In this inspiring episode of the Wheels Up podcast, hosts Troy Claydon and Ben Hosking of Panoptic Solutions engage with celebrated entrepreneur Mark Wright, winner The Apprentice UK in 2014, who went on to be UK Entrepreneur of the year 2018 and listed in Forbes 30 under 30.

The conversation explores Mark’s path from small-town Australia to building a digital marketing empire in the UK, highlighting crucial lessons in entrepreneurship, adaptability, mentorship, and the power of staying authentic even under the spotlight.

Mark’s experiences and candid advice offer valuable insights into business success, personal growth, and navigating the evolving world of digital marketing.

Show Notes

00:00 – 05:00 – Introduction Troy and Ben welcome listeners back after a brief hiatus. Introduction of Mark Wright, highlighting his entrepreneurial journey.

05:01 – 15:00 – Mark Wright's Background and Achievements (Challenges and Success in Business) Discussion on Mark's experience winning The Apprentice UK in 2014. Insights into founding Climb Online, a digital marketing agency backed by Lord Alan Sugar.

15:01 – 30:00 – Entrepreneurial Challenges and Mentorship Mark shares experiences dealing with the pressures of starting and scaling a business. He discusses the importance of mentorship and having a board of advisors for business growth. Emphasis on the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in entrepreneurship and also the role of mentors in accelerating business success in providing valuable insights.

30:01 – 45:00 – Sales Techniques and Customer Relationships plus Digital Marketing Insights
Mark discusses the importance of sales and customer relationships in business and of delivering on promise and maintaining high standards to build trust with customers.. The significance of a strong online presence for business. Mark discusses strategies for effective digital marketing and customer engagement. 

45:01 – 50:00 – Closing Thoughts Final insights from Mark on the future of digital marketing and entrepreneurship. Emphasizing the importance of mentorship, goal-setting, and continuous improvement. Hosts thank Mark for his contributions and preview upcoming episodes.

Key Takeaways

• Adaptability is Crucial: The business landscape is ever-changing; entrepreneurs must be ready to adapt to new challenges.
• Continuous Learning: Ongoing education and staying updated with industry trends are vital for success.
• The Power of Mentorship: Learning from those who have achieved what you aspire to is a game-changer.
• Strong Online Presence: Effective digital marketing is essential for business growth and customer engagement.
• Authenticity Wins: Fame and success are easier to navigate when you stay true to yourself.

About Mark Wright

Mark Wright is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and digital marketing expert, best known for winning The Apprentice UK and being named UK Entrepreneur of the Year in 2018. Featured on Forbes 30 Under 30, Mark grew his business from a share house startup to a multi-million-dollar enterprise. Originally from Australia, he has become a prominent figure in British business through strategic leadership, calculated risk-taking, and a relentless drive for growth.

Connect with Mark Wright & Panoptic Solutions
Open to Feedback, Questions, and Business Opportunities

The episode is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs at any stage — from startup to scale-up. You can connect with Mark on the links below. But in the meantime throw on the headphones, click the Wheels Up Podcast Link below and enjoy! Don’t forget to subscribe and give us a 5 star rating on your favourite podcast platform!

 

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Guest: Michael Byrom – CEO, The Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation
Consultant at McBride Legal | Director at Southern Cross Soloists Ltd

In this episode, we speak with Michael Byrom, a legal expert and philanthropist dedicated to making a difference through The Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation. With a career spanning over 40 years in commercial law, corporate governance, and contract negotiation, Michael shares his journey from the legal world to leading one of Australia’s most impactful cycling-based fundraising initiatives.

Listeners will gain insight into the intersection of business, philanthropy, and endurance challenges, as Michael discusses how The Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation has raised over $44 million for children’s charities and continues to build a legacy of executive networking through high-performance cycling events.

Key Takeaways

🔹 Transforming Passion into Purpose – How Chain Reaction uses endurance cycling to drive fundraising and executive engagement.
🔹 The Power of Executive Networks – Why senior business leaders are drawn to this initiative and how they make an impact beyond the boardroom.
🔹 Lessons in Resilience & Leadership – What endurance sports can teach corporate leaders about perseverance, teamwork, and goal-setting.
🔹 Future Goals for Chain Reaction – Insights into the foundation’s ambitious targets for 2025 and the events shaping the next chapter.

👤 About Michael Byrom

Michael Byrom is a highly regarded legal consultant with over four decades of experience in commercial, corporate governance, and real estate law. A director of The Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation and Southern Cross Soloists Ltd, Michael brings his expertise and leadership to organizations that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

Since its founding in 2007, Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation has raised over $44 million for children's charities, supporting more than 50 organizations across Australia. The foundation continues to connect business leaders with meaningful philanthropy through high-endurance cycling events, fostering a culture of giving, leadership, and community impact.

🎧 Tune In

Discover how Michael Byrom and Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation are redefining corporate philanthropy through endurance cycling. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your network!

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📍 LinkedIn: Panoptic Solutions
📧 Email: [email protected]

#Philanthropy #CorporateLeadership #EnduranceCycling #Fundraising #ChainReactionChallenge #ExecutiveNetworking #Resilience

Guest: Steve Bernard, CFE - LinkedIn

Advisor / Board Appointments: International SOS, Metro One, Prescient

Formerly the Executive Vice President for Protection at Sony Pictures Entertainment.

In this episode, Stevan Bernard, a globally recognized security expert with nearly five decades of experience, shares his incredible journey from leading global security operations at Sony Pictures Entertainment to establishing Bernard Global, LLC. Stevan reflects on his personal health challenges, his commitment to mentoring the next generation, and the wisdom he has gained through navigating security risks across the globe.

Listeners will discover how resilience, integrity, and purpose have shaped his life and career, offering powerful lessons for anyone seeking to lead with impact and navigate challenges with grace.

Key Takeaways

1. Overcoming Challenges: Stevan discusses his personal health battles, revealing how adversity strengthened his leadership and commitment to helping others.
2. Building a Legacy: His passion for mentoring the next generation of security professionals, rooted in integrity and a vision for a safer world.
3. Lessons from the Field: Stories from his global security operations and the insights gained from managing crises and mitigating risks in diverse environments.
4. Purpose-Driven Leadership: Why integrity is the foundation of impactful leadership and how it shapes meaningful mentorship.

👤 About Stevan Bernard
Stevan Bernard brings nearly five decades of experience in security across government and private sectors. As the former Executive Vice President of Global Protection Services at Sony Pictures Entertainment, Stevan led security operations in over 50 countries, overseeing global threat management, cybersecurity, and crisis response.

Currently, as CEO of Bernard Global, LLC, he provides advisory services on corporate security, crisis preparedness, leadership, and risk mitigation. Recognized by esteemed organizations such as the CIA and FBI, Stevan remains a respected thought leader, dedicated to inspiring the next generation of security professionals.

🎧 Tune In
Listen to Stevan’s inspiring journey and gain insights into leadership, resilience, and the evolving world of security. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your network!

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• Website: www.panopticsolutions.com
• LinkedIn: Panoptic Solutions
• Email: [email protected]

#ExecutiveProtection #Leadership #CorporateSecurity #Resilience #Mentorship #RiskManagement

In this episode, we sit down with Shane Cavagnino, a former military man to now a farmer in Tassie.

Topics and Key Mentions

• Shane’s transition from an intense military career to life on a farm in Tasmania.
• Mental health challenges, particularly for veterans, and how Shane is managing his own mental health journey.
• Early life struggles, including bullying and career pivots, that shaped Shane’s resilience.
• Memorable moments and lessons from Shane’s Special Forces training, deployments, and leadership.
• Shane’s involvement in Panoptic Solutions and experiences in executive protection and private security.

5 Key Quotes from Shane

1. “There’s no cookie-cutter solution for everyone in the military transitioning to civilian life.”
2. “When I joined the military, I found a sense of purpose—it became my identity.”
3. “I’ve got a problem, and I’m working through it. That’s the accountability I owe myself and those around me.”
4. “Moving to Tasmania was like starting fresh, but I realized I needed a plan to truly work on myself.”
5. “For me, this journey is about being the best version of myself for my family, that’s what really matters now.”

Theme

The theme of this episode is resilience, identity, and transformation. Shane’s journey through military life, private security, and personal development highlights how challenges can be confronted head-on with self-reflection, a strong support network, and dedication to mental health. He discusses how to integrate intense life experiences into a balanced, purpose-driven life.

What the Listener Will Get

Listeners will gain insights into the mental health struggles faced by veterans and how critical it is to seek support and build a life outside of high-pressure careers. Shane provides a firsthand account of how resilience, self-awareness, and vulnerability are essential not only for military success but for personal well-being in civilian life. This episode encourages others to look beyond identity shaped by careers and to focus on the broader purpose.

 

Shane's Bio

 

Shane Cavagnino is a qualified Australian Special forces operator with 18 years of experience in combat operations, counter terrorism and protection of Australia’s high-ranking government and military officials. Shane Cavagnino holds several academic achievements including; Diploma of Security and Risk Management, Diploma of Project Management and various other tertiary certificates.

 

Shane Cavagnino served with distinction prior to discharging from the Australian Defence Force with almost 18 years’ service. Shane Cavagnino completed Special Forces Selection in 2011 has become qualified and an instructor in a variety of special operations skill-sets including close protection, advanced close quarters combat, tactical driving, combat medicine as an EMT and urban combat operations. Shane Cavagnino transferred to the Active Reserves in 2020 where he still maintains a reserve commitment instructing in various skill sets supporting the special forces training school. 

 

Shane Cavagnino has conducted training and combat operations both domestically and internationally in countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, United Arabs Emirates, East Timor, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Jordan, United Stated and has protected high profile clientele including, The Prime Minister of Australia, Chief of Australian Army, Chief of Australian Defence force, Australian Minister of Defence, private families and high profile celebrities. 

 

Shane Cavagnino has received the following awards and distinctions:

 

• Infantry Combat Badge 

• Australian Active Service Medal 

• Australian Service Medal 

• Australian Operational Service medal middle east 

• Counter Terrorism/ Special Recovery Clasp

• Australian Defence Medal

• Returned from Active Service Badge

• Meritorious Unit Citation Special Operations Task Group 

• Afghanistan Medal 

 

In his spare time Shane enjoys training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and spending time outdoors with his wife and three children.

 

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In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Dye, a seasoned expert in Dignitary and Executive Protection. Kevin's career began as an enlisted Air Force defender, where he honed skills in both defensive and law enforcement missions. His transition to the U.S. Secret Service was natural, as both entities share a dual mission of law enforcement and protection. Kevin served with distinction in the Secret Service for over two decades, including in the elite Presidential Protective Division, safeguarding Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, among other high-profile dignitaries.
We dive into Kevin’s impressive career highlights, including managing security at presidential inaugurations and international summits. Beyond his operational duties, Kevin has been instrumental in developing training programs that have since become standards within the Secret Service. His work in crisis management and training continues to impact the security industry today.

Kevin now works as a Senior Manager in private executive protection and serves on the Board of Executive Protection Professionals, helping shape the ANSI standards for executive protection.

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Sponsor Shout-Outs: WheelsUp Whiskey

Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined Rhys Dowden and Clancy Roberts as they talk through there martial arts journeys.

Guest 1: Rhys Dowden (Operator Edge)

• Background: Joined the Australian Army in 1999, initially in the Cavalry. Attempted SAS Selection in 2002. Later, after contracting in Iraq as a private security contractor, rejoined the military, successfully passing Commando selection in 2008 with 4RAR (later 2CDO). Rhys served for 12 years, including two deployments to Afghanistan—one as an assaulter and another as a Special Forces sniper. Now runs Operator Edge, focusing on prepping future SF candidates and offering mindset and physical training.
• Website: Operator Edge
• Socials: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook
  
  

Guest 2: Clancy Roberts (Way-Finder Field Skills)

• Background: Joined the Army Reserves in 2003 and went full-time with 3RAR in 2005. Deployed to Timor multiple times and passed selection in 2010. Deployed to Afghanistan three times and Iraq twice before discharging in 2016. Currently runs Way-Finder Field Skills, focusing on preparing military and law enforcement personnel in navigation and field skills.
• Website: Way-Finder Field Skills
• Socials: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook

Episode Overview: This episode is part of a series discussing the intersection of martial arts, military service, and the security industry. We are joined by two Australian Special Forces veterans, Rhys Dowden and Clancy Roberts, both of whom have achieved black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). We explore their journeys through martial arts, how it has shaped their careers, and its impact on their lives.

Topics Covered:

1. 1. Military Background:

• Clancy: From Army Reserves to full-time 3RAR and later Special Forces. Multiple deployments to Timor, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Transition into civilian life and launching Way-Finder Field Skills.
• Rhys: From initial military service in the Cavalry, attempting SAS selection, to contracting in Iraq. Returning to the military, passing Commando selection, and serving as an assaulter and sniper.
  
  

Introduction to Martial Arts:

• Martial Arts Journey: Both Rhys and Clancy have trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) for years, achieving black belts. Discussion of their progression, challenges, and the benefits martial arts have provided in their military and post-military careers.
  
  

Impact of Martial Arts on Security Industry:

• Practical Skills: How martial arts, particularly BJJ, has translated into practical skills in the security industry, especially in high-stress environments.
• Mental Toughness: The role of martial arts in developing mental resilience and discipline.
  
  

Individual Business Ventures:

• Rhys: Operator Edge focuses on preparing future SF candidates through mindset and physical training. Discussion on the "small wins phenomenon" and how to mentally and physically prepare for high-pressure situations.
• Clancy: Way-Finder Field Skills prepares military and law enforcement personnel in navigation and field skills, helping them gain confidence and proficiency in critical tasks.
  
  

Martial Arts and the Future:

• Past, Present, and Future: Reflections on how martial arts have evolved and where Rhys and Clancy see the industry going. Discussion on the importance of continued training and innovation.
  
  

• Shout Outs and Closing Thoughts:

• Websites: Operator Edge, Way-Finder Field Skills

• Socials: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook
• Contact Info: Emails for direct inquiries.

Media: Include relevant images or clips from their training sessions, martial arts events, or previous interviews.

Sponsor Shout-Outs: WheelsUp Whiskey

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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Patrick Kane who is the director of security with a US corporation with operations worldwide. Patrick is heavily focused on developing and implementing mitigation measures to support highly mobile global workforce and multiple traveler's, to include pre-travel risk assessments, coordinating secure transportation and journey management, assessing hotel and transportation options.

Patrick currently 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 recently spearheaded the creation of a Travel Risk Working Group within ASIS International. Patrick is also the past Chair and Chair Emeritus of the OSAC Aviation Security Working Group.  He has over 20 years of experience working in private sector corporate security; most of that time focused on international operations and has personal experience on the ground in more than 70 countries. 

Since 1996 Patrick has been a Certified Protection Professional (CPP) in good standing under the auspices of ASIS International.  He received an International Executive MBA from Instituto de Empresa in Madrid, Spain in 2004.  Prior to entering the private sector, Patrick served as an infantry officer in the US Marine Corps.  He welcomes questions, comments and suggestions and can be reached at [email protected] or via LinkedIn at:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickkane2/ 

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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Justin Hanson, CD.   Through 27 years working with law enforcement, and the military with multiple deployments internationally and domestically, he’s honed both hard and soft skills. He’s trained thousands of soldiers, military police and other law enforcement personnel.
  What hasn't Justin done in Executive Protection from running multinational operations to training some of the best agents in the world in the art of Dignitary protection.

He’s passionate about sharing his extensive knowledge not just with those in the industry, but with regular civilians. Through SpecVIP Protection Group Inc., he offers courses covering the basics of personal protection, including self-defence and travel preparation.

Not only is he a stand out in the field, he's also a straight up hero. This is a much shortened piece on his bravery during an active shooter situation.

Justin Hanson was cleaning up after his child’s second birthday party when he heard what he initially thought was fireworks. But when he looked across the lake bordering his home, he saw an active shooter.

Hanson is the type of person you want at such a scene. With two decades of experience in personal security, he directed guests to take cover, helped the police control the scene and administered first aid to the victims.

Later, when everything was over, his neighbours remained afraid. Hanson responded by creating the Edmonton Safe & Secure Project — a collection of Facebook groups for neighbourhoods throughout the city — to keep people as informed as possible about safety and security in their area.

 

 

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“Cleared Hot” - Special Ops Combat Controller, Author, Hot Sauce & Tequila aficionado Havoc 06 Troy Knight.

 

"Cleared Hot" - The term used by Special Operations Combat Controller Teams to authorise an aircraft to engage an enemy target!

Wheels Up Hosts, Troy Claydon and Ben Hosking sit down with a founding member of Australia's Special Operations Combat Controller capability and former Australian Combat Controller Troy Knight AKA Havoc 06. (podcast link at the bottom of this article.)

They talk about his journey prior to defence, his time in the military across multiple deployments and his journey post discharge including the challenges he faced with his mental health and conversely about the positive culture changes in the ADF.

Troy and Troy talk about their times contracting in Iraq working as Private Security in hostile environments and Troy K stint as a linguist and Maritime Security Operator.

Nowadays Troy Knight is a motivational speaker and entrepreneur selling his Cleared Hot Brand of chilli sauces and alcohol beverages. Get on over to his website https://troyknight.com.au/store/ to purchase them and his amzing book Havoc06

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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Simon Chen who is the CEO and founder of Eight Black, a company based in Longmont, Colorado that provides high-performance consulting services to CEOs, as well as executive transportation and security solutions.[1][2][4]

He founded Eight Black in 2013 and serves as the Chief Executive Officer, leading the company's operations and growth.[2] He served 8 years in the Australian Defence Force before entering private enterprise to work in his family business. He later moved across to the Telecommunication industry becoming an C suite level executive in the space. As his career progressed he lost the passion for the industry and found himself leaving to seek out a different future that ended up leading to running his own private hire black car service in Colorado.

Eight Black operates brands like Eight Black Executive Transport, Alpenglow Express, Longmont Shuttle, and Boulder Shuttle, providing premium ground transportation, executive protection, security consulting, and concierge services.[2]
Chen has extensive experience in the Asia-Pacific region, previously serving as the Managing Partner and Asia Pacific [2]
He has expertise in areas like telecom consulting, business process outsourcing (BPO) strategy, web development, online marketing strategies (SEO, SEM, email marketing), and social media consulting.[2]

Simon Chen is the entrepreneurial founder and CEO driving the growth of Eight Black, a multifaceted company offering consulting, transportation, security, and concierge services, with a focus on the technology sector and the Colorado region.[1][2][3][4]

Links:
[1] https://www.eightblack.com/management/simon-chen/
[2] https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonjchen
[3] https://globalbond.co/eight-black-simon-chen-visit-to-global-bond/
[4] https://www.longmontleader.com/directory/taxi-limo-and-bus-services/eightblack-81102/contact/344325
[5] https://www.linkedin.com/posts/simonjchen_executiveprotection-eightblack-activity-7196829562909904896-2cQF

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Welcome back to the Wheels Up Podcast. Today Troy and Ben are joined with Dustin Osborne who is a Sergeant with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) in Australia. He is also closely associated with ATMA, which stands for the Australian Tactical Medical Association and sits on several working boards involved with the betterment of Law Enforcement and Medical First Response.
   

He joined the Queensland Police Service in 2008 and has been attached to the Fortitude Valley Police Station as a general duties officer.[1][2]

Osborne is actively involved in promoting tactical first aid and medical training within the QPS.[3][4]

He has presented at ATMA conferences, including ATMC18 and ATMC19 (Australian Tactical Medical Conference), on topics related to tactical medicine and enabling life-saving interventions by police officers.[1][2][3][4]- At ATMC18, he delivered a presentation titled "Stop the Killing Enable the Living," highlighting the importance of tactical first aid for law enforcement.[1][2]- At ATMC19, he co-presented with Prue Snedden on "Tactical First Aid in Queensland Police," discussing the integration of tactical medical training within the QPS.[3][4]

Osborne is passionate about equipping police officers with the necessary medical skills to provide immediate life-saving care in high-risk situations.[1][2][3][4]

He has completed a graduate certificate in Tactical Medicine, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing the medical capabilities of law enforcement personnel.[5

Osborne maintains close ties with ATMA, an organisation dedicated to promoting tactical medicine and improving medical support for high-risk operations in Australia.[1][2][3][4][5]

Dustin's Links

[1] https://atma.podbean.com/e/atmc18-snr-cst-dustin-osborne-stop-the-killing-enable-the-living/

[2] https://www.audacy.com/podcast/the-atma-podcast-aa441/episodes/atmc18-snr-cst-dustin-osborne-stop-the-killing-enable-the-living-a47e6

[3] https://www.audacy.com/podcast/the-atma-podcast-aa441/episodes/atmc19-tactical-first-aid-in-queensland-police-scst-dustin-osborne-ccp-prue-snedden-84148

[4] https://atma.podbean.com/e/atmc19-tactical-first-aid-in-queensland-police-scst-dustin-osborne-ccp-prue-snedden/

[5] https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dustin-osborne-221105152_police-medic-tecc-activity-6869514278051954688-p0u9

 

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