In the Season 4 finale of The Cybersecurity Mentors Podcast, Steve and John wrap up an incredible season with a special listener-driven Q&A. The episode opens with a recap of Episodes 1–7, revisiting key lessons on soft skills, leadership, resume pitfalls, networking strategies, and inspiring career journeys. From there, they dive into your most pressing questions about breaking into cybersecurity — from whether college or certifications matter most, to the projects that truly prove you’r...
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In the Season 4 finale of The Cybersecurity Mentors Podcast, Steve and John wrap up an incredible season with a special listener-driven Q&A. The episode opens with a recap of Episodes 1–7, revisiting key lessons on soft skills, leadership, resume pitfalls, networking strategies, and inspiring career journeys. From there, they dive into your most pressing questions about breaking into cybersecurity — from whether college or certifications matter most, to the projects that truly prove you’r...
Craig Sheffield shares his unconventional journey transitioning from teaching English in Taiwan to pursuing a cybersecurity career, highlighting how his background in music and audio engineering provided unexpected transferable skills. He also shares his candid experiences with the TryHackMe Security Analyst Level 1 certification. Episode Resources: Craig’s LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheffieldcraig/Craig’s Github page with his project breakdown - https://github.com/id...
In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked yet fundamental importance of learning how to "build" systems, networks, and applications for cybersecurity professionals. Coining the philosophy "Build, Secure, Hack," we explore why hands-on experience in building provides an essential foundation for effectively securing and ultimately understanding how to hack those environments. We discuss the pitfalls of skipping these foundational IT skills, highlight the immense value of setting up a ...
In this episode, we talk with Doug Burks, founder and CEO of Security Onion Solutions. He shares his journey from computer enthusiast to cybersecurity company founder and how he's helping defenders catch bad guys through accessible network security monitoring tools. We also discuss how important setting up your home lab is as a crucial learning environment for security professionals at all levels. Security Onion Solutions https://securityonionsolutions.com/ Doug Burks – Link...
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of cyber deception—from classic honeypots to canary tokens and more. Learn how deception isn't just a defense tactic, but a skill every aspiring cybersecurity analyst should master. We'll explore real-world stories, ethical considerations, and how strategic deception can give you the upper hand against attackers. Episode Resources: Offensive Countermeasures BookCanary TokensHoneyport - Powershell ScriptCheck out our new merch shop! https://t...
This episode delves into the current state of the cybersecurity job market and offers essential strategies for breaking into the industry. Kelly Belding, an experienced IT recruiter, discusses hiring trends, the importance of relevant skills and certifications, and the significant role of networking for career advancement. • Overview of the changing IT job market dynamics • Discussion on entry-level versus mid-senior level positions • Importance of skill sets and certifications i...
In this episode we chat with Daniel, who is just starting on his journey in cybersecurity. We work to give him guidance, direction, and a roadmap for landing his first job. • What sparked Daniel's interest in cybersecurity • Current job enhances troubleshooting skills and problem-solving mindset • Pursuing cybersecurity certifications one step at a time • Importance of framing experiences effectively on resumes • Networking and social media presence as tools for...
This episode focuses on essential skills and tools for aspiring cybersecurity analysts, including network monitoring, incident response, and phishing defense. The conversation emphasizes the importance of practical experience and understanding the fundamentals to successfully navigate careers in cybersecurity. • Importance of network monitoring in identifying suspicious activities • Understanding networking fundamentals for cybersecurity roles • Tools for capturing and analyzing ...
This episode is part one of two that focuses on essential tools and skills for aspiring security analysts. In this episode we discuss SIEM tools, vulnerability management, and endpoint protection. Check out the link for the resources. • Importance of SIEM tools for analyzing log data • Vulnerability management as a critical cybersecurity hygiene practice • Regular vulnerability scans and prioritizing remediation efforts • The evolution of endpoint protection and curren...
Ryan Rath shares his journey from the military to a significant role in cybersecurity with Mandiant, discussing the challenges faced during the transition. Key topics include the importance of networking, the evolving skill sets required, and the ethical responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals, highlighting the need for mentorship and continuous learning. • Ryan's military background and transition to cybersecurity• The significance of networking in career development• Challenges face...
Max Harley's journey into cybersecurity began unexpectedly with a childhood passion for video games, which sparked a deeper interest in programming and security. His competitive spirit emerged through capture-the-flag competitions, leading him to impactful roles at SpecterOps and Prelude, emphasizing mentorship, networking, and continuous learning in crafting a successful cybersecurity career.• The spark of interest starting from video games and programming • Importance of competitions like P...
This episode features insights from two esteemed CISOs, Frank DePaola and Andrew Wilder, sharing their journeys into cybersecurity, the importance of mentorship, and essential leadership traits. They discuss the evolving role of a CISO, the need for business acumen, and the vital balance required between technical prowess and organizational needs. • Frank DePaola and Andrew Wilder share their unique career paths in cybersecurity • Importance of mentorship in career development and grow...
Welcome to the kickoff of Season 2 of the Cybersecurity Mentors Podcast! This season begins with an exciting collaboration with the Simply Cyber Media Group, bringing you inspiring personal journeys and emphasizing the transformative power of mentorship in cybersecurity. In this episode, John and Steve open up about their career paths, share their aspirations, and provide practical advice for anyone looking to build and grow a career in this dynamic field. We'll also dive into what this podca...
In this episode, we recap season one. We talk about lessons learned during our first season of the podcast, each of our favorite episodes, the top downloaded episodes of the year, reveal the countries that listen to us the most, and tease our season two plans for 2025, including exciting new collaborations that are in the works.You can connect with us and leave us feedback in the following ways:Sign up for our newsletter. Join us on Discord at Cybersecurity Mentors Podcast.Check out our ...
Join us for an exhilarating episode as cybersecurity pioneer Dave Kennedy, co-founder of TrustedSec and Binary Defense, shares his incredible journey from a curious kid in Cleveland to a leader in the cybersecurity industry. Discover how Dave transformed his passion for technology from dismantling toys to building computers, and how iconic films like "Back to the Future 2" and "Hackers" inspired his career path. Dave takes us through his time in military intelligence with the Marines, where h...
In this episode John shares an upcoming talk that he gave at the Simply Cyber Con '24 in Charleston, SC. Title: From Technical to Tactical: Storytelling Skills to Level Up Your Cybersecurity CareerDescription:In the fast-paced and complex world of cybersecurity, technical expertise alone isn't enough to stand out. What if you could turn your experiences into compelling stories that not only capture attention but also propel your career forward? Drawing on the transformative principles from Ma...
In this episode we sit down with Joe Hudson, Director of Growth at TCM Security, to discuss the challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity job hunting. With experience on both sides of the cybersecurity job market, Joe shares his personal journey from teaching to recruiting, and ultimately into cybersecurity. He provides actionable advice for job seekers, from the importance of networking to decoding job descriptions, as well as tips on working with recruiters and preparing for interviews....
In this episode, we have an insightful conversation with Adam Anderson, a seasoned cybersecurity professional, entrepreneur, and author. Adam shares his journey from a technical "keyboard warrior" to realizing the power of emotional intelligence (EIQ) in building a successful cybersecurity career. We discuss the critical differences between IQ and EIQ, how emotional intelligence can be your secret weapon for career growth, and why you should strive to be Yoda rather than Luke Skywalker in the...
In this episode we do a live coaching call with Grant Adams. Grant was one of the original interns who worked with us and took a hiatus from security to go on an adventure across the United States. He's now looking for advice to get back into security. We talk about his goals, give him advice on next steps, and do a deep dive into his resume. Send us fan mail via text
In this episode we interview Melissa and Kelly, who began their journey with us as interns and are now forging exciting careers in cybersecurity. Join our community by subscribing to our newsletter packed with tips and guidance to empower your journey.Send us fan mail via text
In this episode, we dive into actionable strategies for networking with cybersecurity professionals to land your dream job. From leveraging local security conferences to connecting with industry practitioners and engaging in online communities, we cover essential tips to help you build valuable relationships in the cybersecurity field. Whether you're new to the industry or looking to advance your career, this episode offers practical advice to enhance your networking efforts and open doors to...
In the Season 4 finale of The Cybersecurity Mentors Podcast, Steve and John wrap up an incredible season with a special listener-driven Q&A. The episode opens with a recap of Episodes 1–7, revisiting key lessons on soft skills, leadership, resume pitfalls, networking strategies, and inspiring career journeys. From there, they dive into your most pressing questions about breaking into cybersecurity — from whether college or certifications matter most, to the projects that truly prove you’r...
