Remote access transformed overnight - and OT environments are still feeling the impact.

In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow is joined by Steve Rutherford, VP of Sales at Hyperport and former military officer, for a candid conversation on how secure remote access in operational technology (OT) has evolved - and where it’s heading next.

They unpack how COVID accelerated remote connectivity across critical infrastructure, why many traditional IT security tools fall short in OT environments, and what protection really looks like when safety, reliability, and uptime are non-negotiable. Drawing from military discipline and frontline OT experience, Steve shares a grounded perspective on managing risk in environments where failure has physical-world consequences.

You’ll learn:

If you’re responsible for enabling remote access while protecting critical operations, this episode delivers real-world insight, practical guidance, and a forward-looking view of OT cybersecurity.

Tune in to understand what secure OT access really requires in today’s threat landscape- only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

00:00 Securing Critical Infrastructure Access

03:59 "OT Mindset: Defense and Offense"

07:26 "Remote Access Challenges in Operations"

11:45 "Challenges in OT-IT Integration"

16:07 Authority Must Match Responsibility

18:23 Simplifying OT Authentication Challenges

21:53 "Dynamic Trust Scoring with AI"

24:05 "Access Control and Segmentation"

28:57 "Secure Access Without Overreach"

33:12 "Left of Boom Awareness"

35:56 OT Security and Local Control

39:35 "Driving Early Adoption Awareness"

41:54 "Proactive Support for Critical Infrastructure"

45:52 "Remote Work Enhances Team Efficiency"

47:17 "Exciting Tech for Cybersecurity"

About the guest :
Steve Rutherford is a former U.S. Army officer and aviator who transitioned his mission-driven mindset from military service to protecting critical infrastructure through operational technology (OT) security. After exploring multiple industries, Steve found a natural alignment between military operations and OT environments - where safety, reliability, and uptime are non-negotiable. Today, he works in secure user access for OT, helping organizations protect the systems that power modern life.

How to connect steve : 

Website : https://hyperport.io/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steverutherford1/

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

Remote access is no longer optional in OT - but unmanaged connectivity is one of the fastest ways to lose control of critical systems.

In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow breaks down the real challenges of securing connectivity across IT and OT environments. As vendors, technicians, and support teams increasingly rely on remote access, many organizations struggle with poor visibility, legacy systems, and unclear network boundaries - creating unnecessary risk.

Aaron walks through newly released secure connectivity guidance from CISA and the UK National Cyber Security Centre, translating an eight-point framework into practical, real-world steps that security and operations teams can actually implement.

You’ll learn:

Whether you’re responsible for OT security, managing vendors, or bridging IT and OT teams, this episode delivers actionable guidance to help you regain control of connectivity and protect critical infrastructure.

Tune in to learn how to secure access without sacrificing operations - only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

01:11 "Secure Connectivity in OT"

05:10 "Reducing Attack Surface Through Access Limits"

10:02 "Control System Upgrade Failure Impact"

12:00 Beyond Passwords: Strengthening Security

17:16 "Strengthening Cybersecurity Basics"

18:26 "Balancing Compliance and Security"

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

Small businesses aren’t too small to be targeted; they're often the first targets.

In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow breaks down what cybersecurity really looks like for small and medium-sized businesses with limited resources. With nearly half of all cyberattacks aimed at SMBs and many companies never recovering, this episode focuses on what actually matters when budgets, time, and teams are tight.

Aaron cuts through fear-based messaging and tool overload to share simple, affordable steps that can dramatically reduce risk without requiring a full security team or enterprise spend.

You’ll learn:

Whether you’re a founder, business owner, or IT lead at a growing company, this episode gives you practical guidance you can act on immediately before a cyber incident forces your hand.

Tune in to learn how to protect your business, your data, and your future only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

03:37 Cybersecurity Risks for Small Businesses

08:06 System Security and Backup Essentials

12:21 Cybersecurity: Prepare, Monitor, Survive

14:21 Efficient Device Monitoring Simplified

19:31 "Three-Two-One Backup Strategy"

20:20 "Planning Left of Bang"

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

 Great cybersecurity programs aren’t built in a panic - they’re built through early planning, trusted relationships, and consistent execution.

In this kickoff episode for 2026 of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow shares practical, real-world guidance on how cybersecurity leaders can avoid last-minute scrambles and instead build momentum that lasts all year. Drawing from years of experience across IT and OT environments, Aaron explains why people, trust, and planning matter more than any single tool or technology.

This episode dives into how successful teams think ahead, budgeting wisely, engaging stakeholders early, and creating space for learning, networking, and collaboration beyond spreadsheets and ROI metrics.

You’ll learn:

Whether you’re planning budgets, building teams, or refining IT/OT security strategy, this episode delivers actionable guidance to help you move from intention to execution.

Tune in and learn how to build a cybersecurity program that works all year long - only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

03:51 "Planning for Unforeseen Challenges"

09:02 "AI Automation: Challenges and Expectations"

10:21 "Budgeting: The Importance of Buffers"

16:16 "Diversity in Problem-Solving Approaches"

17:53 "Understanding Perspectives and Future Goals"

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

AI is everywhere - but it won’t fix broken cybersecurity foundations.

In this end-of-year wrap-up episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow takes a hard look at the growing hype around AI in cybersecurity and explains why fundamentals still matter more than any shiny new tool, especially in OT environments.

Drawing from real-world experience and industry observations, Aaron challenges the belief that AI can compensate for missing basics like asset inventory, network segmentation, and clear ownership. He reframes AI as a powerful assistant not a savior and warns against the risks of rushing into automation without understanding what you’re protecting in the first place.

You’ll learn:

What OT and IT teams should prioritize heading into 2026
Whether you’re closing out the year or planning ahead, this episode delivers a grounded, experience-driven perspective on building resilient cybersecurity programs—without chasing hype.

Tune in to hear why mastering the basics is still the smartest cyber strategy - only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

03:32 "Technology Complexity vs. Practicality"

09:33 "AI as an Entry-Level Intern"

12:29 "AI: A Powerful Team Tool"

16:24 "AI Alone Won't Fix Cyber"

19:34 "Mastering Basics Before AI Integration"

21:46 "Shadow AI and Resilience"

25:26 "Addressing Gaps and Ownership"

30:27 "Foundations Matter for Success"

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

AI promises transformation - but legacy technology, process gaps, and cyber risk often stand in the way.

In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with veteran IT and cybersecurity leader Neil D. Morris, who brings over 30 years of experience across aerospace, defense, and energy sectors. Together, they cut through the hype to explore what really matters when modernizing technology and managing cyber risk in complex, real-world environments.

Neil shares candid insights on why legacy systems still power critical operations, why replacing them isn’t as simple as it sounds, and how organizations can unlock real value from AI without increasing risk. The conversation dives into tech debt, regulation, ROI, and the often-overlooked role of process in successful transformation.

You’ll learn:

Whether you’re leading digital transformation, managing cyber risk, or advising the business on AI adoption, this episode delivers real talk and practical wisdom from the front lines of IT and OT leadership.

Tune in to learn how to modernize responsibly, manage risk intelligently, and separate AI reality from hype only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

00:00 "Legacy Tech in Modern Firms"

06:22 "Technology, Change, and Customer Focus"

09:51 "Challenges in Articulating Cybersecurity Value"

12:27 "Tech Solutions Must Drive Value"

15:43 Sell Ideas Beyond the Code

19:03 "Ransomware Risks in Acquisitions"

24:02 Government, Services, and Compliance Debate

25:35 Balancing AI, Cybersecurity, and Regulation

30:33 BlackBerry's Downfall: Ignored Innovation

32:06 "Evolution and Misuse of AI"

34:45 "Opportunity to Lead Change"

37:52 "AI Without Guidance Backfires"

41:07 "AI: Smart but Context-Lacking"

46:45 "AI Empowering Business Transformation"

50:30 "Effortless Tech-Fueled Imitation"

About the guest : 

Neil D. Morris is a senior enterprise technology leader with 25+ years of experience in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and AI at scale. He currently serves as Head of IT at Redaptive and previously held CIO roles at Ball Aerospace and Maxar Technologies. Neil is known for guiding organizations through complex modernization efforts while balancing security, risk, and business value.

How to connect Neil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neildmorris/

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

Cybersecurity has evolved from an afterthought to a business-critical responsibility - and AI is accelerating that shift faster than most organizations are ready for.

In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Sue McTaggart, a cybersecurity leader with a software development background and more than 15 years of experience driving security transformation. Together, they explore how cybersecurity success today depends less on shiny new tools and more on culture, governance, and fundamentals done right.

Sue shares her journey from developer to cybersecurity leader, offering real-world insights into embedding security thinking into everyday work - not bolting it on after something breaks. The conversation tackles the realities of AI adoption, the risks of over-automation, and why human oversight and curiosity remain essential in an increasingly automated world.

You’ll learn:

Whether you’re a security leader, technologist, or business decision-maker navigating AI adoption, this episode delivers grounded, practical wisdom for building resilience that lasts.

Tune in to learn why strong cybersecurity still starts with people, not platform,s only on Protect It All.

Key Moments:

01:12 Cybersecurity Evolution and Insights

03:51 "Cybersecurity Requires Culture Shift"

07:09 "Tech Failures and Curfew Challenges"

10:30 "Prioritizing Security in AI Development"

15:05 Cybersecurity's Role in Everything

19:37 "Everything is Sales"

23:54 Adapting Communication for Audiences

26:26 "Think Ahead, Stay Curious."

28:30 Tinkering and Curiosity Unleashed

31:32 "Gen Z: Redefining Work and Life."

36:17 Governing AI: Benefits and Risks

37:59 AI Needs Human Oversight

42:35 "AI's Role in Cybersecurity."

47:25 "Hackers Exploit Basic Vulnerabilities."

About the guest:

Sue McTaggart is a passionate educator and cybersecurity professional with a strong background in software development. Her curiosity and desire to raise awareness led her to transition from developing applications primarily in languages like Java in the early 2000s to the field of cybersecurity. Sue is dedicated to empowering others through education and strives to share her knowledge to help others better understand cybersecurity risks and solutions. She is honored and humbled by opportunities to speak about her work and continues to inspire those around her with her commitment to ongoing learning and public awareness.

How to connect Sue: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-mctaggart-24604158/

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

The future of cybersecurity won’t be won by tools alone - it will be won by people, process, and smarter use of AI.

In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with cybersecurity veteran Sharad Rai to explore how IT and OT security teams can reduce complexity, fight alert fatigue, and build stronger defenses through foundational practices and intelligent automation.

Sharad brings decades of real-world experience - from early firewall management to leading large-scale security programs at major financial institutions. Together, Aaron and Sharad break down what actually works in cybersecurity today: simplifying policies, understanding user behavior, strengthening basics like patching, and leveraging AI for contextual decision-making.

You’ll learn:

Whether you're a security leader, practitioner, or just navigating modern cyber challenges, this episode will reshape how you think about defending systems and the people using them.

Tune in to discover how AI, clarity, and human-centered design are shaping cybersecurity’s next chapter only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

06:21 "Cybersecurity Basics: Know the Layers"

09:49 "Defining Good to Block Bad"

13:03 Alarm Fatigue and Information Overload

14:01 Alarm Tuning and Data Utilization

19:02 RFID Tags and Process Frustration

23:03 Simplifying Cybersecurity for Success

25:18 "AI Optimizing Policy Adjustments"

27:33 "Tech Frustrations Then and Now"

31:46 Cloud Computing Transformed Everyday Work

36:05 Focus on Foundational Basics

About the guest : 

Sharad Rai is a cybersecurity leader and architect with over 20 years of experience securing some of the world’s most complex financial institutions. As Vice President of Security and Architecture at State Street, he leads regulatory-driven initiatives and delivers enterprise-wide cybersecurity programs across cloud, infrastructure, and endpoint platforms. Sharad has held key security roles at Morgan Stanley, BNP Paribas, Jefferies, and Foundation Medicine, with deep expertise in EDR, PAM, SASE, ZTNA, and cloud-native security. He is known for simplifying complexity, reducing risk, and bridging product, engineering, and executive teams.

How to connect Sharad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharad-rai-cissp-a951a28

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

Cyber incidents don’t just test your technology - they test your people, your processes, and your culture.

In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Daniel Swann, Cyber Incident Commander at Rockwell Automation, to pull back the curtain on what really happens during IT and OT incidents. With decades of experience across the U.S. Air Force, enterprise environments, and industrial operations, Daniel shares lessons learned the hard way - from managing chaos in real time to building a culture where teams can learn without blame.

You’ll learn:

Whether you’re developing your first IR playbook or leading seasoned response teams, this episode delivers actionable, real-world insights that help you prepare, respond, and recover with confidence.

Tune in for battle-tested wisdom from military operations to industrial control rooms - only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

00:00 "Protect IT/OT Cybersecurity Podcast"

03:30 Cybersecurity: Versatility Is Key

07:52 "Balancing Bureaucracy and Flexibility"

10:20 "Practice Makes Plans Effective"

14:17 "Learning While Doing"

18:44 "Document Key Info in Incidents"

19:46 "Versatile Team Role Importance"

22:45 "Tracking Lessons with Visibility"

28:34 Proactive Reporting Encouraged

29:33 Safe Reporting Prevents Phishing Incidents

32:52 "Bridging IT and OT Safely"

37:15 Team Collaboration Enhances Outcomes

41:00 Military Preparedness and Logistics Planning

42:59 Preparing for Unlikely Scenarios

47:20 AI Threats to OT Systems

48:32 "AI's Impact on Learning and Jobs"

About the guest: 

Daniel Swann is a seasoned Cyber Incident Commander at Rockwell Automation, bringing 17+ years of IT leadership and nearly a decade of cybersecurity experience. A U.S. Air Force veteran, he has led global cyber operations, responded to major vulnerabilities like Log4J, and driven large-scale improvements in incident response and vulnerability management. Daniel is highly certified, mission-driven, and recognized for building strong, resilient security teams.

Links : 

Video of Daniel Swann with Kate Vajda, Director of Vulnerability Research and Malware Threat Research, Dragos : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zotgrPk8vI

Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-daniel-swann/

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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

The cybersecurity job market is changing faster than ever - and the skills that mattered five years ago won’t carry you into the future.

In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Mark Sasson, Managing Partner at Pinpoint Search Group, to break down what the future of cybersecurity careers really looks like. From the rise of AI and automation to the growing importance of human skills, they uncover the new realities facing candidates, hiring managers, and leaders across IT and OT security.

You’ll learn:

Whether you’re entering cybersecurity, leveling up your role, or hiring your next team member, this episode delivers real-world, actionable insights to help you stay relevant  - and competitive in an evolving industry.

Tune in to learn how to stay ahead in the cybersecurity job market of today and tomorrow  only on Protect It All.

Key Moments: 

04:14 Recruitment Growth and Funding Trends

06:42 Tangible Value in AI Age

12:18 "Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone"

15:16 "Growth Through Embracing Discomfort"

19:23 "Embracing Growth and New Challenges"

21:01 Balancing Growth and Bold Moves

25:14 "Breaking Into Tech: Sacrifice & Strategy"

27:40 Experience Beats Book Knowledge

32:13 Human Insight Beats AI in Hiring

34:45 AI Recruitment: Potential, Limits, Distinctions

39:37 "Reluctant Growth through Opportunity"

42:47 "AI Tools: Benefits and Downsides"

44:29 "Human-Centered Hiring Over AI"

50:12 "Human Connection Over Technology"

53:23 "Planning Your Next Step"

About the guest: 

Mark Sasson is the Managing Partner of Pinpoint Search Group, a recruitment firm specializing in helping innovators in emerging markets attract the talent needed to drive maturation, scale, and successful outcomes. In 2014, Mark launched Pinpoint’s Cybersecurity practice, where he and his team have successfully completed hundreds of executive and senior-level individual contributor searches for leading Cybersecurity vendors. Building on that success, Mark is now guiding Pinpoint’s expansion into the rapidly evolving Space sector.

Connect Mark: 

Website: https://pinpointsearchgroup.com/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/markjsasson/
Learn more about Cybersecurity Vendor M&A + Funding Roundups here : https://pinpointsearchgroup.com/cybersecurity-industry-reports/

Connect With Aaron Crow:

Learn more about PrOTect IT All:

To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at [email protected]

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