dnsUNFILTERED

DNSFilter

The dnsUNFILTERED podcast series is fun and insightful, hosted by Mikey Pruitt, Partner Evangelist at DNSFilter, where he chats with top cybersecurity experts and tech industry leaders. Each episode is packed with stories and tips that make the complicated world of cybersecurity, tech, plus sales & marketing easier to understand. Whether you're a pro looking to stay sharp or just curious about how to keep your online world sane, dnsUNFILTERED is your go-to podcast for all things tech.

  1. 5D AGO

    46: Cyber Culture in Schools, Stephen Epting

    STUDENTS AND TEACHERS ARE VULNERABLE TIME TO SHIELD THEM! Learn how to build a cyber‑safe school before the next attack hits.Mikey Pruitt sits down with Stephen Epting, a former law‑enforcement officer turned education cybersecurity champion. Together they unpack the rising threat of phishing, the budget crunch that hampers school defenses, and how AI can both help and hurt digital learning. Stephen shares real‑world tactics for teaching kids and staff the fundamentals of online safety, and offers a roadmap for a culture where every student and teacher feels empowered to spot danger. The conversation covers budgeting, remote‑learning challenges, and the future of cyber protection in schools all through the lens of practical, hands‑on experience.- Law‑enforcement skills give a solid foundation for cyber‑security work.- Documentation from investigations is key to tracking and responding to threats.- Schools must meet the tech savvy of students with equally clever defenses.- Student‑led digital safety teams help sustain awareness at all levels.- AI tools offer powerful training and phishing‑detection but require careful oversight.Subscribe, drop a comment, and share this episode so every classroom can stay safe. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and Law Enforcement Background02:47 Transitioning from Law Enforcement to Education05:27 Cybersecurity in Schools: Protecting Students and Staff08:09 Budgeting for Cybersecurity in Education10:41 Teaching Digital Safety to Students13:19 The Role of Students in Cybersecurity16:06 Phishing Campaigns Targeting Students18:43 Challenges of Remote Learning in Cybersecurity20:46 Conclusion and Future of Cybersecurity in Education21:35 Navigating Proxy Sites and Network Security24:19 Balancing Security and Convenience in Education26:52 The Role of AI in Education28:45 Cybersecurity Awareness and Training for Educators30:36 Incident Response in Educational Settings32:04 Trends in Cybersecurity Threats in Education34:45 The Impact of AI on Critical Thinking37:38 Staying Informed in Cybersecurity

    45 min

  2. JAN 19

    45: Obsession to Learn, David Huynh

    Ever wondered how a broke kid turned into a cybersecurity rockstar? One guy’s relentless obsession and killer project showcase changed everything. David Huynh shares the true story behind his rise in cybersecurity starting at 26 and fueled by financial stability, passion, and a drive for personal development. In this episode we cover the full career path: from earning certifications to mastering day‑to‑day SOC analyst duties, and how to communicate the value of cyber defenses to managers. We also dive into today’s biggest threats, including AI‑driven attacks, and why continuous upskilling is essential in a world of skills inflation. - Overcome financial doubts with a clear career strategy that balances money and passion. - Use certifications as stepping stones, but let hands‑on projects do the heavy lifting for your resume. - Master alert triage, incident response, and SOC communication skills that set you apart in every interview. - Stay ahead of social engineering and AI threats by continuously learning and adapting. - Build a personal brand through project showcase and measurable metrics that prove ROI to leadership. Loved the episode? Hit subscribe, drop a comment with your own cybersecurity journey, and share with anyone ready to level up! Chapters00:00 Introduction to David Huynh and Cybersecurity Journey02:46 Motivation and Passion in Cybersecurity04:36 The Balance of Financial Stability and Passion06:55 Discipline and Obsession in Learning09:21 Key Lessons for Breaking into Cybersecurity10:33 The Role of Certifications in Cybersecurity13:20 Showcasing Skills Through Projects16:17 Day-to-Day Life as a SOC Analyst22:58 Differences Between SOC Analysts and Security Engineers24:53 Communicating Cybersecurity Needs to Management27:37 The Importance of Metrics and Dashboards29:12 Current Threat Landscape and AI Risks30:53 The Evolution of Cybersecurity Skills36:44 Navigating Career Growth in Cybersecurity42:35 The Necessity of Continuous Learning and Upskilling47:42 Motivation and Personal Development in Cybersecurity

    55 min

  3. JAN 5

    44: Not All Revenue is Good Revenue, Jason Slagle

    Unlock the secrets of turning cybersecurity chaos into profit Mikey Pruitt sits down with Jason Slagle to show you how MSPs can thrive in a fast‑moving digital world.In episode 44 of dnsUNFILTERED, Jason shares his journey from DIY AI hacks to building robust DNS filtering solutions. Together they tackle why giving back matters, how knowledge gaps cripple MSPs, and what it really takes to stay ahead of cyber threats. Learn real‑world tactics, vendor‑relationship wins, and the future of AI‑powered workflows all delivered with a fresh, honest tone.Key Takeaways - Giving back builds lasting MSP legacies. - Cybersecurity gaps cost more than you think. - Breadth of knowledge beats deep expertise in a rapidly shifting tech landscape. - AI can automate boring paperwork and spot security blind spots. - Authentic online presence boosts credibility and influence.👉 Subscribe for more MSP wisdom, drop a comment with your biggest challenge, and share this episode with your network! Chapters00:00 The Importance of Giving Back in the MSP Community02:25 Identifying Gaps in MSP Knowledge06:39 The Evolution of MSPs and Their Challenges11:05 The Balance of Breadth vs. Depth in Skills13:13 Cybersecurity: The Third Wheel of MSPs17:43 Strategies for Effective Cybersecurity19:48 The Journey of DNS Filtering and Vendor Relationships22:41 AI and Its Impact on MSPs23:51 Exploring Vibcoding and Its Challenges29:06 The Evolution of AI in Development37:04 AI's Role in Enhancing Human Workflows39:07 Authenticity and Influence in Online Presence42:38 Future Directions for MSPs and Personal Growth

    48 min

  4. 12/22/2025

    43: Intelligence Drives Operations, Ryan Rambo

    Think espionage is only for spies? Think again learn how counterintelligence is reshaping corporate security. Mikey Pruitt sits down with former Army intel pro Ryan Rambo to explore the hidden world of counterintelligence. Together they break down why corporate security teams need to treat insider threats like real espionage missions, and how tools like 351X software can cut through the noise. Ryan shares stories from the battlefield and how those lessons translate to protecting sensitive data and building a culture of employee reporting. Whether you’re a security exec or an entrepreneur, this episode gives you clear, actionable steps to boost your organization’s intelligence operations. - Counterintelligence stops espionage before it hits your business. - Insider threats come from hidden motives financial, ideological, or just ego. - A military mindset adds rigor to corporate security programs. - Employee reporting is the frontline filter against silent saboteurs. - 351X software turns data clues into decisive counterintelligence actions. If you found this eye‑opening, hit subscribe, drop a comment, and share!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Counterintelligence and Espionage01:52 Understanding Counterintelligence in Business04:09 The Role of Espionage and Insider Threats07:16 Ryan Rambo's Military Career and Transition to Corporate11:02 Interactions with Prisoners and Recruitment13:44 Counterintelligence in Corporate vs. Government17:13 Personality Traits of Insider Threats19:31 The Importance of Data Classification and Cybersecurity22:02 Understanding Security Frameworks and Their Limitations24:40 The Importance of Intelligence in Security Operations26:01 Introducing 351X: A New Approach to Counterintelligence29:46 The Role of Employee Reporting in Security34:28 The Need for Collaboration Between Cybersecurity and Counterintelligence40:38 Counterintelligence in Corporate America: A Growing Necessity44:43 Practical Steps for Businesses to Enhance Counterintelligence

    50 min

  5. 12/08/2025

    42: Zero Trust is a Culture, Tiernan O'Malley

    Think Zero Trust is just another compliance checkbox? Think again. In episode 42 of dnsUNFILTERED, host Mikey Pruitt sits down with Tiernan O’Malley, Director of Client Services at Framework Security, to uncover the true power of a Zero Trust culture and the future of AI in cybersecurity. They dive into how visibility and a strong governance framework can turn risk management from a headache into a strategic advantage. If you’re worried about staying compliant while keeping pace with evolving threats, this episode shows you how security awareness training and leadership buy‑in actually protect the bottom line. Learn why AI isn’t just a buzzword, but a crucial tool in building a resilient security culture.Key takeaways - Zero Trust isn’t a checkbox it’s a mindset that starts with people, not policies. - Real visibility into systems equals sharper risk detection and faster response. - AI will be the engine behind future threat hunting, but it needs solid governance. - Interactive, frequent security training keeps teams alert without boring them. - When execs buy into training, it becomes a company‑wide shield. - A security‑first mindset turns risk assessments into smart financial decisions.Enjoying our deep dive? Hit subscribe, drop a comment below with your biggest Zero Trust questions, and share this episode with your network. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zero Trust and Cybersecurity02:38 Understanding Zero Trust Culture05:35 Navigating Compliance and Risk Management08:06 The Role of AI in Cybersecurity11:01 Governance Framework for AI13:35 Identifying AI Tools in Organizations16:02 Communicating Cybersecurity Risks to Executives18:48 The Importance of Security Awareness Training21:28 Scaling Client Services Effectively24:11 Future Trends in Cybersecurity

    34 min

  6. 11/24/2025

    41: Put Yourself Out There, Matt Solomon

    Ready to unlock the secrets that make MSPs win? Matt Solomon reveals insider tactics that turn vendors into partners. In episode 24 of dnsUNFILTERED, host Mikey Pruitt sits down with Matt Solomon, co‑founder of BetterTracker and the Channel Program, to explore how the MSP community is reshaping vendor relationships, marketing, and AI use. Matt shares real‑world lessons on building trust, boosting efficiency, and turning a reactive culture into a proactive powerhouse. Whether you’re new to MSPs or a seasoned pro, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies that drive results. - MSPs thrive on collaboration share knowledge to elevate the whole community. - The first 60 days of onboarding are pivotal for keeping new clients loyal. - Efficiency isn’t a buzzword it’s the secret sauce that keeps customers happy. - AI can boost service speed, but staying proactive stops security risks. - Build trust by putting yourself out there visibility equals revenue. Hit subscribe, drop a comment, and share if you found a strategy that could transform your MSP. Channel Program is thrilled to host Holidaze 2025, a fantastic winter giveaway event spanning 10 business days from December 1st - December 12th. Register now to be part of the first round of drawings on Dec 1st! https://info.channelprogram.com/holidaze?utm_campaign=L-O-CP-EV-Holidaze_2025-DNSFilter-1025&_hsmi=390373539 Chapters00:00 Introduction to Matt Solomon and His Ventures02:51 The Unique Nature of the MSP Community05:31 Vendor Strategies in the MSP Space08:19 The Evolution of Channel Program11:17 Sales Lessons for MSPs13:54 Balancing Urgency and Importance in MSP Marketing16:48 Focusing on Business Outcomes for Success23:44 Harnessing AI for Development and Efficiency27:13 The Future of AI in MSPs31:08 Navigating AI Security Risks32:14 Shifting from Reactive to Proactive MSP Culture36:38 Maximizing Efficiency with BetterTracker39:06 The Role of Efficiency in MSP Success40:37 Future Endeavors and Innovations

    46 min

  7. 11/10/2025

    40: It's the Community, Kevin Dutkiewicz

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    49 min

  8. 10/27/2025

    39: Engineering the Socials, Edna Jonsson

    Get ready to uncover the mind behind the shield Edna Jonsson shows how curiosity, community, and Capture the Flag shape a cyber career. Edna Jonsson, a veteran cyber‑defender, shares her journey from sock analysis to mentoring bright minds. We dive into Capture the Flag competitions, the latest emerging threats, and why privacy and social engineering are hotter topics than ever. Mikey Pruitt pulls back the curtain on how community support and hands‑on learning turn novices into experts plus a peek into her secret tricks for staying balanced and mentally healthy. - Community is the engine that keeps you motivated and safe in cyberspace. - Curiosity turns every mystery into a learning moment. - Capture the Flag contests make learning fun and realistic. - Hands‑on practice is the fastest way to join the cyber world. - Mentoring solidifies your knowledge and expands the field. If you found this episode inspiring, hit subscribe, drop a comment, and share with a friend.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Edna Jonsson and Cybersecurity Journey02:47 Challenges and Triumphs in Capture the Flag Competitions05:24 Getting Started with CTFs and Learning Pathways07:56 The Role of Community in Cybersecurity10:37 Emerging Threats in Cybersecurity13:22 Social Engineering and Its Impact16:03 Innovative Approaches to Training and Challenges18:42 Community Engagement and Networking21:12 Privacy Concerns and Practical Tips23:50 AI in Cybersecurity and Future Trends26:36 Managing Burnout and Finding Balance

    33 min
See All (46)

Ratings & Reviews

3
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The dnsUNFILTERED podcast series is fun and insightful, hosted by Mikey Pruitt, Partner Evangelist at DNSFilter, where he chats with top cybersecurity experts and tech industry leaders. Each episode is packed with stories and tips that make the complicated world of cybersecurity, tech, plus sales & marketing easier to understand. Whether you're a pro looking to stay sharp or just curious about how to keep your online world sane, dnsUNFILTERED is your go-to podcast for all things tech.

Information

  • Creator
    DNSFilter
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © DNSFilter
  • Show Website
    dnsUNFILTERED