In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Sasse, CEO of Metova—a technology consulting firm driving digital transformation across industries. From app development and IoT to fintech innovation, Jonathan shares how Metova stays ahead in an ever-evolving tech landscape.

We dive into Metova’s unique approach to software development, what it takes to build lasting client relationships, and how to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. Jonathan also reflects on his startup roots at Slacker Radio, offers practical advice for aspiring developers, and shares what qualities he looks for in top tech talent.

Plus, a little sneaker talk and why staying off the AI train might just mean getting left behind.

Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions.
Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Trent Townsend, CEO of Next Step Innovation (NSI), to explore the story behind one of the region’s fastest-growing tech companies. From humble beginnings to major federal contracts, Trent walks us through NSI’s evolution into a force in networking, security, and custom CRM solutions.

We discuss what it really takes to start and scale a business, how NSI carved out its space in the security and federal sectors, and what it means to lead with vision, grit, and integrity. Trent also shares what fuels him outside of work, how he builds company culture, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions.

Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Mathews, Vice President of Global Learning and Innovation at Oral Roberts University, to talk about the big changes happening in education.

Mike shares how ORU is leading the way with whole person education—a model that doesn’t just focus on academics, but the mind, body, and spirit. From giving every student a Fitbit to track engagement, to using AI to personalize learning, we dive into how tech is reshaping how—and why—we teach.

Whether you're an educator, tech enthusiast, or just curious about how AI and wearables are impacting the classroom, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. 

Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions. Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

In this episode of the NSI Podcast, we’re joined by Gene Patrick, author of his recent white paper "Human vs. Machine: The Strengths and Weaknesses of Automated Penetration Testing", along with Cybersecurity Engineer Joseph Allen and Dr. David O’Gywnn, Director of our Cybersecurity team.

We dive deep into the world of penetration testing—comparing automated tools with manual approaches, examining the strengths, limitations, and potential risks of each method. Topics include:

• The advantages and blind spots of automated pen testing

• Real-world issues like false positives and missed threats

• The critical role human expertise still plays in cybersecurity

• How organizations can strike the right balance between automation and manual testing

Whether you're a security professional or just starting your cybersecurity journey, this episode offers valuable insights into optimizing your security strategy. Don’t forget to check out Gene’s full white paper on our blog at nextstepinnovation.com/blog.

Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions.

Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

Calling all bourbon lovers! This episode adds a flavorful twist with a blind bourbon tasting woven into the conversation. Join us as we sit down with Jana Branham, CIO of Ergon, to talk tech, leadership, and a little whiskey wisdom. Don’t miss this fun and insightful mix of spirits and strategy!

• Tasting 1; ⁠Small Batch — Calumet Farm Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey⁠
• Tasting 2: ⁠Dareringer - Rabbit Hole Distillery⁠
• Tasting 3: ⁠Special Finishes Collection Toasted - Yellowstone Bourbon⁠
• Tasting 4: R⁠um Cask - Yellowstone Bourbon⁠

Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions.

Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Todd Borland, Executive Director of Technology at Union Public Schools, to explore 25 years of public sector tech leadership. Todd shares how K-12 technology has evolved—from early infrastructure to today’s cybersecurity challenges, remote learning, and cloud adoption. We dive into cyber incidents caused by students, the surprising rise of esports and drone leagues in schools, and the upcoming Tulsa Area Schools Technology Symposium (TASTS). Whether you’re in education IT or just tech-curious, Todd’s insights on leadership, team-building, and future trends make this a must-listen.

Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions.

Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

Stephen Tycer joins Cyber Perspective to dive into all things cybersecurity—from his unique journey transitioning from the oil and gas industry to higher education, to the evolving landscape of cyber threats and innovations. This episode explores emerging technologies that are both exciting and unsettling, offering insights into how commercial and academic worlds are responding to today’s cybersecurity challenges.

Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions.

Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

With over 20 years experience of strategic IT leadership, Dr. Nishanth Rodrigues comes from the University of Mississippi as the Chief Information Officer to the University of Oklahoma in Norman. Tune in for his view on new emerging technologies and great ideas on how to be more effective with time management.   

Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions.

Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

Join us as we dive deep into the latest AI-driven cyber threats, from deepfakes and automated phishing to self-learning malware and AI-powered hacking. Featuring expert insights from our director of cybersecurity, Dr. David O’Gwynn and unpack the risks, defenses, and ethical dilemmas shaping the future of digital security.

Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.

Today is our first episode of our new series with top technology leaders: Meet IT Leaders. Today, we have Paige Francis, CIO of Art and Wellness Enterprises.  She is a forbes contributor, author and IT expert with over 15 years of experience of impactful leadership. We go over how she made her way to the top as a CIO, and how to build a culture of excellence.  As an IT Leader, she always has the end user in mind.  

Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline operations, and implement solutions.

Learn more about NSI by visiting nextstepinnovation.com.