Tech Transforms

Episode 94: Special Crossover Episode: Boosting Federal Cyber Resilience Through Cross-Domain Solutions

April 22nd, 2025  |  22 mins 35 secs

#crossdomainsolutions, #cyberresilience, #federalcybersecurity, #owlcyberdefense, #securedatasharing

In this special crossover episode with the Federal Tech Podcast, Tim Fahl of Owl Cyber Defense dives into how cross-domain solutions are boosting cyber resilience in federal agencies.

Episode 93: Skipjack Series ep2: White Heron and the Edge of Conflict

April 17th, 2025  |  1 hr 23 mins

#aianddefense, #cybersecurity, #disinformation, #fictionmeetsreality, #indopacificsecurity, #informationwarfare, #militarytech, #modernwarfare, #multidomainoperations, #nationalsecurity, #operationwhiteheron, #owlcyberdefense, #pacstar, #realtimeintel, #securecomms, #skipjackseries, #specialforces, #stevestratton, #techtransforms, #usefulfiction

Guest: Award Winning Author Steve Stratton, Retired Green Beret, Former Secret Service Agent, Cybersecurity Expert, Author of Operation Skipjack

Summary:
In this special episode of Tech Transforms, part of our ongoing Skipjack Series, host Carolyn Ford reconnects with Steve Stratton to discuss his latest story: Operation White Heron. Building on the world of Operation Skipjack, this installment dives into the often-invisible frontlines of modern warfare—where shaping operations, secure communications, and real-time intelligence determine outcomes before the first shot is ever fired.

From special forces training with partners in the Pacific to disinformation campaigns and environmental sensors used for threat detection, Stratton breaks down how fiction rooted in reality can help decision-makers reframe the future of conflict. It’s a powerful conversation about leadership at the edge, data as a weapon, and the value of multi-domain coordination.

If you’re in national security, tech, or just curious how stories can shape strategy, this episode is for you.

5 AI Predictions for 2025 & How to Build Intelligent Agents with Dave Egts

March 31st, 2025  |  45 mins 56 secs

ai, chatbots, llm, salesforce

Field CTO at MuleSoft (a Salesforce company), Dave Egts returns to Tech Transforms with Carolyn Ford to unpack his “5 AI Predictions for 2025.” In this action-packed episode, Dave dives deep into the rise of intelligent AI agents—and what separates real value from hype. From large action models to personal assistants that actually get stuff done, Dave shares real-world examples (and a few Battlestar Galactica references) that reveal how agencies and enterprises can start using AI to reduce drudgery, improve outcomes, and scale with confidence.

Whether you're an IT leader or just AI-curious, this episode is your tactical guide to agentic AI, small language models, and what to expect next.

Useful Fiction with Steve Stratton: A Story You Can't Afford to Ignore

March 12th, 2025  |  26 mins 45 secs

cyber security, cyber war, cyber warfare, national security, special forces, technology, warfare

In this gripping special edition episode of Tech Transforms, host Carolyn Ford sits down with author and former intelligence professional Steve Stratton to discuss Operation Skipjack, the latest installment in a useful fiction thriller series. More than just a novel, Operation Skipjack presents a chillingly plausible cyber warfare scenario—one that is already unfolding in the real world.

Stratton shares how his experience in the White House, Special Forces, and intelligence community informs his writing, blending real-world threats, emerging military technologies, and cyber warfare tactics into a compelling narrative. Together, Carolyn and Steve explore the power of "useful fiction"—a storytelling approach used by decision-makers to better understand complex security challenges and technological advancements.

Open Source for Classified Environments

February 13th, 2025  |  53 mins 2 secs

ai, cybersecurity, open source, risk, security, software, software development, tech

In this episode of Tech Transforms, host Carolyn Ford dives into the world of secure software development with guests Scott Orton and Mike Mehlberg. They explore the critical challenges of implementing Software Bills of Materials (SBOMs), securing open-source software, and using Rust programming language for safer, memory-secure coding. The conversation also covers AI's growing role in code development, the evolving landscape of cross-domain solutions, and the race between cybersecurity advancements and ever-evolving threats.

From real-world implementation challenges to insights on automating security measures in classified environments, Scott and Mike break down the risks and opportunities in today's software ecosystem. Whether you're a developer, cybersecurity professional, or just curious about how technology is shaping secure systems, this episode is packed with expert insights and actionable takeaways.

Blockchain Intelligence: Tracking Crime and Securing Nations

February 6th, 2025  |  42 mins 32 secs

blockchain, blockchain intelligence, crime, cyber warfare, cyberterrorism, fraud, ransomware

In this episode, host Carolyn Ford sits down with Don Spies, CEO of Outrider Analytics, to demystify blockchain intelligence and its role in crime fighting and national security. Don breaks down the fundamentals of blockchain—explaining it like you’re in eighth grade—before diving into how law enforcement agencies leverage blockchain analysis to track illicit financial activities, from ransomware payments to terrorist financing.

They explore the immutable nature of blockchain, the challenges and advantages of digital asset tracking, and how cybercriminals attempt to obfuscate their transactions. Don also shares real-world applications, busts common misconceptions about cryptocurrency, and even imagines how Ocean’s 11 would play out if blockchain intelligence were involved.

Tune in for a fascinating discussion on the intersection of tech, security, and finance, and why blockchain is both a tool for criminals and a powerful asset for law enforcement.

Exploring Human-Machine Teaming with General Michael Groen

January 14th, 2025  |  49 mins 11 secs

In this episode of Tech Transforms, host Carolyn Ford sits down with retired Lieutenant General Michael Groen, former director of the Department of Defense's Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC), to discuss the transformative power of artificial intelligence. From advancing national security to revolutionizing industries, General Groen highlights the importance of human-machine teaming, ethical AI integration, and fostering a culture of imagination and innovation. Tune in to explore how AI applications are shaping our future and why embracing this change responsibly is essential for global competitiveness.

Episode 87: The Future of Tactical Networks: Connecting Warfighters in Real Time

December 12th, 2024  |  55 mins 10 secs

cyber, data, defense, warfighter

In this episode of Tech Transforms, Carolyn welcomes Dan O'Donohue, Vice President of Business Development for Secure Communications at Owl Cyber Defense and retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant General. With a distinguished military career that included leadership roles in cyber operations and joint force development, Dan shares his expertise on the evolution of secure communication technologies in multi-domain operations. The discussion delves into the critical role of tactical networks in empowering warfighters, overcoming challenges in disrupted environments, and integrating advanced technologies like AI and edge computing to gain a decision-making edge. From cross-domain solutions to coalition interoperability, Dan offers actionable insights for leaders navigating the complex landscape of secure communications.

Episode 86: Navigating AI in Sensitive Environments: What You Need to Know

November 22nd, 2024  |  43 mins 30 secs

ai, generative ai, innovation, sdlc

In this episode of Tech Transforms, Carolyn Ford speaks with Tracy Bannon, Software Architect and Researcher at MITRE, about the transformative role of generative AI in the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). Tracy shares insights on how AI can enhance workflows, automate testing, and even act as a collaborative team member, while addressing challenges like trust, security, and human factors. Tune in to explore the potential of AI to reshape software development and learn how to use these tools responsibly.

Sponsored by OWL Cyber Defense, leaders in secure data transfer solutions for critical networks.

New: Building a Stronger Team: How Data is Transforming Workforce Development in the Public Sector

October 29th, 2024  |  48 mins 28 secs

ai, cybersecurity, marketing, public sector, talent management, us army, workforce management

In this episode, host Carolyn Ford sits down with Kris Saling, Director of Talent Analytics and Data Strategy for the U.S. Army, to dive into her new book, Data-Driven Talent Management. Kris shares how data is changing the game when it comes to recruitment, retention, and employee engagement. We discuss practical ways leaders can use analytics to build stronger teams and keep top talent motivated. If you're looking for actionable insights on how data can transform the way we work, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

Episode 85: Exploring AI Trends and Cybersecurity Evolution in the Federal Tech Landscape with Jason Miller

April 10th, 2024  |  46 mins 2 secs

Episode 84: So What?: Understanding Disinformation and Election Integrity with Hillary Coover

March 27th, 2024  |  40 mins 39 secs

Episode 83: Advancing USPTO's Mission: Insights from Deputy CIO Deborah Stephens

March 13th, 2024  |  45 mins 9 secs

Episode 82: Beyond Compliance: Elevating Cybersecurity Practices with Travis Rosiek

February 28th, 2024  |  42 mins 24 secs

Episode 81: From Special Ops to Cybersecurity: A Veteran's Journey in National Security

February 14th, 2024  |  50 mins 43 secs

Episode 80: Harnessing AI for Cyber Innovation: Insights from Dr. Amy Hamilton at National Defense University

January 31st, 2024  |  45 mins 8 secs