In this episode of Time to Head North, host Vince Vargas sits down with Steven Hernandez (CEO, The North Group) and Dr. Treston Wheat (security analyst and researcher) for a blunt conversation on the rise of targeted political violence, how disinformation and social media algorithms accelerate polarization, and what actually works to reduce risk at home, at work, and at events.   We cover: * Why lone-actor attacks are rising and how “atomization” and loss of community fuel them * The data behind polarization, terrorism trends, and why political violence may spike over the next 12–24 months * Disinformation vs. misinformation: why “fast info” beats “true info” online—and how to fight back with real critical thinking * Protective intelligence that works: pre-attack indicators, placement & access, and why details “fail in the advance” * Schools and workplace safety: access control, training that actually sticks, and what to do before the headlines hit * Fatherhood, faith, and the “little platoons”: how local community is a real security control * Practical takeaways for families, executives, and security teams If you lead people, run facilities, plan events, or just want your family safer, this is your playbook.   Chapters 00:00 Why violence feels closer now 05:38 Why polarization and algorithms supercharge division 12:45 What parents, leaders, and teams should teach to counter disinformation 18:50 What the data really says about lone-actor threats 33:30 Why protective intelligence beats paper plans (and where details fail) 41:00 What schools and workplaces should implement before a crisis 47:50 What the next 12–24 months can look like (realistic forecast) 55:40 Can community, fatherhood, and consistent drills actually reduce violence?   About the guests • Steven Hernandez — CEO, The North Group (protective intelligence & security) • Dr. Treston Wheat — Researcher and analyst on geopolitics, terrorism, and risk   Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Time to Head North podcast, presented by The North Group — security refined by intelligence. For more information head to: https://tngdefense.com/

AI is rewriting the security playbook — from deepfakes and “deep-live” video calls to bot farms, quantum-powered hacking, cartel drones, and fast-moving disinformation. In this episode of Time to Head North, host Vince Vargas sits down with Steve Hernandez (CEO, The North Group) to break down what’s real, what’s hype, and how families, schools, and enterprises can harden their defenses right now.   What you’ll learn Deepfakes vs. deep-live: why real-time video impersonation is the next frontier Quantum + AI: the coming risk to banking, identity, and critical infrastructure Bot farms and narrative warfare: how short-form content spreads disinfo at scale Voice-clone fraud and “CEO scams”: simple verification workflows that stop it Cartels, drones, and domestic event security: what battlefield TTPs mean at home Protective intelligence for leaders: closing open-source exposure and access gaps School security that works: access control, SRO funding, training cadence that matters Everyday readiness: situational awareness for families without living in fear   Timestamps 00:00 AI hype vs. real risk, and why deep-live beats deepfake03:05 Quantum computing + ML: what banks and enterprises should expect04:34 Bot farms, narrative ops, and the power of short-form manipulation05:58 Voice cloning, image theft, and social-engineered “FaceTime” scams08:20 Who’s most vulnerable online — and why12:05 Cartels, cyber, and drones: lessons from modern conflict zones20:00 Radicalization, grievance, and lone-actor risk28:00 Practical family safety and situational awareness33:40 School security: access control, SROs, and training that sticks40:30 A call for unity, vigilance, and measured response If this helped, please like, subscribe, and share. New episodes weekly. Podcast: Time to Head North — Security refined by intelligence. Guest: Steve Hernandez, CEO, The North GroupLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevehernandeztng/ Website: https://tngdefense.com/

On this episode of Time to Head North, Vince sits down with personal safety expert and author Kelly Sayre (Sharp Woman, Diamond Arrow Group) to break down practical, real-world strategies women and parents can use today. They unpack the viral train attack clip and translate shock into action: how to choose safer seating on public transit, create space, read baselines, use your voice without apology, and build “next-move” plans when someone escalates. Kelly also shares how to coach teens to advocate for themselves, navigate uncomfortable interactions, and keep options open—from boundary setting to disengaging and getting help.   You’ll learn simple habits that raise your awareness without living in fear, how to rehearse counter-moves mentally, and why confidence and calm can deter opportunistic threats. We also cover bystander basics, first-aid mindset, everyday carry considerations, and what healthy vs manipulative “niceness” looks like for coaches, coworkers, and strangers.   What you’ll learn * Situational awareness you can actually use: positioning, lines of sight, creating space * Boundary language that puts safety first without overexplaining * “Next-move” planning: what to do when the other person escalates * Coaching teens to speak up, accept “no,” and spot strings-attached “niceness” * Run, talk, or fight: building options you can execute under stress * Parenting without panic: curiosity over paranoia, conversations that stick   Guest Kelly Sayre — Author of Sharp Woman, founder of Diamond Arrow Group and the Sharp Woman Collective, focused on intuition-driven personal safety, communication, and preparedness. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thediamondarrowgroup/ Website: https://thediamondarrowgroup.com/   Timestamps 00:00 Why this conversation now 03:06 What the viral train video teaches us 04:58 Seating, space, and safer positioning in public 09:45 Finding your voice without apologizing for safety 13:32 When “no” triggers escalation: plan the next move 20:37 After action: disengage, check for injuries, call 911 22:58 Parenting for awareness, not paranoia 30:02 Niceness vs goodness: spotting strings-attached behavior 33:24 Curiosity as a daily safety habit 36:15 Kelly’s Sharp Woman Collective   Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Time to Head North podcast, presented by The North Group — security refined by intelligence.

In this episode of Time to Head North, host Vincent Vargas sits down with John Ramsey, Senior R&D Manager at Diversified Botanics, to expose the alarming rise of 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine)—a synthetic compound that is up to 40x stronger than morphine and sold openly in smoke shops, vape stores, and even gas stations. Often marketed as “stronger kratom,” 7-OH is not only unregulated but also highly addictive, with thousands of people struggling to quit after only a few doses. Parents need to be aware: free samples, candy-like gummies, and flavored drinks are being used to hook young adults into a dangerous cycle of dependence. John shares his expertise on how the compound is made, how it differs from natural kratom, why the market exploded into a $9 billion industry in under two years, and what parents should look out for to protect their families. This conversation is not about fear—it’s about awareness, education, and protecting your loved ones. Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Get more information on kratom here:https://diversifiedbotanics.com/

In this episode of Time to Head North, host Vincent Vargas sits down with security expert Denny Caballero, host of the Security Hope Podcast, to unpack the recent tragic New York City office shooting. Together, they explore the systemic issues behind corporate security failures, the mental health crisis stemming from traumatic brain injuries (CTE, TBI, RHI) in veterans and athletes, and the growing threat of lone-wolf violence driven by radical online ideologies.   Denny and Vince dive deep into: - Why corporate offices still lack basic AI-enhanced security protocols - How traumatic brain injuries can lead to erratic behavior and violence - The shocking ease with which threats can access sensitive office locations - The responsibility of leadership to adapt their safety protocols in 2025   Whether you're a corporate leader, veteran, or everyday citizen, this episode will challenge your understanding of modern-day safety and the psychological toll of overlooked injuries.

In this update episode of the Time to Head North Podcast, host Vincent "Rocco" Vargas returns after a brief hiatus to share major life updates—relocating from Texas to Utah and stepping away from the Border Patrol to pursue new leadership roles in the private sector. Vargas also breaks down the Top 5 cybersecurity threats currently making headlines, offering critical insight for professionals in security, IT, government, and corporate sectors. From China's zero-day attack on Microsoft SharePoint to ransomware threats and AI’s growing role in cyber defense, this episode delivers practical takeaways and urgent updates. If you’re involved in infrastructure, cybersecurity, or digital transformation—especially in the veteran, corporate, or public safety communities—this is a must-listen. 📌 Topics covered: - Nation-state cyberattacks on critical U.S. systems - Emerging ransomware targeting hospitals and utilities - New York’s $2.5M cybersecurity initiative for water systems - AI's role in the future of cyber defense - New Coast Guard cybersecurity rules for U.S. ports Stay tuned for upcoming guest interviews and in-depth conversations around leadership, resilience, and national security.

This episode of Time to Head North spotlights the real-life story of Kelli Herron, a runner who survived a violent attack in a public bathroom during a training run in Seattle. Her fight wasn't just physical—it was mental, strategic, and courageous. She turned her worst nightmare into a message of empowerment for runners, women, and survivors everywhere.   In March 2017, four miles into a half-marathon training run, Kelli stopped at a public restroom in Golden Gardens Park. Moments later, she was attacked by a registered sex offender. But thanks to her quick thinking and recent self-defense training, Kelli fought back with everything she had—using her elbows, voice, and sheer will to survive. She escaped, locked her attacker inside, and alerted the police.   Her Garmin GPS watch recorded every second of the incident—her sudden heart rate spike, erratic movements, and sprint to freedom—providing powerful proof of her story. Now, Kelli uses her experience to speak out and educate others on personal safety. Her message? "Not today." It's more than a phrase—it’s a mindset.   Read the full story here: https://www.runnersworld.com/news/a20...

Welcome to the first episode of Overwatch, a new roundtable series from the Time to Head North podcast, presented by The North Group — security refined by intelligence.   In this episode, host Vincent "Rocco" Vargas is joined by three experienced professionals in the worlds of military, law enforcement, and security to discuss The Four Fronts of modern safety: - School Security - Family Security - Personal Security - Corporate Security   Together, they bring over 80 years of combined expertise and dive into real-world concerns and overlooked vulnerabilities that impact everyday Americans, executives, and parents alike. This is a raw, honest, and tactical conversation designed to give you awareness, insight, and actionable takeaways on how to protect yourself and your loved ones.   Guests: Warsaw DelRosario – https://www.instagram.com/warsaw.delrosario/ Denny Caballero – https://www.instagram.com/danny_tanner_jr/ TJ White – https://www.instagram.com/tjwhitergr/   This series is dedicated to empowering Americans with the mindset and tools to stay ready — not paranoid — but prepared.   Subscribe for more episodes of Overwatch and Time to Head North where we cover real threats, real training, and real talk.

In this episode of Real Stories of Survival by Time to Head North, hear Kara Robinson Chamberlain’s gripping true account. At 15, Kara was abducted at gunpoint from a friend’s front yard in West Columbia, South Carolina, by serial killer Richard Evonitz. Held captive for 18 hours, Kara used observation, mental clarity, and bravery to escape — a decision that not only saved her life but ended Evonitz's multistate killing spree. Her escape helped law enforcement identify Evonitz, linking him to murders of Sofia Silva and sisters Kati and Kristin Lisk. Kara later transformed trauma into purpose, becoming an advocate, speaker, and survivor voice for others navigating post-trauma recovery. Her story inspired Lifetime’s movie The Girl Who Escaped: The Kara Robinson Story. Watch this powerful journey from survival to strength. Full story and feature: https://people.com/crime/kara-robinson-lifetime-movie-girl-who-escaped/ Hear from Kara Robinson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnxSiycAY3Y

In this episode of the Time to Head North podcast, host Vincent Vargas sits down with Warsaw DelRosario (@warsaw.delrosario), a former Green Beret and Special Forces Master Sergeant. Together, they dive into real-world conversations about personal security, situational awareness, and the mindset shift required when transitioning from military to civilian life. Warsaw shares his experience serving in Ranger Battalion and Special Forces, his work in targeting and intelligence, and how those skills carry over into protecting his family today. From concealed carry considerations to teaching kids situational awareness, this is a valuable discussion for anyone thinking about real-world preparedness and leading their families with strength and intention. Whether you're in law enforcement, military, or just a parent looking to improve your family's safety and confidence, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Topics Covered: Transitioning out of the military Situational awareness for families Concealed carry strategies and EDC habits Pre-incident indicators and personal safety Raising confident and aware children The importance of image projection and presence Brought to you by The North Group – Security Refined by Intelligence. 📍 Follow Warsaw on Instagram: https://instagram.com/warsaw.delrosario 📍 Follow host Vincent Vargas: https://instagram.com/vincent.vargas 📢 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content on personal protection, leadership, and resilience.

Welcome to Time to Head North, hosted by Vince Vargas and brought to you by The North Group – Security Refined by Intelligence. In this episode, we sit down with Anthony Autry, a man who turned his life around after years of addiction, crime, and incarceration. From growing up in Los Angeles to struggling with substance abuse and facing time in federal prison, Anthony shares his powerful story of transformation. Today, he dedicates his life to helping men break free from addiction, rebuild their lives, and become the best version of themselves. We dive into: - How addiction and bad decisions led to a downward spiral - The harsh realities of prison life and the lessons learned inside - The parallels between veterans, law enforcement, and ex-convicts - The power of discipline, fitness, and accountability in personal transformation - The importance of brotherhood and purpose in a man’s life This episode is packed with insights on resilience, mental toughness, and finding purpose. If you're struggling to get your life back on track or looking for motivation to push through tough times, this conversation is for you. Follow Anthony Autry: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unchained_fit/?hl=en Like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful conversations on self-improvement, security, and leadership.

Welcome to Time to Head North, hosted by Vince Vargas and brought to you by The North Group – Security Refined by Intelligence. In this episode, we take a real-world approach to self-defense, personal safety, and situational awareness by analyzing viral security incidents caught on camera. From road rage shootings to street fights and public altercations, we break down what went wrong, what could have been avoided, and how to protect yourself in similar situations. Whether you carry concealed, train in self-defense, or just want to improve your situational awareness, this episode will give you real insights into how to react, when to disengage, and how to stay safe in unpredictable situations. Topics Covered: - Road rage incidents and justified self-defense - The importance of emotional intelligence in heated situations - When and how to disengage from a potential threat - How martial arts and training can prepare you for self-defense - The legal consequences of using force in public altercations Have a viral security video you want me to analyze? Drop a comment or send it in, and we will break it down in an upcoming episode. Subscribe for more expert insights on security, self-defense, and personal protection. For more information about The North Group’s world-class security services — ranging from corporate and personal security to intelligence solutions — visit TNGDefense.com.

Welcome back to The Time to Head North Podcast, brought to you by TNG Defense—Security Refined by Intelligence. In this episode, I sit down with Daniel Brunner, a seasoned expert with nearly three decades of experience in national security, law enforcement, and counterterrorism. Dan’s career spans nine years in the U.S. Navy, followed by 20 years with the FBI, where he specialized in international and domestic terrorism, as well as Hispanic organized crime. He was a founding member of Joint Task Force Vulcan, a unit dedicated to dismantling MS-13 and other transnational criminal organizations. In this episode, we dive deep into: - The U.S. Government’s recent designation of cartels as terrorist organizations - The evolving threats from groups like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua - How cartels are expanding into cybercrime, human trafficking, and financial fraud - The role of Chinese influence in Latin America and its impact on U.S. security - The growing threat of drone warfare and how cartels are adapting to modern combat tactics - ICE raids and their impact on law enforcement operations in the U.S. - What everyday Americans need to know about personal security in an evolving threat landscape   Dan also shares practical security advice for families, business owners, and law enforcement officers navigating these challenges.   Want to learn more from Dan? Check out  his website https://brunnersierragroup.com/ Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert insights on security, intelligence, and personal protection.

Welcome to another episode of the Time to Head North Podcast, brought to you by The North Group, where security is refined by intelligence. In this episode, host Vincent Vargas sits down with longtime friend and former colleague Ben Jacklin. Together, they revisit their days in the Del Rio sector as Border Patrol agents and dive into Ben’s extensive career in tactical security. From his beginnings in the Marine Corps to his time with BORTAC and now in corporate and school security, Ben shares invaluable insights about tactical training, leadership, and the evolution of security practices. Tune in as they discuss pivotal moments, such as responding to real-life missions, navigating the challenges of law enforcement, and even the creative methods they used in the field to maintain stealth. Ben also details his role in the Texas School Marshal Program and how it’s shaping school security post-Uvalde. If you’re passionate about security, law enforcement, or hearing stories of resilience and adaptability, this episode is for you. Brought to you by: The North Group - Your trusted partner for personal, corporate, and security intelligence solutions. Listen in to hear more about: Ben Jacklin’s journey from the Marine Corps to executive security roles. What makes BORTAC training one of the best in the world. How creative thinking saved the day in tactical operations. The Texas School Marshal Program and its impact on safety. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights into the world of security and tactical excellence.

Dive into an engaging conversation with Byron Rogers and the Time to Head North podcast, brought to you by TNG Defense – Security Refined by Intelligence. In this episode, Byron shares his incredible journey from the Marine Corps to becoming a leader in executive protection and private security. Learn how he built his career, launched Bravo Research Group, and became a Knight of Malta, all while developing groundbreaking security strategies.   This episode is packed with actionable insights for personal, corporate, and home security. From layered defense strategies and emergency management plans to leveraging cutting-edge technology like Deep Sentinel, Byron breaks down how to protect your loved ones and property effectively. Whether you’re a professional in the security field or just want to enhance your family’s safety, this discussion offers practical tips and expert advice. Stay tuned as Byron shares stories from the field, discusses the evolving landscape of security, and provides a fresh perspective on how preparation can build confidence in today’s unpredictable world.   Podcast Topics: - Byron Rogers’ path to executive protection - The importance of layered home security - Emergency management plans for families - Leveraging technology like AI-driven cameras and alarm systems - Insights for school security and active shooter response - How preparation fosters confidence and safety   Learn more about T&G Defense: https://tngdefense.com/ Connect with Byron Rogers: https://www.instagram.com/byronrodgers2.0/   #security #securitytips

Welcome to another episode of Time to Head North, the podcast where we explore critical topics in security and intelligence, brought to you by The North Group — security refined by intelligence. In today’s episode, host Vincent Vargas sits down with Ricoh Danielson, a U.S. Army combat veteran, former private military contractor, and cybersecurity expert. With extensive experience ranging from combat deployments to sophisticated cyber threat mitigation, Ricoh provides invaluable insights into the ever-evolving world of security. This conversation dives deep into: - The rise of online scams targeting vulnerable individuals and how to identify red flags. - The growing threat of deepfake technology and its use in fraudulent schemes. - How scammers exploit platforms like LinkedIn to target businesses and individuals. - Practical steps to protect yourself and your organization from cyber threats. - Real-life examples of cybersecurity breaches and lessons learned. Ricoh also shares his journey from military service in Iraq and Afghanistan to a career in cybersecurity, where he now advises companies and individuals on protecting their digital assets. Whether you’re concerned about personal identity theft, securing your family’s online presence, or safeguarding corporate systems, this episode provides actionable advice tailored for everyone — from casual internet users to high-level executives. We also explore the human side of cybersecurity: how loneliness and vulnerability can make individuals easy targets for scammers, and what steps you can take to build resilience against such exploitation. If you’ve ever wondered how to spot fake profiles, prevent online fraud, or protect yourself against deepfake technology, this episode is for you. Join us as we uncover the tactics of cybercriminals and provide you with the tools to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly digital world. For more information about The North Group’s world-class security services — ranging from corporate and personal security to intelligence solutions — visit TNGDefense.com. Subscribe to Time to Head North for more episodes on security, intelligence, and actionable insights to protect what matters most. Reach out to Ricoh Danielson: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ricoh_danielson_/ Website: https://www.ricohd.us/

In this powerful episode of the Time to Head North Podcast, host Vince Vargas sits down with Rob, a military veteran and the founder of a groundbreaking security company that is transforming how communities approach safety. Unlike traditional security firms that focus solely on contracts and guard posts, Rob’s company embraces a community-first mindset, creating real, measurable change in neighborhoods. Rob shares his personal journey, from serving as a Marine Corps F-18 backseater and working with special operations units to tackling challenges in the intelligence community and eventually launching his own security firm. His mission? To redefine security by building vibrant, safe communities through unconventional methods and an unwavering commitment to human connection. This episode offers insights into: - The failures of traditional security approaches and why a shift is needed - How Rob’s company employs Afghan refugees and U.S. veterans to create meaningful, impactful jobs - Real-life examples of neglected city blocks transformed into thriving business districts - The importance of collaboration between security teams, local police, and community members - Why redefining security means focusing on the "five senses" to measure community vibrancy Rob’s approach combines innovation with empathy, creating a security model that’s about more than guards and surveillance—it’s about restoring trust and fostering growth. Learn how his team builds relationships with everyone from local business owners to the unhoused, creating safer environments for all. Whether you're a business owner, a veteran, or simply someone interested in how safety impacts community development, this episode will inspire you to think differently about the role of security in our society. Tune in to hear Rob’s story, his vision for the future of security, and the incredible impact his company is making.

In this insightful episode of the Time to Head North Podcast, host Vincent Vargas explores how Stoicism serves as a tactical tool for navigating stress, crisis, and uncertainty. Joined by his longtime friend and expert in security and Stoic philosophy, Brady Pesola, they unpack how this ancient mindset can sharpen your emotional intelligence and decision-making in high-stakes situations. Stoicism isn’t just a philosophy—it’s a practical framework for understanding and managing your emotions without being ruled by them. As Brady explains, reacting under the influence of emotion can be as dangerous as acting under the influence of substances, leading to poor judgment and undesirable outcomes. By focusing on what you can control and learning to pause between stimulus and response, Stoicism equips you to make clear-headed decisions, even in the toughest moments. The episode also delves into the practicalities of preparedness and family safety. Vincent and Brady share actionable strategies for protecting your loved ones, including: Developing a family safety mindset. Creating survival plans tailored to your environment. Building strong relationships with neighbors as part of a community defense strategy. Identifying potential assets and liabilities in your immediate surroundings. Learn how to prepare mentally, emotionally, and logistically for life’s unexpected challenges. Whether it’s securing your home, responding to a personal crisis, or fostering resilience in your family, this episode is packed with valuable lessons to keep you ready for anything. This podcast is brought to you by The North Group: Security Refined by Intelligence. For world-class corporate and personal security solutions, visit tngdefense.com. Key Takeaways from the Episode: The importance of emotional control in decision-making. Stoicism as a mental framework for stress and crisis management. Practical steps to enhance personal and family security. How to build a community network for mutual safety and support. Don't miss this episode if you're looking for actionable insights to improve your preparedness, strengthen your mindset, and safeguard your family in uncertain times. Would you like this tailored further for your audience or include a call to action for likes, comments, and subscriptions?

Join us on this special episode of Time to Head North as we sit down with our own Natasha Ryan and announce her departure from TNG. In Tash’s time as our VP of Communications and Business Development and host of TTHN, she connected with many service members who were experiencing difficult times. That connection to the people who fill our industry led Natasha to her new position at Stronger Families. This non-profit organization offers life-changing relationship skills to Military, Veteran, and First Responder families so they can be strong and thrive. Throughout the conversation, Steve and Natasha delve into veterans' daily internal struggles and the things they have to live with. Tash was an awesome part of our team and we will miss her a ton!

In this week’s episode of Time to Head North, we sit down with Vietnam veteran Michael Reagan, who has devoted his life to helping the families of fallen soldiers and has received international recognition for his life’s work. Through his heartfelt and meticulously crafted portraits, Michael has brought comfort to countless families, offering them a piece of their lost loved ones. Listen in as he shares his incredible stories of bravery and resilience, recounts his journey of finding purpose after the war, and reveals how art saved his soul and became a beacon of hope and healing for so many.