TechnologyBusinessEntrepreneurship

CCN Conversations

Canadian Cybersecurity Network

CCN Conversations is the official podcast of the Canadian Cybersecurity Network, created to bring real voices and real experience directly to the cybersecurity community. Hosted by Francois Guay, founder of CCN, each episode opens the door to the people who are shaping how Canada protects, innovates, and grows.

This show brings you candid conversations with practitioners, CISOs, founders, researchers, builders, and rising talent from Canada and beyond. You will hear honest insight and stories that cut through noise and focus on what truly matters in security and technology today.

Whether you want to understand how modern security programs operate, learn what it takes to grow a cyber business, stay ahead of fast moving threats, or build a career that can thrive in a world of constant change, this is where you begin.

Welcome to the conversation.

Play

Open in

20 episodes
Avg 20 min
English

Episodes 20

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

#29
August 27 · 20 min
Before AI Comes the Foundation: Building AI-Ready IT with Rakesh Jayaprakash
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Rakesh Jayaprakash, Director of Product Management at ManageEngine, about what organizations need to get right before accelerating their adoption of AI. While businesses are moving quickly toward AI, cloud transformation, and automation, Rakesh explains why many organizations are discovering that their operational maturity has not kept pace with their ambitions. The conversation explores the IT foundations required to make AI useful, secure, and reliable, from configuration management and infrastructure visibility to governance, compliance, security, and data quality. Rakesh also discusses why organizations should start with business problems rather than AI solutions, how leaders can balance innovation with security, and why smaller, focused AI projects can provide a stronger path toward meaningful adoption. They also look at ManageEngine's approach to integrated IT management and what Canadian IT leaders, managers, and practitioners can expect from upcoming ManageEngine ITCON events in Quebec City and Vancouver. For organizations asking how to prepare for AI, this conversation offers a practical reminder: transformation starts with getting the foundations right. Listen now and join the conversation.
#28
July 7 · 19 min
Building Canada's Next Generation of Cybersecurity Talent | UNIT 7300
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with members of UNIT 7300, including Nathan Chan, Paul Kriukov, James Wang, Chelsea Kensall, and Michael Thomas. Founded in 2018, UNIT 7300 is a Canadian cybersecurity team dedicated to developing practical security skills through Capture the Flag competitions, bug bounty research, hands-on training, and collaborative problem solving. The conversation explores how the team was built, why collaboration has become one of its greatest strengths, and how members from diverse professional backgrounds have come together to continuously develop their cybersecurity expertise. They discuss mentorship, offensive security, continuous learning, teamwork, and the value of creating an environment where knowledge is openly shared instead of gatekept. The group also shares why curiosity, discipline, and hands-on experience are often more important than following a traditional path into cybersecurity. Whether you're an experienced practitioner, a student, or someone considering a career in cybersecurity, this episode offers valuable insight into how community, mentorship, and collaboration help build stronger cybersecurity professionals. Listen now and join the conversation.
#27
June 30 · 15 min
Why Great Cybersecurity Enables Business Growth with Michael Argast
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Michael Argast, CEO and Co-Founder of Kobalt, about entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, and why security should be viewed as a business enabler rather than a business blocker. Michael shares the story behind Kobalt, from an unexpected return from semi-retirement to building a company focused on helping small and mid-sized businesses strengthen their cybersecurity programs without requiring enterprise-sized budgets or teams. The conversation explores the challenges of building a cybersecurity startup, lessons learned from scaling a business, and why solving cybersecurity for SMBs remains one of the industry's biggest opportunities. Michael also discusses why security should accelerate innovation instead of slowing organizations down, the importance of networking for those entering cybersecurity, and why developing expertise in a specific area can help professionals stand out in a competitive industry. Whether you're building a business, growing your cybersecurity career, or helping organizations innovate securely, this episode offers practical advice for leaders and practitioners alike. Listen now and join the conversation.
#26
June 23 · 16 min
Why People, Process, and Culture Matter in Cybersecurity with David Shipley
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with David Shipley, CEO of Beauceron Security. David shares his unconventional journey into cybersecurity, from serving as a soldier and working as a newspaper reporter and digital marketer, to helping respond to a cyber incident at the University of New Brunswick and eventually building one of Canada's leading cybersecurity awareness companies. The conversation explores why cybersecurity is ultimately about people, process, and culture, not just technology. David discusses how organizations can better motivate people to make safer decisions, why traditional awareness programs often miss the mark, and how psychology, behavioral science, and engagement play a critical role in reducing cyber risk. They also discuss entrepreneurship, resilience, the realities of building a cybersecurity startup, career advice for newcomers, and why supporting Canadian cybersecurity innovation has never been more important. This episode is a thoughtful discussion about leadership, motivation, cybersecurity culture, and the future of Canada's cyber ecosystem. Listen now and join the conversation.
#25
June 16 · 22 min
Why Soft Skills Matter in Cybersecurity with Evgeniy Kharam
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with Evgeniy Kharam, cybersecurity strategist, solution architect, author, podcaster, and industry leader. Evgeniy shares his journey from quality assurance and firewall testing to becoming a solution architect responsible for helping organizations connect technologies, teams, and business objectives. The conversation explores the importance of breaking down silos, understanding organizational priorities, and translating cybersecurity concepts into language business leaders can understand. They discuss AI, asset visibility, shadow IT, cybersecurity awareness, communication, trust, and why soft skills are becoming just as important as technical expertise in today's cybersecurity landscape. Evgeniy also shares practical insights on storytelling, analogies, relationship building, and how security professionals can become more effective communicators and leaders. This episode is a must-listen for cybersecurity professionals, leaders, and anyone looking to bridge the gap between technology and business. Listen now and join the conversation.
#24
June 9 · 15 min
Digital Trust, AI, and the Future of Cybersecurity with Amisha Parikh
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Amisha Parikh, Vice President of Product Management, Cyber Intelligence Solutions at Mastercard. Amisha shares her journey into cybersecurity and discusses the growing importance of trust, collaboration, and innovation in an increasingly digital world. The conversation explores how organizations can move beyond viewing cybersecurity as a technical function and instead recognize it as a shared business responsibility. They discuss the role of AI in both enabling and combating cyber threats, the convergence of cybersecurity and fraud prevention, and why collaboration across industries is critical to building stronger defenses. Amisha also shares insights on Mastercard's investments in cybersecurity innovation, the importance of supporting small and medium-sized businesses, and advice for women considering careers in STEM and cybersecurity. This episode is a thoughtful discussion about trust, leadership, resilience, and the future of cybersecurity. Listen now and join the conversation.
#23
June 2 · 22 min
Building Resilient Security Cultures with Tim McCreight
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Tim McCreight, CEO and Founder of TaleCraft Security. With more than four decades in the security industry, Tim shares insights from his journey through physical security, cybersecurity leadership, enterprise risk management, and mentorship. The conversation explores the importance of storytelling in cybersecurity, explaining why security professionals must learn how to communicate risk in ways executives and organizations can understand. Tim also discusses enterprise security risk management (ESRM), the need for stronger collaboration across industries, and why organizations must move beyond compliance toward true resilience. Other topics include mentorship, curiosity, cybersecurity education, organizational culture, and the role community plays in helping the industry grow together. This episode is a thoughtful and practical discussion about leadership, communication, resilience, and the future of cybersecurity. Listen now and join the conversation.
#22
May 26 · 24 min
Why Governance Matters More Than Ever in the Age of AI with Shruti Mukherjee
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Shruti Mukherjee, Director of GRC, about the growing importance of governance, risk, and compliance in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape. Shruti shares her journey from software engineering into cybersecurity and GRC, highlighting how curiosity, adaptability, and continuous learning shaped her career. The conversation explores how cybersecurity has evolved beyond technical protection into a business-wide challenge centered around trust, governance, and operational resilience. Key topics include AI governance, checkbox compliance versus real security posture, continuous improvement, and why organizations must understand and protect their “crown jewels” as technology rapidly evolves. Shruti also discusses why strong governance structures are becoming critical as businesses adopt AI and other emerging technologies, emphasizing the need for proper guardrails, accountability, and risk management. This episode is a must-listen for leaders, practitioners, and organizations trying to navigate the intersection of cybersecurity, governance, AI, and business trust. Listen now and join the conversation.
#21
May 19 · 13 min
From Game Console Hacking to Cybersecurity Consulting with William Mailhot
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host François Guay speaks with William Mailhot about his unconventional path into cybersecurity and how curiosity, hands-on learning, and persistence shaped his career. William shares how his interest in hacking game consoles led him into programming, reverse engineering, malware analysis, and eventually cybersecurity consulting. The conversation explores the value of self-learning, technical curiosity, and practical experience, especially in an industry where traditional paths are not the only route to success. William also discusses the importance of networking, building projects, and developing both technical and communication skills to stand out in today’s cybersecurity job market. From developing dashboards that simplify security operations to helping organizations improve visibility across their environments, William highlights how technical depth combined with business understanding can create real impact. This episode is a strong reminder that cybersecurity careers are often built through experimentation, initiative, and the willingness to keep learning. Listen now and join the conversation.
#20
May 12 · 16 min
From Adversity to Impact: Building a Cybersecurity Career and Community with Jason McKeen
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Jason McKeen, Founder of BlackSwan Cyber Group. Jason shares a deeply personal and powerful story of resilience, from overcoming a difficult upbringing to building a career in cybersecurity and launching his own company. The conversation explores the realities of non-linear career paths, the importance of persistence, and the role community and mentorship play in long-term success. Jason also shares practical advice for those entering the field, emphasizing the importance of understanding your strengths, building meaningful connections, and putting in consistent effort to grow. A key theme throughout the discussion is the value of getting outside your comfort zone and embracing challenges as part of the journey. This episode is a reminder that success in cybersecurity is not defined by a perfect path, but by the willingness to keep going, keep learning, and help others along the way. Listen now and join the conversation.
#19
May 5 · 24 min
Digital Trust and the Future of Payments with Pamela Draper and Paul Twigg
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Pamela Draper, President of Digital Commerce Payments, and Paul Twigg, Chief Technology Officer at Digital Commerce Group. Together, they explore the evolving role of payments, digital banking, and trust in today’s financial ecosystem. The conversation highlights how money movement has shifted from traditional methods to real-time, digital-first systems, creating new expectations around speed, convenience, and security. Pamela and Paul share insights into how trust is built in financial systems, where even a single failure can have significant consequences. They also discuss the growing complexity of fraud, the role of AI in detecting patterns and anomalies, and why organizations must move beyond rule-based systems toward more adaptive, intelligence-driven approaches. The episode explores how cybersecurity is no longer just protection, but a requirement to participate in modern financial systems. This is a powerful conversation for anyone interested in payments, financial infrastructure, and the future of digital trust. Listen now and join the conversation.
#18
April 28 · 25 min
From OT to AI: A Non Linear Cybersecurity Journey | Junior Williams
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host François Guay speaks with Junior Williams about his unconventional journey into cybersecurity and the lessons learned along the way. From early exposure to operational technology and programming, to roles in IT, digital forensics, sales, and cybersecurity leadership, Junior’s path reflects a reality many professionals experience but rarely talk about. This conversation explores the value of non-linear careers, continuous learning, and the importance of building strong professional networks. Junior also shares his perspective on AI in the enterprise, highlighting how it expands the attack surface and introduces new types of insider risk, often driven by well-intentioned employees trying to move faster. The discussion dives into what effective cybersecurity awareness should look like, why traditional training often fails, and how personalization and real-world scenarios can drive better outcomes. Finally, Junior breaks down his “employability framework,” explaining why network, communication skills, and continuous learning matter more than traditional credentials. This episode is a powerful reminder that success in cybersecurity is not about following a perfect path, but about staying curious, adaptable, and connected. Listen now and join the conversation.
#17
April 21 · 21 min
Rethinking Cybersecurity: Moving Beyond Fear to Risk and Leadership with Michelle Balderson
Cybersecurity is often driven by urgency and fear. But is that the right approach? In this episode of CCN Conversations, François Guay speaks with Michelle Balderson about her journey through the industry and the perspectives she has gained along the way. Drawing from years of experience across teams, roles, and leadership environments, Michelle shares why cybersecurity needs to move beyond fear-based messaging and toward a clearer understanding of risk and leadership responsibility. The conversation explores how different teams shape your thinking, how leadership influences outcomes, and why communication and alignment are critical in cybersecurity. This is a grounded, experience-driven look at how the industry is evolving and where it needs to go next. Listen now and join the conversation.
#16
April 15 · 26 min
Why Quantum Will Reshape Cybersecurity Sooner Than We Think with Bruno Couillard
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Bruno Couillard, CEO and Co-Founder of Crypto4A Technologies. Bruno shares the origin story behind Crypto4A and the mission to prepare the digital world for a quantum future. Drawing from decades of experience in cryptography and secure systems, he explains why the shift to quantum safe security is not a distant concern, but a present-day challenge. The conversation explores how today’s digital economy is built on cryptographic trust, from financial transactions to critical infrastructure. As quantum computing advances, that foundation is at risk, requiring organizations to rethink how they secure data, systems, and communications. Bruno introduces the concept of crypto agility and explains why flexibility, adaptability, and long-term thinking are essential to staying secure in an evolving threat landscape. They also discuss the scale of the transition ahead, the difficulty of replacing legacy cryptographic systems, and why timelines set by global agencies should be taken seriously. This episode offers a powerful perspective on the future of cybersecurity, trust, and the responsibility organizations have to prepare for what comes next. Listen now and join the conversation.
#15
April 7 · 15 min
From Non-Technical to Cybersecurity: Sophia Kudlyk’s Journey
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Sophia Kudlyk about her journey into cybersecurity and what it really takes to break into the industry today. Sophia shares her non-traditional path into cyber, highlighting the challenges, doubts, and turning points that shaped her career. Her story reflects a reality many aspiring professionals face: there is no single “right” way into cybersecurity. The conversation explores the gap between how cybersecurity careers are often presented and what they actually look like in practice. Sophia emphasizes the importance of curiosity, persistence, and learning through experience rather than waiting to feel “ready.” They also discuss the role of community, mentorship, and visibility in helping people navigate the industry, especially those coming from non-technical or unconventional backgrounds. This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to break into cybersecurity, pivot their career, or better understand how real entry points into the industry actually work. Listen now and join the conversation.
#14
April 1 · 24 min
From Cold War to AI: A Cybersecurity Perspective with David Masson
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with David Masson of Darktrace. With decades of experience spanning from early computer network exploitation to today’s AI driven security landscape, David brings a rare long term perspective on how cybersecurity has actually evolved. The conversation explores how cyber threats have shifted from supporting operations to becoming the primary attack vector, and why many organizations are still struggling to keep up. A key theme throughout the episode is the industry’s reliance on reactive security. David challenges the idea that solutions should come after damage, and highlights the need to move toward real time detection and response. They also dive into how AI is truly being used in cybersecurity today. Not just large language models, but a broader set of technologies that detect change, identify threats, and support human decision making at scale. The discussion also covers the growing risks around critical infrastructure and operational technology, where increasing connectivity is introducing new vulnerabilities across essential systems. Finally, David shares his perspective on talent in cybersecurity, emphasizing that technical skills alone are not enough. Curiosity, communication, and problem solving are just as critical for success. This episode is a strong reminder that cybersecurity is not new, but the way we approach it still needs to evolve. Listen now and join the conversation.
#13
March 24 · 20 min
Why Trust Is the Foundation of Cybersecurity and Manufacturing with Jayson Myers
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Jayson Myers, CEO of Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen). Jayson shares insights from his experience leading one of Canada’s most important innovation organizations, focused on advancing manufacturing capabilities across the country. The conversation explores Canada’s position in advanced manufacturing, highlighting a critical gap between innovation and adoption. While Canada produces world class technologies and research, many organizations struggle to fully implement and operationalize them. They also discuss the role of cybersecurity in modern manufacturing environments, where digital systems, AI, and interconnected supply chains introduce new risks. Jayson emphasizes that cybersecurity is not just a technical issue, but a strategic business priority built on trust. The discussion also covers workforce readiness, the importance of collaboration across ecosystems, and why organizations must align technology investments with business objectives to remain competitive globally. This episode is essential listening for leaders, innovators, and organizations navigating the intersection of cybersecurity, manufacturing, and digital transformation. Listen now and join the conversation.
#12
March 17 · 12 min
From English Lit to Cybersecurity Founder with Tracey Nyholt
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with Tracey Nyholt, founder and CEO of TechJutsu. Tracey shares her unconventional path into cybersecurity, beginning with an English literature degree and working her way into the industry by teaching herself technical skills and learning through hands on experience. The conversation explores the founding of TechJutsu, a Calgary based cybersecurity company focused on identity and access management and solving one of the most overlooked attack vectors in organizations today: help desk authentication. Tracey explains how attackers exploit call centers to reset passwords and bypass security controls, and how her team developed technology to protect against those attacks. Francois and Tracey also discuss the realities of building a cybersecurity company, including scaling into international markets, navigating emerging technologies like AI and quantum, and the importance of listening to customers when developing security products. The episode also highlights career development in cybersecurity, the importance of communication skills, and lessons for aspiring founders entering the industry. Listen now and join the conversation.
#11
March 10 · 17 min
Curiosity, Community, and Creating Opportunity in Cybersecurity with Julien Richard
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Julien Richard, Vice President of Information Security at Lastwall. Julien shares his journey into cybersecurity more than two decades ago, long before the field was widely recognized. From early work in FinTech and network administration to leadership in security, his career highlights the role curiosity and persistence play in building expertise. The conversation explores the importance of mentorship, community building, and why curiosity and a thirst for knowledge are often more valuable than technical skills alone. Julien also discusses his work helping build cybersecurity communities in Atlantic Canada and his involvement in initiatives that bring policymakers and practitioners together to better inform cybersecurity policy. Francois and Julien also dive into career development in cybersecurity, including how authenticity, curiosity, and preparation can help professionals stand out in a competitive job market. This episode offers practical advice for anyone entering the cybersecurity field, along with insight into how community and policy influence the future of the industry. Listen now and join the conversation
#10
March 3 · 26 min
Networking, AI, and the Reality of Getting Hired in Cybersecurity with Anthony Green
In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with Anthony Green, CISO Consultant, Educator, and Founder of Green Hat Security. Anthony shares his journey from building computers and hacking FarmVille as a teenager to leading ISACA Vancouver as one of its youngest presidents. The conversation explores the power of networking, community involvement, and how leadership roles shaped his professional growth. They also dive deep into the realities of entering cybersecurity today. Anthony explains why school alone is not enough, why certifications and personal projects matter, and why networking can be the deciding factor between landing a job and being overlooked. The episode tackles AI’s impact on productivity and the widening skill gap, critical thinking in the next generation of professionals, and why managers must learn how to properly train junior talent. If you are a student, hiring manager, mentor, or cybersecurity professional navigating today’s evolving landscape, this conversation is packed with practical insight. Listen now and join the conversation.

Showing 1–20 of 20 episodes