Do We Belong Here? (In The Cyber World)

Learn more about Hitch Partners: https://www.hitchpartners.com/

Stream the Do We Belong Here documentary on Youtube.

Find us on social media: @DoWeBelongPod

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Roles

03:00 Michael Piacente's Journey to Hitch Partners

06:11 The Unique Approach of Hitch Partners

08:57 Diversity and Inclusion in Recruitment

11:45 The Changing Cybersecurity Landscape

14:53 Navigating the CISO Job Market

19:01 The Future of CISO Roles

23:08 Impact of AI on Cybersecurity Roles

28:31 Understanding Candidate Expectations and Interview Dynamics

31:10 Preparing Candidates for Cybersecurity Interviews

35:32 The Importance of Mentorship and Support for Women

38:20 Hiring Mistakes in Pursuit of Diversity

44:05 Trends and Challenges for Women in Cybersecurity

52:36 The Role of Allies in Promoting Diversity

This episode of Do We Belong Here is part of an exciting episode swap with our friends at No Password Required, a podcast dedicated to proving that there’s a place for everyone in the world of cybersecurity.

In this special crossover, No Password Required hosts Jack Clabby and Kayley Melton sit down with Maretta Morovitz, the Engage Lead at MITRE, where she simplifies the planning of adversary engagement for cyber defenders. Maretta likens her cyber defense work to the movie Home Alone, setting a series of traps for the cyber adversary akin to those of Kevin McCallister.

Maretta began her career at MITRE with an internship, where she met her mentor, Dr. Stan Barr, the MITRE Engage chief scientist: “He was always there to pull me out if I was floundering and drowning, but he gave me the space I needed to make mistakes, learn from them, and figure out how to not make them again.”

Despite having a computer scientist father, Maretta discovered her passion for the industry only in college. After observing a friend who was a computer science major, she found that maybe her dad (and computer science) were cooler than she had initially thought. Maretta also shares on the podcast the importance of her Boston roots and her unique connection to John and Abigail Adams.

To kick off the show, Jack Clabby from Carlton Fields, P.A., and Kayley Melton from KnowBe4 discuss Kenya’s efforts to improve national cybersecurity to protect its fast-growing digital economy. They also cover how the United States and the private sector are contributing to the Kenyan model for digital transformation in Africa, particularly through a dynamic digital ecosystem known as the ‘Silicon Savannah.’

Find Maretta on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjmorovitz/

Stream the No Password Required Podcast: https://cyberflorida.org/pod/

Happy Holidays from the Do We Belong Here family! 💛

As we close out 2024, we’re taking a moment to pause, reflect, and connect on a deeper level. In this bonus episode, Tashya, Pam, and Sarina open up about the personal and professional growth they’ve experienced this year, sharing lessons learned, challenges faced, and reasons to be grateful.

To our incredible listeners: thank you for being part of this journey. Your support means everything, and we can’t wait to return in 2025 with more stories, insights, and proof that we do belong here in the cyber world. 💛

Stream the Do We Belong Here documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWZhknfuVlQ&t=757s

Follow us on social media: @DoWeBelongPod

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Holiday Reflections

02:58 Navigating Personal Challenges and Emotions

06:01 Family Dynamics and Support

09:08 Intentional Living and Decluttering

12:07 Growth and Accountability

15:09 Savoring Life's Moments

18:18 Celebrating Achievements and Growth

21:18 Navigating Personal Transitions

23:28 Family Support and Personal Milestones

25:56 Embracing Change and New Opportunities

26:10 Looking Ahead: Intentions for the Future

30:00 Trusting Yourself and Personal Development

33:00 Striving for Betterment in Life

36:30 Gratitude and Community Engagement

In this episode of Do We Belong Here, Tashya Denose and Pam Lindemoen dive into the evolving landscape of the cyber industry over the past several years. They discuss the impact of the global pandemic on remote work and the shifts that have followed, the ongoing challenges between job openings and the availability of qualified candidates, and the potential long-term effects on the future of the industry and its professionals. They also share personal updates from the past few months, reminding us that with community and good friends, we always have a place where we belong.

Stream the Do We Belong Here documentary on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl

Follow us on social media: @DoWeBelongPod

Learn more about Cyber Florida: cyberflorida.org

In this special edition episode of Do We Belong Here, hosts Tashya Denose and Pam Lindemoen dive deep into the world of social engineering with the People Hacker herself, Jenny Radcliffe. Discover the thrilling and challenging aspects of Jenny's career, from evading security systems to teaching the importance of resilience and psychological savvy in cybersecurity. Jenny shares personal anecdotes that demonstrate the power of persistence and curiosity, and provides practical advice for anyone looking to thrive in the demanding field of cybersecurity. Tune in to learn how overcoming adversity and strategic thinking can lead to success in both personal and professional realms.

Find the People Hacker: https://x.com/jenny_radcliffe

Find us on social media: @DoWeBelongPod

Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl

Learn more about the WiCyS Conference: cyberflorida.org

Learn more about Cyber Florida: cyberflorida.org

Loren Rosario-Maldonado is a trained culturist, executive career coach, and keynote speaker, and the best-selling author of Becoming the Change. As a culturist and self-defined “rebel with a cause,” Loren specializes in examining how culture shapes everything we do—from the way we think and act to how we interact with the world around us.

In this episode, Loren joins Tashya Denose and Pam Lindemoen to explore the crucial role of emotional intelligence in leadership and why recognizing the multi-dimensional nature of individuals is essential, particularly in industries where human emotions are often overlooked.

Loren also shares her top tips and strategies as an executive coach, discussing the unique challenges women face in the business world and offering advice on how to advance to the next level in your career.

Find Loren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenrosariomaldonado/

Listen to C.H.O.I.C.E. Chats: https://www.lorenrosario.com/thechoicechatspodcast

Find us on social media: @DoWeBelongPod

Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl

Learn more about Cyber Florida: cyberflorida.org

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:38 Understanding Cultural Intelligence

06:03 The Power of Cultural Intelligence

08:06 Imposter Syndrome and Women in Leadership

12:11 Embracing the Rebel with a Cause

16:32 The Choice Framework: Embracing Change and Growth

18:28 Challenges Faced by Women in Leadership

21:31 Societal Expectations and Gender Roles

27:27 The Importance of Perspective and Learning

31:40 The Choice Chats: Highlighting Bold Choices

32:37 Understanding Cultural Intelligence in Real Life

37:21 Empowering Leaders to Shape the Future

40:18 Keynote Speaking and Impactful Messages

43:44 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this brand-new segment of the Do We Belong Here podcast, producer Sarina Gandy brings you "Soul of Cyber," where she sits down with influential figures in the cybersecurity world to uncover the essence of who they are beyond their professional achievements.

Join Sarina at the 2024 WiCyS conference for an intimate conversation with Jen Easterly, the Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Jen is a combat veteran with over two decades of service in intelligence and cyber operations, a dedicated mother, and an avid Rubik’s cube enthusiast. Her role in the cyber industry has been pivotal in creating transformative policies and fostering a more secure digital landscape.

In this episode, Sarina and Jen dive into:

* The impact of being the only woman at the start of her career on her leadership style, including the value of military discipline and the importance of creating effective, diverse teams

* Discovering and living your Ikigai, the Japanese concept of "reason for being"

* Human resilience and Jen’s personal journey of testing her limits and overcoming challenges

* The necessity for leaders to build teams with psychological safety

Tune in to gain unique insights into Jen Easterly's life, leadership, and the soul of cybersecurity!

In this special episode recorded live at the 2024 WiCyS conference, Tashya Denose and Pam Lindemoen sit down with Beth Hawthorne, a seasoned professor and cybersecurity program director at Rider University. Beth stands out as a key figure in the cybersecurity community, having attended all ten years of the WiCyS conference and significantly shaping its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Her influence is particularly felt through her participation in the annual first-year panel, where she helps conference newcomers feel at home.

In tjis episode, Beth shares her extensive academic journey and her unwavering commitment to diversifying the field of cybersecurity. From being one of the few women in tech at the start of her career to mentoring the next generation of cyber professionals, Beth's story is a beacon of inspiration for anyone looking to make their mark in cybersecurity.

Connect with Beth on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-k-hawthorne-phd-a2a70025

Watch the podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl

Find us on social media - @DoWeBelongPod

Learn more about Cyber Florida - cyberflorida.org

Chapters

00:00 Beth Hawthorne's Background and Education

02:14 Beth's History with the WiCyS Conference

03:36 The Growth and Diversity of WiCyS

05:00 The Excitement and Constant Change in the Cybersecurity Field

06:16 The Importance of Being Comfortable with Discomfort

09:29 Creating a Sense of Belonging and Support in the Cybersecurity Community

12:30 The Unique Vibe and Inclusivity of WiCyS

13:26 The Growth and Corporate Sponsorship of WiCyS

15:28 The Visionary Leadership of WiCyS

19:49 Buckle Up for an Amazing Journey in Cyberspace

Andrea Frost is a Senior Software Security Engineer at Dell Technologies and has been working in the cyber industry for the past 10 years. In this in-person episode recorded at the 2024 WiCyS Conference, Andrea sat down with Tashya Denose and Pam Lindemoen to talk about her journey from working on the ski slopes in the winters and volunteering as a fireman in the summers to becoming a leading woman in cybersecurity. She tells the story of how attending her first WiCyS conference 9 years ago changed the entire trajectory of her life and career, and touches on the lifecycle of the WiCyS conference and the impact it is making on the women of this industry. Finally, she deep dives into the inception of the WiCyS Career Growth Hub and its role in supporting industry newcomers.

Find Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jovianna-gonzalez/

Watch the podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl

Find us on social media - @DoWeBelongPod

Learn more about Cyber Florida - cyberflorida.org

Jovianna Gonzalez is the CEO and founder of Digital Forensics, the first Hispanic-owned women’s digital forensics and cybersecurity company in the US. In this episode, Tashya Denose and Pam Lindemoen talk to Jovianna about her journey from aspiring attorney to digital forensics expert, highlighting the importance of being open to new opportunities and having an investigative mindset. She emphasizes the significance of allies and mentors in her career and the need for ethical practices in the field of digital forensics. Jovianna also discusses the importance of mental health and work-life balance, sharing strategies she implements within her own team to ensure that each of her employees is set up for success. 

Find Jovianna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jovianna-gonzalez/

Learn more about Digital Forensics Now: http://www.digitalforensicsnow.com/

Find us on social media - @DoWeBelongPod

Learn more about Cyber Florida - cyberflorida.org

Watch the podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 

03:22 Interview with Jovianna Gonzalez: From Aspiring Attorney to Digital Forensics Expert 

14:11 Lessons Learned and Overcoming Challenges 

28:01 Recognitions and Reflections 

31:35 Balancing Multiple Roles and Prioritizing Mental Health 

37:29 Ethical Practices in Digital Forensics 

40:58 Lessons Learned as a CEO and the Importance of Boundaries 

42:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Takeaways

Be open to new opportunities and have an investigative mindset 

Allies and mentors play a crucial role in career development 

Ethical practices are essential in the field of digital forensics 

Prioritize mental health and work-life balance 

Flexibility and adaptability are key in running a successful company

Bianca Lewis, aka BiaSciLab, is quickly becoming a household name in the cybersecurity world, and for good reason. At just 17 years old, Bia is not only a prodigious hacker but also a five-time DEFCON speaker and the visionary CEO behind Girls Who Hacker organization. In this live session recorded at the 2024 Sunshine Cyber Conference, Pam Lindemoen and special guest host Dr. Candi Ring delve into Bia's extraordinary journey through the cybersecurity over the past decade. Together, we explore the boundless potential of her generation in propelling the cybersecurity landscape into uncharted territories. Tune in as we uncover the driving force behind Bia's rise and the invaluable lessons her story imparts about passion, purpose, and the transformative power of new perspectives.

Follow Bia: instagram.com/biascilab/

Learn more about Girls Who Hack: girlswhohack.com/

Find us on social media - @DoWeBelongPod

Learn more about Cyber Florida - cyberflorida.org

Watch the podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl

Mari Galloway, CEO of the Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu, is a woman whose magnetic presence ignites every room she enters. Her power radiates in an undeniable way through her hair, attire, and unwavering confidence, and the Do We Belong Here team wanted to know - did her light always shine this bright or did she work to cultivate it over time?

In this episode of Do We Belong Here, Tashya Denose and Pam Lindemoen speak with Mari about how she got “stuck” in the cyber world, eventually leading her to working in Vegas with the biggest casinos in the world. As they navigate through her experiences, the trio reflects on the adage that what happens in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas, especially in the realm of cybersecurity.

The discussion explores Mari’s evolution of self-confidence as she reflects on the challenges of being a trailblazing black woman in a predominantly male-dominated field. They also dive deep into Mari’s chapter of “Securing Our Future” by the Black Women in Cyber Collective and explore the pivotal role of finding your community in fostering resilience and self-empowerment.

Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu - womenscyberjutsu.org

Connect with Mari on LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/themarigalloway/

Find us on social media - @DoWeBelongPod

Learn more about Cyber Florida - cyberflorida.org

Watch the podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl

Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) is a non-profit organization that brings women together to celebrate and foster their passion for cybersecurity. In this episode of Do We Belong Here, Tashya and Pam speak with some of the incredible women behind the WiCyS organization to learn all about their mission of building a strong gender-diverse cybersecurity workforce and how they are accomplishing that. You’ll hear from Dr. Ambareen Siraj, WiCyS founder, Dr. Janell Straach, WiCyS Chair of the Board, and Lynn Dohm, WiCyS Executive Director about the power of community, what it means to actually be an ally, and why retaining and recruiting women into this field is so important.

Register for the 2024 Virtual WiCyS Conference -www.wicys.org/events/wicys-2024/wicys-virtual/

Find us on social media – @DoWeBelongPod

Learn more about Cyber Florida - cyberflorida.org

Check out the People Hacker by Jenny Radcliffe - humanfactorsecurity.co.uk/speaking/

Dr. Fatou Sankare is an expert in data science and ethical hacking. A woman who is passionate about cybersecurity and education, Dr. Sankare holds her doctorate in cybersecurity and is also the founder of Datacation, a growing organization that prioritizes bringing cybersecurity to marginalized communities.

Dr. Sankare is also passionate about spreading cyber awareness and proving that everybody has a place in the cyber world, regardless of background, technical skills, or access to education.

In this episode of Do We Belong Here, Dr. Sankare joins Tashya Denose and Pam Lindemoen to discuss her unusual journey from political science to cybersecurity and examines the connections between the two fields. She also dives deep into the experiences that she’s had as a young Muslim black woman in cybersecurity, shedding light on the moments where she feels she has to wear her credentials on her sleeve just to prove that she belongs. Tashya, Pam, and Dr. Sankare also explore our annual tradition of choosing a word to embody this year and how they hope to grow in 2024.

“If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” - Michael Enzi

Datacation - mydatacation.com

Connect with Dr. Sankare on Instagram - @TheeDataEnthusiast

Find us on social media - @DoWeBelongPod

Learn more about Cyber Florida - cyberflorida.org

Watch the podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl