV

20:59 A marathon every day, logistics, and support

21:50 Only ~300 people have done this run across the U.S.

29:07 Meeting dad Chris Diddier, fentanyl awareness, and the finish line of the run

34:00 “It’s as easy for a teenager to get fentanyl on social media as it is to order a pizza.”

34:40 Top 3 takeaways

40:05 “They’re not adults because we give them an adult tool.”

45:30 Society’s responsibility to victims

46:45 Learn more about Ben: safesocialnetwork.com, usehavensafety.com (for parents), @benjtracy

Hardening the Perimeter: Expert Insights

In this episode, we sit down with Brent Terry, one of the most trusted experts in vehicle barriers, perimeter protection, and critical-infrastructure security. Through his work with Security Solutions International, LLC, Titan Gate & Fence Company, and Nashville Commercial Fence, Brent has secured everything from storefronts and stadiums to embassies, military bases, and international facilities.

We break down the real differences between hydraulic bollards and wedge barriers, what makes certain systems lethal, how barrier ratings actually work, and why organizations, from major venues to high-risk military installations, turn to Brent for protection. Brent shares stories from Quantico, King’s Bay Submarine Base, projects in Barbados and Madagascar, and the practical realities behind securing busy areas like Broadway in Nashville.

A must-listen for anyone interested in physical security and high-risk infrastructure.

Notes:

2:40 — Brent’s background and his companies: Security Solutions International, LLC; Titan Gate & Fence Company; and Nashville Commercial Fence.

5:05 — What hydraulic bollards are and how they protect storefronts and buildings.

7:05 — Explanation of wedge barriers: steel plates mounted in asphalt that rise to a 45-degree angle

7:45 — Why military bases and other facilities choose non-lethal wedge barriers to reduce liability.

8:40 — Understanding barrier ratings and how speed factors into performance.

9:55 — The types of organizations that hire Brent most often.

10:20 — Adam McIntyre, Director of Training at Defend Systems, shares how the military protects bases and embassies.

20:45 — Discussion about Broadway in Nashville and what Brent recommends for events

22:08 — The January 1 New Orleans incident and what protective measures could have been in place.

23:50 — The cost comparison conversation and the question, “What’s a life worth?”

26:20 — Brent’s biggest project: Quantico, a year-long installation with extensive fencing.

26:58 — Brent’s most interesting project: King’s Bay submarine base, with three layers of fencing and unique requirements.

28:56 — International project in Barbados securing a prison

30:40 — Brent’s reputation as a trusted expert in the field and his contact information: brentterry830@gmail.com

How ZeroEyes Uses AI to Save Lives

 In this episode, we sit down with Dustin Brooks, Co-Founder and Chief Customer Officer of ZeroEyes, to explore what inspired a mission to prevent future violence through AI-powered gun detection. A former Navy SEAL, Dustin shares how ZeroEyes combines cutting-edge technology with human verification to provide real-time situational awareness to schools, businesses, and communities. He discusses the evolution of camera security, the importance of layered protection, and the ethical standards that guide ZeroEyes’ work. Tune in for an insightful look at the intersection of innovation, preparedness, and how collaboration across the industry can save lives.

02:20 – Dustin shares his background as a Navy SEAL and how ZeroEyes began. The founding question: Can existing cameras detect visible guns and give security teams real-time awareness to minimize harm?

06:20 – How ZeroEyes combines software with a managed human service

07:20 – The critical human factor: real people verifying every alert

10:15 – Why ZeroEyes invests heavily in its operations center to continually improve accuracy

18:00 – Adam explains how this software could assist Special Operators overseas

23:15  – Customer expectations: What do organizations want from AI gun detection?

25:20 – Educating customers: managing expectations and understanding limitations

28:55 – Mitigation vs. prevention

31:05 – ZeroEyes success criteria: 1) Responding quickly to an event, and 2) Tracking the situation as it unfolds

36:00 – “Everyone’s got a plan until they’ve been punched in the face.” How ZeroEyes helps teams triage and act fast.

38:15 – ZeroEyes economies of scale model

40:33 – Three arrests last weekend highlight the success of the product

44:50 – The Gun Violence Database: an educational resource on the ZeroEyes website 

45:45 – “A rising tide raises all ships.” Dustin’s call for collaboration within the safety and security industry.

Answering the Call: An Officer’s Response to an Active Shooter

Former Chattanooga and Nashville Police Officer Steven Meador sits down with Brink and Adam to share what it’s like to respond to two active shooter events during his law enforcement career, including the 2015 Chattanooga military recruiting center attack and the 2023 Covenant School shooting in Nashville.

Steven reflects on those days, brotherhood that forms in moments of danger, and the lasting impact of trauma that first responders carry long after the scenes clear. He speaks with honesty about what he saw, what he felt, and how therapy has helped him continue forward.

1:10 – Introducing Officer Steven Meador

4:00 – Early career

First Shooting of His Career

6:10 – First active shooter response in law enforcement

20:00 – Shots fired directly at Meador

22:45 – Training and teamwork—how officers came together under pressure

23:20 – The importance of standards and preparation in crisis

The 2015 Chattanooga Military Attack

26:30 – Hearing the call come over the radio

30:00 – Protective gear limitations and risk

31:30 – Encountering the first victims on scene

32:45 – Searching for potential car bombs and additional shooters

35:15 – Realizing four Marines had been killed

35:25 – Confusion over the suspect’s vest—possible explosives

37:15 – Processing the day alongside fellow officer Sean O’Brien

38:00 – Brotherhood amidst danger

The 2023 Covenant School Shooting

45:15 – Recognizing the call wasn’t another false alarm

47:25 – Calling his wife and father before heading to the scene

53:00 – Reconciling cognitive dissonance of children’s backpacks and books amidst violence

Aftermath and Advice

1:03:50 – Reflections as a father—walking past his daughter’s room that night

1:06:53 – The unseen aftermath of response work

1:09:20 – Advice for those facing trauma

1:11:00 – Finding someone you trust—both a professional and a friend who’s been through it too

Staying Ready: Lessons from Recent Threats

Description: In this episode, Brink and Tom break down recent events in the U.S., from the Ukrainian refugee stabbing on a train, to the Colorado school shooting, the Charlie Kirk attack, and a country club incident in New Hampshire. They discuss how these events reveal a troubling rise of evil in our country, shifts in societal behavior, and the importance of rapid response training. Learn practical ways to protect yourself and others.

Notes:

3:05 – Ukrainian refugee stabbing incident on a train and lack of help

4:30 – Societal shift post-COVID: fewer people willing to protect others

6:25 – Social proof: one person taking action can inspire others

7:15 – Most people don’t know bleeding control; Defend Systems courses include rapid response medical training

9:30 – Learning from threats: e.g., sit with your back to the wall on trains

10:00 – The country has a heart problem; evil is present

16:20 – Mass gathering attacks: Annunciation Catholic Church shooting and lessons on meeting force with force

18:15 – Ballistic laminate is costly; human monitoring and armed response are key

23:20 – Layered mitigation strategies are the best defense

25:00 – Security directors need input on building and planning decisions

28:15 – Evergreen High School shooting

30:40 – Prevent crises by caring and noticing people’s needs early

34:05 – Technology like motion cameras can detect threats early (Charlie Kirk event example)

42:30 – Always know multiple exits, even at weddings (New Hampshire country club incident)

44:50 – Rapid response medical training should be widely available, including in schools

46:10 – Real-life example: a tourniquet saved a Defend Systems client’s life after a mitre saw accident

Security After Charlie Kirk

In this episode, host Brink Fidler is joined by Adam McIntyre, Director of Training at Defend Systems, to analyze the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk. Together, they dissect the event security and broader implications for security moving forward.

From exterior security layers and high-ground threats to the emerging role of drones, Brink and Adam also examine normalcy bias and the risks of social media’s obsession with violent content. This conversation moves far beyond one incident, drawing lessons relevant to public venues and daily life.

Whether you’re a parent, student, security professional, or everyday civilian, this conversation pushes you to think critically about preparedness, personal responsibility, and the balance between freedom and safety in America.

(2:39) Pros and cons of the event security setup

(3:10) Quick reaction by local security forces

(4:15) Why high ground wins and how drones could change protocol

(6:00) The balance of security at open campus events

(6:40) How political events may adapt moving forward

(9:45) Why scanning 100s of yards matters, not just the immediate area

(14:01) Possibility of Charlie's choice to avoid a heavy security presence

(14:49) Normalcy bias and the danger of staying in the kill zone

(17:00) The importance of identifying exits at every event

(19:50) Teaching children about safety without instilling fear

(24:05) Why attendees, not police or fire, are the true first responders

(25:30) The harm of sharing violent videos online

(27:42) How social media influenced past shooters

(31:00) A wake-up call for political rhetoric in America

(32:20) Adjusting tactics as a society the same way the military adapts

Fighting Cybercrime: From the FBI to Overt Channel

Bart Holzer, cyber expert and founder of Overt Channel, shares his journey from FBI intern to tackling high-profile cybercrime cases. He recounts early days investigating online criminals, cases like Top 10 fugitive Charles Cobb and serial killer Maury Travis, and how the Patriot Act reshaped the landscape for cybersecurity experts.

Bart also breaks down what you should do if you become a victim of cybercrime, why recovery vs. prosecution is a constant trade-off, and why every business and family needs a cybersecurity plan. From multi-factor authentication to password managers and protecting elderly relatives from fraud, Bart offers practical steps anyone can take to stay secure in the digital world.

Notes:

2:40 – Bart’s start in cybersecurity through an FBI internship

3:55 – How early internet crime was tackled

8:05 – Early cases: child exploitation, white-collar crime, and more

14:15 – How the Patriot Act empowered cyber investigators

21:00 – Working alongside tech agents in the field

22:20 – Serial killer Maury Travis case (St. Louis)

23:53 – Charles Cobb, Top 10 fugitive case

26:48 – German child predator caught through internet data

30:20 – Steps to take if you’re a cybercrime victim

31:45 – Negotiating recovery vs. prosecution

42:00 – Bart’s top 3 cybersecurity tips

47:10 – Why Bart uses Keeper as his password manager

48:50 – Family uses for Keeper (even pool codes)

59:25 – Visit overtchannel.com

Smarter Security Screening with CEIA’s OPENGATE® Technology

In this episode, we explore CEIA’s OPENGATE® system, sharing insights from hands-on testing. Unlike traditional metal detectors, OPENGATE® is wireless, portable, weather-resistant, and managed through a mobile app, making it faster to deploy and easier to use in dynamic school and event environments. Guest Matt Samels from CEIA USA breaks down what sets this system apart, and Tom highlights Herring Technology’s experience field-testing the product. We also discuss the importance of training, proper implementation, and lessons learned from real-world incidents.

Notes:

1:32 – Intro to CEIA: From traditional metal detectors to their latest innovation, OPENGATE®, a wireless detection system.

2:50 – CEIA’s growth post-9/11, though they’ve been around much longer.

4:15 – What sets OPENGATE® apart from traditional metal detectors.

5:55 – Antioch High School shooting: detection equipment was available but not in use.

7:40 – Tom’s evaluation after field-testing the OPENGATE® system.

16:10 – OPENGATE® is weatherproof (heat, rain, etc.). Wind can trigger alarms, but units can be stabilized (e.g., Denver Broncos).

19:20 – Tom broke down, moved, and reassembled the system in under 5 minutes.

21:45 – Growing reliance on tech allows staff to focus on higher-level tasks.

25:30 – Metal detectors aren’t the sole solution. Technology + personnel + training must work together.

30:00 – Why testing products matters more than brand loyalty.

32:50 – Many well-funded schools install quality tech poorly or skip training, making it ineffective.

36:07 – The success formula: Technology + Human Intervention + Proper Procedures = Effective Violence Mitigation.

Learn more about CEIA and the OPENGATE® system: https://www.ceia.net/security/product.aspx?a=OPENGATE

Protecting People, Not Just Products: Security at GEODIS

Craig Parker, Head of Supply Chain Security at GEODIS, oversees safety across a global logistics network. In this episode, he shares the real-world challenges of securing both people and products, from workplace violence and domestic threats to theft and brand protection. Craig unpacks why security is often invisible until the moment it matters most and how meaningful change usually follows tragedy. Whether you're in corporate security or just care about workplace safety, this conversation offers valuable insights on preparedness and the power of effective security partnerships.

Notes:

2:00 GEODIS overview: logistics, transportation, and freight forwarding

5:00 Partnership with Herring Technology

7:30 People are the top priority: access control, cameras, and more

11:45 Potential for active shooter events in the workplace & lessons from shooting survivors

13:30 Training staff is more critical than solely installing tech

16:10 Security's role: 89 days in the background, 1 day in the spotlight

20:19 Stolen products in the black market & the Tylenol murders: how tragedy shaped change

23:40 Brand protection and the impact of theft

27:15 Camera footage isn’t helpful without actionable follow-up

30:00 Deterrence > recovery: most stolen items don’t come back

31:55 Domestic issues spilling into the workplace

40:50 It’s not just a job. People’s lives are at stake.

43:50 Effective messaging: make it about your employee’s life as a whole, not just at work

45:30 Pay it forward with the work you do

Tragedy in Chattanooga and an Officer’s Journey to Healing

In this powerful episode, Chief Sean O’Brien of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Police Department shares his remarkable journey through decades in law enforcement, including an account of the July 16, 2015 terrorist attack in Chattanooga. From his first officer-involved shooting in 1994 to leading K9 units, interdiction operations, and active shooter response training, Sean opens up about the moments that tested him most.

He discusses the physical and emotional toll of life-or-death encounters and the conversation around mental health in law enforcement. Sean speaks candidly about the trauma he carried and how EMDR therapy helped him heal. This is a raw, honest, and deeply human conversation about the unseen battles that follow critical incidents.

⚠️ Note: This episode contains strong language.

Notes:

5:15 – Sean’s background and start in law enforcement 

6:45 – His first officer-involved shooting on the freeway

8:45 – How life-or-death moments change your brain

10:55 – Passion for the K9 unit and bond with the dog

12:14 – Teaching active shooter response and promotion to commander

14:00 – Work in interdiction: stopping traffickers, drugs, and terrorism

21:00 – Beginning work in active shooter response

23:15 – Realistic training scenarios based on real-world incidents

27:45 – The events of July 16, 2015: Terror attack on recruiting offices

30:15 – Shooter opens fire; Sean realizes it’s terrorism

37:00 – High-stress response and breakdown of fine motor skills

50:15 – Sean engages suspect and accepts he may not make it home

56:45 – Suspect is taken down; confirmed no second shooter

59:15 – Honoring the stories of the fallen

1:06:50 – FBI waited 6 months to declare it a terrorist attack

1:09:50 – “We don’t rise to the occasion; we fall to our training”

1:10:30 – Lack of mental health support for law enforcement

1:15:30 – EMDR therapy helped reframe and process the memories

1:17:20 – Importance of both professional help and close friends

The Backbone of Modern Security: Networks, AI, and the Human Factor

In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Hatcher, Director of Technology Operations at Herring Technology, to break down the modern landscape of security systems. From AI-powered cameras and facial recognition to the often-overlooked power of a strong network, Aaron shares how his team tests, deploys, and supports cutting-edge tech for real-world protection. We also dive into key takeaways from ISC West (the security industry’s largest international tradeshow) and why human training still matters, even with the best tools.

Learn More about Herring Technology: https://herringtechnology.com/

Notes: 

7:22 – Why all modern security, from cameras to gun detection, is network-based

8:10 – Herring’s secret weapon: real-world IT lab testing, not brand loyalty

9:55 – Why the network is the single most important part of any security system

14:21 – How small upgrades can cause big issues

17:00 – The best tools still need trained people behind them

21:00 – 24/7 support: how Herring prioritizes responsiveness

25:00 – Demystifying AI to match the right tools

28:30 – Recap of ISC West: What’s big in security tech right now

33:45 – “Compliant” vs. truly integrated technologies

36:00 – Tech that holds people accountable, not replaces them

37:45 – Most exciting AI: reducing human error with smart automation

42:00 – The art and science of camera placement

Travel Smarter: Burglars Love When You Post from the Beach

In this episode, we dive into the risks of oversharing on social media while traveling and how it can make you a target for burglars. From real stories about alarm calls and serial burglars to why most break-ins happen during the day, Brink and Tom share practical safety tips to protect your home and yourself. Learn what to pack for safer vacations, how to check crime maps before you go, and why reviewing crime data beats relying on online reviews. They also cover essentials like firearms and permits, using pepper spray correctly, and simple hotel security hacks. 

Notes:

1:05 — Risks of posting on social media while you’re away

4:00 — Why most burglaries happen during the day

5:00 — How GPS data in photos can expose you

6:23 — What to pack for a safer vacation

7:00 — Using crime maps to assess safety

7:27 — Why you should call the local narcotics department before moving

8:05 — Why people check reviews but overlook crime data

8:45 — Importance of studying a map of the area before traveling

16:55 — The dangers of being glued to your phone

22:45 — Firearms and permit considerations while traveling

23:25 — Practicing safety correctly (don’t be like bad drivers)

24:30 — Using chemical spray

30:55 — Uber safety

34:10 — Benefits of secondary locking devices

35:00 — Why you should consider not letting hotel staff into your room

Follow Brink:

www.defendsystems.com

Follow Tom:

www.herringtechnology.com

Tips, Tactics and Tools is Produced and Edited by www.itsyourshow.co

Breakdown of the Florida State University Shooting

Tom and Brink break down the April 17 Florida State University shooting—an open campus event that exposes tough challenges in prevention and response. One heartbreaking detail: a student who survived this shooting also lived through the 2018 shooting at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School. They also unpack a disturbing video of a bystander filming a wounded victim and walking away, raising serious questions about public response to violence. From survivor stories to law enforcement insights, this episode is a sobering look at the realities we face and what can truly make a difference when seconds count.

Notes:
2:51: Open campuses are tough to secure; safety depends on those present.

4:09: A student at FSU also survived the 2018 Parkland shooting.

5:50: Tech helps, but action before police arrive is critical.

6:50: Trained people on-site make the biggest difference.

8:12: We can’t stop every shooting, but we can reduce casualties.

10:19: “You fall to your training, not rise to the occasion.”

10:57: Classrooms must lock from the inside-Sandy Hook’s top lesson.

14:35: Vanderbilt University Medical Center credits Metro Nashville police with saving 600+ lives because of the medical training program.

16:50: Disturbing video shows bystander walking past wounded victim.

18:30: Dallas school shooting went unnoticed because no one died.

25:55: Know the addresses of places you visit often.

30:00: Not making a decision is a decision but it’s difficult if you don’t have any seeds planted in your primitive brain. 

Tips, Tactics and Tools is Produced and Edited by www.itsyourshow.co

Jeff Mathes - Know Their Stories: Voices from March 27, 2023

In this episode, we sit down with Sergeant Jeff Mathes of the Metro Nashville Police Department—one of the first officers on the scene at The Covenant School on March 27, 2023. Jeff walks us through the sights, sounds, and split-second decisions of that day. He speaks candidly about what it means to be a leader in a crisis—and healing through accepting that there was nothing he could have changed about his actions that day to save lives.

Jeff opens up about returning home that day to his family and the moment he heard a clip of the fire alarm on the radio the next morning that triggered a mental break.

Awarded the Medal of Valor and recognized in the Oval Office, Jeff reflects on why the relationships formed through this tragedy mean more than any honor, and the personal truth he’s had to embrace: “You can’t live your life based on this event that was one day of your life.”

Notes:

5:58: How Jeff got into law enforcement/degree at Harding University

42:47: "I need to be able to do the job that I expect my people to do."

45:35: Understanding the gravity of the situation and that his actions will be scrutinized or recognized

1:15:29: Jeff's mindset on the way to the school and preparing himself

1:21:12: The rest of Jeff's day and returning home

1:24:24 The following day having a mental break because a radio ad started with a fire alarm sound

1:29:25: Pushing through mental trauma by accepting that he did his job and couldn't have changed the other outcomes

1:35:10: Jeff awarded the Medal of Valor by President Biden at the White House

1:39:30: "What interests me is the relationships I've formed from this event and the community I serve, not the awards or papers for my desk."

1:40:35: Jeff's advice for others that have gone through similar incidents

Teacher - Know Their Stories: Voices from March 27, 2023

On March 27, 2023, our guest was a teacher at The Covenant School in Nashville—a place she had poured her heart into. In this episode, our guest recounts the moments before, during, and after the tragedy that unfolded. 

She walks us through her second-by-second decision making process as she decides the best way to help the others in the building and also get herself out safely. She fled into the woods with children, thanking God that the spring leaves had started to arrive and provided concealment as they ran from the school. She shares how prior active shooter response training prepared her for split-second decisions she made to protect children, and the aftermath of surviving one of the most traumatic events imaginable. 

We also reflect on the lasting legacy of Head of School Katherine Koonce, who made the decision to bring training to Covenant staff just a year earlier. “Katherine saved our lives,” our guest says.

This episode is a moving tribute to courage, preparation, and the unwavering strength of educators in the face of the unthinkable.

Notes:

2:40 - Journey to becoming a teacher and why

8:05 - Recounting her morning on March 27, 2023

10:00 - Recognizing the sound of gunshots in a building and processing using previous active shooter response training

13:20 - “Hearing that [gunfire in a building during active shooter response training] saved my life. I probably would have gone down to investigate.”

20:20 - Realizing others in the building probably only heard the fire alarm. “How can I save as many people as possible?”

27:50 - All of this happened in under 2 minutes

30:40 - Conversation with the 911 dispatcher and getting children away from the school

40:00 - People all responded differently

43:55 - For 14 minutes, it was teacher vs. gunman.

45:40 - The staff did an outstanding job scripting and performing even after they had evaded.

1:03:40 - People can make excellent decisions under stress when they have prepared even a little.

1:15:20 - Fogginess after a traumatic event and dealing with survivor’s guilt

1:19:54 - Advice for teachers about why training is important

1:25:25 - Honoring Head of School Katherine Koonce

Rachel Sanderson - Know Their Stories: Voices from March 27, 2023

On March 27, 2023, Rachel Sanderson walked onto The Covenant School campus for her first day as a substitute teacher there. It was a beautiful morning—calm, full of worship, and seemingly ordinary. Within hours, everything changed.

In this conversation, Rachel recounts what happened that day—from the moment the fire alarm went off to the terrifying minutes spent locked inside a classroom with students. With raw honesty, she shares how training kicked in and how faith held her steady.

Rachel reflects on the trauma, isolation, and the unexpected strength she found in processing it. She also speaks about how connecting with others—including mass shooting survivors—has been key to her healing. Through it all, her hope is clear: to help others feel less alone, to encourage preparation, and to point toward the God moments even in the darkest hour.

Rachel’s story is a reminder of what this series is about—naming the hard things, honoring the good that still breaks through, and not looking away. This episode reminds us why we keep listening: because light still shines in the darkness.

Notes:

8:00 – March 27, 2023: Rachel's first day subbing at Covenant

18:25 – Fire alarm triggers confusion

19:30 – Rachel hears banging noises—normalcy bias sets in

25:50 – Rachel begins praying aloud

29:10 – The 911 call: confirmation of an active shooter

35:00 – Fire station, comforting children, and immediate aftermath

43:20 – “I’m glad I was the sub that day” – leaning on training

49:00 – Debriefing with Brink; importance of safe people to process with

53:40 – Balancing trauma and motherhood

59:40 – Frustration with media

1:06:00 – Facing evil in the flesh

1:13:05 – Healing through hearing others’ stories

1:14:30 – Purpose of this podcast series: “I didn’t know someone else felt that way too”

1:19:00 – Reaching out to other survivors

1:28:00 – “I want to help others—even if it’s just being prepared for an emergency situation”

Abby McLean - Know Their Stories: Voices from March 27, 2023 :: Ep 49

In this episode, we sit down with Abby McLean, a Covenant School parent on March 27, 2023, as she recounts the day of the shooting and the painful journey that followed. From the moment she received the first call to the agonizing time spent searching for her children, Abby shares the raw emotions, the uncertainty, and the overwhelming grief that forever changed her family and community.

Through her story, we gain insight into the heroic actions of teachers, the life-saving decisions made under extreme stress, and the aftermath that fractured relationships and reshaped perspectives on school security. We also discuss the broader implications—how schools and parents must take proactive steps to protect children, the importance of ongoing training, and the lasting impact of trauma on survivors.

This episode is a reminder that preparedness matters and that behind every tragedy are real people, real lives, and a call to action we cannot ignore.

Notes:

01:27: How people handle the aftermath

04:55: Abby recounts her experience on March 27, 2023

13:10: It took one hour to find out information on her children’s safety

18:00: Actions taken by staff during the event

23:15: We’ve seen police freeze under less stress than these teachers were under

23:40: The middle is where the difference is made

29:10: Defend Systems breaks this event down in their training because of all the remarkable decisions made on March 27, 2023

32:00: The importance of hard corners

37:35: Talk to your child’s school about forced entry protection on glass in doors

46:00: Abby’s experience at Defend Systems’ active shooter response training

58:20: The emotional aftermath of the event

1:14:00: Abby talks about society forgetting these events

1:18:40: Convincing school boards to make the investment in training for staff

1:22:00: Why Brink and Tracey did a walkthrough of the crime scene

1:26:00: When you hear data on how fast these events occur, it changes everything

Michael Collazo - Know Their Stories: Voices from March 27, 2023 :: Ep 48

In this episode, we are honored to welcome Detective Michael Collazo as he shares his journey—from his early years and decision to join the Marine Corps to his path in law enforcement and the day that made his name known across the nation: March 27, 2023. Along the way, he and Brink, a former Nashville police officer, swap stories, share laughs, and reflect on the unique experiences that come with wearing the badge.

This past January, Michael was awarded the Medal of Valor by President Biden for his heroic actions at The Covenant School, where he and four fellow officers ran toward danger and stopped the threat. Michael takes us inside that day, detailing his mindset during the critical minutes leading up to the school, the decisive moments inside, and the weight of what came after. We discuss how law enforcement processes trauma, the challenges of healing, and why preparation is key in the face of unthinkable events.

Notes:

0:02:22 - Michael Collazo discusses growing up in Middleton, Tennessee

0:05:45 - Story about a teacher named Miss V who helped turn his life around in high school

0:08:17 - Decision to join the Marine Corps after high school

0:10:57 - Joining Metro Nashville Police Department in 2013

0:30:00 - Discussion of work in Crime Suppression Unit (CSU)

0:48:34 - Beginning of discussion about March 27, 2023 shooting at The Covenant School

0:51:19 - Michael's mental preparation while driving to the school

1:00:01 - Arriving at the school

1:02:57 - Discussion of entering the school without full protective gear

1:12:08 - Detailed account of moving through the school during the incident

1:16:56 - Moment of confronting and neutralizing the shooter

1:26:13 - Post-incident actions and setting up medical corridors

1:40:01 - Reflection on the teachers' heroism and the community's response

1:46:11 - Discussion about healing and community impact after the shooting

1:49:24 - Conversation about post-incident mental health and processing trauma

Empowering Everyday Heroes: Active Violence Response Training with Defend Systems :: Ep 47

In this powerful episode of Tips, Tactics, and Tools, Brink Fidler and Tom Herring sit down with Tracey Mendenhall to discuss the critical importance of active violence response training across various sectors.

Timed Highlights:
[0:01:45] - The importance of preparation and prevention in safety training
[0:07:11] - Tracey's passion for empowering civilians through training
[0:17:01] - Why teachers are the most motivated and impactful training participants
[0:22:05] - Training spans diverse sectors: from orthodontic offices to country music tours
[0:25:22] - The unwavering commitment of teachers to protect their students
[0:27:51] - Practical, simple pre-hospital care techniques that can save lives

Key Insights:
- Learn how training transforms scared individuals into confident responders
- Understand the critical need for preparedness in today's unpredictable world
- Hear firsthand experiences from a former police officer and SWAT team member
- Discover why emotional connection is key to effective safety training

A must-listen for educators, corporate leaders, and anyone committed to personal and community safety.

Breakdown of the Antioch High School Shooting :: Ep 46 Tips, Tactics and Tools

In this special episode, we break down the shooting at Antioch High School in Nashville and discuss steps that must be taken to protect our schools and prevent future tragedies. We discuss the warning signs, social media threats, security measures like metal detectors and AI software, and the critical role of training and preparation. As former teachers, law enforcement, and military personnel, we use our insights to challenge you to take action before it’s too late. How can we move beyond reactive solutions and truly protect our students? 

Notes:

2:25 - We don’t name shooters

3:10 - Threat assessment had been done on this particular student

4:55 - Someone made the decision to let him come back

7:00 - Intent had been shared on social media

9:20 - “It’s not missed, it’s being dismissed”

15:15 - Metal detector misconceptions

17:50 - Adam’s thoughts on metal detectors and 2000 students in one area at one time

20:35 - AI gun-detection software that Metro Nashville Public Schools uses

28:40 - How critical is perceived threat in the military? Adam responds on the importance of training. 

30:00 - Technology is NOT a replacement for the human

32:00 - Some SROs become friends with students and get far from focusing on students as potential threats which is dangerous.

36:00 - People’s response was all over the place – subs without keys, etc.

42:00 - Go to your kid’s school’s board members to ask what they’re doing and how.