Most small and mid-sized businesses are flying blind in cybersecurity — and cybercriminals know it. In this eye-opening episode of Firewall Fridays, Dom Vogel reveals the shocking risks lurking in overlooked vulnerabilities, and how a simple mindset shift can save your organization millions.

You’ll discover why ignoring cyber threats is like driving without insurance, and how some companies are unknowingly risking contracts worth millions by neglecting basic security measures. Dom breaks down the three major blind spots hampering SMBs: surviving a breach, weak cyber insurance practices, and supply chain vulnerabilities. He shares real-world stories — from the construction firm with outdated backups to the law firm with a server not even plugged in — that expose just how easy it is to fall into costly cyber traps.

You’ll learn exactly how to prioritize cybersecurity in a way that directly impacts your bottom line. We dive into practical tactics like leveraging cloud platforms for automatic security, understanding the true cost of outdated hardware and software, and asking the right questions about your vendor and security posture. The stakes are high, but the opportunity to protect your business, reputation, and revenue has never been clearer.

If you're a small business owner or executive feeling overwhelmed by cybersecurity myths and hidden dangers, this episode is your wake-up call. Dom’s straightforward advice will help you cut through the noise and make smarter, less risky decisions today. Because in cybersecurity, ignorance is costly — but awareness can be your greatest asset.

Join us and turn cybersecurity from a nerve-wracking expense into a strategic advantage. Perfect for anyone who wants to stop flying blind and start safeguarding their future.

Host:

Kevin Evans

Unlock the hidden secrets behind building successful tech startups in Alberta. Discover how a seasoned CTO and a passionate founder are transforming the way founders bring their ideas to life — faster, smarter, and more cost-effectively. If you're a founder, innovator, or tech enthusiast feeling overwhelmed by complexity or unsure where to start, this episode will change how you approach your next big idea.

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When founders rush into app development without understanding costs, security, or real needs, they risk costly failures and missed opportunities. Rhea and Al reveal how a new approach—powered by AI-driven tools, tailored advisory, and industry-specific insights—can save thousands of dollars and years of frustration. They share concrete stories of projects rescued from the brink, beginner developers launched into careers, and how Alberta’s thriving ecosystem can support your success.

You’ll discover:

• The truth about how AI is revolutionizing project estimates and requirement gathering, slashing development costs by up to 75%.
• Why security and compliance should be baked in from day one, not added as an afterthought—and how to do it without breaking the bank.
• The importance of validating your idea with real customer interest before building, and the best ways to test demand without wasting resources.
• Practical tools like a cost calculator that’s already saving startups thousands, plus strategies to create a proprietary business advantage using custom software.
• Success stories of founders who bypassed the pitfalls common in the startup scene—saving money, speeding time to market, and gaining real competitive edge.

In this episode, Kevin is joined by Rea Hailley, co-founder of New Idea Machine, and Al Del Degan, CTO with decades of experience in coding, AI, and startup support. They leverage Alberta’s unique innovation landscape and global tech advances to empower founders with essential knowledge and tools. Whether you're early stage or scaling up, this is your playbook for turning ideas into impactful, scalable businesses.

In this episode, Kevin Evans and Chris Ayers explore how modern engineering teams are building and operating AI platforms using automation, agent-based orchestration, and developer tooling.

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They discuss practical approaches to managing Azure AI SDKs, automating documentation and infrastructure design, and integrating tools like GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT, and Claude into real development workflows. The conversation dives into agent frameworks, orchestration loops, responsible AI considerations, and how DevOps and platform teams can safely scale AI-driven automation.

This episode is ideal for architects, platform engineers, DevOps professionals, and developers looking to improve productivity and adopt AI-first workflows without losing control, security, or reliability.

Repos:

https://github.com/kevinevans1/genai_wiki

https://github.com/codetocloudorg/azure-agentic-engineering

🚀 Dive into the world of startups with Kevin Evans and Craig Tataryn as they unravel the mysteries of stock options! Discover the secrets behind successful tech ventures and learn how developers navigate the complex landscape of startup opportunities. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned developer, this episode is packed with insights that could transform your career! 💡

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Keywords: #stocks #options, #startups, #tech industry, #developers, #remotework

Takeaways: Unlock the secrets of stock options and make informed decisions. Discover how developers drive startup success. Learn the art of balancing risk and reward in the tech industry. Master the challenges of remote work and boost your productivity. Embrace continuous learning and stay ahead in the tech game.

Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction and Remote Work Experiences

00:12:00 The Role of Developers in Startups

00:24:00 Financial Implications and Challenges

00:36:00 Stock Options Explained

00:48:00 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

🔥 Don't miss out on these game-changing insights! Like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that empower your tech journey! 🔥

In this episode of Code to Cloud, Kevin Evans and Tim Warner explore the evolving landscape of IT certifications in 2026. They discuss why foundational skills still matter, the growing importance of GitHub and cloud-native certifications, and how AI is reshaping modern IT careers.

The conversation covers the value of certifications such as AZ-104 and AB-900, how to approach certifications strategically, and why hands-on experience remains essential for long-term success in tech. This episode is packed with practical advice for navigating a rapidly changing cloud and DevOps job market.

👉 https://linktr.ee/codetocloud

Join the conversation in the Code to Cloud LinkedIn Group to share your thoughts and experiences on IT certifications, cloud careers, and DevOps.

• Foundational certifications help close critical knowledge gaps

• GitHub certifications provide real insight into modern DevOps platforms

• AZ-104 is challenging but highly rewarding

• AI certifications are becoming increasingly important

• Hands-on practice is essential for certification success

• Vendor-neutral certifications can expand career options

• Networking skills remain vital in IT careers

• Certifications offer a competitive edge in the job market

• Continuous learning is essential to stay relevant

• Trust your instincts when choosing certification and career paths

In this episode, the hosts discuss the skills developers need to thrive in 2026, from cloud-native fundamentals and Linux to AI, certifications, and modern developer tools.

Hosts: Kevin Evans, Chris Ayers & Guil Lima

• Cloud-native development trends

• The role of AI in modern workflows

• Why Linux and open-source fundamentals remain essential

• How Aspire is helping developers build cloud-native apps faster

• Career growth strategies, networking, and certifications

• Embracing challenges and owning your professional journey

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your tech career, this episode provides practical advice, actionable tips, and inspiration to help you grow and stay relevant.

• Stay updated with technology trends

• Use AI as a tool, not a crutch

• Hands-on experience is critical

• Linux and open-source skills matter

• Certifications can structure your learning path

• Networking and community engagement open doors

• Aspire is a powerful tool for modern development

• Set goals and embrace failure as a learning opportunity

• Cloud Native Skills Blog (Code to Cloud):

  https://www.codetocloud.io/post/cloud-native-skills-in-2026-the-open-source-playbook-everyone-should-be-using

• Code to Cloud:

  https://www.codetocloud.io/

• Join the Community:

  https://linktr.ee/codetocloud

• Learn about .NET Aspire:

  https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/shows/visual-studio-live-2024/demystify-cloudnative-development-with-dotnet-aspire

In this special Code to Cloud episode, hosts Kevin Evans and Maxime Roy take a deep dive into the history of Unix and its lasting impact on modern computing. From its beginnings at Bell Labs in the 1960s to its influence on today’s cloud platforms, DevOps workflows, and mobile operating systems, Unix has played a foundational role in shaping the technology we rely on today.

The discussion explores the pioneering work of Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie, the evolution of Unix through its many variants, and the core design principles—simplicity, portability, and modularity—that inspired operating systems such as Linux and macOS. The hosts also reflect on Unix’s cultural significance, including its role in the open-source movement and its continued relevance in cloud-native and distributed environments.

Whether you’re a developer, cloud engineer, DevOps professional, or technology enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insight into why Unix still matters—and why its legacy continues to guide the future of computing.

Community

Code To Cloud Community

🕒 Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to Unix

00:10:00 The Pioneers: Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie

00:25:00 Unix Variants: From Multics to Linux

00:40:00 Unix’s Influence on Modern Operating Systems

00:55:00 Cultural Impact and Open Source Movement

01:10:00 Unix in Cloud Computing and Mobile Devices

01:25:00 The Future of Unix and Its Legacy

01:40:00 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

In this festive edition of "The Merge," join Kevin Evans, Chris Ayers, and Guil Lima as they dive into holiday cheer, tech adventures, and nostalgic tales. From exploring Christmas markets in Eastern Europe to sharing wild travel stories, the hosts bring a mix of humor and insight. Discover the latest in tech conferences, the evolution of Unix, and the magic of classic action films.

Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a movie buff, this episode is packed with engaging discussions and laughter. Tune in for a delightful end-of-year celebration!

Join our community: https://linktr.ee/codetocloud

Host's:

Kevin Evans

Guil Lima

Chris Ayers