Balancing Education and Real-World Cybersecurity with a SOC Analyst Student

In this episode of Simply Defensive, host Josh Mason and co-host discuss their experiences and challenges in cybersecurity, along with guest Victoria, a student and SOC analyst at UNLV.

The conversation covers the complexities of building a Security Operations Center (SOC) and compares academic learning with real-world applications. Victoria shares insights from her studies and practical work, including developing a SOC program at UNLV and addressing common cybersecurity misconceptions.

The episode highlights the importance of communication, real-world projects, continuous learning, and the balance between technical and business aspects of cybersecurity.

00:00 Introduction and Host Banter
00:20 Guest Introduction: Victoria
01:03 Building a SOC: Challenges and Experiences
01:29 Education vs. Real-World Experience
02:29 SOC Class and Practical Training
03:49 Group Projects and Communication
07:14 Real-Life Incident Stories
10:33 Getting into Cybersecurity: Victoria's Journey
12:54 Business Side of Cybersecurity
16:17 The Cost of MFA and Free Alternatives
16:31 Lock Picking and Security Value
17:30 Teaching Cybersecurity Concepts
18:44 Consulting Experience for Students
19:15 Client Feedback and Confidential Reports
19:52 Challenges in Cybersecurity Projects
20:27 Transitioning into the SOC
22:34 Federal and State Regulations
26:16 Advice for Blue Teamers
28:06 Conclusion and Farewell

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Josh Mason: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuacmason/
Wade Wells: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadingthrulogs/

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