Navigating Recruitment Challenges: Insights from Amanda Davis

In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast, Thomas chats with Amanda Davis, Talent Acquisition specialist at Axion. They discuss Amanda's impressive career journey and her current success in securing quality engineers despite a challenging market. Amanda shares her daily routine, emphasizing the importance of staying connected and using a multi-channel approach for recruiting. She provides valuable tips on resume formatting, interviewing, and why networking is crucial in the job search process.

Amanda also touches on the significance of persistence in following up with recruiters and the impact of communication skills on career growth. They delve into the dynamics of employer and candidate markets, stressing the need for long-term relationship building and effective communication. The conversation concludes with Amanda offering advice for those laid off and underscoring the importance of staying positive and open to new opportunities.

Amanda is not fond of reading books,

Tom recommended one to her: The Slight Edge

Jeff Olsen

In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast, Thomas sits down with Andy Cottrell, a seasoned cybersecurity expert and the CTO of Truvantis Inc.

Andy shares valuable insights into the current trends in cybersecurity, with a focus on pen testing and red teaming. The discussion covers the importance of building a robust security program, the evolving threat landscape, and how organizations can better manage risk. Andy also delves into the role of AI in cybersecurity and the critical need for proper governance.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just breaking into the field, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking insights.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:32 Economic Outlook in Cybersecurity

02:25 Andy's Career Journey

03:35 Pen Testing vs Red Teaming

07:48 Challenges in Pen Testing

13:47 Importance of Automation and Vulnerability Management

20:04 Risk Management and Business Continuity

26:31 Team Dynamics and Career Growth

27:44 The Importance of Team Success

28:07 Hiring for Broader Horizons

29:53 The Path to Pen Testing

32:08 The Value of Admitting Ignorance

34:10 Starting a Consulting Business

35:05 Networking and Industry Groups

37:15 The Risks of Over-Reliance on Tools

39:48 AI in Cybersecurity

47:28 Governance in a Rapidly Changing World

48:18 Leveraging AI for Personal Growth

51:19 Looking Ahead: Optimism for the Future Andy recommended: Feedly and Perplexity tool

Andy suggested: Feedly and Perplexity tool

Lee suggested:

Principles of Management Symposium Course  

RFC for Web (HTML and HTTP)

Navigating Cybersecurity Careers with Lee McWhorter: Insights on Education, AI, and Communication https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-mcwhorter/

Join us for an engaging episode of the Cybersecurity Recruiter Podcast featuring Lee McWhorter, a seasoned expert in cybersecurity education and training. Lee shares his extensive career journey, which began in the 1990s and has spanned various roles from instructor to CTO.

We delve into the significance of communication and soft skills in advancing cybersecurity careers, the evolving landscape of AI and red teaming, and offer valuable advice for both newcomers and seasoned professionals in the field. Tune in to discover how to stand out, stay current, and thrive in the rapidly changing world of cybersecurity.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:44 Lee's Career Overview

02:05 The Importance of Education and Giving Back

03:13 Red Team Village and AI in Cybersecurity

05:22 The Impact of AI and Future Trends

08:38 Communication Skills in Cybersecurity

17:56 Public Speaking and Personal Growth

21:38 Red Teaming and AI Insights

22:27 NIST AI Framework Red Teaming Challenge

23:40 Exploring AI Vulnerabilities

25:50 The Importance of Soft Skills in Tech

26:59 Creating Your Own Experience in Cybersecurity

28:48 Networking and Community in Cybersecurity

31:27 The Digital Revolution and Adaptability

35:45 The Value of Communication and Interpersonal Skills

40:41 Looking Ahead: Future Prospects

Navigating the World of Cybersecurity: Insights from Dustin Heath

In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast, Thomas chats with Dustin Heath, co-founder of Vigilant Cyber Systems. They discuss Dustin's journey from a Navy contractor to founding his own cybersecurity company, emphasizing the challenges and rewards along the way.

Dustin shares valuable advice for those looking to enter or advance in the cybersecurity field, highlighting the importance of academic credentials, certifications like OSCP, passion projects, and the ability to communicate complex ideas simply. They also touch on the future of cybersecurity, including the potential of AI in pen testing and the development of new tools.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamic world of cybersecurity and entrepreneurship.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:12 Overcoming Technical Issues

00:56 Dustin Heath's Career Journey

02:17 Starting Vigilant Cyber Systems

02:52 Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis

06:17 Passion Projects and Recruitment Insights

08:15 The Importance of Networking and Conferences

13:15 Hiring Criteria and Academic Credentials

24:03 Transitioning from IT to Pen Testing

27:04 Building a Long-Term Cybersecurity Career

29:19 The Joys and Challenges of Starting a Business

30:19 Building a Team and Company Culture

32:13 Early Struggles and Financial Realities

36:32 The Importance of Adaptability and Learning

37:23 Getting Granular: Starting Your Own Business

41:23 The Beer Test: Hiring the Right People

44:41 Effective Communication in Pen Testing

50:53 Future Plans and Sustained Growth

54:23 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Duane suggested:

Podcasts and Webinars that talks Recruitment and AI

Brett suggested:

The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday

David suggested:

Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In by Roger Fisher and William Ury

 Navigating Cybersecurity Recruitment: Insights with Kirsten Renner

In this episode of the Cybersecurity Recruiter Podcast, Kirsten Renner shares her extensive background in HR and recruitment, detailing her career journey from Telework X to her current VP role at SilverEdge. The conversation highlights the importance of human connections in recruitment, the value of attending and volunteering at conferences, and practical advice for career progression and job searching.

Kirsten also discusses the impact of AI in the recruitment process and the significance of mentorship and team development in leadership. Whether you're a job seeker or a recruiter, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable tips to thrive in the cybersecurity industry.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:34 Kirsten's Career Journey

01:58 A Day in the Life of Kirsten

03:19 Overcoming Public Speaking Nerves

06:09 Learning from Setbacks

10:37 Leadership and Team Building

18:33 Navigating the Job Market

23:19 The Story Behind Salaries

23:57 Negotiation Tips and Perks

24:37 Approaching Recruiters Effectively

26:05 Networking and Volunteering

30:13 The Importance of Conferences

33:00 Balancing AI and Human Connection

36:58 Effective Communication and Personalization

41:37 Content Recommendations and Learning

45:58 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Kirsten suggested:

Cleared Jobs Podcast 

Ted Talks