Episode 231 - Fearless Conversations: Tim Wenzel on Leadership and the Security Industry

In this episode of the Fearless Mindset podcast, host Mark Ledlow interviews Tim Wenzel, a top 40 life safety and security thought leader, about his journey in the security industry. Tim shares his experiences transitioning from corporate tech to Kroll, the challenges and accomplishments in becoming a recognized leader, and how he overcame initial fears of public speaking. The conversation sheds light on the significance of creating joyful and respectful environments in a field often marked by fear and conformity. Tim also discusses his philosophy of true leadership and the importance of developing strong, cohesive teams. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in leadership and the security industry.

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Transition to Security Industry: Tim Wenzel shares his journey from corporate tech to becoming a recognized leader at Kroll in the security and life safety field.
• Overcoming Challenges: He highlights overcoming initial fears of public speaking and navigating the challenges of establishing credibility in a new industry.
• Leadership Philosophy: Tim emphasizes the importance of creating joyful, respectful environments in a field often marked by fear and conformity.
• Team Development: He advocates for building strong, cohesive teams as a cornerstone of effective leadership.
• Valuable Insights: The conversation provides actionable advice for aspiring leaders and professionals in the security industry.

QUOTES

• "Usually, they're throwing you under the bus to make themselves look good because the ego is in the way."
• "It wasn’t a ‘how to,’ it was a ‘how to think about it.’ And this is what you’re responsible for, even if you don’t think you’re responsible for it."
• "Man, I was nervous. Sweating profusely. But the coolest thing I did was switch to projection mode and started drawing live during the presentation—it entertained and instructed."
• "We started this thing called the problem-solving mindset and came back to teach it. The response was overwhelming—people kept returning to learn more."
• "From an introvert who never dreamed of public speaking, to running workshops with 150 people in the room. It’s crazy how far it’s come."
• "Man, I was nervous. Sweating profusely. But the coolest thing I did was switch to projection mode and started drawing live during the presentation—it entertained and instructed."

Get to know more about Tim Wenzel:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/relevant-perception/

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