From System Admin to VP of Product Security: Ed Hagopian's Journey in Cybersecurity

In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, Thomas welcomes guest Ed Hagopian, VP of Product Security at Cream City Cyber.

Ed shares his career trajectory from a CIS admin to a leading role, emphasizing a hands-on approach, relentless curiosity, and the importance of adaptability in the fast-evolving tech landscape. He discusses his early interest in computers, driven by his father's encouragement, and how this passion led to pivotal roles at North Western Mutual, Microsoft, and Dell.

The conversation highlights the value of building strong teams, continuous learning, and positive mindset in overcoming career challenges and embracing technological advancements like AI and machine learning.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:28 Ed's Career Journey

02:52 Early Passion for Computers

05:20 Challenges and Setbacks

10:10 AI and Machine Learning Insights

13:14 The Future of AI and Security

15:31 Identity Proofing and Trust

21:16 AI in Music and Media

21:54 AI in Cybersecurity: Detection and Defense

22:21 The Rise of AI in Music

22:33 Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals

23:17 The Importance of Hands-On Learning

24:09 Mentorship and Skill Development

26:05 Implementing a Risk Assessment Program

27:34 The Value of Demonstrable Proficiency

28:15 Adapting to Technological Changes

32:01 The Power of Positive Attitude

36:42 Recommended Books and Continuous Learning

41:28 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Ed suggested:

Never Split the Difference

Christopher Voss and Tahl Raz

Enhancing Communication Skills for Cybersecurity Professionals with Josh Hohbein

In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, Thomas welcomes Josh Hohbein, an experienced security professional with a rich background in various roles, including restaurant management.

Josh discusses how skills learned in the service industry have been invaluable in cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of communication and soft skills. The conversation covers the need for effective public speaking, client interactions, and building trust, especially as AI and technology evolve.

Josh also shares practical advice for those looking to improve their communication abilities and emphasizes the growing importance of well-rounded skillsets in the cybersecurity field.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:47 Josh's Career Journey

01:33 The Value of Soft Skills in Cybersecurity

04:03 Real-Life Examples of Soft Skills in Action

10:23 Enhancing Communication Skills

13:05 The Future of Communication in the Age of AI

16:47 The Importance of Going Above and Beyond in Service

17:44 Drawing Parallels Between Restaurant Compliance and Cybersecurity

19:03 The Power of Effective Communication in Client Relations

23:12 Transitioning from Restaurant Management to Cybersecurity

28:03 The Value of Hands-On Experience in Cybersecurity

32:05 The Importance of Concise Communication and Continuous Learning

34:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Josh suggested:

 Official Guide to Public Speaking by Chris Anderson

Udemy,  EQ versus IQ

Exploring Cybersecurity Careers: Insights from Philippe Caturegli, Chief Hacking Officer, Seralys

In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, Thomas is joined by Philippe, a seasoned cybersecurity professional with an extensive career in web development and security roles.

Philippe shares his journey from vulnerability researcher to Chief Hacking Officer of his own firm, Seralys, and discusses the importance of passion and curiosity in cybersecurity. He touches on how AI is revolutionizing the field but emphasizes the irreplaceable value of human expertise.

Philippe also talks about the importance of understanding the business impact of vulnerabilities and offers advice for aspiring pentesters. The episode provides valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of a career in cybersecurity.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:32 Philippe's Career Journey

01:20 LinkedIn and Content Sharing

02:54 Day in the Life of a Chief Hacking Officer

03:40 The Importance of Hands-On Experience

09:07 AI in Cybersecurity

11:33 Staying Updated in Cybersecurity

13:02 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship

17:16 Understanding Developer Shortcuts

17:41 Recommended Programming Languages

18:36 Legacy Systems and Security

19:00 Getting into Pen Testing

19:38 Bug Bounty Programs

20:35 The Art of Exploitation

21:26 The Importance of Proof of Concept

25:56 Building a Strong Security Team

29:03 Real-World Security Challenges

30:36 Career Advice and Growth

32:23 Recommended Reading and Resources

33:34 Conclusion and Farewell

Philippe suggested:

Kevin Mitnick’s Books

Philippe's LinkedIn profile:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/caturegli/