In this episode, Sedric sits down with Barbara Shelton, CEO of Secure Shield Cyber Security Insurance, to cut through the hype around “shiny tool + insurance” packages.

Barbara explains why many small and medium businesses think they’re protected, but when an incident happens, the fine print often leaves them exposed.

She breaks down why insurers can deny claims, and why relying on bundled software with your policy is risky.

We dive into what actually matters: evaluating risk properly, having the right governance, and understanding how real-world incidents play out.

Barbara also shares how her approach focuses on data coverage, GRC, and quantum-ready planning, so businesses don’t just pay premiums, they get real protection.

If you’re navigating cyber insurance and want to make sure your coverage actually works when you need it, this episode is a must-listen.

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In this episode, we break down one of the biggest mindset shifts happening in the industry: moving away from old-school, boundary-based security and stepping fully into Zero Trust.

Oscar Papel explains why the “build a wall and hope for the best” approach just doesn’t work anymore. You fix one issue and another pops up, and modern threats move way too fast for reactive security.

We dive into what Zero Trust actually looks like in real environments, how teams are adapting, and why assuming nothing is safe is becoming the only realistic strategy.From infrastructure challenges to culture shifts, this conversation gets into the real-world side of making Zero Trust stick, not the textbook version.

If you’re navigating today’s security landscape or trying to modernize your org, this episode will hit home.

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In this episode of the CNL Podcast, Sedric sits down with Petros, Director of IT at Employees Club of California, for a real talk about ransomware, backups, and what actually works in the real world.

Petros shares why paying ransoms only fuels more attacks and how having solid, offline backups can save your business when things go wrong.We chat about the simple habits that make the biggest difference, like enabling MFA, keeping cloud setups clean, and training your people the right way.He also breaks down how internal phishing tests and real conversations with employees work way better than just sending out another training video.Petros opens up about wearing multiple hats in IT, running infrastructure, development, and security all at once, and what that pressure teaches you about leadership.This episode’s packed with relatable stories, practical steps, and honest advice you can start using right away.If you’re in IT or just trying to make your company a little safer, this one’s worth the listen. Follow us on Social 👇YouTube ► www.youtube.com/@CynexlinkLinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/cynexlink/

In this episode of the CNL Podcast, Sedric sits down with Zakkery Gage, Director of Cybersecurity at Inversion6, for a real and refreshing take on what it’s like to protect small and midsize businesses in today’s world.

Zakkery shares how he went from troubleshooting tech problems to helping companies build real security cultures that last.

He opens up about the unique challenges SMBs face, tight budgets, limited staff, and growing threats that never seem to slow down.

We talk about the importance of awareness, communication, and teamwork, because cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue, it’s everyone’s responsibility.

💬 “You don’t need every tool on the market. You just need to use what you have the right way.”

Zakkery also dives into leadership, how staying curious, adaptable, and connected can transform the way you manage risk.

This episode is full of insights, laughs, and real talk about what it actually takes to keep a business secure.

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In this episode of the CNL Podcast, Sedric sits down with Robert Bingham, VP of IT and Security at Excelsior Wellness, to talk about the challenges and realities of managing cybersecurity in the age of AI.

Robert shares his journey from serving in Navy cyber warfare to leading technology and security in the healthcare space.

He opens up about facing an overwhelming 700+ AI tools within his organization — and how that explosion of innovation comes with hidden risks.

We dive into how communication, accountability, and trust keep teams aligned when technology moves faster than policy.

💬 “You can’t secure what you don’t know — and that includes every AI tool your employees bring in.”

Packed with practical lessons, leadership insights, and real-world stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating cybersecurity in today’s AI-driven world.

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In this episode of the CNL Podcast, Sedric sits down with Aaron Schaub, Chief Information Security Officer at United Midwest Savings Bank.Aaron shares his journey from tinkering with computers in the late ’90s to leading cybersecurity for one of the region’s top financial institutions.He talks about how saying yes to challenges shaped his growth , and why adaptability and accountability define true leadership.We dive deep into the human side of security, your people, your culture, your “carbon-based firewalls.”“The technology is the easy part. People are the challenge.”Packed with insights, stories, and lessons on resilience, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow into a cybersecurity leader. Follow us on Social 👇 Youtube ►www.youtube.com/@Cynexlink LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/cynexlink/

On this episode of the CNL Podcast, Sedric sits down with Trenton Ridgway to explore what real leadership in cybersecurity looks like.

Trenton shares why true security starts with owning risk, not just managing technology. He talks about the importance of accountability and why collaboration beats blame every time.

When things go wrong, pointing fingers doesn’t fix it, communication does. Trenton also opens up about learning through failure and how every setback is a step forward.

We dive into why curiosity is a leader’s greatest tool and why growth never stops in this field. He reminds us that certifications fade, but your mindset and willingness to learn will take you further.

Trenton discusses how investing in your development through mentors, training, and real-world experiences builds confidence and trust.

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On this episode of the CNL Podcast, Sedric sits down with Chris Leslie to talk about the realities of starting a career in technology.
Chris shares why patience is the key trait every beginner needs when stepping into the fast-moving world of tech. and opens up about the overwhelming pace of change and why it’s impossible to master everything overnight.
Instead, Chris encourages newcomers to focus on small, consistent progress that adds up over time. He explains how patience helps avoid burnout while building real confidence and expertise.

We dive into the mindset shifts that allow early-career professionals to grow steadily. Chris also reflects on his own experiences navigating challenges in cybersecurity and beyond!

Listeners will hear practical advice for slowing down and trusting the process. we emphasize that patience is not about waiting, it’s about learning with intention.

Chris Leslie’s story is a reminder that growth in tech, just like in life, is a marathon, not a sprint..

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On this episode of the CNL Podcast, Sedric sits down with David McHenry, Virtual CISO, to explore his unique journey from the music industry into IT and security.

David shares how creativity fueled his career shift and how mentorship shaped his leadership approach. He opens up about the importance of security awareness training making it engaging, personal, and memorable.

He also reveals why phishing and spear-phishing remain top threats and how encrypted emails can complicate defense. We dive into the challenges of security awareness programs and why videos alone aren’t enough.

Also, explained why real-time, instructor-led training can make the difference in changing behavior. He reflects on his experience building security programs from the ground up, balancing creativity with strategy. Listeners will hear practical advice for those starting out in cybersecurity, or looking to grow their career. 

David’s story is a reminder that growth comes from stepping just outside your comfort zone.

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In this episode of the CNL podcast, Peter DiDonato, Chief Innovation Officer at SC Academy, talks about the ongoing challenge of pushing new ideas forward while making sure security doesn’t fall behind.

Peter highlights why it’s so important to build security into projects right from the start, instead of trying to add it on later. This mindset is especially important in education, where technology can spark creativity but also comes with risks if it’s not protected.

He also shares the story of Project ISA, an approach SC Academy developed to make sure every new idea stays secure without holding back innovation. Along the way, Peter emphasizes the power of collaboration, reminding us that even the best teams benefit from outside expertise and fresh perspectives.

At the heart of his message: building a safe, innovative space is a team effort. It takes different skill sets, ongoing learning, and awareness of both the technical and human side of security.

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