Shows
Minerva MeetsYour Biggest Competitor: AI Driven BusinessesIn this episode, I invited Jim McNamara, President and CEO of 8 Penny Labs, to discuss the competitive challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the digital landscape. We explore how technological advancements, particularly AI, are reshaping competition and customer expectations. Jim emphasizes the importance of innovation, strategic planning, and leveraging offshore resources. He advocates for a mindset of "failing fast" to foster resilience and adaptability. This episode provides valuable insights for SMBs on integrating AI and digital tools to stay competitive and meet evolving customer demands.******2025-04-2347 minMinerva MeetsAI vs. Automation: What’s the Difference?In this episode, I sit down with Elisa Silverglade, Director of Intelligent Automation at Techromatic, to break down the key differences between artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, two technologies that often get mixed up.Elisa shares her expertise on how automation improves efficiency, particularly in the legal sector, while I explain how AI goes beyond automation by analyzing data, recognizing patterns, and making predictions.We also debunk common myths about AI and automation replacing jobs and provide practical steps for SMBs looking to adopt these technologies strategically. Whether you’re...2025-03-1347 min
The Free Lawyer296. How Can Law Firms Strengthen Their Cybersecurity Posture?In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary converses with Sonal Chandler, founder and CEO of Minerva Consulting, about the critical importance of cybersecurity for small to mid-sized law firms. They discuss common vulnerabilities such as weak passwords and lack of multi-factor authentication, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift towards security awareness. Sonal provides practical steps for protecting client data and integrating AI into legal practices. The episode underscores the significance of training, risk management, and fostering a supportive environment for cybersecurity initiatives, aiming to help law firms navigate the evolving digital landscape confidently.Sonal Chandler is...2025-03-0629 minMinerva MeetsCyber Insurance - What SMBs Need to KnowIn this episode, I invited Gregg Knepper, President of Integrated Coverage Group, to discuss the critical topic of cyber insurance and what every small business needs to know it. Gregg emphasizes the necessity of cyber insurance for businesses of all sizes, debunking myths that small businesses are not targets for cyber attacks. He explains the differences between standard business policies and standalone cyber insurance, highlighting the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures to qualify for coverage. The episode also covers the evolving application process and the need for businesses to...2025-02-2137 minMinerva MeetsHow Can AI Transform Customer Experience and Build Trust?In this episode, I interview Tom Cates, founder and president of The Brookside Group and Encompass CX. The discussion centers on customer experience (CX) and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on it.
Tom, with nearly 30 years of expertise in customer retention and loyalty, explains that CX is shaped by all customer interactions and their comparisons with competitors. He emphasizes the importance of perception, managing customer expectations, and becoming a trusted advisor. Tom also discusses how AI can enhance customer interactions, providing deeper insights for sales teams to improve customer relationships and loyalty.
2025-01-0950 minMinerva MeetsSeason 1 Recap & What’s Next for 2025 🎉Welcome to the Season 1 Recap of Minerva Meets! In this milestone episode, host Sonal Chandler reflects on the incredible insights and expert guests who made 2024 unforgettable—and sets the stage for what’s ahead in 2025.
📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How cybersecurity and AI innovation shaped this season’s conversations.
Key takeaways from standout episodes, grouped into four themes:
🚀 Technology & Workplace Innovation
🔒 Cybersecurity Fundamentals
🤖 AI Insights
🌍 Industry-Specific Challenges
The big lessons that connect these topics: Cybersecurity and AI are reshaping how industries innovate, respond to threats, and embrace change.
🌟 Looking Ahead: 2025 and Minerva Mi...2024-12-2023 minMinerva MeetsExploring Cybersecurity in Maritime OperationsIn this episode, I sit down with Walter Anderson, a seasoned vCISO and maritime cybersecurity expert, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities in securing global shipping and logistics.
From real-world cyber threats to future-proofing with emerging technologies, we discuss the critical role of cybersecurity in protecting maritime operations and the global economy.
Tune in for an insightful and engaging conversation about safeguarding one of the world's most vital industries!
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To learn more about working with Minerva, visit our
online home at Minerva Consulting Inc.
Contact us at letstalk@minervaconsultinginc.com.
Find Minerva on ...2024-11-2036 minMinerva MeetsHow AI Can Transform Investment BankingIn this episode, I sit down with Shawn Flynn, a
seasoned investment banker and podcast host to explore how AI is transforming the investment banking landscape.
From streamlining operations to enhancing
decision-making, we discuss the most impactful AI applications and what the future holds for the industry.
Tune in for a fascinating and fun conversation
about the intersection of finance and cutting-edge technology!
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To learn more about working with Minerva, visit our
online home at Minerva Consulting Inc.
Contact us at letstalk@minervaconsult...2024-10-2444 minMinerva MeetsBreaking Down XDRIn this episode of Minerva Meets, I’m joined by
Trenelle Pierce, MBA, a cybersecurity leader specializing in enterprise risk management. Together, we break down Extended Detection and Response (XDR) to understand its role in cybersecurity.
Trenelle shares her insights on how XDR enhances threat detection, strengthens security operations, and helps
organizations stay ahead of emerging threats. We also discuss the challenges of adopting XDR and what the future holds for this evolving technology.
Anyone curious about cybersecurity will gain valuable insights from this episode on how to stay pr...2024-09-1835 min
CvCISO PodcastEpisode 20: Taking the Non-Technical PathIn this episode of the CvCISO Podcast, Evan and Meg sit down with Sonal Chandler, founder of Minerva Consulting, to discuss her journey into cybersecurity as a non-technical professional. Sonal shares how she built credibility through certifications and emphasizes the value of diverse perspectives in the industry. The conversation covers key topics, including the challenges of hiring in cybersecurity, the importance of asking 'why' to drive creativity, and the supportive nature of the CvCISO program. Sonal also talks about building client trust, overcoming biases in assessments, and the role of effective communication and transparency. Finally, they explore the significance of...2024-08-3058 minMinerva MeetsCrowdStrike DeconstructedIn this episode, I'm joined by a panel of three distinguished experts: Chris Harrison, Keith Richard, and Byron de Jesus, to break down the recent CrowdStrike outage. Each guest offers their unique insights into the incident.
Together, we unravel what happened, why it occurred, and most importantly, what lessons can be learned. The episode underscores the importance of being prepared, no matter the size of your organization and emphasizes the critical need for Disaster Recovery (DR), Incident Response (IR), and Business Continuity (BC) plans.
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To learn more...2024-08-0858 minMinerva MeetsThe Human Side of AIIn this episode, I have the pleasure of hosting Joanie Connell, Ph.D., President of Flexible Work Solutions. Our conversation dives into AI Mediated Communication and the evolving dynamics of Human-to-AI Interactions.
Dr. Connell brings her expertise to the forefront as we explore the ethical challenges and considerations surrounding AI technologies. We also examine the powerful impact of persuasive technology on our daily lives.
Whether you're a business leader, IT professional, or simply curious about AI, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the ethical and practical...2024-07-1741 minMinerva MeetsGRC Essentials for CybersecurityIn this episode, I'm joined by Cathy Miron, CEO of eSilo, a renowned expert in the realm of data protection and cybersecurity. Together, we delve into the intricacies of Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) and explore how businesses can effectively navigate this critical landscape.
Cathy shares her vast experience in helping organizations protect their data, ensuring they meet compliance standards while managing risk. We discuss the fundamentals of GRC and provide practical tips for getting started.
Whether you're a business leader, IT professional, or simply interested in cybersecurity, this e...2024-06-2651 minMinerva MeetsFoundations of AI: Implementation & Overcoming ChallengesIn this episode, I welcome Murali Kashaboina a seasoned AI expert and co-founder of AI solutions company,
Entrigna, Inc. As an AI advisor, practitioner,
and researcher, Murali shares insights on crafting an AI strategy that’s right for your organization.
Our discussion highlights how to get started with developing an AI strategy and roadmap as well as implementing AI in your organization. We discuss potential challenges and why thinking big but starting small is key to a successful AI implementation.
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Links referenced in this episode:
IMF’s, Gen...2024-05-1356 minMinerva MeetsCybersecurity: The BasicsIn this episode, I welcome Jeffrey Englander, a seasoned professional with experience in Cybersecurity, Governance/Risk/Compliance, Fintech, and Sustainability. Jeff offers his unique insights on creating effective cybersecurity roadmaps and strategies.
Our discussion highlights the critical role of
cybersecurity in today's digital landscape, with a focus on protecting your data & organization overall. Jeff shares practical examples of effective cybersecurity measures in action. Tune in to discover essential strategies for enhancing your digital security and safeguarding sensitive information.
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Links referenced in this episode:
NIST
SBA
2024-04-1745 minMinerva MeetsHuman-Centered Design - Creating Experiences That MatterIn this episode, I welcome Hugh Musick, a seasoned expert in innovation and design strategy, to dive into the essence of Human-Centered Design (HCD). With Hugh's extensive background in leading strategic initiatives and fostering design thinking, we explore the origins, core principles, and future directions of HCD.
Our discussion sheds light on how HCD is shaping products and services by focusing on the human experience, emphasizing empathy, inclusivity, and sustainability. Hugh shares compelling examples of HCD in action. Tune in to gain valuable insights into creating meaningful experiences that resonate deeply with users.
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To learn...2024-03-2146 minMinerva MeetsModern Law Office: The Role of AnalyticsIn this episode my guest, Rohit Gupta, and I dive into demystifying back office analytics in a law firm. We explain what legal analytics is, why it's important, and how law firms are using back office data to improve decision making. We also touch on how AI and automation are impacting law firms today. Join us as we uncover the pivotal role analytics plays in the legal sector.
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To learn more about working with us, visit our online home at Minerva Consulting Inc.
Contact us at letstalk@minervaconsultinginc.com.
Find Minerva...2024-02-2844 minMinerva MeetsTech Adoption in the WorkplaceMy guest Paul Varnedoe and I explore how tech adoption is reshaping the workplace. We discuss the impact of automation, AI, and digital tools on the way we work. We also discuss the skills needed for future jobs and how to leverage technology to find work-life-balance.
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Visit our online home at Minerva Consulting Inc to learn more about working with us.
Contact us at letstalk@minervaconsultinginc.com.
Find Minerva on LinkedIn.
Learn more about the host, Sonal Chandler.
Learn more about our guest Paul Varnedoe.
Listen to...2024-02-1439 min
Minerva MeetsTrailerMinerva Meets is an engaging podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of business and technology.
2024-02-0701 min
Wellness Junkies (formerly Nirvana Sisters)How to Clear Your Mind in 5 Minutes with Aromatherapist and Founder of The Om Room, Sonal ShahThis week, we talk to scent obsessed aromatherapist and Founder of The Om Room, Sonal Shah. Sonal shares with us the ancient rituals of aromatherapy and smoke therapy, otherwise known as smudging. We learn about where these rituals come from, how and when to do them, and the benefits. We discuss the differences between Palo Santo and Sage, plus a 101 breakdown of how to actually do it. At the end, Amy shares the latest product she is loving and Sonal shares a personal mantra.Sonal Shah, a scent obsessed aromatherapist and lover of all things healing, created...2021-05-1347 min