Episode 2: A Journey from Frat House Fax Machines to Industry Leadership with Robert Capwell

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

Send us a text

Ever wondered how a background screening empire could be born out of a college fraternity house? Join me as I sit down with Robert “Bob” Capwell, a true pioneer in our industry, to uncover just that—and so much more. Bob may have started with “thermal fax machines” and stacks of paper, but he’s since evolved into a background screening renaissance man, helping turn PBSA into a global powerhouse and tackling industry challenges with a mix of old-school grit and modern finesse. You don’t want to miss Bob’s insights, humor, and a few “behind-the-scenes” tales that remind us just how far the industry has come.

Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!

• The Beginning: From Frat House to Fax Machines
  Bob takes us back to his early days, when he built his first background check business straight out of his college fraternity. Discover how he moved from regional sales at Equifax to founding his own company—and dealing with thermal fax machines along the way.
• Building a Global PBSA and the Value of Accreditation
  Bob talks about his pivotal role in making PBSA a global association, alongside industry legends like Barry Nixon. Hear why PBSA’s resources, certification, and accreditation programs are essential for anyone aiming to make a mark in this field.
• Top Industry Challenges and the Rise of AI
  From AI-driven innovations to court data redaction and the complexities of “clean slate” laws, Bob dives into the latest challenges facing background screeners today and shares why we can’t always trust what AI tells us.

You might also want to check out these resources

• PBSA Certification & Accreditation Programs
• Capwell Consulting Group
• Robert Capwell

Join the Conversation

If this episode made you laugh, think, or even re-evaluate your fax machine, do us a favor—hit follow, leave a review, and don’t forget to rate us! Your support helps us bring more unfiltered conversations from the pros. Plus, stay tuned for future episodes by checking out our website or following us on LinkedIn. Thanks for tuning in!

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/