"When I was the Director of Central Intelligence, I relied on Mike and his colleagues to keep me and my family safe around the world." - George Tenet Former Director Central Intelligence Agency Close personal protection can often mean the difference between life and death. But for too many protectees or practitioners, understanding the world of executive protection (EP) can be an intimidating and unfamiliar prospect. The Protected is an inside view of personal security, intelligence and executive protection written by someone who has lived it for more than 30 years. In this book, former CIA Special Agent and security specialist Michael Trott demonstrates how much EP depends on training, experience, proper intelligence, lessons learned, one's ability to operate both alone and in a team, and - perhaps most importantly - adopting the proper mindset. Aimed at protectees, practitioners and all those with an interest in EP, The Protected contains valuable insight on: - Determining your personal risk profile (i.e., your why) - How the global risk environment affects your personal security - Establishing a durable and effective protection program - The subtle nuances of providing successful close protection - Important EP methodologies, philosophies, complexities and mindsets - The people who protect others and their unique perspectives "The world can be a dangerous place. Whether you are a senior government official, business leader or a celebrity, you need highly-trained people to watch your back. When I was Director of Central Intelligence, I relied on Mike and his colleagues to keep me and my family safe around the world. In The Protected , Mike provides invaluable insights and intelligent perspectives into the world of personal protection." George Tenet, Former Director, Central Intelligence Agency " The Protected clearly illustrates both the rewards and risks that come with our growing reliance on technology to aid in protection. Mike's detailed and insightful look at cybersecurity makes this a must-read for those in the world of Executive Protection." Marie O'Neill Sciarrone, Former Special Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Senior Director for Cybersecurity and Information Sharing Policy "A thought-provoking look into the world of protecting VIP's. Trott has done a wonderful job in laying out what you need to think about in putting together a protection team for your family or company. The Protected shines a light on the good and bad of the business." Fred Burton, New York Times best-selling author, Former Special Agent, U.S. State Department, Diplomatic Security "Mike's years of experience and knowledge of security drivers are both evident in his book. The chapter on security driving effectively outlines the risks associated with executive transportation, and Mike defines those risks and offers suggestions on how they can be mitigated. In my opinion, The Protected is a must-read for all involved in secure transportation." Tony Scotti, Executive Vice President, Vehicle Dynamics Institute, and Founder, International Security Driver Association " The Protected provides an in-depth and relatable view of the many challenges concerning the ever-changing complexities of protecting individuals. Even though executive protection can be very complicated, Mike's insight, experience and clarity provide an excellent protective operational resource for the profession. His interesting reflections add a depth of perspective which also remind us of our own experiences." Bill Hackenson, Supervisory Special Agent, U.S. Secret Service (Ret.) The Protected also offers a rare behind-the-scenes view of what it really means to provide EP by blending personal accounts from Michael's lifetime spent protecting others. His candid stories and reflections range from the inspirational to the heart-pounding - to the downright humorous. You'll learn about the "wake-up call" that launched his career, what drove him to serve, and his thoughts on what the future holds for protectors and protectees. A thorough, honest and contemplative look at close protection, The Protected is a fascinating journey for all readers and will be a valuable resource for those interested in EP for years to come. Michael W. Trott is a respected and accomplished international security professional with over 30 years of experience. He has served as a U.S. Air Force Security Specialist and Special Agent with the CIA, worked for Fortune 100 corporations and protected ultra high net worth families. He continues to provide confidential advice and assistance to a diverse group of international clientele on matters of close protection, intelligence and security. Jacket art design: Alexander Von Ness Author photograph: Cheryl Trott ArchwayPublishing.com/theprotected theprotected.us