The Pure Report Podcast

In an era where data breaches cost organizations millions and threaten business continuity daily, the intersection of data storage and security has never been more critical. Hear from two industry experts: Nolan Necoechea, Product Marketing leader from Varonis, and returning guest Jason Walker from Pure Storage. Together, we unpack how intelligent data classification, threat detection, and automated remediation are changing the cybersecurity landscape – and why the foundation of effective security starts with how your data is stored and classified. This episode takes listeners from Varonis's fascinating origin story (involving disappearing high-resolution ocean floor images) to the cutting-edge of modern cybersecurity practices. Nolan breaks down Varonis's comprehensive platform that creates visibility and control over data access, while Jason explains why Pure Storage provides the ideal foundation for these security solutions. Learn how real-time threat detection, user behavior analytics, and automated remediation aren't just buzzwords but essential components of modern data protection strategy. As AI-powered threats continue to evolve, this conversation offers practical insights into how organizations can stay ahead of bad actors through strategic partnerships and integrated solutions. Discover why streamlined SecOps and robust data classification are becoming table stakes for business continuity, and get a preview of what's next in the Varonis-Pure partnership. Whether you're a CISO, IT administrator, or business leader concerned about data protection, this episode delivers actionable intelligence on safeguarding your organization's most valuable asset: its data.

Discover great management capabilities with Pure SE Scott Nalawaniec, a former Pure customer and now a seasoned Systems Engineer from Portland. We dive deep into the world of Pure Storage's management platform, Pure1, and look at Scott's 5 favorite capabilities that make managing arrays a breeze. We first reflect on our recent Sales Kickoff, and then Scott shares his expertise on simplicity and the evergreen nature of non-disruptive upgrades that have become foundational to Pure's offerings. Then we jump into Scott's favorite management and automation features - from VM Analytics that helped Scott identify problematic virtual machines across 17 appliances as a customer to the game-changing Self-Service Updates that have transformed how customers approach array updates. Scott takes us on a journey through Pure1's evolution, highlighting the powerful Appliance Genealogy feature that maps hardware histories like "a giant family tree" and Performance and Capacity analytics that provide crucial trending data. We'll also explore emerging capabilities in sustainability monitoring and the detailed Session and Audit Log that recently helped a customer track a potential security threat. Scott's enthusiasm for Test Drive as a demonstration tool rounds out this comprehensive look at the latest management capabilities. Whether you're a Pure Storage veteran or just curious about next-generation storage management, Scott's firsthand experiences offer valuable takeaways for IT professionals at every level. This episode showcases how Pure1 continues to innovate while maintaining the simplicity and innovation that users have come to expect from Pure Storage solutions.

In this episode of the Pure Report, we welcome Valerie Harrison, Principal Technologist at Pure Storage, for an in-depth exploration of technology transformation in cloud, AI, and the automotive industry. Valerie shares her fascinating career journey from Google to Pure Storage, revealing how her diverse experiences have shaped her perspective on cloud adoption, AI implementation, and the critical role of effective data management. The conversation provides valuable insights into when cloud solutions make strategic sense and how companies can avoid vendor lock-in while still leveraging the best technologies for their specific use cases.

Our discussion takes a deep dive into how AI is revolutionizing the automotive sector, examining the divide between traditional approaches and new subscription-based models. Valerie illuminates how car manufacturers are utilizing unstructured data growth, synthetic data creation, and telemetry information to enhance customer experiences and develop advanced features. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how storage and data management serve as the common thread to success in these initiatives, with specific examples of how Pure Storage is enabling manufacturers and suppliers to manage massive data requirements for everything from factory operations to customer-facing innovations.

The episode concludes with a thoughtful examination of women's experiences in the tech industry, with Valerie candidly discussing barriers to career development and the importance of representation. She shares practical advice from her talk at a Google conference about getting your voice heard in intimidating environments and discusses her mentorship work with a local university. This segment offers valuable perspectives on addressing skills gaps in tech through greater inclusion of talented women, particularly in underrepresented areas like cybersecurity, and highlights initiatives like Pure Storage's Women's ERG that are working to create positive change.

Make time to take an extraordinary deep dive into the complex world of public sector technology leadership, featuring Jim Weaver, a veteran Chief Information Officer with an impressive track record across multiple state governments and now Pure's National Strategic Advisor for Public Sector. Our conversation unpacks the critical challenges and transformative opportunities facing IT leaders in an era of unprecedented technological complexity, from cybersecurity threats to the revolutionary potential of artificial intelligence in government operations. Drawing from Jim's extensive experience leading technology strategies in North Carolina, the state of Washington, and in Pennsylvania, Weaver offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on how modern governments are architecting resilient, secure, and innovative digital infrastructures. We examine the intricate balance between risk management and technological advancement, revealing the strategic thinking required to protect sensitive public data while simultaneously leveraging cutting-edge technologies to improve government services and operational efficiency. Beyond technical insights, this episode provides a compelling narrative about leadership, innovation, and the human element of technology. Develop an understanding of how dedicated IT professionals like Jim Weaver are working to safeguard critical infrastructure, navigate complex cybersecurity landscapes, and drive meaningful digital transformation in the public sector. From ransomware prevention to AI implementation, Weaver shares candid stories and strategic insights that demystify the high-stakes world of government technology management.

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, traditional defense mechanisms are proving increasingly inadequate against sophisticated cyber and ransomware attacks. The latest collaboration between Pure Storage and Superna represents a groundbreaking approach to data protection, introducing the revolutionary concept of CyberStorage - an active defense strategy that goes beyond reactive measures to prevent cyber threats at their inception.

Featuring insights from Jason Walker of Pure Storage and Alex Hesterberg, CEO of Superna and former Pure pre-IPO employee, the conversation provides a roadmap for organizations seeking to fortify their cyber defenses. This podcast explores the critical gap between traditional data protection and modern cybersecurity, offering listeners an in-depth look at how innovative technologies can strengthen an organization's security posture. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and automated response mechanisms, Pure Storage and Superna are redefining how businesses can protect their most valuable asset: their data. The discussion delves into practical solutions that not only block potential attacks but also provide comprehensive analytics and recovery capabilities.

From understanding the devastating impacts of ransomware to exploring cutting-edge technologies like FlashBlade and advanced detection capabilities, this podcast offers listeners a strategic perspective on protecting their digital infrastructure in an increasingly hostile cyber environment.