Simply Secured

Cyber Journeys: Transition, Leadership, and Trekking with Bill "The Reel Bilbo" Boston

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:30:00 -0500

This week we chat with Bill Boston, also known as 'The Real Bilbo,' to explore his extensive journey from IT support roles to becoming a cybersecurity professional.

With over 20 years in support and a strong background in healthcare and consulting, Bill shares unique insights into overcoming mental health challenges, the importance of being fair, friendly, and firm, and how his military experience shaped his career. He also delves into the roles of generative AI in personal and professional settings and offers valuable advice for veterans transitioning into cybersecurity roles.

Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with real stories, career tips, and wisdom from the trenches of cybersecurity.

Connect with The Reel Bilbo!
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-boston-3860b856/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheReelBillbo
- Discord: @TheReelBilbo

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Bill Boston aka The Reel Bilbo
02:23 Bill Boston's Journey into Cybersecurity
06:08 Military Experience and Transition to IT
09:55 Advice for Veterans Entering Cybersecurity
11:59 Utilizing AI in Personal and Professional Life
16:02 Empowering IT Professionals in Cybersecurity
18:56 Creating and Sharing Knowledge through Videos
23:20 Types of Leaders and Early Career Challenges
25:54 The Three F's of Leadership
26:59 The Importance of Kindness in Leadership
27:20 Trekking as a Means of Recharging
31:48 Backpacking Logistics and Comparisons to Cybersecurity
34:40 Rapid Fire Questions
43:32 Final Thoughts and Farewell

==========================================================
Connect with your host: James R. McQuiggan:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jmcquiggan
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jamesmcquiggancissp
Website: https://jamesmcquiggan.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesmcquiggan.cissp
Email: James@jamesmcquiggan.com
==========================================================
Simply Cyber empowers people who want a rewarding cybersecurity career 💪
==========================================================
Video Editing / Sound Engineering: Matthew Bliss, MB Podcasts - https://www.mbpod.com
YouTube Title Graphic: London Company
Video Podcast graphics: Katie McQuiggan (www.katiemcquiggan.com)
Music Provided by: AppleHillStudios at Envato Elements
=========================
Presented by Simply Cyber Media Group
=========================
All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber
https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials

From Philosophy to Cybersecurity: An Unexpected Path With Christine Smoley

Simply Cyber Media Group — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 16:40:09 -0500

This week we have a captivating conversation with Christine Smoley, as she shares her journey from an academic background in phenomenology to a successful career in cybersecurity.

Key topics include networking at DEFCON, the importance of language acquisition and mental models, challenges of building security teams in startups, and her unique international experiences in Russia.

This episode offers valuable insights into the complexities of transitioning into cybersecurity and the importance of continual learning.

Connect with Christine on LinkedIn:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-smoley-92697358

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Simply Secured Podcast
00:43 Meet Christine Smoley
01:09 Defcon Poker and EFF Fundraising
02:05 Christine's Cybersecurity Journey
03:29 From Academia to Cybersecurity
04:52 Skills and Knowledge Transfer
10:51 Challenges in Skill Acquisition
14:41 Building Security in Startups
18:12 Evaluating Vendors and Third-Party Risks
23:25 Cultural Perspectives on Cybersecurity
27:24 Rapid Fire Questions
34:43 Final Thoughts and Farewell

From Bartender to Cybersecurity: Brent "CodeBrew" Buch's Unique Journey

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 09:30:00 -0500

This week we chat with Brent Buch, also known as Code Brew, to explore his fascinating transition from working in the food and beverage industry to becoming a junior database administrator and aspiring cybersecurity professional.

Brent discusses the challenges he faced breaking into the cybersecurity field, the value of transferable skills from bartending, and the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. He also shares insights on certification, industry resources, and tips for managing burnout. Tune in to hear his compelling journey and advice for anyone looking to make a similar career leap.

Chapters:
00:00 Discovering Cybersecurity: A YouTube Inspiration
00:48 Introduction to Simply Secured Podcast
01:30 Meet Brent Booth: From Bartender to Cybersecurity Professional
03:17 Brent's Journey into Cybersecurity
05:20 Challenges and Skills in Cybersecurity
12:15 Balancing Work and Family Life
21:43 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts
27:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

From Culinary Arts to Cybersecurity: The Journey and Humor of Dan 'Haircut Fish' Rearden

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 09:30:00 -0400

In this episode of Simply Secured, host James Mcquiggan engages in an insightful and entertaining conversation with Dan “The Haircut Fish” Rearden. Dan shares his unconventional journey from various odd jobs and college culinary arts to becoming a SOC analyst.

Dan talks about his love for technology, self-guided learning through TryHackMe, and transitioning from IT help desk roles to cybersecurity. Known for his popular cybersecurity memes, Dan elaborates on the importance of humor in the community and how he uses it to connect and educate others. He also discusses his involvement in Capture the Flags (CTFs), current projects, the value of self-made tools in Python, and his future aspirations in detection engineering.

Episode Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danrearden/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@danrearden384
- Discord: HaircutFish
- GitHub: https://github.com/haircutfish

Resources Mentioned in Interview:
- Security+ - https://www.comptia.org/en-us/certifications/security
- ISC2 CC - https://www.isc2.org/certifications/cc
- Detection Engineering - https://www.detectionengineering.net

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Early Career
00:42 Welcome to Simply Secured Podcast
01:15 Meet Dan 'Haircut Fish' Rearden
04:03 Dan's Journey into Cybersecurity
07:58 Daily Life of a SOC Analyst
10:35 Business Email Compromise Insights
16:10 Python Projects and Scripting Skills
22:29 Overcoming Roadblocks in Cybersecurity
23:01 The Origin of Cybersecurity Memes
23:55 Creative Process Behind Memes
26:55 Impact of Memes in the Cyber Community
31:31 Capture the Flag (CTF) Strategies
34:16 Certifications and Learning Paths
36:15 Rapid Fire Questions
43:23 Final Thoughts and Farewell

From Patent Law to Product Security: A Cybersecurity Journey in the Automotive Industry

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 09:30:00 -0400

On this week’s episode we chat with Tyson Benson and explore his diverse career as a senior product cybersecurity analyst for ZFI.

With a background in patent law, Benson shares his unique insights on the importance of cybersecurity in the automotive industry, particularly as it pertains to software-defined vehicles.

Discover the pivotal moments that led him to this field, the legal and regulatory challenges he faces, and his perspectives on the future of cybersecurity.

Don't miss this insightful conversation that digs deep into the real stories of cybersecurity practitioners making a significant impact.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Passion
00:42 Podcast Overview and Host Introduction
01:16 Guest Introduction: Tyson Benson
01:55 Tyson's Journey into Cybersecurity
02:13 Patent Law to Product Cybersecurity
04:29 Automotive Cybersecurity Challenges
10:58 Importance of Product Security Incident Response
14:33 Supply Chain Security in Automotive Industry
17:55 Human Risk in Automotive Cybersecurity
20:49 Legal Experience in Cybersecurity
26:14 Skills for Automotive Cybersecurity
29:07 Rapid Fire Questions
36:42 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

Connect with Tyson:
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tysonbenson/
- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@tysonbenson
- X: https://x.com/tysonbenson
- Discord: **0xTyson**

Harmonizing Cybersecurity: From Trombone to Tech with Debon Grady

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Today we chat with Debon Grady, an IT Security Specialist with the South Carolina Department of Mental Health. Debon shares his unique path from music education major to cybersecurity expert, discussing key moments, valuable skills learned, and the importance of mentorship.

Discover his thoughts on the relationship between red and blue teams, the significance of continuous learning, and his hobbies including video games and latte art. Stay tuned for rapid-fire questions and insights into Devin's approach to career success in cybersecurity.

Episode Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ldgv
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebonairCyber
- Discord: Debonair Cyber

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
00:06 Discovering Cybersecurity
00:45 Podcast Introduction
01:23 Devin's Journey into Cybersecurity
04:58 Skills from Music to Cybersecurity
06:48 Mentorship and Career Advice
08:55 Certifications and Job Search
15:23 Red Team vs Blue Team
17:03 Learning New Tools
19:17 Personal Interests and Hobbies
24:34 Rapid Fire Questions
26:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell

From Air Force to Cybersecurity A Journey of Leadership and Service With Cristina Pawlica

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Today we chat with Cristina Pawlica, a distinguished member of the Simply Cyber community with an extensive background in cybersecurity and military service. Cristina shares her unique journey from serving in the Air Force as a Force Support Officer to pursuing a career in cybersecurity.

She delves into crucial leadership lessons and discusses the significant role of cybersecurity in K-12 education institutions. The conversation touches on her active involvement in the 2010 Foundation, which supports Air Force Academy cadets, and her passion for volunteering and helping build cyber resilience.

This episode concludes with a rapid-fire segment, providing a fun glimpse into Christina's personal preferences and insights on cybersecurity.

Episode Links:
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-pawlica
- Foundation 2010 - https://www.2010foundation.org

Resources Mentioned in Interview:

- SimplyCyber Con Presentation - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7ssW-OScdQ
- SimplyCyberCon - https://simplycybercon.org

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Elevating Cyber Careers Podcast
00:31 Meet Christina Polla: From Air Force to Cybersecurity
01:35 Christina's Cybersecurity Journey
05:53 Leadership Lessons from the Air Force
09:38 Creating Cybersecurity Content on LinkedIn
14:05 Current State of Cybersecurity in K-12 Schools
23:44 The 2010 Foundation: A Class Initiative
26:17 Introduction to the 2010 Foundation
26:45 Cadet for a Day Program
27:23 Supporting Cadet Parents
27:58 Addressing Hardships at the Academy
29:43 The Importance of Volunteering
31:42 Travel and Cybersecurity
35:09 Rapid Fire Questions
44:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

AI Security Awareness and Quantum Computing: Insights from a Rising Cybersecurity Star

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Welcome back for Season 2! We kickoff with a graduating senior from Rensselaer Polytechnic University as she transitions from academic research to industry applications in the world of cybersecurity.

In this episode, we sit down with Shoshana Sugerman, to explore her journey from classroom to conference room. We delve into Shoshana's work on Grover's algorithm for quantum-enhanced threat detection and her experiences during a summer internship at Cisco.

Shoshana offers advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals, emphasizing the importance of networking, asking questions, and embracing failures as learning opportunities.

Episode Links:
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shoshanasugerman/

Resources Mentioned in Interview:
- ISC2 Congress Presentation to Brian & Shoshana’s presentation - https://www.isc2.org/Insights/2024/10/ISC2Congress-Generative-AI-for-Cybersecurity-Awareness-Training
- Quantum Paper: https://news.rpi.edu/2025/03/03/rensselaer-cybersecurity-collaboratory-researchers-break-new-ground-quantum-security
- Generative AI Article: https://www.techrepublic.com/article/generative-ai-security-training/
- Computer Coach Generative AI: Cybersecurity Awareness Training: Benefits, Limitations, & Skills for the Workforce: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7WqRrIPcYk

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Simply Secured Podcast
00:34 Meet Shoshanna Sugarman
02:46 Shoshanna's Journey into Cybersecurity
05:17 AI and Security Awareness Training
07:32 The Role of Human Oversight in AI
13:27 Generative AI in Education
16:14 Exploring Quantum Computing
21:15 Internship Experience at Cisco
25:32 Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Students
29:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

Cyber Lessons in Leadership with Fletus Poston III

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 09:30:00 -0400

In this episode we delve into the world of cybersecurity with Fleetus Poston III, a dynamic public speaker, passionate mentor, and cybersecurity evangelist.

Fleetus shares his journey, including his 'aha' moment in cybersecurity, handling imposter syndrome, the significance of a healthy security culture, and the impact of a recent reduction in force on his career.

He also discusses the importance of mentorship, his content creation on LinkedIn and YouTube, and offers invaluable advice for up-and-coming professionals in the field.

Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fletusposton
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fletusposton
- Website: https://www.fletusposton.com/
- Sessionize: https://sessionize.com/fletusposton/

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Elevating Cyber Careers Podcast
00:33 Meet the Guest: Fleet Us Poston II
01:57 Fleet Us Poston's Cybersecurity Journey
04:15 The Role of a Cybersecurity Evangelist
06:16 Building a Healthy Security Culture
16:04 Challenges in Cybersecurity Defense
18:25 The Future of AI in Cybersecurity
20:32 Mentorship and Career Advice
23:13 Sharing Wisdom and Staying Engaged
25:19 Content Creation and Micro Learning
26:06 Cybersecurity Awareness and Mentorship
29:31 Impact of Reduction in Force
35:45 Rapid Fire Questions
40:35 Final Thoughts and Advice

Navigating Cybersecurity and Community Engagement with FedX aka Federico Castro

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:30:00 -0400

This week, we chat with Federico Castro, a cybersecurity professional and member of the ISC2 Central Florida chapter, known by his nickname 'FedEx'.

We discuss FedX’s transition from physical security and construction into cybersecurity, fueled by his diagnosis of ADHD and his pursuit of education. Federico highlights the importance of networking, mentorship, and continuous learning in cybersecurity.

He also shares insights into his passions, family life, and his YouTube channel aimed at helping others break into the field.

Just like prior shows, we conclude with a fun rapid-fire question segment, revealing more about Federico's personality and interests.

Episode Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fedx-castro
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the-fedx-channel
- Discord Handle: FedX

Resources Mentioned in Interview:
- Central Florida ISC2: https://chapters-centralflorida.org
- Seminole Sate College - https://www.seminolestate.edu
- HackCFL - https://hackcfl.com

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:12 Federico's Journey into Cybersecurity
03:08 Advice for Beginners in Cybersecurity
05:31 The Importance of Networking and Mentorship
06:37 Conference Experiences and Insights
15:56 Passion for Technology and Early Influences
20:39 Starting a YouTube Channel and Helping Others
25:36 The Power of Community in Cybersecurity
27:42 Balancing Family and Tech
29:42 Involving the Next Generation
32:38 Finding Balance with Your Partner
33:46 Rapid Fire Questions
42:56 Reflecting on Career and Legacy

Airwaves to AI: Education and Innovation from Kathy Chambers

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:30:00 -0400

In this wonderful episode with Emmy award winning Kathy Chambers, we explore her fascinating journey as a project manager at Antisyphon Training with Black Hills Information Security.

Kathy's unique path from broadcast journalism to cybersecurity offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career transition or looking to leverage their existing skills in a new field.

Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathychambersllc
- email: kathy.chambers13@gmail.com
- Discord Handle: Kathy Chambers

Resources Mentioned in Interview:
- Simply Cyber Academy - [https://academy.simplycyber.io](https://academy.simplycyber.io/)
- AntiSyphon Training - [https://www.antisyphontraining.com](https://www.antisyphontraining.com/)
- Daniel Lowrie - YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@daniellowrie
- Daniel Lowrie - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellowrie/
- Red Siege - [https://redsiege.com](https://redsiege.com/)

Chapters:
00:00 Prepare to Podcast
00:22 Meet Kathy Chambers
01:43 Podcast Kickoff
03:05 Kathy's Journey into Cybersecurity
05:09 Transitioning Skills from News to Cybersecurity
11:58 Project Management Insights
14:36 Balancing Work and Life
16:02 Effective Training Formats
18:49 The Future of Cybersecurity Education
21:50 Introduction to Agricultural Education and Communication
22:20 Journey into Agriculture
24:15 Cybersecurity in Agriculture
25:54 Challenges in Agricultural Cybersecurity
28:14 Research and Solutions
32:19 Rapid Fire Questions
39:37 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Navigating the SOC Analyst Landscape Insights with Casually Joseph

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Join us for an exciting episode with Joseph Cadden, aka Casually Joseph, a passionate cybersecurity expert and Palo Alto MDR security analyst.

Joseph shares his fascinating journey from building gaming computers in high school to pursuing a master's degree and working in managed detection and response. We explore the importance of certifications, effective phishing prevention strategies, and the evolving impact of AI in security operations.

As a long-time member of the Simply Cyber Community, Joseph offers valuable insights for newcomers to the field while discussing how he balances work, studies, and his YouTube channel 'Learn to Defend Cyber.' Discover Joseph's perspectives on current security challenges, his educational path, personal interests, and future aspirations in cybersecurity.

Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephc-aka-casuallyjoseph/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learn2defendcyber
- Discord Handle: @CasuallyJoseph
- His own Meme: https://tenor.com/view/simply-cyber-casually-joseph-barricade-cyber-gif-2600407153368457556

Resources Mentioned in Interview:
- Luma Stealer / ClickFix - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/05/21/lumma-stealer-breaking-down-the-delivery-techniques-and-capabilities-of-a-prolific-infostealer/
- Gemini - http://gemini.google.com/
- Antisyphon Training - https://www.antisyphontraining.com
- Daily Cyber Threat Brief - Simply Cyber - https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyCyber
- Monday News - https://www.youtube.com/@BlackHillsInformationSecurity/streams

Certifications:
- CompTIA Security+, Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+), Network+ - https://www.comptia.org/
- ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) - https://www.isc2.org/
- EC-Council Certified Cybersecurity Technician (CCT) - https://www.eccouncil.org/
- GIAC (SANS Institute) GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) - https://www.giac.org/
- Cisco - Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate - https://www.cisco.com/

Chapters:
00:00 Prepare to Podcast
01:38 Meet Casually Joseph: A Cybersecurity Journey
02:25 From Building Computers to Cybersecurity
06:46 Pursuing Higher Education in Cybersecurity
11:37 The Role of an MDR Security Analyst
13:43 The Impact of AI in Cybersecurity
17:33 Certifications and Career Growth
23:31 Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals
24:29 Choosing the Right Certification Path
24:52 Training Resources and Certifications
25:52 YouTube Channel and Phishing Prevention
26:35 Proactive Steps for Email Security
27:45 Improving Blue Team Operations
30:06 Personal Perspectives and Resources
32:09 Rapid Fire
37:42 Future Threats and Cybersecurity Myths
39:24 Final Thoughts and Legacy
==========================================================
Connect with your host: James R. McQuiggan:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jmcquiggan
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jamesmcquiggancissp
Website: https://jamesmcquiggan.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesmcquiggan.cissp
Email: James@jamesmcquiggan.com
==========================================================
Simply Cyber empowers people who want a rewarding cybersecurity career 💪
==========================================================
Video Editing / Sound Engineering: Matthew Bliss, MB Podcasts - https://www.mbpod.com
YouTube Title Graphic: London Company
Video Podcast graphics: Katie McQuiggan (www.katiemcquiggan.com)
Music Provided by: AppleHillStudios at Envato Elements
=========================
Presented by Simply Cyber Media Group
=========================
All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber
https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials

Navigating Cyber Pathways: GRC, Volunteering, and YouTube with Bdubzz

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 09:30:00 -0400

In this episode we chat with Brittany White, also known as Bdubzz, a dynamic content creator who is passionate about cybersecurity. She shares her journey from CAD design to a successful career in cybersecurity, highlighting her pivotal 'aha' moment.

Brittany elaborates on her efforts in building a home lab and transitioning towards governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) work, emphasizing the importance of adaptable career plans aligned with family life. Bdubzz discusses the value of volunteering at cybersecurity events, her ongoing CISSP study group on YouTube, and her strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome.

The discussion also covers AI's impact on cybersecurity and the significance of balancing technical and soft skills in the industry.

Episode Links:

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bbrittwhite
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@b_dubzzz
- Website: https://brittwhite.io
- CISSP Study Group: https://cissp.brittwhite.io

Resources Mentioned in Interview:

- TCM Practical Junior Penetration Tester - https://certifications.tcm-sec.com/pjpt
- TryHackMe - https://tryhackme.com
- HacktheBox - https://www.hackthebox.com
- HackSpaceCon - https://www.hackspacecon.com
- BesidesDFW - https://bsidesdfw.com
- Phantom CISO - Mishaal Khan - https://www.mishaalkhan.com
- Burpsuite - https://portswigger.net/burp/communitydownload
- ISC2 Chapters - https://www.isc2.org/chapters/chapter-directory
- ISSA Chapters - https://www.members.issa.org/page/chapters

Chapters:

00:00 Prepare to Podcast
02:34 Bdubzz' Journey into Cybersecurity
05:08 Building a Home Lab and Pen Testing
06:13 Transition to Contract Work and GRC
09:14 Defining GRC and Its Importance
11:47 The Hacker Mindset in GRC
13:19 AI in GRC and Cybersecurity
15:12 Balancing Technical and Soft Skills
17:06 CISSP Training Series on YouTube
22:21 Teaching
24:39 Imposter Syndrome and Overcoming Challenges
25:29 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
26:14 The Power of Volunteering
26:52 First Conference Experience
29:27 Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals
30:12 Advice for Volunteering
31:49 Rapid Fire Questions
35:30 Legacy
36:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell
38:02 Wrap up

=========================
Music Provided by: AppleHillStudios at Envato Elements
=========================
Connect with your host: James R. McQuiggan:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jmcquiggan
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jamesmcquiggancissp
Website: https://jamesmcquiggan.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesmcquiggan.cissp
Email: James@jamesmcquiggan.com
=========================
Presented by Simply Cyber Media Group
=========================
All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber
https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials

Blending Bytes and Barley: Ryan Pearson's Unique Tech Adventure

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Ever wondered how a passion for home brewing could blend seamlessly with a career in cybersecurity? In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Pearson, known to many as "Brews n' Hacks," to explore the fascinating intersection of these two worlds and the valuable lessons they share.

Ryan's journey from biology student to cybersecurity professional is a testament to the power of following one's passions. His unique perspective on vulnerability management, threat intelligence, and the importance of continuous learning offers fresh insights for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field.

Whether you're a cybersecurity professional looking for fresh perspectives or a home brewing enthusiast curious about the world of digital security, Ryan's story offers a unique blend of insights that will inspire and inform. Join us as we explore the unexpected synergies between crafting the perfect brew and safeguarding our digital world.

Kia Ora!

Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-t-pearson
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrewsNHacks
- Website: https://brewsnhacks.com

Resources Mentioned in Interview:
- Shodan - https://www.shodan.io
- TV Show Leverage (Wikipedia) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leverage_(American_TV_series)
- Leverage Redemption Episode - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32407738
- Simply Cyber Con - https://simplycybercon.org/#

Chapters:
00:00 Prepare to Podcast
00:29 Episode Introduction
01:43 Ryan's Introduction
01:55 Welcome
02:21 Aha Moment
03:28 Kia Aura
06:33 Vulnerability Management Gaps
14:57 Cyber Threat Intelligence & OSINT
16:40 Cyber Hygiene Analyst
21:51 Brews 'n Hacks
26:58 Advice for your Passion
29:15 Rapid Fire
36:24 Wrap up

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Music Provided by: AppleHillStudios at Envato Elements
=========================
Connect with your host: James R. McQuiggan:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jmcquiggan
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jamesmcquiggancissp
Website: https://jamesmcquiggan.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesmcquiggan.cissp
Email: James@jamesmcquiggan.com
=========================
Presented by Simply Cyber Media Group
=========================
All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber
https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials

Cyber & Drones: Exploring the Intersection of OSINT and Vulnerabilities

Simply Cyber Media Group — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 09:30:00 -0400

In this episode, James interviews Luke Canfield, as he shares his path into cybersecurity, which started 20 years ago and was reignited by an interest in hardware tinkering and drones.

Luke discusses how he prioritizes vulnerabilities in systems, the significance of writing detailed reports, and the challenges faced in vulnerability management.

He also touches on the emerging threats involving drones in cyber warfare, and the future role of AI in open source intelligence (OSINT). Luke shares his professional experiences, the importance of networking, and personal projects such as utilizing drones for cybersecurity purposes.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or aspiring to enter the field, Luke's insights offer a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. Join us as we explore the intersection of technology, intelligence, and defense in the digital age.

Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-a-canfield/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Low_Sec_Luke
- Website: https://www.lsechub.com

Resources
- Reverse Image Search: https://lenso.ai/en
- WWHF - Wild West Hackin’ Fest - https://wildwesthackinfest.com
- SecureWV - https://www.securewv.org
- InoReader - https://www.inoreader.com
- VTOL Stallion Drone - https://flightory.com/product/stallion

Chapters
00:00 Prepare to Podcast
02:18 Aha Moment
03:27 Interest to go into Cybersecurity
05:19 Vulnerability Management
06:21 Drones
09:45 Drones & Cyber Technology
10:47 OSINT
12:21 OSINT and Geolocation
14:45 Conferences and Skill Building
18:44 Keeping with Threats
20:31 Research Projects
23:05 Rapid Fire
29:14 Wrap-up

=========================
Connect with your host: James R. McQuiggan:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jmcquiggan
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jamesmcquiggancissp
Website: https://jamesmcquiggan.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesmcquiggan.cissp
Email: James@jamesmcquiggan.com
=========================
Presented by Simply Cyber Media Group
=========================
All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber
https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials

Cyber and OSINT: Fueled by Curiosity

Simply Cyber Media Group — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Elevating Your Cybersecurity Career with Dennis Keefe: From Law Enforcement to OSINT

In this week's episode of 'Simply Secured: Elevating Your Cybersecurity Career,' we sit down with Dennis Keefe who transitioned from a decade-long career in law enforcement to becoming a cybersecurity enthusiast with a special focus on open source intelligence (OSINT).

Dennis shares his unique perspective, career journey, and valuable insights about breaking into the cybersecurity industry. We discuss his experiences in law enforcement, the importance of staying accountable, and the challenges of earning certifications.

Dennis also touches on his ongoing OSINT training, his passion for geo-intelligence, and his goals for the future, including helping others prevent burnout. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dennis Keefe!

Guest Links:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkeefe
Website - https://denniskeefe.me/
FedX Interview - https://youtu.be/05945HAUmsI
Kathy Chambers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathychambersllc/

OSINT Resources:
Geospy - http://Geospy.ai
Michael Bassell Book - https://a.co/d/j1e4IRz
Mishaal Khan Training - https://www.mishaalkhan.com

Chapters:
00:00 Prepare to Podcast
01:39 Introduction of Dennis Keefe
02:22 Not Your First Career
03:36 Law Enforcement Impacting Cybersecurity
04:43 Technical Mistake to Life Lesson
06:33 Dennis' Website
10:43 2024 Goals Status
14:11 2025 Goals
19:33 OSINT Likes
20:55 OSINT Journey Status
21:42 Continuing the OSINT Journey
22:55 AI & OSINT
24:35 OSINT Future Studies
26:50 Rapid Fire Segment
31:04 Wrap-up & Goodbye