Home Podcasts Nightlife Security Podcast | The Nightlife and Bar Security Resource for Security Professionals, Owners, & Operators

Nightlife Security Podcast | The Nightlife and Bar Security Resource for Security Professionals, Owners, & Operators

Nightlife Security Consultants, LLC 34 Episodes Jul 2, 2026

The Nightlife Security Podcast is a resource for hospitality security professionals, bar owners, and operators. Hosted by Manny Marquez and featuring industry expert Robert C. Smith, the show covers topics related to nightlife and bar security. It provides insights and best practices for managing safety in bars and clubs.

Episodes

Ep. 034 - The Real Cost of Cheap Security Jul 2, 2026 30:06 In this episode of the Nightlife Security Podcast, host Manny Marquez and Dr. Richard Bistline explore the real cost of cheap security in nightclubs, bars, and hospitality venues. The NSC team breaks down the real risks faced by hospitality security, from violence and intoxication to active shooter and active assailant threats, and why treating security as a low-paying, entry-level role is a dange

Ep. 033 - Hospitality Security Planning for Violent Incidents and Active Threats Jun 3, 2026 39:39 Hospitality venues are soft targets. Most operators know it - and most still don't have a plan. That gap is exactly what this episode is about. Not fear. Not worst-case paralysis. The practical, uncomfortable conversation that too many venues keep postponing: what happens when an active threat walks through your doors? We get into what preparedness actually looks like in a hospitality context -

Ep. 032 - Five Mistakes By Security Apr 23, 2026 31:01 In this episode of the Nightlife Security Podcast, host Manny Marquez and Dr. Richard Bistline reveal five common mistakes nightlife and hospitality security teams make that lead to lawsuits, injuries, and unnecessary risk. Using real expert witness case examples, they explain why chasing guests outside the venue, snatching drinks from customers, and removing fighting parties at the same time can

Ep. 031 - Fake Id's Lead to Real Consequences Mar 3, 2026 32:06 This episode of the Nightlife Security Podcast, host Manny Marquez and expert Dr. Richard Bistline, examines how fake IDs in college-town nightlife environments can lead to serious legal, financial, and life‑safety consequences for hospitality venues. Using the Tempe Tavern case as the core example—two major raids in 2025, hundreds of underage drinkers, and a fatal DUI crash tied back to the ve

Ep. 030 - Hospitality & Liability from the Lens of an Expert Witness Jan 16, 2026 48:29 In this episode of the Nightlife Security Podcast, host Manny Marquez and Dr. Richard Bistline examine hospitality liability through the lens of an expert witness. They break down how incidents evolve into claims, what attorneys look for, and how operational decisions, documentation, training, and policies are scrutinized after the fact. The conversation highlights common failures seen in litigati

Ep. 029 - Hospitality Security Customer Service Apr 28, 2025 29:16 In this episode of the Nightlife Security Podcast, host Manny Marquez and Dr. Richard Bistline discuss the critical role of customer service in security operations. They explore how security personnel can enhance guest experiences by shifting from a traditional "command and control" approach to a more welcoming, proactive strategy. The conversation covers hiring diverse teams, training staff, crea

Ep. 028 5 - Simple Steps to Improve Your Report Writing Jun 23, 2023 47:43 Security report writing is often a challenging task for security team members. In this episode expert Robert C. Smith and host Manny Marquez discuss five simple steps you can take to greatly improve your report writing skills.

Ep. 027 - Limit Your Personal Liability Apr 27, 2023 47:38 As a security guard, you may have asked yourself, "Can I be personally liable if _________(fill in the blank)"? "Can I be sued if ….?" The answer is always "YES." Learn how to limit your personal liability by listening to this episode of The Nightlife Security Podcast. In this episode, expert Robert C. Smith and host Manny Marquez discuss what liability guards are exposed to and how to limit poten

Ep. 026 - "Last Call' - Best Practices Feb 17, 2023 34:51 The conclusion of a night of revelry is often signaled by the "last call," a critical juncture for both hospitality staff and patrons. While it marks the end of the workday for employees, for customers, it is the last opportunity to indulge in the evening's festivities. However, if not managed correctly, it can also be a time of heightened risk, leading to potential legal issues and liability. In

Ep. 025 - Active Shooter In Your Venue? Plan on it Happening! Nov 26, 2022 29:24 The time to plan and train for an active shooter situation in your venue is now! Listen to NSC's team of Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez discuss the mass shooting in Colorado Springs Club Q and how venue operators should use this event as one more lesson to train your team today. While it is highly unlikely your venue will ever experience an active or mass shooter situation, why not plan and pre

Ep. 024 - Overcoming Security Hiring Challenges Sep 11, 2022 37:23 Hiring hospitality security guards can be challenging, especially in a post-COVID era. Listen to NSC's team members Richard Bistline, Ph.D., and Manny Marquez discuss how to find, retain, and maintain hospitality security professionals.

Ep. 023 - Responsible Alcohol Beverage Service Mar 13, 2021 39:57 Responsible Alcohol Service is an ongoing effort for many hospitality operators. It requires constant attention, a solid training program, and sound policies and procedures. Listen as Manny interviews Robert Pomplun, Chief Learning Officer & Founder of Serving Alcohol Inc. Serving Alcohol Inc offers comprehensive online training solutions for hospitality operators.

Ep. 022 - COVID-19 Edition | Enforcing Face Masks and Non-compliant Guests Jul 25, 2020 34:38 Operating a hospitality venue during COVID-19 and mandating patrons wear face masks creates many challenges for operators, especially when some of our guests refuse to abide by the rules. As operators, it is our responsibility to protect our team members and our guests against the spread of COVID-19. Having clear guidelines, policies, and operating procedures in place is a must. Then, we must trai

Ep. 021 - Alcohol and Bar Related Sexual Assault Dec 21, 2014 46:36 Knowing the difference between witnessing the normal behavior of a casual hook-up and preventing a sexual assault can sometimes be a difficult task. There are fine lines and subtleties that the novice guard may not recognize. When do you step in if you suspect there is potential for an assault to take place? Listen and learn some more about what Robert and Manny have to say about detection, preve

Ep. 020 - When There is No Need to Hurry, Don't Hurry! Nov 1, 2014 44:21 Often times, security guards rush into a situation where there is really no need to. Of course, if someone is in harms way or the circumstances call for it, by all means - hurry! Many times those urgent situations are the exception and are few and far between for guards. Most situations do not need to be rushed. Get your plan in place - analyze the situation - consult with your peers - and de

Ep. 019 - How to Deal with Drugs in Your Club Jul 27, 2014 56:03 Do you have an issue with drugs in your club? Chances are drugs are present and are being used by both your guests and employees. Some owners may be oblivious, some may be aware, or worse some may deny they are present. In this episode we talk about steps to take to help you confront, deal with, and curtail the use of drugs within the walls of your establishment.

Ep. 018 - How Many Security Guards Should You Have? May 19, 2014 54:26 Just how many security guards should your venue have on staff at any given time? We here at Nightclub Security Consultants get asked that question often. In this episode we give you some great guidelines on determining just how you should staff your security team.[...]

Ep. 017 - Should You Have Armed Security in Your Venue Apr 28, 2014 01:00:32 Should You Have Armed Security at Your Venue? Robert and Manny discuss this sometimes challenging and controversial topic. We find that the trend in the industry is that things are getting more violent for bar and club owners. Are you thinking about hiring an armed guard? What are some of the reasons to consider hiring an arm guard for your venue? If you decide to hire arm guards what are some of

Ep. 016 - Interview of Chris Lenahan author of "The Little Black Bar Book" Apr 20, 2014 58:32 Flip-flops | Interview of Chris Lenahan of OpeningABar.com Live from The Nightclub & Bar Show 2014, we interview Chris Lenahan, Nightclub Design Expert, Author of The Little Black Bar Book, and creator of My Venue Tracker. Shout-outs! Thanks to Joachim for the great feedback. "...By now I've read every one of your blogs, listened to all the podcasts (At this point a huge thank you for

Ep. 015 - NCB Show 2014 | Interview of Dave Eames Pres. Black Diamond Radio Apr 11, 2014 56:42 NCB Show 2014 | Interview of Dave Eames Pres. Black Diamond Radio In this show Robert and Manny recap thier experience at the 2014 Nightclub and Bar Show and Interview the President and CEO of Black Diamond Radio, Dave Eames. Shout-outs! Thanks to Big Wangs, Loaded Hollywood , EagleLA, and Lure for attending our California PSO Training event in Los Angeles hosted by Loaded Hollywood. Special than

Ep. 014 - Understanding Legal Use of Force | Pre Nightclub & Bar Show 2014 Mar 21, 2014 53:23 Understanding Legal Use of Force "Part 2 of 3" | Pre Nightclub & Bar Show 2014 This is part 2 of a 3 part multimedia series in conjunction with Bar Biz Magazine and Nightclub & Bar Show 2014. This episode we discuss the very important topic of understanding legal use of force by venue security and how to limit your liability and avoid unwanted and costly issues. Too often owners and guards find

Ep. 013 - Confiscating Fake or Borrowed IDs Mar 19, 2014 53:38 Soup to Nuts | Confiscating Fake or Borrowed IDs Is it legal for a doorman or alcohol service worker to confiscate a fake or borrowed ID? Robert and Manny address this often confusing and controversial topic and clear the air on what your legal right is. Manny introduces Robert to the term "soup to nuts". Shout-outs! NSC says thank you to Double Deuce and Whiskey Girl of San Diego for becomin

Ep. 012 - Dress Code for Your Venue Mar 3, 2014 46:49 Dress Code for Your Venue | Brian Rizzo Shot Dress Code for your venue! Do you have one? Having trouble with your current dress code policy? Are you considering one? Robert and Manny discuss important considerations, best practices, and some commonsense policy when it comes to a dress code for your bar or nightclub. Shout-outs! Sycamore Den – San Diego – NSC would like to say thank you to Eric

Ep. 011 - Justin Bieber | Terrorism Awareness | Nightclub and Bar Show 2014 Feb 7, 2014 51:29 Justin Bieber | Terrorism Awareness | Nightclub and Bar Show 2014 Justin Bieber in the news – what does that mean for nightclub security and liability? Robert and Manny start the discussion on terrorism and the nightclub and bar industry. We figure it is time to ask the question of when are going to start talking about it? Also, the Nightclub and Bar Show is coming up in March, are you going? Th

Ep. 010 - Handcuffs and Nightclub Bar Security Jan 2, 2014 49:05 Handcuffs and Nightclub Bar Security Does your security team use handcuffs? Are you considering the use of handcuffs for your security team? Robert and Manny discuss what you need to know about their use and important considerations when using them. Shout-outs! Special thank you to General Manager Jeff Wylie at AKBAR of Los Angeles and his team for their hospitality in hosting our most recent C

Ep. 009 - Video Surveillance Cameras and Nightclub Bar Security Dec 16, 2013 01:01:23 Video Surveillance Cameras and Nightclub Bar Security Do you currently utilize video cameras in your venue? Are you thinking about installing them? Robert and Manny discuss the good, the bad, and the best practices surrounding video surveillance cameras in your bar or nightclub. Shout-outs! Special thank you to Sean Mattix, Food and Beverage Director, and the team of the San Diego Marriott Gasl

Ep. 008 - Should Police Officers Work as Doormen at Bars and Nightclubs? Dec 2, 2013 54:13 Should Police Officers Work as Doormen at Bars and Nightclubs? Robert and Manny explore the question of whether or not off-duty police officers should work as doormen at bars or nightclubs. This is a follow up to Robert C. Smith’s blog on the same topic. You can see that blog titled "Cops as Guards" here. There are several pros and cons. Listen to what we have to say about it in this week’s podc

Ep. 007 - Security Customer Service - 5+5 Powerful Tips from Robert and Manny Oct 9, 2013 01:10:45 Security Customer Service - 5+5 Powerful Tips from Robert and Manny Customer Service is at the core of any hospitality business - and it is only a venue’s team that can deliver a personal touch that keeps guests coming back. Your security team is an integral part of delivering a favorable guest experience - but many times they are the cause of a negative one. Not only is a hospitable team good f

Ep. 006 - Hiring Security Guards - Best Practices Sep 25, 2013 01:07:52 Hiring Security – Best Practices Hiring the right people for your organization is never easy. Hiring the right security guard is even more difficult! You need to find the right individual to protect your guests and your business without causing more potential liability in an environment where lawsuits are already prominent. In this week’s show, Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez discuss the best

Ep. 005 - How to Document a Major Incident in Your Venue Sep 8, 2013 59:26 In this week’s show, Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez discuss the importance of documentation and How to Document a Major Incident in Your Venue…and much more. In The News! Robert and Manny discuss a recent news story from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, where a bouncer that appeared in a viral video of a brawl at a beach front bar has been arrested and charged with felony battery. The guys talk about

Ep. 004 - 6 Important Tips to Manage a Major Violent Incident in Your Venue Aug 7, 2013 49:40 In this week’s show, Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez discuss 6 Important Tips to Managing a Major Violent Incident in Your Venue. In The News! Robert and Manny discus a recent story where the City of Scottsdale, Arizona is proposing strict new policies for bars and nightclubs. The proposal from the city comes on the heels of two recent killings at a popular Scottsdale nightclub. Just a remind

Ep. 003 - Nightclub and Bar Security Civil Liability Part 2 Jul 31, 2013 45:14 In this week’s show, Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez discuss the important topic of Nightclub and Bar Civil Liability – Part 2, the follow up to last episode to Nightclub and Bar Civil Liability Part 1. We are happy to see that we are getting downloads for across the globe - from Alaska to Australia. Very exciting for us! Please share us with industry friends, co-workers, and colleagues. Your

Ep. 002 - Nightclub and Bar Security Civil Liability Part 1 Jun 26, 2013 01:00:18 In this week’s show, Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez discuss the important topic of Nightclub and Bar Civil Liability, a topic that many of us don't think about until we are in the midst of a lawsuit or litigation. Just a reminder before listening in - Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez are NOT attorneys. The information they share in the podcast is general advice and shouldn't replace specific,

Ep. 001 - Nightclub Security Inaugural Podcast Jun 17, 2013 44:01 Welcome to our inaugural Nightclub Security weekly podcast! In this episode, you will get to know our hosts, Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez, as they introduce themselves in this educational and entertaining podcast. If you are a nightclub bouncer, guard, owner, or operator this is the podcast for you. During this introductory session, meet Robert and Manny and hear about their backgrounds in

Nightlife Security Podcast | The Nightlife and Bar Security Resource for Security Professionals, Owners, & Operators

Episodes

Recommended