Authentically Cyber | Podcast on RSS.com

Authentically Cyber

Authentically Cyber

by Kathy Chambers

Careers Technology

Season 2

How to Build a Cybersecurity Career

Breaking into cybersecurity is one challenge. Building a long, successful career is another. In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with cybersecurity leader and author Helen Patton to discuss what it really takes to grow in this industry—from landing your first role to leading security teams. We explore career growth beyond certifications, when to specialize versus pivot, the importance of networking and mentorship, developing leadership skills, and how to take ownership of your career instead of waiting for opportunities to appear. Whether you're trying to break into cybersecurity, earn your next promotion, or prepare for leadership, this conversation offers practical guidance for every stage of the journey. Check out Helen's books: Navigating the Cyber Security Career Path: https://a.co/d/01RpMi49 Switching to Cyber: The Mid-Career Guide to Launching a Cybersecurity Career: https://a.co/d/04C7e1mA Help fuel Authentically Cyber: https://buymeacoffee.com/kathychambers

Inside the World of Dark Web Research

What does a dark web researcher actually do? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with dark web researcher Matthew Maynard to explore the realities behind one of cybersecurity's most misunderstood roles. We discuss how Matthew got started in dark web research, what a typical day looks like, and the biggest misconceptions people have about the dark web. We also explore the human side of the work—how constant exposure to criminal activity, threat intelligence, and underground communities can shape the way you think about trust, online behavior, and the world around you. Topics include: • Breaking into dark web research • What dark web researchers actually do • Common myths and misconceptions • The psychology of spending time in criminal communities • Mental and emotional challenges of the work • Separating work from personal life • Surprising lessons from years of research • Advice for aspiring researchers Whether you're curious about cybersecurity careers, threat intelligence, or the realities behind the headlines, this conversation offers a rare look inside a fascinating field.

How to Network in Cybersecurity (Even If You're Shy)

Networking is one of the most valuable skills in cybersecurity—but for many people, it's also one of the most intimidating. In this episode of Authentically Cyber, Kathy Chambers sits down with Mara Levy to talk about building meaningful professional relationships, making connections at conferences and events, and finding creative ways to start conversations—even if you're naturally shy or introverted. Mara shares practical strategies that have helped her connect with people throughout her career, along with tips for approaching networking with confidence, authenticity, and curiosity. Whether you're new to cybersecurity, looking to grow your network, or simply tired of hearing "just put yourself out there," this conversation offers actionable ideas you can start using right away. In this episode: Why networking matters in cybersecurity How to start conversations when you're shy Creative ways to meet new people at events Building authentic professional relationships Turning introductions into long-term connections Common networking mistakes to avoid

I Started Over 5 Times | From Teacher to GRC Founder

What happens when you refuse to let one career path define your future? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Blessing Ebare to talk about one of the most unconventional career journeys you'll hear. Over the last eight years, Blessing has transitioned from zoology student to biology teacher, anti-money laundering professional, chartered accountant, data protection officer, cybersecurity practitioner, and now founder of her own GRC company. We discuss: • Navigating multiple career pivots • Building confidence in unfamiliar industries • Managing imposter syndrome while learning new skills • Why your degree doesn't have to determine your future • The mindset required to reinvent yourself repeatedly If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to change careers, this conversation is for you.

Starting a Business at 50: The Fear, Doubt, and Leap of Faith

What would make someone leave a stable, successful career at 50 to start over? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Evan Tsai about the leap so many people think about but few actually take. After nearly two decades working across IT, audit, compliance, cybersecurity, and risk management, our guest reached a breaking point: burnout. Instead of doubling down on the path he knew, he chose uncertainty and launched his own GRC company. He's not sharing a story of overnight success. He's sharing what it's like to start over without having all the answers. We discuss: • Burnout and redefining success • The fear of leaving stability behind • Entrepreneurship later in life • Imposter syndrome and self-doubt • Balancing ambition with family • Finding purpose in a new chapter

How a Social Engineer Overcame Imposter Syndrome

Rosa Rowles never planned on a career in cybersecurity. After starting in hospitality, working challenging schedules, and struggling to find the right career fit, she discovered an unexpected path through psychology, human behavior, and social engineering. In this episode of Authentically Cyber, Rosa shares her journey from introvert to social engineer, the emotional challenges she faced along the way, and how she used social engineering techniques on herself to overcome self-doubt and impostor syndrome. We discuss confidence, public speaking, career transitions, work-life balance, and practical advice for anyone interested in social engineering or breaking into cybersecurity from a non-traditional background.

Got The Cybersecurity Interview. Now What?

After months of applications, rejection, silence, and self-doubt… the phone finally rings. Now what? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Daniel Lowrie to talk about the reality of interviewing in today’s cybersecurity and tech job market. From handling nerves and rebuilding confidence to navigating difficult questions and standing out authentically, this is a real conversation about what happens after you finally get the call. We also break down: What interviews feel like right now in cyber and tech Common mistakes candidates make How to respond when confidence has taken a hit Ways to prepare without sounding overly rehearsed The importance of authenticity, communication, and mindset How to handle rejection and keep moving forward This isn’t about “perfect answers.” It’s about learning how to show up again after setbacks and give yourself the best chance possible when opportunity finally arrives.

Tech Layoffs and Self Doubt

Getting laid off or being let go doesn’t just affect your career. It can affect your confidence, your identity, and the way you see yourself. In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Daniel Lowrie to talk honestly about the emotional side of layoffs, rejection, self-doubt, and trying to move forward when your confidence takes a hit. A lot of people in cybersecurity and tech are struggling quietly right now. Behind the résumés, applications, and LinkedIn posts are real people questioning themselves and wondering what comes next. This conversation is for them. If you’ve ever tied your worth to your work, felt defeated after rejection, or struggled to rebuild confidence after a setback, you’re not alone. Subscribe for more conversations about the human side of cybersecurity, tech, and career growth.

Cybersecurity Is Hard Right Now. Don’t Quit.

The cybersecurity job market feels incredibly difficult right now. People are discouraged, burned out, questioning themselves, and wondering if they’re falling behind. After speaking at BSides Tampa, several people approached me to thank me for one specific slide: the reminder that other people may not believe in your vision — and that you still have to keep going anyway. In this solo episode of Authentically Cyber, I talk about navigating difficult seasons, surviving career uncertainty, finding support systems, and why persistence matters more than people realize. If you’ve been struggling lately, this episode is for you.

Season 1

From Social Work to AI, Governance, and Security in 3 Years

What does it take to pivot from social work into AI governance and cybersecurity in just three years? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Sabrina, an AI, Governance, and Security Consultant, to talk about her unconventional path into tech and how curiosity, networking, and persistence helped accelerate her career. We discuss how she went from studying social work to diving headfirst into cybersecurity and AI, the importance of building relationships, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why communication skills matter just as much as technical knowledge. Sabrina also shares insight into her current work in AI governance and practical advice for anyone wondering where to begin learning AI today. Whether you're coming from a non-traditional background or trying to figure out your next step in cyber or AI, this conversation is packed with honest insight and encouragement. ⏱️ Timecodes 0:00 Introduction 1:20 From Social Work to Technology 2:26 Going down the technology rabbit hole 3:00 Why AI, Governance, and Security 3:35 Bootcamp and Networking 3:53 First role in Cyber 4:41 Sabrina’s take on imposter syndrome 5:25 The moment she knew she was going into Cyber 6:51 Sabrina gets noticed 10:26 Networking 14:45 Importance of knowing how to speak to all people when networking 17:46 The 4C’s of Success 22:00 Getting into AI and Cyber in 3 years 23:50 Current role as an AI, Governance, and Security Consultant 25:40 How to begin studying AI 27:15 How to connect with Sabrina

1 of 2