
Where to Listen to CyberSoundTM
Most Recent Episode
Building Hartford’s AI Workforce and Tech Future
What does it take to turn a post-industrial city into an AI-ready innovation hub? In this episode of CyberSound, we’re joined by Jeff Auker, Director of Development Services for the City of Hartford, to talk about how the city is reshaping its future, one workforce investment at a time.
From transforming a decaying facility into a collaborative AI center to designing programs that bring tech training to underserved communities, Jeff shares Hartford’s bold vision for inclusion, development, and digital opportunity. Plus, hear how public-private partnerships, workforce programs, and even synthetic data could shape the future of AI governance and safety testing in Connecticut.

Meet the Hosts of CyberSoundTM
Most Recent Episodes
Podcast Episode 132
Building Hartford’s AI Workforce and Tech Future
What does it take to turn a post-industrial city into an AI-ready innovation hub? In this episode of CyberSound, we’re joined by Jeff Auker, Director of Development Services for the City of Hartford, to talk about how the city is reshaping its future, one workforce investment at a time.
From transforming a decaying facility into a collaborative AI center to designing programs that bring tech training to underserved communities, Jeff shares Hartford’s bold vision for inclusion, development, and digital opportunity. Plus, hear how public-private partnerships, workforce programs, and even synthetic data could shape the future of AI governance and safety testing in Connecticut.
Podcast Episode 131
Cybersecurity in Higher Ed: Columbia University on IT Decentralization and Governance
Colleges and universities face unique cybersecurity challenges, especially when IT is decentralized. In this CyberSound episode, Eric Baumgart, Director of Cybersecurity at Columbia University, shares how his team manages risk across a complex academic environment. From handling shadow IT and enclave networks to building trust across departments (sometimes with cookies), Eric offers practical insight into governance, compliance, and securing diverse user groups in higher ed.
Podcast Episode 130
Paul Lavoie on Manufacturing’s Future and Workforce Training in Connecticut
In this episode of CyberSound, Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer Paul Lavoie joins Jason Pufahl, Steve Maresca, and Michael Grande to discuss the urgent need for cybersecurity adoption among manufacturers. They explore the state’s approach to workforce development and the critical role of innovation in maintaining a competitive edge. From new funding initiatives supporting CMMC certification to K–12 STEM engagement through FIRST Robotics, and preparing workers for AI-integrated production environments, Paul shares how Connecticut is helping manufacturers modernize, train talent, and build long-term resilience in a rapidly evolving industry.
Podcast Episode 129
What Teens Aren’t Learning About Cybersecurity—And Why It Matters
In this episode of CyberSound, Jason Pufahl and Steve Maresca sit down with John Madura, Technology Education Chair at The Morgan School, to explore how cybersecurity is being taught (or overlooked) in high schools. They dive into why students often see digital behavior differently from real-world ethics, how hands-on learning can close that gap, and the growing interest in courses like data science and cybersecurity. With real stories from the classroom and insight into student motivations, this episode sheds light on the importance of building digital citizenship from the ground up.
Podcast Episode 128
AI Business Value: Exploring Real-World Applications Beyond ChatGPT
In this episode of CyberSound, Jason Pufahl, Steve Maresca, and Michael Grande cut through the AI hype to explore how businesses can use tools like large language models for real-world impact. From model selection and prompt engineering to integrating with existing systems and avoiding inaccurate or misleading outputs, they offer a practical look at applying AI effectively—well beyond chatbots.
Podcast Episode 127
Ransomware Attack Timeline: A Walkthrough of the Disruption
Step inside the chaos of a real ransomware attack. In this episode of CyberSound, Vancord’s experts break down the timeline of a ransomware incident—from initial compromise to full recovery. Discover how threat actors move, what response steps matter most, and what it really takes to manage the disruption. This isn’t theory—this is a behind-the-scenes look at what actually happens when a ransomware attack hits.
Podcast Episode 126
Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Modern Day Best Practices
In this episode of CyberSound, Jason Pufahl, Steve Maresca, and Michael Grande revisit foundational cybersecurity practices—what’s still essential, what’s evolved, and what’s next. From patching and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to security awareness training, backups, and endpoint detection and response (EDR), the trio discusses what has become the baseline for today’s security posture and how these practices continue to shift.
Think of it as a “smoke alarm battery check” for your cybersecurity strategy. With attackers growing more sophisticated, they emphasize why refining controls, validating what’s already in place, and leveling up your efforts is critical for staying ahead.
Podcast Episode 125
23andMe Bankruptcy: What Happens to Your Data? | CyberSound Rewind
With 23andMe’s recent bankruptcy filing, questions about what happens to your genetic data are more pressing than ever. Jason Pufahl and Michael Grande dive into the company’s infamous data breach, the implications of exposed genetic information, and steps you can take to protect—or delete—your data. Along with Rob McWilliams and Brian Brehart, they explore user responsibility, password reuse, and whether companies like 23andMe should enforce stronger security measures.
Podcast Episode 124
Understanding Secure Business Networking with Tailscale’s VPN Solutions
Traditional VPNs can be complex, but Tailscale is changing the game. In this episode, Alex Kretzschmar, Head of Developer Relations at Tailscale, joins Jason Pufahl, Michael Grande, and Dylan Marquis to explore how Tailscale’s modern VPN solution simplifies secure remote access, enhances Zero Trust networking, and improves business security.
Tune in to learn how businesses can adopt a more secure and efficient networking approach without the hassle of traditional VPNs.
Podcast Episode 123
Streamlining Cybersecurity Compliance with ControlMap
Compliance challenges are growing, but automation and AI can help. In this episode, Dan Fox, Co-Founder of ControlMap, joins Jason Pufahl, Steve Maresca, and Michael Grande to discuss how businesses can simplify compliance with SOC 2, ISO 27001, NIST CSF, CMMC, and 60+ frameworks. They explore how AI-driven insights reduce audit fatigue, improve risk management, and streamline cybersecurity processes.
Tune in to learn how organizations can leverage automation, risk assessments, and cybersecurity best practices to stay compliant and reduce risk.