Bites & Bytes Podcast

• Cybersecurity Shouldn’t Suck: Fixing the Real Problems with Tom Sego

  What happens when cyber threats hit critical infrastructure? In this episode of the Bites and Bytes Podcast, host Kristin Demoranville sits down with Tom Sego, a cybersecurity leader with a fascinating background from chemical engineering to Apple to professional poker, now focused on making security simpler and more effective for critical infrastructure as CEO at Blastwave. Cyber risks in critical industries are real, but so are the solutions. Kristin and Tom discuss why current security models create more problems than they solve, how the human element is often overlooked, and what needs to change to make security actually work for the people keeping our systems running. 🔎 In this episode, we unpack: ✅ How cyber threats can disrupt production & cold storage 🚜❄️ ✅ Why critical infrastructure sectors struggle with cybersecurity adoption 🛑 ✅ The AI-powered cyber threats targeting supply chains 🤖💥 ✅ The human side of security—trust, simplicity, and keeping people safe 🛡️ ✅ Why passwords are outdated and cause more harm than good ✅ How security teams can build trust instead of friction ✅ And yes… we also talk about wine, food obsessions, and French pastries 🍷🥐 Whether you’re in OT, security, or just sick of cybersecurity being unnecessarily complicated, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and real solutions. _______________________________________________ 🎯 Episode Key Highlights 00:00:20) - Introduction to the Episode & Guest: Tom Sego (00:01:20) - Guest’s Favorite Food & Food Memories (00:05:54) - Tom Sego’s Background & Career Journey (00:09:23) - The Ukraine Electric Grid Hack: A Pivotal Moment for Tom (00:10:51) - The Importance of OT Security & Community Building (00:11:26) - How Tom & Kristin Met – A Conversation Over Wine (00:14:43) - Why Tom Founded BlastWave & His Mission (00:16:21) - The Human Factor in Cybersecurity & Biggest OT Risks (00:19:17) - The Future of Cyber Threats in OT & Supply Chains (00:24:04) - Mid-Episode Break: Celebrating 8,000 Downloads! (00:26:07) - Why Farmers & Food Producers Struggle with Cybersecurity (00:32:46) - Real-World Cold Storage Cybersecurity Risks (00:37:50) - How AI is Impacting Cybersecurity & Attack Strategies (00:40:39) - Cyber-Physical Security & Real-World Consequences (00:42:27) - Trust in Cybersecurity: Why It’s Critical for OT (00:43:26) - Final Takeaways: Tom’s Advice for Staying Secure (00:44:31) - The Role of AI in Cybersecurity: Opportunities & Risks (00:45:17) - Outro & Closing Remarks _______________________________________________ Show Notes 🔹 Cyber-Attack Against Ukrainian Critical Infrastructure: https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/ics-alerts/ir-alert-h-16-056-01 🔹 Zim Ketter’s Wired Magazine Article about Ukraine’s Power Grid Hack: https://www.wired.com/2016/03/inside-cunning-unprecedented-hack-ukraines-power-grid/ 🔹 Port of Beirut, Lebanon ammonium nitrate explosion: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7985624/ _______________________________________________ Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 2025 Stakeholders Summit If you enjoyed our episode on agroterrorism and cyber threats to farms featuring the Animal Agriculture Alliance, here’s another opportunity to explore critical conversations about our food system. And if you haven’t listened yet, check it out here: 🎙 Episode Link: Agroterrorism & Cyber Threats – How Farms Are Under Attack 📢 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify The 2025 Stakeholders Summit, happening April 30 – May 2 in Arlington, VA, will bring together industry leaders from farms, food processing, retail, and more to discuss sustainability and the future of animal agriculture. This year’s theme, “Food for Thought: Dishing on Sustainability,” focuses on collaboration and innovation to shape the future of food production. Reserve your seat at the table—register by April 25! 🔗 Learn more and register: 2025 Stakeholders Summit 🔗 About the Animal Agriculture Alliance: AnimalAgAlliance.org _______________________________________________ Wicked6 is about women coming together to play cyber games and learn about careers in cybersecurity. 🔥 March 28-30, 2025 – a three-day, global, virtual Hack & Chat event where women worldwide come together to play cyber games, compete, learn, and connect. 💡 We’ve got international speakers, technical talks, hands-on workshops, and of course…the GAMES!  Think Capture the Flag, Attack & Defend, and a high-stakes team tournament—all virtually streamed LIVE! ✨ Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s a game for you.  Plus, there’s networking, prizes, merch, and so much more! 💻 Sign up now at Wicked6.com, and let’s LEVEL UP together! 🔥💪 🎤 Want to share your story?  Call for speakers & technical workshops is OPEN! 📹 Ever wonder what cybersecurity careers look like?  Submit a “Day in the Life” video! 🙌 Passionate about supporting women in cyber?  Join us as a volunteer or referee! 🤝 And companies—be a sponsor!  Help empower the next generation of women in cybersecurity. 🚀 Attack & Defense Call for Volunteers – Help design the next big challenge!  If you’re a seasoned challenge developer, step up and create a mind-bending cyber challenge for the competition. Just remember—developers can’t compete! 🤯🔐  Sign up here: 🔗 Volunteer Form 🌍 Meet the Wicked6 2025 Advisory Board! This powerhouse team of women is driving the mission forward, building an event that’s about competition, connection, and career growth. Get to know them here: 🔗 Advisory Board  - you will see your Bites and Bytes Podcast host there! _______________________________________________ Bites and Bytes Podcast Info: Website: Explore all our episodes, articles, and more on our official website.  Visit Now Merch Shop: Show your support with some awesome Bites and Bytes gear! 🧢👕 Shop Now Blog: Stay updated with the latest insights and stories from the world of cybersecurity in the food industry.  Read Our Blog Audience Survey: We value your feedback!  Help us make the podcast even better.  Take the Survey Schedule a Call with Kristin: Want to share your thoughts?  Schedule a meeting with Kristin!  Schedule Now Socials:  TikTok; Instagram; LinkedIn

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• Agroterrorism & Cyber Threats: How Farms Are Under Attack

  📢 Listener Advisory: This episode discusses unsettling topics, including terrorism, animal harm, cult-like groups, radical activism, and threats to food security. Listener discretion is advised. What happens when terrorism targets the food we eat?  In this eye-opening episode of Bites and Bytes Podcast, we explore agroterrorism—the deliberate targeting of farms, livestock, and food supply chains to incite fear, economic damage, or ideological change. Joining host Kristin Demoranville are three leading experts in agriculture, risk management, and security: 👩‍🌾 Hannah Thompson-Weeman – President & CEO of the Animal Agriculture Alliance, Hannah is a leading voice in protecting animal agriculture from activist threats and misinformation.  She has dedicated her career to connecting the food supply chain and defending farms against radical actors. 📜 Michael Urbanik – Insurance and risk management expert at R.K. Tongue Co., Inc., Michael works closely with businesses to understand their vulnerabilities and create protection strategies against emerging threats, including agroterrorism and cybercrime. 🌎 Andrew Rose - A Bites and Bytes Podcast repeat guest, Andrew is a visionary AgFuturist and cybersecurity strategist. He is focused on mitigating threats to agriculture that are generations ahead of their time. As an advisor to BIO-ISAC and an expert in food and climate security, he brings a crucial perspective on the evolving risks to our food systems. 🛑 Who should listen? Farmers & Ranchers – Protect your livelihood from security threats. Food Industry Professionals – Learn about supply chain risks and disruptions. Cybersecurity & Risk Experts – Understand the intersection of cybercrime and agriculture. Policy Makers & Regulators – Gain insights into the evolving threats to food security. Concerned Consumers – Get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep our food supply safe. 🔍 In this episode, we discuss: What agroterrorism is (and what it isn’t) How extremist groups are infiltrating farms and food supply chains The role of cyberattacks in disrupting agriculture The impact of activism, misinformation, and social engineering on food production Best practices for protecting farms and food systems Real-world examples of agroterrorist incidents and their consequences Food security is national security.  Join us for a gripping discussion on why agriculture is under attack—and what we can do to defend it. _______________________________________________ Episode Key Highlights (0:08:09) - What is Agroterrorism?  (0:11:56) - Economic and Social Impact (0:16:42) - Detection Challenges (0:19:16) - Cybersecurity’s Role (0:23:36) - Radical Activism (0:25:03) - Protective Measures for Farmers (0:29:20) - Do We Have the Right Skills? (0:33:38) - Real Agroterrorism Cases (0:38:59) - Cyberbullying & Threats (0:42:22) - Mental Health Toll (0:50:20) - How Cyber Experts Can Help (1:00:15) - Final Thoughts _______________________________________________ Show Notes: FBI Definition of Agroterrorism: https://leb.fbi.gov/articles/featured-articles/agroterrorism-threats-to-americas-economy-and-food-supply#:~:text=A%20subset%20of%20bioterrorism%2C%20agroterrorism,from%20four%20categories%20of%20perpetrators. Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA) https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-markets-financial-institutions-and-fiscal-service/federal-insurance-office/terrorism-risk-insurance-program Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act: https://www.congress.gov/109/plaws/publ374/PLAW-109publ374.pdf _______________________________________________ Wicked6  is about women coming together to play cyber games and learn about careers in cybersecurity. 🔥 March 28-30, 2025 – a three-day, global, virtual Hack & Chat event where women worldwide come together to play cyber games, compete, learn, and connect. 💡 We’ve got international speakers, technical talks, hands-on workshops, and, of course…the GAMES!  Think Capture the Flag, Attack & Defend, and a high-stakes team tournament—all virtually streamed LIVE! ✨ Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s a game for you.  Plus, there’s networking, prizes, merch, and so much more! 💻 Sign up now at Wicked6.com, and let’s LEVEL UP together! 🔥💪 🎤 Want to share your story?  Call for speakers & technical workshops is OPEN! 📹 Ever wonder what cybersecurity careers look like?  Submit a “Day in the Life” video! 🙌 Passionate about supporting women in cyber?  Join us as a volunteer or referee! 🤝 And, companies—be a sponsor!  Help empower the next generation of women in cybersecurity. 🚀 Attack & Defense Call for Volunteers – Help design the next big challenge!  If you’re a seasoned challenge developer, step up and create a mind-bending cyber challenge for the competition. Just remember—developers can’t compete! 🤯🔐 Sign up here: 🔗 Volunteer Form 🌍 Meet the Wicked6 2025 Advisory Board! This powerhouse team of women is driving the mission forward—building an event that’s about competition, connection, and career growth. Get to know them here: 🔗 Advisory Board  - you will see your Bites and Bytes Podcast host there! _______________________________________________ Bites and Bytes Podcast Info: Website:  Explore all our episodes, articles, and more on our official website.  Visit Now Merch Shop:  Show your support with some awesome Bites and Bytes gear! 🧢👕 Shop Now Blog:  Stay updated with the latest insights and stories from the world of cybersecurity in the food industry.  Read Our Blog Audience Survey:  We value your feedback!  Help us make the podcast even better.  Take the Survey Schedule a Call with Kristin:  Want to share your thoughts?  Schedule a meeting with Kristin!  Schedule Now Socials:  TikTok; Instagram; LinkedIn

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• Pathogens and Hackers: A New Perspective with David Hatch

  In this thought-provoking episode of the award-winning Bites and Bytes Podcast, host Kristin Demoranville welcomes David Hatch, Vice President of Digital Solutions Marketing at Neogen®. David brings a wealth of experience, blending decades in data analytics, business intelligence, and information security with his work in food safety at Neogen. David shares surprising similarities between pathogens and hackers, both of which exploit vulnerabilities with ever-evolving methods. Together, they discuss the future of food safety and cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation, cloud technology, and proactive solutions in protecting food systems and critical infrastructure. Join Kristin and David as they explore how food safety professionals and technologists can collaborate to safeguard the systems that feed the world. Neogen®, a global leader in food safety testing solutions, empowers industries to address sustainability, supply chain integrity, and emerging threats through innovative products and cutting-edge digitization.  _______________________________________________ Episode Key Highlights: (0:03:25) - Exploring Variety in Food and Wine (0:14:43) - Pathogens as Hackers: An Analogy (0:21:57) - Cloud Technology in Food Safety (0:27:25) - Digital Transformation in Food Labs (0:32:01) - Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure (0:50:53) - The Future of Hybrid Roles in Food and Tech (0:55:19) - Food Safety Data as an Opportunity Center _______________________________________________ Wicked6  is about women coming together to play cyber games and learn about careers in cybersecurity. 🔥 March 28-30, 2025 – a three-day, global, virtual Hack & Chat event where women worldwide come together to play cyber games, compete, learn, and connect. 💡 We’ve got international speakers, technical talks, hands-on workshops, and, of course…the GAMES!  Think Capture the Flag, Attack & Defend, and a high-stakes team tournament—all virtually streamed LIVE! ✨ Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s a game for you.  Plus, there’s networking, prizes, merch, and so much more! 🚀 And guess what?  Right now, registration is only $25!  But hurry—prices go up on March 1st. 💻 Sign up now at Wicked6.com, and let’s LEVEL UP together! 🔥💪 🎤 Want to share your story?  Call for speakers & technical workshops is OPEN! 📹 Ever wonder what cybersecurity careers look like?  Submit a “Day in the Life” video! 🙌 Passionate about supporting women in cyber?  Join us as a volunteer or referee! 🤝 And, companies—be a sponsor!  Help empower the next generation of women in cybersecurity. 🚀 Attack & Defense Call for Volunteers – Help design the next big challenge!  If you’re a seasoned challenge developer, step up and create a mind-bending cyber challenge for the competition. Just remember—developers can’t compete! 🤯🔐 Sign up here: 🔗 Volunteer Form 🌍 Meet the Wicked6 2025 Advisory Board! This powerhouse team of women is driving the mission forward—building an event that’s about competition, connection, and career growth. Get to know them here: 🔗 Advisory Board  - you will see your Bites and Bytes Podcast host there! _______________________________________________ Bites and Bytes Podcast Info: Website:  Explore all our episodes, articles, and more on our official website.  Visit Now Merch Shop:  Show your support with some awesome Bites and Bytes gear! 🧢👕 Shop Now Blog:  Stay updated with the latest insights and stories from the world of cybersecurity in the food industry.  Read Our Blog Audience Survey:  We value your feedback!  Help us make the podcast even better.  Take the Survey Schedule a Call with Kristin:  Want to share your thoughts?  Schedule a meeting with Kristin!  Schedule Now Socials:  TikTok; Instagram; LinkedIn  

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  59:50
• ICS/OT Trends and the Food We Eat: A Conversation with Mike Holcomb

  Welcome to the first episode of the second season of the Award-Winning Bites and Bytes Podcast!  In this episode, host Kristin Demoranville sits down with Mike Holcomb, Fellow of Cybersecurity and ICS/OT Cybersecurity Global Lead for Fluor.  With decades of experience, Mike secures some of the world's largest and most complex ICS/OT environments, from power plants and rail systems to manufacturing and refineries.  A passionate advocate for education and community, Mike has built cybersecurity programs, founded the Upstate SC ISSA Chapter, awarded the CyberSC’sC’s MG Lester D. Eisner Award for Cyber Excellence in Leadership for the State of South Carolina, and leads the BSides Greenville & BSides ICS conferences.  Join Kristin and Mike as they discuss the evolving ICS/OT cybersecurity landscape, Mike's journey as a leader in the field, and the unique challenges facing critical infrastructure, including food and agriculture.  Mike also shares personal insights, including his favorite food memories and how cybersecurity connects to everyday systems like agriculture and transportation. Where to find Mike Holcomb: LinkedIn Website Youtube Github Newsletter _______________________________________________ Episode Key Highlights: (0:00:09) - Welcome and Introduction to Mike Holcomb (0:03:10) - Unique Food Combinations and Fun Food Memories (0:07:12) - Highlighting Food and Agriculture in OT Security (0:12:10) - Protecting Critical Infrastructure Systems Impacting Lives (0:17:18) - Food and Agriculture as Complex Critical Systems (0:23:13) - Behind the Scenes of Food Production and Transport (0:24:02) - Cyber Incidents Impacting Grocery Supply Chains (0:30:01) - Regional Food Safety Regulations and Challenges (0:35:10) - Educating Consumers About Food Systems (0:47:25) - Reflections on Community Building in Cybersecurity (0:53:37) - Final ThoughtsMike’ss Personal Message _______________________________________________ Upcoming Conferences: 🌟 BSides ICS/OT Conference Feb. 10, 2025, in Tampa, Florida 🌴 (the day before S4x25 Conference) 🔗 https://www.bsidesics.org/ SOLD OUT!  BUT we still need help with Sponsorships and Donations! Questions or Need more information email: [email protected] _______________________________________________ Bites and Bytes Podcast Info: Website:  Explore all our episodes, articles, and more on our official website.  Visit Now Merch Shop:  Show your support with some awesome Bites and Bytes gear! 🧢👕 Shop Now Blog:  Stay updated with the latest insights and stories from the world of cybersecurity in the food industry.  Read Our Blog Audience Survey:  We value your feedback!  Help us make the podcast even better.  Take the Survey Schedule a Call with Kristin:  Want to share your thoughts?  Schedule a meeting with Kristin!  Schedule Now TikTok Instagram

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  54:50
• Cyber Resilience Reimagined: Andrew Rose and Dr. Darin Detwiler (Part 2)

  In the final episode of 2024 and Part 2 of this series, host Kristin Demoranville continues her compelling conversation with two influential experts: Andrew Rose, an AgFuturist, and Dr. Darin Detwiler, a renowned food safety advocate and educator. Andrew shares his perspective on the challenges of balancing innovation and resilience in the food and agriculture sector.  He emphasizes the importance of analog systems and legacy knowledge in a world increasingly dependent on digital solutions. He offers a compelling view of how businesses can build continuity and prepare for unexpected disruptions. Dr. Detwiler brings a global lens to the table, discussing the vulnerabilities in our food supply and how cybersecurity must evolve to meet the challenges of an interconnected world. From regulatory gaps to the role of collective courage, his insights highlight the urgent need for action to ensure the safety and security of what sustains us all. This episode powerfully concludes our first season, offering a blend of realism, hope, and practical wisdom.  Join us as we close out the year with this meaningful conclusion to Season One. _______________________________________________ Episode Key Highlights (0:00:19) - Season 1 Finale Introduction (0:00:24) - Recap of Part 1 and What to Expect in Part 2 (0:00:38) - Automation Vulnerabilities in Food Systems (0:01:13) - Cyber Threats and Raw Milk Concerns (0:03:32) - Avian Influenza Risks in Dairy Supply Chains (0:06:01) - Analog Systems and Legacy Knowledge for Resilience (0:07:14) - The Importance of Business Continuity Planning (0:14:25) - Global Collaboration for Food System Security (0:15:17) - Accountability in Food Cybersecurity (0:19:26) - Cybersecurity's Role in Cross-Border Food Trade (0:28:20) - Consumer Awareness and Food Safety Education _______________________________________________ Cyberbiosecurity Summit February 25-26, Laurel, Maryland:  https://www.cyberbiosecuritysummit.org/ Sumitt to a proposal to speak here:  https://www.cyberbiosecuritysummit.org/sessions _______________________________________________ BSides ICS/OT Conference 🎉🌟 Feb. 10, 2025, in Tampa, Florida 🌴 (the day before S4x25 Conference) 🔗 https://www.bsidesics.org/ Call for Papers is OPEN till 12/31/24! Registration is OPEN:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bsides-icsot-tickets-1078099778459 General Admission is $30, and Student/Veteran is $20! Questions or Need more information email: [email protected] _______________________________________________ Bites and Bytes Podcast Info: TikTok Website:  Explore all our episodes, articles, and more on our official website.  Visit Now Merch Shop:  Show your support with some awesome Bites and Bytes gear! 🧢👕 Shop Now Blog:  Stay updated with the latest insights and stories from the world of cybersecurity in the food industry.  Read Our Blog Audience Survey:  We value your feedback!  Help us make the podcast even better.  Take the Survey Schedule a Call with Kristin:  Want to share your thoughts?  Schedule a meeting with Kristin!  Schedule Now

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  46:30

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