How a Detective Became the Ginger Hacker: SOC Life, Job Hunts & Blue Team Wisdom

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Simply Defensive

Simply Cyber Media Group

36 episodes

1 day ago

Join us for Simply Defensive, a podcast dedicated to exploring the world of defensive cybersecurity through the lens of real-world experts. In each episode, we'll interview leading professionals from the cybersecurity industry, delving into their experiences, challenges, and innovative solutions. Whether you're a seasoned cybersecurity veteran or just starting to learn about the field, Simply Defensive offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you stay ahead of the curve. Tune in as we discuss the latest threats, emerging technologies, and best practices for protecting your organization from cyberattacks. ========================= Connect with your hosts: Josh Mason: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuacmason Wade Wells: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadingthrulogs ========================= Simply Cyber empowers people who want a rewarding cybersecurity career 💪 ========================= ========================= All the ways to connect with Simply Cyber https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials =========================

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How a Detective Became the Ginger Hacker: SOC Life, Job Hunts & Blue Team Wisdom

Simply Defensive

36 minutes

1 month ago

How a Detective Became the Ginger Hacker: SOC Life, Job Hunts & Blue Team Wisdom

From the streets to the SOC. 💻

In this episode of Simply Defensive, Josh Mason and Wade Wells talk with Andrew Crotty — aka Ginger Hacker. A former detective turned Tier 3 SOC analyst and Army reservist, Andrew shares his journey into cyber, the struggles of breaking in, and the lessons he’s learned (including the rookie mistake that accidentally dosed the DMV 👀).

What you’ll hear:
🔹 Andrew’s pivot from law enforcement to cybersecurity
🔹 SOC life, schedules, and fighting burnout
🔹 Job hunting, recruiters, and landing that first role
🔹 Why soft skills matter as much as technical skills
🔹 Andrew’s advice for blue teamers: ask why, stay curious, fight alert fatigue

📺 Check out Andrew’s channel, Ginger Hacker: https://www.youtube.com/@gingerhacker

🎙️ More episodes of Simply Defensive: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4Q-ttyNIRAr6DVrsASx1-Fv-TsooJ3M4&si=TqefAfDjdR1AYt1c

👥 Connect with Us on LinkedIn:
- Josh Mason (Co-Host): https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuacmason
- Wade Wells (Co-Host): https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadingthrulogs/
- Kevin Mata (Guest): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinmata
- Swimlane: https://www.linkedin.com/company/swimlane

🎙️ More Simply Defensive
- Full playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4Q-ttyNIRAr6DVrsASx1-Fv-TsooJ3M4
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/72QTocT5FSTSPV7o1UcMS4
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/il/podcast/simply-defensive/id1773806182

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with your fellow defenders. Every week, Josh Mason and Wade Wells bring you practical, no-fluff conversations with cybersecurity leaders.

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Sponsored by ThreatLocker - Free 30-day trial of ThreatLocker
https://www.threatlocker.com/simplydefensive
=========================
All the ways to connect with Simply Cyber
https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials
=========================
This podcast is presented by Simply Cyber Media Group