PrOTect It All

Aaron Crow
  • 5.0 (7)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

PrOTect IT All is a weekly cybersecurity podcast covering the full spectrum. IT, OT, cloud, AI, IoT, and everything in between. Host Aaron Crow sits down with practitioners, leaders, and builders for real conversations about people, process, and technology. From securing power plants and manufacturing floors to navigating enterprise risk and emerging threats, this show is about how we actually protect the things that matter. No product pitches. No hype. Just the people doing the work, sharing what they've learned.

  1. 2D AGO

    AI, Cybersecurity & Career Growth: Why Curiosity Matters More Than Credentials

    The future of cybersecurity belongs to people who can adapt - not just those with the longest list of certifications. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Peter Schawacker for a candid conversation about the evolving intersection of AI, cybersecurity, talent, and career growth. With nearly 30 years of experience in cybersecurity and technology leadership, Peter shares real-world insights on what organizations are getting wrong about hiring, why curiosity often matters more than credentials, and how AI is reshaping both technical work and the future of security teams. Together, Aaron and Peter unpack the changing role of CISOs, the dangers of checkbox-driven hiring, and why nontraditional talent may hold the key to solving the industry’s growing skills gap. You’ll learn: Why soft skills and curiosity are becoming critical cybersecurity assets How AI is transforming cybersecurity recruiting and technical roles The growing challenges around technical debt and workforce readiness Why traditional credentials don’t always predict success How CISOs and leaders should think differently about talent and culture Practical career advice for cybersecurity professionals navigating rapid change Whether you’re building a cyber team, hiring talent, or planning your next career move, this episode delivers honest insights into what it really takes to thrive in the AI-driven future of cybersecurity. Tune in to learn why adaptability, curiosity, and human ingenuity still matter most - only on Protect It All.. Key Moments:  04:08 The role of security in business 09:24 Managing Aramis online security 11:22 Hiring mindset for troubleshooting skills 13:55 Evaluating AI talent challenges 16:26 Discussing vulnerabilities in software 22:24 Early days of hacking and tech 25:55 Realizing the power of soft skills 28:15 Browsing eclectic book collections 32:13 Recent grads and AI opportunities 33:24 Getting into cybersecurity careers 37:22 Unexpected paths into security careers 40:41 Importance of critical thinking 44:35 Explaining tech's evolution over time About the Guest : Peter Schawacker is the Founder & CEO of Nearshore Cyber and a cybersecurity executive with more than 25 years of experience across multiple industries. A former CISO in four sectors, Peter specializes in cyber risk, AI governance, and workforce development. He is the creator of ARAMIS Insight, an AI-powered cybersecurity workforce competency platform aligned to the NIST NICE framework, and author of Governing AI at the Edge: An Operating Model for Citizen Development in the Enterprise. How to connect Peter:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schawacker  Nearshore Cyber: https://nearshorecyber.com.mx | ARAMIS Insight: https://project-aramis.com/insight  Email: peter@nearshorecyber.com.mx Phone: +1 (760) 880-4258 Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Websit...

    53 min
  2. AI in OT Cybersecurity: Real-World Risks, Smarter Defenses & the Future of Critical Infrastructure

    MAY 18

    AI in OT Cybersecurity: Real-World Risks, Smarter Defenses & the Future of Critical Infrastructure

    AI is rapidly transforming cybersecurity but are critical infrastructure environments ready for what comes next? In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with longtime colleague and cybersecurity expert Clark Liu to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping both IT and OT security operations. From incident response and compliance frameworks to workforce shifts and operational resilience, Aaron and Clark unpack the real-world opportunities and very real risks of integrating AI into industrial environments. Together, they tackle the evolving role of frameworks like NERC CIP and NIST, the challenges of balancing compliance with actual security outcomes, and how organizations can responsibly adopt AI without increasing exposure. You’ll learn: How AI is changing OT and IT cybersecurity operations The role of AI in incident response, documentation, and monitoring Why compliance frameworks alone don’t guarantee resilience The risks of adopting AI without strong operational foundations How organizations can prepare for AI-powered threats and workforce changes Practical insights for balancing innovation, budgets, and security priorities Whether you’re leading OT security, managing critical infrastructure, or evaluating AI adoption in your organization, this episode delivers practical guidance for navigating cybersecurity’s next major shift. Tune in to learn how AI is transforming cyber defense and what organizations must do to stay resilient only on Protect It All. Key Moments;  05:33 Understanding cybersecurity compliance frameworks 07:11 Overlooked vulnerabilities in systems 09:59 Balancing multiple firewall vendors 15:17 Delegating tasks to AI 19:11 Importance of documenting commits 21:51 Hospital system shutdown crisis 25:11 AI uncovering software vulnerabilities 26:37 Engineers implementing AI in automation 31:26 AI tools and personal security 32:55 Password security practices 36:46 Using AI for basic tasks 39:38 Transition to off-the-shelf software 42:29 Going back to basics with appliances 47:02 Excitement About Future AI Capabilities Guest Profile :  Clark Liu is a veteran OT cybersecurity expert and one of the original contributors to the NERC CIP standards. With nearly two decades in energy and critical infrastructure security - including leadership roles at EY and GALLO - Clark specializes in OT risk management, compliance strategy, and securing industrial operations from the plant floor to the cloud. How to connect Clark:  LinkedIn :  https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkliu/ Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Website: https://protectitall.co/  X: https://twitter.com/protectitall  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrOTectITAll  FaceBook:  https://facebook.com/protectitallpodcast To be a guest or sugg...

    49 min
  3. AI Agents & Cybersecurity: Identity, Compliance, and the New Risks Facing IT and OT

    MAY 11

    AI Agents & Cybersecurity: Identity, Compliance, and the New Risks Facing IT and OT

    AI agents are changing cybersecurity faster than most organizations can adapt. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow welcomes back cybersecurity veteran Ken Foster for a deep dive into how AI is reshaping risk, identity, and resilience across IT and OT environments. With more than 30 years of experience spanning the Navy, manufacturing, fintech, government programs, and startups, Ken brings a grounded, real-world perspective on what organizations are getting right and dangerously wrong about AI adoption. Together, Aaron and Ken explore the growing challenges around AI agents, identity governance, shadow AI, compliance, and attribution in highly regulated industries. As AI tools become embedded into workflows and decision-making, organizations must rethink how they manage access, monitor activity, and maintain resilience against rapidly evolving threats. You’ll learn: Why AI agents introduce new identity and governance risks The dangers of shadow AI inside enterprise environments How AI impacts compliance, attribution, and accountability Why foundational practices like patching, segmentation, and documentation still matter The role of continuous monitoring in AI-driven environments How organizations can balance innovation with resilience and control Whether you’re leading cybersecurity strategy, managing critical infrastructure, or navigating AI adoption inside regulated environments, this episode delivers practical insights for securing the next generation of digital operations. Tune in to learn how AI is transforming cybersecurity - and what leaders must do to stay ahead - only on Protect It All. Key Moments:  07:47 AI guardrails discussion 12:02 Patching and network segmentation 20:44 AI changing job roles 24:24 FISMA and FedRAMP concerns 29:18 Emergency response planning 35:36 Choosing the right tech team 37:14 Discussing accountability and risk 46:31 Developer access problems 51:50 AI Dependence Risks 57:36 AI in pen testing 58:55 AI in risk prevention About the guest : Ken Foster is a veteran cybersecurity leader with 25+ years of experience in enterprise security, risk governance, and global infrastructure strategy. Currently Head of Global Architecture at Adient, Ken has previously led cybersecurity and compliance programs at Fleetcor and Fiserv, specializing in IAM, cloud security, regulatory compliance, and risk-based cybersecurity strategy. He is known for helping organizations balance innovation, resilience, and operational execution in highly regulated environments. How to connect Ken: http://linkedin.com/in/kennethfoster/ Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Website: https://protectitall.co/  X: https://twitter.com/protectitall  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrOTectITAll  FaceBook:  http...

    1h 7m
  4. From NFL to OT Cybersecurity Why Trust and Teamwork Matter More Than Tools | Aaron Crow

    MAY 4

    From NFL to OT Cybersecurity Why Trust and Teamwork Matter More Than Tools | Aaron Crow

    Cybersecurity isn’t just about technology - it’s about people. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Sean Tufts for a conversation that goes far beyond tools and tactics. From the locker room to control rooms, Sean shares how his journey from professional football to OT cybersecurity shaped his approach to trust, teamwork, and leadership. Together, they unpack one of the biggest challenges in OT environments: building trust between IT and OT teams. Because without trust, even the best tools fail. You’ll learn: Why trust is the foundation of OT cybersecurity success How to bridge the gap between IT teams and engineers The role of communication and empathy in security programs Real-world lessons from segmentation failures and hidden network risks Why diversity and teamwork drive stronger security outcomes How leadership mindset shapes resilience in high-stakes environments Whether you’re leading cybersecurity, working in OT environments, or building cross-functional teams, this episode delivers practical insights on the human side of security—where real progress happens. Tune in to learn why the strongest cybersecurity programs are built on people, not just platforms only on Protect It All. Key Moments:  05:11 Importance of communication in tech 06:58 Learning from early career mistakes 11:40 Implementing network scanning in OT environments 15:50 Debating project priorities in cybersecurity 18:24 Improving system reliability and ROI 20:28 Convincing plants to self-fund projects 26:21 Creating layered RACI charts 26:57 Discussing people, process, and technology 31:15 Easy validations and big risks 34:35 Operators' productivity challenges 37:21 Network security in hospitals 42:25 Creating a safe network environment 43:10 Addressing network configuration issues 46:55 Different types of AI users About the guest :  Sean Tufts is Field CTO at Claroty and a cybersecurity leader with deep expertise in industrial environments. With leadership roles at GE and Optiv, he has helped asset-intensive industries navigate the intersection of OT, IT, and cyber risk. Before cybersecurity, Sean was a standout linebacker and team captain at the University of Colorado and went on to play in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers bringing the same discipline, teamwork, and leadership mindset to securing critical infrastructure today. How to connect Sean :  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-tufts-36b4909/ Website: https://claroty.com/ Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Website: https://protectitall.co/  X: https://twitter.com/protectitall  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrOTectITAll  FaceBook:  https://facebook.com/protectitallpodcast  To be a guest or s...

    49 min
  5. Cyber Risk in Construction: Securing AEC Projects in a Digital, AI-Driven World

    APR 27

    Cyber Risk in Construction: Securing AEC Projects in a Digital, AI-Driven World

    Construction sites are no longer just physical - they’re digital, connected, and increasingly vulnerable. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Lee Carsten to explore the rising cyber risks across the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. As digital transformation accelerates - with AI, digital twins, and connected building systems becoming standard - construction projects are expanding their attack surface in ways many organizations don’t fully understand. Aaron and Lee unpack the unique challenges facing AEC environments, from fragmented systems and evolving workflows to the growing need for integrating cybersecurity into business decisions - not just IT functions. You’ll learn: Why construction and infrastructure projects are becoming prime cyber targets How digital transformation and AI are reshaping risk in AEC environments The role of building management systems (BMS) and OT in modern projects Why foundational controls and human awareness still matter most How to align cybersecurity with real-world construction workflows Practical strategies to build resilience into projects from day one Whether you’re in construction, engineering, IT, or OT security, this episode delivers real-world insights to help you protect the infrastructure we rely on every day. Tune in to learn how to secure modern construction in a connected world - only on Protect It All. Key Moments:  05:39 Importance of interpersonal skills 08:08 Construction security and recent projects 11:46 Challenges in AEC industry adoption 19:30 Importance of disaster recovery 20:31 Discussing costs of business interruptions 24:06 RFP process and bid management 27:25 Complexity of building projects 32:02 FBI investigation triggers and readiness 36:55 Managing complex building assets 39:37 Choosing durable equipment and future tech 42:01 Understanding OT data for security About the guest :  Lee Carsten’s journey in technology began in the era of punch cards - painstakingly sorted and fed into compilers, where a single fumble could mean hours' worth of work undone. Lee studied COBOL in college, envisioning a future as a programmer. That path nearly led to Walmart, where Lee’s mother worked on the company’s pioneering buyer decision support system under Randy Mott. While the family connection and an offer from Kevin Turner to join a new team were tempting, Lee ultimately decided against moving to Bentonville and working for $18,000 annually. This early exposure to large-scale business technology, combined with pivotal career choices, shaped Lee Carsten’s perspective on IT and the evolving world of software development. How to connect Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leecarsten/ Website: https://whitecaprisk.com/ Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Website: https://protectitall.co/  X: https://twitter.com/protectitall  YouTube: https://www.you...

    50 min
  6. Breaking Into OT Cybersecurity: Closing the Skills Gap and Protecting Critical Infrastructure

    APR 20

    Breaking Into OT Cybersecurity: Closing the Skills Gap and Protecting Critical Infrastructure

    The biggest challenge in OT cybersecurity isn’t just technology - it’s people. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Mike Holcomb to explore one of the most urgent issues facing the industry today: the growing skills gap in OT and ICS cybersecurity. Mike shares his journey from IT into operational technology security and breaks down why more professionals are needed to defend the systems that power energy, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure worldwide. This conversation goes beyond awareness - it’s about practical pathways into the field and how the community is stepping up to make OT cybersecurity more accessible. You’ll learn: Why OT cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand and underserved fields How to transition from IT to OT cybersecurity The biggest barriers newcomers face - and how to overcome them What foundational skills and controls matter most in ICS environments The role of community initiatives like BSides ICS in closing the gap Why training, mentorship, and collaboration are critical for the future Whether you’re looking to break into cybersecurity, pivot your career, or build stronger teams, this episode delivers actionable guidance and inspiration from someone actively shaping the future of OT security. Tune in to learn how to build a career while helping protect the infrastructure the world depends on - only on Protect It All. Key Moments:  03:07 Getting started in cybersecurity 06:33 Early passion for cybersecurity 11:54 Hurricane Katrina aftermath discussion 15:50 Awareness and education on OT security 17:49 First experiences with GRID class 25:07 Early challenges in OT cybersecurity 29:17 Importance of effective communication 35:11 Global expansion of cybersecurity events 39:52 Building a foundation in OT cybersecurity 43:36 Excitement for new CompTIA exam 46:48 Expressing appreciation for community involvement About the guest:  Mike Holcomb is an independent consultant focused on OT/ICS cybersecurity and an educational content creator. Prior to supporting clients full-time through UtilSec, he was the Fellow of Cybersecurity and the OT/ICS Cybersecurity Global Lead for one of the world’s largest engineering and construction companies, providing him with the opportunity to work in securing some of the world’s largest OT/ICS environments, from power plants and commuter rail to manufacturing facilities and refineries. As part of his community efforts, Michael founded the BSidesICS/OT with multiple events planned globally in 2026. He has his master’s degree in OT/ICS cybersecurity from the SANS Technology Institute. Additionally, he maintains cyber security and OT/ICS certifications such as the CISSP, GRID, GICSP, GCIP, GPEN, GCIH, ISA 62443, and more. He was awarded the SANS Difference Maker Award for Practitioner of the Year: ICS/OT Defender for 2025 and BEER-ISAC's Community Builder Award for 2026. He posts regularly on LinkedIn and YouTube to help others learn more about securing OT/ICS and critical infrastructure.  How to connect Mike:  Main Site: mikeholcomb.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mikeholcomb YouTube: youtube.com/@utilsec Instagram: instagram/_mikeholcomb/ Newsletter: utilsec.kit.com/95e31307f7 BSidesICS/OT: bsidesics.org Connect With Aaron Crow: Webs...

    49 min
  7. OT Risk Management That Works: Asset Visibility, Risk Quantification & CISO-Level Strategy

    APR 13

    OT Risk Management That Works: Asset Visibility, Risk Quantification & CISO-Level Strategy

    You can’t manage risk you can’t measure - or even see. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Nicholas Friedman to explore how organizations can move beyond compliance and build real, measurable cybersecurity programs across IT and OT environments. With experience spanning banking, aerospace, and critical infrastructure, Nicholas shares how risk management principles translate across industries - and why understanding business context is critical to protecting operational systems. This conversation dives into one of the biggest challenges in OT today: asset visibility and risk quantification. From outdated spreadsheets to modern automation, Aaron and Nicholas break down what it actually takes to understand exposure, justify investment, and communicate risk at the board level. You’ll learn: Why asset inventory is the foundation of OT security How to move from compliance checklists to real risk reduction The importance of risk quantification for CISOs and executives How to communicate cybersecurity in business and financial terms The role of automation and knowledge transfer in scaling security programs Lessons from banking and aerospace applied to utilities and critical infrastructure Whether you’re leading a cybersecurity program, managing OT environments, or presenting to the board, this episode delivers practical strategies to align security with business value and measurable outcomes. Tune in to learn how to turn cybersecurity into a risk-driven, business-aligned strategy - only on Protect It All. Key Moments:  05:14 Understanding business risk basics 08:40 Building effective OT cybersecurity teams 13:26 Challenges with aging IT and OT systems 14:19 Organizing IT and OT assets 18:31 Understanding OT and IT risks 21:53 Evaluating security risks and priorities 25:31 Improving asset deployment and management 29:14 Evaluating and prioritizing risks 31:12 Shifting focus to success plans 35:59 Selling tech that delivers results 37:22 Hands-on approach to cybersecurity 42:39 Challenges with NERC audit processes 44:47 Balancing compliance and security 49:45 Challenges in power utility operations 51:55 AI, OT, and risk management 56:31 Importance of early compliance planning About the guest :  Nicholas Friedman is an enterprise risk and governance leader with 25+ years of experience across Fortune 500 companies and government sectors. He specializes in integrated risk management, compliance, and AI governance - helping organizations build scalable frameworks that align security, risk, and business resilience. How to connect Nicholas Friedman :  Linkedin :  https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasfriedman/ Website : https://www.templarshield.com/ Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Website: https://protectitall.co/  X: https://twitter.com/protectitall

    1h 1m
  8. 100 Episodes of Protect It All: Aaron Crow’s Journey Through IT, OT & Cybersecurity

    APR 6

    100 Episodes of Protect It All: Aaron Crow’s Journey Through IT, OT & Cybersecurity

    In this special milestone episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow steps away from the usual format to share his personal journey - from early days working with PLCs at a kitchen table to building a platform that connects and educates cybersecurity professionals around the world. This episode is more than a reflection - it’s a story of persistence, curiosity, and community. Aaron walks through the evolution of IT and OT cybersecurity, the lessons learned from decades in the field, and how conversations with experts across 100 episodes have shaped his perspective on what it truly means to “Protect It All.” You’ll hear: How Aaron’s career in IT and OT began - and what kept him going The biggest lessons learned across 30+ years in cybersecurity What building a podcast taught him about community and leadership How the industry has evolved - and what still hasn’t changed Why relationships and shared knowledge matter more than ever What’s next for the future of cybersecurity and the podcast Whether you’ve been listening since episode one or you’re just discovering the show, this episode offers inspiration, perspective, and a deeper look behind the mic. Tune in to celebrate 100 episodes and the journey of protecting what matters most - only on Protect It All. Key Moments:  04:12 Early tech projects and hobbies 09:31 First tech job setting up classrooms 11:20 Getting certified in IT 16:49 Early career in power and cybersecurity 18:08 Building a versatile IT team 24:23 Starting the cybersecurity podcast journey 26:28 Feeling recognized in the podcast world 29:22 Getting started in cybersecurity Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Website: https://protectitall.co/  X: https://twitter.com/protectitall  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrOTectITAll  FaceBook:  https://facebook.com/protectitallpodcast To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at info@protectitall.co Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts: Apple   - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/protect-it-all/id1727211124 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1Vvi0euj3rE8xObK0yvYi4

    32 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

PrOTect IT All is a weekly cybersecurity podcast covering the full spectrum. IT, OT, cloud, AI, IoT, and everything in between. Host Aaron Crow sits down with practitioners, leaders, and builders for real conversations about people, process, and technology. From securing power plants and manufacturing floors to navigating enterprise risk and emerging threats, this show is about how we actually protect the things that matter. No product pitches. No hype. Just the people doing the work, sharing what they've learned.

Information

  • Creator
    Aaron Crow
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    107
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    PrOTect It All

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