Time to Head North

Hosted by The North Group

BusinessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Mar 2026

Language

About the show

”Time to Head North” is designed to bring people together across industries to discuss the challenges of managing risk in today’s climate and convey a personal touch to an industry notorious for being tough. Join the TNG family as we delve into everything from safety and security to balancing your work and family life. We hope you’ll find this adventure both informative and entertaining!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

March 29, 2026Episode 8629 min

"The Fear Your Feeling is By Design" What's Really Happening in The War

In this episode of the Time to Head North podcast, Vince sits down with Denny from Security Halt Media to break down what’s really happening in today’s global landscape and how everyday people should think about security, fear, and preparedness. As conversations around Iran news, the Israel Iran war, and broader middle east war tensions continue to dominate world news, this episode shifts the focus from headlines to real-world application. Instead of reacting to fear-driven narratives, this discussion centers on practical security principles, mindset, and how families can stay grounded during uncertain times. Denny shares insight from his military background and explains why much of today’s media environment is driven by information operations and psychological pressure rather than immediate real-world threats. The conversation also explores how veterans, families, and civilians can filter political commentary, avoid panic, and focus on what actually matters: awareness, preparedness, and community. This episode is not about fear. It’s about control, clarity, and understanding how to navigate modern conflict narratives without losing your sense of reality. If you are following developments around Donald Trump, military involvement, or the evolving geopolitical landscape, this episode provides a grounded perspective on what you should actually be paying attention to. For more security insights and intelligence-driven analysis, follow The North Group. Chapters 00:00 – Fear, Media, and How It Affects Families 02:15 – Iran Conflict and What It Means for Americans 04:30 – Real Threat vs Media Hype 07:10 – Practical Security and Everyday Preparedness 10:20 – Information Warfare and Controlling the Narrative

February 28, 2026Episode 858 min

The Jayme Closs Abduction: 88 Days of Horror and Survival

This survival story dives deep into the shocking kidnapping of Jayme Closs, a missing girl whose case gripped the true crime community and stunned the nation. In October 2018, 13-year-old Jayme Closs was abducted from her Wisconsin home after a violent home invasion that left both of her parents dead. What followed was an intense investigation, a nationwide search, and 88 days of captivity that became one of the most talked-about true crime cases in recent history. This cinematic narration explores how Jayme Closs survived, how she escaped, and how the criminal justice system ultimately brought her captor to justice. From the initial investigation and missing persons alerts to the courtroom sentencing and aftermath, this episode walks through the full timeline of a case that captivated true crime junkies, true crime obsessed audiences, and true crime podcasts around the world. Designed for true crime fans and those fascinated by law and crime, this episode highlights the psychological strength required to survive a kidnapping, the realities behind missing children cases, and the role of awareness and resilience in life-threatening situations. If you are a true crime addict, a fan of Prime Crime-style storytelling, or someone who follows unsolved mysteries and missing persons cases, this survival story delivers a powerful and emotional narrative. This episode examines: - The kidnapping and disappearance of Jayme Closs - The investigation and nationwide search - Life in captivity and survival mindset - The court case and criminal justice system outcome This is not just another horror-like true crime story. It is a real account of survival, resilience, and justice. For those who follow true crime books, true crime memes, true crime podcasts, and major missing children cases, this is a story that continues to resonate with the true crime community worldwide. Subscribe for more survival stories, investigations, and true crime episodes exploring real cases and stories that deserve to be told.

February 21, 2026Episode 8427 min

The Real Reason Veterans Struggle After Service: Cognitive Crisis

In this powerful episode of Time to Head North, Vince sits down with cognitive analyst Shelley Bernard to explore the complex realities of the transition from military to civilian life, the impact of long-term trauma exposure, and the evolving conversation around veterans, mental health, psychology, and resilience. Shelley shares how her work began by helping special operations veterans navigate the transition from military to civilian life and why accurate psychological profiling and cognitive analysis are critical for long-term success and survival after service. With rising concerns around suicide rates among veterans and the growing mental health challenges faced by law enforcement and security professionals, this conversation dives deep into trauma healing and how long-term exposure to stress impacts the mind. Together, they explore the psychology behind how veterans process trauma, why traditional personality assessments often fail those in high-risk professions, and how society’s perception of law enforcement and military communities affects mental health outcomes. The discussion also highlights the importance of understanding how the brain processes information, how trauma shapes decision-making, and why better tools for trauma healing and mental health support are needed for veterans and security professionals. This episode offers valuable insights into the psychological challenges that come with the transition from military to civilian life and provides a deeper look at trauma healing, cognitive profiling, and the mental health realities facing veterans, law enforcement, and those working in high-risk environments. If you are interested in psychology, trauma healing, veterans’ mental health, or understanding how the mind adapts after years of high-alert service, this conversation is a must-listen. Time to Head North is presented by The North Group, security refined by intelligence. Chapters 00:00 The Reality of Transition From Military to Civilian Life 02:30 Why Veterans Face Higher Mental Health Risks After Service 07:15 Long-Term Trauma in Veterans and Law Enforcement 13:40 Psychology, Decision-Making, and Trauma Healing 20:10 Building Better Mental Health Support for Veterans

January 26, 2026Episode 8325 min

“America Is Not Ready for This Level of Drone Warfare”: Why Military Strategists Fear Drone Warfare

In this episode of Time to Head North, host Vince Vargas sits down with the Founder of the Wolverines, a volunteer force operating in modern conflict zones including the Ukraine war. This conversation dives deep into modern warfare, the evolution of military tactics, and how drone technology is reshaping the future of combat. The founder explains how the Wolverines train and advise partner forces using FPV drones, UAS platforms, and real-world battlefield experience. From drone reconnaissance and kinetic drone strikes to building a next-generation drone academy inside Ukraine, this episode reveals how weapons, technology, and discipline are redefining military operations in real time. You’ll hear firsthand insight into future warfare, including how modern weapons systems are replacing expendable manpower, why FPV drone builds have become a force multiplier, and how lessons learned overseas directly impact U.S. homeland security. This episode also explores the ethical lines of training, the threat of drone warfare spreading beyond Ukraine, and why modern warfare today feels like World War I and World War III happening at the same time. If you’re interested in military strategy, modern warfare, drone technology, or the future of global conflict, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Chapters 00:00 – Modern Warfare and the Rise of Drone Combat 04:45 – From Volunteers to a Drone Academy in Ukraine 09:20 – FPV Drones, UAS, and Battlefield Innovation 15:50 – Why Drones Are Replacing Soldiers in Future Warfare 21:30 – What the Ukraine War Reveals About Global Security #dronewarfare

January 20, 2026Episode 8223 min

Why Hospital CEOs Need to Rethink Safety Now

When people think about security, they often imagine guards, weapons, or executive protection. But inside hospitals, the real threat is far more complex — workplace aggression and violence in the workplace directed at nurses, doctors, and healthcare staff who are simply trying to help people. In this episode of Time to Head North, presented by The North Group, Vincent “Rocco” Vargas sits down with Nate “Circus” to break down the growing crisis of workplace aggression in healthcare and why nurse safety has become one of the most urgent challenges facing hospitals today. From behavioral health incidents and substance-related violence to domestic disputes and revenge-driven threats, hospitals are uniquely vulnerable environments where violence prevention must be proactive, not reactive. Nate explains how unchecked workplace aggression leads to burnout, injuries, and fear among nurses and frontline staff, and why traditional security models often fail to prevent violence in the workplace. He outlines a layered, intelligence-led approach to violence prevention that protects nurse safety while preserving a welcoming hospital culture for patients and families. You’ll hear how better training, early threat detection, and coordinated response plans can drastically reduce incidents of workplace aggression. Nate also shares a real-world case study where early intervention and intelligence work helped prevent a potentially catastrophic act of violence — underscoring why hospitals must treat violence prevention and nurse safety as core operational priorities. If you work in healthcare leadership, nursing, hospital operations, or employee safety — or if you want to understand how hospitals can reduce violence in the workplace — this conversation offers real insight into what actually works. For organizations seeking better violence prevention strategies and improved nurse safety, contact The North Group to learn more. 00:00 – Why Workplace Aggression Is Rising in Healthcare 03:00 – How Violence in the Workplace Impacts Nurse Safety 06:15 – Hidden Threats Hospitals Don’t Prepare For 09:40 – Proactive Violence Prevention vs Reactive Security 13:45 – Case Study: Stopping a Violent Incident Before It Happened 18:30 – Building Safer Hospitals That Protect Nurses and Staff

December 14, 2025Episode 8126 min

Don’t be a target: How Families Stay Safe During the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, crowded malls, package deliveries, and busy public spaces create new risks for families. In this episode of Time to Head North, host Vincent “Rocco” Vargas sits down with Johnny “JC”, a former Marine, law enforcement officer, SWAT team member, and high-threat protection instructor, to break down practical, real-world strategies for staying safe during the holidays. Johnny shares lessons learned from years of military service, policing, overseas diplomatic protection, and executive security. Together, they discuss how mindset, situational awareness, and simple preventative habits can dramatically reduce risk for you and your loved ones. This conversation focuses on protecting what matters most—your family—without fear, paranoia, or overcomplication. Topics covered include how criminals choose soft targets, why mindset matters more than gear, how to shop safely in crowded malls, parking lot awareness, walking to your car at night, protecting packages from theft, home security basics, and teaching kids situational awareness without creating anxiety. Johnny also explains why deterrence, lighting, numbers, and awareness are often more effective than confrontation. This episode is designed for everyday families who want clear, actionable guidance they can use immediately during the holiday season. Whether you’re shopping, traveling, or at home with family, this conversation will help you think differently about personal safety and security. Time to Head North is brought to you by The North Group — security refined by intelligence.

November 18, 2025Episode 8039 min

Are We Failing Our Kids? A Substance Abuse Counselor Speaks Out

Raising kids in today’s world is harder than ever: social media, school pressures, bullying, isolation, and rising mental health challenges. In this episode of Time to Head North, hosted by Vincent “Rocco” Vargas, we sit down with David Morantes, a social worker and substance abuse counselor, to talk about how parents can better support their kids before things reach a crisis point. David shares his journey from wanting to be a police officer to becoming a master’s-level social worker, addiction counselor, and youth wrestling coach. Together, he and Vince dive into how community, honest conversations, and healthy structure at home can protect kids from feeling alienated, acting out, or slipping into dangerous behaviors. You’ll hear real talk on: How sports, clubs, and community activities help kids feel like they belong Why some kids feel isolated and how that can lead to risky choices or violence How to spot subtle changes in your child’s mood, behavior, or social patterns Why “practice begets mastery” applies to emotions, resilience, and self-worth How dads and moms parent differently—and why kids actually need both The impact of social media, cyberbullying, and the loss of face-to-face accountability Practical ways to talk to your kids about drugs, sex, friends, and pressure at school How simple things like hugs, touch, and one-on-one time build deep trust If you’re a parent, coach, teacher, or anyone who works with kids, this conversation is a powerful reminder: Make your kids feel heard. Make your kids feel loved. That is one of the strongest foundations for mental health, resilience, and school safety. Time to Head North is brought to you by The North Group – security refined by intelligence.

October 23, 2025Episode 791 hr 10 min

Disinformation is OUR greatest threat: How to Fight Back?

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/

September 27, 2025Episode 7843 min

Cartels, Drones & Deepfakes: Modern Threats You’re Not Ready For

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 deepfake 03:05 Quantum computing + ML: what banks and enterprises should expect 04:34 Bot farms, narrative ops, and the power of short-form manipulation 05:58 Voice cloning, image theft, and social-engineered “FaceTime” scams 08:20 Who’s most vulnerable online — and why 12:05 Cartels, cyber, and drones: lessons from modern conflict zones 20:00 Radicalization, grievance, and lone-actor risk 28:00 Practical family safety and situational awareness 33:40 School security: access control, SROs, and training that sticks 40:30 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 Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevehernandeztng/ Website: https://tngdefense.com/

September 18, 2025Episode 7738 min

Everyday Safety Strategies: Practical Tips for Parents and Women

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.