Season 1 of SOC Unlocked has been a journey through the dynamic and ever-changing world of cybersecurity. With host Mick Leach as our guide, we explored cutting-edge advancements in the SOC, shared powerful stories, and celebrated the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to protect organizations from evolving threats. In this special finale episode, we take a moment to reflect on the stories and lessons that shaped our first season. From the transformative role of AI in defending against modern cyberattacks to the importance of collaboration and mentorship, this episode revisits the moments that inspired, educated, and entertained.
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Purpose-Driven Cybersecurity: Collaboration and Community Focus with Nikki Milburn
In the latest episode of SOC Unlocked, host Mick Leach sits down with Nikki Milburn, Franklin County’s Chief Information Security Officer, who rose from an unexpected start to become a leader of a dynamic security team. Nikki unveils her strategies for safeguarding essential public infrastructure, navigating the intense speed of cyber threats, and empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Discover how Nikki’s commitment to community and collaboration drives her approach to security and keeps public services resilient against the latest threats.
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38:53
From Law Enforcement to Cyber Defender: Lessons in Security and Resilience with Aaron Roane
In the latest episode of SOC Unlocked, host Mick Leach sits down with Aaron Roane, SOC Manager at Ensemble Health, who delves into his journey from law enforcement to cybersecurity, a career path driven by a passion for defending others. Reflecting on lessons learned along the way, Aaron discusses the role of continuous learning, the value of documentation, and the necessity of a supportive, knowledge-sharing culture in security operations. His insights on the emerging challenges from AI, quantum computing, and sophisticated phishing tactics highlight the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. Aaron also shares valuable advice for new entrants: “Don’t be afraid to ask questions,” a philosophy that encourages both humility and resilience in the face of an ever-changing threat landscape.
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Training for the Digital Battlefield: A Black Belt Approach to Cybersecurity with Michael Vetri
In the latest episode of SOC Unlocked, host Mick Leach sits down with Mike Vetri, Director of Security Operations at a healthcare tech company, to discuss his unique path from Air Force pilot training to becoming a leader in cybersecurity. Mike reflects on the mindset required to thrive in the constantly evolving field of cyber defense, drawing from his military background and his experience leading critical operations in both government and private sectors. He highlights the importance of continuous learning, comparing cybersecurity to martial arts—where you need to “train like a black belt” to stay ahead of adversaries. Mike also shares valuable insights on managing high-stress incidents, the need for cross-training within security teams, and why setting boundaries with leadership during a cyber crisis is crucial.
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Lessons in Persistence and Progress: Navigating the Path from IT to Cybersecurity with Joe South
In this episode of SOC Unlocked: Tales from the Cybersecurity Frontline, host and SOC expert Mick Leach sits down with Joe South, a seasoned cybersecurity expert and Principal Cloud Security Engineer, to explore his career journey and insights into the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity. Joe shares his path from starting in IT to eventually transitioning into the cybersecurity field, offering valuable advice for anyone looking to break into the industry. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the importance of persistence in the face of rejection, recounts a memorable incident involving a password rotation issue that caused significant disruption, and highlights the crucial role of effective communication and thorough testing in preventing such mishaps. For those aspiring to enter cybersecurity, Joe also provides practical guidance, from building a home lab to continuous learning and earning essential certifications. Tune in to learn more.
About SOC Unlocked: Tales from the Cybersecurity Frontline
The SOC Unlocked podcast unites SOC cybersecurity professionals in an immersive podcast experience, delving into cutting-edge industry insights, forecasting emerging cyber threats, and equipping listeners with actionable strategies to safeguard their organizations in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
South Africa