Navigating Internal Politics and Personal Security: Insights and Advice

From the sun-kissed landscapes of Arizona to the digital defenses of cybersecurity, Jackie's career leap is nothing short of remarkable. Her story, rich with the twists of fate that took her from the financial sector to the front lines of IT security, paints a vivid picture of how diverse backgrounds can fortify the cybersecurity industry. Tune in and get inspired by Jackie's journey, from learning the ropes of Python to tackling cyber threats with a finance-savvy perspective.

Ever wondered how cybersecurity experts think outside the box? Our chat with Jackie dives into the welcoming arms of the security community, where at places like DEF CON, unconventional thinking is the secret weapon against cyber adversaries. Discover how varied professional experiences, like Jackie's in finance, are not just useful but essential in crafting ingenious security strategies. Plus, get a glimpse into the personal growth that comes with this territory, as we explore how hobbies like podcasting and improv comedy can sharpen your professional edge.

But it's not all about the code and firewalls; we also grapple with the hefty topics of diversity and ethics in tech development. As AI and hardware evolve, the conversation turns to the crucial role of inclusivity and accountability in crafting tools that serve everyone. Before we wrap up, we give a shout-out to Cribl and tease their innovative approach to data utilization. For an episode that's as enlightening as it is entertaining, don't miss our deep dive into the interplay between cybersecurity, personal evolution, and ethical technology.

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Embark on a journey through the labyrinth of cloud security with us as we welcome Corey O’Daniel, whose unexpected path from physics to DevOps offers a fresh perspective on the industry's complexities. The tech world is brimming with new products, leaving security professionals wrestling with integration and management within their existing security stacks. Corey O’Daniel and I discuss the evolution of the cloud, sharing our thoughts on streamlining services to lighten the load on developers. Our conversation spans the importance of simplifying cloud services, making them user-friendly and secure by default, and the need to encourage developers to weave security into their plethora of responsibilities.
 
 The second leg of our adventure with Corey O’Daniel unveils his serendipitous foray into technology, from data entry automation to HIPAA compliance sage. He sheds light on the acute talent gap in operations and security, a challenge that spurred the creation of his brainchild, Asdriver. We dissect the trials of scaling startups, the high turnover in tech roles, and the insatiable need for skilled professionals in this era of cloud migration. This dialogue isn't just about the challenges – it's a treasure trove of valuable insights for anyone navigating the startup landscape or considering a career pivot into the tech scene.
 
 Finally, we tackle the buzzword-infused terrain of the DevOps industry and the elusive quest for authentic DevOps practices. Platform engineering emerges as a beacon of hope, aiming to equip developers with self-service cloud infrastructure tools, and we illuminate how Corey O’Daniel's latest venture, MassDriver, is set to revolutionize the DevOps space. By blending architectural thinking with software design, Corey O’Daniel is on a mission to demystify CI pipelines and empower developers. Tune in for an episode that's not just an exchange of expertise but a wellspring of innovative solutions for the tech industry's rapid evolution.

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The fabric of family bonds intertwines with the digital threads of our era, as JB Benjamin the CEO of Kryotech, a man who's navigated the British family legal system to secure custody of his son, joins us to share his gripping tale. With a narrative that explores the influence of fatherhood and the societal shifts shaped by technology, JB Benjamin's insights turn from the heartwarming to the hilarious, as we unpack the oddities of online content moderation. His background in IT and security, rooted in the politically charged atmosphere of Birmingham during his youth. 
 
 Journeying through the various landscapes of JB Benjamin's past, we touch upon the ethical crossroads where technology and personal integrity meet. From his early programming days to the dark corridors of data exploitation, his experiences in sales, debt collection, and even a dash of filmmaking, JB Benjamin's pathway to higher education and pioneering efforts in adaptive AI resonate with the critical thinking needed in our digital age. As tech CEOs loom large over discussions of privacy and identity, JB Benjamin's candid reflections on these topics serve as a beacon for those navigating this brave new world.
 
 As we peer into the future, our conversation traverses the vast frontiers of government surveillance, data storage trends, and the revolutionary advances in space technology and quantum cryptography. We confront the pressing need for online data preservation and the archival challenges in the digital epoch. This episode is nothing short of a treasure map, guiding you through the intersection of technology, security, and human experience, with JB Benjamin as our experienced navigator.

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When life threw a curveball at Justin Rende, he caught it and threw it right back, catapulting himself into the cybersecurity stratosphere. Our latest episode features the captivating tale of how a chance challenge from a CEO turned into a flourishing business, as Justin Rende CEO of Rhymetec, our esteemed guest, recounts the twists and turns from IT beginnings to cybersecurity stardom. He doesn't just tell a story—he provides a roadmap for anyone with the audacity to dream big and the versatility to thrive in the ever-changing tech landscape.

The conversation takes an insightful turn as Justin Rende unravels the art of communication within the cybersecurity arena. He dissects the delicate dance of conveying the urgency and complexity of cybersecurity to clients who may not grasp the full technical scope. We get the inside scoop on how his company's strategic approach to transparency and remediation not only eases client concerns but also fosters an environment for informed decision-making. And for those thinking of starting their own firm, Justin lays bare the crucial role industry connections play in igniting the rocket of success.

Finally, we jet set to the future, where the cloud reigns supreme, and AI looms large over Silicon Valley. Justin Rende shares his insights on the tech industry's rapid evolution, keeping us on our toes about what's to come. He also sheds light on the inventive training and retention methods employed at Rhymetec, revealing the secret sauce to cultivating a workforce that's as passionate about technology as they are skilled. Plus, we take a peek into the making of a 'Virtual CISO Program', a concept proving instrumental for businesses big and small in achieving that gold standard in security compliance. Tune in for an episode that's about the journey, the destination, and the countless lessons learned along the way.

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Unlock the mysteries of Active Directory with our guest James Potter, an AD virtuoso, as we traverse the complex labyrinth of group nesting and consider the impending expertise exodus. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on the surprisingly robust security benefits of antiquated systems like Novel Network and the sticky challenges organizations like Blue Lemon face when trying to pivot away from deeply rooted AD setups. Our episode peels back the layers of legacy architecture, revealing how it intertwines with modern business operations and the tricky integration into present-day security frameworks.

Ever wondered about the Herculean task of managing cloud security for a behemoth infrastructure? James Potter and I share war stories from the trenches, including my hands-on experience refining a company's attack surface across a staggering 400,000 Azure accounts. We highlight the pitfalls developers may unknowingly create and dissect the enduring reliance on outdated NTLM authentication. Also, reminisce with me about the days at Microsoft when Active Directory was the unsung hero of businesses, and explore how cloud service lockdowns and the quest to avoid vendor lock-in are shaping today's tech strategies.

Concluding the episode, we navigate the emotional rollercoaster of imposter syndrome when shifting from a corporate behemoth to the entrepreneurial hustle of consulting. I divulge my personal battle with self-doubt and chart out the tactics that fortified my resolve and credibility. Wrapping up, we warmly extend an invitation to reach out to James Potter and the DSE Team for a helping hand or further dialogue, ensuring you leave not only equipped with newfound insights but also with the connections to help you thrive in the IT realm.

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Embark on a captivating odyssey through the world of IT and security with Russell, who takes us from his early days of computer curiosity to becoming a maverick in the tech field. With a narrative that underscores the power of following one's passion, Russell's tale is a testament to the notion that sometimes, the best education comes from hands-on experience and a relentless drive for knowledge rather than the traditional academic route. His story is not just inspiring but serves as a beacon for anyone at a career crossroads, showcasing the transformative potential of diving into what you love, full-time.

Prepare to have your mind expanded as we tackle the once-daunting domain of risk assessment, now revolutionized by the advent of machine learning. Russell shares how natural language processing is changing the game, turning compliance document analysis from a chore into a streamlined process. This conversation is a deep dive into the evolution of skepticism into necessity within the field, and a look at how overcoming language barriers is paramount in implementing security controls internationally. It's a blend of tech talk and practical insight, perfect for anyone intrigued by the intersection of cutting-edge technology and business operations.

Lastly, we lace up our skates and draw fascinating parallels between the grit of pro athletes and tech professionals. From discussing the hustle required in both arenas to the balancing act of personal and professional life in a startup environment, this episode is a playbook for success in the fast-paced world of technology. We also touch on why investing in oneself is the ultimate safeguard in an unpredictable job market. Whether you're a startup maven or a seasoned tech veteran, this episode is packed with strategies and stories to fuel your next big move.

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When life threw a curveball of illness and burnout my way, I found myself questioning everything, from the future of our podcast to my PhD studies. It's a crossroads moment that I'm unpacking in this candid episode, where I share the personal challenges that have tested my resolve and the transformative changes that might be on the horizon for us. Reflecting on the importance of passion, I'm considering shaking things up with unique guest perspectives and even contemplating stepping away from academia to focus more on what fires me up. You'll get a front-row seat to my thought process on how to reignite the spark in our conversations, and I'll even tease some exciting updates coming to our website designed to enhance your listening experience.

Amidst all this introspection, we'll also explore the essence of success and what defines the paths we choose. From tales of missed chances, like my friend's turn away from his video game development dream, to my strategic moves into virtual CISO roles and engaging discussions with tech giants like Amazon, this episode is packed with inspiration. It's a reminder to seize the day, value certifications, and strategically plan for the future. Plus, I touch on life's fulfilling aspects beyond work, like the joys and responsibilities of parenting and community involvement. Join me for an honest, thought-provoking session that will leave you motivated to embrace change and proactively shape your destiny.

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Embark on a transformative odyssey with Varun, a coding-challenged student turned technical tycoon, as he narrates his ascent from ethical hacking enthusiast to the founder of trailblazing enterprises. His tale is a beacon for anyone at the intersection of tech savvy and pioneering vision, emphasizing the crucial alignment between a founder and the market, as well as the delicate dance of transitioning from a specialist to a commanding leader. Varun's candid anecdotes and insights, gleaned from his times at Deloitte, KPMG, and Salesforce, evolve into a study on the meticulous craft of constructing a company from the ground up, hiring a team that embodies trust and diversity, and the pivotal role these elements play in the success and scaling of a startup.

With a spotlight on the dynamically shifting cybersecurity landscape, we navigate through the trials and triumphs of an industry grappling with cloud vulnerabilities and software supply chain threats. Varun's critique is unflinching as he discusses the balancing act between development speed and robust security practices. He peels back the layers on the opaque nature of vendor relations, advocating for transparency and education as cornerstones for better informed security decisions. Further enriching the dialogue, Varun unveils the ethos behind Endor Labs, his venture that aims to revolutionize software supply chain security and catalyze community engagement.

As we surge forward, the conversation turns to the future—where AI's role in cybersecurity promises enhancement, not replacement, of human ingenuity. Varun's forward-thinking perspective underscores the impending rise of software supply chain security and the enduring challenge of identity security. He casts a critical eye towards the interplay of regulations like S-BOMs in setting new standards, and concludes with an invitation to explore the community and resources at Endor Labs, positioning them as a nexus of technical excellence and educational outreach. You're about to tune into an episode that's not just a treasure trove of wisdom but a call to arms for the cybersecurity guardians of tomorrow.

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Embark on a journey through the dynamic landscape of technology with our special guest Dan, an IT virtuoso whose career trajectory is a testament to the field's limitless potential. Reflect upon the infancy of personal computing when unboxing a gateway PC was a momentous occasion, and discover how the role of IT professionals has evolved from hardware whisperers to pioneers of an automated future. Our conversation with Dan spans from the foundational importance of IT certifications to the pressing need for tech-savvy individuals to fill the shoes of retiring mainframe engineers, underscoring the tech industry's embrace of diverse talent and the imperative for continuous learning.

Imagine a world where healthcare professionals can focus entirely on patient care, unburdened by administrative tasks, thanks to the marvels of AI. In this episode, we dissect the monumental shifts AI is bringing to various sectors, especially healthcare, by providing real-time insights and streamlining operations. We delve into the spectrum of reactions from the medical community towards AI's growing presence and examine the changing landscape for IT professionals as automation surges forward. The narrative weaves through the importance of deep technical knowledge and how it remains relevant amidst rapid technological advancements.

As we wrap up our enlightening discussion, the spotlight turns to the essence of adaptability in tech careers and the excitement that comes with embracing change. From transitioning desktop management to mastering mobile device management, we highlight the critical nature of aligning one's skillset with the business world's evolving demands. Leadership within tech is also a crucial thread in our dialogue, as we explore the delicate balance a CISO must strike and the innovative strides EDB Postgres is making in the PostgreSQL community and cloud-managed services. Dan's story exemplifies how saying 'yes' to opportunities can open doors to growth and unforeseen paths, proving that agility in one's career is not just beneficial, but necessary for success.

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Embark on a captivating exploration of the IT and cybersecurity landscape with our distinguished guests, Andy and Hellmuth. Their unique narratives, from Hellmuth's pivot into the role of Siemens' global CIO to Andy's transition from the world of chemical physics to the fintech sector, are not just career chronicles. They serve as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between physical and digital security realms and the indispensable nature of cybersecurity in a world where connectivity is king. Their stories are a reminder that the roots of modern IT are deeply embedded in the hands-on experiences of tech's early days, and that these experiences continue to shape the future of the industry.

In a world where remote learning has become the norm post-COVID, we take a moment to reflect on the unmatched value of in-person mentorship in the tech industry. Our guests reminisce about the days of VAX and PDP systems and how guidance from pioneers like Bill Lang and Scott Davis honed their skills. They point out the potential shortcomings of the hybrid work model for professional growth, making a strong case for the irreplaceable impact of face-to-face interactions during the formative stages of a tech career. This conversation is a tribute to the artisans of the past and a call to preserve their legacy through mentorship.

To round off our discussion, Andy and Hellmuth delve into the art of advancing one's career by hiring individuals who bring a wealth of knowledge to the table and the importance of continuous learning in an industry that never stands still. They share wisdom on leadership, the strategic navigation of career risks, and the cultivation of diverse teams. Furthermore, the journey from traditional web proxies to the pioneering frontiers of Zero Trust security is unpacked, revealing not only the challenges but also the victories that come with tech innovation. Join us for this session, brimming with the rich experience, insights, and forward-thinking needed to traverse the dynamic ebb and flow of IT and cybersecurity.

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