Shows
Cloudy with a Chance of InsightsEP26 | From Keynotes to Copilot Realities: Honest Talk on Microsoft, AWS, and Intune’s EvolutionIn this episode, the team dives into the latest cloud industry keynotes, comparing Microsoft’s agent-focused messaging with AWS’s infrastructure-first approach. David unpacks the real progress in AI, from research pipelines to agentic frameworks, while Richard shares his ongoing adventures (and occasional frustrations) with GitHub Copilot—think less chaos, more candid lessons learned.Cyrus rounds things out with a practical look at Intune Suite’s new features, what’s now included in E3 and E5, and why these updates matter for security and device management. Expect grounded commentary, a dash of British sarcasm, and plenty of real-world...
2025-12-1551 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsEP25 | Cloud Security, Vibe Coding & WorkIQ: What’s Real and What’s Hype?This week on Cloudy with a Chance of Insights, Richard, David, and Cyrus dive into the biggest announcements from Microsoft Ignite—without the marketing fluff. From Security Copilot landing in every E5 license, to the merging of Defender portals, and the rise of agentic solutions, we break down what’s actually new, what’s just rebranding, and what’s still in preview. BlogThe Microsoft Cloud BlogYouTubeCloudy with a Chance of Insights - YouTubeSoicialsTwitter / XBlueSkyLinkedInThreadsFacebookFor all...
2025-12-0148 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsEP24: AI Superfactory, Zero Trust, and the Fax Driver FiascoThis week’s “Cloudy with a Chance of Insights” dives into the latest from the Microsoft Cloud ecosystem, with Richard, David, and Cyrus tackling everything from AI datacenter architecture to Zero Trust compliance, new certifications, and some eyebrow-raising security stories. Expect candid commentary, a dash of British sarcasm, and practical insights for IT leaders and practitioners. BlogThe Microsoft Cloud BlogYouTubeCloudy with a Chance of Insights - YouTubeSoicialsTwitter / XBlueSkyLinkedInThreadsFacebookFor all the links to the articl...
2025-11-1749 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsEP23 | Front Door Fiascos, Diagram Deaths, and the Security Theatre: A Cloudy RantWelcome to another episode of "Cloudy with a Chance of Insights," where the only thing more unpredictable than the British weather is the state of the Microsoft Cloud. This week, Richard, David, and Cyrus gather to dissect a week that saw Azure Front Door trip over its own welcome mat, the existential crisis of the humble architecture diagram, and a healthy dose of security theatre—complete with all the drama and none of the popcorn. BlogThe Microsoft Cloud BlogYouTubeCloudy with a Chance of Insights - YouTubeSo...
2025-11-0353 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsTypeChat, DeepSpeed, Entra & Purview Updates and the Joys of Not Preparing | EP22Welcome back to Cloudy with a Chance of Insights, the bi-weekly podcast where three Microsoft Cloud architects (Richard, David, and Cyrus) attempt to make sense of the ever-expanding universe of Azure, M365, D365, and all things cloud—usually with minimal preparation and maximum digression. This week, Richard kicks things off with a personal update, before launching into a philosophical ramble about why he’s doing a podcast at all—spoiler: it’s not for the likes, but if you fancy pressing that button, it does help others find us though :-)David then dives into Microsof...
2025-10-2053 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsOne Token to Rule Them All? Azure Security, AI Agents & Certifications Unpacked | EP21This week on Cloudy with a Chance of Insights, Richard, David, and Cyrus unpack a wide range of Microsoft Cloud updates and real-world challenges. Dive into the new Microsoft Agent Framework, Arc Gateway’s general availability, and the latest AI research breakthroughs. We explore Sentinel Graph, Meister’s Azure Web App release, and fresh developments in certifications and applied skills. Security takes centre stage with a deep dive into the “one token to rule them all” vulnerability, plus practical tips for managing cross-tenant integrations. The team also discusses spec-driven development, GitHub Copilot, and the quirks of generative AI codin...
2025-10-0551 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsPatch Tuesday and SMB, Entra App Management Policies, MacOS Vulnerability & UK Gov/MSFT's 30bn Deal.Cloudy with a Chance of Insights returns with Richard and Cyrus (minus David this week) for a fast-paced, insightful discussion on the latest in Microsoft Cloud, security, and AI.Richard kicks things off with a deep dive into Microsoft’s $30 billion investment in UK cloud infrastructure, exploring what it means for data sovereignty, jobs, and the future of AI in the region. Cyrus then shares how a Microsoft Sysinternals tool for Mac helped uncover a critical MacOS vulnerability, before breaking down the latest Microsoft Entra app management policies and why security pros sometimes cheer for feature removals....
2025-09-2231 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsZero Trust, Logic Apps , Intune Updates, OneGov & Azure Service Groups | EP19Join Richard, David, and Cyrus for a lively, practical discussion on the latest from the Microsoft Cloud universe. This episode covers Zero Trust in action, Intune and security updates, Logic Apps on Rancher K3s, Azure Service Groups, Excel’s Fabric One Lake integration, the US government’s “OneGov” mega-deal with Microsoft, new Defender for Cloud features in GovCloud, and developer-focused updates in VS Code and Azure DevOps. Highlights:Zero Trust: Microsoft’s updated assessment tools and workshops, now with six pillars for holistic security.Intune & Security: Targeted app control, autopilot patching, real-time Apple device management, and multi...
2025-09-0843 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsCloud Security, AI Strategy, and the Case for Critical Thinking | EP18 In this episode, the team explores Microsoft’s evolving cloud strategy through the lens of security, AI, and architectural shifts. Key Topics: Azure Network Security Perimeter: A modular approach to securing individual resources rather than entire networks. Linux OS Guard: Microsoft’s push to make Linux a first-class citizen in Azure, with secure boot and VTPM-backed trust. Satya Nadella’s Mission Reframing: A cultural and strategic pivot toward AI and security as Microsoft’s core priorities. Microsoft Graph Terraform Provider: Cyrus explains the significance of zero-day support and full lifecycle management across Microsoft 365 and Entra. Terrafor...
2025-08-2550 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsAI at the Edge: Sentinel Data Lake, SharePoint Exploits & the Future of WindowsIn this episode of Cloudy with a Chance of Insights, Richard, David, and Cyrus explore the cutting edge of Microsoft Cloud innovation.The conversation begins with a deep dive into Microsoft Research’s new framework for classifying human-AI interactions—an essential step toward building smarter, more responsive applications.David then introduces the public preview of Windows Backup for Organizations, a cloud-backed solution that ties user profiles and settings to identity, offering a new layer of resilience for enterprise environments.Richard shares insights on Sentinel Data Lake, a powerful new tool for aggregating and analyzing secu...
2025-08-1151 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsHOLDING THE FORT, Exchange Server SE, Sentinel Deprecation, MCP for MS SQL & Purview OCR FeatureIn this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', Richard Hogan discusses his transition to a new role within IBM, the upcoming changes in Microsoft's XDR and Sentinel solutions, and new features in Microsoft Purview. He shares his experiences with Copilot and productivity tools, explores the implications of natural language processing in SQL Server, and discusses the introduction of Exchange Server subscription edition. The episode concludes with reflections on changing career paths in the tech industry due to the rise of AI. KEYWORDS#MicrosoftCloud, #Copilot, #SQLServer, #ExchangeServer, #Purview, #X...
2025-07-0634 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsM365 Local, Sovereign Cloud, Logic App Updates | EP15In this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', the hosts discuss Microsoft's recent announcement regarding the expansion of its sovereign cloud initiative, particularly focusing on the implications for Microsoft 365 Local. They explore the significance of data sovereignty, the inclusion of Exchange and SharePoint servers, and the absence of Teams in the sovereign package. The conversation also delves into the balance between AI investments and cybersecurity, highlighting the evolving landscape of cloud security responsibilities. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of identity and access management (IAM) and data security, emphasizing the importance of robust identity...
2025-06-2349 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsMicrosoft Build, NLWeb, Cosmos DB Global Secondary Indexes, and Entra Agent ID | EP14In this week’s episode of Cloudy with a Chance of Insights, David, Cyrus and Richard discuss the latest developments in Microsoft Cloud. They explore personal learning journeys, particularly in AIcertifications, and delve into cybersecurity topics, including passwordless authentication and the introduction of Microsoft Entra. The discussion also covers the significance of passkeys, the integration of security in development processes, and the potential of Natural Language Web in AI applications. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various technological advancements, particularly focusing on Cosmos DB's global secondary indexes, the role of AI in research and dev...
2025-06-0247 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsCloudy With A Chance of Insights - UpdateJust a quick update for subscribes to the @CloudyWithaChanceofInsights podcast. As you know we tend to record the episodes on a Thursday/Friday and release on the following Monday.This week we are doing something a little different and using LinkedIn Live to Live Stream the episode. Why LinkedIn and not YouTube, I don't hear you ask, well there is a work reason behind this which we will explain during the recording.But please join us for Cloudy with a Chance of Insights Live on LinkedIn on the 30th May, 15:00 UK Time and 10:00am Eastern....
2025-05-2901 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsM365 Backup, Sovereign Cloud, Windows Server Summit and Tech Layoffs | EP13In this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', thehosts discuss various topics including the recent tech layoffs affectingMicrosoft and other companies, the importance of community support during thesetimes, and valuable resources for Azure solution design. They also explore new features in Windows Server 2025 andthe implications of Sovereign Cloud in Europe. In this conversation, RichardHogan and Cyrus Irandoust discuss the recent updates in backup solutions forMicrosoft 365, particularly focusing on SharePoint, Exchange, and OneDrive.They explore the implications of these updates for data recovery andsovereignty, emphasising the importance of local data control and thechallenges posed by regulations...
2025-05-1949 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsMicrosoft EU Strategy, Intune & Defender Updates, MCRA & SharePoint 2019 End of Life | EP12Welcome to the latest instalment of Cloudy with a Chance of Insights, a bi-weekly podcast dedicated to exploring developments in the Microsoft cloud ecosystem and related technologies.In this episode, hosts Richard Hogan, David Rowley, and Cyrus Irandoust examine key topics shaping Microsoft’s technological landscape. The discussion offers insights on:➡ AI Innovations: A summary of a recent hackathon and its focus on advancing artificial intelligence solutions.➡ Cybersecurity: Updates on the importance of automatic attack disruption and its role in improving digital security.➡ Changes to SharePoint Licensing: Analysis of the subscription model, its impact on legacy system migrations, and consider...
2025-05-051h 00Cloudy with a Chance of InsightsNew Features in Copilot Studio, Student SOC’s and Purview & Defender Updates for Secure AI | Cloudy with a Chance of Insights | EP11In this week’s episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance ofInsights', the hosts discuss various recent developments in the Microsoft Cloud, including the new Copilot Studio features. The conversation also touches on security vulnerabilities and the implications of the CVE program. The hosts share insights on navigating technology changes and the importance of data privacy. They explore the significance of Student Security OperationsCentres (SOCS) in bridging the skills gap in cybersecurity education. The discussion also delves into the rise of agentic AI in cybersecurity, highlighting its potential to enhance security measures and the implications of AI in th...
2025-04-2242 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsInsider Risk Management, Hands-Free Music Production and Cyber Resilience vs Traditional BC/HA/DRIn this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', thehosts discuss various topics related to Microsoft Cloud technologies, including the innovative Microsoft Hands-Free Sound Jam, which allows users to control music through brainwave technology. They also delve into recent cybersecurity incidents, such as the potential Royal Mail dat breach, and the implications of new legislation on cybersecurity resilience. The conversation shifts to the relationship between cyberresiliency and traditional disaster recovery, highlighting the need for a more integrated approach. The discussion moves to insider risk management, emphasising the importance...
2025-04-0752 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsIdentity Governance, SMB's & Cybercrime, Azure Landing Zones and Iced Coffee | EP09This week the hosts discuss various topics related toMicrosoft Cloud, including the significance of JML processes for account security, the challenges of managing permissions and access control, the launch of serverless GPUs, strategies for infrastructure landing zones, and the increasing cybersecurity threats faced by small and medium businesses (SMBs).The conversation emphasises the necessity for organisationsto be proactive in their security measures and to remain informed about the latest technological developments. This discussion explores the critical issues surroundingcybersecurity for small businesses, underscoring the vulnerabilities they encounter and the significance of tailored security solutions. C...
2025-03-2452 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsThe Kaito Project, Microsoft AI Tour London, IBM Cyber Range and Apple vs UK Government | EPO8In this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', thehosts discuss various topics related to Microsoft Cloud, AI tools, cybersecurity, and recent technological developments.They share insights from the Microsoft AI Tour, the benefitsof accessibly from Generative AI, and experiences from an IBM Cyber Range exercise. The conversation also delves into the implications ofgovernment requests for encrypted data and recent tech developments, including tools for reporting phishing emails and releasing classic game source codes. LINKSThe Microsoft AI Tour - Londonhttps://aitour.microsoft.com/en-US/l...
2025-03-1030 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsEntra God Mode, Intune MAC OS Update, Data Formulator & Impact of GenAI on Critical ThinkingIn this episode of Cloudy with the Chance of Insights, the bi-weekly Microsoft Cloud Podcast. The hosts discuss various topics related to Microsoft Cloud technology, including the new God Mode feature in Entra, enhancements in Intune for MAC security, and recent data breaches affecting organisations like the British Museum and HPE. The conversation emphasises the importance of security hygiene, user access management, and the need for organisations to adapt to modern endpoint management solutions. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of technology governance, data automation, and the implications of generative AI on critical thinking.
2025-02-2440 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsProject Stargate, Coldplay + AI, SASE vs SSE & Residuality | EP06 | Cloudy with a Chance of InsightsIn this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', the hosts discuss the latest developments in the Microsoft Cloud space, including OpenAI's Project Stargate and its implications for AI investments.
They explore the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, particularly the relevance of VPNs and the emergence of SASE. The conversation also touches on the concept of Residuality Theory in software architecture, emphasizing flexibility over perfection.
The episode concludes with insights on Microsoft's innovative collaboration with Coldplay and reflections on the global tech market dynamics.
LINKS
Announcing The Stargate Projecthttps://openai.com...
2025-02-1030 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsM365 Expanded Logs, Red Teaming & DDoS Attacks | EP05 | Cloudy with a Chance of InsightsIn this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', the hosts discuss recent developments in Microsoft Cloud, focusing on security updates related to Exchange Online, the implications of red teaming in AI security, and the growing threat of DDoS attacks. They also touch on the challenges in the cybersecurity field, including the shortage of professionals and the costs associated with defending against attacks.
The conversation highlights the importance of proactive measures and collaboration in enhancing cloud security. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the latest advancements in AI and storage technologies.
They wrap...
2025-01-2742 min
Cloudy with a Chance of Insights2024 Retrospective and Thoughts on 2025UPDATE: Apologies, I uploaded the incorrect audio file, this has now been resolved
In this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', the hosts reflect on the past year in Microsoft Cloud, discussing key highlights and looking forward to future trends.
They emphasize the growing importance of security, shifts in security practices, and the shared responsibility model. The conversation also delves into challenges in cloud migration, the future of quantum computing, and the intersection of AI and quantum technologies.
KEYWORDS:
#MicrosoftCloud, #security, #quantumcomputing, #AI, #cloudmigration, #cybersecurity
2025-01-1048 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsIntroduction to Maester, Oversharing Controls in M365 & Zero TrustIn this episode of 'Cloudy with a Chance of Insights', the hosts discuss various topics related to Microsoft Cloud, including the Meister tool for security configuration, the concept of Zero Trust, oversharing controls in M365, and the importance of data security.
They also highlight Microsoft's achievement of 100% coverage of the MITRE attack framework and new features in Microsoft Sentinel for security posture assessment. The conversation emphasises the need for proactive security measures and user adoption in organisations.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Microsoft Cloud Insights
02:30 Exploring Meister: A PowerShell-Based Tool for Security Configuration
10:10 Understanding...
2025-01-0342 min
Cloudy with a Chance of InsightsAzure Local, Radius & Azure Bastion ServiceOn this week's episode, Cyrus provides an overview of Azure Local a new service which builds on the existing Azure Stack HCI service, whilst David introduces Richard to Radius, which is a cloud-native application platform that enables developers and IT operators to collaborate on delivering and managing cloud-native applications.
Richard then highlights some changes to the Azure Bastion Service and the deprecation of the Azure AD API service. We then cover some general IT news or interesting items we discovered over the last week, including a potential new Christmas No 1
Show Notes
Azure...
2024-12-1349 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsPlanes, Microsoft Ignite and SquirrelsThis week's episode covers Richard's travel woes, a recap of Microsoft Ignite, and a round-up of some of the more interesting (at least to us) news stories from the past couple of weeks.
References
Microsoft Ignite - On Demand
https://ignite.microsoft.com/en-US
Microsoft Ignite Keynote
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YiB2OvK6sY
Windows 365 Link
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXS8VhtosGI
Cross Subscription Load Balancers
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/load-balancer/cross-subscription-overview
Chinese Research Team Breaks RSA Encryption
https://www.techno-science.net/en/news/chinese-researchers-succeed-in-breaking-rsa-encryption-using-quantum-computer-N25990.html
Conservationists Turn to AI in Battle to...
2024-11-2950 minCloudy with a Chance of InsightsThe Journey BeginsPilot episode of a new series where Richard Hogan, David Rowley and Cyrus Irandoust discuss all things Microsoft Cloud, tech in general as well as reminiscing about old tech and other items of a bygone age.
2024-11-1530 min