In today's episode of the Bare Metal Cyber podcast, we dive deep into an often-overlooked crisis in cybersecurity: analyst burnout in the Security Operations Center. We'll examine why SOC analysts are increasingly overwhelmed by endless alerts, high-stakes decision-making, and relentless workloads—and why relying solely on automation as a cure can sometimes lead to unintended consequences.

Then, we'll explore practical strategies for finding the right balance between automated tools and human analysts, emphasizing the critical role of workplace culture, professional development, and mental wellness. Join us as we discuss how organizations can build truly resilient SOCs that combine technology and human insight effectively.

In today’s episode, we dive deep into the hidden realm of Shadow IT—those unsanctioned technologies quietly spreading through nearly every modern organization. While they often begin with harmless intentions, these hidden apps and devices can quickly escalate into serious cybersecurity risks, complicate compliance, and introduce vulnerabilities that organizations struggle to see coming.

We’ll discuss why employees turn to Shadow IT, reveal practical techniques for uncovering and managing hidden technology, and explore emerging trends that are reshaping the way organizations deal with these invisible threats. From AI-driven shadow applications to personal IoT devices quietly connecting to company networks, we shed light on the crucial strategies every organization needs to stay secure.

Third-party cybersecurity breaches are rapidly becoming one of the most serious threats facing organizations today. Attackers exploit vendor vulnerabilities, bypassing traditional defenses and compromising critical systems, often undetected. In this episode, we explore practical approaches for uncovering hidden vendor risks, utilizing AI-driven insights and advanced threat detection to proactively manage and mitigate supply chain cyber threats.

We also challenge common myths in vendor risk management, highlighting why traditional methods are falling short. You'll discover innovative and provocative strategies for strengthening third-party cybersecurity—from groundbreaking legal frameworks to cutting-edge automation tools. Join us as we provide realistic, actionable insights designed to keep your vendor ecosystems secure, resilient, and ahead of emerging cyber threats.