Ever wondered what really goes on inside a Security Operations Center (SOC)? In this episode, host, Claire Quirion chats with Derek Halfyard from GoSecure about his journey from NSCC to leading threat hunts and helping clients stay safe around the clock. We break down what a SOC is, who works there, what roles like threat hunters and detection engineers actually do, and what it’s really like to build a career in cybersecurity.

Derek also opens up about the biggest challenges SOC professionals face, the stress of wondering if a threat has been missed, and the unmatched satisfaction of detecting a previously unknown threat. Whether you're curious about breaking into cyber security or want to understand the realities of life inside a SOC, this episode offers deep insights and career advice. From certifications to career pivots, this is real talk for anyone curious about joining the industry.

In this episode of All Hands on Tech, host Claire Quirion welcomes Jeff MacArthur, CEO of Konnekt Digital Engagement and a longtime leader in Atlantic Canada’s tech industry.

With over a decade of involvement in the Digital Nova Scotia tech community, including service on the Board of Directors, Jeff shares his insights on the evolving local tech scene, the early days of social media, the rise of AI, and hybrid networking.

The conversation dives into the story behind Third Wednesdays, Nova Scotia’s most well-attended monthly tech meetup. It explores how Jeff has created a welcoming space that connects seasoned professionals, students, and newcomers. Claire and Jeff also revisit his work on one of the internet’s first video podcasts, commandN, and his recent return to co-hosting alongside his sister Amber Mac on The AmberMac Show.

Produced by Unbound Media

In this exciting episode of All Hands on Tech, host Claire Quirion is joined by Mike Reeves, President and Owner of Mobia Technology Innovations. From cybersecurity to cloud architecture, Mobia's work bridges technical expertise with real-world impact, and all with an east coast edge.

Mike discusses Mobia's 40 years of evolution, their "people first" approach, and how they've developed and maintained such a diverse ecosystem of services. They chat about the value of change management both for clients and their internal teams through consistent integration of feedback, learning, and training with strategy.

Produced by: Unbound Media
Sponsored by: Beyond Digital Recognition

In this exciting episode of All Hands on Tech, host Claire Quirion sits down with Ryan Sno-Wood from the Interactive Society of Nova Scotia (ISNS) to talk about the fast-growing world of game development in the province. From small indie teams to major collaborations with government and schools, the local gaming industry is expanding fast, and Ryan has a front-row seat.

Ryan shares how ISNS is helping build a stronger, more connected community for game developers in Nova Scotia, and why the region is starting to catch the attention of international markets. Claire and Ryan also chat about the future of games, the impact of AI, and what it really takes to get started in the industry.

In this episode of All Hands on Tech, our host Claire Quirion sits down with Daphne North, Director of Product Marketing and Content at Dash Social, to explore the bold rebrand of Dash Hudson, and what it means for the future of creator marketing.

Daphne shares her journey into the world of content and product marketing, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Dash Social’s evolution and its mission to revolutionize how brands connect with creators. From the launch of their all-new Creator Management platform to the insights found in their latest industry report, Daphne explains how Dash Social is helping brands grow with content that resonates authentically, and at scale.

Together, Claire and Daphne dive into how creator and influencer marketing has transformed in recent years, what brands need to know to stay ahead of algorithm changes, and the rising role of AI in content strategy. With practical advice for marketers just starting out and a glimpse into the exciting innovations on the horizon, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up their brand storytelling and social media game.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang-Smith speaks with Ashley MacInnis, founder of AMPR, a communications and PR consulting firm built on the power of strategic storytelling. Ashley shares her journey from being laid off while pregnant to launching her own business, and how that leap of faith became the foundation for a career centred on helping others show up authentically across platforms.

Ashley opens up about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, offering a candid look at what it means to grow a business while raising a young family. From working at the rink during hockey games to taking client calls during nap time, her story is a relatable and powerful example of balancing ambition with the realities of parenting.

Throughout the episode, she reflects on her values—authenticity, resilience, and community—and how they guide her approach to both life and work. Her passion for storytelling is clear, and she explains how helping clients connect with their audiences through meaningful narratives is what fuels her work at AMPR. She also shares new directions for her business, including a growing focus on digital ads and a forthcoming book designed to help small businesses take control of their own communications.

This conversation is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone navigating the winding path of career and family life. Ashley’s perspective is honest, encouraging, and a reminder that success doesn’t always follow a straight line. Tune in to hear why she believes the best stories—the ones worth telling—often start in the most unexpected ways.

Learn more about amPR Inc: https://ampr.co/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/

In this captivating episode of All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang sits down with Amy Harrison, founder of Pixels and Pieces, for an inspiring conversation that goes beyond traditional design and business storytelling.

With over 20 years of experience in print and digital design, Amy has transformed her neurodivergent challenges into her greatest strengths. From a childhood reading at advanced levels to a later-in-life ADHD diagnosis, Amy's journey is a testament to embracing one's unique way of thinking and working.

Listeners will step into Amy's world, where branding is more than colours and logos – it's about communication, psychology, and empowering entrepreneurs to tell their authentic stories. She shares insights into her work with government organizations and startups, along with her approach to design that goes beyond aesthetics.

But this episode is more than a business masterclass. It's a personal exploration of finding your path, understanding your strengths, and building a life and career that truly works for you. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a design enthusiast, or someone navigating neurodiversity, Amy's story offers inspiration, practical advice, and a refreshing perspective on success.

Bonus? She’s also a drummer in a samba band, proving that creativity knows no bounds.

Don't miss this powerful conversation that will challenge your perceptions and ignite your entrepreneurial spirit. Tune in to discover how one woman is redesigning the rules of business, one pixel at a time!

Learn more about Pixels & Pieces: https://pixelsandpieces.ca/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/

In this episode of All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang sits down with David Fraser, one of Canada’s leading privacy and technology lawyers, to explore the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, privacy laws, and artificial intelligence regulation. As a partner at McInnes Cooper and a long-standing board member of Digital Nova Scotia, David shares his expertise on the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in today’s digital world.

Throughout the conversation, David discusses how new technologies bring new legal questions, why privacy and security should be built into tech products from day one, and the importance of aligning Canadian regulations with global standards. He also dives into the rise of AI, its regulatory uncertainty, and the ongoing privacy investigation into OpenAI.

Cyber threats are another major focus, with David offering insights into how businesses can prepare for data breaches and ransomware attacks. He stresses that cyber incidents aren’t a matter of "if" but "when," and emphasizes the need for companies to have strong incident response plans in place.

Beyond privacy law, David also shares his passion for technology, social media, and digital education, including his YouTube channel, where he breaks down complex legal topics for a global audience. He reflects on his journey into tech law, his commitment to supporting Nova Scotia’s tech sector, and why local businesses should think globally when developing new products.

Whether you're a tech entrepreneur, business leader, or just curious about the future of digital privacy, this episode offers valuable insights on navigating the intersection of law, innovation, and cybersecurity.

Learn more about David Fraser: https://www.mcinnescooper.com/people/david-fraser/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/