Feds At The Edge by FedInsider
Want to know what the most brilliant minds in government and the technology industry are working on behind the scenes? The federal government is pouring thousands of man-hours and billions of dollars into cutting edge projects for the military, civilian agencies and the intelligence community. Get a front row seat to all of that innovation and more with our Feds at the Edge (FATE) podcast. Each episode of FATE features public and private officials who are changing the world with cutting edge technology. No topic is off limits or too technical for our guests to handle. Learn the inner workings of federal projects involving intelligence gathering, emergency management, modernization, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, communications, encryption, cloud computing, robotics and much more. Don’t let FATE pass you by. Discover this exciting new podcast today!
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Ep. 253 Meeting the AI Implementation Challenge – Securely
06/17/2026
Ep. 253 Meeting the AI Implementation Challenge – Securely
Kyle Swanson, Lqid Today’s AI is changing so quickly that future implementation is difficult to plan for. The discussion also highlighted the importance of flexible infrastructure to adapt to evolving AI models, as well as realistic budgeting and planning. Sumit Puri of Lqid states that 86% of data resides on-premises. If AI requires access to information from other repositories, a leader must know where that data is managed once it is disseminated. We have all kinds of concerns: security, privacy, compliance, performance, vendor lock-in, and even data migration. Once a good understanding of data management is achieved, tools can be used to assess potential future requirements. From there, Ariana Tiftt suggests that when a systems manager understands how much CPU, GPU, and storage are needed, real-time planning to improve workload efficiency becomes possible. Following that approach, Lqid’s Kyle Swanson recommends looking at where the data exists today and matching the existing hardware to the job. This view results in minimal data movement and maximum use of paid-for equipment.
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Ep. 252 Addressing Security Holes in Air Gapped Environments.
06/10/2026
Ep. 252 Addressing Security Holes in Air Gapped Environments.
When it comes to air-gapped networks, there is an assumption that this is the ultimate protection for Federal networks. This week on Feds At the Edge, we speak with three federal experts who share their observations that challenge these assumptions and bring potential cracks in this seemingly impenetrable security measure to light. We’ll explore how air-gapped systems can still be exposed through compromised supply chains, why patching and upgrades become more difficult without internet connectivity, and how manual data transfers using USB drives and external media can introduce new vulnerabilities. The conversation also examines critical questions around Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), software allowlisting, and strategies for blocking unauthorized executables. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to learn why an air gap alone is not enough, and what agencies must do to protect their most sensitive systems.
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Ep. 251 How to Translate AI into Stronger Cybersecurity
06/01/2026
Ep. 251 How to Translate AI into Stronger Cybersecurity
Innovation often follows a familiar cycle: rapid expansion, followed by consolidation. Federal agencies are experiencing this firsthand as AI tools and models proliferate across their environments. This week on Feds At the Edge, technology leaders explore the challenge of rapid innovation and how agencies can regain control before the chaos of disorganized, duplicate data and tool sprawl compromises their missions. Jim Smid, Federal Solutions Architect, Palo Alto Networks, explains how observability now extends beyond servers and IoT devices to include AI models, tools, and their interactions with agency data. Jessica Souder, AIRS Specialist / Director, Public Sector, Palo Alto Networks, emphasizes that agencies should carefully evaluate new AI tools, validating them in controlled environments, and establishing governance before deployment. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to hear why our panel of experts agree that any AI deployment should focus on the agency mission, valid data, and that all projects should commence with visibility.
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Ep. 250 Defending the Digital State: Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Citizen Services from Ransomware Threats
05/27/2026
Ep. 250 Defending the Digital State: Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Citizen Services from Ransomware Threats
AI is putting ransomware on steroids, and on this week’s episode of Feds At the Edge we examine several approaches to reducing the impact of malicious actors through advanced protection strategies and smarter cybersecurity budgeting. Michael Dent, Retired CISO with Fairfax County, shares how he takes cybersecurity training to the next level with what he calls “Challenge Point,” rewarding employees for identifying signs of potential attacks. Glendon Schmitz, Virginia State Corporation Commission, discusses the importance of showing leadership the direct financial impact of an attack when seeking successful budget approval. Akamai Technologies’ Douglas Holland explores the emotional tactics malicious actors use to pressure unsuspecting users into complying with urgent requests. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform for more on this and ransomware-as-a-service, the long-term effects on public trust, leadership accountability, and the growing need for initiative-taking governance and budgeting.
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Ep. 249 Smarter Security for Leaner Budgets and Teams: The Tech Transforming U.S. Government Operations
05/21/2026
Ep. 249 Smarter Security for Leaner Budgets and Teams: The Tech Transforming U.S. Government Operations
In a recent Forrester report on federal technology, more than half of the respondents revealed they face significant negative impact from budget constraints, while a whopping 86% expect a breach. This week on Feds At the Edge we sit down with experts from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, and Carahsoft to discuss practical strategies for securing mission-critical systems, maximizing existing technology investments, and prioritizing the areas of greatest risk. We also bring in a special guest from Forrester who shares how agencies can maximize limited resources by using shared enterprise services, streamlining overlapping AI security tools, and prioritizing critical areas such as network security, data protection, and incident response.
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Ep. 248 Unifying Data for Public Safety and National Security
05/13/2026
Ep. 248 Unifying Data for Public Safety and National Security
One common theme among technology leaders discussing AI deployment is the need for a “definitive source.” Without trusted data, none of AI’s conclusions are truly actionable. This week on Feds At the Edge, two technology leaders share practical strategies for building trustworthy AI environments while strengthening security and compliance. Jared Pane from Elastic discusses why organizations can’t blindly trust AI outputs, highlighting both familiar data quality issues and emerging threats like hidden “white-space text” embedded in datasets that can carry malicious code into AI repositories. Meanwhile, Chris Bunton from Texas Dept of Agriculture, explains how automation can simplify security and compliance, including the implementation of a policy bot that provides employees with 24/7 guidance on compliance best practices. Tune in on your favorite podcasting platform for practical advice for agencies beginning their AI journey: start small, solve clear problems, and build a collaborative culture that supports long-term success.
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Ep. 247 The Role of AI In Government
05/06/2026
Ep. 247 The Role of AI In Government
Preparation is everything when it comes to AI in government. This week on Feds At the Edge, experts from the Library of Congress, Fortinet Federal, Pryon, Dell Technologies and Data Evolution share practical insights on moving beyond “lift and shift” approaches, selecting the right tools, and ensuring data is truly AI-ready. From treating AI tools as “perishable as tomatoes” to rethinking legacy data and modern migration strategies, the conversation highlights the importance of strong data foundations, thoughtful implementation, and continuous learning. Tune in on your favorite podcasting platform for insights on how successful AI adoption depends less on the tools themselves and more on preparation, collaboration, and informed decision-making.
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Ep. 246 Building Trusted Data for AI
04/29/2026
Ep. 246 Building Trusted Data for AI
Data is the lifeblood of AI, and when it’s incomplete, biased, or inaccurate, your results will be abysmal. This week on Feds At the Edge, we sit down with Geoff Schaefer of Leidos and Susan Laine from Quest to discuss how to overcome the common pitfalls and data challenges of federal AI adoption. Our guests explore the shift toward data platforms that include curated, reusable data products that improve visibility, assign trust scores, and clarify data sources and permissions. Tune in on your favorite podcasting platform for insights on governance, interoperability, and ethical use, as this conversation highlights how strong data foundations are essential to making AI reliable, scalable, and mission-ready.
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Ep. 245 Strengthening Zero Trust Under Pressure
04/23/2026
Ep. 245 Strengthening Zero Trust Under Pressure
Professional sports reward those who perform under pressure. In federal technology, the stakes are even higher. This week on Feds At the Edge, we sit down with experts navigating the realities of securing federal systems in an environment where threats are constant and decisions carry real consequences. Gary Barlet, Public Sector CTO for Illumio, poses a critical question: “Do you have a plan for what happens when a malicious actor breaches your system?” He explains how segmentation can stop attackers from being able to “land and expand,” and why “real-time” observability is essential to understanding actual network dependencies. Mark Mitchell, Federal Security Architect at Netskope, highlights a familiar challenge: “If this alert is valid, what is my next step?” He introduces “Active User Coaching,” which helps guide users with warnings and safer alternatives when risky actions occur. Together, the conversation also explores aligning zero trust strategies with federal guidance and the importance of assuming breaches from the start. Tune in on your favorite podcasting platform to hear how effective federal cybersecurity requires planning, real visibility, and clear action in the moments that matter most.
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Ep. 244 The State of AI in the Federal Space
04/16/2026
Ep. 244 The State of AI in the Federal Space
In order to determine its value, Federal Technology leaders know it’s all about the workflow when it comes to the possibility of incorporating AI. Once they do, having a deeper understanding of the distinction between traditional and generative AI, as well as the importance of data cleanliness and security will be key for an effective adoption. This week at Feds At the Edge, we outline the steps agencies should know and take to take as they prepare to expand into the newest digital landscape. From defining terms, to ensuring clean and secure data, to identifying and removing potential bias, we’ll explore what the new lifecycle of information should look like. Tune in on your favorite podcasting platform to hear how streamlining the data process can help optimize the value that AI can bring to the table.
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Ep. 243 Operationalizing Private AI for Federal Missions
04/08/2026
Ep. 243 Operationalizing Private AI for Federal Missions
We have all seen the power of AI; the question is, can it be implemented in a secure federal environment? This week on Feds At the Edge, we sit down with three experts who are proving that powerful AI can be deployed securely in federal environments, without compromising compliance or mission outcomes. Leaders from the Library of Congress, Idaho National Lab, and Keysight share how responsible implementation, curated data, and private AI models are unlocking transformative results. You’ll hear how agencies are navigating sensitive data repositories, building secure AI ecosystems, and fostering collaboration to accelerate innovation, while keeping privacy and security front and center. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform for a practical look at how federal leaders are securely scaling AI from experimentation to real-world impact.
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Ep. 242 Trends in Digital Modernization
04/01/2026
Ep. 242 Trends in Digital Modernization
What if better visibility into your IT assets could unlock cost savings, strengthen security, and free teams to focus on the mission? This week on Feds At the Edge, we explore how federal agencies are turning digital modernization into a strategic advantage by strengthening software and asset visibility. With a clearer understanding of existing licenses, agencies can eliminate duplication, retire unused tools, and collaborate across organizations to secure better pricing and maximize value. The conversation also highlights how AI is elevating asset management, moving beyond static reporting to real-time insights, forecasting future needs, and uncovering hidden risks like shadow IT. At the same time, aligning asset and procedure management is enabling more proactive operations, where adaptive licensing and better data help teams shift from compliance-heavy tasks to mission-focused work. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to learn how a more connected, forward-looking approach is helping agencies cut costs, reduce risk, and operate smarter for the future.
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Ep. 241 Embedding Trust into AI for the Public Sector
03/25/2026
Ep. 241 Embedding Trust into AI for the Public Sector
Trust is difficult enough in an environment with strict controls and security; AI adds dimensions that make establishing trust even more challenging in the public sector. Over the last decade, if we have learned anything, it’s that check box solutions never work. This week on Feds At the Edge, we break down what it takes to build trustworthy AI in high-stakes government environments. From model transparency and “model cards” to the risks hidden in data and the importance of context, they explore how leaders can evaluate trust across the model, the data, and the monitoring processes. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to learn why continuous monitoring, strong governance, and thoughtful implementation are essential, and how agencies can move beyond checkbox compliance to deploy AI with confidence.
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Ep. 240 Navy Transformation: Modernization is About the Mission
03/18/2026
Ep. 240 Navy Transformation: Modernization is About the Mission
How do you upgrade a global fleet when failure isn't an option? This week on Feds At the Edge, we dive into the Navy's "Operation Cattle Drive," an ambitious initiative to modernize technology across hundreds of ships in the world’s most challenging environments. We sit down with experts from the U.S. Navy and Red Hat to break down the three pillars of high-stakes digital transformation: Development: Using digital twins to test systems in advance—eliminating risk where failure isn’t an option. Scaling: Building infrastructure that can support growing AI demands across a distributed fleet. Automation: Applying thoughtful automation can support patching, compliance, and faster updates. Moving toward a world where complex military networks are as seamless to update as a commercial smartphone. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform as our experts highlight why strategy, enterprise platforms, and a culture of change are essential for mission success.
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Ep. 239 Facing the Two-Edged Sword of AI: Securing Government Infrastructure in the Face of AI Automation
03/11/2026
Ep. 239 Facing the Two-Edged Sword of AI: Securing Government Infrastructure in the Face of AI Automation
AI presents such a dazzling set of opportunities that federal leaders can be tempted to dive in without careful planning. This week on Feds At the Edge, we move past the hype to explore the tactical realities of deploying AI within the unique constraints of the federal environment. Ashley Billman, Cybersecurity Analyst, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, explains why agencies must align AI architecture with mission and security needs, whether on-prem, hybrid, or cloud environments, and highlights a critical question: what’s actually in the training data, and what might be missing? The discussion also explores emerging risks. Experts Gary Bartlett from Illumio and Mark Mitchell from Netskope join the conversation to warn against the "agent" trend, sharing cautionary tales of AI inadvertently accessing sensitive information and explaining why robust governance is the only way to ensure your AI’s conclusions are actually valid. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to learn why AI literacy is no longer an optional skill, but a strategic necessity for the future of federal cybersecurity. Stop chasing the headlines and start building a framework that turns AI from a risk into a mission-critical asset
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Ep. 238 State and Local Government: Streamlining Operations to Improve Efficiency, Cost Effectiveness
03/04/2026
Ep. 238 State and Local Government: Streamlining Operations to Improve Efficiency, Cost Effectiveness
AI has the power to transform government operations, but only if it’s used wisely. This week on Feds At the Edge, we dive into the high-stakes world of applied AI within public agencies, where the potential for massive efficiency gains sits right next to the risk of moving too fast without a map. From Todd Sharkey of Lorain County, OH’s look at the document "drowning" in many government organizations to Brandon Ragle at Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology’s vital warnings on data privacy and strict procedural safeguards, we explore the thin line between innovation and liability. Brad Porter of Knowledge Lake joins us to bridge that gap, demonstrating how AI can classify and secure sensitive data at speeds once thought impossible. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform for our experts' takeaways: start small, pilot carefully, and measure the impact. When implemented thoughtfully, AI can turn overwhelming archives into actionable insights.
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Ep. 237 Human + AI Prioritizing Higher Value Work
02/25/2026
Ep. 237 Human + AI Prioritizing Higher Value Work
I isn’t here to replace government professionals, it’s here to elevate them. Artificial intelligence is still new territory for many public sector leaders, but understanding how to apply it effectively can unlock major gains in productivity and insight. This week on Feds At the Edge, we dive into the essential transition for government professionals: offloading routine tasks to AI so humans can reclaim high-level analytical work. Dr. Nancy Washton breaks down the critical distinction between "deterministic" traditional computing and today’s "non-deterministic" AI, explaining why the same prompt can yield different results and how to vet those outputs by asking the system to document its own logic. Alongside Alyssa Ashworth’s insights on data security, human oversight, and productivity metrics, this discussion provides a roadmap for moving from simple applications to complex, scaled solutions. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform as this discussion explores how to build professional confidence by starting small and scaling smart in the new age of intelligence.
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Ep. 236 Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges: How Technology is Transforming Transportation.
02/18/2026
Ep. 236 Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges: How Technology is Transforming Transportation.
What if the solution to our most daunting infrastructure challenges isn't just more concrete, but more clarity? This week on Feds At the Edge, we explore how cutting-edge technology is turning budget constraints into opportunities for smarter, more sustainable growth. Experts from VHB, Portland Bureau of Transportation, Georgia Department of Transportation, Bentley Systems, Inc, and Reynolds, Smith & Hills, discuss how leveraging digital twins - dynamic software-based replicas of physical projects - states can revolutionize the way they plan and build (avoid planning mistakes, enabling iteration cycles) allowing for precision-engineered spending and seamless workflows. We will break down why Model-Based Design is more than just a fancy tool; it is a fundamental mindset shift to a single-source model that helps agencies navigate rapid technological change and severe resource shortages. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform as this discussion reveals how moving to a single-source digital model can optimize every dollar spent, ensuring our communities get the modern, reliable infrastructure they deserve.
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Ep. 235 Identity Gaps are the New Insider Threat
02/12/2026
Ep. 235 Identity Gaps are the New Insider Threat
Citizens expect government services to work seamlessly on their phones, and agencies are moving quickly to adapt. But simply extending legacy systems to mobile can leave critical security and usability gaps. This week on Feds At the Edge, experts from California DMV and SailPoint break down three key lessons for building trusted, modern access. First, MFA alone is no longer enough. As attackers find ways around one-time codes, organizations are shifting from basic identity checks to stronger, continuous authentication approaches. Second, “fire-and-forget” permissions create risk. Access must be monitored and adjusted over time as roles and responsibilities change. Third, what good is a better mousetrap if nobody uses it? Even the best technology fails without adoption. Agencies must engage users, demonstrate value, and make secure tools easy to use. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform because now is the time to act: evaluate your current systems and identify your gaps, strengthen access, and build the trust needed for successful digital transformation.
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Ep. 234 The States of the States
02/04/2026
Ep. 234 The States of the States
What does a massive county-based state like North Dakota have in common with a compact, town-centered state like Vermont? More than you’d think, and the stakes for their data have never been higher. This week on Feds At the Edge, experts from North Dakota Information Technology, State of Vermont Agency Digital Services, and Palo Alto explore how states bridge geographical and administrative divides to secure their digital future. Despite stark differences in scale and structure, both faces universal challenges: managing massive data volumes and modernizing legacy systems. We discuss three approaches that can improve services while reducing costs: Scalable Operations: The benefits of a Joint Security Operations Center (JSOC) for multi-agency coordination. Surface Management: Utilizing external perspectives to identify entry points and address vulnerabilities. Incident Response: Moving past a "head-in-the-sand" mentality to develop actionable plans for when a state gets hit. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to learn how effective, team-based operations are helping leaders rise to the occasion and achieve the goal of doing more with less.
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Ep. 233 Cybersecurity: Building Resiliency, Reducing Redundancy
01/27/2026
Ep. 233 Cybersecurity: Building Resiliency, Reducing Redundancy
Most practitioners building cybersecure environments know the basics: simplify system procedures, invest in continuous education, and elevate visibility across the network. But what happens when new mandates are applied to legacy systems? The “bolt-on” approach is often expensive, frustrating, and ineffective. This week on Feds At the Edge, experts from NETCOM, DARPA, and Axonius discuss how automation, AI, and continuous learning are reshaping cyber defense, and what agencies must do to build security that works. We examine patching challenges, attack surface reduction, and how AI can help ease “task saturation,” along with why visibility and education remain essential. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to hear whether modern technology is enough to meet today’s security demands.
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Ep. 232 Harnessing AI and ML for Smarter Cybersecurity
01/22/2026
Ep. 232 Harnessing AI and ML for Smarter Cybersecurity
Today, we hear how to leverage the much-vaunted AI and ML technologies to make practical cybersecurity improvements for the federal government. The analysis includes comments about setting a base line, prioritizing alerts and a quick dive into the characteristics of Operational Technology (OT). BASELINE: Signature-based risk analysis has proven to be easy to deceive. Alex Maier from August Schell suggests that the solution is a move to a “behavior” based tool. In other words, see where a user's behavior varies from the norm. If that is the case, then you must know what “typical” is all about and begin by observing typical patterns to discern noticeable differences. AERTS: Some estimates suggest that a Security Operations Center (SOC) can receive 10,000 alerts a day. It is no wonder operators suffer from “alert fatigue” and miss problems. Rubrik has technology that can establish a risk-based alerting system to filter out low-level concerns. ELEMENTS OF OT: Mark Hadley of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory describes OT as deterministic. That is to say, given a signal, always produce the same output with a fixed set of rules. Given that understanding, a heighted importance must be given to the value of the specific commands given to OT devices. The discussion also covered the need for transparency and accountability, as well as the potential risks of AI-based attacks.
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Ep. 231 OT is Not IT
01/14/2026
Ep. 231 OT is Not IT
One sensor can generate 1.3 million data points per minute. Now imagine hundreds of them on a single military aircraft. OT powers everything from sensors in Air Force fighter jets to floating ocean buoys, yet applying traditional data management strategies to these systems is anything but simple. While many understand that OT controls physical devices, far fewer grasp the scale, velocity, and complexity of the data these systems generate. This week on Feds At the Edge, experts from US Coast Guard, US Strategic Command, Army Test and Evaluation Command, and BMC explore practical ways to bring Operational Technology (OT) into modern federal IT architectures, from using analytics tools to extract actionable insights, to adopting platforms that unify data across systems, and training people to use technology effectively. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to learn how federal agencies can turn overwhelming OT data into clarity, confidence, and smarter operational decisions.
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Ep. 230 The Role of Technology in Improving Healthcare Systems
01/06/2026
Ep. 230 The Role of Technology in Improving Healthcare Systems
As agencies look to modernize healthcare systems, technology leaders face a unique challenge: driving innovation while safeguarding sensitive personal data and meeting strict regulatory requirements. This week on Feds At the Edge, we hear from two unique perspectives on how to modernize healthcare safely, strategically, and effectively. Suresh Soundararajan, CIO for the Virginia Department of Health, explains why technology initiatives fail when they aren’t aligned with organizational strategy, and why success should be measured through meaningful outcomes like patient satisfaction and reduced processing times, not change for change’s sake. Nasheb Ismaily, Principal Solutions Engineer, Public Sector at Cloudera Government Solutions, introduces the concept of “precision health,” showing how predictive analytics can help identify risks earlier, shift care away from costly emergency interventions, and improve long-term outcomes. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform for this conversation that underscores the importance of shared vision, cultural change, and a deliberate, strategic approach to technology adoption in healthcare.
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Ep. 229 Cost-Efficient IT Modernization for State and Local Agencies
12/17/2025
Ep. 229 Cost-Efficient IT Modernization for State and Local Agencies
All government agencies face the challenge of achieving ambitious IT modernization goals while juggling limited resources and seemingly endless needs. This week on Feds At the Edge, experts explore practical strategies to make modernization both achievable and cost-effective. Christine Maii Sakuda, State Chief Information Officer (CIO) and administrator of the Office of Enterprise Technology Services for Hawaii, shares how a dedicated change management advocate and early practitioner engagement can transform digital initiatives, emphasizing that investing in people upfront leads to smoother, more efficient transitions. And Abe Rosloff, Senior Sales Engineer at Datadog, adds that not every system needs to be included in a transition. Understanding priorities, cataloging applications, and involving the team early are key steps to achieving cost-effective modernization. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to hear actionable insights that can help your agency modernize IT without breaking the budget.
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Ep. 228 Building a Compliance Framework for Providers and Agencies
12/10/2025
Ep. 228 Building a Compliance Framework for Providers and Agencies
Cloud adoption is accelerating, data is exploding, and agencies are under pressure to understand where cloud provider responsibility end, and where theirs begins. This week on Feds At the Edge, experts from the State of Kansas, GovRAMP, and Palo Alto Networks share practical guidance for navigating today’s cloud landscape. Jeff Maxon, CITO for the State of Kansas, shares how to differentiate between infrastructure and applications and why responsibility shifts to the customer once you move into the application layer. Michael Gregg, Field CIO at Palo Alto Networks, highlights why configuration isn’t the same as security, the importance of continuous compliance testing, and why every organization needs a solid recovery plan. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform and learn how collaboration, clarity, and continuous improvement drive stronger cloud security.
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Ep. 227 Ensuring Data Security and Compliance
12/03/2025
Ep. 227 Ensuring Data Security and Compliance
What if decades of security headaches could be solved with one framework? In 2011, FedRAMP was created to end the repetitive, time-consuming security audits across federal agencies, standardizing security to cut costs and accelerate cloud adoption. Fast forward ten years, and state governments faced the same challenges. Enter GovRAMP: a standardized, transparent framework based on NIST 800-53 rev5, designed to bring states together around shared security practices. This week on Feds At the Edge, data security experts break down the practical steps of implementing compliance, the importance of continuous monitoring, the role of cloud service providers, and why allocating the right resources is critical to protecting sensitive data. Tony O'Neill, CISO & Chief Risk Officer from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, noted that a consistent baseline doesn’t just save money, it frees leaders to invest in people. Tune in on your favorite podcast today and discover how GovRAMP is making state-level cybersecurity simpler, smarter, and more resilient.
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Ep. 226 Finding Your Best Strategy for a Multi-Cloud Environment
11/20/2025
Ep. 226 Finding Your Best Strategy for a Multi-Cloud Environment
Making the transition from on-prem to the multi-cloud can be tough, and the real challenges often emerge long after the migration plan is written. This week on Feds At the Edge, three experts in the multi-cloud world break down the assumptions, surprises, and security realities organizations face along the way. Jessica Van Eerde, Chief of Operations for GovRAMP, offers three essential, practical suggestions for anyone considering a move: assessing security compliance, validating support and training needs, and using the "Customer Responsibility Matrix" to ensure your expected cost savings are real. Dan Wilkins, CISO at the Arizona Dept of Economic Security, builds on this advice by recommending organizations define their minimum cloud requirements upfront and run a true gap analysis to compare vendors on more than just marketing claims. And Nick Peters, Information Security Program Manager, Rubrik, highlights the hidden costs that can surprise even experienced teams. Tune in on your favorite podcast today, whether you’re planning your first cloud migration or refining a multi-cloud strategy, as this episode offers a grounded look at what it really takes to make the transition successfully.
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Ep. 225 Bring the Power of AI to Cybersecurity
11/13/2025
Ep. 225 Bring the Power of AI to Cybersecurity
As technology evolves, so does our understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. This week on Feds At the Edge, we break down how artificial intelligence is transforming cybersecurity, where it can meaningfully improve defense, and what agencies should consider before deploying it. LCDR Ian Roessle, Deputy Director, Center for High Assurance Computer Systems at the Naval Research Laboratory, explains why vulnerabilities don’t always translate to real risk and emphasizes knowing your systems inside and out. He also notes that AI can introduce new exposures. Martin Stanley, AI & Cybersecurity Researcher at NIST, outlines the Assessing Risks and Impacts of AI program, which is designed to help leaders validate and secure AI-enabled systems. Jarrod Vawdrey, Field Chief Data Scientist at Domino Data Lab, discusses how agencies can move toward AI-driven cyber defense by assessing data readiness, isolating high-value targets, and shifting away from static, rules-based tools. Tune in on your favorite podcast today as we explore practical guidance for deploying AI in cybersecurity while managing the risks it introduces.
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Ep. 224 Strengthen and Automate Your Cyber Risk Management
11/06/2025
Ep. 224 Strengthen and Automate Your Cyber Risk Management
Today, we take a nuanced look at automating cyber risk management. Let’s start with ingress of data. Kemp Jennings-Roach from the DoD understands the concept of having a complete inventory of an agency’s data. Still, his experience shows that data coming in from multiple missions, potentially with various classifications, can be challenging. Combine that with varying kinds of reporting requirements, and you get a process that can overwhelm even the most experienced individuals. His recommendation is to consider a platform approach that can help normalize data, allowing it to be used in a meaningful way. Matt Goodrich from Diligent expands on some of the benefits of automation. For example, you may have a shortage of talent that can be compensated for with an automated platform. Automation reduces human error and can speed up the time to report. Goodrich makes a great point about summarizing information. The goal of reviewing logs for anomalies is not to create a report, but to increase speed to action. Rather than arbitrarily selecting an automated system, Goodrich suggests looking for tools that can integrate with existing systems and align with compliance frameworks, such as FedRAMP and NIST CSF.
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