Learn Online Security Podcast

If you don’t control your message—someone else will! What if your company’s private information suddenly became public—and you weren’t the one who shared it? In today’s episode of the Learn Online Security Podcast, Chris Howells, Director of IT and Head Instructor, explains how to take back control of your message when communication slips out of your hands. When unexpected events hit—like public a...

Wondering what happens to your old devices when they’re recycled, upgraded, or passed down? In this video, Chris and Sarah Howells from Learn Online Security explain how laptops, phones, printers, gaming systems, and even smart home devices can hold sensitive information—and why scammers target them. Learn practical tips for wiping, factory resetting, and safely disposing of your devices to protec...

Scammers are using your out-of-office replies against you! In this video, Chris Howells from Learn Online Security breaks down the most common and preventable attack happening today. Learn how AI and social engineering make it easier than ever for attackers to impersonate authority and trick YOU or your team into sending money or gift cards. Protect yourself and your business by understanding the...

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the world—but can it also put you at risk? In this episode of the Learn Online Security Podcast, Richard Bankert (Social Engineering Expert & CEO) and Chris Howells (Director of IT & Head Trainer) break down the hidden dangers of AI in cybersecurity. From data scraping and deepfakes to AI-powered scams and emotional manipulation through AI avatars, t...

You’re not alone in underestimating how easily authority can be faked! In this episode of the Learn Online Security Podcast , Richard Bankert and Chris Howells expose the hidden world of authority-based social engineering attacks — a psychological tactic hackers use to bypass security by posing as trusted figures. 🔍 What You’ll Learn : 📌What social engineering really is and why authority plays a...

Just like athletes review game film to win, you need to recognize the plays scammers run against you. In this perspective-changing episode of the Learn Online Security Podcast, we compare cybersecurity threats to professional sports strategy. 🎙️ Hosted by Tamara Michèle with experts Richard Bankert and Chris Howells, we uncover how most people are reacting too late—only seeing the scam, not the en...

When private medical records are dumped in an alley, who really pays the price? In this episode of the Learn Online Security Podcast, Tamara Michèle and Chris Howells unpack a disturbing privacy breach involving discarded psychiatric files and the fallout that followed. They explore the real-life consequences of identity theft, how sensitive data can be exploited, and the harsh truth that once you...

What if your biggest cybersecurity strength isn’t your tech—but your team? In this episode, Tamara Michèle talks with Kolbe Certified Consultant Blair Andrew about how fulfilled, valued employees are more than just productive—they’re protective. Blair shares how the Kolbe Index and OPgig platform help organizations align people with the roles that match how they naturally take action. When employe...

Why is it important to separate your identity from your experience after you’ve been scammed? In this episode, Tamara Michèle sits down with Deb Andrew a Life and Wellness Coach and co-founder of Altruistic Coach . They explore how emotional recovery, mindset shifts, and self-compassion are essential tools in rebuilding confidence and staying resilient against future scams. They unpack how scammer...

Ever wonder why you second-guess yourself online—then regret it? In this episode, Tamara Michèle sits down with Deb and Blair Andrew—co-founders of Altruistic Coach—to explore how self-awareness can be a secret weapon for online security. The couple introduces the Kolbe A. Index, a strengths-based assessment that reveals how you're hardwired to solve problems. From reducing risky behaviour to reso...

When you're planning the trip of a lifetime, how do you really know if that guide is legit? In this episode of the Learn Online Security podcast, host Tamara Michèle sits down with Melanie MacCarthy—co-owner of North Mountain Adventures and president of the Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association. From luxury cruises to remote cabins, Melanie breaks down how to protect yourself from fake listin...

When you cross a border, do your digital rights come with you? In this eye-opening episode of the Learn Online Security Podcast, host Tamara Michèle is joined by IT expert and founding member Chris Howells to unpack the reality of border security and personal privacy when travelling internationally—especially for Canadians heading to the U.S. 💡 Can border agents search your phone? 🔐 Are you lega...

What happens when a good employee makes a bad click? 💻💥 With an emphasis on preventing cyberattacks and ensuring team members feel valued even after a mistake, LEADERSHIP EXPERTS , David and Valerie McInnes share insights on how businesses can safeguard themselves in the ever-changing world of technology. From phishing attacks to ransomware, they discuss how businesses can be proactive instead o...

Are you aware of the trail of breadcrumbs you're leaving behind? From social media profiles to online search history, every click, like, and share contributes to your digital footprint. Print media can even be used to build a profile about you, your family or your company. These loose threads can unravel more about you than you’d like. In this episode of the Learn Online Security Podcast , Chris H...

Sarah Howells shares EYE-OPENING TRUE STORIES that reveal how misplaced trust can lead to danger and why recognizing the warning signs of grooming is vital to protecting our loved ones. We discuss online safety tips and the value of staying aware even in our physical communities. In this episode of Learn Online Security Podcast we learn why it’s so important to go with your gut. Join us as Sarah H...

In this Learn Online Security Podcast, we’re diving deep into the connection between influence and integrity with Bill Pipke, deep-thinker and author of Integrity: The Best Foundation . We explore how true influence isn’t just about charisma or followers—it’s about character. Bill shares his experiences, offering practical advice on how integrity can serve as the foundation for success in any ende...

Integrity isn't just a value—it’s the cornerstone of success in every aspect of life! In this episode, we explore the powerful role integrity plays in business, relationships, and life . Join us for an insightful conversation with author and integrity expert Bill Pipke on the Learn Online Security Podcast. Bill shares his experiences, offering practical advice on how integrity can serve as the fou...

If you're a parent , ANXIOUS about online threats, this video is a must-watch for valuable advice! In this podcast, we focus on keeping kids safe online. We discuss the risks they face in gaming apps, where they might unknowingly interact with strangers, and offer simple tips for parents to protect them. From setting up parental controls to monitoring screen time and teaching kids about the danger...

Don't make yourself a target! In this episode, we discuss the EYE-OPENING realities of social engineering in cyber attacks and internet fraud. Chris Howells shares how a data breach at a former employer led to his identity theft, motivating him to help others protect themselves. He explains that most cyber attacks are organized and often involve individuals with prior connections to their victims,...

Sometimes we live in a fairytale. We need to discuss the SHOCKING truth about cyber security in 2025 and how social engineering will play a part. In this Learn Online Security Podcast episode, we'll answer the following questions: What is the biggest threat to cybersecurity today? We'll empower people with knowledge and real-life facts about how social engineering works so they can identify red fl...