In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Jennifer Quaid, Executive Director of the Canadian Cyber Threat Exchange (CCTX).

Jennifer shares her unconventional path into cybersecurity, from political science and communications to leading one of Canada’s most important cyber threat collaboration organizations. She reflects on surviving major cyber attacks in small businesses, the realities of burnout in cyber, and why nobody truly joins this field for comfort.

The conversation explores how CCTX enables over 200 member organizations across 16 sectors to collaborate on threats, share intelligence, and strengthen resilience together. Jennifer explains why cybersecurity is not simply an IT issue, but a business-wide risk that belongs within an organization’s risk function.

They also discuss the current state of the cybersecurity market, the challenges facing new entrants, the importance of certifications early in a career, and why soft skills and clear communication are critical for long-term success.

The episode closes with a powerful reminder: threat actors collaborate constantly. Defenders must do the same.

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In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with Alexandre Blanc, a cybersecurity and privacy leader with more than 25 years of experience across IT, security, and incident response.

Alexandre shares his unconventional path into cybersecurity, beginning in infrastructure, networks, and encryption work, and explains how regulation, governance, and real-world events shaped his focus on privacy and risk. He reflects on intense incident response work, burnout, and the realities of operating behind the scenes during high-profile security events.

The conversation explores governance, risk, and compliance in Canada, including the impact of privacy laws like Quebec’s Law 25, third-party risk, and the growing complexity introduced by AI, SaaS platforms, and external data processing. Alexandre offers a grounded perspective on AI in GRC, emphasizing due diligence, transparency, and understanding how data is actually used.

They also discuss cyber insurance, accountability, and the limitations of transferring risk, as well as Alexandre’s vision for the future, where individuals regain control over their digital identities and personal data.

This episode is especially relevant for cybersecurity leaders, risk and privacy professionals, policy makers, and anyone thinking critically about data ownership, governance, and long-term resilience.

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In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with Farzia Khan, Senior Manager of Information Security at TD Bank, where she leads enterprise-wide cyber resiliency initiatives.

Farzia shares her journey into cybersecurity, from self-teaching technology skills and pursuing computer science, to building cyber literacy, awareness programs, and upskilling initiatives within a large financial institution. She reflects on the impact of mentors, sponsors, and educators, and how early exposure and community support helped shape her career.

The conversation dives into the role of community and industry engagement, including Farzia’s founding of ElleHacks, Canada’s first and largest all-women hackathon. She discusses why creating inclusive spaces and hands-on opportunities can change lives and open doors for emerging talent.

They also explore current challenges in the cybersecurity landscape, including the talent gap, the rise of AI-driven threats, and the imbalance between attackers and defenders. Farzia offers practical advice for early-career professionals, emphasizing building real expertise, engaging with the community, and using hands-on learning opportunities over chasing certifications alone.

This episode is especially relevant for students, early-career professionals, leaders, and anyone interested in cyber resilience, workforce development, and building stronger security communities.

Listen now and join the conversation.