In this episode of Exploring Information Security, host Timothy De Block sits down with Dave Chronister and Brooke Deneen to discuss ShowMeCon, the Midwest’s premier security conferences. Dave shares the vision behind ShowMeCon, how it stands apart from other security events, and what attendees can expect from the 2025 edition. Brooke provides insights into the logistics of running the conference and the community-driven experience that makes it special. Whether you're a seasoned security professional or new to the space, this episode highlights why ShowMeCon is a must-attend event.

Use ExploringSec to get $50 off.

• Learn more about ShowMeCon: showmecon.com

• Register for Training or the Conference: Registration Link

• Event Venue and Room Block Information: Ameristar Casino & Resort

• Connect with Dave Chronister: LinkedIn Profile

• Connect with Brooke Deneen: LinkedIn Profile

• The Origin of ShowMeCon: How the conference came to be and its unique place in the cybersecurity event landscape.

• Balancing Corporate and Hacker Culture: Creating a professional yet welcoming environment that bridges the gap between security research and IT professionals.

• Venue and Experience: Why the Ameristar Casino in St. Louis is an ideal location and what makes the event an immersive experience.

• Speaker and Attendee Engagement: The focus on quality content, hands-on learning, and ensuring speakers are passionate and approachable.

• Expanding to New Cities: Plans to bring the ShowMeCon model to new locations like Nashville and beyond.

• ShowMeCon 2025 Highlights: The return of pre-conference training, CTFs, lockpicking villages, and an exciting Fallout-themed experience.

• Building a Security Community: Encouraging new speakers, creating a welcoming space, and fostering professional development.

• ShowMeCon is designed for practical security education, offering content relevant to both IT and security professionals.

• The conference prides itself on being a well-run, high-quality event where speakers and attendees engage meaningfully.

• Training opportunities and community events, such as CTFs and lockpicking villages, enhance the overall experience.

• ShowMeCon’s future includes expansion to other cities and continued efforts to foster an inclusive and passionate security community.

• Dave Chronister is the founder of ShowMeCon and a cybersecurity professional with over 18 years of experience in the industry.

• Brooke Deneen plays a key role in organizing ShowMeCon and ensuring the event runs smoothly.

Enjoyed this episode? Leave us a review and share it with your network! Subscribe for more insightful discussions on information security and cybersecurity events.

Leave a comment below or reach out via the contact form on the site, email timothy.deblock[@]exploresec[.]com, or reach out on LinkedIn.

Check out our services page and reach out if you see any services that fit your needs.

[RSS Feed] [iTunes] [LinkedIn][YouTube]

Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates.

We respect your privacy.