Dissecting Popular IT Nerds - podcast cover

Dissecting Popular IT Nerds

Dissecting Popular IT Nerdsdissectingpopularitnerds.com
Leading IT into the future as a business force multiplier. Discover how IT Business Executives are impacting the business world, growing their careers, and influencing end-users without sacrificing work life balance AND never worrying about money again. *****DISCLAIMER***** All views, opinions, and statements made by guests on this show do not represent the beliefs of Phil Howard, or any entity whatsoever with which I have been, am now, or will be affiliated. Any statements, views, random thoughts, or opinions expressed by myself do not necessarily reflect my personal beliefs (could easily be misconstrued) and are not the official policy/position of my agency and affiliated partners. Finally, because human beings are characteristically prone to flaws and mistakes, I warn all listeners to think critically for yourself and seek true knowledge before taking action upon anything.
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Episodes

360- Cyber Crisis turned opportunity with Jason Torrez

Listen now: subscribe and join 1,000s of IT Leaders changing the face of IT. ON THIS EPISODE: ➤ The critical elements of incident response planning➤ Strategic approaches to cyber insurance and vendor alignment➤ Methods for maintaining business operations during cyber events➤ Techniques for communicating with executive leadership➤ Essential partnerships and resources during cyber incidents From Crisis to Opportunity: A Cyber Incident Success Story Experience a deep dive into real-world cyber inci...

May 29, 202540 min

359- Implementing AI With Kevin Kuttin

Listen now: subscribe and join 1,000s of IT Leaders changing the face of IT. ON THIS EPISODE: ➤ Strategic approaches to implementing AI in healthcare technology ➤ Effective methods for retaining top IT talent in today’s market ➤ Building successful hybrid work environments ➤ Bridging knowledge gaps between veteran and new-gen tech professionals ➤ Building authentic relationships across organizational hierarchies From Healthcare Tech to Leadership Wisdom: Kevin Kuttin’s Journey at Regenesis A fas...

May 22, 202551 min

358- AI, Armbars, and Agility by Renard Henry

Renard Henry Join Thousands changing the Mid-Market to Fortune 5000 with a growth mindset. Listen & Subscribe Now… ON THIS EPISODE ➤ How IT managers differ from IT Leaders ➤ More ways to effectively communicate technical concepts to non-technical executives ➤ Real-world examples of successful vendor management and relationship building ➤ Ways to handle stress at the executive level ➤ The importance of knowledge sharing in leadership. What happens when martial arts principles meet IT leadersh...

May 20, 202550 min

357- IT Budget Hell by Cindy Novak - DeLaurell

Cindy Novak – DeLaurell With over 30 years of experience, Cindy Novak – DeLaurell brings a refreshing perspective on transitioning into technology leadership. A licensed pilot who drives Sherman tanks and manages multi-million dollar IT budgets, she demonstrates how diverse experiences shape effective leadership. Cindy she brings a distinctive blend of life sciences expertise and IT leadership to her role as Director of R&D and Technical Operations Business Partner at Avidity Biosciences. Sh...

May 08, 202542 min

356- Bankrupted by ERP with Arick Helmlinger

An ERP business killer’s use-case … fun times not to miss Arick Helmlinger, IT Manager of Business Systems and Data at RIX Industries, shares his path from software developer to IT leadership and managing a challenging ERP implementation during COVID-19. From his early days at Radio Shack to becoming the first in-house developer at RIX Industries, Arick discusses how asking for leadership opportunities and trusting his instincts shaped his career growth. He offers candid insights about the reali...

May 02, 202535 min

355- Mental Bandwidth by Fernando Higuera

Mental Bandwidth Fascinating conversation with Fernando Higuera on his evolution from teenage electronics hacker to tech leader in cloud architecture and AI. Fernando shares his breaking point – sitting frozen on an airplane, unable to move after weeks of 20-hour workdays building a practice from scratch. This pivotal moment transformed his approach to leadership and life. Listen now, discover: How early electronics experimentation shaped his tech career path Creating innovative vehicle-to-vehic...

Apr 24, 20251 hr 10 min

354-  What really kills senior IT careers today? with Chris Meyerpeter

What really kills senior IT careers today? Chris Meyerpeter opens up about his remarkable path from Navy radioman to CIO, sharing his insights about leading IT organizations and creating meaningful business impact through technology. He discusses the critical importance of understanding business operations, the pragmatic implementation of agile methodologies, and how to build high-performing IT teams that drive real business value. Listen now, discover: Security strategy integration with busines...

Apr 17, 202555 min

353- Mastering the art of Flexible IT Leadership with Kevin Eikenberry

Kevin Eikenberry Kevin Eikenberry, seasoned leadership expert and author, shares deep insights on leading with flexibility while maintaining consistency. He explains why traditional leadership approaches fall short in today’s complex IT landscape and offers practical strategies for balancing stability with adaptability Why flexibility and consistency aren’t opposites but complementary qualities Listen now, discover: How to avoid the expertise trap that leads to micromanagement The critical diffe...

Apr 10, 202546 min

352- Governance | Security | Ultimate AI with Scott Geschel

Scott Geschel Scott Geschel, CIO at Premier Outdoor Living, leads IT across multiple units with a business-first mindset shaped by roles at QVC and in semiconductors. A 23-year Air Force and National Guard veteran, he also enjoys farming and woodworking. Governance | Security | Ultimate AI IT’s true impact starts with governance and passionate teams…not just flashy tools. AI is the ultimate goal… What drives real-world results: 3 Non-Negotiables AI Demands Clean Data: Before predicting markets o...

Apr 08, 202538 min

351- How to create raving end users that champion your IT department

Create raving end users that champion your IT department Dennis Zoesch, Director of IT Value Delivery at Wausau Supply Company. IT isn’t just about keeping systems running… It’s about driving measurable business impact. When IT is done right, it becomes the backbone of transformation. Here’s the reality: ✴ Security isn’t just tools… it’s the people. MDR solutions with network + endpoint sensors are key, but you need passionate specialists to interpret the data. ✴ AI’s biggest risk? Believing fak...

Mar 27, 202534 min

349- Beyond traditional perimeter security with Trent Heiser

Trent Heiser, CIO at QC Supply, explains how going beyond traditional perimeter security is the only way forward in today’s dynamic landscape. Zero Trust is no longer an IT initiative. Whether you’re a CIO, CTO, IT manager, or just curious about how top leaders think… this episode will challenge how you view security in the modern enterprise.

Mar 13, 202543 min

348- How To Speak To Your IT Leadership For Big Results with Denise Hatzidakis

Denise Hatzidakis, CIO, CTO, CISO “The business owns the what and the why. IT owns the how. Together, we figure out the when.” Top IT leaders know how to speak the language of business, but rarely do they teach stakeholders how to speak to them. Denise Hatzidakis, is one the strongest forces in IT leadership right now. Whether you are a winning IT leader, CTO, CFO, or user on the network… everyone can walk away from this episode with a profound moment of thought and how round table execs should ...

Mar 06, 202532 min

347- 149+ Hr Ransomware Attack with Lee Lahti

Lee Lahti, Information Technology, Cybersecurity Executive Star Wars OG Lee Lahti has watched A New Hope over 300 times and has even rented entire theater for movie premieres twice. He is also an empathetic, hands-off leader who knows when to be hands-on, effectively handling pressure while keeping the team calm.

Feb 27, 202550 min

346- Hacking corporate ladders with Callan Schoonenberg

Callan Schoonenberg Steering technology strategy at Wausau Supply Company, Callan Schoonenberg brings mechanical engineering, business and extensive manufacturing experience to her CIO role. Her background includes leadership positions at Eaton, complemented by Harvard Business Analytics training and an MBA, creating a unique perspective on technology leadership. Building Modern Manufacturing IT What makes a non-traditional path valuable in IT leadership? Through Callan Schoonenberg’s transition...

Feb 08, 202547 min

345- Framework that enables with Meghan Cook

Meghan E. Cook Leading the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Cyber Incident Response Team, Meghan Cook brings a unique background in facilitation and public administration. Her approach combines relationship building with technical understanding to help local governments and school districts protect their technology infrastructure. Enabling Framework How do you lead effectively across multiple government agencies? Meghan Cook shares her journey from broadcast co...

Jan 30, 202549 min

344- How to Build Trust-Based IT Teams by Ian Johnson

Ian Johnson Leading development at Stealth Startup as Head of Engineering, Full stack, Ian Johnson brings decades of experience from fintech to e-commerce. His approach combines hands-on technical expertise with collaborative leadership, focusing on building high-performing teams through trust and mutual respect. From Early Tech Explorer to Startup Engineering Leader What makes engineering teams truly effective? Ian Johnson shares his evolution from early tech enthusiast to Head of Engineering a...

Jan 23, 202554 min

343- Corporate Espionage: Security Stories from the Trenches by Maximo Bredfeldt

Maximo Bredfeldt Leading technology initiatives at Longship as Chief Information Officer, Maximo Bredfeldt brings 25 years of experience in managed services and security. His approach combines practical problem-solving with deep technical expertise, focusing on understanding business processes to create effective security solutions. The Corporate Espionage What makes an effective cybersecurity strategy? Maximo Bredfeldt shares his journey from taking apart toys to protecting enterprises, highlig...

Jan 16, 202556 min

342- WHAT THE 404 is an AI steering committee!!! And what does it have to do with operation efficiency? by Adam Krob

Adam Krob Leading technology initiatives in the construction industry, Adam Krob brings strategic vision to AI implementation. His approach combines practical technology application with business process improvement, focusing on creating measurable value through innovative solutions while maintaining operational excellence. What the 404 is an AI steering committee? How can IT leaders separate AI hype from real value? Adam Krob shares his experience implementing AI solutions in construction techn...

Jan 09, 202554 min

341- Transforming Soul Crushing IT into Inspiring Leadership by Peter Seliga

Peter Seliga With 25 years of technology experience, Peter Seliga is transforming soul crushing IT into Inspiring Leadership, he brings deep insights from both technical and leadership roles. Currently working at a rocket company, he specializes in building resilient teams through authentic leadership and creating environments where people can be themselves while delivering exceptional results. Transforming Soul Crushing IT into Inspiring Leadership How do you transform soul-crushing IT into an ...

Jan 07, 202547 min

340- From Shadow IT to Innovation: Transforming Business Through Technology by Jeff Cann.

Jeff Cann Leading technology initiatives at Encore Electric, Jeff Cann brings a scientific mindset to IT leadership. His approach combines strategic planning with grassroots innovation, focusing on transforming construction through technology while maintaining strong relationships across all organizational levels. From Shadow IT to Innovation: Transforming Business Through Technology How do you manage IT priorities in a resource-constrained industry? Jeff Cann shares his approach to leading tech...

Dec 26, 20241 hr 1 min

339- What fatal mistake haunts successful tech leaders? by Jeff Schmidt

Jeff Schmidt Starting with a crashed DOS system in 1990, Jeff Schmidt has grown through roles in software development, data warehousing, and infrastructure management. Currently serving as Vice President of Information Technology and Security at a healthcare company, he brings practical experience in balancing innovation with security requirements. Risk Assessment and Business Value: Jeff Schmidt’s IT Leadership Journey What lessons can we learn from a three-decade journey in IT? Jeff Schmidt sh...

Dec 22, 20241 hr 2 min

338. When Security and IT Collide: The startup challenge by Paul Knight

Paul Knight Currently serving as VP of Information Technology and CISO at Turntide Technologies, Paul Knight brings 25 years of experience across various IT disciplines. His unique background includes roles in defense, aerospace, and automotive manufacturing, bringing both operational and security expertise to startup environments. Balancing IT and Security Leadership in Startups How do you effectively manage both IT operations and security oversight in a startup environment? Paul Knight shares ...

Dec 22, 202451 min

337- How your IT strategies are suffocating growth? Sarfraz Shaikh’s Journey to growth

Sarfraz Shaikh Starting in marketing communications, Sarfraz Shaikh has spent 14 years at OneMesa, evolving into the Director of IT role. His unique background combines communications expertise with technology leadership, managing IT operations across four distinct business units in the oil, gas, and drilling industries. Leading IT Through Business Growth and Transformation What does it take to manage IT across four distinct businesses during significant growth? Sarfraz Shaikh shares his 14-year...

Dec 22, 202447 min

336- There is no digital transformation only transformers. Fact or fiction?

Mark Ellestad Mark Ellestad serves as Director of IT and Digital Transformation at Moses Lake Industries, a chemical manufacturing company supporting the semiconductor industry. He is also co-founder of Better Tools LLC, providing consulting and coaching services. With experience as both an educator and technology leader, Mark brings unique perspectives on learning, leadership and digital transformation. From Teaching to Transformation: Mark Ellestad’s Journey in Manufacturing IT How can manufac...

Dec 22, 20241 hr 1 min

335- Gavin Megnauth Reveals the Key Skills You Need to Have to Move Up in IT

Gavin Megnauth With a career spanning from British Airways to his current role as CIO at MedPro Staffing, Gavin Megnauth has honed his skills in navigating complex IT landscapes. His expertise lies in leveraging technology to solve critical business challenges, particularly in healthcare staffing. Gavin’s approach emphasizes the importance of understanding both technical and business perspectives to drive innovation and growth. IT Leaders! Only the C-suite influencers will shape the digital futu...

Dec 22, 202449 min

336- There is no digital transformation only transformers. Fact or fiction?

Mark Ellestad Mark Ellestad serves as Director of IT and Digital Transformation at Moses Lake Industries, a chemical manufacturing company supporting the semiconductor industry. He is also co-founder of Better Tools LLC, providing consulting and coaching services. With experience as both an educator and technology leader, Mark brings unique perspectives on learning, leadership and digital transformation. Learning, Leading and Evolution: Mark Ellestad’s IT Leadership Philosophy How can manufactur...

Dec 21, 20241 hr 1 min

335- Gavin Megnauth Reveals the Key Skills You Need to Have to Move Up in IT

Gavin Megnauth With a career spanning from British Airways to his current role as CIO at MedPro Staffing, Gavin Megnauth has honed his skills in navigating complex IT landscapes. His expertise lies in leveraging technology to solve critical business challenges, particularly in healthcare staffing. Gavin’s approach emphasizes the importance of understanding both technical and business perspectives to drive innovation and growth. Breaking Through IT Barriers: A British Perspective on Leadership Ho...

Dec 21, 202449 min

338- When Security and IT collide: The startup challenge by Paul Knight

Paul Knight Currently serving as VP of Information Technology and CISO at Turntide Technologies, Paul Knight brings 25 years of experience across various IT disciplines. His unique background includes roles in defense, aerospace, and automotive manufacturing, bringing both operational and security expertise to startup environments. From IT Support to Strategic Leadership How do you effectively manage both IT operations and security oversight in a startup environment? Paul Knight shares his exper...

Dec 21, 202451 min

339- What fatal mistake haunts successful tech leaders? Jeff Schmidt's IT Leadership Journey

Jeff Schmidt Starting with a crashed DOS system in 1990, Jeff Schmidt has grown through roles in software development, data warehousing, and infrastructure management. Currently serving as Vice President of Information Technology and Security at a healthcare company, he brings practical experience in balancing innovation with security requirements. Jeff Schmidt: From DOS Commands to Healthcare IT Leadership What lessons can we learn from a three-decade journey in IT? Jeff Schmidt shares his evol...

Dec 20, 20241 hr 2 min
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