MISAC Connect Audio

From the Floor: MISAC’s First-Time Conference Attendees

This episode of MISAC Connect Audio takes you inside the 2026 MISAC Annual Conference in Monterey for something a little different. Armed with a pair of microphones, we walked through the First-Time Conference Attendee gathering and handed the mic to MISAC members from agencies across California. What follows is intentionally raw and largely unedited — conversations happening around the room, background noise, raffle announcements, laughter, interruptions, and plenty of people who weren't expecting to suddenly find themselves on a podcast. The goal is simple: make you feel like you were there. You'll hear from first-time conference attendees about what brought them to MISAC and what they're hoping to get from their first Annual Conference — including making new connections, finding peers facing similar challenges, learning from other public agencies, exploring new technology, meeting industry partners, and attending sessions on topics ranging from AI and cybersecurity to GIS, governance, purchasing, infrastructure, and more. And because this is MISAC, a few longtime members and familiar faces take the microphone as well, sharing why they continue to come back and how the relationships built through MISAC can become such an important part of a career in public-sector technology. With roughly 70 first-time attendees at this year's conference, this gathering offered a great snapshot of the next group of members beginning to plug into the broader MISAC community. No studio. No formal interview setup. No heavy editing. Just conversations from the room as the 2026 MISAC Annual Conference gets underway. Welcome to Monterey — and welcome to MISAC. Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

Why Wi‑Fi Matters Again — with SmartWAVE Technologies

Wi‑Fi plays an increasingly important role in how cities serve their staff and communities. In this episode, Allen Hammond talks with Caroline Brown and Eric Holland of SmartWAVE Technologies about outdoor public networks, the continuing gap in home broadband access, and what it takes to refresh an indoor network for today’s mobile workforce. Drawing on the City of Pleasanton’s experience, they discuss Wi‑Fi at the sports park, aquatic park, and downtown; the demands of large events; and why dependable wireless connectivity matters in areas with poor cellular coverage. Allen also shares a conversation with the local school district that challenged his assumptions about students’ access to broadband at home. In this episode: Designing outdoor Wi‑Fi for coverage, capacity, and events The difference between broadband being available and a household being able to use it SmartWAVE’s community connectivity work, including San José and Council Bluffs What public Wi‑Fi can—and cannot—promise when cellular coverage is weak Rethinking indoor Wi‑Fi as staff move between home, meeting rooms, and office workspaces Why cabling, switches, power, and backhaul belong in a wireless refresh plan Where cities with limited budgets can start SmartWAVE Technologies is a MISAC strategic partner and has worked with the City of Pleasanton on its outdoor networks. Links SmartWAVE Technologies SmartWAVE blog feed — add the RSS feed to your feed reader for new posts Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

The Countdown to Monterey—and MISAC Connect in Your Pocket

The countdown to the 2026 MISAC Annual Conference is underway! In this solo update, we look ahead to MISAC’s largest Annual Conference yet, taking place September 27–30 in Monterey, and preview plans to capture short conversations with members during the conference for future episodes of MISAC Connect Audio. We also introduce the upgraded MISAC Connect platform and mobile app and highlight what’s hot in the forum—including Microsoft Publisher’s retirement, California Senate Bill 122, the evolving relationship between IT and Public Information functions, and experiences with managed security service providers. The episode also recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month and this year’s theme, “Unidos, Somos Más”—“Together, We Are More.” We close by congratulating MISAC member Rolland Kornblau, CGCIO, whose chapter in PTI’s CIO Leadership for Cities and Counties: Emerging Trends and Practices explores why change management has become an essential responsibility of the modern CIO. Chapters 00:00 Cold Open 00:35 The Countdown to Monterey Begins 02:55 MISAC Connect Is Now in Your Pocket 07:10 What’s Hot on MISAC Connect 12:55 Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month 15:15 MISAC Member Recognition: Rolland Kornblau 17:35 See You in Monterey Links Mentioned in This Episode Download MISAC Connect for iPhone and iPad Download MISAC Connect for Android The New Reality: When Technology Leadership Becomes Change Management Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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MISAC Summer Update: Chapter Meetings, Free MS-ISAC & Presidents Message

This episode of MISAC Connect Audio is another solo update focused on one of MISAC's biggest benefits: the value of the network. Allen recaps the recent Northern Chapter meeting at Raymond Vineyards in St. Helena, including a little wine-blending competition, and reflects on the value of getting local government IT professionals together to share common challenges, solutions, and lessons learned. Allen also recognizes the industry partners who helped make the Northern Chapter event possible — Tanium, Salesforce, ePlus, and SuccessMetrics — with a brief look at what each company brings to the public-sector technology community and why relationships with MISAC's industry partners matter. The episode also highlights an important cybersecurity opportunity for California public agencies: statewide MS-ISAC enrollment sponsored by Cal OES, which provides eligible agencies with access to cybersecurity resources, including threat intelligence, incident response and forensic support, a 24/7 Security Operations Center, and the MS-ISAC MemberConnect community. Allen then previews the 2026 MISAC Annual Conference, September 27–30 in Monterey, and calls attention to the unofficial Tee Off with MISAC golf event at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch on September 26. The episode closes with an audio adaptation of MISAC President Chris Skelly's Summer 2026 President's Message, including updates on AI, legislation, the new PTI partnership, upcoming MISAC education opportunities, and the importance of having a network of colleagues to learn from and lean on. Chapters 00:00 Opening Remarks and the Value of the MISAC Network 01:03 Northern Chapter at Raymond Vineyards 04:30 MISAC Industry Partner Spotlights 08:03 Why MISAC's Industry Partners Matter 09:42 Free MS-ISAC Enrollment Through Cal OES 12:41 2026 MISAC Annual Conference in Monterey 13:58 Tee Off with MISAC Golf Event 15:41 Chris Skelly's Summer 2026 President's Message 19:20 Closing Thoughts — The Strength of the MISAC Network Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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MISAC Connect Audio: Season 2 Returns — AI, Tahoe Summit, and Monterey Conference Preview

This episode of MISAC Connect Audio marks the return of the podcast for Season 2 with a solo update on current MISAC happenings. Allen highlights the GovAI and City of Santa Clara Strategic Partner Case Study webinar, shares President Chris Skelly’s Spring 2026 message to the membership, previews the upcoming MISAC Tahoe Summit, and reminds members about the 2026 MISAC Annual Conference in Monterey, including the Call for Presentations deadline of May 31. Allen also discusses the value of practical, real-world conversations within the MISAC community — especially around AI governance, cybersecurity, Zero Trust, local government technology leadership, and lessons learned from public-sector technology projects. Chapters 00:00 Opening Remarks and Season 2 Return 02:51 GovAI and City of Santa Clara Case Study Webinar 04:45 Future Deep Dive with Raj Singh and Willow Stuart 06:00 President Chris Skelly’s Spring 2026 Message 12:10 MISAC Tahoe Summit Preview 14:52 Tahoe Summit Vendor Presentation Highlights 18:31 2026 MISAC Annual Conference in Monterey 19:00 Call for Presentations Due May 31 20:40 Closing Thoughts and Welcome Back to Tim Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

MISAC Connect Audio: Weekly Report — Episode #3 | Post-Conference Wrap-Up

This episode of MISAC Connect Audio, hosted by Allen Hammond, provides a post-conference wrap-up and a weekly digest of MISAC Matter Highlights. It includes shout-outs to the conference committee, recognition of award recipients, and discussions on upcoming educational opportunities and hot topics from the MISAC Connect Forum. Chapters 00:00 Opening Remarks 01:39 Conference Highlights and Shout-Outs 05:00 Awards and Recognitions 10:48 Upcoming Educational Opportunities 17:00 Hot Topics from MISAC Connect Forum 19:30 MISAC Connect Forum Hot Topics: Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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BONUS EPISODE: Exploring UCaaS with Packet Fusion

BONUS PRE-CONFERENCE EPISODE In this conversation, Alex and Allen discuss the evolution and importance of Unified Communication as a Service (UCaaS) in the public sector. They explore the drivers for transitioning to UCaaS, the challenges faced by agencies with legacy systems, and the critical role of user adoption and change management in successful implementation. The discussion also highlights the significance of security and compliance, the need for a phased approach to migration, and the benefits of engaging knowledgeable partners like Packet Fusion to navigate the complexities of UCaaS transitions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Purpose 05:49 Understanding UCaaS and Its Importance 12:04 Drivers for Transitioning to UCaaS 17:40 Challenges and Considerations in UCaaS Migration 23:44 Evaluating Vendors and Making Informed Decisions 29:35 Understanding User Workflows for Successful UCaaS Implementation 30:57 Common Pitfalls in UCaaS Migration 34:16 Change Management and User Adoption Strategies 37:11 Data Security and Compliance in UCaaS 40:29 Phased Approach to UCaaS Transition 42:50 Benefits of Full UCaaS Transition 49:19 Getting Started with UCaaS Transition 51:02 Final Thoughts and Partnering for Success 52:43 Overview of Packet Fusion's Services Resources & Links: 📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link 📌 Connect with our guest: Packet Fusion - LinkedIn Alex Stanich – LinkedIn Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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Navigating VMware’s New Era: Guidance for Municipal IT Leaders with KIS

In this episode, Sean Canevaro and Matt Eickmann from KIS discuss VMware's current landscape and the impact of Broadcom's acquisition on licensing models. They explore the transition from perpetual to subscription models, the confusion it has caused among clients, and the importance of understanding the total cost of ownership. The conversation also touches on the future of virtualization, the role of cloud solutions, and how KIS aims to support clients in navigating these changes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties 04:07 Overview of KIS and Its Role 09:10 VMware and Broadcom: The Acquisition Impact 18:58 Subscription Model Transition and Client Reactions 28:59 The Debate on Subscription Software 30:44 Conclusion and Future Considerations 31:43 Navigating Budget Constraints and Client Control 38:12 Communicating IT Decisions to Stakeholders 44:38 Exploring Alternative Solutions in Virtualization 46:23 The Future of Virtualization and Cloud Solutions 53:10 Understanding KIS and Its Offerings Resources & Links: 📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link 📌 Connect with our guest: KIS - Keep IT Simple - LinkedIn Sean Canevaro – LinkedIn Matt Eickmann - LinkedIn Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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Exploring AI in Local Government with Ryen Nelsen

In this conversation, Ryen Nelsen, IT Security Manager for Mission Viejo, shares his journey in the field of AI and cybersecurity, discussing his role in local government and the importance of community engagement. He elaborates on the formation and objectives of the MISAC AI Task Force, highlighting promising applications of AI in local government, the challenges faced in its adoption, and the future of AI in the public sector. Ryen emphasizes the need for collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to integrating AI technologies to enhance public service. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 03:07 Career Journey and Community Engagement 05:46 AI in Cybersecurity and Local Government 11:51 The AI Task Force and Its Objectives 17:45 Promising Applications of AI in Local Government 24:38 Challenges in AI Adoption 31:23 Future of AI in Government 38:33 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Resources & Links: 📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link 📌 Connect with our guest: Ryen Nelsen (City of Mission Viejo) – LinkedIn Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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Meet Brad Walker - Pulling the Levers Behind MISAC's Curtain

In this conversation, Brad Walker, the Executive Director of MISAC, shares insights into his extensive career in association management, the evolution of MISAC, and the importance of engagement among members. He discusses the role of the Association Resource Center (ARC) in managing MISAC, the dynamics of the state board, and the growth of membership over the years. Brad emphasizes the value of strategic partnerships and the upcoming conference highlights. He also offers advice for new IT leaders and reflects on his achievements within the association. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Challenges 02:15 Brad Walker's Journey in Association Management 05:44 The Role of MISAC and ARC 09:48 Team Dynamics and Responsibilities 13:41 Evolution of MISAC and Membership Trends 19:30 Engagement Between New and Longtime Members 24:22 Future Priorities for MISAC 29:04 Strategic Partnerships and Vendor Relationships 35:22 Upcoming Conference Highlights 39:17 The Tahoe Summit and Its Unique Value 41:04 Advice for New IT Leaders 43:10 Achievements and Legacy Resources & Links: 📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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MISAC Connect Audio: Weekly Report — Episode #2 | Celebrating IT Professionals

In this episode of the Weekly Report, Allen Hammond discusses various topics relevant to the MISAC community, including technical challenges faced in podcasting, the importance of recognizing IT professionals, and the complexities of valuing municipal apps. He highlights community discussions on help desk policies, licensing issues with Broadcom VMware, and the need for reliable AV support for public meetings. The episode also covers Microsoft 365 backup solutions, the challenges of migrating to SharePoint, and upcoming MISAC events. Additionally, it features the Summer 2025 Newsletter with insights into GIS initiatives for public health, spotlighting MISAC member Shawn Smith and the developments of the AI Task Force. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Highlights 05:45 Celebrating IT Professionals 11:40 Help Desk Policies and Service Levels 17:26 After-Hours AV Support Challenges 23:32 Migrating to SharePoint and OneDrive 29:09 GIS and Public Health Initiatives 34:57 Member Highlight: Sean Smith 40:47 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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From the Air Force to City IT: Introducing Bayley Dycus

In this episode of MISAC Connect Audio, we welcome Bayley Dycus (City of San Ramon) as the newest host of our show and a member of the MISAC Communications Committee. We trace his 25‑year IT journey—from discovering networking in the U.S. Air Force through retail and state agencies to municipal service—and explore what drew him to public‑sector IT and keeps him passionate about enabling people through technology. Bayley talks about how he found MISAC, why he jumped into the Communications Committee (and now podcast hosting!), and his hope to make this show a go‑to resource for historical context, real‑world “right now” lessons, and forward‑looking conversations that help California’s municipal IT community drive the future instead of riding its waves. We close with a fun, rapid‑fire round: Can’t‑live‑without tech: Lansweeper for deployment, inventory, warranty tracking, and more Alternate career path: Motivational speaker—“I’ll talk to anyone about anything” Favorite way to recharge: Live music & community park concerts (burrito optional) Top podcast pick: Love Your Money with Hilary Hendershott (financial advice & operating‑system mindset) Resources & Links: 📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link 📌 Connect with Bayley Dycus (City of San Ramon) – LinkedIn Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

MISAC Connect Audio: Weekly — Episode #1

In this inaugural edition of MISAC Connect Audio: Weekly, we kick off a new series designed to supplement the longer-form MISAC Connect Audio interviews. This episode spotlights active forum discussions, highlights from the Tahoe Summit’s strategic partner presentations, an audio-narrated version of the Spring Quarterly Newsletter, and key announcements from the MISAC community. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 — Intro & What is MISAC Connect Weekly? 02:12 — Forum Highlights 08:33 — Strategic Partner Spotlights (Tahoe Summit Recap) 14:45 — Upcoming Events 16:30 — Narrated Spring 2025 Quarterly Newsletter 40:03 — Wrap-Up & What's Coming Next for MISAC Connect Audio Highlights include: Forum discussions on phishing simulation training, Microsoft EA renewals, MS-ISAC changes, Cloudflare, video editing tools, and POS/cashiering systems Recap of presentations from 101 Voice, Akamai, Cohesity, and ThinkGard at the 2025 Tahoe Summit Upcoming events: Microsoft Security Compliance & Identity training and the 2025 MISAC Excellence Award A narrated reading of the Spring 2025 MISAC Newsletter (including member highlights, website update efforts, CIO insights, and real stories of MISAC community impact) Stay tuned for more voices and content in future episodes! Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

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Beyond the Tools: Network & Systems Monitoring Best Practices

In this episode of MISAC Connect Audio, we take a deep dive into network and systems monitoring—focusing not just on the tools, but on the challenges, strategies, and best practices behind managing and securing modern networks. Building on a recent MISAC webinar, our guests Michael Tooma and Zachary Ruiz join me for a candid conversation about alert fatigue, incident escalation, historical data retention, monitoring virtual environments, and more. They share real-world insights from both large and small agencies, offering valuable perspectives on how to fine-tune monitoring systems for efficiency, reliability, and proactive problem-solving. Resources & Links: 📌 Watch the original MISAC Webinar: Best Management Tools to Configure and Secure Your Network – Member Only Archive Link 📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link 📌 Connect with our guests: Michael Tooma (City of Fresno) – LinkedIn Zachary Ruiz (Dublin San Ramon Services District) – LinkedIn Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

MISAC - The Origin Story

Welcome to MISAC Connect Audio: Your IT Community Podcast In this episode of the MISAC Connect Podcast, we sit down with Jeff Lewis, a lifetime member of MISAC and a former CIO for the cities of Modesto and Concord. Jeff shares his unique perspective on the organization's origins, diving into the "how," "what," and "when" of its founding. Key topics discussed in this episode: The driving forces behind the creation of MISAC. Early challenges and milestones in MISAC's history. Jeff’s role in advancing technology in local government. The values and vision that shaped MISAC into what it is today. Jeff also reflects on his decades-long career in municipal IT, sharing invaluable insights and lessons learned along the way. Whether you're an experienced MISAC member or just learning about the organization, this episode offers something for everyone. Listen now to learn about MISAC’s inspiring origin story and gain insights into its ongoing legacy! Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

First Episode! Meet our President, Miguel Guardado

Welcome to MISAC Connect Audio: Your IT Community Podcast In this inaugural episode of MISAC Connect Audio, host Allen Hammond interviews MISAC President Miguel Guardado about his career journey, involvement with MISAC, and the organization's future direction. This episode offers insights into MISAC's direction under Miguel's leadership and the benefits the organization provides its members across California. Some highlights include: Miguel's early interest in technology and the mentors who helped shape his career path led him to roles in the public sector. Miguel's entry into MISAC and the value he found in the collaborative community. Miguel discusses his journey to becoming MISAC President, his goals for supporting the regional chapters, and the importance of teamwork. MISAC's recent strategic planning efforts focused on priorities like AI, cybersecurity, and professional development. The upcoming MISAC Annual Conference in Monterey. Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

Welcome to MISAC Connect Audio: Your IT Community Podcast

Welcome to MISAC Connect Audio: Your IT Community Podcast Welcome to the trailer for MISAC Connect Audio! In this brief introduction, Allen Hammond, a 20+ year MISAC member, Communications Committee member, and North Chapter officer, introduces you to our new podcast designed to complement the MISAC Connect community forum. Discover what MISAC Connect Audio has in store for you as we dive deeper into the discussions that matter most to municipal IT professionals. Subscribe now to MISAC Connect Audio to stay updated on our latest episodes. Our first full episode featuring Miguel Guardado, MISAC President, is coming soon. Don’t miss out! Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.