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 49: Behind the First Background Check: A Conversation with Industry Pioneer Steve Brownstein

    19H AGO

    Episode 49: Behind the First Background Check: A Conversation with Industry Pioneer Steve Brownstein

    Send us a text Before databases were a click away, Steve Brownstein was already connecting the dots. In this episode of Behind the Screens, I’m joined by Steve Brownstein—a true pioneer whose work helped shape the background screening industry as we know it. From manual county searches to international screening strategies, Steve’s story is one of relentless innovation, curiosity, and community-building. We talk about how he launched county search networks, expanded background checks globally, and created The Background Investigator, one of the first publications dedicated to our field. Steve also opens up about his adventures beyond the industry—promoting concerts in the South Pacific, boxing with Chicago Golden Gloves, and the deep family values that drive his work. This episode isn’t just about the past—it’s a masterclass in how passion, problem-solving, and a bit of entrepreneurial courage can transform an entire industry. Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss! Manual to Global: Steve began with on-the-ground county searches and went on to create international background check networks.Industry Infrastructure Builder: He founded some of the first industry conferences and publications, creating critical platforms for education and connection.A Life Beyond Screening: From concert promotion in Saipan to boxing rings in Chicago, Steve shares the experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial mindset.Mentorship Matters: He credits industry mentors and candid advice as essential fuel for his long-standing career.Legacy of Passion: Through decades of change, Steve’s excitement for background screening hasn’t wavered—it's what still gets him up in the morning.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/

    41 min
  2. Episode 48: Alice Quinones's Global Journey Through Law, Purpose, and Background Screening

    SEP 29

    Episode 48: Alice Quinones's Global Journey Through Law, Purpose, and Background Screening

    Send us a text In this episode of Behind the Screens, I sit down with Alice Quinones, a dual-qualified attorney in France and the U.S., who’s helping shape the future of privacy and compliance in the background screening world. We discuss Alice’s cross-continental legal education, her journey from Deloitte to building her own firm, and how she views the screening industry as both a legal playground and a space to protect people. From leading PBSA Europe to building practical compliance frameworks, Alice brings both depth and clarity to a complex space. If you’re in HR, compliance, or just curious about how background checks intersect with global law, this episode is a must-listen. Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss! Compliance should be proactive, not reactive.The EU’s screening laws require creative legal problem-solving.Purpose-driven work sustains long-term careers.PBSA involvement accelerates professional growth.Even small changes in mindset can shift entire industry practices.If you enjoyed this conversation with Alice, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to "Behind the Screens" for more stories from the people shaping the background screening industry. Share this episode with a colleague who cares about doing screening the right way. 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/

    39 min
  3. Episode 47: Transforming Background Screening in India with Chetan Desai

    SEP 22

    Episode 47: Transforming Background Screening in India with Chetan Desai

    Send us a text What do background screening, the Indian Army, and vinyl records have in common? On the surface, nothing—until you meet Chetan Desai. From serving in the military and as a mountaineer to founding one of India’s first background screening firms, Chetan’s story is proof that discipline, curiosity, and just a little obsession (with both compliance and perfect sound systems) can take you far. Today, he’s not only building SecureSearch but also shaping the global industry through PBSA leadership. This is a conversation that mixes grit with humor, lessons with laughter—and maybe a few speaker upgrades along the way. Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss! 1. Early Life and Military Discipline 2. Founding SecureSearch and Industry Beginnings 3. Global Perspectives and PBSA Leadership 4. Life Beyond Screening: Music, Mountains, and Mentorship Chetan Desai’s journey—from the Army to background screening boardrooms—shows us that leadership is forged through discipline, curiosity, and the courage to try something new. His story is both a masterclass in resilience and a reminder that passion, whether for music, mountains, or mentorship, fuels long-term success. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, and review the podcast—your support helps us share more stories from the people shaping our industry. And of course, stay tuned for more Behind the Screens conversations. 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
  4. Episode 46: Behind the Screens with PBSA Chairs: What Really Happens Behind PBSA’s Gavel

    SEP 14

    Episode 46: Behind the Screens with PBSA Chairs: What Really Happens Behind PBSA’s Gavel

    Send us a text Think carrying the PBSA gavel is all formality and boardrooms? Think again. When three Chairs sit down together, you get a mix of wisdom, war stories, and a few moments that prove even industry leaders don’t take themselves too seriously. In this episode, I bring together Tim Gordon, Chad Ascar, and Scott Maloney—the current chair, the immediate past chair, and the chair before the past chair—for a candid conversation about leadership, resilience, and the future of background screening. From their unlikely paths into this industry to the proud moments that defined their tenures, this discussion reveals not just the challenges of leading a global association but also the friendships, community, and humor that sustain it. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to sit in the PBSA chair, this is the episode you don’t want to miss. Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss! 1. Early Paths into Background Screening 2. Why We Stay: Purpose and People 3. Lessons Learned Along the Way 4. Leading at PBSA: The Weight of the Gavel If today’s conversation made you laugh, think, or nod along, do us a favor—hit follow, leave a quick review, and share this episode with a colleague. It’s the best way to keep these important stories alive and growing. 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
  5. Episode 45: How Catherine Aldrich Brame Shaped Accreditation & Industry Standards in Background Screening

    SEP 8

    Episode 45: How Catherine Aldrich Brame Shaped Accreditation & Industry Standards in Background Screening

    Send us a text What if the very foundations of background screening—the databases, the processes, the standards—were shaped by someone who once started out answering phones as a young mom just trying to make it work? That’s the story of Catherine Aldrich Brame. From building the first national criminal databases at CDB Infotech, to scaling Accurate and HireRight, to co-founding Five Diamond Screening, Cath has been at the heart of every major leap in our industry. She’s also one of the original board members of PBSA, guiding accreditation that still defines us today. Cath’s journey proves that resilience, vision, and a relentless work ethic don’t just build careers—they build industries. Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss! 1. From Customer Service Rep to Industry Builder 2. Scaling Accurate and HireRight: Lessons in Growth 3. Building Five Diamond Screening & Shaping Accreditation 4. Leadership, Mentorship, and Service Beyond Screening Catherine’s story reminds us that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about impact. From her first role answering phones to shaping accreditation and mentoring leaders, she has proven that one person can truly help build an industry. Her story is a blueprint for resilience, innovation, and service. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and follow the podcast so you never miss an inspiring story. And as always, share it with someone in your network who could use a little inspiration from one of the trailblazers 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/

    43 min
  6. Episode 44: She Said ‘Short-Term Stop’, Background Screening Said ‘Lifetime Contract’ – Susie Thomson’s Journey

    SEP 1

    Episode 44: She Said ‘Short-Term Stop’, Background Screening Said ‘Lifetime Contract’ – Susie Thomson’s Journey

    Send us a text What does leadership look like when it’s built on resilience, curiosity, and an unwavering belief in people? For Susie Thomson, it looks like a career that has taken her from the ground floor of her family business to the top ranks of global background screening. She helped create Security Watchdog, guided its growth through acquisition, and today leads as COO of Matrix while shaping the global future of screening through PBSA. Now on track to become the first European Chair of PBSA, Susie’s story shows us how embracing change and empowering others can leave a lasting mark on an entire industry. Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss! Early Career and Building Security WatchdogLeadership Lessons and GrowthPBSA and Global PerspectiveLife Beyond ScreeningSusie’s journey shows us that leadership is built on trust, humility, and the courage to embrace change. Whether it’s guiding a company through acquisition, stepping into global leadership with PBSA, or mentoring the next generation, her story is a powerful reminder that background screening isn’t just about compliance—it’s about people. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, and review the podcast. It helps us bring more inspiring conversations with leaders like Susie Thomson to the community. 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/

    49 min
  7. Episode 43: Dare to Disrupt: Four Innovators Share Bold Visions for the Future of Screening

    AUG 25

    Episode 43: Dare to Disrupt: Four Innovators Share Bold Visions for the Future of Screening

    Send us a text What happens when you take four professionals from different corners of the background screening industry—each with unique expertise, bold ideas, and a willingness to shake things up—and put them together on one stage? You get disruption. In this special episode, I sit down with Andrew Cashman, Tressa Fullard, Kevin Horval, and Oakley Smith—four innovators who came together at PBSA Mid-Year to challenge the status quo and reimagine the future of screening. From rethinking applicant-driven data to reinventing occupational medicine and vendor processes, these “Disruptors” prove that progress starts with daring to ask: what if? This conversation might just change the way you think about background screening forever. Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss! 1. Meet the Disruptors 2. Disruptive Ideas that Challenge the Norm 3. Lessons Learned & Career Milestones 4. Beyond Screening: People, Passions & PBSA’s Role This conversation with the “Disruptors” is more than just talk—it’s proof that the future of background screening belongs to those willing to challenge the norm, ask bold questions, and embrace collaboration. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned veteran, the message is clear: dare to disrupt, get involved, and keep learning. 👉 If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more people who care about the future of 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/

    52 min
  8. Episode 42: From “Temporary Job” to Lifelong Calling: Bobby Shank’s Journey in Background Screening

    AUG 18

    Episode 42: From “Temporary Job” to Lifelong Calling: Bobby Shank’s Journey in Background Screening

    Send us a text What if the path you thought would be temporary turned out to be the foundation of a lifelong calling? That’s the story of Bobby Shank. With a degree in finance and even a chapter of life spent in Costa Rica, Bobby never expected that joining his family’s business, Roundstone, would anchor him in the background screening industry for good. What started as “just a job” became a career marked by resilience, vision, and leadership. Along the way, joining PBSA turned out to be the source of invaluable friendships and industry-shaping insights. His story is a reminder that the paths we don’t plan often lead to our greatest impact. Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss! 1. From Temporary Stop to Lifelong Career 2. The Turning Point: Discovering PBSA 3. Challenges, Growth, and Industry Evolution 4. Lessons, Leadership, and Legacy Bobby Shank’s journey reminds us that what starts as a short-term commitment can grow into a lifelong passion—and sometimes, the things we resist the most turn out to be the most rewarding. If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate, follow, and review Behind the Screens. Your support helps us bring more stories like Bobby’s to the industry leaders who need them most. 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/

    42 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 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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