The Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast

Jim Miller on Talent Acquisition: Career Growth, Remote Hiring, and Today’s Employer MarketOn the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, Thomas chats with Jim Miller, a talent acquisition leader with 25 years’ experience, including early recruitment at Allegis, a decade at Google (rising to global head of inbound talent), VP of Talent Acquisition at FullStory, and now VP of People and Talent at Ashby, where the company is fully remote across 27 countries.Jim shares career lessons: teach and share expertise, explicitly ask for roles you want, and prioritize quality over quantity. They discuss today’s market dynamics: layoffs, heavy competition for remote roles, niche hard-to-fill roles, and intentional application “friction”,plus concerns about overusing AI in applications. Jim advises tailoring CVs to show what you did, how, and the impact and magnitude of your actions, and recommends Ashby’s “Offer Accepted” podcast.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:51 Life and Remote Work03:04 Team Retreats and Remote Culture04:07 Career Growth Lessons08:13 Quality Over Quantity10:06 Intentional Applications12:19 Hiring Market Imbalance16:47 AI Use and Integrity19:33 Resume Impact and Magnitude22:40 Resume Bullet Formula22:53 ATS Myths And Evidence24:05 AI Criteria Matching25:26 Speed And Transparency25:41 High Volume Review Hacks26:37 Accent Banter Break27:08 Handling Setbacks Adaptably29:23 Inbound Versus Sourcing32:33 Early Google Scaling Story34:41 Choosing Product Market Fit36:28 Building Google's ATS39:50 Offer Accepted Podcast41:03 Learning From Coworkers43:03 Closing Thoughts

Andrew Wildrix on Transitioning from the Army, Building Networks, and Standing Out in Cybersecurity Hiring On the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, Tom interviews Andrew Wildrix, a former US Army major and current VP of Business Development at Intrusion, about his career path from military service into cybersecurity and sales/technical leadership. Andrew describes his day-to-day work spanning emails and sales calls, product and engineering feedback loops, budgeting for a public company, and raising Intrusion’s profile as it expands from long-term US government work into commercial markets. He contrasts government vs MSP messaging, emphasizes planning before leaving the military, and advises building networks through local professional groups and optimizing LinkedIn while avoiding divisive topics. They discuss ATS-driven hiring challenges, the value of soft skills and translating technical concepts without condescension, creative job-search tactics to “not be a number,” and interview red flags like victim mentality. Andrew recommends reading The Phoenix Project and a Star Wars “Book of the Sith” on power and leadership. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:11 Day in the Life at Intrusion 02:38 Branding vs Cold Outreach 03:20 Customer Feedback to Product 04:06 Army Background and Influence Ops 04:48 Transitioning Out of Military 06:28 ATS and Hiring Reality Check 08:14 Building a Network and LinkedIn 11:19 Staying Professional Online 13:51 Sales and Technical Career Loop 14:56 Communication and Culture Lessons 21:06 Toxicity and SMB Team Fit 22:09 Standing Out in Job Hunting 26:17 Resilience and Victim Mindset 30:58 Books That Shaped Andrew 32:57 Wrap Up and Thanks

Navigating a Cybersecurity Career and Business Leadership with Dave AndersonIn this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast, our host converses with Dave Anderson about his fascinating career journey in cybersecurity. They discuss Dave's consistent online presence, bolstered by a specialist assisting him with LinkedIn content, which is pivotal for staying visible in the cybersecurity field.Dave shares insightful details about his traditional career progression, from tech support to high-level security roles at prominent companies like Greenhouse, and his eventual transition to founding TSC Security. Dave takes us through the unique steps of moving from being an employee to an employer, including an intriguing personal story of moving to a boat in New Jersey and eventually to Florida, while developing his consultancy business.The conversation covers the challenges of scaling a business, hiring dynamic and flexible personnel, and the importance of certifications and continual learning in the cybersecurity field. Dave also emphasizes the value of referrals,and shares his thoughts on the impactful book 'The Phoenix Project' for understanding effective project management in a business context.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:30 Dave's Content Strategy and Consistency01:56 Career Journey and Achievements02:43 Starting TSC Security04:30 Life on a Boat and Transition to Entrepreneurship06:28 Growth and Challenges of Running a Business09:56 Importance of Referrals and Networking13:36 Lessons from Startup Experience18:33 Building a Strong Network19:04 Scaling Challenges and Company Growth21:44 Hiring the Right People25:14 The Impact of AI on Business29:29 The Value of Certifications32:25 Recommended Resources for Success35:37 Final Thoughts and Reflection

Leading Managed Security Services: Growth, Hiring Advice, and Playing to Your Strengths with April JenkinsThomas chats with April Jenkins, Senior Director of Managed Services/Service Desk at Elite Ops, about her career path, and how she prioritizes both customer outcomes and team growth, balance, and psychological safety. April explains her organization’s expansion from 9 to 42 people through new hiring and team consolidation, and discusses current market conditions: high candidate volume, employer decisions about remote vs. office, and the importance of responsiveness, accurately matching job requirements, and adding short notes with resumes.She shares career guidance on focusing on strengths, staying authentic, reading the room, building relationships through problem-solving, and sustaining momentum via small daily wins and protected thinking time. Recommendation: a strengths-focused book (described as “maximizing your strengths”) and the “do unto others” golden rule from a Dr Pepper Museum exhibit.00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:26 April’s Career Origins02:45 Life Running 24/7 Support05:03 Team Culture and Mindset06:31 Scaling from 9 to 4207:13 Hiring in a Tough Market11:10 Standing Out as a Candidate14:39 Internships and Career Switchers15:12 Advice for Career Growth17:19 Strengths and Relationship Building20:15 Finding Your Niche in Security21:29 Find Your Strengths22:20 Define Your Core24:12 Write It Down Daily25:24 Protect Thinking Time26:29 Start Small Habits28:40 Momentum From Small Wins29:51 Ignore Social Media Timelines32:15 Relationships As Deposits34:33 Authenticity And Feedback37:36 Golden Rule Leadership40:00 Wrap Up And Thanks

Recruiter Insights for a Tough Market: Resumes, Interviews, Follow-Ups, and ProfessionalismOn the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, Tom chats with Barb Adrian, Chief People Officer at Procellis Technology. about how candidates can stand out in a competitive, layoff-impacted market. Barb stresses a well-constructed, proof-read resume (errors like misspellings or mismatched dates are deal-breakers), showcasing community involvement, and limiting work history to relevant recent years. For interviews, she advises researching the company, being prepared for recruiter calls, asking thoughtful questions (including culture and what the interviewer loves about the job), practicing communication, and being comfortable with silence rather than babbling. She welcomes proactive outreach via LinkedIn or email and emphasizes follow-up and professionalism on virtual interviews (clean space, appropriate attire, minimal oversharing). Barb notes AI filtering can miss great candidates, so she manually reviewed 430 applicants, and she finds referrals especially effective. 00:56 Meet Barb Career Journey02:01 Resume Must Haves03:21 Interview Prep and Flow05:57 Smart Questions to Ask07:05 Relaxed Communication Tips09:41 Reaching Out and Standing Out10:30 AI Screening and Follow Up14:35 Worst Phone Interview Story16:30 Virtual Interview Professionalism17:21 Oversharing Red Flags18:06 Stay Professional until Offer18:51 Dress For Success19:36 Market Shift Reality Check20:24 Community Interview Support23:51 AI Screening Pitfalls25:07 Referrals Beat Algorithms25:46 LinkedIn Noise And Etiquette28:07 Hiring Needs And Candidate Energy30:52 Human Touch And Mental Health33:04 Learning Through Your Network34:23 Episode Wrap Up

Navigating Cybersecurity Careers and Communication with Jake EverettIn this episode of the Cybersecurity Recruiter Podcast, Thomas welcomes Jake Everett, VP of Offensive Security at Rule4. They discuss technical challenges, the impact of AI, and Jake's career journey from the Marine Corps to the commercial world. Jake shares his daily responsibilities, the importance of communication and responsiveness, and educational resources that have been pivotal for his career. They also explore the role of honesty and detailed problem-solving in successful cybersecurity careers. Jake recommends the book 'Sandworm' and highlights valuable online resources like Hack the Box, Try Hack Me, and YouTube videos for continued learning.00:00 Introduction and Technical Glitches 00:20 AI in Podcasting and Everyday Life 01:03 Jake Everett's Career Journey 02:02 A Day in the Life of a VP of Offensive Security 02:38 The Four-Day Work Week 04:31 Preparing for OSCP and Continuous Learning 08:25 Physical Pen Testing and Lock Picking 09:35 Transitioning from the Marine Corps to Tech 10:27 The Importance of Practical Application in Learning 12:37 Communication Skills in Cybersecurity 14:37 Honesty and Integrity in Job Applications 16:36 Building Trust in Cybersecurity 17:45 The Power of Word of Mouth 18:31 Effective Communication Tips 22:23 Career Progression to VP Level 24:27 The Role of AI in Recruitment 28:01 The Value of Continuous Learning 29:03 The Impact of Cyber Warfare 32:08 The Importance of a Positive Algorithm Diet 33:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Unlocking the Secrets of Talent Acquisition with John HerrickIn this episode of the Cybersecurity Recruiter Podcast, Thomas interviews John Herrick, a seasoned professional in the recruitment industry. They discuss John's career trajectory from a boutique agency in 2012 to his current role as a Global Talent Acquisition Manager. John shares insights on the effectiveness of ice baths, the benefits of over-communicating, and the importance of networking for finding passive candidates. He also shares personal growth tips, emphasizing the need for proactive outreach and heavy note-taking. The conversation is enriched with anecdotes about hiring across different cultures and the importance of aligning with hiring managers. For book lovers, John recommends survival books focused on edible plants, and for podcast enthusiasts, he enjoys 'The Joe Rogan Experience.00:00 Introduction and Ice Bath Discussion 01:07 John Herrick's Career Journey 01:42 Agency vs In-House Recruitment 02:49 The Importance of Professionalism in Recruitment 06:33 Challenges in the Current Job Market 11:45 Effective Communication with Hiring Managers 15:04 John's Promotion Journey and Key Learnings 21:49 Qualifying Roles and Passive Talent 22:48 Effective Communication with Hiring Managers 23:23 Cultural Differences in Hiring Practices 25:19 Proactive Stakeholder Engagement 26:05 Importance of Personality in Hiring 30:22 Learning from Candidates and Research 35:18 Personal Growth and Recommendations 35:47 Networking and Referrals 40:42 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Building Relationships and Navigating Cybersecurity Recruitment with Mariah HaagIn this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, host Thomas is joined by Mariah Haag, a Security Project and Talent Manager at Stratum Security, which has recently merged with Cyber Advisors. They discuss the organized chaos of managing client demands, Mariah’s career progression from retail management to cybersecurity recruitment, and the vital role of building relationships within the industry.Mariah emphasizes the importance of setting SMART goals, getting out of one's comfort zone, and maintaining work-life balance. She also shares insights on the law of attraction and recommends reading 'The Secret' and Top Biller, by Steve Guest, a recruitment book that offers practical advice from one of the top recruiters in the world.Throughout the episode, they highlight the benefits and challenges of remote work, the value of in-office experiences, especially for newcomers, and how to leverage every interaction for personal and professional growth.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:04 Mariah's Career Journey02:40 Building Relationships in Recruitment06:30 The Importance of Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone12:02 Practical Tips for Relationship Building15:02 The Power of Positive Thinking and Goal Setting20:21 Achieving Short-Term Goals21:22 The Importance of Fun at Work23:38 Understanding SMART Goals25:11 Balancing Work and Personal Life28:00 The Value of Office Culture36:24 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast: Navigating Career Journeys and Leveraging AI with Grace Rauth,In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast, Thomas interacts with Grace Rauth, the global Learning and Development Manager at Chronosphere. Grace shares her journey from an HR specialist to an L&D specialist, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in today’s fast-changing work environment, especially with the rise of AI. The conversation also explores how Enneagram can be a powerful tool for understanding team dynamics and personal motivations. Grace shares her love for 'The Lord of the Rings' as a personal life philosophy and recommends 'Five Dysfunctions of a Team' for professional development. The episode wraps up with practical advice for job seekers in the current tough market, emphasizing the value of AI tools, active listening, and staying positive.00:14 Discussing the Weather and Working Conditions 01:26 Grace's Career Journey 01:59 The Startup Experience 03:31 Adapting to AI in the Workplace 11:11 The Importance of Active Listening 17:00 Understanding Motivation with Enneagram 20:28 The Challenges of Transitioning to Management 21:52 The Complexities of Sales and Recruitment 24:38 The Impact of Market Conditions on Hiring 29:38 Leveraging AI and Staying Positive in Job Search 34:37 The Value of Patience and Adaptability in CareersGrace Rauth suggested:The Lord of the Rings by John Ronald Reuel TolkienThe Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

Insightful Journeys in Cybersecurity and the Impact of Emotional IntelligenceIn this episode of the 'Cyber Security Recruiter' podcast, Thomas welcomes Max Schroeder, CTO at Aquiety, who shares his unique career trajectory from the beverage industry to becoming a CTO in cybersecurity. Max emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in technical roles and elaborates on how his hospitality background has been instrumental to his success.The discussion covers recurring themes concerning the hospitality industry's influence on career advancement, the significance of networking and genuine human connection in a digitized world, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in recruiting and cybersecurity. Max offers invaluable advice on the importance of communication skills, continuous learning, and the need for passion outside of work to stay grounded. The episode also features a thoughtful recommendation for the book 'Setting the Table' by Danny Meyer, highlighting the essence of exceptional customer service and its relevance across different fields.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:31 Max Shroeder's Career Journey02:27 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence05:23 Leadership and Communication Skills10:08 Networking and AI in Recruitment16:14 The Value of Conferences and Networking Groups20:32 LinkedIn and Online Presence23:23 The Quest for Authenticity in the Age of AI24:21 Balancing AI Innovation with Security Concerns26:30 The Importance of Quality Over Quantity in SMBs27:48 The Power of Positive Experiences and Referrals29:55 Building Genuine Connections in Professional Networking33:52 Navigating Career Progression and Job Loyalty41:34 The Value of Passion Projects and Continuous Learning44:02 Concluding Thoughts and ReflectionsMax suggested:Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

Navigating Cybersecurity and Career Transitions with George Charles OsterholtIn this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, the host welcomes George Charles Osterholt, a lead cybersecurity engineer at Scientia. They discuss George's career transition from managing sizable teams in restaurants to becoming an advisor at Indiana University and later advancing in the cybersecurity field. George shares his insights on managing remote teams, the importance of cybersecurity compliance, and the challenges of integrating AI into security measures. He also offers valuable advice on effectively communicating the importance of cybersecurity to non-technical stakeholders. George recommends 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho and a book about the life of MF Doom, emphasizing the importance of adventure, self-realization, and sticking to first principles in one's career journey.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:41 George's Background and Career Journey 01:16 A Day in the Life of a Cybersecurity Engineer 02:19 CMMC and Compliance in Cybersecurity 03:17 The Importance of Security and Privacy 04:19 Team Dynamics and Development 05:21 Incident Response and Continuous Learning 10:10 Balancing Budget and Security 13:51 Communicating ROI in Cybersecurity 19:45 AI and the Future of Cybersecurity 22:21 Navigating Security with Caveats 23:41 Effective Cybersecurity Training 24:54 Visible Security and Trust 25:42 Communication and Adaptability in Security 26:33 Lessons from the Restaurant Industry 29:03 Incident Response and Agility 32:59 Career Transitions and Lifelong Learning 35:08 The Future of AI and Cybersecurity 36:41 Economic Cycles and Career Resilience 37:44 Adapting to Remote Work 39:50 Books that Inspire and Guide 42:07 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsGeorge suggested: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho The Chronicles of Doom by S.H. Fernando Jr.

Navigating Cybersecurity Careers: Insights from Brennan LodgeIn this episode of the Cybersecurity Recruiter Podcast, Thomas is joined by Brennan Lodge to discuss his extensive experience and career in cybersecurity. They delve into Brennan's past roles at Goldman Sachs, BlockFi, and HSBC, as well as his current ventures as a founder of BLodgic and fractional CISO. Brennan shares insights on balancing multiple roles, the importance of communication and mentorship, and his passion for integrating AI and data science into cybersecurity practices. The conversation also touches on the need for resilience, the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, and the benefits of attending industry conferences. Brennan recommends two impactful books: Shon Harris's CISSP guide and Ethan Mollick's 'Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AIBrennan also tells us about his LinkedIn Learning LinkedIn learning class coming out on AI Tools and Automation for Cybersecurity and his previous classes on LinkedIn Learning,- RAG (retrieve augmented generation) and use cases of RAG for cybersecurity. And then MCP (model context protocol) and use cases of using and securing MCP and cybersecurity.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:30 Guest Background and Career Highlights 01:45 Current Role and Responsibilities 03:38 Insights on Cybersecurity and Career Growth 05:35 Challenges and Strategies in Cybersecurity 13:49 The Role of AI in Cybersecurity 21:49 AI in Legal and Security Frameworks 22:27 The Role of AI in GRC and Audits 23:22 Challenges and Benefits of AI in Compliance 27:38 The Importance of Conferences and Networking 31:56 Upcoming Talks and Learning Resources 35:07 Books and Resources for Career Growth 38:10 Final Thoughts on Cybersecurity and AI

Navigating Cybersecurity Recruitment: Insights from Carter MillerIn this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, Tom engages in a candid conversation with Carter Miller, the head of talent at Trail of Bits. They discuss Carter's journey in the recruitment industry, touching on his roles at various organizations including Scope Group, Capital One, and Research Innovations. They delve into the importance of passion, continuous learning, and community involvement for candidates looking to excel in cybersecurity roles. Carter shares insights on effective hiring practices, the impact of AI in recruitment, and the challenges posed by fake candidates. The episode also highlights Carter's personal growth journey and his efforts to create an inclusive and agile work environment at Trail of Bits. Book recommendation: ´The Rising Leader Handbook´ by Mark Silverman.00:00 Introduction and Technical Issues01:15 Carter Miller's Career Journey03:48 Recruitment Insights and Strategies09:23 AI and Cybersecurity Innovations15:34 Hiring Criteria and Candidate Tips18:48 Hiring Passionate People at Trail of Bits19:19 Importance of Blockchain and Public Contests20:43 Job Search Fatigue and Candidate Preparation21:54 Challenges in Reviewing Resumes24:12 AI in Job Applications30:57 Building Relationships in Recruiting35:14 The Rising Leader Handbook38:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCarter suggested:The Rising leader Handbook by Mark Silverman

The Journey from Employee to Cybersecurity Entrepreneur with Kevin JohnsonIn this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, the host interviews Kevin Johnson, CEO of Secure Ideas. Kevin shares his experience and insights from his career journey, including his early days as a programmer, a SANS instructor, and his transition to running his own successful cybersecurity firm. He discusses the differences between being busy and being productive, the importance of consuming and discerning information, and the ethical implications of business practices like cold calling. Kevin also emphasizes the role of a strong support network in achieving entrepreneurial success and offers advice on how to sustain long-term business growth. Additionally, he recommends Malcolm Gladwell's podcast 'Revisionist History' for its insights into understanding and solving complex problems.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:23 The Busy vs. Productive Debate 02:15 Kevin's Journey into Cybersecurity 04:42 The Importance of Consuming Knowledge 07:24 From Employee to Entrepreneur 14:48 The Power of Doing 18:29 The Evolution of MVPs and Security Concerns 19:10 Leadership vs. Management: A Personal Insight 20:04 The Importance of Fun in the Workplace 21:24 A Unique Approach to Customer Service 26:07 The Ethics of Cold Calling and Inbound Marketing 31:52 The Impact of Revisionist History 36:45 Concluding Thoughts and ReflectionsKevin suggested:Talking to Strangers book and Revisionist History podcast by Malcolm Gladwell

Navigating the Job Market:- Insights from Industry ExpertsIn this episode of the Talent Acquisition podcast, Tom welcomes Donna Pacheco, a seasoned talent acquisition specialist, for an in-depth discussion on the contemporary recruitment landscape.Donna shares her extensive career journey and insights from her experience in various sectors, including healthcare and logistics. The conversation covers the chaotic post-COVID job market, emphasizing the importance of industry-specific knowledge and adaptability.Key topics include the impact of AI on job applications, strategies for effective job searching, relationship-building with recruiters, and the evolving nature of recruitment in a more volatile world. Both Tom and Donna stress the importance of authenticity and due diligence for job seekers and recruiters alike, offering practical advice to help navigate these unprecedented times.Donna recommends reading Franklin Covey series about being mindful of time management.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:30 Donna's Career Journey01:13 Post-COVID Job Market Insights03:09 AI and Technology in Job Hunting03:34 Industry-Specific Job Market Trends05:36 Using AI for Resumes and Interviews15:47 Building Relationships in Recruiting17:23 Challenges in Modern Recruiting19:46 Scaling Back on Profiles20:17 The Importance of Personal Branding21:00 Challenges in Recruitment22:35 Fake Applications and Impersonation Issues24:38 The Value of Initial Screening Calls25:23 Recruiter and Candidate Communication26:31 Understanding Recruiter Workloads29:05 The Impact of Company Restructuring31:13 The Joy and Challenges of Recruitment34:39 Time Management Tips for RecruitersDonna suggested:Franklin Covey Training series

Balancing Cybersecurity and Skateboarding: Insights from Patrick GarrityIn this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter podcast, Thomas is joined by Patrick Garrity, an experienced cybersecurity professional with a unique passion for skateboarding. They discuss Patrick’s journey from sales to high-level roles in cybersecurity, his innovative office setup, and his skateboarding adventures.Patrick shares his experiences with injury, the importance of vulnerability and persistence in professional development, and strategies for effective online engagement. They also explore valuable resources for cybersecurity research and the importance of staying active, both mentally and physically. Patrick recommends the book 'The Mutt' by skateboard legend Rodney Mullen for inspiration.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:12 Skateboarding Passion and Injuries 02:47 Patrick's Professional Journey 04:05 Daily Life and Work in Cybersecurity 05:37 The Importance of Communication Skills 07:35 Embracing Criticism and Feedback 17:50 Balancing Work and Hobbies 21:28 The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Good People 22:53 Climbing the Career Ladder: Titles and Responsibilities 30:47 Balancing Work and Personal Life 34:07 Resources for Vulnerability Research 37:29 Conference Highlights and Networking 40:05 Book Recommendations and Personal Growth 42:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections