Shift Happens

Hacking the System: Embracing Audacity and Overcoming Self-Doubt with Maril Vernon

Cybersecurity is a dynamic and demanding battlefield, often lacking female representation. Maril Vernon saw this gap and boldly decided to dive in head first.
In this episode of Shift Happens, host Alana Bernal gets candid with Maril Vernon, Cyber Security Woman of the Year and all-star Principal Application Security Architect. Maril has smashed through glass ceilings and redefined success in a male-dominated arena. Her journey is a modern testament to relentless tenacity, unshakable self-belief, and the fierce power of embracing one's femininity. 
Show Highlights Include:
- Breaking into Cybersecurity: A Non-Technical Start 0:49
- From Marketing to Military: An Unconventional Path 1:18
- The Power of Networking: Leveraging Opportunities in the Guard 2:10
- Advocacy and Representation: Paving the Way for Women in Cyber 3:08
- Embracing Femininity in Tech 4:53
- Finding Your Niche: The Evolution of Cyber Queens Podcast 7:41
- Oh Shift Moment: Embracing Career Pivots and Challenges 8:09
- Overcoming Self-Doubt: The Importance of Self-Talk and Belief 10:07
- Recognition and Reflection 12:25
- Resources for Aspiring Cyber Professionals: Books, Podcasts, and More 14:42

Building Up a Company Starts with Building Up Its People

*Before tuning into this episode, make sure you listen to part one of Alana and Sri’s conversation.* 
 
You never judge. You never rush to a conclusion about a person. You always ask. You experience people rather than judge.
In this episode of "Shift Happens," host Alana Bernal picks up where she left off with Sri Hosakote, co-founder of Nile, diving deeper into how he's turning the networking world upside down. They explore how Sri's passion for mentoring meshes perfectly with his knack for innovation, breaking away from outdated norms to push for results-driven solutions. Tune in to hear Sri discuss why building a company at Nile goes hand in hand with building its people, and how he’s leading the charge toward a more dynamic and effective future in technology. 
 
Show Highlights Include: 
Breaking the Mold: Revamping Traditional Work Paradigms at 03:10Dive into revolutionary strategies that are reshaping the conventional workplace.
Customer First: The Keystone of Success at 04:45
Uncover why putting customers at the center of your strategy is not just important, but critical.
Startups: The Great Equalizer at 07:02
Explore how startups are dismantling barriers and democratizing opportunities for all.
The Speed-Quality Tightrope: Mastering the Balance in Startups at 09:17
Discover the art of blending rapid progress with high-caliber output in the dynamic world of startups.
Visionary Leadership: Crafting Tomorrow's Opportunities at 10:48
Gain insights into forward-thinking leadership philosophies that pave the way for future breakthroughs.
The Art of Healthy Paranoia in Leadership at 13:34
Learn why a touch of paranoia can be a leader’s secret weapon in navigating uncertain waters.
Want more Nile? 
Watch our live global broadcast: A New Era in Enterprise Networking https://insights.nilesecure.com/broadcast 

The Art of Starting Over

The IT organization is evolving. The only frontier which has been sort of not touched for the last 40 years has been the network. 
 
The thought of hitting reset is daunting, but sometimes, it's exactly what's needed to push forward. This ethos is at the heart of this Shift Happens episode with Sri, Co-Founder and Chief Development Officer of Nile. Tune in as he shares his philosophy on innovation and the imperative to diverge from traditional networking frameworks—embodying the spirit of "Reset, Revive, Revolutionize.”
 
Show Highlights Include: 
A New Dawn for Enterprise Networking 1:46
Wi-Fi as a Fundamental Right: Envisioning Universal Access 2:09
Echoes of Amazon's Revolution 2:32
Elevating Experiences: Prioritizing Service in the Digital Age 6:04
Core Priorities: Enhancing Performance, Availability, and Coverage 7:18
The Shift from Products to Services 10:13
Redefining Design Philosophy: Beyond the Standard Features 10:29
Outcome-Oriented Innovation: Backward Design for Forward Success 16:08
Networking’s New Horizon: Venturing Into Uncharted Territory 18:50
 
Want more Nile? 
Sign up for our live global broadcast: A New Era in Enterprise Networking https://insights.nilesecure.com/broadcast 

AI Networking: Just the Facts

Today we're slicing through the buzz to spotlight AI networking with Pete Sakosky from Nile. Pete's going to light up our understanding of AI's role in revolutionizing how networks operate—automating the mundane, predicting potential snags, and preempting issues before they can even rear their heads. 
With Nile, Pete demonstrates that AI in networking isn't just a distant dream but a present reality, setting new groundbreaking standards for network capabilities. But it’s not just about what networks do—it’s how they think and respond to the intricate demands of today's IT operations that really sets the bar. 
Join us for an honest, no-filter conversation with Pete as he breaks down AI networking, showing us the reality behind the hype and offering a glimpse into the technology that’s reshaping our digital infrastructure. Feeling AI-curious? Pete’s insights into Nile’s innovative approach promise an episode you don't want to miss. 
Show Highlights Include:
- Introduction to Pete's Background: 00:00
- Evolution of Enterprise Networking: 02:22
- Challenges Faced by IT Teams: 05:58
- Customization in Modern Enterprise LAN: 09:55
- Solving Budget Issues with AI Networking: 11:38
- Saving Time with AI Automation:13:50
- Key Requirements for AI Networking Solutions: 15:20
- Pete 's Oh Shift Moment in his Career: 17:50
- See You On The Next Shift!: 20:18
Want more Nile? 
Sign up for our live global broadcast: A New Era in Enterprise Networking https://insights.nilesecure.com/broadcast 
Connect with Pete here or Pete@nilesecure.com 

Frontline Frenemies: The Ongoing Clash Between IT and Security

In this episode of "Shift Happens," our host Alana is joined by Derek Gwinnup, a seasoned Solutions Architect at Nile, for a deep dive into the dynamic and sometimes turbulent interactions between IT operations and security teams in the realm of network enterprise. With a rich background in evolving IT infrastructure, ranging from data center updates to cloud transitions and digital overhauls, Derek sheds light on how these changes influence business operations. Throughout the episode, the dialogue evolves to dissect the challenges and strategies essential for reconciling the differences between these pivotal teams, aiming to cultivate a cohesive and fortified network landscape.
Show Highlights Include:
00:00:15 - Welcome Derek!
00:00:42 - Derek's Epic Saga in IT Operations
00:01:22 - The Dramatic Prelude to an IT vs. Security Showdown
00:02:39 - The Rising Tension: Security Framework Face-off
00:04:11 - The Odyssey of Adopting New Security Frontiers
00:06:11 - Nile's Innovative Map for Devices and Users
00:07:13 - Decoding Nile's Secret Authentication Alchemy
00:08:06 - Crafting Nile's All-Encompassing Security Shield
00:09:22 - A Riveting Tale of Network Security Triumph
00:10:36 - Unveiling the Power of Nile's Authentication Engine
00:12:22 - See You On The Next Shift!

The Difference Between Good and Great IT Leaders with Doug Ullman

Dive into this episode of Shift Happens as we catch up with Doug Ullman, the mastermind behind Global IT Operations at Valmont Industries. From his first IT gig in highschool to leading a fortune 750 manufacturing giant, Doug unravels the art of simplicity and efficacy in the tech world. With a keen eye on cutting-edge automation, he shares the secret sauce to eliminating grunt work and elevating productivity. But that’s just the beginning.
Doug ventures beyond borders, revealing the magic of seamless communication and cultural finesse in managing tech teams across the globe. Through a blend of wisdom from the halls of higher education to the hustle of manufacturing floors, he highlights the ultimate goal: satisfying user needs. 
Get ready for a rollercoaster of insights, topped with a hilarious tale of a Windows 10 upgrade escapade that took an unexpected turn. This episode transcends the usual podcast format; it's a goldmine of IT engineering insights, a celebration of putting users first, and a tribute to the bold leadership required to steer global tech teams.
Show Highlights Include:
00:10:25-00:10:35 | To be unclear is to be unkind.
00:12:36-00:12:47 | Just because you automated it doesn't make it right.
00:20:55-00:21:05 | Meeting end users where they are.
00:21:37-00:21:47 | Ensuring that you have robust infrastructure on the back end.
00:18:43-00:18:54 | The biggest change that I've seen is that there's a whole lot more value on the generalist.
00:25:26-00:25:36 | Developing something in the lab and then going, 'Alright' and promising on that.
00:26:49-00:27:00 | Working through the “oh no seconds”
00:12:47-00:12:58 | Automation is important, but you want to automate the right thing.
Want to learn more about Nile? 
Check out Ozer’s Nile Explored Webinar: https://insights.nilesecure.com/nile-explored-the-future-of-wired-and-wireless-networks
The Nile Discovered Demo: https://insights.nilesecure.com/nile-discovered-next-gen-wired-wireless-access-networks-in-action

Customer to Cultivator: Life on the Nile

Here at Nile we are customer obsessed. In today's episode of "Shift Happens," we welcome  special guest Kevin Burgess, who not only advises Nile but also has the unique experience of being a former Nile customer. His journey with the company offers a fascinating dual perspective on the evolution of enterprise networking. Kevin brings to life the journey of Nile's development, comparing its seamless integration and operation to the transformative impacts seen in other tech industries.
Want more insights into how Nile is reshaping the landscape of enterprise networking and solving real customer challenges? Tune in!
 
 
Want more Nile?
Check out Ozer’s Nile Explored Webinar: https://insights.nilesecure.com/nile-explored-the-future-of-wired-and-wireless-networks
 
The Nile Discovered Demo: https://insights.nilesecure.com/nile-discovered-next-gen-wired-wireless-access-networks-in-action
 
To connect with Kevin, email him at kevin@nilesecure.com or find him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinburgess2018/

Why should I risk it with a start up?

Struggling to trust a startup? We get it! That's why we've brought in Austin Hawthorne, a veteran with over 25 years in enterprise networking, to shed light on Nile's unique offerings as a new player. This episode dives into Nile's architecture, the importance of simplicity in network management, and the crucial role of security. If you're curious about the future of networking and how Nile is revolutionizing the industry, this episode is a must-listen.

Network Nirvana or Digital Dystopia? Bold Predictions for Enterprise Networking in 2024

In this episode of ”'Shift Happens,” Ozer and Ray,  with a pulse on the current state of IT, offer their expert insights on the future of IT infrastructure and networking. They dissect key trends and provide bold, sometimes controversial, predictions for 2024. Tune in and let us know if you agree with their predictions!
  
Show Highlights Include:
1. Operational Strain on IT Teams : Both guests agreed that IT teams are under immense pressure due to increasing demands and limited resources. Ozer emphasized the operational burden, especially for smaller companies, while Ray highlighted the economic implications and the need for managed services to alleviate these pressures.
2. Network as a Service (NaaS) : The definition of NaaS is expected to crystallize, with incumbent vendors potentially resisting the change. Ozer defined NaaS as a means to simplify and innovate IT infrastructure, while Ray discussed its growth and the importance of delivering economic value alongside technological advancements.
3. AI Networking : The conversation shifted to AI's role in networking, with predictions that AI will move beyond alerts and recommendations to self-tuning and self-healing networks. Ray stressed that AI should be invisible to the customer, enhancing the user experience without them noticing.
4. Cloud-Native Principles : Both guests agreed that cloud-native principles are essential for next-generation networks. Ozer argued that without cloud software, next-generation networks would struggle to exist, while Ray pointed out the operational efficiencies and economic impacts that cloud-native solutions can bring.
Connect with the Guests
Listeners interested in further discussion or seeking more information can reach out to the guests via email or LinkedIn:
Ozer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ozerdo/
Ray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-mota-phd-aba8113/ 
 
Want more Nile?
Check out Ozer’s Nile Explored Webinar: https://insights.nilesecure.com/nile-explored-the-future-of-wired-and-wireless-networks
 
The Nile Discovered Demo: https://insights.nilesecure.com/nile-discovered-next-gen-wired-wireless-access-networks-in-action

From Working with Mother Teresa to Head of Engineering with Bhaskar Ghosh

Welcome back to Shift Happens.  Today, Alana is sitting down with one of tech's brightest beacons - Bhaskar Ghosh, CTO at 8VC.  From rubbing shoulders with the who's who in Silicon Valley to sharing tea with Mother Teresa, Ghosh's colorful journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Discover how he's breaking barriers, innovating industries, and stirring up seismic shifts in tech.  We'll discuss his unexpected collaborations with Nile that are reshaping enterprise networking. Plus, get an insider look at how Ghosh strikes a unique balance between disruption and compassion, revealing the keys to his success in the tech universe.  Want an insider's peek into Ghosh's life mantra? Ready to decode his secrets for a balanced, impactful life? Then buckle up and tune in—it's time to unravel the enigma that is Ghosh! Show highlights include: Creative success and burnout lead to becoming a prolific angel investor and advisor  [01:52] Merging civic engagement with spirituality in charitable endeavors  [06:56] What is the key to embodying a spirit of service and being a change agent? How can one discover and learn these qualities? [00:10:27] Being a change agent in the context of Mother Teresa's spirit of service [00:13:04] How can you be an influential leader who embodies the spirit of service in a competitive environment? [00:15:31] What is the art of being an influencer change agent? [00:20:31] Ghosh’s relationship with his mentor Pankaj and what he’s learned from Pankaj's expertise as a potential change agent [00:22:53] How can we learn to simplify complexities in enterprise networking? [00:25:46] What can insults and negative feedback teach us? [00:29:08] What is the key to finding meaning in life after building a successful career? [00:32:37] For more information about Nile, go to https://nilesecure.com/ or connect with us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/nilesecure/