NSI Podcast

In this episode, we cut through cybersecurity hype to focus on what actually reduces risk. We discuss how much reliance organizations should place on tools like EDR, why monitoring and SOC capabilities still matter, and the one internal security win CISOs should be prioritizing today. Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them forecast needs, streamline op...

In this episode, we explore Trevor’s career journey—from starting as a programmer to becoming the CIO of the University of Central Arkansas—and dive into how technology is transforming higher education. We’ll discuss innovation, budgeting, AI in the classroom, lessons from leading through COVID, and what the future holds for universities navigating rapid change. Next Step Innovation is a technolog...

What separates great leaders from great problem-solvers? In Part 2 of our conversation with high-performance coach Annebelle Davies, we focus on teams, culture, and leadership evolution. This episode covers how IT and security leaders can transition from firefighting to strategic leadership, how culture and communication shape performance, and why energy—not just time—is one of the most overlooked...

High-pressure leadership comes with real consequences—burnout, fatigue, and constant crisis response. In this episode, high-performance coach Annebelle Davies joins the podcast to unpack how executives can maintain clarity, resilience, and effectiveness in demanding roles like cybersecurity leadership. We explore burnout prevention, boundaries, recovery after major incidents, and the habits that a...

We’re joined by Vicki Farnsworth, CIO at The University of Mississippi, for a powerful conversation on how technology is reshaping higher education. From leading AI initiatives to navigating cybersecurity and academic integrity, Vicki shares what it takes to foster innovation while staying true to the mission of higher ed. Listen as she reflects on her journey from Purdue and UT Chattanooga to Ole...

In this episode, Jon Green, Chief Technology and Security Officer at HPE Aruba, joins us to discuss how hybrid work, AI, and geopolitics are reshaping the cybersecurity landscape. John shares insights on what enterprises often get right—and wrong—about Zero Trust architectures, how AI is transforming both cyberattacks and defenses, and how global tensions influence security strategy for a worldwid...

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Sasse, CEO of Metova—a technology consulting firm driving digital transformation across industries. From app development and IoT to fintech innovation, Jonathan shares how Metova stays ahead in an ever-evolving tech landscape. We dive into Metova’s unique approach to software development, what it takes to build lasting client relationships, and how to fos...

In this episode, we sit down with Trent Townsend, CEO of Next Step Innovation (NSI), to explore the story behind one of the region’s fastest-growing tech companies. From humble beginnings to major federal contracts, Trent walks us through NSI’s evolution into a force in networking, security, and custom CRM solutions. We discuss what it really takes to start and scale a business, how NSI carved out...

In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Mathews, Vice President of Global Learning and Innovation at Oral Roberts University, to talk about the big changes happening in education. Mike shares how ORU is leading the way with whole person education—a model that doesn’t just focus on academics, but the mind, body, and spirit. From giving every student a Fitbit to track engagement, to using AI to person...

In this episode of the NSI Podcast , we’re joined by Gene Patrick, author of his recent white paper "Human vs. Machine: The Strengths and Weaknesses of Automated Penetration Testing" , along with Cybersecurity Engineer Joseph Allen and Dr. David O’Gywnn, Director of our Cybersecurity team. We dive deep into the world of penetration testing—comparing automated tools with manual approaches...

Calling all bourbon lovers! This episode adds a flavorful twist with a blind bourbon tasting woven into the conversation. Join us as we sit down with Jana Branham, CIO of Ergon, to talk tech, leadership, and a little whiskey wisdom. Don’t miss this fun and insightful mix of spirits and strategy! Tasting 1; ⁠ Small Batch — Calumet Farm Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey⁠ Tasting 2: ⁠ Dareringer - Ra...

In this episode, we sit down with Todd Borland, Executive Director of Technology at Union Public Schools, to explore 25 years of public sector tech leadership. Todd shares how K-12 technology has evolved—from early infrastructure to today’s cybersecurity challenges, remote learning, and cloud adoption. We dive into cyber incidents caused by students, the surprising rise of esports and drone league...

Stephen Tycer joins Cyber Perspective to dive into all things cybersecurity—from his unique journey transitioning from the oil and gas industry to higher education, to the evolving landscape of cyber threats and innovations. This episode explores emerging technologies that are both exciting and unsettling, offering insights into how commercial and academic worlds are responding to today’s cybersec...

With over 20 years experience of strategic IT leadership, Dr. Nishanth Rodrigues comes from the University of Mississippi as the Chief Information Officer to the University of Oklahoma in Norman. Tune in for his view on new emerging technologies and great ideas on how to be more effective with time management.    Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to help them...

Join us as we dive deep into the latest AI-driven cyber threats, from deepfakes and automated phishing to self-learning malware and AI-powered hacking. Featuring expert insights from our director of cybersecurity, Dr. David O’Gwynn and unpack the risks, defenses, and ethical dilemmas shaping the future of digital security. Next Step Innovation is a technology company that partners with clients to...

Today is our first episode of our new series with top technology leaders: Meet IT Leaders. Today, we have Paige Francis, CIO of Art and Wellness Enterprises.  She is a forbes contributor, author and IT expert with over 15 years of experience of impactful leadership. We go over how she made her way to the top as a CIO, and how to build a culture of excellence.  As an IT Leader, she always has the e...