Chasing Entropy Podcast Episode 013: Jack Daniel: A Life in Security, Sock Puppets, and Community-Building

Jul 22, 2025

Jack Daniel, a legendary storyteller and community-builder, shares his incredible journey from mechanic to cybersecurity strategist. He recounts humorous tales from his early days tinkering with cars, before navigating into tech by chance. The heart of the conversation focuses on the founding of BSides, a community-centered security movement that empowers local talent worldwide. Jack also discusses his unique presentation style with sock puppets, all while emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and authentic engagement in fostering connections.

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ANECDOTE

From Mechanic to Tech Manager

Jack Daniel started as a mechanic and became a parts manager due to necessity and curiosity.
He learned computing on the job without resources, evolving into managing all computers at multiple dealerships.

INSIGHT

Learning Security Through Necessity

Early exposure to security came from connecting computers to the internet during the 90s.
Community support was vital in navigating technology and security challenges without formal resources.

ANECDOTE

From User Groups to Conferences

Jack began giving talks at local user groups and helped steer meetup events.
This introduced him to community building and larger conference involvement.

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In this heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation on the Chasing Entropy Podcast, I get to sit down with my friend, legendary storyteller, and community-builder Jack Daniel to trace a truly unique career journey, one that spans grease-stained garages, green-screen terminals, the early internet, and the global expansion of the BSides movement.

From Mechanic to Cybersecurity Strategist

Jack shares stories from his earliest days, working in auto repair, navigating the oddities of the Renault parts system, and unexpectedly becoming the "computer guy" because no one else would do it. It’s a masterclass in accidental career pivots driven by curiosity, necessity, and grit.

Building Communities and Hacking Conferences

One of the most inspiring parts of this episode is Jack’s account of the founding and evolution of BSides, the community-led security conference series. What began as a scrappy rebellion against corporate conference gatekeeping has now blossomed into over 1,150 events in more than 60 countries from Mexico City to Canberra, with passionate organizers creating space for local talent and untold stories.

Jack reflects humbly on his role in that movement, describing himself as a “cheerleader” and “uncle” to a vast family of hackers. But it’s clear: his vision, mentorship, and love for the community helped make it all possible.

Sock Puppets, Imposter Syndrome, and Speaking with Heart

The conversation also touches on Jack’s unique presentation style, including sock puppets and tuxedos, and the philosophy behind it. For Jack, great talks aren’t about ego; they’re about earning the audience’s attention. He champions the kind of speaker who walks on stage thinking, “Wow, they want to hear from me? I owe them everything.”

Highlights

The evolution from mechanic to firewall evangelist
Tales of early infosec user groups, ShmooCon, and BSides Vegas
Community resilience in places like India, Brazil, Australia, and Kathmandu
The human side of hacker culture: burnout, mentorship, and shared grief
Why passion and participation, not polish, make a great speaker

Quote of the Episode:

“If you get 26 people in a room somewhere that has no other options, you’re making a more profound impact on that community than you’ll ever realize.”

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