Detonation Point

Matt O'Neill
  • 5.0 (8)
  • TECHNOLOGY

Hosted by Matt O'Neill, retired U.S. Secret Service Special Agent Detonation Point is where powerful conversations spark. Each episode brings you into the room with fascinating guests as they share their stories, dive into cutting-edge technology, and tackle the challenges of fighting crime in the 21st century. Along the way, expect insider insights from a career spent protecting leaders and confronting threats, plus a few detours into Philadelphia Eagles football. Go Birds. 🦅

  1. 2D AGO

    Episode 23 - The Future of Sales: Trust, Authenticity, and AI with Zack Martin

    Host Matt O’Neill and Zack Martin, Sales and BD Lead at CipherOwl, a blockchain analytics company, explore the intricacies of sales in both government and commercial sectors. They discuss the evolution of sales in the digital age, the importance of trust and authenticity, and the impact of AI on sales processes. The conversation emphasizes curiosity, problem-solving, and building genuine relationships, while also touching on industry challenges, leadership qualities, and the future of sales in a technology-driven world in this episode of Detonation Point, presented by Elastio. Takeaways Sales is a people business, and relationships matter.Trust and authenticity are crucial in sales.AI is changing the landscape of sales and investigations.Curiosity and problem-solving are key traits for successful salespeople.Sales techniques can be learned from various fields, including law enforcement.Building a strong team culture is essential for success.The importance of listening and asking the right questions cannot be overstated.Sales is not a linear process; it requires adaptability.Understanding the market dynamics is vital for new salespeople. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sales and Personal Journeys 03:47 Lessons from Bear Stearns and Sales Resilience 06:08 The Important of Curiosity in Sales 08:47 Strategies for Breaking into Government Sales 11:26 The Unique Challenges of Sales in Different Markets 12:52 The Evolution of Sales Processes 14:05 Human Connection vs. AI in Sales 17:29 Building Trust in High-Stakes Situations 22:08 Learning from Rejection in Sales 31:14 Navigating New Markets and Hypergrowth 32:40 Empathy and Authenticity in Sales 35:20 Navigating the Complexity of Digital Assets 38:52 The Role of AI in Investigations 40:31 Human vs Machine: The Future of Investigative Work 43:05 The Importance of Authenticity in Communication 46:17 Qualities of Effective Founders and Leaders 49:40 Building Relationships in Business and Sales About Our Founding Sponsor, Elastio  This podcast is proudly presented by Elastio, the control point for cyber resiliency—because survival depends on clean recoveries. As our Founding Sponsor, Elastio continuously validates backups, bridging the gap between security tools and immutable storage. With AI-driven detection and zero-day recovery, Elastio ensures data is clean, uncompromised, and always recoverable. Learn more: www.elastio.com

    59 min

  2. FEB 2

    Episode 22 - Too Small to be a Target? The Real Cost of Small Business Cyberattacks w/ Sierra Perna

    In this conversation, Sierra Perna from Warhorse Cyber discusses the critical importance of cybersecurity for small businesses, emphasizing the accessibility of their services and the real costs associated with cyber incidents. She highlights the vulnerabilities that small businesses face, the impact of cyber incidents beyond technical issues, and the necessity of effective communication and leadership during recovery. The discussion also covers the role of technology, particularly AI, in enhancing cybersecurity measures, best practices for small businesses, and the cultural aspects that influence cybersecurity awareness. Sierra concludes with advice for small business owners regarding their vulnerability to cyber threats and the importance of proactive measures. Resources Warhorse Cyber website: https://warhorsecyber.us/ Takeaways Warhorse Cyber focuses on making cybersecurity accessible for small businesses.Small businesses often underestimate their vulnerability to cyber attacks.The financial impact of a cyber incident can be devastating, averaging $250,000 in recovery costs.Effective communication is crucial during a cyber incident recovery process.AI can enhance cybersecurity efforts but should not replace human judgment.Training and education are essential for building a strong cybersecurity culture.Small businesses are often seen as less vulnerable, which is a misconception.Multi-factor authentication is a critical security measure for all businesses.Cultural attitudes towards cybersecurity can affect an organization's risk level.Proactive measures are necessary for small businesses to defend against cyber threats. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and Warhorse Cyber 02:25 Understanding Cyber Incident Costs and Risks 04:43 The Impact of Cyber Incidents on Small Businesses 07:05 Communication and Leadership in Cyber Recovery 09:35 Leveraging Technology: AI and Automation in Cybersecurity 10:04 Best Practices for Small Businesses in Cybersecurity 12:45 Cultural Impact on Cybersecurity Awareness 14:36 Bad Actors and AI 15:09 Misconceptions and Advice for Small Businesses 19:02 Conclusion and Future of Cybersecurity About Our Founding Sponsor, Elastio  This podcast is proudly presented by Elastio, the control point for cyber resiliency—because survival depends on clean recoveries. As our Founding Sponsor, Elastio continuously validates backups, bridging the gap between security tools and immutable storage. With AI-driven detection and zero-day recovery, Elastio ensures data is clean, uncompromised, and always recoverable. Learn more: www.elastio.com

    22 min

  3. JAN 26

    Episode 21 - Inside Scam Compounds: Forced Labor & Global Cybercrime with Cezary Podkul

    In this episode, Cezary Podkul, an award-winning investigative journalist, discusses his journey into journalism, his transition to cybercrime reporting, and the alarming rise of scams such as unemployment insurance fraud and pig butchering scams. He shares insights into the complexities of human trafficking within cybercrime compounds and the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating these issues. Cezary emphasizes the importance of awareness and international pressure in addressing cybercrime and reflects on the role of cryptocurrency in facilitating scams. He concludes with a sense of optimism for the future, highlighting the growing awareness and efforts to combat these crimes. Resources The Big Trace (Cezary Podkul’s upcoming book): https://www.thebigtrace.com/Newsletter (updates from Cezary): https://buttondown.com/Cezary Takeaways Cezary transitioned from finance to journalism after the 2008 financial crisis.He became interested in cybercrime while reporting on unemployment insurance fraud during the pandemic.Telegram forums played a significant role in facilitating unemployment fraud.The pig butchering scam is a highly successful fraud tactic that has evolved over time.Human trafficking is a critical issue linked to cybercrime compounds in Southeast Asia.Governments often prioritize optics over effective action against cybercrime.Cryptocurrency has become a major medium for facilitating scams.The adoption of new technologies by cybercriminals is rapid and ongoing.International pressure is essential for governments to take real action against cybercrime.Awareness of cybercrime tactics has significantly increased since 2021.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cezary Podkul and His Journey 03:30 Transition to Cybercrime Reporting 05:15 Unemployment Insurance Fraud During the Pandemic 08:42 The Rise of Identity Theft and Data Breaches 12:28 The Global Landscape of Cybercrime 15:19 Human Trafficking and Cyber Fraud 19:36 The Scale and Infrastructure of Cybercrime 21:59 Collusion and Local Government Involvement 23:19 The Global Expansion of Cybercrime 25:47 The Illusion of Government Action 28:19 The Aftermath of KK Park’s Closure 30:36 The Golden Triangle’s Criminal Landscape 32:56 The Resilience of Pig Butchering Scams 37:42 The Need for International Cooperation 43:14 The Role of Technology in Cybercrime 46:54 Cryptocurrency's Impact on Scams 48:10 Optimism for the Future 49:36 The Big Trace: A New Perspective on Fraud About Our Founding Sponsor, Elastio  This podcast is proudly presented by Elastio, the control point for cyber resiliency—because survival depends on clean recoveries. As our Founding Sponsor, Elastio continuously validates backups, bridging the gap between security tools and immutable storage. With AI-driven detection and zero-day recovery, Elastio ensures data is clean, uncompromised, and always recoverable. Learn more: www.elastio.com

    53 min

  4. JAN 19

    Episode 20 - Dumpster Fire Fraud: BEC, Pig Butchering & the Human Cost with Ronnie Tokazowski

    In this episode of Detonation Point presented by Elastio, host Matt O’Neill welcomes Ronnie Tokazowski, a leading expert in combating business email compromise (BEC) and other cybercrimes. They delve into the evolution of BEC from its early days in 2015 to its peak as the number one cybercrime, responsible for billions in losses annually. Ronnie shares his frustrations with the lack of attention from federal agencies like the FBI, despite the significant impact of BEC on individuals and businesses. He highlights the emotional toll on victims, who often feel shame and embarrassment after being scammed, and discusses the need for law enforcement to adopt a more empathetic approach when dealing with victims of financial crimes. The conversation also explores the dark underbelly of scams, including the disturbing connections between BEC, romance scams, and human trafficking. Ronnie explains the phenomenon of 'pig butchering' scams, where victims are lured into fraudulent investment schemes, often leading to devastating financial and emotional consequences. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological impact on victims and the need for better training for law enforcement to handle these sensitive cases. The episode concludes with insights into Ronnie's work at Rexxfield and his commitment to educating others about scams and victim support. Resources (Discount Code) Ronnie’s Anti-Scam Education course: https://www.antiscam.education/courses Use code DETP20 for a discount. Takeaways Business email compromise was a 'dumpster fire' of a hot mess.Victims often feel shame and embarrassment after being scammed.The emotional toll on victims can be as severe as trauma from violent crimes.Pig butchering scams are a growing concern, often linked to organized crime.Law enforcement needs better training to handle the emotional aspects of financial crimes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ronnie Tokazowski and BEC 01:35 The Landscape of Business Email Compromise 04:36 Frustrations with Law Enforcement's Response 07:09 The Human Cost of Scams 16:04 Challenges of International Money Flows 20:03 The Impact of Cryptocurrency on Cybercrime 25:23 Understanding Pig Butchering Scams 29:29 Understanding Victimization in Financial Crimes 33:14 The Rise of Crypto Scams and Their Impact 36:31 The Role of Social Media in Scams 37:59 Accountability of Platforms Like Meta 43:37 The Emotional Toll on Victims 55:16 Rexxfield's Mission and Resources for Victims About Our Founding Sponsor, Elastio  This podcast is proudly presented by Elastio, the control point for cyber resiliency—because survival depends on clean recoveries. As our Founding Sponsor, Elastio continuously validates backups, bridging the gap between security tools and immutable storage. With AI-driven detection and zero-day recovery, Elastio ensures data is clean, uncompromised, and always recoverable. Learn more: www.elastio.com

    1h 1m

  5. JAN 14 · BONUS

    Ep 19 - Bonus Episode: Unveiling Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Program Fraud with Mike Olson

    In this episode of Detonation Point presented by Elastio, Matt O'Neill interviews Mike Olson, a former Secret Service agent with extensive experience in fraud investigations. They discuss the evolution of programmatic fraud, particularly in Minnesota, and the role of organized crime within various communities, including the Somali community. Olson shares his frustrations with the lack of action from state authorities and highlights the victims of such fraud, emphasizing the need for accountability and a national strategy to combat these issues. The conversation also touches on the importance of the investigative mission of the Secret Service and the legacy of Rodney Wellman, a dear friend and respected figure in the agency. Takeaways Programmatic fraud has been a significant issue since 2017.Organized crime is deeply involved in fraud schemes.The Somali community in Minnesota is interconnected with organized crime.Taxpayers are the primary victims of programmatic fraud.Fraud losses in Minnesota are estimated in the billions.There is a need for a national strategy to combat fraud.The Secret Service has a unique capability in fraud investigations.Collaboration between agencies is crucial for effective fraud investigation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mike Olson's Background 02:02 Understanding Programmatic Fraud 05:08 The Role of Organized Crime in Fraud 06:08 The Somali Community and Fraud Dynamics 10:26 Investigating Fraud: The Hierarchical Structure 14:03 Frustrations with Law Enforcement and Prosecution 18:10 Victims of Programmatic Fraud 19:26 The Scale of Fraud in Minnesota 22:50 Challenges in Addressing Fraud 28:28 Forfeiture Actions and Legal Challenges 30:42 Reflections on Retirement and Missed Opportunities 31:45 The National Scope of Fraud and Organized Crime 33:34 The Secret Service's Unique Role in Fraud Investigations 34:58 The Importance of Investigative Missions 37:59 The Interconnectedness of Crime and Fraud 40:27 The Need for a National Strategy on Fraud 41:24 The Overlap of Criminal Activities 44:36 Honoring Rodney Wellman and Agency Camaraderie About Our Founding Sponsor, Elastio  This podcast is proudly presented by Elastio, the control point for cyber resiliency—because survival depends on clean recoveries. As our Founding Sponsor, Elastio continuously validates backups, bridging the gap between security tools and immutable storage. With AI-driven detection and zero-day recovery, Elastio ensures data is clean, uncompromised, and always recoverable. Learn more: www.elastio.com

    54 min

  6. JAN 12

    Episode 18 - Finding Your Voice After Fraud: Ayleen Charlotte on Power & Prevention

    In this episode of Detonation Point presented by Elastio, Ayleen Charlotte shares her powerful journey from being a victim of a sophisticated romance scam to becoming a leading advocate for fraud awareness and prevention. She discusses her experience featured in the Netflix documentary The Tinder Swindler, the psychological manipulation involved in scams, and the importance of education and support for victims. Ayleen emphasizes the need for stronger sentencing for fraudsters and the role of social media in raising awareness. She also introduces her initiatives in fraud education and her new wine label, showcasing her resilience and commitment to helping others. Takeaways Ayleen Charlotte transformed her painful experience into a purpose-driven advocacy for fraud awareness.Netflix’s The Tinder Swindler documentary highlighted the psychological manipulation involved in romance scams.Victims often feel ashamed and isolated, but sharing their stories can lead to support and recovery.Stronger sentencing for fraudsters is crucial to prevent further victimization and to treat fraud as a serious crime.Education on fraud prevention techniques is essential for empowering potential victims.Social media can be a double-edged sword in fraud awareness; it can help spread the message but also perpetuate misinformation.Ayleen’s SAFE method (Stop, Ask, Feel, Engage) provides a practical framework for individuals to protect themselves from scams.The emotional and psychological impact of fraud can lead to long-term trauma for victims.Ayleen’s work with organizations and the United Nations aims to implement fraud education in schools and communities.Resilience and empowerment are key themes in Ayleen’s journey, inspiring others to reclaim their agency. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ayleen Charlotte and Her Story 10:59 The Journey of Recovery and Empowerment 18:09 The Impact of Sentencing on Victims 24:36 Social Media's Role in Fraud Awareness 25:20 The Role of Social Media in Scam Awareness 26:25 Creating Awareness Through Storytelling 27:44 Educational Initiatives Against Fraud 29:07 Ayleen's Wine Venture: A Personal Passion 30:55 The Impact of AI on Fraud 33:15 The SAFE Method: A Framework for Protection 39:56 Empowerment Through Awareness and Communication 42:48 A Message to Victims: Speak Up and Seek Help About Our Founding Sponsor, Elastio  This podcast is proudly presented by Elastio, the control point for cyber resiliency—because survival depends on clean recoveries. As our Founding Sponsor, Elastio continuously validates backups, bridging the gap between security tools and immutable storage. With AI-driven detection and zero-day recovery, Elastio ensures data is clean, uncompromised, and always recoverable. Learn more: www.elastio.com

    46 min

  7. JAN 5

    Episode 17 - From Newsroom to Federal Law Enforcement: Michelle Ball's Journey

    In this episode of Detonation Point presented by Elastio, host Matt O’Neill interviews Michelle Ball, a unique figure in federal law enforcement with a background in broadcast journalism. They discuss her journey from journalism to crime reporting, the challenges of small-town journalism, and her transition into federal law enforcement. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on political discourse, the challenges faced by modern journalism, and the dynamics of press conferences in law enforcement. Michelle shares insights on the importance of diversity in law enforcement and the evolving landscape of media relations. Takeaways Michelle Ball transitioned from journalism to crime reporting.Small-town journalism presents unique challenges and opportunities.Diversity in law enforcement backgrounds enriches the field.The internet has transformed how information is disseminated.The race to be first in journalism often compromises accuracy.Social media plays a significant role in shaping political discourse.Press conferences can put law enforcement in difficult positions.Journalists must adapt to the fast-paced news environment.Engaging with the media requires training and preparation.The importance of critical thinking in consuming news is paramount. Chapters 00:00 From Journalism to Law Enforcement: A Unique Journey 11:56 Transitioning to Federal Law Enforcement: Unexpected Opportunities 15:15 Diversity in Law Enforcement Backgrounds 23:33 The Thrill of Working Cases: A New Passion 24:57 Memorable Cases: A Case Study in Espionage  31:50 Foreign Influence in American Elections 38:04 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions 48:23 Challenges in Law Enforcement Communication About Our Founding Sponsor, Elastio  This podcast is proudly presented by Elastio, the control point for cyber resiliency—because survival depends on clean recoveries. As our Founding Sponsor, Elastio continuously validates backups, bridging the gap between security tools and immutable storage. With AI-driven detection and zero-day recovery, Elastio ensures data is clean, uncompromised, and always recoverable. Learn more: www.elastio.com

    52 min

  8. 12/29/2025

    Episode 16 - Cybersecurity Trends: 2025 in Review and Predictions for 2026 with Jason Shafferman

    In this conversation, Matt O’Neill and Jason Shafferman discuss the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, focusing on trends from 2025 and predictions for 2026. They explore the growing importance of supply chain management, the shift in attack vectors towards identity risks, and the ongoing threat of ransomware. The discussion also highlights the challenges of identity and access management, the role of backups in resilience, and the risks associated with third-party dependencies. Looking ahead, they consider the implications of AI and quantum computing on cybersecurity. The conversation wraps up on a lighter note, with Matt and Jason sharing their perspectives on the NFL season, offering predictions on playoff contenders and standout teams. Takeaways Supply chain management has gained visibility post-COVID.Identity risks have become a major concern for organizations.Ransomware continues to be a significant threat.Compromised credentials are a common issue on the dark web.Organizations need to focus on backup strategies for recovery.Third-party dependencies pose risks to cybersecurity.AI will introduce new attack surfaces.The market for identity management lacks a clear leader.Ransomware monetization has shifted due to insurance coverage.The future of cybersecurity will be shaped by emerging technologies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Trends 02:52 The Evolution of Supply Chain Management 03:36 Shifts in Cyber Attack Vectors 07:46 Ransomware: Current Trends and Future Predictions 10:01 Identity and Access Management Challenges 12:44 The Role of Backups in Ransomware Recovery 15:08 Third-Party Risks and Cloud Dependencies 21:36 Emerging Threats: AI and Quantum Computing 24:24 Sports Predictions and Closing Thoughts About Our Founding Sponsor, Elastio  This podcast is proudly presented by Elastio, the control point for cyber resiliency—because survival depends on clean recoveries. As our Founding Sponsor, Elastio continuously validates backups, bridging the gap between security tools and immutable storage. With AI-driven detection and zero-day recovery, Elastio ensures data is clean, uncompromised, and always recoverable. Learn more: www.elastio.com

    28 min
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5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Hosted by Matt O'Neill, retired U.S. Secret Service Special Agent Detonation Point is where powerful conversations spark. Each episode brings you into the room with fascinating guests as they share their stories, dive into cutting-edge technology, and tackle the challenges of fighting crime in the 21st century. Along the way, expect insider insights from a career spent protecting leaders and confronting threats, plus a few detours into Philadelphia Eagles football. Go Birds. 🦅

Information

  • Creator
    Matt O'Neill
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Matt O'Neill