Bites & Bytes Podcast
Bites and Bytes Podcast explores cybersecurity, technology, and beyond in the food industry. Discover the exciting world where cybersecurity, technology, and the food industry converge on the Bites and Bytes Podcast. As one of the few shows focusing on cybersecurity in the food sector, we offer unique insights and groundbreaking discussions. Our interview-style chats and in-depth discussions reveal the challenges and innovations at the intersection of digital defenses, food protection, and systems thinking. Everything is interconnected, whether through technology, natural cycles, or systems. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or passionate about safeguarding our food supply, please tune in for conversations illuminating this dynamic and evolving field!
Listen on:
Meet Your Host
Kristin Demoranville
is far from your ordinary cybersecurity expert; she spices up over 25 years of tech and security expertise with a rich palette of experiences in the food industry. Kristin has done everything from safeguarding food manufacturing and supply chains to sharing laughs over the bar as a bartender, serving up smiles as a server, and crafting the perfect cup as a coffee barista. Her adventures even took her to the National Zoo commissary, where she fed various wildlife, adding an exceptional flavor to her culinary journey.
This unique combination of high-level professional knowledge and grassroots food and beverage experience establishes Kristin as a distinctly approachable voice in cybersecurity. She doesn't just understand the food industry from a technical standpoint; she's lived it, from the critical nuances of digital security to the hustle and hospitality of food service and even the unique challenge of catering to zoo inhabitants. Her perspectives are deeply rooted in practical reality, offering a rich, layered view of the importance of food safety in our increasingly digital world.
Listeners tuning into Kristin's narratives will gain a treasure trove of cybersecurity insights and be treated to captivating stories from her and her guests. Kristin excels in weaving together the threads of technology, security, and culinary delight, drawing in a broad audience to underscore the critical need to shield our food systems from the looming shadow of digital threats. Her genuine connection with guests—melding professional insights with personal rapport—sparks enlightening dialogues that shed light on the vital confluence of tech, security, and food.
Episodes
Sunday Apr 07, 2024
Sunday Apr 07, 2024
In this engaging episode of the Bites and Bytes Podcast, we welcome Carl 'CJ' Unis, a Systems Engineer with the U.S. Space Force and Principal at Unis Complexity Solutions. CJ brings over 20 years of expertise in systems engineering and infrastructure logistics to our conversation. He illuminates the critical role of systems thinking in enhancing cybersecurity within the food industry. His background includes analyzing cascading infrastructure failures for the Department of Homeland Security at Sandia National Laboratories and serving as a federal agent for the Department of Energy. Not to mention, CJ's experience in the U.S. Marine Corps adds a unique perspective to his insights.
This episode was pre-recorded in January 2024 and predates the current critical infrastructure incidents or challenges highlighted in recent media. CJ's insights offer a proactive perspective and underscore the strategic importance of resilience in system thinking, providing a valuable lens to view and address the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Episode Key Highlights:
(00:29 - 01:24) System Engineering and Food Cybersecurity
(08:56 - 11:07) Food and Cyber Security Risks
(13:47 - 15:40) Rapid Technological Advancement in 2024
(18:01 - 18:46) Cybersecurity Impact on Food Industry
(23:22 - 25:03) Understanding Natural Cycles and Engineering
(29:06 - 31:12) Systems Thinking in Risk Management
(32:19 - 33:36) Food Industry's Wide-Reaching Impact
(37:48 - 39:37) Universal Industry Problems
(43:16 - 44:02) Unsung Heroes of Everyday Life
(45:38 - 47:06) Insider Threat and Vulnerability Analysis
How to connect with CJ: LinkedIn and Contact Card
Course CJ teaches: “Systems Thinking in Emergency Management.”
Article CJ co-authored: “Rethinking Future Food Chains: Systems Thinking and the Cascading Consequences of System Failure."
Research Paper CJ co-authored: “Building Food System Resilience within a Learning Organization.”
Systems Thinking Alliance
Additional Show notes and guest inquiry information are on the Bites and Bytes Website.
If you want to learn more about AnzenOT, please check the website or reach out on LinkedIn.
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Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
In this episode of Bites and Bytes Podcast, we're joined by Scott Algeier, an influential figure navigating the crucial intersection of cybersecurity, IT, policy, and operations. As the founder of Conrad, Inc. and the executive director for IT-ISAC and Food and Ag-ISAC (Information Sharing and Analysis Center), Scott brings unparalleled expertise in building bridges between organizations to help fortify their defenses against cyber threats.
Holding a Master’s degree in International Relations and European Studies from the University of Kent and an honors graduate from Gettysburg College, Scott’s journey into cybersecurity is as unique as it is inspiring. This episode explores the foundational stories behind the Food and Ag ISAC and IT-ISAC and highlights the pivotal role of cross-industry information sharing in building a resilient cybersecurity infrastructure.
Engage with us in this compelling dialogue that offers a deep dive into the mechanisms of securing our critical agricultural infrastructure through collective effort and strategic partnerships. Learn about the innovative measures Scott Algeier is spearheading to safeguard our food and agriculture sectors from cyber threats, ensuring a secure future for all. Join us for an exploration of how thoughtful collaboration and expert leadership are shaping the future of cybersecurity in agriculture, making our world safer, one byte at a time.
Key Episode Highlights:
(02:44 - 03:44) Formation of Food and Ag-ISAC
(05:48 - 06:53) Memorable Food Experiences and Recommendations
(12:13 - 14:02) Sharing Cybersecurity Insights With Smaller Businesses
(23:54 - 24:37) Importance of Collaboration With Academia
(28:44 - 30:25) Long-Term Success in Cybersecurity Industry
(31:22 - 32:35) Community and Security in IT
Learn More:
Food and Ag-ISAC
IT-ISAC
Connect with Scott on LinkedIn
Scott's company, Conrad, Inc.
Also, connect with Scott at RSAConference 2024 for his panel discussion
Water Sector discussion information:
EPA calls off cyber regulations for water sector
Cyberattacks are hitting water systems throughout US, Biden officials warn governors
White House Convenes States to Discuss Water Sector Breaches
🎉 NEW Bites and Bytes Podcast Website!! 🎉
For those who have been asking how to support the show, a donation tip jar is on the main page and about the show page. Thank you for all your support!
Wicked6 Cyber Games | 2024 Women's Global Cyber League
Learn more: https://www.wicked6.com/
Register and use promo code W6SPEAKERVIP to save $5
WICKED6 is back for its fourth year, and it's packed with speaker sessions, career networking, cyber challenges, and a tournament that will have you on the edge of your seat. It's not just an event; it's a community, a learning experience, and a lot of fun!
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Join us on the Bites and Bytes Podcast as we explore the impact of artificial intelligence on cybersecurity in the food industry with Dr. Ryan Heartfield. With a distinguished career that spans roles at Splunk, the UK Government, and groundbreaking research at the University of Greenwich, Dr. Heartfield is at the forefront of AI-driven cyber-physical solutions. This episode discusses how these technologies are essential in protecting our food supply chain from cyber threats and using AI to address more than cyber incidents. Dr. Heartfield shares insights from his work at Exalens, highlighting the importance of innovative cybersecurity in ensuring the safety and integrity of our food systems.
Key Episode Highlights:
(02:52 - 03:51) Tech Support and Wi-Fi at Olympics
(05:43 - 07:02) Pizza Preferences and Controversies
(13:06 - 14:52) AI-driven Research for Cybersecurity Challenges
(18:48 - 19:49) AI in Food Safety
(22:28 - 24:09) Industrial Control Technologies Explained
(25:44 - 27:29) Holistic Approach to Cybersecurity in Industry
(30:34 - 31:55) Advanced Monitoring Systems in Industrial Processes
(35:24 - 36:16) Building Psychophysical Monitoring Technology
(38:41 - 39:46) AI Analyst Enhances Network Security
(44:12 - 45:36) IoT Refrigerators and Food Safety
Connect with Dr. Ryan Heartfield:
Learn more about his work: Exalens
Follow him on LinkedIn: Ryan Heartfield
Join the Free Community Edition of Exalens
Connect with your host, Kristin, on LinkedIn
Connect on the Bites and Bytes Podcast website
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
In Part 2 of our Bites & Bytes Podcast series, we continue our enriching discussion with Dr. Darin Detwiler, highlighting the essential themes of courage, overcoming shame, and maintaining integrity within the food industry regardless of your role. This episode not only focuses on technological innovations and strategies for food safety but also delves into the personal and ethical dimensions that drive industry leaders to champion security measures in the face of emerging digital threats. Join us for this impactful conversation that goes beyond the technical aspects, touching on the human elements critical to advancing food safety and security in today's digital world.
Key Episode Highlights:
(01:06 - 03:12) Food Safety and Technology Monitoring
(11:13 - 12:11) Intentional Acts in Food Safety
(19:07 - 20:04) Unregistered Food Plants in Texas
(24:28 - 25:18) Corporate Responsibility and Reputation
(31:37 - 33:18) Food Safety and Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities
How to connect with Dr. Darin:
Visit his Website
Visit his University Page
Connect on LinkedIn
Watch the Netflix Documentary, "Poisoned"
Connect with your host, Kristin, on LinkedIn
Connect on the Bites and Bytes Podcast website
Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
Welcome to Part 1 of our enlightening episode, where we delve into the intricate world of food safety and cybersecurity. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Darin Detwiler, a “food safety icon,” professor, and leading food policy and safety expert.
In this episode, Dr. Detwiler shares his personal stories and insights, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the digital threats to our food supply. From his favorite food memories to his professional journey, he opens up about the challenges and complexities of ensuring the safety of our food in an increasingly digital world.
Key Episode Highlights:
(03:35 - 04:20) Retro Salad Nostalgia
(08:55 - 10:35) Food Safety and Consumer Perspectives
(13:30 - 14:13) Identifying Food Allergy Triggers
(18:17 - 19:29) Challenges in Food Safety Investigations
(25:48 - 27:10) Data Management for Disaster Prevention
How to connect with Dr. Darin:
Visit his Website
Visit his University Page
Connect on LinkedIn
Watch the Netflix Documentary, "Poisoned"
Connect with your host, Kristin, on LinkedIn
Connect on the Bites and Bytes Podcast website