Behind the Screens: Conversations with Background Screening Pros hosted by Les Rosen

Les Rosen
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"Behind the Screens" is a podcast that brings you up close and personal with the people in the background screening industry. Hosted by Les Rosen, each episode features in-depth, human-interest interviews with a diverse range of guests—including business executives, employees with extensive screening experience, vendors who serve the industry, and legal and compliance experts. These conversations dive into the personal stories and insights of those who know the industry best, offering a fresh perspective on the people driving background screening. Whether you are part of the industry or just curious, "Behind the Screens" delivers authentic, non-marketing-focused stories from the world of background checks.Your host:  Les Rosen is an Attorney, former owner of a screening firm, the chair of the steering committee that founded PBSA and the first co-chair of PBSA, as well as author of the "Safe Hiring Manual," and frequent presenter nationwide. According to attorney and industry veteran  Vince Pascarella, "For those of you who don't know, Les Rosen was the chief architect of the PBSA predecessor NAPBS, and its first Chair and unofficial Executive Director. Simply put, no Les Rosen then, no PBSA today."For more information, see:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ CONTACT US!Send comments, feedback,  suggestions for future guests or sponsorship information to:screeningpros200@gmail.comPlatinum Sponsor:  https://preemploymentdirectory.com/ , publisher of the Background Buzz!  

  1. Episode 59: Mind the Gap: The Human Connection in a Digital Screening World

    3D AGO

    Episode 59: Mind the Gap: The Human Connection in a Digital Screening World

    Send a text In this international edition of Behind the Screens, I’m joined by the leadership team of the PBSA Europe & Africa Council: Martin Hardy, Will Hogarth, and Sally Ott-Lacoste. We explore how each of them entered the background screening industry, what keeps them passionate about it, and how the industry continues to evolve across Europe and Africa. We also preview the upcoming PBSA Europe & Africa Summit in London and discuss why this event is becoming essential for professionals who want to grow their network, knowledge, and global impact. Beyond compliance and accreditation, this episode is about leadership, community, adaptability, and the human responsibility behind screening. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How Martin, Will, and Sally entered the background screening industryThe evolving role of startups, tech innovation, and social media vettingWhy trust, honesty, and context are essential in screeningWhat PBSA represents across Europe and AfricaHow global accreditation strengthens best practicesWhat makes the PBSA Europe & Africa Summit a must-attend eventWhy networking is not optional if you want to grow in this industryHow to build meaningful connections, even with competitorsThe biggest lessons these leaders have learned about integrity and fairnessWhy curiosity and adaptability are critical for long-term successWhat We Discuss About the PBSA Europe & Africa Summit   The 2026 Summit theme and agenda directionWhy education and networking are equally importantHow sponsors contribute to the long-term growth of the industryThe importance of walking away with new connections and fresh ideasWhy making one new meaningful relationship can change your careerThis Episode Is for You If: You work in background screening and want a global perspectiveYou’re considering attending the PBSA Europe & Africa SummitYou want to move into leadership roles within the industryYou’re building or growing a screening businessYou believe screening is about more than data; it’s about responsibilityYou want to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving regulatory and tech landscapeWe also lighten things up with a speed round covering mentors, proud moments, life outside screening, Lindy Hop dancing, sailing, and even brass band busking. This episode reminds us that behind every screening report is a human decision, and behind every successful screening company is a community. If you are part of this industry, this conversation is worth your time. See you next time on Behind the Screens. Connect with US: Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200 This podcast is sponsored by: The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

    55 min
  2. Episode 58: Marc Bourne on Adaptability, Accreditation, and Giving Back

    FEB 9

    Episode 58: Marc Bourne on Adaptability, Accreditation, and Giving Back

    Send a text In this episode of Behind the Screens, I sit down with Marc Bourne, a true industry veteran who has been part of background screening since 1999 and is still deeply engaged in shaping its future. Our conversation explores what it really means to build a long, meaningful career in background screening, from courthouse research and private investigations to executive leadership and service on the PBSA Board of Directors. Marc shares why adaptability is not optional in this industry, how accreditation and professional standards elevate everyone, and why mentoring the next generation matters just as much as compliance and technology. We also step outside of screening to talk about his volunteer work solving cold cases, his passion for animal rescue, and a fun fact that no one sees coming. At its core, this episode is about people. The people we work with, the people we screen, and the responsibility we all carry to treat them with care, integrity, and respect. In this episode, you will learn: Why background screening is fundamentally a people driven industryHow Marc’s early work in courthouse research shaped his perspective as a CRAThe importance of adaptability and constant learning in a rapidly changing industryWhat PBSA accreditation really means and why it matters for CRAs of all sizesHow volunteering and mentorship strengthen both careers and the industry as a wholeWhy being present, curious, and engaged opens doors throughout your careerHow Marc balances executive leadership with volunteer work on cold case investigationsA surprising fun fact from Marc’s early life that you probably did not expect This episode is for you if: You work in background screening and want to build a long, sustainable careerYou are new to the industry and looking for guidance on how to grow and stand outYou want to better understand the value of PBSA involvement and accreditationYou care about ethics, professionalism, and the human impact of screening decisionsYou believe mentorship, kindness, and integrity still matter in businessYou enjoy hearing real stories from people who have helped shape the industryIf you are looking for perspective, encouragement, and a reminder of why the work we do matters, this is an episode you will want to hear from start to finish. Connect with US: Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200 This podcast is sponsored by: The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

    45 min
  3. Episode 57: Nick Fishman on Purpose, Mentorship, and Making a Mark in Background Screening

    JAN 26

    Episode 57: Nick Fishman on Purpose, Mentorship, and Making a Mark in Background Screening

    Send us a text In this episode of Behind the Screens, I sit down with someone I’ve long admired—Nick Fishman, co-founder of Employee Screen IQ and now a partner at iCubed Advisors. Nick is one of those rare people who brings equal parts insight, creativity, and humanity to everything he does in this industry. We talk about how he built and sold Employee Screen IQ, his early marketing innovations like Employee Screen University, and why background screening remains more than just a career for him—it’s a mission. Nick opens up about the mentors who shaped him, the importance of giving back, and what keeps him energized in this work after decades in the business. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why Nick sees background screening as a vital public serviceHow he turned thought leadership into a business advantage with Employee Screen UniversityThe role PBSA played in shaping his advocacy and industry involvementWhat he’s learned from mentoring others—and being mentored himselfHis advice for newcomers trying to find their place in this complex, rewarding fieldThis episode is for you if... You’re passionate about doing meaningful work in background screeningYou’re looking for ways to lead with both heart and strategyYou want to hear how one industry leader built a company with values at the coreYou’re new to the field and looking for career-defining wisdomConnect with US: Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200 This podcast is sponsored by: The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

    36 min
  4. Episode 56: Kym Kurey on Human Trafficking Advocacy, Background Screening, and Multifaceted Talents

    JAN 12

    Episode 56: Kym Kurey on Human Trafficking Advocacy, Background Screening, and Multifaceted Talents

    Send us a text In this episode of Behind the Screens, I speak with Kym Kurey, Chief Revenue Officer at True Corpus and a powerful voice in the fight against human trafficking. Kim brings a compelling blend of industry expertise, advocacy, and creativity to the conversation—from her leadership in background screening to founding A New Life International, a nonprofit supporting trafficking survivors. We explore how Kim’s professional journey intersected with her passion for justice, including her work on task forces, efforts to help survivors expunge criminal records, and why human trafficking awareness remains central to her mission. Beyond her advocacy, Kim opens up about her creative side—from performing in musicals to writing children’s books and directing plays—showing that leadership takes many forms. In this episode, you’ll learn: How background screening professionals can play a role in combating human traffickingThe origin story and mission behind A New Life InternationalWhat it’s like to uncover a major fraud case and what it taught Kim about diligenceHow creativity and compassion fuel her leadership in and beyond the industryThe value of mentorship, community, and staying rooted in purpose This episode is for you if: You’re in background screening and want to connect your work to a greater missionYou’re curious about how industry leaders contribute to anti-trafficking advocacyYou value stories that blend business insight with personal passionYou’re new to the industry and looking for inspiration on how to make a meaningful impactConnect with US: Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200 This podcast is sponsored by: The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

    50 min
  5. Episode 55: Mike Coffey on Building a Purpose-Driven Business, Podcasting, and Finding Joy in the Hard Way

    11/24/2025

    Episode 55: Mike Coffey on Building a Purpose-Driven Business, Podcasting, and Finding Joy in the Hard Way

    Send us a text In this episode of Behind the Screens, I sit down with Mike Coffey, founder of Imperative, host of the Good Morning HR podcast, and a familiar force in the background screening world. If you think you know Mike—think again. From his early days managing chinchillas and tearing up carpet with P90X, to founding one of the industry’s most meticulous and high-touch screening firms, Mike’s story is as entertaining as it is inspiring. We cover his HR roots, the philosophy behind his screening approach, and why investing in relationships—whether with clients, employees, or regulators—has always been at the core of his business. Mike also opens up about his yoga journey, family, and the story behind Concerned CRAs—a movement that challenged the industry to raise its standards. Whether you’re new to background screening or a seasoned professional, Mike’s mix of humor, honesty, and hard-earned insight makes this one of our most engaging conversations yet. 🔹 Key Takeaways: Do It the Hard Way—Because It’s Worth It: Mike shares why being thorough, detailed, and client-first isn’t the easy path—but it’s the right one.From HR to Screening Pioneer: His deep HR roots shaped how he built Imperative—and why he still thinks like a practitioner first.Podcasting with Purpose: Good Morning HR became a post-COVID passion project that’s now helped over 275,000 listeners—and counting.Values Drive Everything: From quoting Seneca to prioritizing “earned appreciation,” Mike shows how values shape decisions at every level.Invest in Your Industry: Whether it’s PBSA, Concerned CRAs, or mentoring the next generation, Mike shows that advocacy, standards, and service matter. 🎧 Episode 55 is now streaming. If you enjoyed this conversation, share it with a colleague, leave a review, and subscribe for more stories from behind the scenes of background screening. Connect with US: Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200 This podcast is sponsored by: The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

    55 min
  6. Episode 54: Lessons in Leadership, Legacy, and Listening – A Conversation with Mary Poquette

    11/17/2025

    Episode 54: Lessons in Leadership, Legacy, and Listening – A Conversation with Mary Poquette

    Send us a text "If you're going to call yourself an expert, make sure you are one." In this episode of Behind the Screens, I sit down with Mary Poquette, a pioneer in the background screening industry, co-chair of PBSA in its earliest years, and recipient of the Mike Sankey Lifetime Achievement Award. What follows is a rich, funny, and deeply insightful conversation that traces Mary’s journey from a high school teacher and word processor trainer to one of the most respected compliance leaders in screening. We talk about her early days with Verifications Inc., building a team from 10 to over 300 employees, and how she turned compliance into her calling. Mary opens up about the lessons that shaped her—from shredders and streakers to strategy and mentorship—and shares the powerful, practical advice she gives to newcomers today. From her volunteer work post-retirement to her memories of South Africa and Minnesota winters, this episode captures what it truly means to lead with integrity, humility, and humor. Key Takeaways: Start Small, Think Big: Mary joined a screening firm as its 10th employee and helped scale it to 300—proving the power of good people, strong systems, and a little bit of risk.Don’t Pretend to Know—Learn It: A misstep with the FCRA taught Mary a lifelong lesson about preparation and owning your expertise.Leadership Means Letting Go: As the company grew, Mary handed off departments but held onto compliance—her passion and strength.PBSA Built Her Up—and She Gave Back: From helping craft the first accreditation standards to mentoring future leaders, Mary’s PBSA journey is a model of service and growth.Listen, Prepare, and Keep Your Promises: These three principles guided her through every challenge and remain her lasting advice for industry newcomers. 🎧 Episode 54 is live now. If Mary’s story inspired you, please share it with a colleague or friend in the industry—and don’t forget to subscribe, review, and repost to keep these conversations going. Connect with US: Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200 This podcast is sponsored by: The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

    53 min
  7. Episode 53: From Pager Sales to Legal Powerhouse in Screening with Kellie O’Shea

    11/10/2025

    Episode 53: From Pager Sales to Legal Powerhouse in Screening with Kellie O’Shea

    Send us a text She sold beepers from a car trunk—and now she shapes the future of background screening law. This is Kellie O’Shea’s journey. In this unforgettable episode, I sit down with Kellie O’Shea, General Counsel at Creative Services, Inc. (CSI) and PBSA Board Member, to talk about hustle, heart, and the “it depends” moments that make up life as a background screening pro. We talk grit, growth, and the unique path Kellie carved—balancing law school, a full-time job, and an unwavering belief in the mission of background screening. This one’s full of personal anecdotes, real-life advice, and yes… a healthy dose of humor (and a meat raffle or two). Whether you’re a veteran in the field or someone just stepping into the screening space, Kellie’s story reminds us why what we do matters—deeply. 🔑 Key Takeaways From This Episode: The Purpose Behind the Process  Kellie shares why background screening is more than a job—it’s a mission to help companies make better, safer decisions for society.From Beepers to Legal Briefs  Her unconventional career path, including selling pagers and returning to the industry as a “boomerang,” offers inspiration for anyone finding their way.“It Depends” Isn’t a Cop-Out—It’s a Legal Lens  Hear how Kellie embraced the complexity of compliance and now leads with a blend of risk analysis and practical empathy.What It Means to Serve on the PBSA Board  From shaping legislation on Capitol Hill to learning from industry giants like Judy Gootkind, Kellie’s journey is a masterclass in leadership through service.Life Beyond the Screens Whether it’s boating on Lake Massapoag or conquering a fear of flying to visit Dubai, Kellie reminds us that balance, humor, and community matter just as much as policy and process.Connect with US: Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200 This podcast is sponsored by: The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

    52 min
  8. Episode 52: The Path to Purpose: Carl Cogdill on Leadership, Legacy, and the Power of Public Records

    11/03/2025

    Episode 52: The Path to Purpose: Carl Cogdill on Leadership, Legacy, and the Power of Public Records

    Send us a text In this engaging episode of Behind the Screens: Conversations with Background Screening Pros, I sit down with Carl Cogdill—longtime industry veteran, founder of Astute Public Records, and one of the sharpest minds in the business. From his beginnings with dreams of becoming a Maryland State Trooper to his unexpected journey into the background screening world, Carl shares how every twist and turn led to building a company focused on accuracy, efficiency, and trust. We dive into his leadership philosophy, his personal evolution from introvert to public speaker (thank you, Toastmasters!), and why “you are the product” is the best career advice he’s ever received. Carl also discusses the value of PBSA, his passion for mentoring, and what it means to build something lasting—alongside his son, Chance. Plus, you won’t want to miss the story of how Carl once stood up to the Secret Service to protect the Star-Spangled Banner. Yes, really. This is an episode filled with humility, wisdom, and heart. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, Carl's insights are not to be missed. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts or watch the episode on YouTube.  🔁 If you liked this episode, share it on LinkedIn, tag a colleague, and leave us a rating—it helps others discover the show! Connect with US: Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200 This podcast is sponsored by: The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/

    36 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

"Behind the Screens" is a podcast that brings you up close and personal with the people in the background screening industry. Hosted by Les Rosen, each episode features in-depth, human-interest interviews with a diverse range of guests—including business executives, employees with extensive screening experience, vendors who serve the industry, and legal and compliance experts. These conversations dive into the personal stories and insights of those who know the industry best, offering a fresh perspective on the people driving background screening. Whether you are part of the industry or just curious, "Behind the Screens" delivers authentic, non-marketing-focused stories from the world of background checks.Your host:  Les Rosen is an Attorney, former owner of a screening firm, the chair of the steering committee that founded PBSA and the first co-chair of PBSA, as well as author of the "Safe Hiring Manual," and frequent presenter nationwide. According to attorney and industry veteran  Vince Pascarella, "For those of you who don't know, Les Rosen was the chief architect of the PBSA predecessor NAPBS, and its first Chair and unofficial Executive Director. Simply put, no Les Rosen then, no PBSA today."For more information, see:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/ CONTACT US!Send comments, feedback,  suggestions for future guests or sponsorship information to:screeningpros200@gmail.comPlatinum Sponsor:  https://preemploymentdirectory.com/ , publisher of the Background Buzz!  

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