Introduction to the Three Lines of Defence

3LoD Unlocked

Welcome to the inaugural episode of 3LoD Unlocked! In this solo episode, host Ghassan Zeidan lays the groundwork for what promises to be an insightful and thought-provoking podcast series. With over 20 years of experience in the Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) space, Ghassan introduces the Three Lines of Defense (3LoD) model, its evolution, and its growing importance in today’s risk-conscious organizations.
Ghassan shares his personal journey in the financial services and banking sectors, reflecting on the challenges of siloed operations, the value of integrated assurance, and how the 3LOD model provides accountability and structure. He also addresses criticisms of the model, highlights opportunities for improvement, and explains why the name “Three Lines of Defense” continues to resonate within the industry.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a newcomer curious about GRC, or someone looking to gain a better understanding of risk management frameworks, this episode sets the stage for exciting future discussions and expert interviews.
Timestamps
•[0:00] – Introduction to the Podcast and Host
•[2:16] – What is the Three Lines of Defense (3 LoD) Model?
•[4:00] – Common Challenges with the 3LoD Model
•[6:10] – Roles and Responsibilities Across the Three Lines
•[6:56] – Integrated Assurance and Technology Trends
•[7:36] – The Board’s Role in the 3LoD Model
•[8:17] – Why the 3LoD Name Still Matters
•[8:44] – The Format of Future Episodes
•[9:26] – Call to Action: Your Feedback Matters
Quotes to Remember
•“Risk is the price of innovation. Without risk, there is no reward.”
•“The 3LoD model provides a baseline, but collaboration is what truly makes it effective.”
•“The name ‘Three Lines of Defense’ isn’t the issue—it’s how you interpret and apply it that matters.”
•“This podcast is about building a stronger, more connected community in GRC.”
Conclusion
In this kickoff episode of 3LoD Unlocked, Ghassan Zeidan offers an insightful introduction to the Three Lines of Defense model, its challenges, and its evolving relevance in the GRC space. Whether you’re a risk management veteran or exploring these concepts for the first time, this episode provides a solid foundation and a sneak peek into the future of the podcast.
Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast with colleagues who are passionate about governance, risk, and compliance. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where we’ll dive deeper into methodologies, emerging trends, and inspiring career stories.
Don’t forget to unlock the silos—join us on this journey!

Connect with Us
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📧 For enquiries or to suggest topics, contact Ghassan Zeidan