Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious

Cyber Resilience in the Quantum Age - Adapting Policies, Teams, and Technology

Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious

Show Notes

In this enlightening episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by Benita Zazueta, a leader in quantum-safe initiatives at IBM and a doctoral candidate exploring the intersection of quantum risk and supply chain resilience. Together, the team tackles the looming threat posed by fault tolerant quantum computers—those machines capable of cracking today's encryption and altering the balance of cybersecurity. Benita Zazueta breaks down complex concepts like “harvest now, decrypt later,” and explains how business leaders, not just researchers and engineers, must prepare for a quantum future. The conversation covers practical strategies for organizations to assess vulnerabilities, foster quantum talent, and transform their security posture without causing panic. Whether you’re a seasoned technologist, a curious executive, or just starting your quantum journey, this episode delivers actionable insights, fascinating anecdotes, and critical leadership lessons from the front lines of quantum innovation. Tune in and discover how to build resilience, not just protection, in the age of quantum breakthroughs! Links IBM Quantum – https://www.ibm.com/quantum IBM Quantum Safe – https://www.ibm.com/quantum/quantum-safe Qiskit – https://qiskit.org

Time Stamps 00:00 Quantum Threats and Business Decisions 05:34 "Harvest Now, Decrypt Later" 09:53 "Impending Data Decryption Risks" 12:34 Cyber Resilience Against Future Threats 14:48 Preparing for Quantum Encryption Shift 17:59 Quantum-Safe Supply Chain Security 22:42 Quantum Computing Misconceptions Debunked 26:48 "Internet-Dependent Smart Bed Issues" 27:58 "Driving Innovation Through Core Values" 31:23 "Explore Free Quantum Learning Resources" 36:42 "Application Risk Assessment Process" 39:51 "Securing Supply Chain Software" 41:47 "Quantum Computing's Impact and Race" 48:02 "Ethical Hacking in Perspective" 52:10 "Aerospace Engineer's Flight Story" 55:49 "Quantum Podcasts: Breaking the Mold"

More from Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious

Sep 9, 2026

Welcome to another episode of Impact Quantum, where we explore the cutting edge of quantum computing and emerging technologies reshaping our world. Today, co-hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Vivek Raghunathan, co-founder of Xscape Photonics, to delve into the revolutionary intersection of photonics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. From comparing the astounding power efficiency of the human brain to today's AI clusters, to discussing how multicolor lasers could unlock massive advancements in data center performance and sustainability, Vivek shares how his company is tackling the growing power demands of AI by reimagining the future of hardware. We’ll hear why the traditional focus on faster processors is giving way to a new era where the speed and efficiency of inter-chip communication—powered by light, not electricity—becomes the key to smarter, greener computing. Tune in as we decode the transformation of data center architecture, explore the practical and philosophical implications of merging photonics and electronics, and peek into how today’s innovations lay the foundation for tomorrow’s quantum breakthroughs. Whether you’re a seasoned technologist or just quantum-curious, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss! Links Vivek on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivek-raghunathan-8228913a/ XScape Photonics - https://www.xscapephotonics.com/ Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/NcXWZyPuyqE

Sep 1, 2026

In this episode, co-host Candace Cahootie sits down with Christopher Turk, a leading expert in post-quantum cryptography at KPMG, to unpack the pressing issues facing organizations as quantum technology inches ever closer to breaking conventional encryption. Together, they dive into why Washington, D.C. has become a unique hotbed for quantum security, how government mandates are shaping adoption, and why the real challenge in post-quantum cryptography may lie more in asset identification than in technology itself. You'll hear firsthand accounts of red teaming quantum systems, debates on collaboration across the industry, and practical advice for both regulated and non-regulated sectors. Whether you're a quantum expert or "quantum curious," this episode will give you fresh insights on preparing for a crypto-future—where today's paranoia is tomorrow's best practice. Links Christopher on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-t-9a259783/ Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/AP0vKL-2J20

Aug 27, 2026

In this episode, we're joined by Rachel Noek, Senior Research Scientist and Technical Program Manager at the Duke Quantum Center. Rachel shares her journey from industry to academia, her experiences developing photonic kits for inspiring the next generation, and her insights on the rapidly evolving landscape of quantum computing. We dive into the unique challenges of project management in deep tech environments, the essential collaboration between academia and industry, and what the future holds for quantum technologies. Rachel also discusses how hands-on learning can demystify complex concepts, why the quantum field needs talent beyond physicists, and her vision for a quantum-enabled future. Whether you're quantum-curious or an industry veteran, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom about the quantum revolution Links Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKpbvjPnmT0 Rachel Noek on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-noek-qc/

Aug 4, 2026

In today’s episode, we sit down with Severyn Balaniuk, a research software developer at 1QBit, whose journey from reading "Programming the Universe" in high school to contributing to quantum advancements provides a unique insider’s perspective. We’ll explore the real relationship between AI and quantum, why networking and communication matter just as much as coding, and which quantum breakthroughs may be on the horizon. From debates on the future of programming languages like Julia, to insights into government-backed quantum corridors, open source’s pivotal role, and the biggest misconceptions about quantum computing, this episode offers a candid reality check in a field defined by both promise and hype. Whether you’re a curious student or a seasoned developer, tune in to discover what it really means to build the future—one quantum leap at a time. Links Severyn on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/severynbalaniuk/ Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qf4rw0fFn4o

Jul 20, 2026

This week, Candace and Frank are back, diving into a summer that's hot in more ways than one—with quantum breakthroughs, climate conversations, and tech trends heating up worldwide. The duo unpacks the latest global developments in quantum computing, including the U.S. government's renewed commitment, developments in Canada, Europe, and Israel, and Microsoft's milestone in qubit lifetime. They examine the growing intersection of quantum with AI, data centers, and national security, plus the evolving landscape of data infrastructure and the societal impacts of new technology. From venture capital shifts and startup culture to quantum’s role in drug discovery and cyber defense, this episode connects the dots between today's tech headlines and the world of tomorrow. Whether you’re quantum curious or a seasoned pro, get ready for insightful discussion, international updates, and a look at how quantum is shaping our future. Time Stamps 00:00 Portable air conditioning basics 03:59 New job at ClearML announcement 08:51 AI's Role in Upcoming Elections 09:53 High power line concerns 13:24 Data centers in Loudoun County 18:36 Microsoft's quantum computing breakthrough 20:19 Viral movie clip memes 24:36 Venture Capital's Role in Tech 26:35 Explaining data potential with chess analogy 30:38 Tech impact on global stability 35:49 Quantum podcast and cosmic connections

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