The Weekly Run-Down 9/2 - 6
Ryan Williams Sr.
Cybersecurity Consultant | vCISO | GRC Specialist | Podcast Host | DE&I Advocate | AI & GPT Enthusiast | Helping Businesses Achieve Compliance & Security Excellence
Welcome to another edition of The Weekly Run-Down! This week, Ryan Williams Sr. , Shannon Tynes, Chris Abacon , and Daniel Acevedo are diving into an eclectic mix of topics ranging from AI's role in cybersecurity to taking time for hobbies amidst our fast-paced lives. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a small business owner looking for cybersecurity tips, or just a fellow gamer sneaking in a few hours of playtime, there's something here for you. Get ready for updates on the latest Call of Duty beta, a must-play roguelike deck-builder, and a Mario-like adventure on the PS5. Plus, we tackle some hard-hitting cybersecurity stories from deepfake crimes to AI-powered defenses for small businesses. Let’s dive in!
Barely Gaming
Happy Friday, hardcore gamers and busy entrepreneurs who barely have time for gaming! Like many of you, I struggle to find time for my favorite hobby. But this week, I managed to sneak in a couple of gaming sessions in celebration of Labor Day.
My gaming tastes are pretty eclectic, so my sessions were all over the place. First up, I tried the Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Beta . It’s been over 10 years since I last seriously played a COD game—my last real experience was with the ill-received COD: Ghosts in November 2013. Finally, after a long break, I felt ready to dive back in. After 3-4 hours of gameplay, I must say, it felt pretty good. I was terrible, of course, but that’s all on me! I’m looking forward to downloading the full version via GamePass on October 25, 2024. I plan to at least complete the single-player campaign, and maybe play some cooperative Zombies with friends.
Next up was Balatro , a $15 poker-themed roguelike deck-builder developed by LocalThunk that keeps popping up on all the gaming podcasts I follow. It’s a lot of fun, even if you don’t know the rules of poker! The game has its own set of rules with an RPG-like twist. Here’s how the Steam page explains it: "Balatro is a roguelike card game that combines deck-building with poker mechanics. Your objective is to defeat enemy blinds by playing strategic poker hands and earning chips. Customize your deck with playing card upgrades, acquire Jokers to enhance each hand, and uncover exciting synergies to win!"
Sounds easy, right? Nope! The game is highly addictive and hard to put down. Despite playing for a few hours, I still haven’t "beaten" it. If you’re intrigued, it’s worth checking out! I bought the PS5 version so I can play it on my PS5 Portal in bed, but it’s available on current-gen, last-gen consoles, Switch, and PC.
Lastly, I downloaded Astro Bot for the PS5. It’s Sony’s Mario-like mascot platformer. I haven’t had a chance to play it yet, but I plan to dive into it this weekend. I’ll make sure to set aside some time and share my review in the next newsletter—stay tuned!
Friday - The Weekly Run Down 8/30
In this week’s episode of The Weekly Run Down, we explored how AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming the way cybersecurity professionals manage their workloads, especially when it comes to content creation and daily tasks. While AI is a game-changer for efficiency, the key takeaway is knowing when to delegate and not overload yourself. As I shared, even with AI, it’s easy to keep adding more to your plate, which is why smart delegation—whether to technology or a person—is critical for maintaining balance in this fast-paced industry.
We also talked about the importance of unplugging and finding time for hobbies, touching on the Call of Duty 6 beta , and some fun weekend plans. The message is simple: in cybersecurity, it’s vital to leverage AI tools to streamline your work, but don’t forget to take care of yourself and enjoy life outside the firewall.
Wednesday - Is There Such A Thing As A Victimless Crime?
In Wednesday’s episode of The Other Side of the Firewall, we discuss the unsettling rise of AI-generated deepfake child pornography and the legal loopholes that are leaving victims without protection. We explore privacy concerns, push for legal reform, and share actionable advice on how families can stay ahead of this emerging threat. It’s a must-listen for anyone concerned about the future of cybersecurity and digital privacy.
Tuesday - Do Small Businesses Need Fight AI With AI?
On Tuesday's episode of The Other Side of the Firewall, we discussed how AI is both a threat and a solution for small businesses facing rising cybersecurity challenges. With AI-driven cyberattacks on the rise, smaller organizations must adopt affordable, AI-powered defense mechanisms.
Monday - How Did Kentucky Inmates Steal $1M From Their Cells?
On Monday's episode, we dive into the recent million-dollar digital heist carried out by inmates in Kentucky using hacked prison-issued devices. This breach highlights the crucial need for robust cybersecurity measures in all sectors, including correctional facilities.
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TGIF
As we wrap up this week’s newsletter, the balance between work, technology, and play couldn’t be more evident. Whether you're enhancing your security posture or taking some much-needed downtime with your favorite game, it's essential to find that sweet spot between productivity and relaxation. Remember to leverage the right tools for both your work and personal life, delegate where needed, and always find time for the things that bring you joy.
Stay tuned for more episodes of The Other Side of the Firewall podcast on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Fridays, as well as, the Ask A CISSP podcast every Thursday. Please like, share, and, subscribe.
Stay safe, stay secure!
Next Guest on Ask A CISSP - Dr. Eric Todd
Dr. Eric Todd Hollis, Ph.D., MBA, CISM, CDPSE, Cyber-IT Prof. is a seasoned executive in IT, cybersecurity, and risk management, with over a decade as CEO/President of Hollisgroupllc , a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB). He specializes in developing engagements for the Department of Defense and commercial sectors, holding a CISM certification and an executive cybersecurity certificate from Harvard. Dr. Hollis is committed to providing strategic direction to protect against cyber threats, delivering global courses like "Cybersecurity for Business Leaders," and mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals as a Ph.D. researcher, dissertation chair, and adjunct professor.
?? What do an IBM Security Architect, an Accenture leader, and a retired Air Force veteran have in common? ??We're ALL joining the living legend, author, and CEO of DBS Cyber , Elizabeth S. , for the "From Zero to Cyber Hero" virtual book launch on Sept 26th! Get ready for a cybersecurity smackdown of epic proportions. ??
Register now: https://lnkd.in/eiiehAf7
And don't forget to preorder your copy of the soon-to-be-released book, 'Building a Resilient Digital Future: A Comprehensive Guide to Cyber Risk Monitoring'!
Pre-order today: https://lnkd.in/eZfDwjB9
Ryan is a retired Air Force veteran who brings over 20 years of experience in network infrastructure, project management, and cybersecurity consulting to his current roles at RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC and BuddoBot . Buddobot’s mission is to support national security by transforming, empowering, and educating organizations to shift from reactive, diluted, automated, and high-cost IT and security practices to proactive, effective solutions that fortify their security.
Shannon, also a retired Air Force veteran, has more than two decades of expertise in network security and vulnerability management. He now serves as an Information System Security Officer (ISSO) for the U.S. Space Force, where he continues to enhance national security protocols.
Chris, a Navy veteran with over ten years in IT, information assurance, and risk management, currently works at CompliancePoint . His roles include vCISO, RMF assessor, and consultant, focusing on enhancing data security and privacy for various organizations.
Daniel is an Air Force veteran with over 15 years of combined experience in IT, cybersecurity, information assurance, and government risk compliance. He has held various roles, including IT administrator, cybersecurity engineer, senior information system security manager, and currently serves as a senior security consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton. In this latest role, Daniel leverages his expertise to address unique and complex challenges in the cyber and IT domains, enhancing his customers’ capabilities.
**The Other Side of the Firewall podcast is a product of RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC . RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC is a premier Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) consultancy dedicated to supporting the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), Federal agencies, and corporate entities. We specialize in delivering expert guidance to ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance cybersecurity postures. RAM Cyber is pending SDVOSB, VOSB, and 8(a) certification by the SBA, underscoring our commitment to excellence and service.