In this episode of Talk’n TRM: The Traveller Files, Bex shares a story that is equal parts shocking and mortifying. Imagine arriving at your hotel room after a long day, only to find your boss—naked—inside. What follows is a whirlwind of misunderstandings, frantic apologies, and a stark reminder of how quickly a business trip can spiral into chaos. Bex is joined by Jessica Inglis to reflect on the situation, discussing hotel key safety, the importance of communication, and how even the most awkward travel moments can offer lessons for employees and organisations alike. Email bex@8phaseconsulting.com for the employee travel tips PDF.   Share your perspective with Bex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

In this episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Jade Oakley, Founder of We Move Travel, a data-driven travel platform dedicated to making travel safer, more inclusive, and more personalised for underrepresented groups. Jade shares her personal story of a hotel stay gone wrong, where an incorrect check-in led to a frightening incident, her door being opened in the middle of the night by a security guard. When she shared her experience on LinkedIn, the response was overwhelming, with many travellers coming forward to say they had experienced similar situations. Jade is also an advocate for safety differences for different demographics and why travel risk management can’t be a one-size-fits-all approach. Jade and Bex explore how organisations and travel providers can build more depth and empathy into their risk management strategies, ensuring that all travellers, regardless of gender, background, or identity, feel safe and supported. Jade also talks about how her work with We Move Travel aims to fill critical gaps in travel data, using technology and insight to create safer and more equitable travel experiences for everyone. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of diversity, inclusion, and travel risk management, and how the industry can evolve to protect all travellers, not just the majority.   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com   Contact Jade: 🌐 wemovetravel.com 🔗 LinkedIn  

In this episode of Talk’n TRM: The Traveller Files, Bex is joined by Jessica Inglis to unpack a story that takes “open-plan” a little too far. Picture this: you’re on a business trip, sharing a hotel room with a colleague, only to discover the bathroom door is made of clear glass. No frosting. No privacy. Just awkward compromises and towel improvisation. Bex and Jessica explore the very real challenges that come with situations like this, from blurred personal boundaries with coworkers to the responsibility hotels have to ensure guests are comfortable and respected.  This story isn’t just about bad design; it’s about dignity, responsibility, and the duty of care that both hotels and companies hold for their people when they’re on the road.   Share your perspective with Bex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

In this episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Shawn Woods, Co-Founder and Partner at Parascape Consulting Ltd. Shawn’s career journey has been anything but ordinary. A former Naval Warfare Officer with the Royal Canadian Navy, he went on to manage security in the agriculture sector before designing critical infrastructure security across the globe. Today, he works with leaders to build resilient, people-focused organisations equipped to face the world’s toughest challenges. In this conversation, Shawn shares his holistic perspective on travel risk management, explaining why, more often than not, incidents stem from bad management rather than bad luck. He also explores his philosophy that good security is generous, a proactive, supportive framework that enables people to operate confidently and safely rather than restrictively.   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com   Contact Shawn: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/parascapeconsulting/ Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/  

In this episode of Talk’n TRM: The Traveller Files, Bex is joined by Jessica Inglis to unpack a surprisingly common business travel dilemma: the expectation to eat breakfast with colleagues. For some, it’s a chance to connect and strategize before the workday begins. For others, mornings are sacred—quiet time for coffee, reflection, and personal space before a day full of client interactions. Together, Bex and Jessica explore how this small ritual highlights a bigger issue: the blurred boundaries of business travel. When you’re away from home, are you expected to always be “on”? Where does personal time end and work time begin? Tune in as they discuss the unspoken rules of travel mornings, the pressure to conform to group expectations, and why protecting personal boundaries might be just as important as professional performance.   Share your perspective with Bex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/

In this episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Kevin Coffey, a highly respected travel risk management trainer, consultant, and former LAPD detective who has dedicated his career to empowering travellers with street smarts and practical strategies. Kevin shares his fascinating journey into the world of travel risk management, beginning with his years in law enforcement investigating crimes against travellers at LAX. Those real-world experiences shaped his mission to help both business and leisure travellers identify risks early, travel smarter, and respond confidently in any situation. Over the years, Kevin has become a trusted voice for corporations, associations, and travel industry leaders, delivering engaging and actionable training that not only informs but also inspires audiences. His work spans keynote speaking, corporate workshops, programme development, and consulting with organisations to strengthen their duty of care and traveller safety frameworks. In this conversation, Kevin discusses the passion that drives his work, helping people feel more confident, prepared, and safe while travelling, and shares stories that underscore why effective travel risk management is more important now than ever. To receive the exclusive travel tips, email: bex@8phaseconsulting.com.   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com   Contact Kevin: Email: kevin@kevincoffey.com  Website: www.KevinCoffey.com  Calabasas, CA Office: 818 225-1991  Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kevin--coffey Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/  

In this final instalment of our 3-part series, Helen’s Story, host Bex is joined by Jennifer Milton, Chief Executive Officer & Founder of Compass Point Assist. Jennifer brings a wealth of global experience to the table, as an expat, a passionate advocate for universal healthcare, and a leader in the fields of travel assistance, health, and sustainable tourism. With her deep understanding of healthcare systems and traveller wellbeing, she offers sharp insights into Helen and Emily’s experience, and how travellers can better anticipate, manage, and mitigate risks while abroad. Together, Bex and Jennifer explore what Helen’s story teaches us, not just about medical emergencies on the road, but about the systems, preparation, and mindset that can make all the difference.   👉 Join the conversation on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/ #TalknTRM #TravelRiskManagement #UniversalHealthcare #TravelWell #CompassPointAssist #RealStoriesRealLessons Would you like a matching social media post for this one too?

In this episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Christine Connolley, Senior Global Crisis Manager at BCD Travel and a leading voice in travel risk management. Based in Denver, Christine plays a critical role in helping organisations fulfil their duty of care. At BCD Travel, she is part of an innovative team that develops robust TRM programmes, monitors global risk exposure, and responds rapidly to incidents as they arise. She also works as a consultant with Advito, delivering programme and policy development, guided security sourcing, and Traveller Security Programme Assessments to evaluate and strengthen organisational resilience. Christine shares insights from her work supporting a mobile global workforce and helping businesses align their travel programmes with industry standards. With extensive experience in crisis response and policy design, she explains the importance of tailoring TRM strategies to match organisational maturity and evolving global threats.   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com   Contact Christine: LinkedIn BCD Travel – Travel Risk Management Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

Welcome back to Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files! This episode is Part 2 of our special 3-part series, Helen's Story. In Part 1, we shared Helen’s experience and that of her colleague, "Emily", who was travelling with her when Helen had a medical emergency. Today, I’m joined by Jessica Inglis as we dive into the importance of not only having travel insurance but also knowing the key details.  Bex also reveals the end of Helen's story. Stick around for Part 3, where we’ll unpack the lessons learned from Helen's experience with expert Jennifer Milton.   Don’t miss this engaging discussion that combines real-life stories, decision-making dilemmas, and practical insights for travellers everywhere.   Share your perspective with Bex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/

In this episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Ceri McQueen, Global Travel Security Lead at Dyson. Ceri shares her inspiring journey into the world of corporate and travel security, having entered the field from a non-security background. With over six years of experience, she discusses how she developed her career and passion for creating inclusive, effective travel risk management strategies. In this episode, Ceri highlights the importance of having a robust travel risk management programme and how aligning with ISO 31030 helps organisations better understand and mitigate travel-related risks. She also emphasises the value of being considerate of different traveller profiles, ensuring programmes support the diverse needs of employees across the business. A strong advocate for diversity in the security industry, Ceri also touches on the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture and encouraging greater female representation in the field.   All views/comments by Ceri are independent and do not represent the views of the organisation, and these comments are not on behalf of Dyson.   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

In this first episode of this three-part Traveller Files series, host Bex Deadman shares the anonymised story of "Helen"—a business traveller who experiences a sudden medical emergency while on a work trip in the United States. This episode recounts Helen’s experience and that of her colleague, "Emily", who was travelling with her. When Helen has a medical episode, Emily is thrust into a high-pressure situation—communicating with paramedics, managing hospital admissions, and trying to navigate the complexities of travel insurance, all while in an unfamiliar environment. Helen’s Story is a human reminder of why Travel Risk Management matters—and why the experiences of individual travellers should be at the heart of every organisation’s approach.

In this episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Elizabeth Anderson, Manager of Global Travel Operations at Inmarsat (acquired by Viasat in 2023). With a career that began in leisure travel, Elizabeth has spent nearly a decade at Inmarsat, where she transitioned into corporate travel and led the development of their Travel Risk Management (TRM) protocols. Elizabeth shares her passion for traveller safety and how she continues to evolve the company’s TRM programme by fostering collaboration across departments and stakeholders. She speaks about the importance of truly knowing your travellers—not just where they’re going, but who they are and what risks may be specific to them. In this episode, Elizabeth highlights the value of engaging directly with travellers to build profiles that support personalised risk assessments and decision-making. She also discusses how TRM resources and frameworks can help organisations identify gaps and create robust, adaptable programmes.   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/    

In this special extended episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by three expert guests — Joël Marier, Mike Blakey, and Julian Penney — to explore the newly released ISO 31031: Managing Risks for Youth and School Trips. All three guests played a key role in the development of this important international standard. As members of ISO Working Group 9 (WG9), Joël, Mike, and Julian were part of a team of more than 30 global experts who contributed comments, suggestions, and expertise to improve and shape the final standard. In this episode, the group discusses the origins of ISO 31031, why it was needed, and how it supports those involved in planning and managing youth and school travel.  Drawing on their own experiences in education, travel safety, and standards development, Joël, Mike, and Julian share their insights on what makes ISO 31031 so significant and how it sets a new benchmark for safety in youth and school travel. Links TC262: https://committee.iso.org/home/tc262   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com Contact Joël:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo%C3%ABl-marier/  Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

Welcome to the final part of our 3-part series, April’s Story, on Talk’n TRM: The Traveller Files! In Part 1, we shared April’s real-life travel story and left you with a difficult choice to consider. In Part 2, I was joined by Jessica Inglis as we discussed how we might feel in April’s position, and what decisions we would have made. Now, in Part 3, we bring everything together. I’m joined by the incredible Carolyn Pearson—CEO and Founder of maiden-voyage.com—a true pioneer in Inclusive Travel Security. Carolyn’s work focuses on empowering individuals, corporations, and travel providers to make travel safer and more inclusive for everyone, no matter their background, identity, or circumstances. In this episode, Carolyn brings her wealth of experience and insight to offer practical advice on how to handle complex and high-stress travel situations like April’s. We discuss the importance of empathy, preparedness, and inclusive risk management in real-world travel. If you wish to share your own travel story anonymously,  please contact Bex at bex@8phaseconsulting.com. 8Phase Consulting - https://8phaseconsulting.com/ Bex Deadman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/ Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/ Assent Risk Management - www.assentriskmanagement.co.uk   #TravelRiskManagement #InclusiveTravel #BusinessTravel #TalknTRM #AprilStory #MaidenVoyage #TravelSecurity #Podcast #WomenInSecurity #DutyOfCare

In this episode of Talk’n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Bryan Conant, a seasoned safety and security professional with over a decade of experience across personal security, GSOC operations, intelligence analytics, building security, and travel risk management. Now working within the travel industry, Bryan is pioneering a new business model focused on improving safety for leisure travellers. Combining his passion for travel and security, he is adapting ISO 31030 and ISO 31031 standards—typically applied to corporate travel risk management—into frameworks designed to protect non-corporate and leisure travellers. Bryan shares his fascinating journey from the security industry into travel, highlighting the often-overlooked risks of leisure travel and the lack of contingency planning that many people neglect when organising holidays. He also discusses the knowledge gap surrounding security in leisure travel and the importance of incorporating practical safety measures. Bryan also provides valuable insights and practical advice, offering his top tips on staying safe while travelling, whether for business or pleasure. Join Bex and Bryan as they delve into how security practices can enhance the travel experience, empowering travellers to feel more confident and prepared wherever they go.   Podcast Links Defensive driving video and interview with the driver USA Smart Traveler Program UK Traveler Alert Registration   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com   Contact Bryan: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568564399936 https://www.foratravel.com/advisor/bryan-conant Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/    

In this episode of Talk'n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Stan Ayscue, a seasoned security professional with over 20 years of experience in international risk management and bespoke security consulting. Currently working with Exlog Global, a veteran-owned risk solutions provider, Stan draws on his extensive expertise to help clients mitigate risks and protect their people and assets. Stan’s impressive career includes serving as an Airborne Team Leader in the 82nd Airborne Division at Ft. Bragg (now Fort Liberty), NC, and working across 25+ countries, including Pakistan, Ukraine, Nigeria, and Mexico. His areas of expertise range from journey management and intelligence to maritime security, covert investigations, and insider threat solutions. Stan and Bex discuss how the travel risk management industry has evolved over the years, particularly in how people source information. Social media has transformed the way risks are assessed, but Stan emphasises the importance of focusing on the risk, not just the threat. He encourages critical thinking by asking questions such as “Yes, but what else?” and consistently challenging assumptions with “Why?”. Stan also shares his unique perspective on the evolving security landscape, encouraging businesses and individuals to think critically and proactively about risk. This episode is packed with expert insights on travel risk management, strategic thinking, and the importance of staying ahead in an ever-changing world. Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com   Contact Stan: Linkedin:  Stan Ayscue | LinkedIn Exlog Global Website: Home | Exlog Global Email:sayscue@exlog-global.com Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/   #TalknTRM #TravelRiskManagement #ISOStandards #SustainableTourism #YouthSafety #RiskManagement #Governance #InternationalStandards 

In this episode of Talk'n TRM, host Bex Deadman is joined by Joël Marier, a passionate advocate for safety, sustainability, and social impact. With extensive experience in social enterprise, strategic planning, risk management, and international standards development, Joël has dedicated his career to creating safer, more inclusive environments for vulnerable groups, including youth. Joël shares his journey into the world of standards development, which began with a tragic news story about a young boy who lost his life during a canoeing trip. This event inspired him to take action, ensuring such incidents could be prevented in the future. His work then has since focused on international standards like ISO 31010 and ISO 31031, which aim to enhance risk management and travel safety. With a career rooted in creating positive change, Joël emphasises the importance of proactive risk management, effective governance, and collaboration to drive innovation and safety in travel risk management.   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com   Contact Joël:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo%C3%ABl-marier/  Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/   #TalknTRM #TravelRiskManagement #ISOStandards #SustainableTourism #YouthSafety #RiskManagement #Governance #InternationalStandards 

Welcome back to Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files! This episode is Part 2 of our special 3-part series, April’s Story. In Part 1, we shared April’s gripping travel story and left you with a choice: What would YOU do in her situation? Today, I’m joined by Jessica Inglis as we dive into how we would feel in April’s shoes and discuss the decisions we might have made. After reflecting on the possibilities, I’ll reveal what April actually did and how her choice shaped the outcome of her journey. But the story doesn’t end here. Stick around for Part 3, where we’ll unpack the lessons learned from April’s experience and explore how her story can inform smarter travel risk management practices. Don’t miss this engaging discussion that combines real-life stories, decision-making dilemmas, and practical insights for travellers everywhere.   Share your perspective with Bex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/   You can also read April's Story here: https://8phaseconsulting.com/aprils-story-talkn-trm-the-traveller-files/

Join host Bex Deadman for another riveting episode of Talk'n TRM, as she sits down with Shaun Boulter, a seasoned security and crisis management expert with over 28 years of experience.   With a background in the British Military, Shaun brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as Global Head of Security and Operations at AXA Partners. His extensive experience spans various roles, including Head of Crisis and Security Management for a leading risk consultancy company based in Singapore, and managing the Security & Risk department for Perot systems in London.   In this episode, Shaun delves into the intricacies of corporate insurance, debunking common misconceptions. He emphasises that while insurance is vital, it doesn't save lives or provide immediate support during incidents. Shaun also sheds light on ISO 31030 and his efforts to help clients align with this standard, highlighting the importance of proper adherence.   Reflecting on his military background, Shaun shares his journey into civilian crisis management and travel risk management. He elucidates the differences between crisis management, assistance, and travel risk management, illustrating how they intertwine to ensure the safety and security of individuals and organisations. Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/www.assent1.com   Contact Shaun:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-boulter-318b4b/ https://www.axapartners.com/en Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/

This episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files brings you something a little different. Titled April's Story: What Would You Do?, Bex reads a true account of April, a woman on a business trip faced with a difficult decision. But here’s the twist - she's not sharing the ending. This is a new format for The Traveller Files episodes, and Bex is inviting you to be part of the story. As you listen, put yourself in April’s shoes. What choice would you make? What factors would guide your decision? Once you’ve had time to reflect, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Share your perspective with Bex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/talk-n-trm-the-podcast/about/   You can also read April's Story here: https://8phaseconsulting.com/aprils-story-talkn-trm-the-traveller-files/