Off the Wire: A Play by Play on Cybersecurity and Technology Issues

Anthony Kent & Tanner Greer
  • 5.0 (16)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

A bi-weekly podcast that helps you curb cybersecurity risk and tackle technology challenges

  1. 1D AGO

    Cut IT Spending Without Sacrificing Security or Performance

    Cost-Saving Strategies for IT: Reports vs Alerts & Beyond | Off the Wire Podcast In this episode of Off the Wire Podcast, we dive deep into effective cost-saving strategies for IT departments. We discuss the pros and cons of reports versus alerts, the rising costs of technology, and how to make every dollar count. We also share insights on consolidating tools and platforms, justifying hardware and software expenses, and leveraging AI to maximize efficiency. Join us as we explore practical tips to help you save money and optimize resources amidst an environment of increasing costs. Don't miss our real-world examples and actionable advice to streamline your IT operations! 00:00 Introduction Hook: Reports vs Alerts 00:51 Welcome to Off the Wire Podcast 01:07 Rising Costs in Technology 02:14 Cost-Saving Strategies 09:19 Vendor Relationships and Consolidation 11:41 Tool and Platform Consolidation 22:27 Open Source Solutions: Pros and Cons 23:32 The Downside of Open Source Systems 24:28 AI: A Different Paradigm 25:57 Optimizing Hardware Costs 27:16 Support and Warranties: Are They Worth It? 32:34 Vendor Negotiations and Cost Savings 35:53 Auditing and Automating for Efficiency 44:32 Engaging Employees for Cost-Saving Ideas 46:08 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

    47 min

  2. JAN 26

    Preparing for the Storm: Effective Risk Management & Crisis Planning

    Preparing for the Storm: Effective Risk Management & Crisis Planning In this episode of 'Off the Wire,' join Hosts Anthony and Tanner as they discuss the essential strategies for preparing for impending storms, particularly how to handle weather-related crises, with a focus on risk management and maintaining efficiency. Topics covered include the importance of having a storm prep checklist, the necessity of contingency plans, the balance of mitigating risks while maintaining operational flexibility, and the crucial role of effective communication and leadership during a crisis. Listen in for invaluable insights on how to ensure the safety of personnel and continuous operation of essential services during critical events. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:11 Storm Preparation Mindset 01:02 High-Level Storm Preparation Process 01:20 Detailed Preparation Steps 03:20 Importance of Checklists and Risk Assessment 05:37 Technology and Field Operations 08:38 Internet Connectivity During Storms 12:02 Managing Personnel During Crises 19:17 Flexibility and Adjustments During Crises 25:23 Final Thoughts and Tips 29:35 Closing Remarks

    31 min

  3. JAN 12

    Effective Communication: Key Tips for IT and End Users

    Effective Communication: Key Tips for IT and End Users In this episode of Off The Wire, we dive into the challenges and solutions for effective communication between IT professionals and end users. Through realistic role-playing scenarios, we highlight common issues and frustrations faced when trying to extract necessary details for troubleshooting. Our hosts share actionable advice for both IT personnel and non-IT staff on how to provide clear, specific information, making the problem-solving process more efficient. Tune in to learn useful tips that can improve workflow and response times in your organization. 00:00 Introduction and Initial Problem 00:15 Understanding the Issue 00:47 Challenges in IT Communication 01:52 Effective Communication Strategies 04:26 Generational Differences in IT 06:12 Importance of Detailed Information 09:03 Ticketing Systems and Prioritization 17:33 Role-Playing Scenarios 20:10 Common IT Issues and Solutions 24:01 Final Thoughts and Communication Tips 30:48 Conclusion and Call to Action

    31 min

  4. 12/29/2025

    Backups, Zero Trust, Mental Health: 5 Changes We Made For Real

    Off The Wire: Reflecting on Cybersecurity and Organizational Implementations In this episode of 'Off The Wire,' hosts Anthony and Tanner reflect on past episodes and discuss the various strategies and innovations they've implemented at their organization. They cover key topics such as cybersecurity, asset management, backup testing, employee mental health, and training methods. The episode dives into specific episodes like 'Low-Cost, High-Impact Cybersecurity Investments,' 'Zero Trust,' and 'Talent Tetris,' providing insights on how they've taken their learnings to enhance their company's safety, efficiency, and employee satisfaction. Join them as they share practical advice, valuable lessons, and their goals for future implementations. 00:00 Introduction and Reflection 01:12 Implementing Crown Jewels Concept 02:12 Zero Trust Network Implementation 03:17 CIS Benchmarks and Hardening Systems 05:20 Talent Tetris: Building the Perfect Team 07:38 Communicating with Leadership 09:52 Remote Access Solutions 13:55 Low Cost, High Impact Cybersecurity Investments 16:50 Backup Testing and Cloud Recovery 19:30 Breaking Up With One and Done Training 22:28 Employee Mental Health and Leadership 27:14 Bonus: Future Implementations 31:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    34 min

  5. 12/15/2025

    Top 5 Reasons Why Software Projects Fail and How to Avoid Them

    Top 5 Reasons Why Software Projects Fail and How to Avoid Them | Off the Wire Podcast In this episode of Off the Wire, hosts Tanner and Anthony dive into the top reasons why software projects fail and share practical tips on how to avoid these common pitfalls. They discuss a range of crucial points, including the importance of keeping solutions simple, building strong user rapport, effective communication strategies, comprehensive training, and the value of user input. If you're in the midst of rolling out a new technology project or planning one for the future, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help ensure your project's success. Tune in as they share personal anecdotes, industry best practices, and engage in a thoughtful discussion aimed at improving your project management skills. 00:00 Welcome and Year-End Reflections 00:31 Holiday Chaos and Project Planning 01:20 The Importance of Year-End Reviews 02:10 Discussing Project Failures 02:51 Impact of Failed Projects on Teams 03:29 Balancing Risk and Simplicity in Projects 03:39 Real-Life Example of Project Impact 05:42 Top Five Reasons Projects Fail 06:26 Complicated Solutions and the KISS Method 08:24 Building Rapport and Empathy with Users 10:35 The Final 5%: Completing Projects Fully 13:57 Effective Communication Strategies 17:23 Training and Vendor Reliance 19:27 Quick Response to Issues and Drip Campaigns 21:05 Gathering Feedback and Following Up 21:46 Appreciation and Podcast Growth 23:05 Weak Testing and QA Issues 26:16 Challenges of Rapid Change 29:16 Importance of User Input 32:10 Effective Training Strategies 38:20 Final Thoughts and Community Support

    40 min

  6. 12/01/2025

    Marketing IT: Making Your Departments Value Known

    Marketing IT: Making Your Department's Value Known In this episode, Tanner and Anthony discuss the challenges IT departments face in communicating their value within an organization. They explore methods for showcasing daily work and major projects to both employees and senior leadership. Key topics include effective internal marketing, handling visibility problems, and balancing technology wins with transparency about challenges. The episode also features a fun game where the hosts put each other on the spot to come up with marketing strategies for various IT scenarios. Whether you're struggling with perception issues or looking to improve your communication strategy, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips. 00:00 Understanding the Importance of Communication in IT 00:48 Common Misconceptions About IT Roles 02:43 The Visibility Problem in IT Departments 03:36 The Impact of Improved IT Systems 05:21 The Role of Security Tools in IT 06:36 The Challenge of IT Perception 10:30 The Importance of Framing Communication 17:30 Sharing Technology Wins and Success Stories 23:25 Celebrating Security Wins 24:18 Importance of Employee Testimonials 26:07 Branding IT Solutions 28:18 Communicating IT's Value to Leadership 30:08 Transparency in IT Struggles 31:26 Effective Metrics and Reporting 33:34 Marketing IT Initiatives 38:10 Interactive Marketing Exercise 45:19 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

    48 min

  7. 11/17/2025

    Tech, Trust, and Teamwork: Lessons from a Local Government Leader

    Empowering Communities: The Impact of Excellent Local Government Leadership Join us in this episode of Off the Wire as we interview Glenn Hasteadt, a retired IT director and longtime leader in local government. Glenn shares his insights on the importance of great government leadership, the impact technology has on communities, and the lessons he's learned throughout his career. From managing emergency services during Hurricane Florence to fostering a supportive and dynamic work culture, this conversation explores the numerous ways local government can uplift communities, states, and even the nation. Tune in to discover how intentional leadership and empathy can make a real difference in public service. 00:00 The Power of Great Local Government 00:50 Introducing Glenn Hasteadt 01:39 Debunking Myths About Local Government 04:34 Handling Crises and Team Dynamics 08:42 Building a Strong Team Culture 12:40 Leadership Lessons and Personal Growth 15:18 Communication in Crisis Situations 23:13 Resourcefulness in Local Government 25:35 The Impact of Local Government IT 30:47 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    35 min

  8. 11/03/2025

    If Attackers Built Your Security Plan

    Welcome back to the Off the Wire Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of cybersecurity from an offensive standpoint. We sit down with Slade, the President of Contextual Security Solutions, to uncover what truly works in defending against real attack methods. Slade shares captivating stories and practical insights on penetration testing tools, the effectiveness of current security solutions, and the importance of visibility in cybersecurity. We discuss everything from the impact of technical configuration and tuning to the challenges of ransomware as a service. Learn how to communicate effectively with senior leadership, understand the significance of a dedicated cybersecurity budget, and get advice on the traits to look for when building a cybersecurity team. Real-world examples and fascinating anecdotes make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in enhancing their cybersecurity posture. Don't miss out on Slade's valuable knowledge and entertaining demonstrations that aim to increase awareness and security mindfulness. Get ready to take notes and share this insightful discussion with your peers! 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Podcast 00:23 Meet Slade: The Cybersecurity Expert 00:48 Slade's Attention-Grabbing Demos 05:30 Memorable Pen Testing Stories 08:51 Challenges in Cybersecurity 11:49 Small IT Departments and Security 16:12 Effective Security Measures 24:41 Business and Technical Perspectives 29:41 The Importance of Measurement and Incentives 31:05 Emerging Technologies and AI Challenges 33:24 Cybersecurity Threats and Preparedness 43:56 Soft Skills and Career Advice 46:55 Technical Skills and Budgeting in Cybersecurity 49:05 Reflections and Personal Growth 53:59 Future Topics and Final Thoughts

    1h 1m
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A bi-weekly podcast that helps you curb cybersecurity risk and tackle technology challenges

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