How are you spending your lockdown time? Do you spend more time trying to find a movie or boxset to binge than actually watching anything? A mobile app called Stardust asks you to rate your fave shows and movies and will provide you with a personalized selection of content. Stardust is also a mobile community of film & TV fanatics sharing video reactions to movies and shows. Think of it as a social network-oriented around entertainment; it also drives movie attendance and TV tune-in by encouraging discussion amongst friends and fans. If you love movies and TV and spend most of the time talking about movies and TV, the Stardust App might offer you a way to entertain and connect with like-minded souls. Stardust was born out of CEO Derek Forbes’ burning desire to discuss every episode of Game of Thrones in deep detail immediately after it aired. Observing a lack of social platforms dedicated to providing such an experience, he designed a niche social platform specifically for movie and TV-lovers. But I wanted to learn more about the tech behind Stardust. Ashley Fauset shares how Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are both growing at a rapid pace within the entertainment industry. Websites, mobile apps, and streaming services alike are ingesting information around users’ preferences, usage habits likes, and dislikes. I learn how Stardust is using technology to bring the discussion of movies and shows to life, amplified with the power of mobile, video, and social media. We also discuss the importance of user-generated content in social media platforms and how they will continue to leverage technology to drive Stardust forward. ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8b6oyCxLG2k

Are we truly prepared to defend our critical infrastructures against cyber threats? In today’s episode of Tech Talks Daily, we're joined by Irfan Shakeel, the VP of Training & Certification Services at OPSWAT, a pivotal player in cybersecurity for critical environments. OPSWAT has recently announced a commendable $10 million scholarship program aimed at addressing the urgent global need for 4 million more cybersecurity professionals. This significant initiative seeks to fill the widening skills gap within the critical infrastructure sectors through targeted training in both Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT). During our conversation, Irfan will delve into the motivations behind this transformative scholarship program, which is not just a response to academic needs but also aligns with the U.S. Executive Orders and the National Cybersecurity Strategy. This initiative underscores the importance of enhancing our cybersecurity measures and fortifying the workforce tasked with protecting our critical infrastructures. Listeners will gain insights into the practical aspects of the training offered, focusing on hands-on learning experiences designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills to address current and emerging threats. Irfan will also discuss the criteria for selecting candidates for this program, emphasizing the commitment to fostering a robust pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals. Additionally, we will explore the vital role of public-private partnerships in closing the cyber skills gap and how OPSWAT's collaborative efforts with academic institutions and government agencies are crucial to this endeavor. As we navigate these discussions, one can’t help but ponder: how well are public and private sectors aligned in their efforts to safeguard our vital systems against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats? Join us, and let’s unravel the complexities of cybersecurity training and workforce development together. What are your thoughts on the effectiveness of such large-scale educational initiatives in combating cybersecurity threats? ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRhAL-7hJCo