Host George McPherson interviews IT and cybersecurity professionals.
Episode 5 | BlakCyber Podcast: Interview with Keith Underhill
Originally premiered Mar 28, 2020ABOUT THIS EPISODE:The Blak Cyber podcast sits down to talk to Ken Underhill, Ken has been featured in Forbes, Reader's Digest, Medium, Tech Republic, Fox, NBC, Dark Reading, Voyage Houston Magazine, MSN Money, and many more places. In Ken's own words "I sometimes do cybersecurity product and service reviews (cybersecurity influencer marketing). Reach out to me if you need that service. All my reviews will be honest feedback, good or bad." I have personally known Ken for couple years now, and his impact onCybersecurity community can not be measured, he goes above and beyond expectations.Please subscribe and share to support this podcast.Ken's LinkedIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenunderhill/
4/19/2024 • 46 minutes, 9 seconds
Episode 3 | BlakCyber Podcast: Interview with Chelsea Pierre
Originally premiered Apr 11, 2020ABOUT THIS EPISODE:In this episode I sit down with Chelsea Pierre who is a a Speaker, Cyber-security Professional, and Certification Instructor. She talks about how to get into Cyber Security, and different adversities minorities, and women face in their journey. One of the many great stories Chelsea spoke on was one were she was able to talk to another minority women struggling to find her way into the industry, Chelsea was able to connect with her and have positive impact on her career, we need more crusaders like her ready to be the light when security hopefuls struggle to find their way.Please subscribe and share to support this podcast.Chelsea's LinkedIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseapierre/
4/19/2024 • 32 minutes, 39 seconds
Episode 2 | BlakCyber Podcast: Interview Keyaan Williams
Originally premiered Jan 4, 2021ABOUT THIS EPISODE:The Blak Cyber podcast sits down for its first episode of 2021 to talk to Keyaan Williams, founder and Managing Director of Cyber Leadership and Strategy Solutions (CLASS-LLC), a global professional services firm that specializes in corporate governance and cybersecurity-focused enterprise risk management solutions for US-based and international customers in financial services, defense, health technology, logistics and shipping, oil and gas, cloud services, and education technology, and national and local governments. Prior to CLASS-LLC, he has dedicated more than two decades to developing and supporting programs in large, regulated enterprises. Beyond security, Keyaan established his reputation for executive leadership as President of the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) International Board of Directors. He currently serves as the chair of the risk committee for a global non-profit and is a founding member of the Atlanta Chapter of the Private Directors Association.Please subscribe and share to support this podcast.Keyaan's Websites:1. Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keyaan/2. Professional Website: https://class-llc.com/
4/19/2024 • 36 minutes, 28 seconds
Episode 4 | BlakCyber Podcast: Interview with Yatia Hopkins
Originally premiered Nov 2, 2020ABOUT THIS EPISODE:The Blak Cyber podcast sits down to talk to Yatia "Tia" Hopkins, the award winning, and accomplishedCybersecurity VP about her career, her teaching style and master plan to Empow(H)er African American women in the Cyber Security field. In Tia's own words "I am a Cybersecurity Executive who has spent the past 20+ years of my career in various IT and IT Security roles with over a decade of experience in the managed services space. My work focuses on helping organizations achieve cyber resilience through effective and efficient combinations of people, process, and technology; as well as influencing the rapid transformation and market value of high-growth, disruptive cybersecurity start-ups through market research and education, thought leadership and evangelism, product messaging, competitive differentiation, and roadmap guidance."Please subscribe and share to support this podcast.Yatia's LinkedIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/yatiahopkins/
4/19/2024 • 32 minutes, 45 seconds
Defense Against the Dark Web, Episode 5: Insider Threats with Dov Lerner
In this illuminating episode of “Defense Against the Dark Web,” Cybersixgill’s Intelligence Research Lead, Dov Lerner, joins host Delilah Schwartz to take listeners deep inside the hidden world of insider threats. Lerner, who conducted extensive research tracking the activities of malicious insiders and their threat actor recruiters across the deep and dark web, shares surprising findings about the diverse array of threats that can originate from within an organization’s walls.From petty scams perpetrated with the help of employees in retail, telecommunications and shipping industries to audacious attempts by threat actors to recruit insiders in financial institutions or government entities with high-level access and security clearances, Lerner illustrates how these “wolves in sheep’s clothing” can quietly inflict harm from inside an organization’s networks without detection.Lerner also offers perspective on industries most impacted, common insider tactics, and the challenges of prevention against insiders who intimately understand their targets’ systems, processes and security protocols. These insider threats, according to Lerner, often go undetected, but collectively result in significant losses - likening these incidents to a ‘death by a thousand paper cuts’.For those tasked with cyber defense, Lerner offers a sobering perspective on the challenges of detecting these stealthy insider threats, and suggests several defensive strategies that can be implemented to protect against them. In this in-depth podcast discussion with host Delilah Schwartz, Lerner peels back the layers on one of the most pernicious yet underreported threats to the organizational attack surface - insider threats operating from within.
10/6/2023 • 43 minutes, 30 seconds
Defense against the Dark Web Episode 4: Cybercriminal communities Russia and China
9/11/2023 • 29 minutes, 47 seconds
Defense against the Dark Web: Episode 3 - Women in Cyber
For International Women in Cyber Day, this special podcast episode features a discussion between cybersecurity professionals Naomi Yusupov, Daniella Reyhanian Ohana, and host Delilah Schwartz. The three women reflect on their career journeys, each having unexpectedly entered the male-dominated cyber industry without prior technical training, and how they each overcame imposter syndrome by proving their skills and excelling in their roles.The women also discuss the complex challenges women face as they attempt to balance work in a demanding field with equally demanding family responsibilities. They explore the common experience of facing underestimation when embracing their femininity through appearance and style.The episode highlights overcoming barriers through creativity, advocating respectfully for oneself, and cultivating an inclusive culture through mentorship, mutual support, and flexibility for working mothers in the workplace. By sharing experiences of proving competency despite obstacles and fostering camaraderie, Naomi, Daniella and Delilah hope to encourage more diversity and empowerment in their important work.
9/6/2023 • 46 minutes, 55 seconds
Defense Against the Dark Web. Ep 02 Part II: The Promises and Perils of Generative AI for Cybersecurity
In this second part of our podcast episode, join us as we delve deep into the realm of Generative AI and its intricate relationship with cybersecurity and Governance Risk and Compliance (GRC). Our guest, Chris Strand, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Cybersixgill, brings his wealth of expertise to illuminate the promises and potential pitfalls of Generative AI in this domain.Exploring the convergence of cutting-edge technology and security protocols, Chris and Delilah engage in a candid discussion about the profound impact of Generative AI on the cyber landscape. Unveil how Generative AI holds the potential to revolutionize cybersecurity and compliance processes, offering enhanced streamlining and optimization capabilities that empower organizations to easily navigate the audit process and bolster overall cyber resilience.Yet, with innovation comes responsibility. Tune in as Chris and Delilah dissect the challenges and vulnerabilities associated with Generative AI. Understand the intricate dance between the advancements it offers and the potential threats it poses to cybersecurity, and delve deep into how Generative AI can potentially disrupt the availability, integrity, and privacy of critical data.As the conversation unfolds, Chris and Delilah shine a spotlight on the regulatory intricacies surrounding the use of Generative AI. The dialogue traverses the complexities organizations may encounter as they navigate compliance within this rapidly evolving landscape.Cybercriminals, ever vigilant, are not far behind. Chris and Delilah share critical insights into how threat actors can exploit and manipulate Generative AI solutions, not only as a tool to optimize and accelerate their malicious operations, but as a target for the attack itself.Lastly, gain insight into the global efforts to regulate the deployment and utilization of Generative AI, and an exploration of the strategic endeavors aimed at striking a balance between innovation and security.Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation as Chris Strand and Delilah Schwartz provide a comprehensive guide to navigating the intricate landscape of Generative AI within the realms of cybersecurity and GRC. Tune in for insights, revelations, and a deeper understanding of the dynamic forces at play.
8/15/2023 • 24 minutes, 25 seconds
Defense Against the Dark Web. Ep 02 Part I: Navigating GRC with some help from CTI
In the dynamic realm of cybersecurity, safeguarding against threats and adhering to regulations pose paramount challenges for organizations. In this first segment of our two-part podcast episode, we're joined by Chris Strand, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Cybersixgill. Leveraging his extensive background as a former security auditor, Chris imparts invaluable insights into the intersection between Governance Risk and Compliance (GRC) and Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI).Drawing a parallel to dental check-ups, Chris emphasizes GRC's significance in maintaining comprehensive cyber hygiene. No one jumps for joy at the prospect of an audit, much like visiting the dentist's office, but it's a crucial task that organizations must undertake. The key, according to Chris, is to make the audit process as smooth and painless as possible, akin to a quick dental check-up rather than a time-consuming root canal.Chris delves into practical best practices that organizations can implement to streamline the audit process. He emphasizes the pivotal role of attack surface management and threat intelligence, particularly vulnerability exploit intelligence. These practices not only ensure compliance with cybersecurity mandates but also help organizations identify areas that need protection and bridge security gaps. Furthermore, they enable effective vulnerability analyses and prioritization, justifying decision-making while providing an intelligence audit trail for stakeholders and auditors.Reflecting on the evolution of the cybersecurity landscape, Chris and Delilah discuss the shifting dynamic between risk management and threat intelligence functions within organizations. While they used to operate in separate silos, recent years have witnessed a significant increase in cooperation between these functions. This collaboration not only enhances an organization's overall security posture but also facilitates a more efficient audit process.Tune in to the first part of this engaging podcast interview as Chris Strand brings his wealth of knowledge to the forefront. Gain insights into the strategic integration of GRC and CTI, discover practical approaches to navigating audits, and learn how organizations can foster a proactive cybersecurity culture while meeting regulatory demands.Stay tuned for Part 2 of this illuminating conversation, where Chris dives deeper into the nexus of GRC, CTI, and the world of Generative AI.
8/15/2023 • 29 minutes, 2 seconds
Defense Against the Dark Web. Ep 01: A Focus on the Healthcare Sector
In this episode of Defending Against the Dark, our host Delilah Schwartz sits down with Offir Levy, Vice President of Healthcare Sales EMEA for Medigate by Claroty. Join us as we delve into the crucial topic of cybersecurity within the Healthcare industry and explore the challenges that healthcare organizations face in safeguarding their digital assets, devices and patient data from malicious cyber criminals.Together, Delilah and Offir examine the evolving landscape of cyber threats and shed light on the unique vulnerabilities that healthcare institutions encounter in their pursuit of delivering quality patient care.Discover the far-reaching implications of cyberattacks in the healthcare space and gain valuable insights into the proactive measures that can be implemented to fortify defenses against malicious actors. From ransomware attacks to the rise of IoT devices in healthcare settings, this episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted challenges and potential solutions.
7/13/2023 • 52 minutes, 5 seconds
Blak Cyber Podcast: Interview with Kanika Tolver
Cybersixgill Presents an encore episode of George McPherson's Blak Cyber podcast. Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Google | RSS | DownloadListen in as Blak Cyber’s George McPherson is joined by Kanika Tolver, a decorated technology Federal Government employee, author, and CEO and Founder of Career Rehab, LLC. In her book Career Rehab: Rebuild Your Personal Brand and Rethink the Way You Work, she helps readers strip away what’s holding them back to create the career of their dreams. As an in-demand coach, consultant, speaker, and thought leader, Kanika has been featured on CNN, CNBC, CBS Radio, Yahoo, Glassdoor, Black Enterprise, Entrepreneur, and the Washington Post. Kanika shares how she started her career in technology and why she got into career coaching. Learn how the blueprint of entry into the IT industry has evolved, how certifications can help you get the job you want, and why you need to dial into a niche. Find out how you can maximize and market yourself to get ahead in your IT career.Originally aired on April 5, 2020 ABOUT THIS EPISODE: I sit down with Technology Professional turned Career Coach Superstar, Kanika Tolver! We discuss strategies to start or re-vamp your IT career, and how to re-invent yourself into a Brand during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Kanika has also been featured in the Washington Post, LinkedIn, CNBC, Black Enterprise, CNN, Govloop, Entrepreneur, Dice, Tech Republic, CompTIA, Glassdoor, and on the CBS Radio Network. Kanika is an extremely motivated Certified AWS Solutions Architect and ServiceNow Project Manager with agile software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity experience. Well-versed in gathering business requirements, performing security reviews, and deploying cloud applications. Prepares project timelines, design architectures, and release management plans.
12/11/2022 • 15 minutes, 51 seconds
Blak Cyber Podcast: Interview with Michael Echols
Cybersixgill Presents an encore episode of George McPherson's Blak Cyber podcast. Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Google | RSS | DownloadThis week, Blak Cyber’s George McPherson sits down with Michael A. Echols, CEO and Founder of MAX Cybersecurity LLC, an 8a company whose clients include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Department of Homeland Security, and Transportation Security Administration, to name a few. Michael is a senior cybersecurity executive and critical infrastructure protection strategist. He works with senior corporate leaders and government officials to make the nation more resilient through enhanced threat information sharing, CMMC requirements, and expanding cyber domain control in education, health, transportation, and government sectors. Previously, Michael managed cyber resiliency programs for the Department of Homeland Security and served as the point person for the rollout of President Obama's Executive Order Promoting Private Sector Cybersecurity Information Sharing. He developed a national program for risk management and cyber education and chaired the Communications Sector Government Coordinating Council (GCC) and the Network Security Information Exchange.Michael discusses how he went from telecom to government work thwarting terrorists with technology. He shares why mentorship is important, how to use your skills to build yourself up, and why you need to study to excel. Learn why the average person needs to protect their digital lives and more.Originally premiered Mar 26, 2020ABOUT THIS EPISODE: The Blak Cyber podcast sits down to talk to Michael A. Echols, He dropped some jewels, and decoded the matrix!Michael A. Echols is the founder on Max Cybersecurity LLC, a Washington DC 8a company with clients including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Department of Homeland Security, APTA, and Transportation Security Administration. Mr. Echols is a senior cybersecurity executive and critical infrastructure protection strategist working with senior corporate leaders and government officials to make the nation more resilient. He offers cybersecurity consultation through Max Cybersecurity LLC. He is leading a revolution to stand up and support leading security practices, enhance threat Information Sharing, meet CMMC requirements and expand cyber domain control for the Education, Health, Transportation, and Government Sectors. As such, Mr. Echols leads a global effort to holistically harmonize cyber management. Previously, Mr. Echols managed cyber resiliency programs for the Department of Homeland Security while assisting in the advancement of national risk reduction practices. As the point person for the rollout of President Obama's EO 13691, he developed a national program for risk management and cyber education. Mr. Echols Chaired the Communications Sector GCC and the Network Security Information Exchange.
12/4/2022 • 22 minutes, 55 seconds
Blak Cyber Podcast: Interview with Ken Underhill
Cybersixgill Presents an encore episode of George McPherson's Blak Cyber podcast. Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Google | RSSIn the latest Blak Cyber podcast, George McPherson speaks with Ken Underhill, CEO and Executive Producer of Cyber Life. A recognized and award-winning cybersecurity expert, Ken has been featured in Forbes, Reader's Digest, Medium, Tech Republic, Fox, NBC, Dark Reading, Voyage Houston Magazine, MSN Money, and more. George has known Ken for a few years now and can attest to the positive impact Ken has had on the cybersecurity community.In this episode, Ken discusses his cybersecurity journey, finding purpose and focusing on the positives. Learn about best practices to prepare for cybersecurity certifications and the importance of empowering people with the skill sets they need to close the skills gap.Originally premiered Mar 28, 2020ABOUT THIS EPISODE: The Blak Cyber podcast sits down to talk to Ken Underhill, Ken has been featured in Forbes, Reader's Digest, Medium, Tech Republic, Fox, NBC, Dark Reading, Voyage Houston Magazine, MSN Money, and many more places. In Ken's own words "I sometimes do cybersecurity product and service reviews (cybersecurity influencer marketing). Reach out to me if you need that service. All my reviews will be honest feedback, good or bad." I have personally known Ken for a couple of years, and his impact on the Cybersecurity community can not be measured, he goes above and beyond expectations.
11/27/2022 • 46 minutes, 9 seconds
Blak Cyber Podcast: Interview with Yatia Hopkins
Cybersixgill Presents an encore episode of George McPherson's Blak Cyber podcast. Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Google | RSSBlak Cyber podcast’s George McPherson sits down with Yatia “Tia” Hopkins, an award-winning cybersecurity executive who is currently Field CTO and Cyber Risk Strategist at eSentire. She is also an adjunct professor of cybersecurity at Yeshiva University, is pursuing her Ph.D. in Cybersecurity Technology Innovation Management, and is the founder of Empow(H)er Cybersecurity, a 501(c)(3) organization focused on providing a safe space for women of color interested in or currently working in the field of cybersecurity. Tia’s mission is to help drive the growth and success of the cybersecurity industry, and she is committed to creating the next generation of cybersecurity professionals who are as diverse and inclusive as possible. Learn about Tia’s journey in the cybersecurity industry and the core values that enabled her success. She shares the importance of critical thinking, why every conversation is about positioning yourself, how to lower the perceived barrier of entry into cybersecurity, and more.Originally premiered Nov 2, 2020ABOUT THIS EPISODE:The Blak Cyber podcast talks with Yatia "Tia" Hopkins, the award-winning, and accomplished cybersecurity VP, about her career, teaching style, and master plan to Empow(H)er African American women in the Cyber Security field. Tia says, "I am a Cybersecurity Executive who has spent the past 20+ years of my career in various IT and IT Security roles with over a decade of experience in the managed services space. My work focuses on helping organizations achieve cyber resilience through effective and efficient combinations of people, process, and technology; as well as influencing the rapid transformation and market value of high-growth, disruptive cybersecurity start-ups through market research and education, thought leadership and evangelism, product messaging, competitive differentiation, and roadmap guidance."
11/9/2022 • 32 minutes, 45 seconds
Blak Cyber Podcast: Interview with Chelsea Pierre
Cybersixgill Presents an encore episode of George McPherson's Blak Cyber podcast. Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Google | RSSThis week’s Blak Cyber podcast with George McPherson presents an interview with Chelsea Pierre, CEO of Blerds Leading Technology, whose vision is to create the strongest group of minority leaders in the technology industry. At age 21, Chelsea joined the United States Airforce, where she was introduced to IT. Today, she is a sought-after speaker, cybersecurity professional, thought leader, and certification instructor. Listen as Chelsea discusses the lack of African-American women in cybersecurity and their challenges on issues such as barriers to entry, career advancements, and equal pay. She also shares what drew her to cybersecurity, why she wanted to be a mentor and the importance of knowing your worth.Premiered initially Apr 11, 2020ABOUT THIS EPISODE: In this episode, I sit down with Chelsea Pierre, is a speaker, cybersecurity professional, and certification instructor. She talks about how to get into cybersecurity and the different adversities minorities and women face in their journey. One of the many great stories Chelsea spoke on was one where she was able to talk to another minority woman struggling to find her way into the industry. Chelsea was able to connect with her and have a positive impact on her career. We need more crusaders like her ready to be the light when security hopefuls struggle to find their way.
11/2/2022 • 32 minutes, 39 seconds
Blak Cyber Podcast: Interview with Keyaan Williams
Cybersixgill Presents an encore episode of George McPherson's Blak Cyber podcast. Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Google | RSSIn this week’s Blak Cyber podcast, host George McPherson sits down with Keyaan Williams, founder and Managing Director of Cyber Leadership and Strategy Solutions (CLASS-LLC). A global professional services firm, the company specializes in corporate governance and cybersecurity-focused enterprise risk management solutions in financial services, defense, health technology, logistics and shipping, oil and gas, cloud services, education technology, and government. Keyaan served as President of the Information Systems Security Association’s (ISSA) International Board of Directors and is a founding member of the Atlanta Chapter of the Private Directors Association.Keyann shares his journey in the cybersecurity industry, how he cultivates leadership skills, the evolution of the CISO, and the importance of learning through experiences and being open to every opportunity. Premiered initially Jan 4, 2021. ABOUT THIS EPISODE: The Blak Cyber podcast sits down for its first episode of 2021 to talk to Keyaan Williams, founder and Managing Director of Cyber Leadership and Strategy Solutions (CLASS-LLC), a global professional services firm that specializes in corporate governance and cybersecurity-focused enterprise risk management solutions for US-based and international customers in financial services, defense, health technology, logistics and shipping, oil and gas, cloud services, and education technology, and national and local governments. Prior to CLASS-LLC, he has dedicated more than two decades to developing and supporting programs in large, regulated enterprises. Beyond security, Keyaan established his reputation for executive leadership as President of the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) International Board of Directors. He currently serves as the chair of the risk committee for a global non-profit and is a founding member of the Atlanta Chapter of the Private Directors Association.
10/29/2022 • 36 minutes, 6 seconds
Blak Cyber Podcast: How ignorance started my cybersecurity career
Cybersixgill Presents an encore episode of George McPherson's Blak Cyber podcast. Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Google | RSSWe are excited to announce our new weekly podcast series in partnership with George McPherson, cyber threat intelligence and risk management expert. Every Monday, we will bring a new podcast where George and esteemed guests share their personal stories of how they started in cybersecurity and insights into the latest industry news and trends.Join us as George shares in How Ignorance Started My Cybersecurity Career, the start of his journey into the cybersecurity industry, and how the podcast can address the critical shortage of African Americans in cybersecurity and help close the skills gap.Premiered initially on March 29, 2020. ABOUT THIS EPISODE: Today, on my first podcast episode, I talk about how I naively thought getting the CISSP could instantly make me $100,000 a year. Fortunately, this moment of not having a clue led me done a unique and fulfilling path into Cyber security. This 9-year journey which I am still on, has been worth way more than the $100,000 coveted salary mark I was initially seeking. Here's to having a healthy dose of ignorance. Join me as we dive into all areas of cyber and the lives of excellent cyber professionals. Please subscribe and share to support this podcast.Learn more: http://news.cybersixgill.com. Thanks for listening.