The Weekly Run-Down 11/25 - 29

Welcome to another edition of The Weekly Run Down! As we close out November, this week’s episodes of The Other Side of the Firewall take us on a wild journey—from unboxing nostalgia with the PlayStation 5 Pro to dissecting the latest in cybersecurity threats. We explored lighter topics like gaming and entertainment while tackling critical discussions on ransomware recruitment, pig butchering scams, and North Korea’s cyber-funded missile programs. Plus, don’t miss our inspiring interview with Kenneth Ellington, Cyber Security Instructor , whose passion for inclusivity in cybersecurity is shaping the future of the industry.

Whether you’re here to recharge with some gaming banter or dive into deep cybersecurity insights, there’s something for everyone. Let’s go!

Taking Over The Airwaves

2024 has been an incredible year for The Other Side of the Firewall! We’ve worked hard to bring our cybersecurity news and insights to even more platforms, ensuring you can stay informed wherever you are.

Here’s where you can catch us:

🎥 YouTube: Watch daily for visual content that breaks down the latest in cybersecurity.

🎧 Podcast Platforms: Listen on the go with your favorite podcast app.

📻 Heroes Media Group: Broadcasting our content alongside a lineup of inspiring shows.

📡 99.1 FM Atlanta & TuneIn App: Tune in every Tuesday at 5 PM EST for hour-long episodes.

🎬 ReppedFlix by Repped In Tech®: Curated episodes focused on industry insights and innovation.

And the best part? Starting soon, our show will air weekly on Fairfax/DC’s Public Access Channel 10!

We’re expanding, evolving, and bringing you the content you love in more ways than ever before. As we gear up for 2025, we can’t wait to share even more exciting updates with you.

No matter where you are, stay informed and stay connected—The Other Side of the Firewall has got you covered! 🔥

Barely Gaming

Join me, Ryan Williams Sr. , as I dive into a wave of gaming nostalgia with an exclusive, limited-edition collectible that’s sure to hit every retro fan right in the feels! This unboxing is more than just opening a box—it’s a celebration of the unforgettable moments that shaped our love for gaming.

Inside the video, I’ll explore:

🔥 Iconic designs that bring gaming’s golden days back to life.

🔥 Rare collectibles crafted for true fans of the classics.

🔥 My candid reactions to holding a piece of gaming history.

Whether you’re a collector or simply someone who loves reliving the magic of gaming’s past, this video is a must-watch.

🎉 Watch now and share in the joy of unlocking something truly special!

💬 What’s your most treasured piece of gaming memorabilia? Let’s geek out in the comments and relive the memories together!

Friday: The Weekly Run Down 11/29

Sometimes, stepping away from the technical grind and embracing life’s lighter moments can be just as productive as solving a problem or delivering a project. In this week’s episode of The Other Side of the Firewall, Shannon and I took a break from cybersecurity talk to focus on the shows, movies, and games that have captured our attention. From discussing the highs and lows of TV series like The Day of the Jackal and Brilliant Minds to marveling at epic gaming experiences like Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2, it was a reminder that downtime fuels creativity. Even a seemingly casual pursuit like unboxing the nostalgic PlayStation 5 Pro 30th Anniversary Edition can connect us to the stories and communities that inspire us daily.

Ask a CISSP: Ft. Kenneth Ellington, Founder of ECA

In our last episode of Ask a CISSP episode of The Other Side of the Firewall, Kenneth Ellington, Cyber Security Instructor , founder of Ellington Cyber Academy , shares his inspiring journey from cybersecurity specialist to successful entrepreneur. Kenneth’s vision is to create a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals, focusing on inclusivity and quality. He’s aiming to reach $2 million in government contracts by 2025, and he’s well on his way! Hear about his unique business model, his advice on navigating the industry, and his commitment to sustainable growth.

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Wednesday: Russia Steps Up Ransomware Recruitment

In this episode of The Other Side of the Firewall, we unpack how ransomware gangs are recruiting pen testers through black-market sites like RAMP. Tempted by big payouts, some professionals risk their careers—and certifications—for quick cash. We also discuss why organizations need AI-acceptable use policies to safeguard sensitive data. Listen now for insights on staying ethical and secure in today’s cybersecurity landscape.

Tuesday: Meta’s War On Pig Butchering

In this episode of The Other Side of the Firewall Podcast, we tackle the rise of pig butchering scams. These social engineering schemes build trust through fake accounts, then target victims with fraudulent investment opportunities. Platforms like Meta are stepping up, but individual vigilance is critical. Tune in for insights on staying safe online and protecting your digital footprint.

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Monday: How North Korea Funds Its Missile Programs Through Cyber Scams

In this week's episode The Other Side of the Firewall podcast, we explore Meta’s recent takedown of millions of fake accounts linked to pig butchering scams—an alarming scheme where scammers build trust over time before financially exploiting victims. These scams highlight the need for stronger platform verification and greater user awareness to combat evolving cyber threats. Learn how these schemes work, what Meta can do to prevent them, and practical steps to protect yourself from becoming a target.

Wrapping Up

Thank you for joining us for this week’s The Weekly Run-Down! From entertainment’s power to spark creativity to the latest pressing cybersecurity issues, we’ve covered a lot of ground. As always, balance is the key—whether that’s stepping away from the grind to enjoy a game or doubling down on staying vigilant against cyber threats.

Stay tuned for more episodes of The Other Side of the Firewall podcast on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Fridays, as well as the Ask A CISSP podcast every Thursday. Please like, share, and subscribe.

Stay safe, stay secure!

Next Guest on Ask A CISSP: Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) Executive Director

We are very excited to welcome Lynn Dohm . Lynn is a trailblazer in cybersecurity workforce development, focusing on the industry’s most valuable asset: its people. As the Executive Director of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) , she has dedicated over 16 years to fostering inclusion, allyship, and the advancement of women in the field. Lynn’s strategic leadership has positioned WiCyS as a model for collaborative workforce development, aligning organizations across sectors to drive recruitment, retention, and career growth for women in cybersecurity. Her accolades, including an honorary Doctor of Science & Technology, recognition as one of CS Hub’s Top 25 Cybersecurity Leaders, and multiple industry awards, underscore her transformative impact on the cybersecurity community.

Ryan is a retired Air Force veteran who brings over 20 years of experience in network infrastructure, project management, and cybersecurity consulting to his current roles at RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC and BuddoBot. Buddobot’s mission is to support national security by transforming, empowering, and educating organizations to shift from reactive, diluted, automated, and high-cost IT and security practices to proactive, effective solutions that fortify their security.

Shannon, also a retired Air Force veteran, has more than two decades of expertise in network security and vulnerability management. He now serves as an Information System Security Officer (ISSO) for the U.S. Space Force, where he continues to enhance national security protocols.

Chris, a Navy veteran with over ten years in IT, information assurance, and risk management, currently works at CompliancePoint. His roles include vCISO, RMF assessor, and consultant, focusing on enhancing data security and privacy for various organizations.

Daniel is an Air Force veteran with over 15 years of combined experience in IT, cybersecurity, information assurance, and government risk compliance. He has held various roles, including IT administrator, cybersecurity engineer, senior information system security manager, and currently serves as a senior security consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton. In this latest role, Daniel leverages his expertise to address unique and complex challenges in the cyber and IT domains, enhancing his customers’ capabilities.

**The Other Side of the Firewall podcast is a product of RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC. RAM Cyber is a premier governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) consultancy dedicated to supporting the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), federal agencies, and corporate entities. We specialize in delivering expert guidance to ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance cybersecurity postures. RAM Cyber is pending SDVOSB, VOSB, and 8(a) certification by the SBA, underscoring our commitment to excellence and service.