The Tribune

By D'ARCY RAHMING

The hottest topic in the news in the US is the Ferguson riots, and the police shooting of a young man. This is the news that many people wish would go away because it has highlighted what some think is a huge flaw in American culture.

It has led to countless stories worldwide, as everyone registers their outrage in article after article. Adding to the drama has been a grand jury verdict that has essentially exonerated the police officer without a trial. This has left many wondering if there is a larger conspiracy. And, dear friends, being a police trainer, I have another insight on the case.

Now why, may you ask, would I even be mentioning this in my column. Because I can add some value here. I can reduce violence if I get my message across. Maybe some kid will not get shot by accident. Maybe some police officer will not have to live with regret. Maybe somebody’s store doesn’t get torched. Maybe we can really have a decent Christmas without fear. All because I understand how this event can be avoided on both sides. But I have to get my message out.

Here’s how I intend to do this. First, I shot a video on my new insights, which have to do with understanding the different phases of fear-induced heart rate. I have not seen anyone analyse police shootings in this way, even though had it come to trial, I am sure an expert witness would have been called forth to do this. I am going to try to make this video go viral by naming it: ‘A Black Belt Police Trainer’s View on the Ferguson Shooting’.

I will tie the video back to a free video of a gun disarmament seminar I did a few years ago. Strangely enough, this is the same material I teach police officers, so that they do not resort to excessive force. A number of individuals will be only too happy to grab it because it contains valuable information and is free.

And, most important of all, I will have gotten my message out. Then I will invite people to subscribe to my blog to get more information. Some will take advantage of this opportunity. I will also have my new book and video on sale at my blog. As well as information on my other books, videos and seminars. Therefore, my list will grow.

If I am picked up by a major news network, it may even go viral. Remember, I have appeared on BBC World News before because of my postings. So now, my fellow marketing revolutionaries, think about how you can tie your products and services into events that are appearing in the news around you. How can you add value to what is happening? It could be something as simple as sponsoring community builders in communities stricken by violence. Look for every opportunity to make this link.

• NB: D’Arcy Rahming holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management and has helped small and large clients, both in the Bahamas and internationally. Go to DArcyRahming.com and get his free video training series on How to Get a Paycheck From International Clients While Living in the Bahamas.