

Let's Talk About (Secur)IT
Philip de Souza
Philip de Souza is the host of Secure (IT) and a cybersecurity veteran with over 30 years of experience. He founded Aurora, leading it to a successful acquisition by Plurilock. Today, Philip is a sought-after keynote speaker and advisor, helping organizations leverage AI and innovative go-to-market strategies.
Deeply committed to philanthropy, Philip co-founded Ainiti (ainiti.org) to support girls' education globally and serves on multiple business boards including the US Chamber’s Small Business Council. When not dissecting the future of tech, he can be for his Harley near his home in LA.
Deeply committed to philanthropy, Philip co-founded Ainiti (ainiti.org) to support girls' education globally and serves on multiple business boards including the US Chamber’s Small Business Council. When not dissecting the future of tech, he can be for his Harley near his home in LA.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 30, 2024 • 36min
Innovation and Cybersecurity: A Conversation with Todd Greenwald
This podcast welcomes Todd Greenwald, CEO of Heartland Computers, who shares his unconventional journey from Second City improv classes to leading a tech company in the supply chain sector.
Todd discusses the importance of creativity, communication, and listening in both improv and business. He emphasizes leveraging unique technology like barcode scanning, RFID, and AI to improve operational efficiency in industries such as manufacturing, trucking, and warehousing.
The conversation covers cybersecurity risks in operational technology, the importance of balancing creativity with business acumen, and the value of listening to customers.
Todd also shares personal anecdotes, like his passion for boating and his improv-influenced 'yes, and' approach to problem-solving and leadership.

Aug 21, 2024 • 59min
Generations in Conversation: Exploring the Unique Bonds Between Fathers and Sons
This podcast episode features an engaging and heartwarming father-son conversation, hosted by Philip de Souza, with guests Edward de Souza, Ronnie Dalgado, and Riley Dalgado.
The discussion kicks off with light banter and transitions into deeper topics such as upbringing, career stories, familial relationships, and personal superpowers. The fathers and sons reminisce about personal anecdotes, share life lessons, express their passions, and delve into the unique dynamics of Indian-American families.
The episode wraps up with a fun rapid-fire segment and reflections on the invaluable bonds of family and legacy.

Jul 30, 2024 • 54min
Securing the Future of Cybersecurity: PKI, Quantum Computing & Beyond with Tim Hollebeek
In this episode of the SecurIT podcast, Philip de Souza is joined by Timothy Hollebeek, a veteran in the field of computer security with over 20 years of experience. Timothy shares his journey, including his contributions to DARPA-funded security research and his pivotal role in industry standards bodies like the CA/Browser Forum. As a leading figure at DigiCert, Timothy discusses the evolution and current trends in cybersecurity, focusing on the vital importance of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and the emerging threats posed by quantum computing.
Timothy explains the pressing need for upgrading cryptographic systems to safeguard against future quantum threats and delves into the timeline for quantum computing's potential disruption of existing encryption methods. He emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts in establishing robust cybersecurity standards and highlights the role of AI in error correction for quantum computers.
Beyond the technical aspects, Timothy touches on the significance of personal growth, resilience, and maintaining traditional values in the fast-paced world of technology. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities in the cybersecurity landscape from a seasoned expert’s perspective.

Jun 20, 2024 • 32min
Hackers and Defenders: The Ransomware Battle, Podcast Philip with Steve Stasiukonis
Steve Stasiukonis is the Managing Partner of Secure Network Technologies, specializing in Penetration Testing, Information Security Risk Assessments, Incident Response, and Digital Forensic Investigations. An expert in Social Engineering, Steve has successfully conducted pretexting, phishing, and physical compromises of secure facilities. He holds numerous security certifications and contributes to Information Week magazine and DarkReading.com
In this episode of 'Secure IT,' host Philip engages in an in-depth conversation with Steve. They explore Steve's extensive experience in cybersecurity, discussing topics like the dark web, intelligence gathering, penetration testing, and the evolving threat of ransomware. Steve shares fascinating stories from his career, including real-life examples of security breaches. The discussion also covers understanding threat actor psychology, staying updated on cybersecurity news, and using advanced tools and techniques for anonymity and security on the dark web. Steve emphasizes the sophisticated nature of modern cyber threats and the crucial role of skilled professionals in combating them.

May 28, 2024 • 47min
The Privacy Paradigm: Blair Dawson on the Confluence of Law and Cybersecurity
Blair Dawson is an accomplished legal and business leader with a focus on cybersecurity and data privacy. With extensive experience in representing international clients and managing compliance across various regulatory frameworks, she has served in roles including General Counsel and International Claims Management, specializing in risk management and insurance coverage. Blair teaches Data Privacy at Chicago-Kent College of Law, mentors in the WiCyS program, holds a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, and has several IAPP certifications.
This "SecurIT" podcast episode features a discussion with Blair Dawson, exploring her legal career centered on data security and privacy. They discuss challenges posed by regulations like GDPR against the backdrop of AI's data needs. Blair recounts key career moments, emphasizing the value of seizing emerging opportunities like cyber insurance early on. The conversation covers the necessity of cyber insurance, navigating U.S. privacy laws, and potential conflicts between AI advancements and privacy regulations, concluding with Blair's personal commitment to mentoring and education in cybersecurity.

Apr 16, 2024 • 45min
Unveiling Offensive Cybersecurity | Philip with Carter McKelvain
Dive deep into the world of offensive cybersecurity in this exciting episode with Philip and Carter McKelvain, Senior Offensive Security Engineer at Third Wave Innovations. Explore Carter's unconventional journey, including experiences at the NSA and unique red team engagements. Discover future trends in AI for security and the importance of safeguarding data privacy. Join the conversation on offensive security strategies, human elements in security, personal passions, and share your feedback with us. Tune in for expert insights and engaging discussions!

Mar 25, 2024 • 23min
Cybersecurity Threat Landscape - Decryption of Ransomware, Threat Actor Psychology and the Future of Cybersecurity with Brett Callow
In the latest Secur(IT) podcast episode, Philip and Brett Callow (Threat Analyst @ Emsisoft) delve into the cybersecurity threat landscape, discussing the industry's current state, cyber attack trends, Emsisoft's contributions to ransomware decryption, the psychology of threat actors, and the future of cybersecurity. They highlight the criticality of fundamental security measures, the urgency to expand the cybersecurity workforce, the dynamic nature of cyber threats, and advanced defenses like biometrics and multi-factor authentication. Join them for an in-depth exploration of these topics.

Feb 24, 2024 • 43min
Cybersecurity Trends in the AI Era- Exploring AI, Cybersecurity, and the Rich Tapestry of Tech Literacy with Aron Hsiao
In this insightful conversation, Philip de Souza, the host, talks with Aron Hsiao, VP of Marketing at Plurilock. The discussion is primarily centered around the impact of AI, cyber security trends, and the relevance of tech literacy in our evolving digital world. The podcast also delves into the personal career experiences of Aron, fostering a conversation that's not just intellectually stimulating, but also peppered with fun. From Aron's fascination for mechanical wristwatches to his perspectives shaped by his multicultural background, the podcast promises an engaging blend of professional insights and personal anecdotes. Tune in as Philip navigates through this enlightening conversation with Aron, exploring career advice, AI, SMB cyber security, and life lessons.

Jan 26, 2024 • 1h 3min
Father and Daughter Holiday Podcast Episode
In this Father & Daughter holiday special episode of the Secure IT podcast we have blended family with professional insights. Joined by my exceptional daughter Emily de Souza, family friend and accomplished business leader Agnelo Fernandes, and his wonderfully talented daughters Nicole and Celeste Fernandes - we dove deep into our unique career paths, our culture, and experiences as immigrants. We shared perspectives from our respective journeys, explored the significance of maintaining cultural values, with plenty of humor along the way. This episode is not just about careers, but about life, relationships, and the power of heritage. You wouldn't want to miss this personal yet enlightening discussion.

Dec 28, 2023 • 45min
Empowering a Strong Team: Discussing Efficiency, Motivation & Cybersecurity with Mark Debinski
Join Philip, the host of 'Secure IT', as he engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Mark Debinski, founder and President of Bluewater Advisory, renowned for their leadership in organizational development, talent coaching, and succession planning. This episode delves into the critical intersection of leadership skills and cybersecurity.
🌟 Key Highlights:
- Effective Team Management: Dive into the nuances of team handling, where effective communication, empathy, and trust-building play pivotal roles. Discover how assessment tools like DISC can revolutionize team dynamics.
- Cybersecurity in a Remote World: Unpack the challenges and solutions in cybersecurity, especially in work-from-home setups. Learn about the importance of secure networks, technological advancements, and the concept of 'friction-free' user experience.
- Navigating Employee Turnover: Address the challenges companies face in retaining institutional knowledge amid the trend of short-term employment stints.
- Personal Insights: Enjoy lighter moments as Philip and Mark share personal hobbies like running, saltwater fishing, and meditation, drawing parallels to their professional ethos.
- Cultural Touchpoints: Delve into music discussions, including Jimmy Buffett, and literary references like Mark Twain, adding depth to the conversation.
- Inspirational Wisdom: Conclude with a profound biblical quote reflecting Mark's philosophy of giving back and paying it forward in both life and career.
Tune in for an enriching session that blends professional insights with personal anecdotes, offering a unique perspective on leadership and cybersecurity.


