The Weekly Rundown 6/2-6

Welcome back to The Weekly Run-Down! This week, we're exploring the balance between on-screen and off-screen power-ups and moves. I unpack my experience with the long-awaited launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 (spoiler: not a flop), and over on the podcast, Shannon and I reflect on what really matters—family, purpose, and staying grounded in the midst of tech chaos.

From AI models testing ethical boundaries to federal budget cuts threatening our national cyber posture, this week’s topics reminded us that resilience isn’t just digital—it’s personal. Whether you're navigating through red shells in Mario Kart World or grappling with the practical consequences of data leaks and job cuts, adaptability remains crucial.

Barely Gaming

Switch 2 Launch Day: Not a Flop (Yet)

Yesterday was officially Switch 2 Day—and it finally happened! Nintendo dropped a successor to one of its most beloved consoles, and shockingly... it might not be a flop.

In our last newsletter, I gave the Wii its flowers and threw respectful shade at its less successful siblings, the Wii U and GameCube. (I owned them all—so yes, I’m qualified to kill some of my darlings.) But this launch felt different for me. It was my first stateside console release where I didn’t wait in line—I just chilled at home and waited for UPS. At 42, I just didn't have the energy to stand in line with the masses.

Unfortunately, while the Switch 2 arrived right on time, the only game I pre-ordered—Mario Kart World—got stuck in Jacksonville, FL. So there I was: Nintendo’s most powerful console in hand... and nothing new to play.

Luckily, I still had Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and with my upgraded Nintendo Online + Expansion Pack, I downloaded the Switch 2 patch for free (otherwise $10). Starting a fresh save and seeing Link run around in 4K, 60 FPS, and HDR was stunning—but I’ve already played that game.

So I hopped in the car and drove to my local Best Buy. What I found was a wiped-out Switch 2 section—everything gone. It felt like Circuit City circa 2008. Shoutout to Best Buy, though—I’ve got fond memories of blasting sound systems in their Magnolia room with my Anchorage, Alaska crew. Still, it’s tough to see the store now, as it has mostly become a showroom for TVs that customers can test in-store but will ultimately buy from Amazon.

But back to the mission: I asked a sales rep (shoutout to the blue shirt crew) if they had any copies of Mario Kart World left. He disappeared into the back and returned triumphantly with a copy in hand. I pushed my luck asking for a Switch 2 Pro controller—he laughed. Those were long gone by launch night.

Back home, I popped in Mario Kart World and ran a few 50cc races to get my bearings—not because I forgot how to play, but because I wanted to master rail grinding and wall jumping. A few hours later, I was dusting my 10-year-old… though he did manage to beat me twice, so props to him.

Final thoughts? The Switch 2 looks amazing on my TV, feels fantastic in handheld mode, and has a premium build overall. Sure, I wish there were more launch titles, but the upgraded GPU and OLED-like screen make me happy to be an early adopter.

Will it match the heights of the original Switch? Hard to say. That console had a global pandemic and no competition. Now? We’ve got inflation, fewer lockdowns, and higher price tags. But I don’t think it’ll flop. This might be one of those rare times Nintendo played it safe—and we all won.

Until next time.

Friday - The Weekly Run Down 6/6/25

In this week’s Other Side of the Firewall episode, Shannon and I took a step back from cybersecurity to focus on what matters most—family. From staycations at Great Wolf Lodge to a birthday getaway in Cancun, we shared laughs, sunburns, and unforgettable memories. These moments reminded us why we work so hard in the first place. Shannon’s reflections on taking his kids on overpriced adventures and my own surprise appearance on the dance floor at a silent party were less about the cost or coordination and more about being present.

Of course, we still found time to catch up on a few documentaries that sparked thoughtful conversations. Shannon unpacked Untold: The Fall of Favre, shedding light on the quarterback’s personal controversies and his thoughts on the OceanGate Titan documentary, which explored the real consequences of leadership without accountability. Whether it was reflecting on hero worship or exploring disaster through a family’s eyes, the media we consumed echoed the same truth: family and responsibility are always at the center.

As always, catch the latest content and updates at theothersideofthefirewall.com.

The Other Side of the Firewall: The Real-Life Stories of Movers, Shakers, & Glass Ceiling Breakers in Cybersecurity

The Other Side of the Firewall: The Real-Life Stories of Movers, Shakers, & Glass Ceiling Breakers in Cybersecurity is more than a book — it's a movement.

In this groundbreaking collection of real-life stories, cybersecurity leader Ryan Williams Sr. brings together the voices of 27 cyber and cyber-adjacent leaders who broke barriers, shattered stereotypes, and built their careers in a field not designed for them.

Inside, you'll hear from

🔹 Women defying expectations in a male-dominated space

🔹 Veterans translating discipline into tech leadership

🔹 Neurodivergent thinkers solving problems others miss

🔹 People of color navigating bias while rising through the ranks

🔹 Career switchers proving it's never too late to break in

Whether you're just starting in cybersecurity or looking to lead with authenticity, this book is your real-world roadmap — full of insight, resilience, and lived experience.

Wednesday - Insider Threat or Lapse in Cyber Hygiene?

In this week's episode of The Other Side of the Firewall, we explore the alarming increase in government data leaks. Shannon Tynes and I discuss how insider threats, exacerbated by recent federal layoffs, are compromising national security. We also discussed the importance of cyber hygiene and the role of social media in unintentional data exposure. Tune in to understand the human element behind these breaches and strategies to fortify your organization's defenses.

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Tuesday - More CISA Budget Cuts?

The proposed fiscal 2026 budget includes significant cuts to CISA, reducing its workforce by over 1,000 positions and slashing funding by nearly $500 million. These reductions threaten to weaken the nation's cyber defenses, eliminating key programs and hindering workforce development. As cyber threats continue to escalate, sustained investment in cybersecurity is more critical than ever.

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Monday - The Dark Side of AI: Misbehavior and Ethics

In this episode of the Other Side of the Firewall podcast, hosts Ryan Williams Sr. and Shannon Tynes discuss the implications of AI misbehavior, particularly focusing on a recent incident involving Anthropic's AI model. They explore ethical concerns surrounding AI development, the potential for AI to exhibit fear, and the impact of AI on daily life and the workforce. The conversation stresses the importance of transparency and public awareness regarding AI risks while also reflecting on the hosts' personal experiences with AI in their professional lives.

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Ask A CISSP - Dr. Jimmy J. Davies Founder of Every.Black

In this episode, Dr. Jimmy J. Davies shares his inspiring journey from various jobs to becoming a successful entrepreneur and technology expert. He discusses the importance of mentorship, community support, and the evolution of technology in entrepreneurship. Dr. Davies emphasizes the significance of embracing AI and technology for future business success while also highlighting the legacy of Every.Black, an organization dedicated to supporting Black entrepreneurs. The conversation touches on personal insights, the importance of networking, and the need for a mindset shift toward production and ownership in the community.

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Until Next Time...

As we head into the weekend, take a moment to appreciate the small wins—whether it’s securing the last copy of a launch title, surviving a family staycation, or finally understanding how AI might “feel.” These conversations—on the podcast and beyond—aren’t just about tech, policy, or play. They’re about staying human in a digital world.

Until next week. Stay safe, stay secure, and stay plugged in (just not too much).

Ryan is a retired Air Force veteran who brings over 20 years of experience in network infrastructure, project management, and cybersecurity consulting to his current role as CEO of RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC. RAM Cyber is a premier governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) consultancy dedicated to supporting the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), federal agencies, and corporate entities. We specialize in delivering expert guidance to ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance cybersecurity postures.

Shannon, also a retired Air Force veteran, has more than two decades of expertise in network security and vulnerability management. He now serves as an Information System Security Officer (ISSO), where he continues to enhance national security protocols.

Chris is a Navy veteran with over 13 years in IT, information assurance, and risk management. His current role as a Senior Security Consultant focuses on vCISO and Cyber Assessments services enhancing data security and privacy for various organizations.

**The Other Side of the Firewall podcast is a product of RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC. RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC is a premier governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) consultancy dedicated to supporting the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), federal agencies, and corporate entities. We specialize in delivering expert guidance to ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance cybersecurity postures. RAM Cyber is pending SDVOSB, VOSB, and 8(a) certification by the SBA, underscoring our commitment to excellence and service.