cybersecurity Archives - Page 3 of 5

Cybersecurity and IT Strategies for Small Businesses, with Chris Noles, Beyond Computer Solutions

January 22, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Cybersecurity and IT Strategies for Small Businesses, with Chris Noles, Beyond Computer Solutions

00:00 /

Cybersecurity and IT Strategies for Small Businesses, with Chris Noles, Beyond Computer Solutions (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 739)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, John Ray spoke with Chris Noles, Owner and President of Beyond Computer Solutions. Chris discussed the importance of cybersecurity in the current digital era, especially for small businesses, explaining how these businesses often overlook their vulnerability to cyber threats, thinking they are too small to attract attention. He delved into some strategies businesses can utilize to improve their online security, the impact of a cybersecurity breach, and the importance of receiving training and seeking professional advice. Chris also touched on the regulatory environment surrounding cybersecurity, the services that Beyond Computer Solutions offers, and success stories.

North Fulton Business Radio is hosted by John Ray and broadcast and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Chris Noles, Owner and President, Beyond Computer Solutions

Chris is an experienced virtual CIO and technology consultant for professionals and business owners. Chris has over 25 years of information technology experience and over 23 years of experience as a business owner providing managed IT and cybersecurity services.

Chris began his career in the 1990’s providing specialized IT services for law firms and business owners, and many of those same law firms and business owners continue to work with his team of experts today. Chris is a trusted advisor who has provided IT services, compliance, and security solutions to politicians, attorneys, doctors, and executives for organizations of all sizes.

Chris and his firm have over 20 years of experience keeping businesses running so that business owners can focus on running their businesses. His team has also played a significant role in responding to and remediating high-profile cybersecurity breaches. Chris has been featured in multiple articles, providing cybersecurity expert advice to medical and legal professionals who are concerned about protecting their reputations. Chris’s firm has been recognized as one of the top 501 MSPs worldwide.

When Chris isn’t helping business owners solve problems with technology, he enjoys spending time with his new daughter, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

Beyond Computer Solutions

Beyond Computer Solutions works with specialized medical practices and attorneys to help them stay out of the news headlines so that a cybersecurity breach doesn’t ruin their good reputation. They know the internal systems and controls needed to help you stay in compliance and keep the bad guys out.

Being entrenched in your industry, they know your business challenges and regulatory needs, i.e., securing documents, accounting systems, and your EMR system. HIPAA Compliance isn’t just a regulatory requirement; it’s also about protecting you from the consequences, which on average start at $10k per incident (think about that loss per patient record!) They ensure their client’s medical practices stay safe and stay in business by providing top-rated customer service through their US-based team.

The conversation starts with a complimentary security assessment, either by phone or video conference.

The company works with office managers, physicians, practice owners, CFOs, attorneys, and CIOs.

An example of what others say: “Beyond Computer Solutions fully understands the magnitude of the regulation and compliance we face in every aspect of our business. We trust their knowledge and expertise in making recommendations that help support and protect our compliance responsibilities. This allows us to focus on our core mission of healthcare.” (Pamela Rhoton, Office Manager, Peachtree Vascular Associates)

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:04 Introduction and Welcome

01:27 Introducing Chris Noles and Beyond Computer Solutions

02:19 The Evolution of Technology and Business

05:28 The Challenges and Solutions in Cybersecurity

08:40 The Impact of Cybersecurity Breaches on Businesses

12:22 The Role of IT in Business Strategy and Productivity

23:19 The Risks and Solutions in Mobile Technology

27:23 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

North Fulton Business Radio is hosted by John Ray and broadcast and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and many others.

RenasantBank

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $13 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Bytes and Borders: Navigating AI, Cybersecurity, Quantum Computing & Global Trade E45

December 21, 2023 by Karen

AZ TechCast

Bytes and Borders: Navigating AI, Cybersecurity, Quantum Computing & Global Trade E45

00:00 /

Bytes and Borders: Navigating AI, Cybersecurity, Quantum Computing & Global Trade E45

In this episode of AZ TechCast, hosts Karen Nowicki and Steve Zylstra lead a dynamic discussion with guests Mayor Ciprian Ciucu of Bucharest, Cristian Bacanu from the Romanian Parliament, and Representative David Cook. The conversation spans AI, cybersecurity, quantum computing, and international trade, highlighting Arizona’s tech strengths and the potential for collaboration with Romania. Mayor Ciucu emphasizes Bucharest’s appeal and envisions a lasting partnership in AI and cybersecurity, while the discussion touches on global cyber threats and the need for a nuanced approach to AI regulation.

Tune in to gain insights from leaders shaping the intersection of technology and international trade, exploring opportunities for collaboration, and addressing challenges in this rapidly evolving landscape.

The Municipality of Bucharest (the capital of Romania) is divided into 6 administrative units, named sectors (sectoare in Romanian), each of which has their own mayor and council, and has responsibility over local affairs, such as secondary streets, parks, schools and the cleaning services.

Ciprian Ciucu is the mayor of District 6 of Bucharest, situated in the West part of the city. The District has a population of approximatively 400.000 inhabitants. Ciprian is the only mayor of Bucharest, member of PNL, affiliated to EPP. He was elected in 2020.

Prior to being elected as mayor, he was the head of the Civil Service Agency in Romania (2019 – 2020). His professional background includes civil society engagement, international public management consultancy as well as academic. Ciprian Ciucu co-founded and acted as the Programs Director for the Romanian Center for European Policies, one of the renowned think-tanks of Romania (2009 – 2015).

He also established the Center for Urban and Territorial Development (2014 – 2019). As a consultant, he has over 10 years of experience working in different public administration reform projects funded by a wide range of donors including the European Commission, World Bank or UK Aid.

He was active in several countries in Eastern Europe (Moldova, Georgia, Ukraine) and Western Balkans (Kosovo). Between 2007 and 2013 he was an invited professor at the University of Bucharest, teaching project management.

The Parliament of Romania (Romanian: Parlamentul României) is the national bicameral legislature of Romania, consisting of the Chamber of Deputies (Romanian: Camera Deputaților) and the Senate (Romanian: Senat). It meets at the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest, the capital of the country.

Cristian Băcanu is a member of the Romanian Parliament, representing the Bucharest constituency. He is a member of the Legal Committee and of the parliamentary friendship group with the USA (PRO-America group).

Previously, he was Secretary of State in the Ministry of Justice. A lawyer by profession, partner in the law firm MDM Legal, he is also a candidate for a Master’s degree in public administration at the prestigious Hertie School in Berlin.

He was a fellow of the Christian Democratic Konrad Adenauer Stiftung.

The Arizona House of Representatives is a 60-member legislative body consisting of 31 Republicans and 29 Democrats. Each member is elected to a 2-year position, with elections held in an even year.

Representative David Cook has been a member of the Arizona State Legislature since 2017. Originally from Ponca City, Oklahoma, he moved to Arizona in 1985 and graduated from Miami High School.

David has attended several community colleges here in Arizona but is most proud to be a graduate of Arizona State University’s certified public manager program. In 2000, he and his wife started their own ranching company called DC Cattle Company, located in his hometown of Globe, AZ.

Prior to starting his own ranching company, David has also served as a Sergeant in the Department of Corrections. David has served on many different associations as a board member and past president and is still involved in them to this day.

He is a strong advocate for the availability of dual enrollment programs for all rural students and on many other issues affecting rural Arizona.

About Your Hosts

Steve Zylstra serves as president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council, a role he assumed in 2007. He is responsible for strategy, operations, finance and policy development. Zylstra is a vocal spokesman for the value technology can provide in raising social and economic standards in Arizona.

Zylstra serves on numerous councils, committees and boards, was named “Leader of the Year, Technology,” by the Arizona Capitol Times, and “Most Admired Leader” by the Phoenix Business Journal. In addition, he was awarded an honorary doctorate of science in technology from the University of Advancing Technology in Tempe, Ariz.

Zylstra earned a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering technology from Western Michigan University.

Karen Nowicki is a successful author, speaker and the creator of Deep Impact Leadership™ and SoulMarks Coaching™. She is a two-time recipient of the prestigious national Choice Award® for her book and personal development retreat. Karen was crowned the first-ever “Mompreneur of the Year” Award in 2010 for the southwestern states. She was recognized for her leadership, business acumen, and work-life balance.

Karen has been an expert guest on regional TV and radio shows, including Fox Phoenix Morning Show, Sonoran Living, Good Morning Arizona, The Chat Room, and Mid-Day Arizona. She has been a regular contributor to many print and online magazines – publishing articles and blogs for business and education.

In addition to working with private coaching clients, Karen is also the Owner & President of Phoenix Business RadioX. The Business RadioX Network amplifies the voice of business – serving the Fortune 500,000, not just the Fortune 500. Phoenix Business RadioX helps local businesses and professional associations get the word out about the important work they’re doing to serve their market, profession, and community.

Of all the experiences Karen has had the privilege of participating in over her vast career, she shares that Phoenix Business RadioX is a pinnacle adventure!

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn and follow Phoenix Business RadioX on Facebook and Instagram.

Leslie Cooper Marquez is a dynamic marketing professional with over 17 years of broad-based marketing, public relations and advertising experience in both in-house and agency environments.

Originally from Birmingham, AL, Leslie has honed her expertise across diverse sectors, including non-profit performing arts, legal marketing, mortgage technology, and residential mortgage marketing.

Leslie has been an integral part of the Arizona community for the past 5 years. Most recently, she served as the Marketing Director for Scottsdale-based mortgage technology firm, focusIT, Inc., and previously as the Director of Marketing for Ballet Arizona.

Beyond her professional commitments, Leslie is an active member of the community. She serves as a Sustainer with the Junior League of Phoenix, volunteers with the Distinguished Young Women of Arizona scholarship program and is an alumna of the esteemed Valley Leadership Accelerate class of 2019.

In her spare time, Leslie shares her passion for fitness as a dedicated barre instructor at TenPoint5 Central. Above all, she cherishes her roles as a devoted mother to a young son and a loving wife to her husband, David.

About Our Sponsor

The Arizona Technology Council, Arizona’s only statewide organization serving the technology sector, fosters a climate of innovation to enhance technology in Arizona.

A trusted resource in strengthening Arizona’s technology industry, the Council proactively eliminates impediments that companies face, accelerates the entrepreneurial mindset in the state’s expanding innovation ecosystem, and works to create a destination for companies to be, thrive and stay.

Follow Arizona Technology Council on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Melanie Cook, Veritas Management Group, and Jeremy Sisemore, ASAP Talent Services

December 15, 2023 by John Ray

Veritas Management Group, ASAP Talent Services

North Fulton Business Radio

Melanie Cook, Veritas Management Group, and Jeremy Sisemore, ASAP Talent Services

00:00 /

Melanie Cook, Veritas Management Group, and Jeremy Sisemore, ASAP Talent Services North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 731)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, John Ray welcomed Melanie Cook from Veritas Management Group and Jeremy Sizemore from ASAP Talent Services. The discussion highlighted the recent merger of the two companies and how they are working towards creating a more diverse, geographically dispersed client base. Melanie discussed Veritas Management Group’s significant role in public health data analytics and IT, citing their global presence in nine countries and close ties with the CDC. Sizemore shed light on ASAP Talent Services’ accomplishments in IT talent recruiting and their customer-oriented approach to delivering customized staffing solutions. Both touched upon how AI and ChatGPT are expected to shape the future of their industries and the steps they’re taking to ensure fair representation in AI data collection. Looking ahead, both Melanie and Jeremy expressed optimism for the year 2024, with plans for further expansion and benefiting from favorable economic indicators.

North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Melanie Cook, CEO, Veritas Management Group

**Melanie Cook, Veritas Management Group**

As CEO, Melanie is responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership to VMG while driving company growth. She has over 20 years of management experience in the government and corporate sectors as a corporate attorney, senior consultant, and business development executive. She has been widely recognized for organizing and transforming startup enterprises.

In the past, Melanie has held positions as Sr. Consultant to a Wall Street investment bank, Sr. Adviser to the US Secretary of Commerce and the Under Secretary for Technology, Attorney at the Securities and Exchange Commission, and Sr. Consultant supporting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”).

Melanie is a co-author of Business Success Secrets, an honest, raw, and real look at some of the best-kept entrepreneurial secrets. Business Success Secrets is now a best seller on the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best Seller lists.

Melanie is a graduate of Spelman College and Harvard Law School.

Veritas Management Group (VMG)

VMG is a leading management consulting firm offering solutions to complex challenges involving public health, technology, and military domains. They serve government and commercial sector organizations, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations, both domestically and globally. Their diverse team of experts stays on top of the details, so their clients can focus on the big picture.

They specialize in research and evaluation, international support, administrative support, leadership development, health communication, health equity, diversity and inclusion, and military support services.

VMG is proud to be SBA 8(a) certified, MBE, FBE, and SBE certified with the City of Atlanta, and an SBA woman-owned small business.

Website | LinkedIn

Jeremy Sisemore, President, ASAP Talent Services

**Jeremy Sisemore, ASAP Talent Services**

Jeremy Sisemore has been one of the leading IT executive recruiters throughout North America for the past 20 years. He started his career with MRI, was Rookie of the Year in 2000, and quickly became the go-to resource for SAP, ERP, and cybersecurity talent acquisition needs nationally. ASAP Talent serves over 75 major Fortune 500 clients throughout North America and internationally in Hong Kong, Singapore, Germany, and the UK.

Today, Jeremy is President at ASAP Talent Services, a Veritas Management Company. He serves on the board of The Pinnacle Society and is the Outreach Chair. He speaks regularly at industry conferences such as NAPS, NCASP, The Fordyce Forum, HAAPC, and MASA, among others.

Jeremy is a content creator, influencer, and writer who has been quoted in CIO magazine.

ASAP Talent Services

ASAP Talent Services, a Veritas Management Group (VMG) company, is a leading IT executive search firm specializing in SAP and cybersecurity talent. Since 1999, our team members have been trusted recruiting partners for Fortune 500 to Fortune 1000 clients. Their search team has a track record of success in SAP, S/4 HANA, Salesforce, Workday, Hybris, Qualtrics, Callidus Cloud, CoreSystems, and Cyber Security searches at all levels. Hiring managers and IT professionals trust us to get the cultural fit right as well as the technical fit and choose ASAP Talent when quality is a critical factor. ASAP Talent is a trusted partner for building world-class SAP delivery teams, bringing on SAP consultants on a staff-augmentation basis, or even building teams with a contract-to-hire model.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

00:05 Introduction and Welcome

01:18 Welcoming Guests: Melanie Cook and Jeremy Sizemore

01:47 Discussion on Veritas Management Group

02:48 Importance of Data in Public Health

04:20 Introduction to ASAP Talent Services

05:09 Merger of Veritas Management Group and ASAP Talent Services

05:29 Future Plans and Diversification

08:47 Discussion on Workforce Trends

17:33 Impact of AI and ChatGPT on Workforce

25:37 Success Stories and Future Outlook

31:42 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

LIVE from the GNFCC 2023 Women’s Leadership Summit: Dr. Julie Petherbridge, Dean, Mercer University School of Business

December 9, 2023 by John Ray

Dr. Julie Petherbridge, Dean of the Mercer University School of Business

North Fulton Business Radio

LIVE from the GNFCC 2023 Women's Leadership Summit: Dr. Julie Petherbridge, Dean, Mercer University School of Business

00:00 /

LIVE from the GNFCC 2023 Women’s Leadership Summit: Dr. Julie Petherbridge, Dean, Mercer University School of Business (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 727)

Dr. Julie Petherbridge, Dean of the Mercer University School of Business, joined host John Ray at the 2023 Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Women’s Leadership Summit. Mercer was a Presenting Sponsor of the Summit. Julie shared that the university is experiencing record enrollment at the Business School, and she discussed new programs and their emphasis on retooling and reskilling the workforce in areas like analytics, cybersecurity, fintech, etc. She further covered Mercer’s commitment to creating bridges between their students and the wider business community, their mission of focusing on student outcomes and soft skills, and their initiatives to help students transition seamlessly from education to employment.

This show was originally broadcast live from the 2023 GNFCC Women’s Leadership Summit held at The Commons at Phase in Alpharetta, Georgia.

North Fulton Business Radio is produced and broadcast by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Mercer University School of Business

Mercer University’s Stetson-Hatcher School of Business delivers career-focused business education in order to develop innovative leaders who are responsible global citizens. Accredited by the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the school is widely recognized for its innovative academic programs and accomplished faculty. Graduates of the Stetson-Hatcher School of Business serve as respected leaders and professionals in their industries and communities.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Dr. Julie Petherbridge, Dean, Mercer University School of Business

Dr. Julie Petherbridge became dean of Mercer University’s Stetson-Hatcher School of Business on July 6, 2021. She also serves as associate professor of accountancy. Prior to her appointment as dean, she served as interim dean and associate dean of graduate programs.

Dr. Petherbridge earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Clayton State University in 1993 and has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Georgia since 1995. She worked full-time in public accounting until 2001, when she decided to transition to academia while continuing to practice. She earned her M.P.A. in 2002 and Ph.D. in 2010, both from Georgia State University. Her dissertation topic involved auditor’s behavior in the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board inspection process.

Her current research interests focus on public policy of accounting regulations, internal auditing, nonprofit organizations, and professional biases. She is published in the Journal of Accounting and Public Policy, The Southern Business and Economic Journal, the Academy of Accounting and Financial Studies Journal and others, and she has continued to stay connected with the accounting profession through several professional organizations.

Questions and Topics in this Interview:

00:04 Introduction to the Women’s Leadership Summit

00:36 Interview with Julie Petherbridge, Dean of Mercer University School of Business

00:50 Discussion on Mercer University’s Business School and its Programs

02:30 Exploring the Flexibility of Learning at Mercer University

03:14 Mercer University’s Connection with the Business Community

04:12 Mercer University’s Involvement with the Greater North Fulton Chamber

05:28 Women in Male-Dominated Industries: A Perspective from Mercer University

06:35 Work-Life Balance in the Accounting Industry

07:23 Key Takeaways from the Women’s Leadership Summit

08:14 Closing Remarks and Contact Information for Mercer University

2023 GNFCC Women’s Leadership Summit, presented by the Women INfluencing Business Committee

The 2023 Women’s Leadership Summit, organized by the Women INfluencing Business Committee of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, was held on November 28, 2023, at the Commons at Phase in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Powered by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC), the Women INfluencing Business Committee strives to engage female leaders and enhance the standing of professional women within the community. Its annual awards program recognizes women with exceptional vision who have implemented innovative ideas in both the workplace and community and who inspire others.

Website

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has grown to become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $13 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Paige Barry, VP of Customer Solutions for DefenseStorm

November 3, 2023 by Mike

Celebrating Powerhouse Women

Paige Barry, VP of Customer Solutions for DefenseStorm

00:00 /

Celebrating Powerhouse Women salutes and recognizes women who are making an impact, whether it’s in business, philanthropy, public service, or elsewhere.

Paige Barry/DefenseStorm

Paige Barry is the Vice President of Customer Solutions at DefenseStorm. She has more than 20 years of consistent success serving the technology needs of financial institutions. Paige has held leadership roles in Operations, Client Services, and Product Management, with a background in setting service and delivery strategies, implementing customer satisfaction and retention programs, and establishing performance metrics to improve productivity. She currently leads all post-sales, client-facing teams for DefenseStorm with a specialized focus on Onboarding, Platform Support, Cybersecurity Operations, and Threat Intelligence teams.

Named by Cyber Magazine as one of the Top 10 Female Leaders in Cybersecurity, Paige consistently demonstrates a powerful commitment to the clients she serves and the employees she leads. She enjoys a passion for the mentoring and development of young adults, technology and security training for seniors, and investment in emerging leaders at DefenseStorm.

Celebrating Powerhouse Women is presented by

Cybersecurity Threats to Small Business, with Michael Caralis, Verizon

October 4, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Cybersecurity Threats to Small Business, with Michael Caralis, Verizon

00:00 /

North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 707)

Michael Caralis, Vice President at Verizon Business Markets, was the guest on this episode of North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray to discuss cybersecurity threats to small business. Michael described the current top cybersecurity threats he’s seeing, ways business can protect their data with limited resources, the scope of the problem, his recommendations, resources which Verizon offers, success stories, and much more.

North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Verizon

Verizon Communications was formed on June 30, 2000, and is one of the world’s leading providers of technology and communications services.

Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $133.6 billion in 2021. The company offers voice, data and video services and solutions on its award-winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers’ demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control.

Verizon Business Markets provides the best Broadband, Voice, and Mobile products, solutions and services in support of America’s growing Small & Medium Business community. Verizon Fios uses powerful fiber-optic network technology to deliver fast and reliable internet to help you run your business.

Fios technology is flexible enough to support businesses of all sizes with a wide range of Internet, TV and Phone packages based on your needs. Verizon also offers reliable mobile phone service plans to businesses that signup with 5 or more lines.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Michael Caralis, Vice President, Verizon Business Markets, Verizon

As Vice President of Verizon Business Markets, Michael leads three critical business units for small and midsize business customers: network as a service (NaaS), Fios for Business and Verizon’s channel program. His team of 1,200+ professionals partner with customers on their digital transformation journeys, providing innovative managed solutions for total communications, connectivity, collaboration and security.

Verizon’s customer-centric organization delivers 5G technologies, fiber, ethernet, security solutions, and unified communications solutions such as BlueJeans conferencing, One Talk (voiceover IP solution) and Microsoft Teams. As businesses across all segments and industries anticipate a post-pandemic comeback, they are looking to adopt 5G and its potential to create new opportunities and build new efficiencies and scale their businesses. Their team also provides Fios for Business, business digital voice, and easy to deploy and use set of security and collaboration products.

Prior to this, Michael served as Executive Director of Solution Architect and Engineering. In that role, his team was focused on the transformation of our technical teams, providing the best-integrated solution designs and managed services, including broadband, security and collaboration platforms. Earlier in his career, he served public sector customers at Verizon for four years. Last year, his team delivered critical services and technology to aid in the pandemic response and enable remote learning for students.

Previously, he served as the Director of Marketing and Operations for Verizon Wireless and partnered with Apple, Google and Samsung to enable a frictionless customer experience in deploying new technology and applications. As a result, Verizon was the first carrier in the world to launch Apple Business Manager, an iconic solution. Later, he led a team that launched Android zero-touch and Samsung Knox Mobile Enrollment. Prior to Verizon, he worked in various sales roles at Nextel and Sprint.

Michael thrives on solving the most complex business problems in today’s data-rich and tech-heavy environment while leading groundbreaking transformations and aligning large-team operations to the strategic vision. He strives to be the most objective voice in a room and believe in authentic leadership.

Michael is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture, where everyone is heard and they take pride in serving their customers.

Questions and Topics in this Interview:

What do you see as the top cybersecurity threats affecting SMBs?
What do you recommend SMBs do to address security/cybersecurity threats beyond the basics?
What are you hearing from SMBs in terms of how they perceive and how they are addressing security/cybersecurity threats?
With limited resources, what are the three most important things SMBs can do to better protect their data?
Why is the data security problem for SMBs so big?
Any other new data points or insights you’d like to share?

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions with over $13 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Since 2000, Office Angels® has been restoring joy to the life of small business owners, enabling them to focus on what they do best. At the same time, we honor and support at-home experts who wish to continue working on an as-needed basis. Not a temp firm or a placement service, Office Angels matches a business owner’s support needs with Angels who have the talent and experience necessary to handle work that is essential to creating and maintaining a successful small business. Need help with administrative tasks, bookkeeping, marketing, presentations, workshops, speaking engagements, and more? Visit us at https://officeangels.us/.

A Closer Look at Arizona’s Shifting IT Industry E40

July 28, 2023 by Karen

E40-A-Closer-Look-at-Arizonas-Shifting-IT-Industry-feature

AZ TechCast

A Closer Look at Arizona's Shifting IT Industry E40

00:00 /

A Closer Look at Arizona’s Shifting IT Industry E40

Should we build out our internal IT department or work with a managed service provider? Should we onshore or offshore IT support? How can we attract qualified IT talent?

The July 2023 episode of the Arizona Technology Council’s AZTechCast podcast featured experts including Alex Cole, CEO of Cole Technologies; Will Davis, director, Data & Analytics at Slalom; and Jackie Shipley, chief people officer at AccountabilIT. These leaders joined Steve Zylstra, Council president and CEO, and Karen Nowicki, president and owner of Phoenix Business RadioX, in discussing tips for how to enhance your IT strategy and better prepare for shifting trends in technology.

In this hour-long episode, the panel of three experts defined information technology, emphasized the importance of having an IT department, team or resource on hand and debated the pros and cons of having an internal IT department and working with a managed service provider. Throughout this entire conversation, the experts shed light on some of the IT challenges they regularly see Arizona companies struggling with and discussed how our state can better train, recruit and retain highly qualified IT talent.

Cole Technologies is a managed IT service provider based out of Tucson, AZ serving businesses across the United States. They support business IT, Security, and Compliance under one umbrella even with complex security and compliance requirements like CMMC, FedRAMP, SOC2, and HIPAA.

Their background includes experience working with companies in healthcare, finance, defense contracting, and manufacturing.

Alex Cole is the Founder/CEO of Cole Technologies. He is an accomplished IT and cybersecurity professional with extensive expertise in leading the implementation of next-generation IT solutions. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills by successfully managing and delivering large-scale enterprise IT projects in the healthcare, defense, and manufacturing industries.

His recent accomplishments have included revolutionizing the way SMBs handle their IT and cybersecurity through compliance with industry standard frameworks including CMMC, SOC2, HIPAA, and RMF (Risk Management Framework). By implementing strategy-first, holistic IT + cybersecurity solutions, he has been able to drive innovation and efficiency reducing the time to value for an organization to just 30 days.

Currently, his primary focus is serving SMBs and enterprises with a strong demand for cybersecurity, IT, and compliance across diverse industries.

Connect with Alex on LinkedIn.

AccountabilIT is your all-in-one technology partner and leading managed security services provider. As a Microsoft Gold Partner and award-winning MSP and MSSP, they help you make the right technology investments and make the most out of that technology.

With their size and expertise, they hit a unique sweet spot that other providers don’t. You can leverage their enterprise-level operations and solutions while receiving tailored, personalized service from people who care about you and your business.

All aspects of your company—not just your technology—go into their partnership. To ensure your technology strategy is perfectly synced with your business strategy, they get to know your business at a holistic level.

Jackie Shipley has over 30 years’ experience in the IT industry and is currently AccountabilIT’s Chief People Officer.

She manages all aspects of human resources including benefit administration, payroll, recruitment, and most importantly employee relations. Her primary focus is employee satisfaction and retention.

She holds a BS in Business from the WP Carey School of Business, Arizona State University.

Follow AccountabilIT on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Slalom is a purpose-led, global business and technology consulting company. Their purpose—to help people and organizations dream bigger, move faster, and build better tomorrows for all—guides everything they do. And their north star is a world in which each person has the opportunity to love their life and work.

Since the consulting business started in 2001, Slalom has grown rapidly to 13,000+ team members in eight countries and 45 markets. They have close partnerships with over 400 leading technology providers, including AWS, Google, Microsoft, Salesforce, and Snowflake.

From strategy to implementation, Slalom’s approach is fiercely human. They deeply understand their customers—and their customers—to deliver practical, end-to-end solutions that drive meaningful impact.

Slalom operates on the model of local soul at a global scale. Their team members live where they work, and each office is committed to supporting their local communities – while tapping into the experience and expertise of a global organization. The Phoenix office has over 150 employees across the valley.

Slalom is honored to be consistently recognized as a great place to work, including being one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For eight years running, and a best place to work by the Phoenix Business Journal for the last five years.

Will Davis is the Director of Data and Analytics for Slalom’s Phoenix office. He leads a large and growing team that helps clients unlock the value of their data through analysis, visualization, and overall business strategy.

Will has been with Slalom for the last six years, and cumulatively has over a decade of experience in the technology consulting space, advising clients ranging from deeply impactful non-profits to Fortune 10 cornerstones.

Prior to starting his career in consulting, Will served as a Captain in the United States Air Force where he was a developmental engineer and mission manager for Satellite and Test Vehicle rocket launches.

Connect with Will on LinkedIn.

About Your Hosts

Zylstra earned a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering technology from Western Michigan University.

Of all the experiences Karen has had the privilege of participating in over her vast career, she shares that Phoenix Business RadioX is a pinnacle adventure!

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn and follow Phoenix Business RadioX on Facebook and Instagram.

Born in Phoenix, Arizona, Bianca Buliga is a trilingual first-generation American of Romanian ethnicity. A marketing professional with experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, Bianca currently works as Director, Marketing & Communications for the Arizona Technology Council.

Previously, Bianca worked as Marketing Communications Lead at Proctorio, a learning integrity platform that offers remote proctoring software ensuring exam integrity for learners around the world.

Bianca also worked as Senior Marketing Manager at SEED SPOT, a social impact incubator that educates, accelerates, and invests in impact-driven entrepreneurs creating market-based solutions to social problems. In January of 2020, Bianca was selected as an awardee of the Mandela Washington Reciprocal Exchange Program and traveled to the African island of Mauritius to run entrepreneurship programming for 15 impact-driven ecopreneurs on behalf of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Bianca has also completed comprehensive consulting projects for IBM, ESAN Business School, and the Peruvian government, and interned at the Arizona House of Representatives and U.S. Embassy in Bucharest, Romania.

Bianca earned her Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs from Northern Arizona University in 2014 and her Master’s degree in Global Affairs and Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in 2017. She is an avid reader, yogi, and world traveler always planning her next trip.

Connect with Bianca on LinkedIn.

About Our Sponsor

The Arizona Technology Council, Arizona’s only statewide organization serving the technology sector, fosters a climate of innovation to enhance technology in Arizona.

Follow Arizona Technology Council on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Todd Gooden, The Solutions Team, Inc.

May 23, 2023 by John Ray

Dental Business Radio

Todd Gooden, The Solutions Team, Inc.

00:00 /

Todd Gooden, The Solutions Team, Inc. (Dental Business Radio, Episode 44)

Todd Gooden, CEO of The Solutions Team, Inc. was behind the mic with host Patrick O’Rourke to discuss IT services and the business model he’s created to serve the dental industry. Todd also covered IT problems that can arise in a dental practice, cybersecurity, mitigating risk, why practices in smaller cities and towns are at risk, and much more.

Dental Business Radio is underwritten and presented by Practice Quotient: PPO Negotiations & Analysis and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

The Solutions Team, Inc.

In 2007, while managing a routine Disaster Recovery implementation for a major corporation in Central Mississippi, Todd Gooden, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Solutions Team explored outsourcing several key components in an effort to minimize the company’s infrastructure expenses. His inability to find a provider of the services he needed led to the founding of The Solutions Team.

In 2008, The Solutions Team began specializing in “Cloud” technology – designing Public, Private and Hybrid Cloud Solutions for emerging and mid-sized companies seeking to protect critical server data (financials, e-mail messages, databases, etc.), while reducing operational costs in server backup and recovery. Today, headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi, The Solutions Team is a leading cloud-services company – serving businesses nationwide (40 states).

The Solutions Team has emerged as the go-to provider for companies looking to outsource their entire IT department or simply deploy key portions of their system to the ‘cloud’. The company offers proven expertise on a variety of cloud-based managed services and solutions, including Cloud-Hosted Email. Managed Email On-Site, Virtual IT Support, Managed Networks, Cloud Data Backup/Disaster Recovery and Data Breach Response.

Company website| LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter

Todd Gooden, CEO, The Solutions Team, Inc.

In 1996, at 24 years of age, Todd was the youngest person at the time to ever receive the Mississippi Business Journal’s “Top 40 Under 40” distinction – awarded annually to rising business leaders throughout the state. More than two decades and three companies later, he continues to be recognized as an IT services innovator and leader.

He was named a ‘Most Successful Entrepreneur of 2018’ by Beyond Exclamation magazine, and more recently was named one of the state’s ‘Top CEOs of 2020’ by the Mississippi Business Journal. Through the years, The Solutions Team has emerged as the go-to provider for companies looking to outsource their entire IT department or simply deploy key portions of the ‘cloud’ or Cyber Security Solutions. TST’s innovative ‘performance-based’ billing model and stellar track record for service availability and responsiveness have helped clients minimize IT service interruptions and increase productivity, while managing their budgets and reducing costs more effectively.

Under Todd’s leadership, The Solutions Team was named to the prestigious Pioneer 250 of CRN magazine’s 2019 Managed Service Provider 500 list, recognizing North American solution providers with cutting-edge approaches to delivering managed IT services. Other recognitions include TST being named a ‘Best Place to Work’ for six consecutive years since 2017 by the Mississippi Business Journal.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending a day out on his boat, hitting the green at tee time, cheering on his favorite football team, connecting with nature during a camping trip, or even hanging out with his hunting buddies at deer camp. Todd has been married to his beautiful wife, Brandi for 23 years whom he shares four children: Dakota, Aubrey, Kaelon, and Eli.

Dental Business Radio covers the business side of dentistry. Host Patrick O’Rourke and his guests cover industry trends, insights, success stories, and more in this wide-ranging show. The show’s guests include successful doctors across the spectrum of dental practice providers, as well as trusted advisors and noted industry participants. Dental Business Radio is underwritten and presented by Practice Quotient and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. The show can be found on all the major podcast apps and a complete show archive is here.

Practice Quotient

Dental Business Radio is sponsored by Practice Quotient. Practice Quotient, Inc. serves as a bridge between the payor and provider communities. Their clients include general dentist and dental specialty practices across the nation of all sizes, from completely fee-for-service-only to active network participation with every dental plan possible. They work with independent practices, emerging multi-practice entities, and various large ownership entities in the dental space. Their PPO negotiations and analysis projects evaluate the merits of the various in-network participation contract options specific to your Practice’s patient acquisition strategy. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Connect with Practice Quotient

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter

Are You In the Dark? E142

February 16, 2023 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Are You In the Dark? E142

00:00 /

Are You In the Dark? E142

Ismael Navarro joined Tycoons to talk about cybersecurity and some of the things you can do to stay safe on the web. He discussed what to avoid and what to do when being online both personally and professionally.

Tune in to hear Ismael talk about the dark web, email safety and logging on in public. To learn more you can go online to thecounterveil.com

Counterveil is a boutique Cyber Defense organization used for cybersecurity content development and resource augmentation to support a range of cybersecurity applications needs for large scale organizations.

Counterveil also offers XDR and SOAR products.

Ismael Navarro is an Army veteran who worked in security and defense services for over 20 years before moving into Cyber Defense.

He has worked as a cybersecurity subject matter expert for organizations like Microsoft, Gilead, T-Mobile, MUFG and Union Bank.

He is the author of several patents in cybersecurity and has provided Advisory services for countless CISOs.

Connect with Ismael on LinkedIn.

About the Show

Tycoons of Small Biz spotlights the true backbone of the American economy, the true tycoons of business in America… the owners, founders and CEO’s of small businesses. Join hosts, Austin L Peterson, Landon Mance and the featured tycoons LIVE every Tuesday at 1 pm, right here on Business RadioX and your favorite podcast platform.

About Your Hosts

Austin Peterson is a Comprehensive Financial Planner and co-founder of Backbone Planning Partners in Scottsdale, AZ. Austin is a registered rep and investment advisor representative with Lincoln Financial Advisors. Prior to joining Lincoln Financial Advisors, Austin worked in a variety of roles in the financial services industry.

He began his career in financial services in the year 2000 as a personal financial advisor with Independent Capital Management in Santa Ana, CA. Austin then joined Pacific Life Insurance Company as an internal wholesaler for their variable annuity and mutual fund products. After Pacific Life, Austin formed his own financial planning company in Southern California that he built and ran for 6 years and eventually sold when he moved his family to Salt Lake City to pursue his MBA.

After he completed his MBA, Austin joined Crump Life Insurance where he filled a couple of different sales roles and eventually a management role throughout the five years he was with Crump. Most recently before joining Lincoln Financial Advisors in February 2015, Austin spent 2 years as a life insurance field wholesaler with Symetra Life Insurance Company. Austin is a Certified Financial Planner Professional and Chartered Life Underwriter. In 2021, Austin became a Certified Business Exit Consultant® (CBEC®) to help entrepreneurs plan to exit their businesses.

Austin and his wife of 23 years, Robin, have two children, AJ (21) and Ella (18) and they reside in Gilbert, Arizona. He is a graduate of California State University, Fullerton with a Bachelor of Arts in French and of Brigham Young University’s Marriott School of Management with a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in sales and entrepreneurship.

Connect with Austin on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Landon Mance is a Financial Planner and co-founder of Backbone Planning Partners out of Las Vegas, Nevada. He rebranded his practice in 2020 to focus on serving small business owners after operating as Mance Wealth Management since 2015 when Landon broke off from a major bank and started his own “shop.”

Landon comes from a family of successful entrepreneurs and has a passion and excitement for serving the business community. This passion is what brought about the growth of Backbone Planning Partners to help business owners and their families. At Backbone Planning, we believe small business owners’ personal and business goals are intertwined, so we work with our clients to design a financial plan to support all aspects of their lives.

In 2019, Landon obtained the Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) designation through the Exit Planning Institute. With this certification, Backbone Planning Partners assists business owners through an ownership transition while focusing on a positive outcome for their employees and meeting the business owner’s goals. Landon is also a member of the Business Intelligence Institute (BII) which is a collaborative group that shares tools, resources and personnel, and offers advanced level training and technical support to specifically serve business owners. In 2021, Landon became a Certified Business Exit Consultant® (CBEC®) to help entrepreneurs plan to exit their businesses by counseling owners about exit options, estimating the value of the business, preparing the business for exit and tax considerations.

Landon enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife, stepson, and new baby twins. He grew up in sunny San Diego and loves visiting his family, playing a round of golf with friends, and many other outdoor activities. Landon tries to make a difference in the lives of children in Las Vegas as a part of the leadership team for a local non-profit. He regularly visits the children that we work with to remind himself of why it’s so important to, “be the change that you wish to see in the world.”

Landon received his B.S. from California State University Long Beach in business marketing and gets the rest of his education through the school of hard knocks via his business owner clients.

Connect with Landon on LinkedIn.