Beyond the Threshold™

Beyond the Threshold Podcast | Ep 6 | Evolving Safety in Healthcare: Risks, Realities and Responses

In our sixth podcast episode of Beyond the Threshold™, Evolving Safety in Healthcare: Risks, Realities and Responses, Jason Grellner, a seasoned law enforcement veteran turned healthcare security leader, shares his deep-rooted experience in addressing safety and security challenges in hospitals. With over two decades in narcotics enforcement before transitioning to healthcare, Jason brings a unique perspective to the evolving risks facing medical facilities. At Mercy, his responsibilities spanned pre- and post-pandemic environments, offering firsthand insight into how threats have changed, intensified, and impacted both medical staff and patient care environments.
Jason discusses the alarming rise in violence within healthcare facilities, pointing to recent national incidents as examples of a growing trend. He outlines the different types of violence, from physical altercations to armed intrusions, emphasizing how these threats put immense strain on frontline workers. He also explains how hospitals are responding—with layered strategies that include both proactive and reactive security measures—while balancing the need for a welcoming, healing environment.
The episode wraps with practical guidance for hospital security professionals. Jason identifies the top three areas of risk leaders should focus on immediately, suggests reliable sources for ongoing learning, and shares personal advice for those looking to grow their careers in healthcare security. His message encourages continuous improvement, vigilance, and a strong commitment to protecting those who care for others.
3 Key Takeaways:
Violence in healthcare is on the rise, with hospitals facing more complex threats post-pandemic—from disruptive visitors to the increased presence of weapons in facilities.
Security strategies must evolve to balance safety and openness, integrating technology, training, and awareness to effectively prevent and respond to incidents.
Ongoing education and professional development are crucial for hospital security professionals—knowing where to get trustworthy threat information and continuously honing leadership skills can make all the difference.

Beyond the Threshold Podcast | Ep 5 | The Intersection of Law Enforcement & Technology

In this episode of Beyond the Threshold™, host Anil Chitkara sits down with retired NYPD Deputy Inspector Dominick D’Orazio at the 2024 IACP show to discuss the evolving role of technology in law enforcement and security. With nearly 25 years of experience, Dom shares insights from his career, emphasizing the importance of both human expertise and technological advancements in public safety. He highlights how policing has changed over time, with tools like real-time analytics, drones, and AI-powered solutions enhancing efficiency, officer safety, and crime prevention.
The conversation also explores the challenges and opportunities that security professionals face when integrating new technology. Dom stresses the importance of a holistic approach, where agencies avoid fragmented systems and focus on interagency communication. He also underscores the role of transparency and community engagement in building trust when implementing new security measures. As cities continue to battle gun violence and staffing shortages, the right blend of proactive policing strategies and innovative technology can create safer environments for everyone.
Key Takeaways:
Technology Enhances but Doesn’t Replace Human Expertise – While AI, analytics, and surveillance tools improve efficiency and safety, law enforcement officers’ intuition and decision-making remain critical.
Holistic Security Strategies Are Essential – Agencies must ensure that new technologies integrate seamlessly and communicate effectively to maximize their impact.
Community Engagement Builds Trust – Transparency about policing strategies and security technologies fosters public trust and ensures that safety measures are well-received.

Beyond the Threshold Podcast | Ep 4 | Tech for Good: How School Safety Innovations are shaping safer, supportive learning environments

Introduction
School safety and security have become increasingly complex issues, requiring the collaboration of entire communities—families, educators, students, and local authorities. As school administrators navigate this evolving landscape, they must balance multiple considerations, from physical security measures to fostering a culture of safety. With the rise of threats in schools, administrators are turning to a range of resources, including law enforcement, peer districts, security professionals, and emerging technologies, to develop comprehensive safety strategies.
In our fourth Beyond the Threshold™ podcast episode, Anil Chitkara, Evolv's Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer sits down with Jill Lemond, Evolv's VP of Education, to explore the key factors shaping school safety today, including the role of community involvement, the importance of peer learning, and the effectiveness of different security measures. From understanding the distinctions between gunshot detection, brandished weapons detection, and concealed weapons detection to evaluating the legitimacy of security consultants, schools must take a thoughtful and informed approach to their security planning. Beyond technology and procedures, fostering a culture of safety remains crucial in creating environments where students and staff feel both protected and empowered.
Key Takeaways
The Power of Community in School Safety – Effective school security extends beyond administrators; it involves collaboration with parents, local law enforcement, educators, and students. Engaging the broader community ensures that safety measures align with the unique needs and concerns of each school.
Learning from Peer Districts – Schools facing security decisions can benefit from the experiences of peer districts that have implemented or opted against specific security measures. These shared insights help administrators make informed choices based on real-world applications and outcomes.
Understanding and Implementing Security Technologies – From gunshot detection to brandished and concealed weapons detection, different technologies serve distinct purposes in enhancing school safety. Schools must evaluate their unique security needs before selecting and implementing the right solutions.
Building a Culture of Safety – Beyond security infrastructure, fostering a culture of safety is critical. Schools that successfully integrate security measures with trust-building and proactive safety education create environments where students and staff feel both secure and supported.

Beyond the Threshold Podcast | Ep 3 | Beyond the Game or Event: Elevating the Fan Experience in Sports & Entertainment Venues

In this episode of Beyond the Threshold™, hosted by Evolv’s co-founder Anil Chitkara, John Baier, head of sports and entertainment at Evolv, shares insights on how technology is transforming the fan experience in sports and entertainment venues. Drawing from his years of experience, including time with the New York Islanders and Brooklyn Nets, John highlights the evolution of venues to meet modern fan expectations, focusing on safety, convenience, and engagement. The conversation explores how innovations like frictionless screening, mobile ticketing, and biometric solutions are reshaping the "street-to-seat" journey, offering fans a seamless, tech-enhanced experience. Additionally, John discusses the growing trend of multi-use sports complexes, emphasizing the need for consistent safety measures across expanded entertainment campuses.
Looking ahead, John envisions sports venues as destinations, blending technology with physical design to create vibrant environments that keep visitors engaged beyond the game. From reducing entry-line anxiety with advanced screening technology to offering personalized fan experiences via apps, teams and operators are embracing innovation to stay competitive against at-home viewing options. With a focus on the future, John underscores how evolving technologies and campus-style developments will set a new standard for fan expectations in sports and entertainment.
Key Takeaways
Technology Enhances Fan Experience: Frictionless security screening, mobile ticketing, and biometric solutions streamline the "street-to-seat" journey, creating a safer, more convenient, and engaging experience for fans.
Multi-Use Complexes Are the Future: Sports venues are evolving into expansive campuses that include retail, dining, and entertainment options, turning game day into a full-day experience and requiring consistent security across the complex.
Competition with At-Home Viewing: To compete with advanced at-home viewing experiences, venues must focus on everything beyond the game itself, including personalized fan experiences, seamless access, and flexible ticketing options.

Beyond the Threshold Podcast | Ep 2 | Navigating the Future of Security: Insights for Security Professionals

Recorded at GSX Orlando 2024, Beyond the Threshold™ episode two features Anil Chitkara, Evolv co-founder, in conversation with Chuck Andrews, founder of Friends of Chuck (FOC). FOC is an extensively broad network of 100,000+ security professionals across the globe.
Together, they discuss how technology, AI, and industry collaboration are reshaping security strategies, the importance of hands-on testing for security solutions, and the need for continuous learning to stay ahead in this dynamic field.
Key Takeaways for Listeners:
Evolving Security Strategies: Learn how advancements in AI and technology are transforming security approaches across various industries and environments.
The Role of Collaboration: Understand why partnerships between private security and law enforcement are critical for creating safer communities.
Personal Development in Security: Explore how certifications, continuous education, and global perspectives can enhance the skills and impact of security professionals.

Beyond the Threshold Podcast | Ep 1 | 2025 Predictions: The Future of Physical Security and AI Innovation

Evolv Technology Founders Anil Chitkara and Mike Ellenbogen sit down to discuss the future of physical security and AI innovation from 2025 and beyond.  In this episode they cover:
Deep dive into the evolving world of physical security – from the latest in AI-based technologies to the concept of layered security.
Insights into how advanced solutions are reshaping the boundaries of safety and protection.
What it means to secure spaces “beyond the threshold” exploring the potential of predictive analytics and how tools are transforming threat detection and response.
Predictions for 2025 and beyond.