The Rest is Data

Scott Sammons and event director Deborah Ward-Johnson share practical advice for getting the most from conferences and one-day events. They cover how to prepare before you go, use apps and AI to plan sessions and connections, and practical logistics like registration and travel.

On-site tips include managing your social energy, using quiet spaces, engaging vendors and peers as two-way relationships, and taking secure notes or recordings when allowed. Post-event guidance focuses on quick debriefs, following up on connections, and turning insights into actions.

In this Halloween episode of The Rest Is Data, host Scott Sabins and guest Emily Overton (RM Girl) tackle why records management gets a bad rap and how it’s really everyday behaviour. They discuss modern challenges—hybrid/digital work, automation, audit needs—and argue for stronger legislation, better regulatory teeth, and the value of a dedicated records manager.

The conversation balances the promise of intelligent automation with the need to win hearts and minds, showing how people, technology and policy together can turn records management from a fright into a practical, vital discipline.

In this episode, Scott and Cristina explore the multifaceted role of the Data Protection Officer (DPO), emphasising proactive engagement, strategic involvement, and the importance of approachability to foster effective data protection practices.

Scott Sammons walks through the 5-Why model and how to use it for root-cause analysis in data breaches, process mapping, DPIAs and records management.

He explains why “human error” is often a surface label and shows how asking “why” repeatedly uncovers underlying issues (such as training gaps, under-resourcing, or technical problems) so organisations can address causes rather than blame individuals.

Hosts Scott Sammons and Laura Palmariello break down the world of subject access requests (SARs), why they’re more complex than they seem, and how AI is changing who asks and how requests are made.

In this episode of The Rest Is Data, Scott Sammons is joined by privacy professional Laura Palmariello for a practical, lively conversation about subject access requests, AI, and the growing complexity of handling sensitive employee data. They break down what requesters think they’ll receive versus what they’re actually entitled to, how AI is changing the way people draft and escalate requests, and why transparency, proportionality, and good judgment matter more than ever.

Your regular host, Scott, guides listeners through creating a personal professional development plan tailored to data protection and information governance roles. He explains how to set long-term goals, break roles into technical and soft skills, and benchmark your current abilities.

Scott offers practical steps: make a “shopping list” of desired skills and qualifications, seek mentors (formal or informal), use events and exposure to build experience, ask your employer for support, and keep a living planner so you can grab opportunities as they arise.

The Rest is Data Podcast is your go to place for all things Data, Information and Records. 

Brought to you by Lighthouse IG and hosted by Scott Sammons. 

Discover James Robson's unconventional journey from creating an internet drama series to thriving in cybersecurity sales. Learn valuable insights and career advice!

In today’s fast-paced world, how does one transition from an unexpected career in drama to a thriving role in cybersecurity sales? This is the journey of James Robson, whose unique background and experiences have shaped his approach to sales and leadership. In this post, we’ll explore his story and the lessons he learned along the way.

The Rest is Data is your home for all things Data, Information and Records. From professionals to those with a passing interest. From technical talks through to the basics and soft skills. Bi-weekly episodes and 2 seasons a year packed full of content, advice and guest speakers.

Hosted by Scott Sammons and brought to you by Lighthouse IG.

In this special edition of the IG Lighthouse podcast, host Scott Sammons discusses the New Professionals Award with previous winners Joseph Hettrick and Carys Hardy. They share their experiences applying for the award, the significance of their entries, and the impact of winning on their careers. The conversation highlights the importance of communication in the field of information and records management, as well as tips for future applicants. The episode concludes with encouragement for new professionals to share their unique perspectives and ideas.

The Rest is Data is your home for all things Data, Information and Records. From professionals to those with a passing interest. From technical talks through to the basics and soft skills. Bi-weekly episodes and 2 seasons a year packed full of content, advice and guest speakers.

Hosted by Scott Sammons and brought to you by Lighthouse IG.

In our final episode of the IG Lighthouse podcast, Scott discusses the Data Use and Access Act in the UK, highlighting it as a missed opportunity for a comprehensive overhaul of data protection laws.

He argues for a unified legal framework that reflects the UK's current status outside the EU, while also previewing upcoming topics for season two and inviting listener feedback on potential rebranding.

In this episode, Scott Sammons interviews Bruce Hallis, a cybersecurity specialist with over 20 years of experience. They discuss the importance of understanding human behaviour in cybersecurity, the cultural influences that shape behaviour, and the role of education and awareness in influencing compliance. Bruce shares insights from his podcast, 'Rethinking the Human Factor,' and emphasises the need for ethical considerations in behavioural influence. The conversation also highlights practical tips for professionals looking to enhance their understanding of human behaviour in the context of cybersecurity.

The Rest is Data is your home for all things Data, Information and Records. From professionals to those with a passing interest. From technical talks through to the basics and soft skills. Bi-weekly episodes and 2 seasons a year packed full of content, advice and guest speakers.

Hosted by Scott Sammons and brought to you by Lighthouse IG.