Carolyn Ford
Host of Tech Transforms
Guided by her father’s philosophy to “leave everything and everyone better than you found them,” Carolyn Ford is a passionate leader, doer, and adventurer. With over two decades of marketing experience, Carolyn collaborates with creative, forward-thinking individuals to harness technology for positive change. She excels in helping organizations see how technology can address their toughest challenges through the power of storytelling, driving impact and lasting change.
Carolyn’s journey began in the classroom as an 8th-grade English teacher, transitioning into the tech world as a trainer and instructional designer. From there, she moved into product management and marketing roles, developing a knack for connecting people with technology that advances society. Today, she brings her creativity and innovation to bridge industry and government, working toward a resilient, cohesive society that benefits all communities.
Her adaptive and creative nature has powered impactful marketing initiatives, notably as the creator and host of “To the Point Cybersecurity” and “Tech Transforms.” These podcasts bring together government and industry leaders to discuss critical issues, build relationships, and elevate brands. Carolyn’s work is a testament to her commitment to making a positive difference in every endeavor.
Carolyn Ford has hosted 97 Episodes.
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Prompting the Future: AI, Leadership, and the Military Mindset with Capt. M. Scott Austin, USCG
May 20th, 2025 | 41 mins 53 secs
agentic warfare, ai, prompt engineering
When Capt. Scott Austin hears the phrase "prompt engineering," he thinks about leadership, not syntax. On this episode of Tech Transforms, Carolyn and Scott unpack how military leaders can integrate AI in ways that actually work—starting with empathy, problem definition, and a little R2-D2 wisdom.
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Episode 96: Tech Transforms + ATARC: AI, Oceans, and Innovation with NOAA’s Frank Indiviglio
May 6th, 2025 | 30 mins 1 sec
ai, artificial intelligence, atarc, climate technology, cybersecurity, data science, government innovation, high-performance computing, noaa, ocean robotics
In this special crossover episode with ATARC, I sit down with Frank Indiviglio, Chief Technology Officer at NOAA, to explore how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing our understanding of the planet. From hurricane forecasting to coral reef monitoring, Frank unpacks how AI, data science, and high-performance computing transform vast raw data into real-world impact. We dive into everything from boosting data processing efficiency to balancing open data with cybersecurity—all while showing how cross-sector collaboration drives innovation at NOAA. Don’t miss this fascinating ATARC-powered conversation!
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Zero Trust at the Edge: Securing Data, Devices, and Decisions
April 29th, 2025 | 45 mins 16 secs
ai, cybersecurity, data, iot, zero trust
Randy Clark, cybersecurity strategist and contributor to SIGNAL Magazine, joins Carolyn Ford to explain why the future of secure data lies at the edge. From smart cities to AI-driven infrastructure, Randy breaks down how zero trust data works — and why labeling, encrypting, and governing data from the moment it’s created can change everything. They talk edge AI, data sovereignty, and why trusting your thermostat might be harder than it looks. Plus: why the 1980s weren’t ready for this tech, and how protecting data—not just networks—could reshape public safety and defense.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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Episode 85: Exploring AI Trends and Cybersecurity Evolution in the Federal Tech Landscape with Jason Miller
April 10th, 2024 | 46 mins 2 secs
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Episode 84: So What?: Understanding Disinformation and Election Integrity with Hillary Coover
March 27th, 2024 | 40 mins 39 secs
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Episode 83: Advancing USPTO's Mission: Insights from Deputy CIO Deborah Stephens
March 13th, 2024 | 45 mins 9 secs