Pickpocket Gene

08/28/2026

You can’t eliminate every risk—but you can reduce it.

💡: In risk management, what’s the difference between mitigating a risk and eliminating it?

Mitigation is about taking practical steps to reduce the likelihood or impact of something going wrong.

08/27/2026

Can You Trust What You See and Hear?

Criminals are using AI voices, deepfakes, and fake identities to exploit trust. Stop, verify, then act.

For years we've been told: "Believe your eyes." "Believe your ears.

08/17/2026

My latest article in MEET Missouri looks at how easily distraction can create security risks—and how a few simple awareness strategies can help protect you and your valuables at meetings, events, and other crowded environments.

Check it out on page 22 of the latest issue!

Created with the Heyzine flipbook maker

08/13/2026

I had a great time presenting at the 2026 D.A.R.E. Officers Training Conference last week!

I shared a little of my “Magic with a Message” approach—using magic, comedy, and pickpocketing demonstrations to illustrate some very serious lessons about distraction, decision-making, online safety, personal safety, and how easily we can be influenced or manipulated when we’re not paying attention.

One of the points I emphasized is that kids don’t always make poor decisions because they don’t know better. Sometimes they’re distracted, curious, trusting, trying to fit in, or being manipulated by someone who knows how to take advantage of those things. Those same principles apply both online and in the real world.

I had some terrific D.A.R.E. officers helping me on stage and really enjoyed the opportunity to demonstrate how entertainment can help make an important message memorable.

Thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and made me feel so welcome. I look forward to sharing more Magic with a Message with D.A.R.E. programs, schools, educators, students, and other organizations in the future!

08/12/2026

TRIVIA TIME: Can risk ever be completely eliminated?

A. Yes
B. No

Answer: B — No.

Even after safeguards are put in place, some risk usually remains. That’s called Residual Risk.

Good risk management isn’t about eliminating every risk—it’s about reducing risk to an acceptable level and understanding what remains.

07/23/2026

I had a great time attending another Kansas City AI Club event!

One of the highlights was visiting with the exhibitors and learning how each company is using AI to solve real business problems. Every conversation sparked new ideas about ways AI can improve productivity, save time, and create new opportunities.

It was also great reconnecting with friends from previous events and meeting many new people. The AI community is growing quickly, and there's so much we can learn from one another.

One reminder, though: As you embrace AI, don't forget about security. Take a few minutes to review your AI app's privacy settings and understand what information it may store, use for training, or share. AI is an incredible tool—but like any powerful technology, it should be used wisely and securely.

I'm already looking forward to the next event!

07/21/2026

Your Smart Doorbell Could Be a Cybersecurity Risk

Protect your home from both physical and digital intruders.

Your Smart Doorbell Could Be a Cybersecurity Risk Protect your home from both physical and digital intruders.

07/14/2026

❓Question of the Day:
If a burglar gets past your front door, what would you rather have?

A. Nothing else is protecting you.
B. An alarm, cameras, motion sensors, strong interior locks, and a safe. ✅

That's exactly how Defense in Depth works in cybersecurity and physical security—multiple layers working together to reduce risk.

07/10/2026

I had a great time delivering my Teamwork keynote to employees at the City of Odessa, MO. I had some great helpers on stage helping me illustrate teamwork, communication, perspective, and taking action. The K-9 handler helped me on stage, and when a ball dropped to the floor, the dog looked at it longingly. The handler gave it one look, and the dog sat down grudgingly.

It was fun illustrating key points with magic and showing how we all have different perspectives.