About Man In The Middle Podcast | Cyber Security Stories
Welcome to The Man in the Middle Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating and ever-evolving realm of cybersecurity. Join us as we bring you insightful conversations with leading experts from around the globe, each specializing in various facets of this critical field. Our podcast goes beyond the headlines to explore the intricate stories and trends shaping the future of cybersecurity in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
Each episode features in-depth interviews with industry professionals who share their unique perspectives, experiences, and knowledge. Whether it's discussing cutting-edge technologies, analysing recent cyber threats, or exploring innovative solutions to protect our digital landscapes, we cover it all. From ethical hacking and cyber defence strategies to regulatory changes and the impact of AI and machine learning, our guests provide valuable insights into the direction the industry is heading.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve as we uncover the stories that matter most in cybersecurity. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a curious novice, or someone interested in understanding the digital world's security landscape, this podcast is your go-to source for all things cyber. Tune in to learn, engage, and be inspired by the pioneers driving change in this dynamic and crucial industry.
S03E01 - Why Your Business Is More Vulnerable Than You Think | Robert Maxwell
Robert Maxwell, CEO and founder of TGT Solutions, interviews with the host of Man in the Middle Podcast about why businesses are more vulnerable than they realize and how to view cybersecurity as an investment.
9 Apr 2025TRANSCRIPT
S02E05 - From IT to Strategy: Sash Vasilevski on Reframing Cybersecurity as a Business Enabler
👉 Welcome to the latest episode of the Man in the Middle Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of cybersecurity and technology.
This episode, we interview Sash Vasilevski, Founder and Principal of Security Centric.
With over 20 years of experience in technology and cybersecurity, Sash has built a reputation for helping organisations align their cybersecurity strategies with business objectives. As the founder of Security Centric, Sash’s work ensures that cybersecurity is seen not as a hindrance, but as an enabler for growth and success.
In this episode, we discuss Sash’s journey into cybersecurity, the rise of the CISO-as-a-Service model, and why it’s crucial to separate security from IT functions. Sash also shares insights into the cultural shifts organisations must make to see cybersecurity as a business enabler, as well as the lessons learned from recent cybersecurity incidents.
💡 Whether you’re a business leader, cybersecurity professional, or simply passionate about the evolving cyber landscape, this episode is full of invaluable insights for anyone looking to integrate security into their business strategy.
You can listen to the podcast on your favourite platforms:
Apple/iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/man-in-the-middle-podcast-|-cyber-security-stories/id1750840854
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1pXC0KyH0LmhSkchSudzwG?si=e4d678c0b05c4443
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c99d3a90-0ae2-403f-88c1-695b7a5a952f/man-in-the-middle-podcast-cyber-security-stories
YouTube: https://youtu.be/2qMnPPQeaj4
You can learn more about Sash and Security Centric by following the links below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sashv/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sashv/)
https://www.securitycentric.com.au/ (https://www.securitycentric.com.au/)
28 Feb 2025TRANSCRIPT
S02E04 - Inside the Mind of a Top Bug Hunter: Shahmeer Amir on Security & Innovation
👉 Welcome to the latest episode of the Man in the Middle Podcast, where we uncover stories from the world of cybersecurity.
This episode, we interview Shahmeer Amir, Founder and CEO of SpeeQR and Ethical Hacker.
Shahmeer Amir is a globally recognized entrepreneur, ethical hacker, and public speaker. Named Entrepreneur of the Year 2024, he ranks among the world’s top three bug bounty hunters and has helped secure Fortune 400 companies, including Facebook, Microsoft, and Twitter. As the founder of multiple cybersecurity startups—SpeeQR, Veiliux, Authiun, and Dark—Shahmeer is at the forefront of next-gen security solutions. He also serves as a Cybersecurity Advisor to Pakistan’s Ministry of Finance and is a member of the Forbes Technology Council.
In this episode, we discuss Shahmeer’s journey into bug bounty hunting, how the field is evolving, and the essential skills for breaking into cybersecurity today. We also dive into his latest research on transportation security, the growing threats in wireless technology, and how startups approach security differently than large corporations.
🔍 Whether you're an aspiring hacker, a tech entrepreneur, or just fascinated by the future of cybersecurity, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
You can learn more about Shahmeer by following the links below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-shahmeer-amir-743a5bb7/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-shahmeer-amir-743a5bb7/)
https://shahmeeramir.com/ (https://shahmeeramir.com/)
19 Feb 2025
S02E03 - Inside the Dark World of Doxing: Cybercrime Meets Real-World Threats w/Jacob Larsen
👉 Welcome to the latest episode of the Man in the Middle Podcast, diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
This episode, we interview Jacob Larsen, Threat Researcher and Offensive Security Lead at CyberCX. With six years of hands-on experience in cybersecurity, Jacob specializes in penetration testing, adversary tradecraft, and underground cybercriminal markets. His research into doxing, cyber extortion, and the rise of "violence-as-a-service" has been featured at Black Hat USA 2024 and in major publications like WIRED and The Register.
In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of doxing, how cybercriminals exploit underground markets, and the terrifying rise of real-world threats stemming from online attacks. We break down the tactics used by doxing gangs like ViLe, discuss how fraudulent law enforcement requests are being used to access sensitive information, and examine the legal and policy gaps that allow these threats to persist.
Join us for a gripping conversation that uncovers the hidden dangers of doxing, the fight to protect victims, and what individuals and organizations can do to stay safe in an increasingly hostile digital world.
You can learn more about Jacob and CyberCX by following the links below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsencyber (https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsencyber)
https://cybercx.com.au/ (https://cybercx.com.au/)
14 Feb 2025TRANSCRIPT
S02E02 - Cyber War & Disinformation: The New Frontlines of National Security w/Meg Tapia
👉 Welcome to the latest episode of the Man in the Middle Podcast, diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
This episode, we interview Meg Tapia, Managing Director of Novexus, a national security expert with over 20 years of experience in intelligence, diplomacy, and tackling disinformation. Meg has served as a diplomat, earned national and international medals including from NATO, and is a leader in addressing Australia’s evolving security challenges.
In this episode, we explore the rise of disinformation and its impact on national security, the role of technology in both spreading and combating misinformation, and how Australia can build resilience against cyber threats. We also discuss cyber warfare as the 'Fifth Domain,' its unique challenges, and lessons from Meg’s diplomatic career that inform today’s security landscape.
Tune in for an insightful discussion on defending truth in the digital age and safeguarding democracy from the threats of disinformation.
Meg also gave a book recommendation called Foolproof which you can find through this link: https://www.amazon.com.au/Foolproof-Misinformation-Infects-Minds-Immunity/dp/039388144X
You can learn more about Meg and Novexus by following the links below:
https://novexus.com.au/ (https://novexus.com.au/)
https://www.linkedin.com/in/megtapia/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/megtapia/)
12 Feb 2025
S02E01 - Strategic Security: How to get the Most Value from Your Cyber Investment w/Nikki Peever
👉 Welcome to Season 2 of the podcast Man in the Middle Podcast, diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
In our first episode of the year we interview Nikki Peever, Director of Cybersecurity at The Council of Australasian University of Information Technology (CAUDIT).
Nikki ensures that institutions receive the support, resources, and guidance needed to stay secure and resilient in a dynamic digital landscape. With a passion for cybersecurity, leadership, client engagement, and effective communication, she brings a wealth of knowledge on how to navigate the evolving security challenges in higher education.
In this episode, we discuss how to manage cybersecurity spending without compromising security, evaluating investments to maximize protection, the balance between investing in people vs. technology, and the future of cybersecurity in higher education.
Tune in for expert insights on making strategic security decisions that deliver real value, all while staying ahead of emerging threats.
You can learn more about Nikki and CAUDIT by following the links below:
https://www.caudit.edu.au/ (https://www.caudit.edu.au/)
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkipeever/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkipeever/)
11 Dec 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E13 - Cyber Herd Immunity: Collective Defence in the Digital Age w/Yuval Hertzog & Michael Loewy
Cybersecurity experts Yuval Hertzog & Michael Loewy share insights on collective defence and ineffable cryptography, revealing how innovative technologies are reshaping the cybersecurity landscape.
4 Dec 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E12 - Cyber Skills for All w/ Caitriona Forde
Caitriona Forde, a seasoned cybersecurity expert, shares her human-centric approach to creating engaging and effective training programs that cultivate a safe and secure cyber environment through education and awareness.
Loris Minassian, Founder and CEO of CyberStash, shares insights on leveraging threat intelligence with Eclipse.XDR Cyber Defence Platform, empowering effective threat defence strategies.
21 Nov 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E10 - From Vulnerable to Vigilant: Building a Cyber Champion in Non-profits w/Adrian Bole, Rodney Anderson and Denny Wan
Adrian Bole, Rodney Anderson, and Denny Wan share actionable insights on empowering non-profits to tackle unique cybersecurity challenges and build a culture of champions within their organizations.
21 Nov 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E09 - The Future of Cybersecurity: What’s Next? w/ Ian Yip
Ian Yip, Founder and CEO of Avertro, shares insights on the evolving cybersecurity landscape, leadership's role in building resilient strategies, and the limitations and possibilities of today's tools.
11 Nov 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E08 - Cybersecurity Meets Storytelling: Insights from a Cyber Unicorn w/Craig Ford
👉 Welcome to another episode of the Man in the Middle Podcast, diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Craig Ford, founder of Cyber Unicorns, a cybersecurity consultancy that’s making high-quality cyber protection accessible to small and medium-sized businesses.
In this episode, Craig shares insights from his 20+ years experience, detailing his unique approach to using storytelling to demystify cybersecurity for all audiences. We also discuss his mission to elevate cyber awareness in education and how his books bring cybersecurity to life in a way that’s relatable and engaging.
Whether you’re a cybersecurity professional, an educator, or just curious about how stories can shape a safer digital world, Craig’s perspective offers a fresh and impactful take on building a more secure future.
Apple/iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/man-in-the-middle-podcast-|-cyber-security-stories/id1750840854
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1pXC0KyH0LmhSkchSudzwG?si=e4d678c0b05c4443
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c99d3a90-0ae2-403f-88c1-695b7a5a952f/man-in-the-middle-podcast-cyber-security-stories
YouTube: https://youtu.be/ba2eY6tPJ3s
You can find out more about Craig and Cyber Unicorns by following the links below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-ford-cybersecurity/?originalSubdomain=au
https://craigfordauthor.com/ahackeriam/?srsltid=AfmBOormqrgjMMDwykhcTJjN6GXS5-NV5z9n1pFNG4LjRJyN9L0xbQzs
https://cyberunicorns.com.au/ (https://cyberunicorns.com.au/)
5 Nov 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E07 - Cyber Incidents and the Law w/Annie Haggar
👉 Welcome to another episode of the 'Man in the Middle Podcast,' diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
In this episode, we’re joined by Annie Haggar, a partner of Norton Rose Fulbright who sheds light on the complexities of cyber incident reporting and the crucial role of legal privilege in protecting businesses.
Annie and I discuss the 2024 Cyber Security Bill, as well as the legal responsibilities when it comes to incident management and response.
Whether you’re a cybersecurity professional, a business leader, or simply interested in the legal side of cybersecurity, this episode provides practical insights and strategies to help you prepare for and respond to cyber incidents effectively.
You can find out more about Annie and Norton Rose Fulbright by following the links below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-haggar/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-haggar/)
https://www.nortonrosefulbright.com/en-au (https://www.nortonrosefulbright.com/en-au)
11 Oct 2024
S01E06 - Bridging Cyber Futures w/Peter Owen
👉 Welcome to another episode of the 'Man in the Middle Podcast,' diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
This episode, we sit down with Peter Owens, IT and Cyber Security Lecturer at South Metro Tafe.
In this episode, Peter shares his unique role in bridging the gap between the classroom and the cybersecurity industry. He discusses the vital work of creating a pipeline of students poised to become the next generation of cyber professionals. We also delve into the growing influence of AI and the evolving landscape of cyber attacks, where machine learning is both a tool and a threat.
Whether you're interested in education, cybersecurity, or the future impact of AI, Peter's insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the challenges and opportunities shaping tomorrow's cyber workforce.
You can listen to our podcast on your favourite platforms:
Apple/iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/man-in-the-middle-podcast-|-cyber-security-stories/id1750840854
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1pXC0KyH0LmhSkchSudzwG?si=e4d678c0b05c4443
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c99d3a90-0ae2-403f-88c1-695b7a5a952f/man-in-the-middle-podcast-cyber-security-stories
YouTube: https://youtu.be/-7Ki4W0n_0k
You can find out more about Peter and the available courses at TAFE by following the link or getting in touch with Peter:
https://www.southmetrotafe.wa.edu.au/courses/information-technology-library-and-digital
20 Sept 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E05 - Inside the Vault w/Graeme Speake
👉Welcome to another episode of the 'Man in the Middle Podcast,' diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
This episode, we sit down with Graeme Speak, CEO and Founder of BankVault Cyber Security.
In this episode, Graeme shares his fascinating journey from his early entrepreneurial ventures to becoming a leader in cybersecurity innovation. He discusses the challenges users face with account registration processes and how BankVault's breakthrough technology eliminates these frustrations by reducing customer drop-off rates.
We also explore Graeme's philosophy on pivots in business, where he’s identified significant opportunities to expand his market tenfold or more, as well as the process of Capital Raising for tech innovators. His unique insights into blending creativity with technology make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in cybersecurity or scaling a tech business.
You can find out more about Graeme and BankVault Cyber Security by following the links below:
https://www.bankvault.com/ (https://www.bankvault.com/)
https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemespeak/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemespeak/)
6 Sept 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E04 - Shimazaki w/Tom Jreige
👉Welcome to the another episode of the 'Man in the Middle Podcast', diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
This Episode we interview Thomas Jreige from Shimazaki Risk Advisory
In this episode we delve into the world of risk management within cybersecurity. Thomas shares his unique approach to risk assessment, which goes beyond mere compliance, offering a more holistic view that considers the real threats to businesses. From his early fascination with challenging authority to his career in government and critical infrastructure, Thomas brings a wealth of experience and insight.
We discuss the importance of understanding the true risks in various industries, the dangers of relying solely on compliance, and the four key questions every business should ask when assessing risk. Whether you’re in cybersecurity, risk management, or just curious about how to protect your business, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
You can listen to our podcast on your favourite platforms:
Apple/iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/man-in-the-middle-podcast-|-cyber-security-stories/id1750840854
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1pXC0KyH0LmhSkchSudzwG?si=e4d678c0b05c4443
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c99d3a90-0ae2-403f-88c1-695b7a5a952f/man-in-the-middle-podcast-cyber-security-stories
YouTube: https://youtu.be/2uqDf61Z_cE
You can find out more about Thomas and Shimzaki Risk Advisory by following the links below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasjreige/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasjreige/)
7 Aug 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E03 - Questioning Security: Assuredly's Guide to Simplified Assurance w/Fiona Long
👉Welcome to the another episode of the 'Man in the Middle Podcast', diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
This Episode we interview Fiona Long from Assuredly.
Fiona Long is a seasoned business professional, tech founder, and cyber security leader with over 20 years of experience. As an innovator and builder of cyber security solutions, she thrives on helping businesses build high-performing teams and processes, providing the right advice to ensure they develop or acquire companies resilient to security threats.
Fiona is the founder of Assuredly, a platform designed to be accessible to everyone. Assuredly offers a seamless, guided assessment process, help guides for implementing controls, guidance on auditor requirements, and simple navigation with tangible results.
In this episode we talk about Assuredly's approach for Cyber Safety, dissecting the efficacy of security questionnaires and much more.
You can find out more about Fiona and Assuredly by following the links below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionalong (https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionalong)
https://www.assuredly.co/ (https://www.assuredly.co/)
21 Jun 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E02 - A Cynch Conversation w/Susie Jones
👉Welcome to the another episode of the 'Man in the Middle Podcast', diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
This Episode we interview Susie Jones from Cynch Security.
Susie is a seasoned leader and risk manager with extensive experience in insurance, having worked at Marsh and Willis Towers Watson. At Australia Post, she broadened her expertise to encompass general, cyber risk, and commercial management. As the Head of Cyber Security Business Services, Susie excelled in bridging the gap between technical Information Security Office personnel and senior business stakeholders.
Co-founding Cynch Security in 2017, Susie is the CEO, leading a team that is passionate about helping small businesses become Cyber Fit.
In this episode we talk about Cynch's model for Cyber Safety, Supply Chain assurance and much more.
You can listen to our podcast on your favourite platforms:
Apple/iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/man-in-the-middle-podcast-|-cyber-security-stories/id1750840854
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1pXC0KyH0LmhSkchSudzwG?si=e4d678c0b05c4443
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c99d3a90-0ae2-403f-88c1-695b7a5a952f/man-in-the-middle-podcast-cyber-security-stories
YouTube: https://youtu.be/3KrDGHQjwnU (https://youtu.be/3KrDGHQjwnU)
You can find out more about Susie and Cynch by following the links below:
https://cynch.com.au/ (https://cynch.com.au/)
https://au.linkedin.com/in/susiecynchsecurity (https://au.linkedin.com/in/susiecynchsecurity)
7 Jun 2024TRANSCRIPT
S01E01 - 7 Rules Cyber w/Chirag Joshi
👉Welcome to the first episode of our new podcast series titled 'Man in the Middle Podcast', diving into stories from the world of Cyber Security.
This Episode we interview Chirag Joshi from 7 Rules Cyber.
Chirag Joshi is an award-winng CISO with experience working in several different sectors all across the globe.
He is the founder and CEO of 7 rules Cyber and in this episode we dive into what those rules are. An author and a speaker, Chirag's focus is framing the question on Cyber Security on you by enabling business and not hindering it.
In this episode we discuss the importance of communication in Cyber Security whether it be within industry or across other sectors, as well as Chirag's unique framework that he outlines in his published work.
You can find out more about Chirag by following the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiragdjoshi (https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiragdjoshi)
https://7rulescyber.au/ (https://7rulescyber.au/)
https://www.youtube.com/@chiragdjoshi7607 (https://www.youtube.com/@chiragdjoshi7607)
Inside a recent episode
S03E01 - Why Your Business Is More Vulnerable Than You Think | Robert Maxwell
Published 28 Aug 2026 · Transcript excerpt
[…] I cannot tell you how many times we have seen the letter O supposedly appearing in a URL that you frequent. And it has been replaced with a zero. And I can tell you that when, oh, I know this one, you just go click. And after the fact, you point out, hmm, that's not your URL. That's not the one you thought you were going after. We see that all the time. It's very easy to fool people. People work at speed in an organization these days. They don't have time to carefully review every URL with which they work. They don't have time to inspect that everyone with whom they think they're corresponding is indeed the person with whom they're corresponding. […]
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
