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Verkada Launches 'Vantage Points'

Verkada, recognized as a frontrunner in the realm of AI-enhanced physical security, recently announced the inception of its latest initiative: a podcast series and newsletter dubbed "Vantage Points." This exciting series is co-hosted by Michael Evanoff, the Global Chief Security Officer at Verkada, alongside Cari Guittard, who specializes in Homeland Security and Geopolitical Risk.

In the introductory episode, the duo welcomes Pat Hamilton, the Alliance Director for The “I Love U Guys” Foundation. Together, they delve into the critical topic of school safety, discussing the significance of locked doors and the essential steps needed to cultivate a culture of safety within educational institutions. The “I Love U Guys” Foundation was notably founded in the wake of a tragic school shooting that claimed the life of Emily Keyes, the daughter of the organization’s founders, Ellen and John-Michael Keyes. This poignant history serves as a backdrop for vital conversations on safety measures that could potentially save lives.

The podcast aspires to engage with influential figures and industry experts, providing in-depth analysis and discourse concerning the constantly evolving landscape of security. Each episode aims to tackle the dual responsibilities of modern security, concentrating on both safeguarding individuals and ensuring the protection of places while leveraging integrated technology to enhance operational efficiency.

Michael Evanoff emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, “Keeping pace with the rapidly evolving threat landscape is one of the greatest challenges facing today's security leaders. 'Vantage Points' will serve as a vital, actionable resource. By discussing challenges and triumphs with preeminent industry figures, we will provide viewers with unique insights and strategic knowledge they can use to protect the people, assets, and operations they manage.”

Adding to this, Cari Guittard expresses her enthusiasm about collaborating with Evanoff. She notes, “Between serving in high-threat posts around the world, corporate boardrooms, and local emergency operations, we've worked at every level. Our discussions will focus on adapting to emerging threats while also envisaging future challenges — 5-10 years ahead. This requires not just strategy and creativity but also the courage to lead differently, which is exactly what our guests bring to the table.”

The podcast intends to connect disparate security innovations that seldom intersect, thereby offering fresh perspectives and a deeper understanding of contemporary security challenges. Trusted by over 30,000 customers globally, including a significant number among the Fortune 500, Verkada's 'Vantage Points' aligns seamlessly with its mission of fostering safer environments in a privacy-respecting manner.

Looking forward, upcoming episodes are set to feature insights from various esteemed guests, including:

• - Read Hayes, Ph.D. – Director of the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC) and Research Scientist at The University of Florida.
• - Greg Suhr – Director of Safety, Security, and Government Relations for BXP at Salesforce Tower and Former Chief of Police for the San Francisco Police Department.
• - David Johnston – Vice President of Asset Protection and Retail Operations for the National Retail Federation.
• - Ron Kornblum – Director of Global Security for Canada Goose.

Listeners can subscribe, watch, and listen to 'Vantage Points' across various platforms, including Substack, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and the Verkada YouTube channel.

About Verkada

Designed for simplicity, Verkada's diverse product lines — encompassing video security cameras, access control, environmental sensors, alarms, workplace solutions, and intercoms — offer unparalleled building security through a cohesive, secure cloud-based software platform. With a growing network of over 30,000 organizations spread across 93 countries, Verkada stands as a trusted entity in the sphere of physical security, facilitating intelligent control and scalable solutions. To learn more, visit www.verkada.com.