In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, hosts Annie-Mei and Anika explore the question of whether you need a cybersecurity degree to work in the field. With varied personal experiences, they provide insights into the current job market, entry-level challenges, and the importance of hands-on skills versus formal education. They discuss alternative pathways like bootcamps, networking, certifications, and transferable skills from other industries. The conversation also touches on the importance of following your gut and not conforming to rigid career expectations.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Backgrounds
01:21 The Cybersecurity Job Market
03:19 Importance of Skills Over Degrees
05:07 University Experience and Employability
08:55 Personal Journeys and Career Decisions
11:09 Challenges in Cybersecurity Education
14:13 Real-World Experience vs. Academic Learning
28:39 Diverse Career Paths and Mentorship
31:45 Parental Expectations and Career Choices
33:32 The Reality of Cybersecurity Careers
35:47 Transferring Skills to Cybersecurity
37:24 Networking and Continuous Learning
39:14 The Importance of Following Your Passion
44:52 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Comparison
56:09 Conclusion: Trusting Your Gut

Apple Security Bounty:

https://security.apple.com/bounty/

Linux Vulnerability:

https://www.akamai.com/blog/security-research/critical-linux-backdoor-xz-utils-discovered-what-to-know

This Is How They Tell Me The World Ends:

https://www.amazon.com.au/This-They-Tell-World-Will/dp/1635576059

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Find us on Instagram and YouTube @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, hosts Annie-Mei and Anika are joined by Veronika Kolek Netolická, the co-founder of Women4Cyber Czechia and current cyber attachée for the Indo-Pacific at the National Cyber and Information Security Agency. The discussion takes place at the Czech Embassy in Canberra, looking at Veronika's extensive background in cybersecurity, her education, and her various roles and initiatives. The conversation explores the importance of diversity and inclusivity in cybersecurity, the foundation and growth of Women4Cyber Czechia, and the challenges of bringing more women and underrepresented groups into the fold. The episode also touches on the significance of public policy in cybersecurity and the need for greater public awareness. Veronika shares insights from her experience living in Canberra, her commitment to continuous learning, and the value of mentorship and constructive criticism. The podcast concludes with practical advice for those aspiring to a career in cybersecurity and diplomacy.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:44 Veronika's Background and Achievements

01:57 Women for Cyber Czechia

02:47 Diversity in Cybersecurity

09:37 Public Policy and Cybersecurity

11:37 Role of Cyber Attache

16:22 Global Cybersecurity Perspectives

22:05 Cultural Differences and Security Mindsets

27:45 Living in Canberra: A Unique Experience

28:20 Navigating Social Life in Canberra

30:11 Balancing Academia and Work

32:16 The Importance of Communication in Academia

34:42 Diverse Perspectives and Real-World Applications

38:24 Cybersecurity Conferences and Initiatives

41:58 Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals

45:39 The Role of Criticism and Mentorship

49:55 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Women4Cyber Czechia LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/women4cyber-czechia/

Women4Cyber Czechia Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/women4cyber.cz/

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Find us on Instagram and YouTube @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode, Harriet and Annie-Mei have a chat over wine and ice-cream sundaes from a hotel room in Sydney before heading to a Gracie Abrams concert. They explore Harriet's journey as the founder of Mileva Security Labs, an AI security company that addresses security risks to AI systems. Harriet shares insights into the challenges of starting and running a business, especially as a young woman in a male-dominated field. The discussion delves into issues of bias, gender, and ageism in the professional world, and the importance of resilience and adaptability. The conversation also touches on public speaking, the benefits of networking, and the need for social interactions. With anecdotes from their careers and personal lives, Harriet and Annie-Mei paint a vivid picture of the entrepreneurial landscape and the personal growth that comes with it.

Show links:

Mileva Security Labs: https://milev.ai

Harriet's AI Security podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BJiuvMBqVKKBW2XyID6Bz

00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:53 Excitement for Gracie Abrams Concert
01:19 Harriet's Company: Mileva Security Labs
03:26 Challenges of Being a Female Founder
07:10 Ageism and Bias in Professional Settings
10:43 The Reality of Running a Startup
14:02 Balancing Work and Personal Life
19:25 Frustrations with Traditional Work Culture
20:05 The Potential of AI in the Workforce
20:21 Struggles with Nine-to-Five Jobs
21:54 Public Sector Work Dynamics
23:53 Starting a Company in AI Security
25:41 Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking
27:28 Building Confidence and Making Friends
31:46 The Importance of Networking
34:18 The Need for Face-to-Face Interaction
35:59 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

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Find us on Instagram and YouTube @thecybersecuritygals