MISAC Connect Audio

This episode of MISAC Connect Audio, hosted by Allen Hammond, provides a post-conference wrap-up and a weekly digest of MISAC Matter Highlights. It includes shout-outs to the conference committee, recognition of award recipients, and discussions on upcoming educational opportunities and hot topics from the MISAC Connect Forum.Chapters00:00 Opening Remarks01:39 Conference Highlights and Shout-Outs05:00 Awards and Recognitions10:48 Upcoming Educational Opportunities17:00 Hot Topics from MISAC Connect Forum19:30 MISAC Connect Forum Hot Topics:Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

BONUS PRE-CONFERENCE EPISODEIn this conversation, Alex and Allen discuss the evolution and importance of Unified Communication as a Service (UCaaS) in the public sector. They explore the drivers for transitioning to UCaaS, the challenges faced by agencies with legacy systems, and the critical role of user adoption and change management in successful implementation. The discussion also highlights the significance of security and compliance, the need for a phased approach to migration, and the benefits of engaging knowledgeable partners like Packet Fusion to navigate the complexities of UCaaS transitions.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Purpose05:49 Understanding UCaaS and Its Importance12:04 Drivers for Transitioning to UCaaS17:40 Challenges and Considerations in UCaaS Migration23:44 Evaluating Vendors and Making Informed Decisions29:35 Understanding User Workflows for Successful UCaaS Implementation30:57 Common Pitfalls in UCaaS Migration34:16 Change Management and User Adoption Strategies37:11 Data Security and Compliance in UCaaS40:29 Phased Approach to UCaaS Transition42:50 Benefits of Full UCaaS Transition49:19 Getting Started with UCaaS Transition51:02 Final Thoughts and Partnering for Success52:43 Overview of Packet Fusion's ServicesResources & Links:📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link📌 Connect with our guest:Packet Fusion - LinkedInAlex Stanich – LinkedInVisit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

In this episode, Sean Canevaro and Matt Eickmann from KIS discuss VMware's current landscape and the impact of Broadcom's acquisition on licensing models. They explore the transition from perpetual to subscription models, the confusion it has caused among clients, and the importance of understanding the total cost of ownership. The conversation also touches on the future of virtualization, the role of cloud solutions, and how KIS aims to support clients in navigating these changes.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties04:07 Overview of KIS and Its Role09:10 VMware and Broadcom: The Acquisition Impact18:58 Subscription Model Transition and Client Reactions28:59 The Debate on Subscription Software30:44 Conclusion and Future Considerations31:43 Navigating Budget Constraints and Client Control38:12 Communicating IT Decisions to Stakeholders44:38 Exploring Alternative Solutions in Virtualization46:23 The Future of Virtualization and Cloud Solutions53:10 Understanding KIS and Its OfferingsResources & Links:📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link📌 Connect with our guest:KIS - Keep IT Simple - LinkedInSean Canevaro – LinkedInMatt Eickmann - LinkedInVisit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

In this conversation, Ryen Nelsen, IT Security Manager for Mission Viejo, shares his journey in the field of AI and cybersecurity, discussing his role in local government and the importance of community engagement. He elaborates on the formation and objectives of the MISAC AI Task Force, highlighting promising applications of AI in local government, the challenges faced in its adoption, and the future of AI in the public sector. Ryen emphasizes the need for collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to integrating AI technologies to enhance public service.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Background03:07 Career Journey and Community Engagement05:46 AI in Cybersecurity and Local Government11:51 The AI Task Force and Its Objectives17:45 Promising Applications of AI in Local Government24:38 Challenges in AI Adoption31:23 Future of AI in Government38:33 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsResources & Links:📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link📌 Connect with our guest:Ryen Nelsen (City of Mission Viejo) – LinkedInVisit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

In this conversation, Brad Walker, the Executive Director of MISAC, shares insights into his extensive career in association management, the evolution of MISAC, and the importance of engagement among members. He discusses the role of the Association Resource Center (ARC) in managing MISAC, the dynamics of the state board, and the growth of membership over the years. Brad emphasizes the value of strategic partnerships and the upcoming conference highlights. He also offers advice for new IT leaders and reflects on his achievements within the association.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Technical Challenges02:15 Brad Walker's Journey in Association Management05:44 The Role of MISAC and ARC09:48 Team Dynamics and Responsibilities13:41 Evolution of MISAC and Membership Trends19:30 Engagement Between New and Longtime Members24:22 Future Priorities for MISAC29:04 Strategic Partnerships and Vendor Relationships35:22 Upcoming Conference Highlights39:17 The Tahoe Summit and Its Unique Value41:04 Advice for New IT Leaders43:10 Achievements and LegacyResources & Links:📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

In this episode of the Weekly Report, Allen Hammond discusses various topics relevant to the MISAC community, including technical challenges faced in podcasting, the importance of recognizing IT professionals, and the complexities of valuing municipal apps. He highlights community discussions on help desk policies, licensing issues with Broadcom VMware, and the need for reliable AV support for public meetings. The episode also covers Microsoft 365 backup solutions, the challenges of migrating to SharePoint, and upcoming MISAC events. Additionally, it features the Summer 2025 Newsletter with insights into GIS initiatives for public health, spotlighting MISAC member Shawn Smith and the developments of the AI Task Force.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Episode Highlights05:45 Celebrating IT Professionals11:40 Help Desk Policies and Service Levels17:26 After-Hours AV Support Challenges23:32 Migrating to SharePoint and OneDrive29:09 GIS and Public Health Initiatives34:57 Member Highlight: Sean Smith40:47 Closing Remarks and Future EpisodesVisit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

In this episode of MISAC Connect Audio, we welcome Bayley Dycus (City of San Ramon) as the newest host of our show and a member of the MISAC Communications Committee. We trace his 25‑year IT journey—from discovering networking in the U.S. Air Force through retail and state agencies to municipal service—and explore what drew him to public‑sector IT and keeps him passionate about enabling people through technology.Bayley talks about how he found MISAC, why he jumped into the Communications Committee (and now podcast hosting!), and his hope to make this show a go‑to resource for historical context, real‑world “right now” lessons, and forward‑looking conversations that help California’s municipal IT community drive the future instead of riding its waves.We close with a fun, rapid‑fire round:Can’t‑live‑without tech: Lansweeper for deployment, inventory, warranty tracking, and moreAlternate career path: Motivational speaker—“I’ll talk to anyone about anything”Favorite way to recharge: Live music & community park concerts (burrito optional)Top podcast pick: Love Your Money with Hilary Hendershott (financial advice & operating‑system mindset)Resources & Links: 📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link 📌 Connect with Bayley Dycus (City of San Ramon) – LinkedIn Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

In this inaugural edition of MISAC Connect Audio: Weekly, we kick off a new series designed to supplement the longer-form MISAC Connect Audio interviews. This episode spotlights active forum discussions, highlights from the Tahoe Summit’s strategic partner presentations, an audio-narrated version of the Spring Quarterly Newsletter, and key announcements from the MISAC community. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 — Intro & What is MISAC Connect Weekly? 02:12 — Forum Highlights 08:33 — Strategic Partner Spotlights (Tahoe Summit Recap) 14:45 — Upcoming Events 16:30 — Narrated Spring 2025 Quarterly Newsletter 40:03 — Wrap-Up & What's Coming Next for MISAC Connect Audio Highlights include:Forum discussions on phishing simulation training, Microsoft EA renewals, MS-ISAC changes, Cloudflare, video editing tools, and POS/cashiering systemsRecap of presentations from 101 Voice, Akamai, Cohesity, and ThinkGard at the 2025 Tahoe SummitUpcoming events: Microsoft Security Compliance & Identity training and the 2025 MISAC Excellence AwardA narrated reading of the Spring 2025 MISAC Newsletter (including member highlights, website update efforts, CIO insights, and real stories of MISAC community impact)Stay tuned for more voices and content in future episodes!Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

In this episode of MISAC Connect Audio, we take a deep dive into network and systems monitoring—focusing not just on the tools, but on the challenges, strategies, and best practices behind managing and securing modern networks.Building on a recent MISAC webinar, our guests Michael Tooma and Zachary Ruiz join me for a candid conversation about alert fatigue, incident escalation, historical data retention, monitoring virtual environments, and more. They share real-world insights from both large and small agencies, offering valuable perspectives on how to fine-tune monitoring systems for efficiency, reliability, and proactive problem-solving.Resources & Links:📌 Watch the original MISAC Webinar: Best Management Tools to Configure and Secure Your Network – Member Only Archive Link 📌 Learn more about MISAC Connect Audio – Member Only Link 📌 Connect with our guests:Michael Tooma (City of Fresno) – LinkedInZachary Ruiz (Dublin San Ramon Services District) – LinkedInVisit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

Welcome to MISAC Connect Audio: Your IT Community PodcastIn this episode of the MISAC Connect Podcast, we sit down with Jeff Lewis, a lifetime member of MISAC and a former CIO for the cities of Modesto and Concord. Jeff shares his unique perspective on the organization's origins, diving into the "how," "what," and "when" of its founding.Key topics discussed in this episode:The driving forces behind the creation of MISAC.Early challenges and milestones in MISAC's history.Jeff’s role in advancing technology in local government.The values and vision that shaped MISAC into what it is today.Jeff also reflects on his decades-long career in municipal IT, sharing invaluable insights and lessons learned along the way. Whether you're an experienced MISAC member or just learning about the organization, this episode offers something for everyone.Listen now to learn about MISAC’s inspiring origin story and gain insights into its ongoing legacy!Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

Welcome to MISAC Connect Audio: Your IT Community PodcastIn this inaugural episode of MISAC Connect Audio, host Allen Hammond interviews MISAC President Miguel Guardado about his career journey, involvement with MISAC, and the organization's future direction. This episode offers insights into MISAC's direction under Miguel's leadership and the benefits the organization provides its members across California.Some highlights include:Miguel's early interest in technology and the mentors who helped shape his career path led him to roles in the public sector.Miguel's entry into MISAC and the value he found in the collaborative community.Miguel discusses his journey to becoming MISAC President, his goals for supporting the regional chapters, and the importance of teamwork.MISAC's recent strategic planning efforts focused on priorities like AI, cybersecurity, and professional development.The upcoming MISAC Annual Conference in Monterey.Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.

Welcome to MISAC Connect Audio: Your IT Community PodcastWelcome to the trailer for MISAC Connect Audio! In this brief introduction, Allen Hammond, a 20+ year MISAC member, Communications Committee member, and North Chapter officer, introduces you to our new podcast designed to complement the MISAC Connect community forum. Discover what MISAC Connect Audio has in store for you as we dive deeper into the discussions that matter most to municipal IT professionals. Subscribe now to MISAC Connect Audio to stay updated on our latest episodes. Our first full episode featuring Miguel Guardado, MISAC President, is coming soon. Don’t miss out! Visit our MISAC Connect forum for more discussions and community engagement.Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates and announcements.