CyBytes

About CyBytes

CyBytes is a podcast that features bite-sized conversations with tech and cybersecurity pros - sharing insights, stories, and actionable advice to help you navigate and thrive in the industry

Publisher

Nik Mohanlal

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Feb 2025

Latest episode

26 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   26 Oct 2026

   the personality behind incident response | Renzon Cruz

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter You don’t need to pretend you know everything to become good at cybersecurity. Renzon steps back from the technical side of DFIR and talk more about how he approaches the work itself. We get into dealing with stress, switching off after difficult incident-response engagements, mentoring students and why Renzon is comfortable telling someone: He also talks about what keeps him sane outside work, why he enjoys teaching and the satisfaction of hearing that something he taught helped someone land a job or answer an interview question. A more personal look at the mindset behind someone working across incident response, threat research, training and the cybersecurity community. Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Renzon here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4gT2KNf GuideM Cyber Training - https://bit.ly/4qGzU6b XINTRA - https://www.xintra.org/ DFIR Report - https://thedfirreport.com/

2. 

   19 Oct 2026

   what cyber training STILL gets wrong in 2026 | Renzon Cruz

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter Renzon and I both spend a lot of time building and delivering cyber training, so we get into what we think is still missing. And something that’s much harder to teach: the human element. We talk about the need for affordable hands-on training built around current threats, why fundamentals are still so important, and why students shouldn’t rush straight into the flashy tools without understanding what’s happening underneath them. Renzon also talks about his work building training through Guide Them and creating APT-focused blue-team labs with XINTRA. Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Renzon here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4gT2KNf GuideM Cyber Training - https://bit.ly/4qGzU6b XINTRA - https://www.xintra.org/ DFIR Report - https://thedfirreport.com/

3. 

   12 Oct 2026

   how to build a successful cyber-security career in UAE | Renzon Cruz

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter The UAE has become an incredibly attractive place to build a cybersecurity career. The competition is getting tougher and tougher Sometimes the best career advice really is simple: show up, meet people and ask questions. Renzon talks about his experience working in the UAE, the growth of the local cybersecurity community and why simply being technically good isn’t always enough to get ahead. We get into networking, mentorship, communities like 971Sec, attending meetups and actually approaching people who are already doing the job you want to do. Renzon also shares the harder side of the market: more people wanting to move to the UAE, increasing expectations from employers and the lack of opportunities available to some fresh graduates. Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Renzon here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4gT2KNf GuideM Cyber Training - https://bit.ly/4qGzU6b XINTRA - https://www.xintra.org/ DFIR Report - https://thedfirreport.com/

4. 

   5 Oct 2026

   what incident response REALLY looks like | Renzon Cruz

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter Incident response looks very different when you’re dealing with a real organisation, real attackers and a very stressed client. Renzon shares his actual experience on what Incident Response actually looks and feels like. What 'scoping an incident' means and understanding the environment to staying calm when everyone around you is panicking. We shares some crazy war stories, including discovering attackers who had been inside environments for years, investigating two different APT groups targeting the same organisation, and negotiating with a threat actor while he was supposed to be on holiday. We also talk about why incident response isn’t just about tools and logs. Sometimes the most important skill is being the person who can calmly tell everyone what happens next. Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Renzon here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4gT2KNf GuideM Cyber Training - https://bit.ly/4qGzU6b XINTRA - https://www.xintra.org/ DFIR Report - https://thedfirreport.com/

5. 

   28 Sept 2026

   actual tips on preparing for your first cybersecurity job in GCC | Anya Shpilman

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter What should you actually be doing before applying for your first cybersecurity job? We talk about what students and graduates can do to prepare for the GCC cybersecurity market, why hands-on experience matters, finding mentors, trying different areas of cyber and why simply messaging recruiters asking them to “find me a job” probably isn’t going to work. One of the biggest themes: build things. Projects, blogs, labs, portfolios and genuine curiosity give people something to notice — especially when you don’t have years of professional experience behind you yet. Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Anya here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/46h5n6i CyberFused - https://www.cyberfused.com/ Follow Karim here Linkedin - https://bit.ly/4zAGDmf

6. 

   21 Sept 2026

   CyberFused can help new cyber companies find the best people in UAE | Anya Shpilman

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter What does it actually take to build a cybersecurity team in the Middle East? Not every client is a good client. Anya Shpilman founded CyberFused to specialise in exactly that. We get into how CyberFused works, why Anya moved towards an embedded recruitment model, what happens when a company comes to her with multiple vacancies and why international cybersecurity vendors often struggle when they first start hiring in the GCC. Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Anya here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/46h5n6i CyberFused - https://www.cyberfused.com/ Follow Karim here Linkedin - https://bit.ly/4zAGDmf

7. 

   14 Sept 2026

   how geopolitics affects cyber jobs in the Gulf | Anya Shpilman

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter Anya shares what she has personally seen across cybersecurity recruitment in the UAE Including jobs being put on hold, offers being withdrawn and companies becoming much more cautious with hiring budgets. With the current tension in the region, what are companies to do? Subscribe to CyBytes for more conversations with people actually working in cybersecurity across the UAE and beyond Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Anya here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/46h5n6i CyberFused - https://www.cyberfused.com/ Follow Karim here Linkedin - https://bit.ly/4zAGDmf

8. 

   7 Sept 2026

   how cybersecurity hiring actually works in UAE | Anya Shpilman

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter What actually happens when a company in Dubai needs to hire someone in cybersecurity? It’s a lot more complicated than posting a job on LinkedIn and waiting for the right CV. I test Anya on how she approaches a new cyber job off the cuff.  From understanding what the hiring manager actually needs, setting realistic salary expectations and finding candidates, through to shortlisting, interviews and negotiating the final offer. Subscribe to CyBytes for more conversations with people actually working in cybersecurity across the UAE and beyond. Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Anya here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/46h5n6i CyberFused - https://www.cyberfused.com/ Follow Karim here Linkedin - https://bit.ly/4zAGDmf

9. 

   31 Aug 2026

   has AI made cybersecurity hiring easier? | Anya Shpilman

   Subscribe to CyBytes Newsletter https://cybytes.io/newsletter In this episode of CyBytes, I sit down with cybersecurity recruiter and CyberFused founder Anya Shpilman to talk about how AI is changing recruitment in the GCC, where it genuinely helps, where it falls short, and why human relationships still matter when you’re hiring people We get into the ever lasting dead internet theory. AI-generated CVs, automated applications, AI interviews and the tools Anya actually uses in her own work. Subscribe to CyBytes for more conversations with people actually working in cybersecurity across the UAE and beyond Follow CyBytes LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cybytespodcast Youtube -  @cybytespodcast Substack - cybytes.substack.com Follow Nik here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/4dGiIY9 Follow Anya here LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/46h5n6i CyberFused - https://www.cyberfused.com/ Follow Karim here Linkedin - https://bit.ly/4zAGDmf

10. 

    15 Sept 2025

    New Generation Cyber Training: Bhavikas Journey as an Educator

    Bhavika Ketani, a cybersecurity lecturer, discusses the crucial role of education in cybersecurity, her journey into teaching, and bridging the gap between academia and industry in this interview episode.

11. 

    2 Sept 2025

    Building A Cyber Security Company in Dubai: William Wrights Story

    Host William Wright, CEO of Closed Door Security, shares his entrepreneurial journey and insights on building a cybersecurity company in Dubai.

12. 

    16 May 2025

    Renze Jongman | From Law Enforcement to AI Cyber Threat Intel Startup

    Summary In this conversation, Renze Jongman shares his journey from law enforcement to the world of cybersecurity, detailing his experiences in threat intelligence and the cultural dynamics of working in the UAE. He discusses the importance of AI in enhancing threat intelligence capabilities through his company, Liberty 91, and emphasizes the need for continuous learning and networking in the cybersecurity field. Renze also reflects on the challenges and rewards of building a startup in this space, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and cybersecurity professionals. Get in Touch! Liberty91.com (https://liberty91.com/) (contact@liberty91.com) Renze Jongman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/renzejongman/)Nik Mohanlal (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikmohanlal/) Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Background of Renze 00:16 Transition from Law Enforcement to Cybersecurity 01:53 The Role of Threat Intelligence in Cybersecurity 04:43 The Importance of Coding in Cybersecurity 07:39 Cultural Differences in Work Environments 10:23 Experiences of Moving to the UAE 12:46 Work Culture in Cybersecurity in the UAE 15:30 Navigating Office Politics in Cybersecurity 17:52 The Reality of Working in Cybersecurity 20:46 Personal Journey into Cybersecurity 23:41 The Impact of Child Protection Cases on Career Choices 25:39 Collaboration with the FBI: Uncovering Suspects 27:45 Learning and Skill Development in Cybersecurity 30:32 The Importance of Curiosity and Initiative 32:44 Finding Balance: Life Outside Cybersecurity 34:54 Introducing Liberty 91: A Threat Intelligence Platform 38:42 Leveraging AI for Threat Intelligence 43:38 Building Liberty 91: The Journey of Entrepreneurship 47:17 Future Developments and Accessibility in Threat Intelligence 49:34 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Cybersecurity Takeaways Renze transitioned from law enforcement to cybersecurity to pursue an international career. Threat intelligence is crucial for informed decision-making in cybersecurity. Cultural differences play a significant role in the workplace, especially in the UAE. AI can enhance threat intelligence by automating data collection and analysis. Building a network is essential for success in entrepreneurship and cybersecurity. Continuous learning is vital for growth in the cybersecurity field. Liberty 91 aims to make threat intelligence accessible and affordable for mid-sized businesses. The journey of building a startup involves both product development and marketing efforts. AI can help tailor threat intelligence reports for different organizations. Maintaining a work-life balance is important for long-term success.

13. 

    28 Mar 2025

    Joan Vidal - SOC Lead | From Dominican Republic to Ransomware

    In todays episode, Joan shares his remarkable journey from a curious high school student to a cybersecurity professional in the UAE. He discusses his early influences, the challenges he faced in transitioning to cybersecurity roles, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Joan emphasizes the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and the value of certifications in the cybersecurity field. He also touches on his passion for voice acting and his desire to support the Dominican community in the UAE by sharing valuable information and experiences. Get in touch! Joan Vidal - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanvidale/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/joan.vidal.e/) Nik Mohanlal - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikmohanlal/) Timestamps 00:00 The Journey into Cybersecurity 01:40 Early Experiences and Career Development 02:20 Transitioning into Cybersecurity Roles 04:57 The Impact of Curiosity in Cybersecurity 08:10 Facing Challenges and Building Skills 10:21 Defining Moments in Cybersecurity 13:03 The Thrill of Real-Time Incident Response 16:59 Navigating Ransomware Challenges 20:31 The Excitement of Cyber Defense 22:24 Red Teaming Insights and Community Engagement 24:32 The Joy of Incident Response 27:29 Bridging Programming and Cybersecurity 30:36 The Importance of Community in Cybersecurity 31:22 Certifications: A Pathway to Cybersecurity Mastery 40:41 The Value of Cybersecurity Certifications 43:36 The Shift Towards Practical Cyber Training 46:54 Challenges in the Cybersecurity Landscape 52:32 Exploring Voice Acting as a Passion 58:34 Supporting the Dominican Community in UAE 01:05:40 Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals Takeaways Joan's journey in cybersecurity began in high school. He transitioned from IT support to cybersecurity roles. Curiosity drives Joan's passion for investigations in cybersecurity. Facing a ransomware incident was a defining moment for him. He emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge in cybersecurity. Joan has experience in both red teaming and blue teaming. He values certifications like CISSP for career advancement. Joan encourages aspiring professionals to apply widely for job opportunities. He shares his passion for voice acting and its connection to his acting dreams. Joan aims to support the Dominican community in the UAE through knowledge sharing.

14. 

    28 Mar 2025

    Anya Shpilman - Cyber Recruiter | UAE Cyber Jobs, The hard truth

    In this episode of CyBytes, I get to interview Anya Shpilman, a recruitment powerhouse in the cybersecurity sector. We talk about the challenges of recruitment in the UAE, the impact of AI on the hiring process, and the importance of networking and personal branding. Anya shares her journey into recruitment, the current job market dynamics, and her plans for expanding cybersecurity services in the region. We go over the significance of community in cybersecurity and offers valuable advice for new graduates entering the field. Get in touch! Anya Shpilman - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anyashpilman/) CyberFused - Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtyXqd6u0jLkjQTPE7sGMig) Nik Mohanlal - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikmohanlal/) Timestamps 00:00 The Evolution of Recruitment Processes 00:43 The Role of AI in Recruitment 01:52 Challenges Faced by Recruiters 05:35 Advice for New Graduates 07:31 The Importance of Personal Branding 10:03 Networking in the Cybersecurity Community 13:16 The Importance of Sharing Knowledge in Cybersecurity 13:47 Navigating Imposter Syndrome in Tech Recruitment 15:54 Transitioning from Recruitment to MSSP Partnerships 17:55 The Evolution of the Cybersecurity Job Market 19:55 Challenges in the UAE Job Market 21:55 The Maturity of Cybersecurity Teams in the UAE 25:37 The Future of Cybersecurity in the Middle East 29:02 Expanding Cybersecurity Services in Saudi Arabia Takeaways Anya fell into recruitment by chance, but found it rewarding. The recruitment process in the UAE is complex and often broken. Networking is crucial for success in the cybersecurity field. AI is changing the recruitment landscape, but personal connections remain vital. Candidates should not take rejection personally; competition is fierce. Community support in cybersecurity is invaluable for growth. New graduates should seek internships and hands-on experience. Personal branding is essential in a crowded job market. The job market in the UAE is becoming increasingly competitive. Anya plans to expand her cybersecurity services into Saudi Arabia.

15. 

    24 Mar 2025

    Chris Prince - Senior Cyber Analyst | Cultivating Curiosity in Cyber

    In this conversation, I get to talk to Chris Prince and we explore his journey into cybersecurity, discussing the transition from computer science, the importance of curiosity and passion in the field, and the challenges faced by cybersecurity professionals. We delve into the significance of communication skills, the role of certifications, and the perception of cybersecurity within organizations. Chris shares insights from his experience as a SOC analyst and reflects on the influence of gaming on his career. The discussion emphasizes the need for continuous learning and the importance of personal branding in the cybersecurity industry. Enjoy! Shoot us a DM! Nik Mohanlal (LinkedIn) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikmohanlal/) Chris Prince (LinkedIn) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrislvprince/) Takeaways Curiosity drives success in cybersecurity. Transitioning from computer science to cybersecurity is common. Cybersecurity is often viewed as a money drain by businesses. Certifications validate knowledge but are not the only factor for success. Communication skills are crucial in cybersecurity roles. Job applications require a proactive approach. Gaming can enhance teamwork and problem-solving skills. Continuous learning is essential in a rapidly changing field. Personal branding on platforms like LinkedIn is important. The perception of cybersecurity roles needs to improve within organizations. Chapters 00:42 The Journey into Cybersecurity: From Gaming to Protection 00:51 The Importance of Passion in Cybersecurity 00:51 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Cybersecurity 01:41 Communication: The Key to Success in Cybersecurity 04:32 The Role of Experience in Cybersecurity Careers 07:38 The Communication Gap in IT 08:29 Understanding the Negatives of Cybersecurity Roles 11:12 Changing Perceptions of Cybersecurity 13:56 The Role of Certifications in Cybersecurity Careers 15:29 Navigating the Job Market in UAE 20:15 Leveraging LinkedIn for Career Growth 27:07 Curiosity as a Driving Force in Cybersecurity 30:22 The Importance of Curiosity and Intrinsic Motivation 32:19 Navigating Career Paths in Cybersecurity 33:46 The Role of Personal Experiences in Professional Growth 35:41 Transitioning Roles in Cybersecurity 37:04 Gaming and Its Impact on Personal Development 43:13 The Interconnection of Skills Across Disciplines 44:17 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

16. 

    12 Mar 2025

    Jumaa AlHameli - SOC Analyst | Hacking PC games to SOC Analyst

    In this episode of CyBytes, I interviews Jumaa Alhameli, a SOC analyst, discussing his journey from gaming to cybersecurity, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced in the field. We explore various learning approaches, the significance of finding one's path in cybersecurity, and the opportunities available in the UAE's growing cybersecurity landscape. The conversation also touches on overcoming self-doubt and the need for effective communication in the industry. Enjoy! Reach out to us on LinkedIn! Nik Mohanlal (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikmohanlal/) Jumaa AlHameli  (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumaa-alhameli-45481b1b6/) Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Cybersecurity Enthusiasm 00:58 - Learning Techniques and Approaches in Cybersecurity 04:35 - Finding Your Path: Red Team vs Blue Team 08:40 - The Role of a SOC Analyst: Responsibilities and Challenges 13:47 - The Importance of Mentorship in Cybersecurity 16:06 - Encouraging New Graduates in the Cybersecurity Field 18:28 - Bridging the Gap in Cybersecurity Education 23:24 - Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence 30:01 - Navigating Career Opportunities in Cybersecurity 36:22 - Innovative Projects in Cybersecurity Training Takeaways Cybersecurity offers insights from both beginners and seasoned professionals. Building a home lab is crucial for practical learning. Understanding the fundamentals of cybersecurity is essential for growth. Finding your niche in cybersecurity can be achieved through exploration. Mentorship plays a vital role in professional development. UAE is a rapidly growing hub for cybersecurity opportunities. Self-doubt can be managed by viewing challenges as learning experiences. Effective communication is key in relaying technical information to non-technical stakeholders. Passion and monetary goals can coexist in driving career choices. Engaging in both offensive and defensive security is important for a well-rounded skill set.

17. 

    22 Feb 2025

    CyBytes - Podcast Trailer

    CyBytes is a podcast that brings short, bite-sized conversations with individuals who work in cybersecurity across the UAE and the World - beginner or seasoned. Who can provide valuable insight and advice, sharing stories and tips for those looking to get a head start in cyber security and tech. In 15 min episodes you’ll get a chance to learn about what they do, how they got started, methods they use to stay on top of their skills and what keeps them going. As well as providing some actionable insight for those who want to do the same! Contact: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikmohanlal/)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 18 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

35

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.