From Lockpicking to Leadership: Tabatha DiDomenico on Security, Open Source, and Building Community

In this episode of What’s in the SOSS? host Yesenia Yser sits down with open source security engineer and community leader Tabatha DiDomenico for an inspiring conversation about her unexpected path into open source, the vibrant communities behind security, and her role as president of BSides Orlando.

From discovering Netscape in the early days to shaping security strategy at G-Research and OpenSSF, Tabatha shares how her career evolved from necessity to purpose. She talks about the power of DevRel, the invisible work behind sustainable open source, and the magic of volunteering - pro-tip: working the registration table is great for networking.

Whether you're new to the ecosystem or a seasoned contributor, this episode is packed with insight, warmth, and practical advice on getting involved and staying connected.

Topics Covered:

• The accidental beginnings of an open source career
• How DevRel supports healthy OSS ecosystems
• Building internal open source culture through innersource
• The impact of local security communities like BSides
• Advice for contributing, volunteering, and thriving in open source

Chapters:
00:00  The Journey into Open Source
06:10   Current Projects and Roles in Open Source
11:57     Involvement with B-Sides Orlando
18:07    Understanding Developer Relations in Open Source
27:08   Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

Episode links:

• Tabatha DiDomenico’s LinkedIn page
• Hacker Summer Camp
• Hacker in Heels
• Security B-sides Orlando
• Security B-sides Vegas
• The Diana Initiative
• Get involved with the OpenSSF
• Subscribe to the OpenSSF newsletter
• Follow the OpenSSF on LinkedIn