The CDW OCTOpod

The Human Firewall: Human Risk Management with Masha Sedova

In this episode of The Octopod Podcast, we dive deep into the evolving world of human risk management with Masha Sedova, VP of Human Risk Strategy at Mimecast. As cyber threats increasingly target people, not just technology, traditional security awareness training is no longer enough.

Masha shares insights from her years as a practitioner, founder, and strategist, exploring how businesses can take a data-driven approach to mitigating human risk. We discuss:

🔹 Why awareness training alone isn't working
🔹 The 8% of employees who drive 80% of security incidents
🔹 How to use risk-based interventions to protect your workforce
🔹 The role of AI, automation, and behavioral analytics in security
🔹 Why human risk management is a proactive game-changer

If you're a CISO, security leader, or IT professional, this conversation will challenge the way you think about securing the human element in your cybersecurity strategy.

Listen now to learn how to turn your people from the 'weakest link' into your strongest defence!

Smart Solutions for Retail Security - Part 3

In this three-part series, we are exploring loss prevention and shrinkage and how we can deliver technology solutions to help tackle this rising challenge and unlock insights for better decision-making across the retail sector. We will also explore how we can leverage this technology to unlock the power of data and provide insights for multiple departments in retail organisations. Finally, we explore how we can build the business case for investment to help unlock the value.

CDW are hosting a webinar to dive into this in more detail. Find information on this here

Speakers:

Rob Sims. Chief Technologist, CDW
Paige Dougherty, Enterprise Account Executive, Verkada

Smart Solutions for Retail Security - Part 2

In this three-part series, we are exploring loss prevention and shrinkage and how we can deliver technology solutions to help tackle this rising challenge and unlock insights for better decision-making across the retail sector. We will also explore how we can leverage this technology to unlock the power of data and provide insights for multiple departments in retail organisations. Finally, we explore how we can build the business case for investment to help unlock the value.

CDW are hosting a webinar to dive into this in more detail. Find information on this here

Speakers:

Rob Sims. Chief Technologist, CDW
Paige Dougherty, Enterprise Account Executive, Verkada

Smart Solutions for Retail Security - Part 1

In this three-part series, we are exploring loss prevention and shrinkage and how we can deliver technology solutions to help tackle this rising challenge and unlock insights for better decision-making across the retail sector. We will also explore how we can leverage this technology to unlock the power of data and provide insights for multiple departments in retail organisations. Finally, we explore how we can build the business case for investment to help unlock the value.

CDW are hosting a webinar to dive into this in more detail. Find information on this here

Speakers:

Rob Sims. Chief Technologist, CDW
Paige Dougherty, Enterprise Account Executive, Verkada

2024EP4 - Unlocking the Enterprise Digital Experience

In this episode, Kyle Davies, Head of the Office of the CTO at CDW, Tim Russell, Chief Technologist for Modern Workspace, and Jaro Tomik, Chief Technologist for Digital Enablement, explore the strategies and tools needed to unlock exceptional digital experiences for both employees and customers.

 

The trio dive into how organizations can provide optimal user experiences by reimagining service management and enhancing user engagement across the business. From leveraging technologies to implementing best practices, they discuss how to create seamless, intuitive, and effective digital touchpoints that drive satisfaction and productivity.

 

Whether you're looking to improve internal workflows or elevate customer interactions, this episode is for you.

2024EP3 - Hybrid World: Securing your businesses future

Join Kyle Davies, Head of the Office of the CTO at CDW, Stephen Faulkner, Chief Technologist for Security, and Rob Sims, Chief Technologist for Hybrid Platforms, as they discuss the critical challenges and approaches for securing the hybrid world.

 

In this episode, the trio dive deep into the security strategies businesses need to thrive in today’s interconnected landscape. They explore how to visualize vulnerabilities, withstand evolving threats, and survive potential disruptions—all while maintaining business resilience. From leveraging AI-driven insights to building robust defense frameworks, this conversation equips organizations with actionable approaches to navigate the complexities of hybrid operations.

 

Don’t miss this engaging and insightful discussion on how to secure the hybrid world and safeguard your business’s future.

2024EP2 - Hybrid World: The Hybrid Workforce and Beyond the 3-Day Weekend

In this episode, Kyle Davies, Head of the Office of the CTO at CDW, sits down with Tim Russell, Chief Technologist for Modern Workspace, and Stephen Faulkner, Chief Technologist for Security, to delve into the evolving dynamics of the hybrid workforce. Together, they explore why the widely anticipated 3-day weekend hasn’t materialized and the realities shaping modern work-life balance.

From attracting and retaining top talent to ensuring that organizations can secure their most vulnerable assets—their people—this conversation blends cutting-edge insights on modern workplace technology, strategies for bolstering employee engagement, and critical approaches to safeguarding human and digital ecosystems in a hybrid era.

Tune in for actionable advice and fresh perspectives on navigating today’s complex workforce landscape, where innovation, culture, and security must converge for organizations to thrive.

BONUS - Retail Reimagined: Sustainability, Security, and Shrinkage in 2024 - Part 3

In this expert-led podcast series, Rob Sims is joined by a panel of retail industry leaders, including Ian Scott (Independent Retail Consultant), Peter Critchley (UK CEO, Trison), David Dobson (Global Industry Director, Retail at Intel Corporation), and Jane Liston (Head of Retail, CDW). Together, they explore the key issues shaping the retail sector in 2024 and beyond. In Part 1, the discussion revolves around sustainability and how retailers can meet growing environmental demands. Part 2 dives into the ever-important issue of security, addressing both digital and physical threats. Finally, in Part 3, the panel takes on the challenge of shrinkage, examining the factors behind it and strategies to minimize its impact.