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On the show
Recent episodes
Defending the Kids: DNS, Filters, and the Fight for Safer Schools
May 22, 2026
57m 40s
Protective DNS and the Future of Cyber Defense Architecture
May 8, 2026
45m 44s
Why DNS Is Your First Line of Cyber Defense
Apr 24, 2026
45m 27s
The Psychology Behind a Cyber Breach and the Leaders Who Survive It
Apr 10, 2026
49m 29s
How to Think, Not What to Think: Raising Resilient Minds in a Tech-Driven World
Mar 20, 2026
47m 10s
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/22/26 |  Defending the Kids: DNS, Filters, and the Fight for Safer Schools | What happens when a childhood curiosity for computers turns into a mission to protect the next generation online? Tom Newton shares the path from experimenting with modems and BBS systems in the early days of computing to defending schools and students against modern cyber threats. The discussion goes deep into digital safety, BYOD risks, VPN abuse, AI-generated evasion techniques, and why protecting young people online requires more than just technology. The conversation also explores the human side of cybersecurity— curiosity, mentorship, freedom, responsibility, and the challenge of balancing privacy with protection in a permanently recorded world. Whether you're in cybersecurity, education, parenting, or technology leadership, this discussion highlights why digital defense today is ultimately about people. Key Discussion Points 02:06 – How Tom got into technology04:26 – Early hacking culture, modems & BBS systems06:40 – Switching from chemistry to computer science10:45 – Discovering cybersecurity through a worm outbreak13:26 – Finding Smoothwall & becoming a defender16:41 – The importance of mentors and “Johnnys” in life19:22 – Growing up before everything was permanently recorded23:21 – The challenge of protecting kids online24:45 – Peer-to-peer abuse inside productivity tools26:00 – How students bypass filters and hide games28:00 – Why content filtering matters more than URL filtering29:27 – Why keeping kids safe takes a community32:00 – Balancing exploration, freedom, and protection33:24 – Privacy vs child safety online37:33 – UNDERMINR and the discovery process39:00 – Free VPNs, malware, and harmful advertising42:00 – Sexualized ads and harmful online ecosystems44:24 – Why UNDERMINR changes defensive assumptions48:35 – How Smoothwall and Linewize defend against it49:37 – The future of privacy, trust, and visibility online Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on cybersecurity, technology, and digital defense💬 Comment with your biggest takeaway from the discussion🔗 Share this with someone working in tech, education, or online safety #CyberSecurity #OnlineSafety #DigitalDefense #CyberDefense #Privacy #EducationTechnology #InfoSec #AI #Networking #TechnologyLeadership #Podcast #CyberAwareness | 57m 40s | ||||||
| 5/8/26 |  Protective DNS and the Future of Cyber Defense Architecture | What started as the “phonebook of the internet” is now one of the most critical layers in cybersecurity. In this episode of The Defender’s Log, David Redekop sits down with Cricket Liu—often called the godfather of DNS—to unpack how DNS evolved from a trusted utility into a frontline security control. From the early days of DNS and BIND to the rise of protective DNS, threat intelligence, and zero trust architectures, this conversation traces the real story behind modern network defense. Key Discussion Points 00:00 From “phonebook” to frontline defense: why DNS became critical to security02:20 The origins of protective DNS and response policy zones (RPZ)05:00 Why many organizations still run DNS “wide open”06:30 The evolution of threat intelligence: from feeds to analytics-driven detection09:00 How passive DNS data powers modern security insights12:30 AI’s impact on attackers: customized malware and evasion tactics13:30 DNS encryption (DoT, DoH, DoQ): privacy vs. visibility tradeoffs16:00 Where encryption matters most (and where it may not)20:40 Why protective DNS is still the most overlooked security layer23:30 The risks of “log-only” mode and missed prevention opportunities25:20 Zero Trust DNS and controlling where devices can connect29:50 DNSSEC adoption: why it’s uneven and what it really protects34:00 What we’d change about DNS if we could redesign it today37:00 Why DNS still works 40+ years later40:10 Advice for the next generation: no gatekeepers, no excuses42:20 AI vs. human curiosity: what actually creates breakthroughs At its core, this episode is about one idea: there’s no secret sauce. The tools, the knowledge, and the mechanisms are already available. The difference comes down to how we use them. If you work in security, networking, or IT leadership, this is a grounded, practical look at where DNS fits in the fight—and why it matters more than ever. Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video if it changed how you think about DNS security🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations with leaders shaping cybersecurity💬 Comment: What’s your biggest takeaway—or where is your DNS strategy falling short?🔗 Share this with someone responsible for network or security architecture #CyberSecurity #DNS #NetworkSecurity #ZeroTrust #ThreatIntelligence #InfoSec #AI #CyberDefense #DataSecurity #SecurityArchitecture #TheDefendersLog | 45m 44s | ||||||
| 4/24/26 |  Why DNS Is Your First Line of Cyber Defense | Most security conversations focus on firewalls, endpoints, and threat detection. Very few start where many attacks begin. That’s why this conversation with Chris Buijs stood out. We unpack why DNS remains one of the most underinvested—and misunderstood—layers in cybersecurity, how automation can strengthen defense (or quietly introduce risk), and why resilient architecture starts with treating foundational infrastructure as strategic. Chris brings decades of perspective spanning networking, DNS, automation, observability, and cyber defense. If you care about Zero Trust, resilience, architecture, or the future of defensive infrastructure, this one goes deep. Key Talking Points 00:02:11 – Meaning of “20” & Amsterdam Identity 00:03:00 – Language & Tech Culture (English in Tech) 00:07:38 – Chris’s Origin Story (Early Tech Journey) 00:11:00 – Evolution of Networks (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP) 00:14:00 – DNS Becomes a Core Focus 00:19:07 – Downtime & “It’s Always DNS” Insight 00:22:00 – Organizational Challenges Around DNS 00:25:00 – Underinvestment in DNS & Infrastructure 00:26:25 – Automation vs Security (DevSecOps Shift) 00:31:21 – Internet Scanning (Shodan, Census, Exposure) 00:34:00 – DNS & NTP Attack Vectors 00:36:39 – Timeless Security Principle (Access Lists) 00:39:05 – Final Advice (DNS in Security Strategy) 00:40:14 – Conversation Wrap-Up If this conversation challenged how you think about cyber defense: 👍 Like this podcast 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on cyber leadership and resilient architecture💬 Comment with your biggest takeaway from the discussion🔗 Share this with someone responsible for security, networking, or infrastructure strategy #CyberSecurity #DNS #ZeroTrust #NetworkSecurity #CyberDefense #Automation #Infosec #DigitalResilience #SecurityArchitecture #DevSecOps #ThreatDetection #DefendersLog | 45m 27s | ||||||
| 4/10/26 |  The Psychology Behind a Cyber Breach and the Leaders Who Survive It | Cybersecurity is technical. But the humans behind it? That's where it gets complicated. Nim Nadarajah—CISO and managing partner from Critical Matrix, and one of the sharpest minds in the industry—sits down with host David Redekop for a conversation that goes far beyond firewalls and frameworks. From the psychology of a breach victim who no longer knows who to trust, to cutting a client's SIEM costs by millions through process, not tools, this episode is a masterclass in what it actually takes to protect an organization in today's threat landscape. Nim shares the story behind crowdsourcing the discovery of a gold mine (yes, really), why your crown jewels are probably already inside an AI you didn't approve, and what a five-year-old opening the kitchen sink cabinet taught him about zero trust security. Whether you're a CISO, an MSP, a business owner, or someone who just wants to understand what's actually at stake with agentic AI—this one is for you. Key Discussion Points 00:00 — Intro: Welcome to The Defender's Log 01:34 — Meet Nim Nadarajah: CISO & Managing Partner, Critical Matrix 02:00 — RSAC 2025 recap: 50,000 people, 30,000 steps, and emotional overload 03:18 — The stigma of being hacked: Is the "wall of shame" finally coming down? 05:00 — Competence, confidence, and capability: The 3 Cs of incident readiness 06:04 — Psychology of a breach: The human side of incident response 09:36 — "Who can I trust?" (What it really feels like to be a cyber victim) 12:10 — Nim's origin story: From high school library networks to corporate Canada 15:00 — The Goldcorp Challenge: Crowdsourcing a gold mine before crowdsourcing was a thing 20:31 — Process vs. tools: Why the blank page doesn't care what app you're using 23:00 — AI is everywhere and it's only as good as what you feed it 24:25 — Agentic AI, crown jewels & protecting your intellectual property 26:33 — Shadow AI, 800 firewall rules, and the free-for-all that already happened 29:09 — Zero trust explained through a kitchen sink (and a curious five-year-old) 33:22 — The SIEM transformation that saved millions and paid for itself in a month 37:36 — Dashboard fatigue: Why leaders need signal, not more screens 39:00 — Agentic SOC: Fearfully excited 41:02 — 29 employees, one human: The pure agentic company Nim met at RSAC 43:26 — Vibe coding is real: A salesperson built a privacy app with zero coding experience 46:00 — Ideas are approaching zero value—execution is everything now 46:57 — One sentence for the next generation: "The power of your ideas haven't been created yet." 👍 If this hit home, give it a like — it helps more people find these conversations🔔 Follow The Defender's Log so you don't miss the next one💬 Drop a comment — where are you on the process vs. tools debate?🔗 Tag someone in security or leadership who needs to hear this #CyberSecurity #CISO #IncidentResponse #AIRisk #AgenticAI #ZeroTrust #SIEM #ManagedSecurity #CyberLeadership #DataGovernance #CrownJewels #TechStrategy #ProcessOverTools #CyberResilience #TheDefendersLog #Podcast #CyberPodcast #MSP #InfoSec #DigitalTransformation #AIGovernance #CybersecurityLeadership #ToolFatigue #CyberAwareness #RSAC2025 | 49m 29s | ||||||
| 3/20/26 |  How to Think, Not What to Think: Raising Resilient Minds in a Tech-Driven World | The future of cybersecurity isn’t just about tools—it’s about how we think. In this conversation, David Redekop sits down with Mitch Prior to unpack what really matters in modern security: from default-deny strategies and local data control to the growing role of AI in filtering signal from noise. What emerges isn’t just a technical discussion—it’s a philosophy. They explore why certifications don’t always equal capability, how curiosity beats credentials, and why the next generation must learn how to think, not just what to think. As AI accelerates everything around us, the real edge belongs to those who can stay grounded, think critically, and build with intention. This is a conversation about discipline, trade-offs, and staying ahead without losing control. Key Discussion Points 01:37 – Meeting Mitch & early Zero Trust conversations03:00 – How we judge people: heuristics vs real understanding05:00 – Certifications vs real-world thinking07:00 – Why learning how to think matters more than ever08:50 – The risk of outsourcing thinking to AI11:56 – Mitch’s origin story in tech14:30 – Privacy, surveillance, and personal responsibility16:00 – The trade-off of having a public voice17:00 – The rise of “AI wranglers”18:50 – Cloud vs local: control vs convenience22:00 – Why default-deny changes everything24:50 – The evolution (and fragility) of the internet31:30 – AI accelerating vulnerabilities33:30 – Real-world AI use case: smarter security cameras38:00 – Extracting signal from noise40:50 – The human edge in an AI-driven world41:30 – Raising the next generation in a tech-first world45:00 – Final thoughts: staying adaptable If this conversation sparked a new way of thinking:👍 Like the video🔔 Subscribe for more real, unfiltered conversations💬 Share your biggest takeaway in the comments🔗 Pass this along to someone who needs to hear it #CyberSecurity #AI #ZeroTrust #DataPrivacy #InfoSec #ArtificialIntelligence #TechLeadership #DigitalSecurity #FutureOfWork #Leadership | 47m 10s | ||||||
| 3/6/26 |  Defense Before Offense: Leadership, Risk, and the Cost of Bad Decisions | Cybersecurity and military defense share the same fundamental principle: you can’t go on offense if you don’t have a secure perimeter. Steven Elliott’s journey—from a farming community in Kansas to the U.S. Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment, and later into finance and cybersecurity leadership—reveals how disciplined thinking, clear communication, and preparation for uncertainty shape strong decision-makers. Markets are unpredictable. Technology is complex. Threats—both financial and digital—evolve constantly. The real advantage comes from understanding risk, simplifying complexity, and building systems that help people make better decisions. This conversation explores the lessons learned from military operations, financial advisory work, and cybersecurity leadership—and why defense, preparation, and clarity matter more than ever in today’s digital world. Key Discussion Points 00:00 – Why no one can predict financial markets01:00 – Welcome to The Defender’s Log01:28 – Introducing Steven Elliot03:10 – Growing up in Kansas and studying business05:13 – How 9/11 changed Steven’s life path05:36 – Entering finance before the 2008 financial crisis07:17 – An unexpected entry into cybersecurity09:00 – Why simplifying complex ideas matters11:40 – Learning to communicate through storytelling13:10 – Helping clients understand risk and decisions16:20 – The connection between military defense and cybersecurity19:50 – Joining the Army Rangers22:20 – Defense before offense: military priorities of work24:10 – Why planning matters when things go wrong27:30 – A mission that changed everything31:00 – Leadership lessons from crisis and failure35:30 – Forgiveness, responsibility, and resilience41:00 – Leadership, truth, and transparency under pressure46:30 – The consequences of narrative and public attention50:00 – Lessons for leadership and organizations53:00 – AI, technology, and leadership in uncertain times55:30 – Final thoughts: curiosity over fear If this conversation made you think differently about risk, leadership, or cybersecurity: 👍 Like the video so more people can find it🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations with leaders shaping security and technology💬 Share your biggest takeaway in the comments🔗 Pass this episode along to someone navigating risk, leadership, or cybersecurity #CyberSecurity #Leadership #RiskManagement #MilitaryLeadership #DecisionMaking #CyberDefense #BusinessLeadership #SecurityStrategy #TechnologyLeadership #Podcast | 56m 46s | ||||||
| 2/20/26 |  Speed, Risk, and Responsibility in the Age of AI | Cybersecurity used to be about perimeter defenses and patch cycles. Now it’s about decision speed, trust, and restraint—especially when AI is involved. This conversation with Rafael Ramírez moves through decades of engineering experience, real-world incident response, and the uncomfortable reality that AI is scaling faster than governance, policy, and human intuition. What stands out isn’t hype—it’s discipline. How leaders think about risk, how zero trust becomes a mindset (not a framework), and why AI security fails most often when it’s rushed instead of designed. Key Discussion Points 00:00 – Cybersecurity, curiosity, and being “born an engineer”04:30 – Early systems, reverse engineering, and learning by breaking things10:45 – The moment cybersecurity became real: incident response under pressure17:10 – AI security for small and mid-sized organizations (what actually matters)18:40 – Governance, data, hygiene, and why fundamentals still win22:15 – Why AI is moving faster than strategy can keep up25:00 – The danger of shipping AI before it’s ready29:00 – Deterministic vs. non-deterministic systems (and why it matters)33:20 – Zero Trust as a mindset, not a checkbox37:00 – Guardrails, outbound control, and constraining AI behavior41:30 – AI as a double-edged sword47:10 – Local models, cloud swings, and the return of the edge52:00 – Trust is built over time—just like early firewalls54:40 – Technology, trust, and talent: keeping people at the center If you’re building, defending, or deploying AI inside real organizations, this one will challenge how you think about control, trust, and responsibility. Join the conversation: 👍 Like this episode to support the channel 🔔 Subscribe for more real‑world security insights 💬 Share your biggest AI takeaway in the comments 🔗 Send this episode to a colleague or friend who works in network security #CyberSecurity #AISecurity #ZeroTrust #AILeadership #Technology #RiskManagement #AgenticAI #TheDefendersLog #AdamNetworks #SecurityArchitecture #RiskManagement #CloudSecurity #DefensiveSecurity | 58m 28s | ||||||
| 2/6/26 |  Inside the DNS Battlefield: Malware, Tunnels & the Future of Network Defense | Attackers are getting smarter—and the protocol they rely on most isn’t what you think. In this powerful conversation, David Redekop and Johannes Weber break down how modern malware abuses DNS, why attackers prefer DNS tunneling and exfiltration, and the defensive strategies every organization needs in 2026. Johannes brings decades of hands‑on experience as a network security specialist, consultant, packet analyst, and educator. Together, they trace the full threat landscape around DNS and explore the evolving tools, behaviors, and techniques shaping the defender’s playbook.⏱️ Chapters & Key Moments 00:00 – Why 90% of malware still depends on DNS 01:00 – A fun start: German names, dual identities & cultural overlaps 03:00 – Johannes’ origin story: LAN parties → network engineer → security consultant 06:00 – You don’t need to code to thrive in network security 07:00 – DNS basics: recursive resolvers vs. authoritative servers 08:00 – How attackers abuse DNS “as designed” 10:30 – Lookalike domains & deceptive URL patterns 11:00 – DGAs (Domain Generation Algorithms) explained 12:00 – Newly registered vs. newly observed domains 14:00 – Aging domains & reputation‑based defense 15:00 – DNS exfiltration: how attackers sneak data out 16:00 – Step‑by‑step breakdown of DNS exfiltration 18:00 – DNS tunneling: when attackers turn DNS into a VPN 19:00 – Why signature‑based defenses fail 21:00 – Deep Query Inspection & entropy analysis 22:00 – Where DNS security belongs in your architecture 24:00 – TXT, NULL, A/AAAA abuse & blocking strategies 27:00 – DNS spoofing & cache poisoning 30:00 – DNSSEC: authentication vs. confidentiality 33:00 – DOH/DOT: privacy vs. visibility 36:00 – TLS interception & enterprise tradeoffs 39:00 – Securing roaming users in a VPN‑less world 41:00 – What Pi‑hole solves at home (and what it won’t) 43:00 – Johannes’ favorite tools: DNSViz, DNSDiag, DNSPing 44:30 – The Ultimate PCAP collection (15 years, 90+ protocols) 46:00 – Why Johannes teaches — and the next generation of defenders 48:00 – Closing thoughts & community resources 🛠️ Mentioned Tools & Resources DNSViz – DNS trust visualization DNSDiag / DNSPing – Resolver latency + diagnostic toolkit Iodine / DNScat2 / DNS‑tunnel tools – Examples of DNS tunneling tech Ultimate PCAP Collection (Johannes’ blog) – 15 years of protocols for Wireshark trainingIf this helped sharpen your defender instincts: 👍 Like this video to support the channel 🔔 Subscribe for more real‑world security insights 💬 Share your biggest DNS takeaway in the comments 🔗 Send this episode to a teammate or friend who works in network security Together, we make the internet harder to attack — and easier to defend.#CyberSecurity #DNS #DNSSecurity #MalwareAnalysis #DNSExfiltration #DNSTunneling #DNSSEC #DOH #NetworkDefense #PacketAnalysis #Infosec #SecurityPodcast #BlueTeam | 49m 07s | ||||||
| 1/24/26 |  The Defender’s Mindset: Why Proactive Security Beats Detection | The odds remain badly stacked against the defender. As we hurtle toward a digital ecosystem populated by a trillion AI agents, the Universal Threat Ecosystem (UTE) is expanding at an asymmetric rate. The traditional security stack—obsessed with detection and response—is fundamentally broken because it requires a "Patient Zero." It waits for the compromise to occur before it rings the alarm.In this episode of The Defender’s Log, David Redekop sits down with Francois, CISO and partner at ADAMnetworks, to dismantle the "Whack-a-mole" approach to cybersecurity. From the high-stakes world of film production and technical diving to the front lines of cyber warfare, Francois shares how a life spent mitigating physical risk informed a "Default Deny-all" posture.The Asymmetric ChallengeWe are currently witnessing the rise of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) in the hands of the adversary. Initial Access Brokers (IAB) and Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) operators are using the defender’s own AI tools to train malware to be invisible. If your strategy relies on identifying "known bad," you have already lost.Why "True Proactive" Defense is Mandatory:Neutralize Egress: If the malware cannot "call home" to its Command & Control (C2), the ATTACK IS DISRUPTED.Eliminate the Patient Zero Requirement: By moving the security boundary to the DNS layer with a Zero Trust Resolver, we stop connections to unknown and unverified entities.Sovereign Capability: Reclaim control over your network’s connectivity. Stop letting the internet happen to you and start shaping it.Detection is a post-mortem. Prevention is sovereignty.Francois and David explore the human element of the "Sheepdog mentality" and why the next generation of Blue Teamers must move beyond the application layer (Layer 7) and harden the foundation of connectivity itself.Key Technical Concepts Discussed:Zero Trust Connectivity (ZTC): Moving beyond identity to strict connection control.OT & IoT Vulnerabilities: Why agentless protection is the only path forward for critical infrastructure.Preemptive Defense: Cutting off the attacker's resources before the infrastructure is even fully deployed.In a world of a trillion AI agents, where the adversary uses your own defenses to train their attacks, can you afford to maintain a "Detect and Respond" posture? At what point does the convenience of an "open" network become an existential liability for your organization? | 40m 42s | ||||||
| 1/9/26 |  27 Years of Defending the Web: Inside Peter Lowe’s Blocklist | Defending the Internet, One Domain at a TimeIn this episode of The Defender’s Log, host David Redekop sits down with Peter Lowe, the creator and maintainer of one of the internet’s most widely used blocklists, a resource quietly protecting users for over 27 years.What started as a personal effort to block intrusive ads has evolved into a critical layer of modern cybersecurity infrastructure. Peter shares the technical, ethical, and human realities of maintaining a blocklist at internet scale, from DNS-based blocking and privacy challenges to dealing with criticism, threats, and constant technological change.The conversation also explores unexpected territory: how language, culture, and communication shape security, why defaults in operating systems matter more than most users realize, and how Apple, Microsoft, and modern platforms influence privacy at scale.This episode isn’t just about blocking domains; it’s about trust, responsibility, and defending the open internet without owning it. | 55m 16s | ||||||
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| 12/26/25 |  The Architect of the Internet on the Future of Trust | Dr. Paul Mockapetris | Inventor, DNS | The internet is a collision of legacy protocols and modern asymmetric threats. In this episode of The Defenders Log, I sit down with the man who built the foundation: Dr. Paul Mockapetris, the inventor of the Domain Name System (DNS).We don't just reminisce about the 1980s; we dissect how the Universal Threat Ecosystem (UTE) has weaponized the very decentralization that made the internet possible. The failure today does not come from gross negligence, but the imperfect application of the current stack. The odds remain badly stacked against the defender. While generic tools focus on detection, which is fundamentally too late, this conversation pivots toward Zero Trust Connectivity (ZTC).Strategic Deep Dive:The "Whack-a-Mole" Reality: Why chasing RaaS and IABs through traditional feeds is a losing game.Default Deny-All: Dr. Mockapetris explains his "day job"—making sure DNS doesn't work when you don't want it to.The DoH/DoT Trap: How hyperscalers are centralizing authority and eroding Sovereign Capabilities.Agentic AI: Preparing for a world with trillions of automated agents jabbering across your infrastructure.If you want to survive the next evolution of cyber warfare, you must shut down egress to the attacker. It is time to move beyond simple resolution and toward a hardened state of prevention.#CyberSecurity #ZeroTrust #DNS #ZTC #ThreatIntelligence #ADAMnetworks #InfoSec #CyberWarfare #PaulMockapetris #SovereignCapability #DefaultDeny | 59m 27s | ||||||
| 12/12/25 |  The Hidden Layer of Cybersecurity: Andreas Taudte on DNS & DDI Defense | In this episode of The Defender’s Log, host David Redekop sits down with DNS and DDI expert Andreas Taudte, who brings more than 16 years of experience in network security, DNS architecture, and threat mitigation.Together, they unpack the real challenges organizations face with DNS, from evasion techniques and tunneling threats to the growing complexity of legacy systems and hybrid networks. Andreas explains why DNS predictability is essential, how DDI (DNS, DHCP, IPAM) has evolved, and what enterprises must do to build resilient, zero-trust-aligned network foundations.This conversation is packed with real-world stories, practical insights, and actionable strategies for anyone responsible for securing modern infrastructures. If you touch networking, cybersecurity, or cloud architecture; this deep dive is for you.Timestamps - 00:00 Introduction to DNS and DDI 01:20 Meet Andreas: A Deep Dive into DNS 06:22 The Journey into DNS and DDI 06:49 Understanding DDI: DNS, DHCP, and IPAM 09:53 Challenges and Stories from the Field 22:21 Security and Management in DNS and DDI 28:13 External Audits and DNS Management 30:16 Infrastructure as Code and Network Configuration 31:15 Building a Strong Foundation for Networks 31:30 The Reality of Temporary Solutions 32:00 Buzzwords and IT Management 33:34 Zero Trust and Default Deny All 34:25 DNS Threats and Exploits 44:22 Complex DNS Evasion Techniques 46:49 Combining Security Layers for Better Defense 52:03 Predictable DNS Resolution 54:17 Final Thoughts and Advice #DNS #DNSSecurity #DDI #Cybersecurity #NetworkSecurity #ZeroTrust #ITInfrastructure #CyberThreats #IPAM #DHCP #SecurityArchitecture #BlueTeam #NetworkEngineering | 57m 45s | ||||||
| 11/28/25 |  The Dark Truth About Modern Cyber Threats | Joshua Domagalski, CISO, Astronomer | In this powerful episode, host David Redekop sits down with Joshua Domagalski, Chief Information Security Officer and former offensive operator, to explore the real complexities of modern cyber defense.Joshua opens up about his journey from the military to cybersecurity leadership, the shift from attacking systems to protecting them, and why defending is far more challenging than breaking in.This conversation goes far beyond tools and tactics, it uncovers the human, strategic, and geopolitical layers that shape cybersecurity today.You’ll learn about:Why offensive skills are essential for strong defenseThe truth about AI adoption in security operationsHow insider threats actually workRansomware strategy (not just response)Why experience matters more than certificationsThe real job of a CISO in 2025The importance of humility, discipline, and continuous learningHow geopolitics fuels cyber conflictWhy most breaches originate from human behaviorIf you're a SOC analyst, aspiring CISO, blue team operator, or cybersecurity enthusiast — this episode will reshape how you see the defender’s role.Timestamps - 00:00 Introduction and Early Interests01:00 Welcome to The Defender's Log01:16 Joshua Domagalski's Journey into Cybersecurity02:38 Challenges in Cyber Defense04:19 The Importance of Offensive Skills for Defense05:08 Balancing Proactive and Reactive Defense06:42 AI Adoption and Cybersecurity09:46 The Role of Experience vs. Certification11:39 Joshua's Path to Becoming a CISO14:16 Human Elements in Cybersecurity22:09 Strategies for Insider Threats and Ransomware36:17 Geopolitical Challenges in Cybersecurity39:40 Final Thoughts and Advice40:35 Conclusion and Call to Action#Cybersecurity #CISO #CyberDefense #Infosec #BlueTeam #Ransomware #AIinSecurity #OffensiveSecurity #SecurityLeadership #TheDefendersLog | 41m 09s | ||||||
| 11/14/25 |  Inside DNS Threat Intelligence: Tim Adams on Privacy, Security & Innovation | In this episode of The Defender’s Log, host David Redekop sits down with Tim Adams, DNS threat intelligence expert and founder of ScoutDNS, to uncover the evolving world of DNS security. From his early days running a wireless network integrator to building a resilient DNS resolver service, Tim shares lessons in innovation, resilience, and the art of staying ahead of cyber threats. They discuss everything from DNS over HTTPS (DOH) and threat intelligence to balancing privacy, compliance, and encryption in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Whether you're a cybersecurity professional, MSP, or privacy advocate, this conversation offers an unfiltered look into the next frontier of internet defense.#Cybersecurity #DNS #ThreatIntelligence #DataPrivacy #InternetSecurity #NetworkSecurity #TechInnovation #Encryption #DOH #DOT #ScoutDNS #MSP #CyberDefense #TheDefendersLog #Podcast #Technology #Infosec #DigitalPrivacy #CyberThreats #TechLeadership | 51m 22s | ||||||
| 11/1/25 |  Defending the Digital Frontline: Ransomware, AI, and Real-World Lessons | Alexander Rau | In this gripping episode of The Defender’s Log, host David Redekop sits down with Alexander Rau, Partner in Cybersecurity at KPMG, to explore the intense world of cyber incident response.From ransomware attacks and business email compromises to AI-driven ransom negotiations, Alexander shares firsthand experiences from the cyber frontlines, revealing what really happens when organizations are under digital siege.They discuss the psychological toll of defending under pressure, the ethical dilemmas in paying ransom, and why small and medium businesses remain top targets. Rau also explains how threat intelligence sharing, proactive defense, and human resilience can make the difference between recovery and collapse.This episode is a must-listen for cybersecurity professionals, executives, and anyone curious about how real digital warfare unfolds, and how to stay ahead of it.Timestamps - 00:00 Introduction 01:13 Meet the Guest: Alexander Rau 02:05 The Reality of Cybersecurity Threats 04:32 The Importance of Threat Intelligence Sharing 17:47 Challenges in Cybersecurity for Small and Medium Businesses 23:16 Standardized Unwinding Procedures 24:46 The Human Factor in Incident Response 26:32 Memorable Incidents and Threat Actors 27:13 Ransom Negotiations and AI Involvement 30:31 Ethical Dilemmas in Ransom Payments 33:40 The Evolution of Cybersecurity Practices 41:25 Final Thoughts and Advice | 43m 47s | ||||||
| 10/16/25 |  Cyber Warriors & Digital Shadows: Insights from Canada’s Cybersecurity Leader | Sami Khoury | In this episode of The Defender’s Log, host David Redekop sits down with Sami Khoury, the Head of the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, for an inside look at the battle to protect national infrastructure from unseen digital threats.From his beginnings as a research engineer in 1992 to leading one of Canada’s most critical cybersecurity agencies, Sami shares lessons from three decades of defense — from combating ransomware to promoting “secure-by-design” innovation.Discover how public-private collaboration, education, and technology are shaping the next frontier of digital security. Whether you’re a cybersecurity professional, policymaker, or tech enthusiast, this episode will leave you with a new appreciation for the people protecting the digital realm.🧠 Key Takeaways:Ransomware and the evolution of modern cyber threatsWhy “secure-by-design” is the foundation of cyber resilienceThe power of collaboration between government and private sectorsBuilding a cybersecurity culture through awareness and innovationInsights into the mindset of a lifelong defender of the digital realmTimestamps / Chapters00:00 — The Original Spark: Passion for Problem-Solving 01:01 — Welcome to The Defender’s Log 01:17 — Meet Sami Khoury: Canada’s Cybersecurity Leader 03:34 — The Journey from Engineer to Cyber Chief 06:34 — A Day in the Life of a National Cyber Defender 08:55 — Cyber Policy and the Power of Innovation 12:19 — Inside the Cyber Center: Strategy and Collaboration 28:50 — Ransomware: The Evolving Threat Landscape 34:19 — Building a Culture of Cyber Resilience 40:59 — Recognitions, Reflections, and Lessons Learned 44:42 — A Call to Action: The Future of Cyber Defense | 49m 22s | ||||||
| 10/4/25 |  An Educator’s Guide to DNS Threats with Josh Kuo | Is your company's most critical blind spot hiding in plain sight? While most security teams focus on firewalls and web traffic, attackers are increasingly using the internet's phonebook—the Domain Name System (DNS)—as a secret backdoor for malware delivery, data theft, and command and control.In this episode of The Defenders Log, host David Redekop sits down with cybersecurity educator Josh Kuo from Infoblox to uncover the shocking ways DNS is weaponized. Josh shares jaw-dropping stories from the field, explaining complex threats in a way that anyone can understand. Learn how a simple DNS query can be used to exfiltrate your most sensitive data and how Protective DNS is becoming an essential layer of defense for modern organizations.Whether you're a CISO, a network admin, or just passionate about security, this is a conversation you can't afford to miss.Learn More About Our Guest:Josh Kuo is a leading cybersecurity educator at Infoblox, specializing in DNS security and threat intelligence. Infoblox is a leader in managing and securing DNS, DHCP, and IP address management (DDI) for enterprise networks. Find out more at https://www.infoblox.com00:00 - Intro: The Secret Battles of Cybersecurity00:45 - Welcoming Josh Kuo, Educator at Infoblox01:40 - Josh's Origin Story: From Aspiring Dentist to Network Engineer05:15 - Who Owns DNS? The Ponytail Guy, the Windows Team, or the Network Team?07:30 - "If DNS Works, Everything Works": DNS as the Ultimate Network Health Check10:05 - From the Field to the Classroom: Why Josh Became an Educator12:45 - The First Jaw-Dropping Moment: Discovering Data Theft via DNS13:20 - How DNS Tunneling Works to Exfiltrate Data16:10 - Explained: DNS for Covert Command and Control (C2) Attacks18:00 - When Good Websites Go Bad: Domain Hijacking and Cache Poisoning20:15 - The Immense Challenge of Scaling DNS Security Monitoring21:10 - The Power of Protective DNS and Threat Intelligence Platforms22:00 - Final Thoughts & Outro | 57m 12s | ||||||
| 9/19/25 |  A Developer’s Guide to Life: Passion, Legacy & The ”Foggy Staircase” of a Tech Career | Will Earp | "Am I going to spend my life trying to get the thing that I need, or am I going to spend my lifedoing the thing that I want?"In this deeply insightful episode of The Defender's Log, host David Redekop sits down with WillEarp, a veteran developer whose career journey began with an Amiga 600 in 1998. Theyexplore the profound philosophy that has guided Will's path from a freelance web developer to alead engineer at a charity dedicated to online child safety.Will shares his belief that a career isn't a clear path but a "foggy staircase," where you can onlysee one or two steps ahead. He explains how choosing to follow passion over apaycheck—whether running his own business for a decade or contributing to open-sourceprojects—led to unexpected doors opening, including his involvement with the prestigiousInternet Engineering Task Force (IETF).This conversation goes beyond code and cyber defense, touching on the importance of legacy,the unique challenges of protecting children in the digital age, and the simple but powerfuladvice to find what you love and go do it.In this discussion, you will learn about:● The "Foggy Staircase" approach to navigating your career path.● Pivoting from general web development to a mission-driven role in cybersecurity.● The profound choice between pursuing passion versus financial security.● How open-source work and personal projects can become your greatest career assets.● The unique challenges and responsibilities of protecting children vs. adults online.● Key insights on modern defense, including Zero Trust in DNS.● Invaluable advice for the next generation of cybersecurity defenders.● Why the ultimate goal is building a life and a legacy you can be proud of.Join us for a conversation that will inspire you to think differently about your own career, thechoices you make, and the impact you want to have on the world.Chapters00:00 - Intro01:18 - Welcome & How Will Herp Got Started in Tech05:09 - The "Foggy Staircase" of a Tech Career07:25 - Finding a Mission-Driven Career in Child Safety09:28 - The Difference Between Protecting Kids vs. Adults Online13:27 - Philosophy, Human Nature, and Long-Term Thinking18:44 - Choosing Passion Over Money: The Journey to Open Source21:20 - The British Perspective on Policy and Culture28:18 - Innovations in Cyber Defense: Zero Trust in DNS31:48 - Advice for the Next Generation of Defenders36:07 - Finding Balance in Markets, Technology, and Bitcoin41:34 - Final Message: Find What You Love and Go Do It44:20 - Outro#CareerAdvice #Cybersecurity #SoftwareDevelopment #OpenSource #TechPhilosophy#PassionVsMoney #DeveloperLife #TechCareer #IETF #ZeroTrust #WillEarp #DavidRedekop#adamone #adamnetworks | 42m 55s | ||||||
| 9/5/25 |  Understanding Microsoft Zero Trust DNS with Aditi Patange | In this episode of the Defenders Log, we have Aditi Patange from Microsoft alongside our hosts, David Redekop and Francois from Adam Networks, for an in-depth discussion on Zero Trust DNS, a new enterprise security feature within Windows 11. Aditi shares her background in computer engineering and product management and how his work contributes to cybersecurity. The conversation delves into the origins and motivations behind Zero Trust DNS, its implementation challenges, and its impact on network security. Aditi also emphasizes the importance of infrastructure in modern cybersecurity and the need for organizations to move towards encrypted DNS. The episode concludes with a discussion on the collaboration between Microsoft and Adam Networks to enhance security solutions.Timestamps - 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:47 Aditi's Background and Journey into Cybersecurity01:58 The Importance of Network Security03:13 Challenges and Benefits of Zero Trust DNS07:33 Real-World Applications and Feedback13:50 Government and Enterprise Adoption19:43 Unexpected Benefits of Zero Trust DNS21:59 First Principles Approach to Problem Solving23:22 The Evolution of Technology and Security24:37 Challenges and Integration with Endpoint Protection27:02 Kernel Mode Drivers and Security35:23 The Importance of Infrastructure in Modern Technology36:50 Personal Journey into Technology40:12 The Mission of Zero Trust DNS43:27 Final Thoughts and Future Directions | 46m 33s | ||||||
| 8/22/25 |  Breaking Barriers: IPv6 Adoption and DNS Transformation with Tommy Jensen | In today's episode of the Defender's Log, we welcome special guest Tommy Jensen, an internet technologist with expertise in IPv6, Zero Trust, and standards. The episode covers Jensen's career journey from an AppleCare contractor to a pivotal role in advancing internet technologies. The discussion delves into the importance and challenges of migrating to IPv6, and the need to overcome legacy systems in enterprise networks. Jensen shares insights into his focus on DNS and Zero Trust, stressing the balance between privacy and security. The episode also explores the benefits of encrypted DNS, the drawbacks of TLS termination, and the broader implications for the future of the internet. Finally, Jensen emphasizes the significance of using the internet to connect and understand diverse cultures and circumstances.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:18 Tommy Jensen's Background and Career Path07:09 The Importance of IPv608:00 Challenges and Benefits of IPv6 Adoption18:08 DNS and Zero Trust39:21 The Future of the Internet and Final Thoughts | 47m 48s | ||||||
| 8/8/25 |  Defending the DNS: How Quad9 Protects the Internet | John Todd, CTO - Quad9 | In this episode of 'The Defender's Log,' host David engages in a comprehensive discussion with John Todd, an influential figure in the defense technology space and a key player at Quad9. The conversation covers John's career journey, starting from the early days of commercial internet services to his current role at Quad9. They delve into the importance of DNS in cybersecurity, Quad9's unique approach to protecting users, and the challenges and strategies involved in maintaining a global DNS infrastructure. Key topics include the implementation of zero-trust DNS, the legal hurdles faced by DNS providers, and the innovative protocols aimed at enhancing internet security and privacy. The episode also highlights the vital role of partnerships and the challenges of operating in regions with restrictive import tariffs. Todd emphasizes the importance of privacy and the legal measures in place to protect user data, concluding with a call to potential sponsors to support Quad9's ongoing mission to secure the internet.Timestamps - 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:14 John Todd's Journey in Technology03:14 The Birth of Quad905:08 IBM's Role and Quad9's Growth06:40 Threat Intelligence and Data Sharing11:11 Challenges with False Positives18:46 Global Network Expansion21:46 Difficulties in Equipment Importation26:14 Exploring Early Motivations and Interests27:42 The Evolution of Communication Technologies29:01 Defensive Posture in Communication30:56 Balancing Privacy and Security35:18 Challenges in Network Security40:09 Innovations in DNS and Network Management48:17 Legal and Privacy Considerations51:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | 52m 30s | ||||||
| 7/25/25 |  Cybersecurity Explained: Privacy, Threats, and the Future | Chester Wisniewski | In the inaugural episode of 'The Defender’s Log,' host David Redekop converses with cybersecurity veteran Chester Wisniewski to explore the dynamic field of cybersecurity. They discuss the differentiation between privacy and security, the evolution of hacking from the 1980s to the present, and pivotal moments that reshaped information security. Chet shares anecdotes from his extensive career, offering a deep dive into the challenges and successes of defending against cyber threats. Listeners will learn about the importance of defense-in-depth, the impact of pivotal virus outbreaks, and the emergence of profitable cybercrime. Chet also provides valuable advice on navigating a career in cybersecurity, emphasizing the significance of practical problem-solving and mentorship. Tune in to gain actionable insights and a positive perspective on securing the digital world.Timestamps - 00:00 Introduction01:08 Welcome to the Defender's Log01:47 Guest Introduction: Chet Wisniewski05:21 Early Days of Cybersecurity09:05 Evolution of Cyber Threats15:10 Challenges in Cybersecurity21:08 Personal Stories and Sacrifices25:33 Advice for Aspiring Cyber Defenders33:08 Closing Thoughts and Future Events#Cybersecurity #Infosec #AIethics #HackingHistory #VR #ChetWisniewski #DigitalDefense #PrivacyVsSecurity #TechPodcast #DefendersLog #Cyberwarfare #CyberCrime #FutureOfTech #CyberEthics #EthicalHacking | 36m 11s | ||||||
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