Welcome back to Systems with Laura, the podcast where we explore the systems, strategies, and conversations that help businesses grow with clarity and intention.
Today I'm joined by Tom Schultz, a cybersecurity expert who helps organizations strengthen their security without unnecessary complexity or fear. His work focuses on making cybersecurity practical, helping businesses protect their systems, data, and people through simple processes that anyone can implement.
Because the reality is this: Most entrepreneurs invest in CRMs, project management tools, automation, and AI, but very few stop to ask one critical question:
Who actually has access to all of it?
Former employees. Contractors. Freelancers. Virtual assistants. Shared passwords. Old accounts nobody remembers creating. These overlooked details are some of the biggest security risks facing small businesses today, yet they rarely get the attention they deserve.
In this episode, we explore:
- Why access management is one of the biggest cybersecurity blind spots for small businesses
- How to know exactly who has access to your business systems
- What founders should do when an employee, contractor, or freelancer leaves
- The pros and cons of password managers and how to choose the right one
- Whether tools like Keeper, LastPass, 1Password, and Bitwarden are actually safe
- Why multi-factor authentication is one of the simplest ways to improve your security
- The difference between SMS authentication, authenticator apps, and security keys
- When you actually need a VPN, and when you probably don't
- The cybersecurity tools founders often overspend on
- The simple security habits that deliver the biggest return with the least effort
This conversation proves that good cybersecurity isn't about becoming an IT expert; it's about building systems that protect your business as it grows. With a few practical habits and the right tools, you can dramatically reduce your risk without adding unnecessary complexity.
Whether you're a solopreneur, agency owner, consultant, or growing a small team, this episode will help you build stronger operational systems, protect your business assets, and make sure you're the only one holding the keys.
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🔗 Connect with Tom Schultz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-2r0-schultz/
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🤝 Episode Sponsor: Proprium
At Proprium, we help service-based businesses replace chaos with clarity by designing operational systems that support sustainable growth, from CRM implementation and project management to automation, documentation, and business operations.
Book a 15-minute discovery call:
👉 https://connect.proprium.agency/discovery-call
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🧠 Stay Connected with Laura Plantak
Website: https://www.lauraplantak.com
Newsletter: https://lauraplantak.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraplantak
