Business & Bytes Podcast

"It's like going to the doctor and just closing your eyes and all your form, your intake forms, you're just checking off random boxes."
 
Welcome to another episode of the Business and Bytes Podcast! In this week’s episode, “Regulations or Regrets: The Cybersecurity Wake-Up Call for Small Biz,” hosts Emelio Mejia and John Hansman are joined by cybersecurity expert Ryan Miller to tackle one of the most pressing topics for today’s business owners: the rapidly evolving landscape of cybersecurity regulations.
 
No one really enjoys talking about regulations, but as the guys point out, it’s a conversation that can no longer be ignored—especially with small businesses increasingly in the crosshairs of cybercriminals. From high-profile breaches at industry giants to ransomware attacks that have forced small companies out of business, the ripple effects of poor digital hygiene are real, immediate, and costly. The team breaks down why governments and insurance companies are getting tougher, what’s driving new compliance requirements, and how these changes are impacting everyone—from local realtors and CPAs to multi-state car dealerships.
 
But it’s not all doom and gloom! Emelio, John, and Ryan share real-world stories, practical checklists, and industry insights to help demystify what compliance looks like for small businesses. They talk through the benefits of taking a proactive approach—not just for meeting regulations or securing insurance, but for protecting your company’s reputation, reducing risk, and staying in business.
 
Whether you’re a two-person shop, a family-run business, or a growing company, this episode is packed with actionable advice on how to safeguard your digital assets and avoid those cyber regrets. So pull up a chair, join the conversation, and find out how you can turn the tide on cyber threats—before it’s too late!
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
00:00 Distributor Cyber Incident Affects Purchases
05:26 Understanding Cybersecurity's Business Impact
06:58 Incident Response: Good vs. Bad
12:46 "Regulating Small Businesses' Data Security"
13:27 One-Time Fee Disagreement
19:13 Small Business Regulatory Examples
21:35 Family Business Closure Due to PCI
23:26 "Benefits of Compliance Frameworks"
26:42 Comprehensive Data Breach Recovery Needs
31:16 Customized IT Solutions Explained
34:40 "Assess IT's Cybersecurity Commitment"
37:50 CFO's Cybersecurity Expectations
42:48 Cybersecurity Business Assessment
43:25 Ensure Compliance and Security

"I think the most common thing that I see are payroll or payable scams. That's the most common one I see. Here's an invoice. Click on it and it tries to take you to a fake SharePoint type address where you end up having to put in your Microsoft credentials."
 
Welcome back to the Business and Bytes Podcast! In today’s episode, “Human Firewalls: Why Your Team is the First and Best Cyber Defense,” host John Hansman, co-host and IT specialist Emilio Mejia, and guest Ryan dive deep into the realities of cybersecurity in the workplace. Forget just relying on firewalls and antivirus software—your employees are the frontline heroes (or potentially the weakest link) in defending your business from cyber threats.
 
Through real-world anecdotes and practical insights, the team explores why phishing attacks are still the number one way hackers infiltrate organizations, how stress and multitasking contribute to costly mistakes, and what can happen when a simple email leads to a major breach. You'll hear about the financial and reputational ripple effects of cyber incidents and learn why regular training, simulations, and a culture shift are essential for fostering a security-minded workplace.
 
Whether you’re a business owner, IT pro, or just someone interested in keeping your company safe, tune in for actionable tips, bite-sized brilliance, and a few laughs as the crew shares best practices for turning your team into your strongest defense against cyber attacks.
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
00:00 Importance of Email Security
03:58 Email Security and Training Needs
10:06 Phishing Attempt on Engineering Client
12:49 Reevaluating IT Services Costs
14:25 Monthly Compliance Training Initiative
19:28 Promoting Basic Security Awareness
20:18 In-Person vs Online Training Scenarios
24:23 Cybersecurity Compliance and Responsibility
29:23 Social Engineering Simulations Thriving
30:27 Team Security Quiz & Office Test
34:48 Email Security and Employee Awareness
38:45 "Follow Business and Bytes Everywhere"

"Everyone assumes this is only happening to larger companies. This is happening to the Microsofts and the Targets and the Home Depots and the Best buys of the world when it's really happening to the Truitts and the Sundance Networks and the AM3s and the mom and pop flower shop and you know, the gentleman trying to run his own auto dealer."
 
Welcome to another episode of the Business and Bytes Podcast! In this episode, "Cyber War, Real Risk and Getting It Right – From Global Conflict to Your Front Door," host John Hansman is joined by co-host Emilio Mejia and guest expert Ryan for a timely and thought-provoking conversation on the rising tide of cyber threats amidst escalating global conflicts.
 
As world headlines focus on ongoing wars and ceasefires, the team breaks down what these global tensions mean for businesses here at home, particularly small and medium-sized businesses that often assume they’re safe from international cyber attackers. Drawing on real-time data, Ryan highlights the alarming spike in attempted cyber breaches coming from countries like Iran, China, and Russia—and explains why no industry or company size is immune.
 
Throughout the episode, the conversation extends beyond just technical defenses, delving into practical, actionable advice on how business owners and individuals can protect themselves. From stressing the importance of supply chain awareness and strong password policies to discussing the critical role of cyber insurance (and the pitfalls of neglecting security requirements), John, Emilio, and Ryan cover the full spectrum of cyber defense.
 
Packed with lively stories, a few laughs, and cautionary tales that haunt even seasoned IT professionals, this episode is both an eye-opener and a resource for anyone wanting to strengthen their organization’s cyber posture. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a corporate leader, or just looking to keep your personal data safe, you’ll walk away with practical tips and a renewed urgency to take cybersecurity seriously—because the risks are all too real and closer to home than most realize.
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
00:00 War and Cybersecurity Discussion
06:02 Cyber Incident Paranoia and Recovery
08:30 "Cybersecurity: Predicting Small Business Risks"
11:31 Supply Chain Attacks and Cyber Threats
16:22 Be Mindful of Online Links
19:17 "Security: Beyond a Checklist"
20:05 Home vs. Business Conversation
24:08 Cybersecurity: Training and Consistency Essential
28:48 Two-Factor Authentication Breach Issue
32:44 Reflecting on Business Regrets
36:33 Cybersecurity Collaboration with IT Providers
37:23 IT Choices and Business Risk
40:35 "Enhancing IT with Cybersecurity"
46:42 "CD Drive Misunderstanding Humor"
47:17 CD Insertion Error Resolved
53:38 "Engage with Business and Bites"
54:36 Anticipating Next Week's Return

"So if you're watching this and you think an email is a scam and you want to verify by phone, you don't call the number on the email because they might be anticipating that."
 
Welcome back to the Business and Bytes Podcast! In this episode, host John Hansman is joined by guest expert Ryan Miller and co-host Emilio for a deep dive into today’s ever-evolving digital threats—and the innovative tools businesses are using to fight back.
 
From the start, the team sets the stage with a lively update on their unpredictable weather, quickly transitioning to what’s really making waves: the startling power of AI and how it’s being used by both cyber criminals and IT pros alike. They discuss the rise of highly convincing phishing attacks, the increasing sophistication of email scams, and the unsettling reality that AI is now arming both sides of the battle.
 
Emilio and Ryan share first-hand stories from the trenches, highlighting cases where businesses were nearly brought down by ransomware, and others where quick action and smart technology saved the day. They crack open the world of PCI compliance, why it matters for even the smallest business, and how AI-driven tools are helping to close security gaps before they become costly pitfalls.
 
If you’re a business owner navigating digital security, or just curious about how technology is reshaping both risk and opportunity, this episode is packed with real-life examples, practical advice, and a bit of camaraderie along the way. Tune in as the Business and Bytes crew reveals what it takes to stay ahead, stay compliant, and keep your data—and your business—safe in a world where the only constant is change.Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
00:00 "Considering Google Gemini's Potential"
03:52 Gemini's Hilarious Commercial Creation
07:50 Email Security: Verify Before Clicking
10:17 Phishing Scams Target Big Companies
15:59 AI-Generated CEO Phishing Test
18:42 "Universal PCI Compliance Responsibility"
22:07 "Ensuring PCI Compliance in Cloud"
24:28 "AI Cybersecurity: Innovative Applications"
27:22 Cybersecurity Client's Costly Oversight
32:42 Polite Hackers Negotiate Ransom
33:43 Wire Fraud Accountability in Business
38:28 Radiology Server Compromised
42:02 Email Compromises: Faster Than Ransom
43:13 Rapid Cyber Threat Mitigation
46:35 "June 18th Event Preview"

"Being down is a freaking ton of money. Like it's a, it's a, it's a lot of money they're losing and they still have to pay employees, pay their rent, pay their insurance, pay all those things. So you've got money going out, you've got money lost and you could talk easily 200,000, 500,000, a million dollars in a loss."
Welcome to another episode of the Business and Bytes Podcast! In this episode, host John Hansman is joined by tech and cybersecurity experts Emilio, owner of AM3 Technology Cyber Security in South Florida, and Ryan from Sundance Networks. Together, they take a deep dive into today's most pressing IT topics for businesses: how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming cyber defense, why cyber liability insurance is now a must-have safety net, and the real value of outsourcing your IT needs to a Managed Service Provider (MSP).
 
Get the inside scoop on how AI is already guarding your business from sophisticated threats more efficiently than ever before, what to look for in your current cybersecurity stack, and why relying on old-school antivirus just doesn’t cut it anymore. The group sheds light on the realities behind cyber liability insurance—explaining not just what it covers, but also crucial tips for making sure your policy actually keeps you protected.
 
Then, they break down the benefits MSPs bring to the table, from 24/7 monitoring to leveraging the latest AI tools for both IT security and business efficiency—and how this partnership could ultimately save you both time and money in the long run. Plus, stay tuned for some fun stories about using AI in everyday life, from planning vacations to creating custom bedtime stories!
 
Whether you’re a small business owner or a tech enthusiast, this conversation will leave you with actionable insights to help protect and grow your business in today’s rapidly changing digital landscape.
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
 
00:00 AI, MSPs, and Home Tech
03:38 Sentinel1 AI: Detects Anomalous Activity
07:52 AI Streamlines Lengthy Email Queries
11:38 Cybersecurity: Mitigation Over Guarantees
13:57 Ransomware Impact on Businesses
16:36 Cybersecurity Insurance: Broker Guidance
21:04 Client Call: Detailed Service Review
24:02 "Choosing Cybersecurity Over Basic IT"
26:58 Cybersecurity Breach Consequences Explained
31:10 AI-Powered MSP Solutions Save Money
34:39 AI Enhances Artists' Creations
36:59 AI Aids RV Trip Planning
39:30 Custom Playlists for Lunch and Learns
45:17 "Business Podcast Available Anywhere"
46:24 "Tech Q&A Session"

 
Welcome back to the Business and Bytes Podcast! In this exciting reboot episode, host John Hansman is joined by co-host Emilio, an IT specialist from Florida, and special guest Ryan Miller from Sand Dense Networks. Together, these three tech-savvy MSP owners dive into the intersection of business, technology, and cybersecurity, with a strong focus on how small and medium-sized businesses can leverage AI and stay protected in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.
This episode explores the power—and pitfalls—of AI in business. The team shares real-world stories of AI adoption, highlights the importance of keeping your brand’s authentic voice with AI-generated content, and offers practical advice for protecting your business from sophisticated cyber threats, like the infamous "$8 million cyber mistake." You’ll also hear actionable tips on crafting effective security policies, the growing need for AI education in schools, and even some creative life hacks for using AI at home.
Whether you’re a business owner wanting to get ahead with AI, or just love geeking out on the latest tech and cybersecurity trends, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and real talk from the front lines of IT. Grab your coffee, settle in, and get ready to take your business—and your tech know-how—to the next level!
00:00 "Advancing AI Voice and Security"
06:06 Unique AI Voice Customization
08:18 Preventing CEO Impersonation Scams
10:20 AI Phone Scam Concerns
14:42 Collaborative Policy Scenario Review
19:16 AI Dominates Tech Show Focus
22:50 "Cloud Risks: Business Email Theft"
24:17 AI and Defense in Cybersecurity
29:57 Rapid Response Saves Business Reputation
32:10 Firewall Compromise Due to Neglect
34:56 Tailored Retail POS Solutions Needed
40:13 AI's Surprising Travel Assistance
41:54 Predictable Hand, Foot, Mouth Symptoms
44:38 Upcoming AI and Cybersecurity Topics

John Hansman, an astute business leader and podcast host, is well-versed in the intricacies of cybersecurity challenges faced by small businesses. As the host of the popular "Business Invites" podcast, John provides valuable insights and discussions on prevalent issues such as business email compromises and invoicing scams. With a keen eye on current events, John frequently references real-world cases to highlight the importance of cybersecurity, drawing from notable incidents such as the substantial financial loss faced by "Shark Tank" star Barbara Cochran, who fell victim to a $388,000 invoicing scam. Through his work, John plays a crucial role in educating entrepreneurs on safeguarding their businesses from cyber threats.
Welcome to Episode 21 of the Business and Bytes Podcast! Today's episode kicks off with an essential discussion led by our host, John Hansman, about a prevalent threat to businesses—business email compromises, especially invoicing scams. In the context of a recent incident involving "Shark Tank" star Barbara Cochran, who fell victim to such a scam, John delves into the mechanics of how these deceptions occur and shares crucial tips on what businesses can do to protect themselves from similar pitfalls.
Following this impactful segment, we transition into an inspiring interview with our guest, Dominique Getchman, the Development and Communications Manager at Together, a non-profit in Olympia. Dominique shares her remarkable journey from a teenage mom to a boxing manager and then to a model, underscoring the lessons she's learned in business and life. She offers insights into overcoming obstacles, seizing opportunities, and how all of these experiences have equipped her to make a difference in her current role.
Whether you're looking to safeguard your business or seeking inspiration from real stories of triumph and resilience, this episode promises to deliver valuable insights and motivation. Let's dive in!
 
00:00 Email Scam: Invoice Fraud Exploit
03:27 Email Security and Red Flags
07:36 Together We Advance Student Wellbeing
11:44 Networking Journey: Lessons and Insights
14:45 Hawaiian Fighter's ESPN Opportunity
18:59 Lessons in Resilience and Belief
21:25 Pursuing a Modeling Career
23:09 Modeling Industry Challenges and Success
26:28 Modeling Industry Challenges
30:14 Balancing Relationships and Self-Interest
34:06 Bridging Gaps in Education System
36:22 Building a Foundation for Success
39:38 "Advice for Aspiring Models"
43:51 Managing Business Stress
45:59 "Supporting Thurston Students Together"

Welcome to the latest episode of the Business and Bytes Podcast. Today, we delve into a critical and timely topic: the recent wave of cyberattacks on telecom companies, reportedly orchestrated by Chinese hackers, and what it means for businesses and individuals alike. I'm your host, John Hansman, joined by my co-host, Emelio Mejia, CEO of AM3 Tech and Cybersecurity, and cybersecurity expert Todd Thorson from Tang Cyber Security.
In this episode, we'll explore how these breaches impact the security of your personal and business communications, the vulnerabilities in our digital infrastructure, and the escalating measures needed to protect sensitive data. We'll hear insights on the importance of security and awareness training for employees, the effectiveness of multiple security layers, and why relying on professional technology consultants is crucial for robust cybersecurity.
Our discussion will touch on the rise of phishing attacks, the economic toll of cyber scams, and the subtleties of messaging security—with recommendations for safer communication practices. Join us as we unpack these issues, bringing you up to date on how to fortify your defenses in an increasingly perilous digital landscape.
 
Security and awareness training, cybersecurity risks, data transmission security, security layers, professional consultation, telecom breaches, Chinese hackers, Emilio Mejia, Todd Thorson, Tang Cyber Security, AM3 Tech and Cybersecurity, AT&T, Verizon, SMS text vulnerability, RCS messaging, encrypted messaging, WhatsApp security, outdated devices, government espionage, IT support, comprehensive security services, proactive cybersecurity, phishing attacks, cyber-attacks, data breaches, responsibility for cybersecurity, small business cybersecurity, phishing attack volume, economic impact of cyber scams, government-sponsored hacking, social engineering risks.
 
00:00 Business podcast hosts discuss telecom breaches.
03:47 Hackers spying on conversations; SMS insecurity acknowledged.
09:10 Chinese-sponsored hackers pose threat using information.
11:31 Avoid sending sensitive information via text/SMS.
16:36 Espionage reveals telecom vulnerabilities; protection needed.
17:40 Even huge companies struggle with cybersecurity protection.
22:04 Frequent security attacks blocked successfully. Client surprised.
25:32 Focus on security and awareness training education.
29:55 Ensure data transmission security and encryption tools.
32:50 Prioritize security; diversify and plan wisely.
34:16 Prioritize cybersecurity in IT support services.