CCN Conversations

Canadian Cybersecurity Network

CCN Conversations is the official podcast of the Canadian Cybersecurity Network, created to bring real voices and real experience directly to the cybersecurity community. Hosted by Francois Guay, founder of CCN, each episode opens the door to the people who are shaping how Canada protects, innovates, and grows. This show brings you candid conversations with practitioners, CISOs, founders, researchers, builders, and rising talent from Canada and beyond. You will hear honest insight and stories that cut through noise and focus on what truly matters in security and technology today. Whether you want to understand how modern security programs operate, learn what it takes to grow a cyber business, stay ahead of fast moving threats, or build a career that can thrive in a world of constant change, this is where you begin. Welcome to the conversation.

  1. From Non-Technical to Cybersecurity: Sophia Kudlyk’s Journey

    4D AGO

    From Non-Technical to Cybersecurity: Sophia Kudlyk’s Journey

    In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Sophia Kudlyk about her journey into cybersecurity and what it really takes to break into the industry today. Sophia shares her non-traditional path into cyber, highlighting the challenges, doubts, and turning points that shaped her career. Her story reflects a reality many aspiring professionals face: there is no single “right” way into cybersecurity. The conversation explores the gap between how cybersecurity careers are often presented and what they actually look like in practice. Sophia emphasizes the importance of curiosity, persistence, and learning through experience rather than waiting to feel “ready.” They also discuss the role of community, mentorship, and visibility in helping people navigate the industry, especially those coming from non-technical or unconventional backgrounds. This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to break into cybersecurity, pivot their career, or better understand how real entry points into the industry actually work. Listen now and join the conversation.

    15 min
  2. From Cold War to AI: A Cybersecurity Perspective with David Masson

    APR 1

    From Cold War to AI: A Cybersecurity Perspective with David Masson

    In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with David Masson of Darktrace. With decades of experience spanning from early computer network exploitation to today’s AI driven security landscape, David brings a rare long term perspective on how cybersecurity has actually evolved. The conversation explores how cyber threats have shifted from supporting operations to becoming the primary attack vector, and why many organizations are still struggling to keep up. A key theme throughout the episode is the industry’s reliance on reactive security. David challenges the idea that solutions should come after damage, and highlights the need to move toward real time detection and response. They also dive into how AI is truly being used in cybersecurity today. Not just large language models, but a broader set of technologies that detect change, identify threats, and support human decision making at scale. The discussion also covers the growing risks around critical infrastructure and operational technology, where increasing connectivity is introducing new vulnerabilities across essential systems. Finally, David shares his perspective on talent in cybersecurity, emphasizing that technical skills alone are not enough. Curiosity, communication, and problem solving are just as critical for success. This episode is a strong reminder that cybersecurity is not new, but the way we approach it still needs to evolve. Listen now and join the conversation.

    25 min
  3. Why Trust Is the Foundation of Cybersecurity and Manufacturing with Jayson Myers

    MAR 24

    Why Trust Is the Foundation of Cybersecurity and Manufacturing with Jayson Myers

    In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Jayson Myers, CEO of Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen). Jayson shares insights from his experience leading one of Canada’s most important innovation organizations, focused on advancing manufacturing capabilities across the country. The conversation explores Canada’s position in advanced manufacturing, highlighting a critical gap between innovation and adoption. While Canada produces world class technologies and research, many organizations struggle to fully implement and operationalize them. They also discuss the role of cybersecurity in modern manufacturing environments, where digital systems, AI, and interconnected supply chains introduce new risks. Jayson emphasizes that cybersecurity is not just a technical issue, but a strategic business priority built on trust. The discussion also covers workforce readiness, the importance of collaboration across ecosystems, and why organizations must align technology investments with business objectives to remain competitive globally. This episode is essential listening for leaders, innovators, and organizations navigating the intersection of cybersecurity, manufacturing, and digital transformation. Listen now and join the conversation.

    20 min
  4. From English Lit to Cybersecurity Founder with Tracey Nyholt

    MAR 17

    From English Lit to Cybersecurity Founder with Tracey Nyholt

    In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with Tracey Nyholt, founder and CEO of TechJutsu. Tracey shares her unconventional path into cybersecurity, beginning with an English literature degree and working her way into the industry by teaching herself technical skills and learning through hands on experience. The conversation explores the founding of TechJutsu, a Calgary based cybersecurity company focused on identity and access management and solving one of the most overlooked attack vectors in organizations today: help desk authentication. Tracey explains how attackers exploit call centers to reset passwords and bypass security controls, and how her team developed technology to protect against those attacks. Francois and Tracey also discuss the realities of building a cybersecurity company, including scaling into international markets, navigating emerging technologies like AI and quantum, and the importance of listening to customers when developing security products. The episode also highlights career development in cybersecurity, the importance of communication skills, and lessons for aspiring founders entering the industry. Listen now and join the conversation.

    12 min
  5. Curiosity, Community, and Creating Opportunity in Cybersecurity with Julien Richard

    MAR 10

    Curiosity, Community, and Creating Opportunity in Cybersecurity with Julien Richard

    In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Julien Richard, Vice President of Information Security at Lastwall. Julien shares his journey into cybersecurity more than two decades ago, long before the field was widely recognized. From early work in FinTech and network administration to leadership in security, his career highlights the role curiosity and persistence play in building expertise. The conversation explores the importance of mentorship, community building, and why curiosity and a thirst for knowledge are often more valuable than technical skills alone. Julien also discusses his work helping build cybersecurity communities in Atlantic Canada and his involvement in initiatives that bring policymakers and practitioners together to better inform cybersecurity policy. Francois and Julien also dive into career development in cybersecurity, including how authenticity, curiosity, and preparation can help professionals stand out in a competitive job market. This episode offers practical advice for anyone entering the cybersecurity field, along with insight into how community and policy influence the future of the industry. Listen now and join the conversation

    18 min
  6. Networking, AI, and the Reality of Getting Hired in Cybersecurity with Anthony Green

    MAR 3

    Networking, AI, and the Reality of Getting Hired in Cybersecurity with Anthony Green

    In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with Anthony Green, CISO Consultant, Educator, and Founder of Green Hat Security. Anthony shares his journey from building computers and hacking FarmVille as a teenager to leading ISACA Vancouver as one of its youngest presidents. The conversation explores the power of networking, community involvement, and how leadership roles shaped his professional growth. They also dive deep into the realities of entering cybersecurity today. Anthony explains why school alone is not enough, why certifications and personal projects matter, and why networking can be the deciding factor between landing a job and being overlooked. The episode tackles AI’s impact on productivity and the widening skill gap, critical thinking in the next generation of professionals, and why managers must learn how to properly train junior talent. If you are a student, hiring manager, mentor, or cybersecurity professional navigating today’s evolving landscape, this conversation is packed with practical insight. Listen now and join the conversation.

    27 min
  7. Human-Centric Cybersecurity Awareness with Roberto Ishmael Pennino

    FEB 24

    Human-Centric Cybersecurity Awareness with Roberto Ishmael Pennino

    In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with Roberto Ishmael Pennino to explore the power of human-centric cybersecurity. Roberto shares his unconventional journey from education and healthcare into cybersecurity, where he now specializes in awareness and knowledge translation. He discusses how translating complex technical concepts into practical, relatable guidance is critical to protecting individuals across society, from children to seniors. The conversation covers hands-on training, the importance of certifications, community involvement through the Canadian Cybersecurity Network, and why cybersecurity cannot succeed if it focuses only on systems instead of people. Roberto also shares his recent transition into a cybersecurity awareness role at TELUS and reflects on the persistence, relationships, and belief required to succeed in this field. If you are interested in cybersecurity careers, awareness initiatives, or strengthening the human side of security, this episode is for you. Listen now and join the conversation.

    15 min
  8. Collaboration, Community, and Cyber Resilience with Jennifer Quaid

    FEB 17

    Collaboration, Community, and Cyber Resilience with Jennifer Quaid

    In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Jennifer Quaid, Executive Director of the Canadian Cyber Threat Exchange (CCTX). Jennifer shares her unconventional path into cybersecurity, from political science and communications to leading one of Canada’s most important cyber threat collaboration organizations. She reflects on surviving major cyber attacks in small businesses, the realities of burnout in cyber, and why nobody truly joins this field for comfort. The conversation explores how CCTX enables over 200 member organizations across 16 sectors to collaborate on threats, share intelligence, and strengthen resilience together. Jennifer explains why cybersecurity is not simply an IT issue, but a business-wide risk that belongs within an organization’s risk function. They also discuss the current state of the cybersecurity market, the challenges facing new entrants, the importance of certifications early in a career, and why soft skills and clear communication are critical for long-term success. The episode closes with a powerful reminder: threat actors collaborate constantly. Defenders must do the same. Listen now and join the conversation.

    14 min
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Trailer

About

CCN Conversations is the official podcast of the Canadian Cybersecurity Network, created to bring real voices and real experience directly to the cybersecurity community. Hosted by Francois Guay, founder of CCN, each episode opens the door to the people who are shaping how Canada protects, innovates, and grows. This show brings you candid conversations with practitioners, CISOs, founders, researchers, builders, and rising talent from Canada and beyond. You will hear honest insight and stories that cut through noise and focus on what truly matters in security and technology today. Whether you want to understand how modern security programs operate, learn what it takes to grow a cyber business, stay ahead of fast moving threats, or build a career that can thrive in a world of constant change, this is where you begin. Welcome to the conversation.

Information

  • Creator
    Canadian Cybersecurity Network
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Canadian Cybersecurity Network
  • Show Website
    CCN Conversations