Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction Psychological manipulation has consistently shaped global events, from the ancient battlefields of Sun Tzu to the weaponized deepfakes of today’s scammers. In 2025, this same psychological warfare is being waged online, not just by state actors but by fraudsters exploiting our trust, our fears, and the speed of modern... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction A Home for the Wandering Soul I didn’t come to Phuket to escape. At least, that’s what I told myself. But somewhere between the sea-salt air of Patong Beach and the rhythmic sound of fists hitting pads in Soi Ta-Iad, I felt something unexpected stir inside me: peace. Despite... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction: Where Sweat Meets Purpose Tucked away in the heart of Phuket, Thailand, far from the hedonistic nightlife of Patong Beach, lies a road that hums with a different rhythm—one of discipline, sweat, and transformation. Soi Ta-iad, commonly referred to as “Fitness Street,” is more than just a road lined... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction The power to shape public opinion didn’t begin with social media—it began with the ballot box. From ancient Athens’ early votes to America’s first straw poll in 1824, the idea of capturing the public’s voice evolved rapidly. By the 20th century, George Gallup had turned polling into a science.... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction It should have been impossible. In the world of high-stakes diplomacy and national defence there are few roles more critical—or more protected—than the Secretary of Homeland Security. Armed with access to classified systems, secure facilities, and decision-making authority during national crises, a Cabinet official like Kristi Noem should be... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
In 2024, Australia experienced a surge in cyber security breaches, with 47 million data breaches reported, averaging one every second, making it the 11th most affected country globally. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) reported 527 data breaches from January to June 2024, including a major breach affecting... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
How My Father’s Final Words Shaped My Journey to Resilience and Purpose “Imagine being on your deathbed, and standing around you is the ghost of the dreams, the ideas, the abilities, and the talents given to you by life. That you, for whatever reason, never went after that dream. You... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction: It was March 1995 when I was sent to Police Academy to complete 6 months of training to complete my degree in crime forensic investigations. I was not so keen, and the main reason was that I would miss all action on the front line, investigating spies, traitors, and... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction “Life is difficult. Once we truly see this truth, we transcend it.” These words echo a profound reality that many of us, at one point or another, fail to grasp. It’s a truth that, when acknowledged, frees us to live more authentically and build deeper connections. Yet, we’re often... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
The LinkedIn Illusion: Where Credibility Meets Contrivance It starts with a viral leadership post—neatly written, emotionally resonant, 50,000 likes. The author? The author, a self-declared “growth strategist,” boasts C-suite credentials and a stellar client roster. They look real. They sound real. But behind the curtain of professional polish lies something... View Article