Off the Wire: A Play by Play on Cybersecurity and Technology Issues

E38 – Stop Shadow IT with one easy trick!

Shadow IT: Identifying and Managing Unauthorized Technology Use

In this episode of 'Off the Wire,' Tanner and Anthony discuss 'Shadow IT' and its implications on organizational security and efficiency. They delve into concrete examples, such as unauthorized software subscriptions and unapproved hardware purchases. Tanner and Anthony provide insights on why users engage in Shadow IT and the risks associated with it. They emphasize the importance of communication and understanding user needs to manage and potentially reduce Shadow IT. They also share practical tips and tools for identifying and mitigating the risks related to unauthorized technology use within an organization.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:49 Understanding Shadow IT

01:36 Real-Life Examples of Shadow IT

03:20 Addressing Shadow IT Concerns

08:48 Risks and Security Implications

11:48 Tools and Strategies to Detect Shadow IT

15:59 Effective Communication and User Engagement

24:33 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

E37 - How to Choose the Right Vendor for Your Business (Tips & Tricks)

Mastering Technology Evaluations: Insights for IT Executives

In this episode of 'Off The Wire,' IT executives Tanner and Anthony delve into the intricacies of technology evaluations, covering both hardware and software. With 35 years of combined experience, they discuss the importance of starting with the 'why,' involving the right people, and the significance of demos, pricing, and references. They also explore best practices for evaluating new vendors and products to ensure successful implementation. Whether you're an IT leader or simply interested in technology strategies, this episode offers practical advice you won't want to miss. Don't forget to subscribe and share if you find our content valuable!

00:00 Introduction to Off The Wire Podcast

00:32 Subscribe and Support

00:54 Starting Technology Evaluations

01:38 Involving the Right People

03:24 Balancing Team Size

05:31 Evaluating IT-Specific Projects

07:22 Objective Evaluation Criteria

17:20 Effective Demo Strategies

24:39 Importance of References

29:43 Considering Price and Value

33:40 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

E36 - IT Strategic Tech Planning: Communicating with Leadership Effectively

Mastering Strategic Tech Planning: Communicating with Leadership Effectively

In this episode of 'Off the Wire,' we dive deep into the essential topic of strategic technology planning and the importance of effectively communicating these plans to CEOs, executive leaders, and board members. Hosts Anthony and Tanner discuss their personal experiences and approaches to planning, including the facets of building on previous years, incorporating feedback from all company levels, and ensuring alignment with company goals and strategic plans.

They emphasize the significance of clear communication, especially avoiding technical jargon when conveying plans to non-technical stakeholders. The episode also tackles the critical aspects of cost, risk, and impact assessment and underscores the importance of a feedback loop post-approval to track progress and continuously refine strategic initiatives. Tune in to learn actionable insights on how to gain trust and buy-in from your organization's leadership for your tech proposals.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:42 Importance of Strategic Planning

01:38 Building and Updating Technology Plans

02:46 Involving Other Departments

04:23 Leadership and Strategic Partnerships

07:07 Communicating with Leadership

12:12 Feedback and Continuous Improvement

14:54 Presenting to the Board and CEOs

18:15 Effective Communication Strategies

25:47 Final Thoughts and Tips

E35 - Mastering IT Project Management: Tips and Tools for Success

Mastering IT Project Management: Tips and Tools for Success

Welcome to Off the Wire, the podcast dedicated to helping you manage cybersecurity risks and tackle technology challenges. In this episode, hosts Tanner and Anthony dive deep into the world of project management, specifically IT project management. They begin by recounting their experiences and the critical importance of having clear goals, plans, and user buy-in to make projects successful. They discuss the significance of strong communication, flexibility, and involving end-users in the process for better outcomes.

The episode also covers evaluating project management tools such as ClickUp, Asana, and Smartsheet, along with practical tips and tricks to improve project management in your organization. Lastly, the hosts emphasize the need for continuous improvement and leveraging the strengths of your team members. Join Tanner and Anthony as they share valuable insights and real-life experiences to help you master IT project management.

00:00 Introduction to Off The Wire Podcast

00:59 Upcoming Conferences and Events

02:42 Diving into IT Project Management

04:14 Defining Project Success

06:37 Challenges and Lessons in Project Management

16:51 Current Project Management Practices

26:41 Scoring Vendor Demos

28:15 Project Management Tools Overview

30:03 Choosing the Right Tool

33:14 Implementing ClickUp

39:56 Virtual vs. In-Person Meetings

41:08 Effective Communication Strategies

45:03 Cybersecurity in Projects

47:00 Improving Project Management

49:43 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

E34 - The Human Side of Cybersecurity: Building a Resilient Security Culture with Fletus Poston

Building a Lasting Security Culture in Your Organization

In this episode, hosts Tanner and Anthony, sit down with special guest Fletus Poston, a senior manager of security operations at CrashPlan, to discuss the creation and sustainment of a strong security culture within an organization.

Fletus shares his extensive cybersecurity experience and emphasizes a human-centric approach to security. 

See more from Fletus on his channel:

https://youtube.com/@fletusposton?si=OXDTXSBLDgx_jb63

00:00 Introduction to Off The Wire Podcast

00:20 Creating a Lasting Security Culture

00:53 Meet Fletus Poston: A Journey in Cybersecurity

02:34 The Human Element in Security

03:42 Real-World Security Scenarios

07:15 Building a Security Culture in Organizations

08:49 Practical Steps for Enhancing Security

14:23 Effective Communication in Security

23:32 Building Security Champions

23:47 Practical Security Tips for Different Roles

24:50 Creating a Security-Conscious Culture

25:41 Engaging the Board and Leadership

33:35 Gamification and Creative Training Methods

39:06 Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing

42:54 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

E33 - Hackers Love OT - Here's How to Keep Them Out!

Protecting Operational Technology Systems: Tips, Tricks, and Insights

In this episode of Off the Wire, Tanner and Anthony dive deep into the world of operational technology (OT) systems, discussing what they are, their importance in various industries, and how to protect them effectively. The duo covers the significance of reliable hardware and software controls, referencing the infamous Stuxnet incident as a wake-up call for OT security. They outline critical controls and practical tips for safeguarding OT environments, from network segmentation to passive monitoring and endpoint security. Tune in to learn actionable strategies to secure your OT systems and ensure operational reliability.

00:00 Introduction and Subscription Request

00:48 Understanding Operational Technology (OT)

02:07 The Importance of OT Security

04:56 Common OT Security Issues

11:13 Critical Controls for OT Security

15:02 Practical Tips for OT Security

25:12 Final Thoughts and Collaboration

26:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

E32 - Our Rules for Hardware Purchases: How We Pick Tech!

Off the Wire: Exploring Tech Hardware Refreshes and Efficient Setups

Join Anthony and Tanner in this insightful episode of Off the Wire as they discuss their philosophies on tech hardware, life cycles, and share their experiences with new tech devices. Whether it's choosing between desktops, laptops, iPads, smartphones, or even drones, Anthony and Tanner cover it all with real-world examples and helpful tips. Don’t miss out on their recommendations for reliable docking stations, innovative conference room setups, and how to handle surplus equipment. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to tech hardware that will help you make informed choices for your setups.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Promotion

01:12 Philosophy on Hardware

02:09 Experiences with Different Brands

03:26 Desktop and Laptop Preferences

04:01 Challenges with Micro Form Factor PCs

07:58 Memory and Storage Specifications

14:19 Rugged Machines for Field Work

17:41 Monitor Setups and Preferences

21:30 Mobile Devices and iPads

26:36 Device Longevity and Battery Life

26:41 Company Policy on Device Rotation

27:48 Carrier Choices and Coverage

28:10 Private Networks and Device Restrictions

29:03 iPads and Cellular Service

29:39 Company Phones vs. Personal Phones

31:50 Managing Old Equipment

33:14 Internal Auction System

34:39 New Hardware Purchases

35:14 Docking Stations and Conference Room Equipment

41:24 Monitors with Built-in Docking Stations

45:30 Remarkable Tablets for Note-Taking

47:30 Drone Usage and Recommendations

50:51 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

E31- Should I stay or should I go......away from Vmware?

VMware vs. Nutanix: Making the Right Virtualization Choice for Your Business

In this episode of 'Off the Wire,' we dive into a major decision facing businesses of all sizes: should you continue using VMware or explore alternatives like Nutanix? With VMware's recent acquisition by Broadcom and subsequent pricing changes, enterprises are re-evaluating their virtualization strategies. Hosts Anthony and Tanner are joined by two special guests: Devin Costa from Jones Onslow EMC and Ben Hubbard from Flint EMC. Devin and Ben share their experiences and insights on sticking with VMware versus transitioning to Nutanix. They discuss pros and cons, cost implications, support structures, and the future of virtualization in their respective organizations. Whether you are contemplating a move or seeking to optimize your current setup, this episode provides valuable perspectives to guide your decision-making process. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode if you find it helpful!

00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview

00:57 VMware's Acquisition by Broadcom

01:39 Guest Introductions: Devin Costa and Ben Hubbard

03:11 Ben Hubbard's Experience with VMware

09:32 Devin Costa's Experience with Nutanix

14:12 Comparing Costs and Decision-Making Processes

18:03 Future Hardware and Cloud Considerations

26:34 Exploring Cloud Solutions for Disaster Recovery

27:03 The Importance of Virtualization in Modern Infrastructure

27:55 Challenges and Benefits of Virtualization

31:09 Learning and Transitioning to New Virtualization Platforms

33:12 Support Experiences with VMware and Nutanix

40:02 Concerns About Future Price Increases

45:36 Advice for Organizations Considering Virtualization Options

51:53 Final Thoughts and Leadership Insights