Securing the Food Chain with Systems Thinking with Carl "CJ" Unis

In this engaging episode of the Bites and Bytes Podcast, we welcome Carl 'CJ' Unis, a Systems Engineer with the U.S. Space Force and Principal at Unis Complexity Solutions.  CJ brings over 20 years of expertise in systems engineering and infrastructure logistics to our conversation.  He illuminates the critical role of systems thinking in enhancing cybersecurity within the food industry.  His background includes analyzing cascading infrastructure failures for the Department of Homeland Security at Sandia National Laboratories and serving as a federal agent for the Department of Energy.  Not to mention, CJ's experience in the U.S. Marine Corps adds a unique perspective to his insights. This episode was pre-recorded in January 2024 and predates the current critical infrastructure incidents or challenges highlighted in recent media.  CJ's insights offer a proactive perspective and underscore the strategic importance of resilience in system thinking, providing a valuable lens to view and address the evolving cybersecurity landscape. Episode Key Highlights: (00:29 - 01:24) System Engineering and Food Cybersecurity (08:56 - 11:07) Food and Cyber Security Risks (13:47 - 15:40) Rapid Technological Advancement in 2024 (18:01 - 18:46) Cybersecurity Impact on Food Industry (23:22 - 25:03) Understanding Natural Cycles and Engineering (29:06 - 31:12) Systems Thinking in Risk Management (32:19 - 33:36) Food Industry's Wide-Reaching Impact (37:48 - 39:37) Universal Industry Problems (43:16 - 44:02) Unsung Heroes of Everyday Life (45:38 - 47:06) Insider Threat and Vulnerability Analysis How to connect with CJ:  LinkedIn and Contact Card Course CJ teaches: “Systems Thinking in Emergency Management.” Article CJ co-authored: “Rethinking Future Food Chains: Systems Thinking and the Cascading Consequences of System Failure." Research Paper CJ co-authored:  “Building Food System Resilience within a Learning Organization.” Systems Thinking Alliance Additional Show notes and guest inquiry information are on the Bites and Bytes Website. If you want to learn more about AnzenOT, please check the website or reach out on LinkedIn. FKfxRoQqxr9G0n03s16G

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Bites and Bytes Podcast explores cybersecurity, technology, and beyond in the food industry. Discover the exciting world where cybersecurity, technology, and the food industry converge on the Bites and Bytes Podcast.  As one of the few shows focusing on cybersecurity in the food sector, we offer unique insights and groundbreaking discussions.  Our interview-style chats and in-depth discussions reveal the challenges and innovations at the intersection of digital defenses, food protection, and systems thinking. Everything is interconnected, whether through technology, natural cycles, or systems.  Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or passionate about safeguarding our food supply, please tune in for conversations illuminating this dynamic and evolving field!