
Identity at the Center
Identity at the Center is a weekly podcast all about identity security in the context of identity and access management (IAM). With decades of real-world IAM experience, hosts Jim McDonald and Jeff Steadman bring you conversations with news, topics, and guests from the identity management industry. Do you know who has access to what?
Latest episodes

Dec 4, 2024 • 47min
#321 - Sponsor Spotlight - MightyID
In this special Sponsor Spotlight episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, host Jim McDonald welcomes Chris Steinke from MightyID. Chris shares insights into identity as a valuable asset and its versatility as a security mechanism. The discussion delves into MightyID's unique features, focusing on IAM resilience including backup, recovery, migration, failover, and the Change360 capability. Jim and Chris also touch on the importance of resilience learned from personal experiences like youth sports coaching. The episode wraps up with a look at MightyID’s plans for future development and their presence at the upcoming Gartner IAM Summit.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
01:02 Sponsor Spotlight: MightyID
02:35 Chris Steinke's Journey into IAM
04:32 Understanding MightyID's Solutions
06:57 The Importance of Resiliency in IAM
10:29 Exploring MightyID's Unique Features
25:15 Change360: A Powerful Investigative Tool
27:45 Measuring Success with MightyID
30:39 MightyID's Resiliency and Future Plans
36:53 Gartner IAM Summit and Closing Remarks
Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-steinke-exec/
Learn more about MightyID: https://www.mightyid.com/idac
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at idacpodcast.com and watch at https://www.youtube.com/@idacpodcast

Dec 2, 2024 • 23min
#320 - Authenticate 204 - FIDO Feud
In this special episode of Identity at the Center, hosts Jim McDonald and Jeff Steadman kick off the inaugural FIDO Feud—a game show packed with fun and informative challenges about digital identity. Team Glitterati, led by Megan Shamas, and Team Identifriends, led by Jim, face off in a series of rounds centered around common passwords, identity trends, and future threats to IAM. Enjoy witty banter, audience interaction, and a spirited competition, all while diving deep into the world of Identity and Access Management.
Special thanks to the FIDO Alliance and RSM US LLP for making this special event possible!
00:00 Introduction to Identity at the Center
00:20 Welcome to FIDO Feud
01:18 Meet the Team Captains
01:47 Team Names and Random Members
02:46 Game Rules and Setup
04:22 Round 1: Easy-to-Guess Passwords
07:37 Round 2: Tired Trends in IAM
11:44 IAM Metrics Showdown
12:22 Successful Logins and Password Resets
13:04 User Satisfaction and Breaches
13:44 Enrollment and Abandon Rate
14:33 Final IAM Metrics
15:45 Biggest Future Threats to IAM
17:29 Unexpected Answers and Final Round
21:16 Winners and Closing Remarks
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com

Nov 25, 2024 • 1h 17min
#319 - Identity Security & Cyber Resilience with David Mahdi of Transmit Security
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, Jim McDonald is joined by guest David Mahdi, CIO at Transmit Security and former Gartner analyst. The discussion delves into the challenges of identity security and the necessity of transitioning from IAM to identity security to mitigate privacy, fraud, and scam risks. They explore the convergence of cybersecurity and identity, the rise of non-human identities, and the importance of cyber resilience. David shares insights from his global experiences and highlights the importance of behavior-based monitoring for both human and non-human identities. The episode wraps up with a lighter note as they discuss the perfect trail mix ingredients.
00:00 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
01:12 Guest Introduction: David Mahdi
02:35 The Evolution of Identity Security
04:13 The Importance of Identity Security
05:26 David Mahdi's Journey in Identity Security
07:20 Challenges in Identity and Access Management
10:10 The Role of Machine Learning in Identity Security
12:19 The Future of Identity Security
22:52 The Need for Convergence in Identity and Security Teams
33:01 Non-Human Identities and Their Management
41:00 Defining Roles and Responsibilities
41:46 Ignoring Non-Human Accounts
42:38 Emerging Threats and Risk Management
44:33 The Importance of Identity Security
46:46 Cyber Resilience in Modern Organizations
49:24 Cloud Services and Backup Plans
51:26 Ransomware and Data Access Governance
54:27 The Future of Identity Security
01:07:53 Trail Mix and Lighter Notes
01:14:32 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events
Connect with David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmahdi/
Learn more about Transmit Security: https://transmitsecurity.com/
Gartner IAM Summit - Save $375 on registration using our exclusive code IDAC375: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/identity-access-management-us
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com
Keywords: Identity Security, IAM, Cyber Resilience, Machine Identity, Non-Human Identity, Digital Transformation, Cloud Security, Zero Trust, Data Breach, Risk Management, ITDR, MFA Fatigue, Deepfakes, Gen AI, Copilot, Claude AI, Decentralized Identity, Quantum Computing, Ransomware, Data Access Governance, Transmit Security, Gartner IAM Summit, FIDO Authenticate Conference.

Nov 18, 2024 • 50min
#318 - SailPoint Navigate 2024 - SSF, CAEP, RISC, and SCIM Events with SailPoint’s Mike Kiser
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jim McDonald and Jeff Steadman delve into the significance of shared signals in identity and access management (IAM). Featuring Mike Kiser, Director of Strategy and Standards at SailPoint, the discussion spans Kiser's career journey from IBM to SailPoint, the importance of standards and security in IAM, and the influence of AI on authenticity. The episode highlights the Shared Signals Framework, drawing parallels to cooperative dolphins and fishermen, and underscores the benefits of a standardized approach to signal sharing. The conversation also touches on the challenges and potential of event-based architectures and the evolving role of identity in cybersecurity.
00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts
02:50 Conference and Discount Codes
05:33 Guest Introduction and Background
11:31 AI and Authenticity
15:21 Shared Signals Framework
25:40 Decentralized Identity Management
26:28 Real-Time Identity Data Sharing
27:55 Developing Identity Standards
29:19 Vendor Collaboration and Challenges
31:28 Event-Based Identity Architectures
33:03 The Role of Big Tech in Identity Security
39:22 Customer Demand for Identity Solutions
40:49 Identity Security and Digital Identity
42:47 Technology vs. Humanity: A Musical Perspective
48:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-kiser/
Learn more about SailPoint: https://www.sailpoint.com/
SailPoint Navigate 2024 London - Use code IDAC for a £300 discount - https://www.sailpoint.com/navigate/london
Semperis’ Hybrid Identity Protection Conference (HIP Conf) - Use code IDACpod for 20% off: https://www.hipconf.com/
Gartner IAM Summit - Save $375 on registration using our exclusive code IDAC375: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/identity-access-management-us
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com
🔑 Episode Keywords
Identity Management, Shared Signals Framework, Continuous Access Evaluation Protocol, Risk Assessment, Information Sharing, Identity Security, Authentication, AI And Identity, Digital Identity, Identity Fabric, Identity Ecosystem, IAM Standards, Cybersecurity, Technology And Humanity, Event-Based Architecture, RSM, SailPoint Navigate 2024, Gartner IAM Summit, Authenticate Conference, Identity Backstories

Nov 13, 2024 • 56min
#317 - Sponsor Spotlight - Strivacity
In this sponsored episode of the Identity at the Center podcast brought to you by Strivacity, Jeff and Jim welcome Stephen Cox, co-founder and CTO of Strivacity, to discuss the evolving landscape of identity management. The conversation covers Strivacity's unique approach to customer identity and access management (CIAM), the importance of isolation by design for security, and the integration of generative AI into their platform. Stephen shares insights on how Strivacity differentiates itself in the market, the recognition from Gartner, and the challenges of implementing AI in identity management systems. They discuss the evolving landscape of AI, particularly in relation to data access, security, and identity management. Also explored is the balance between leveraging AI for business insights and the potential threats it poses to data security. The discussion also touches on the future of AI technology, the challenges of governance in a rapidly changing environment, and an unexpected segue into astrophotography, highlighting the intersection of AI technology and personal interests.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Identity at the Center Podcast
01:37 Meet Steven Cox from Strivacity
02:34 Strivacity's Unique Approach to CIAM
09:27 Differentiating Consumer and Customer IAM
11:49 Strivacity's Recognition and Achievements
14:05 The Importance of Isolation by Design
15:38 Generative AI in IAM Products
21:45 Implementing AI in Strivacity's Platform
29:25 Addressing AI Hallucinations and Security Concerns
30:56 Cost Implications of AI Systems
31:50 Leveraging AI for Business Insights
34:03 Implementing AI with Security in Mind
38:53 Future of AI in Identity Space
44:48 Astrophotography Adventures
53:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Stephen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephencox/
Learn more about Strivacity: https://strivacity.ai
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at idacpodcast.com and watch at https://www.youtube.com/@idacpodcast
Keywords
Identity Management, Customer IAM, Strivacity, AI Integration, Cybersecurity, Digital Identity, Gartner Recognition, Isolation by Design, Generative AI, User Experience, AI, data security, identity management, astrophotography, technology governance

Nov 11, 2024 • 52min
#316 - Authenticate 2024 - Death and the Digital Estate with Dean Saxe
In this engaging podcast episode, hosts Jeff and Jim broadcast from the Authenticate 2024 conference in Carlsbad, California, exploring a wide range of topics. They discuss their podcast's future and share personal experiences with hurricanes. Joined by Dean Saxe, Principal Engineer at Beyond Identity and Chair of the OpenID Foundation Death & The Digital Estate Community Group, the conversation covers identity security, digital estates, and the lasting impact of digital assets. Listeners will hear about complex themes such as managing digital legacies, the evolution of digital credentials, the importance of device-bound credentials, and personal stories of career development in the IAM field. Finally, the episode ends on a lighthearted note with a nostalgic dive into favorite board games, from childhood classics to modern hits. Don't miss this multifaceted discussion that blends professional insights with personal anecdotes.
00:00 Introduction, Conference Setting, and Personal Updates
02:19 Hurricane Aftermath and Resilience
04:03 Authenticate 2024 Highlights
04:57 Upcoming Events and Case Study Teasers
05:38 Introducing Dean Saxe
06:49 Dean's Journey in Identity and Security
13:30 Death and the Digital Estate
25:08 The Risks of Relying on Cloud Services
25:35 Legacy Contacts and Digital Estate Planning
28:15 Respecting Cultural Differences in Digital Death
29:04 Empowerment Through Consent and Choice
29:56 Interoperability and Accessibility in Digital Estates
30:25 Legal and Regulatory Considerations
32:20 The Importance of a Digital Living Will
33:21 Challenges and Future Directions
33:54 The Role of AI in Digital Estates
39:14 Getting Involved in the Digital Estate Community
44:33 Board Games and Lighthearted Farewells
50:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Dean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanhsaxe/
Learn more about Beyond Identity: https://www.beyondidentity.com/
Death and the Digital Estate (DADE) Community Group: https://openid.net/cg/death-and-the-digital-estate/
Gartner IAM Summit - Save $375 on registration using our exclusive code IDAC375: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/identity-access-management-us
Semperis’ Hybrid Identity Protection Conference (HIP Conf) - Use code IDACpod for 20% off: https://www.hipconf.com/
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com

Nov 4, 2024 • 41min
#315 - Authenticate 2024 - Data Privacy & Accessibility with Tina Srivastava
In this compelling episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim invite you to explore the evolving landscape of privacy, identity, and data security. Featuring insights from industry expert Tina Srivastava, co-founder of Badge, they delve into the pressing issue of data breaches and the innovative technologies designed to combat them, including privacy-preserving biometric systems and public key conversion. Discover the potential of these solutions to revolutionize identity security, the importance of GDPR, and the critical need for inclusive, accessible digital identity systems. The discussion highlights the balance between convenience and privacy while addressing the responsibilities of device manufacturers, telecom companies, and app developers. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about national security, phishing-resistant authentication, and the role of technology in safeguarding our digital identities. Plus, get a glimpse of the social side of tech conferences with a fun recap of Authenticate 2024's karaoke night and a heartfelt thank you to the episode's sponsors and supporters.00:00 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast02:22 Conference Highlights and Casual Banter05:05 Main Topic: Identity and Security with Tina Srivastava08:50 Badge: Revolutionizing Identity Verification12:01 Challenges and Innovations in Identity Security22:08 Reflecting on Domestic Abuse and Digital Identity23:16 Accessibility and Inclusivity in Technology25:48 The Battle for Privacy and Identity29:18 The Future of Seamless Identity Verification35:41 Karaoke Fun at Authenticate Conference39:25 Wrapping Up and Final ThoughtsConnect with Tina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-s-8291438a/Learn more about Badge: https://www.badgeinc.com/Gartner IAM Summit - Save $375 on registration using our exclusive code IDAC375: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/identity-access-management-usSemperis’ Hybrid Identity Protection Conference (HIP Conf) - Use code IDACpod for 20% off: https://www.hipconf.com/Connect with us on LinkedIn:Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com

Oct 31, 2024 • 60min
#314 - Sponsor Spotlight - Semperis
This episode is sponsored by Semperis: semperis.com
In this sponsored episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim discuss the changing landscape of ransomware attacks and the importance of identity security with Gil Kirkpatrick, Chief Architect at Semperis. They explore how ransomware strategies have evolved from merely encrypting data to exfiltrating sensitive information for ransom. The conversation also delves into the necessity of having robust identity recovery plans, the role of Active Directory in cybersecurity, and the importance of regular security posture assessments with tools like Purple Knight. Additionally, Gil shares insights from the Semperis Ransomware Risk Report and recounts his experiences as a pilot, offering a fascinating look at both cybersecurity and the world of aviation.
00:00 Introduction to Ransomware Evolution
01:25 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
01:53 Guest Introduction: Gil Kirkpatrick from Semperis
02:25 Journey into the Identity Space
06:09 Semperis: Enhancing Security and Resilience
21:08 The Importance of Active Directory Security
28:09 Ransomware Risk Report Insights
32:15 The Trustworthiness of Decryption Keys
34:18 Business Disruption from Ransomware
36:14 Should Companies Pay the Ransom?
38:47 The Importance of Cyber Resilience
41:14 Active Directory and Disaster Recovery
43:17 The Decline in Ransomware News
47:36 The Basics of Cybersecurity
50:31 Adventures in Piloting
58:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Gil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gil-kirkpatrick/
Learn more about Semperis: https://www.semperis.com/
2024 Ransomware Risk Report: Embracing the Assume Breach Mindset: ttps://www.semperis.com/ransomware-risk-report/
Download Purple Knight: https://www.semperis.com/purple-knight/
Hybrid Identity Protection Conference (HIP Conf) - Use code IDACpod for 20% off: https://register.hipconf.com/W7eVML
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at idacpodcast.com

Oct 28, 2024 • 52min
#313 - SailPoint Navigate 2024 - Identity Product Management with SailPoint’s Andrew Moore
In this special episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, recorded live from the SailPoint Navigate 2024 conference in Orlando, hosts Jeff and Jim engage with Andrew Moore, VP of Product Management at SailPoint. The conversation spans a variety of critical themes, including the management of identity platforms, product development, and the importance of customer feedback. Andrew details his career journey, including his transition from Under Armour to SailPoint, and shares insights into the development of connected products, data-driven design, and user experience enhancements. The episode also introduces the latest innovations, such as Privileged Task Automation and Machine Identity Security, emphasizing their potential to address productivity and security risks. Furthermore, the speakers discuss the transformative role of AI in Identity Governance and Administration (IGA), highlighting the importance of explainable AI and maintaining strong security standards. This episode is a deep dive into the dynamic landscape of identity governance and the strategies driving continuous innovation.
00:00 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
01:55 Conference Insights and Future Plans
03:38 Introducing Andrew Moore
03:52 Andrew Moore's Journey into Identity
06:48 Product Management at SailPoint
16:48 Innovative Projects and Customer Feedback
23:17 Exploring Low Code and No Code Identity Automations
23:53 Understanding Customer Feedback and Research Techniques
24:41 Balancing Positive and Negative Feedback
00:24 Dealing with Critical Feedback
29:34 Announcing the Product Roadmap
30:37 Privileged Task Automation: A Game Changer
39:11 Machine Identity Security: New Innovations
42:33 The Future of AI in Identity Governance
47:12 Addressing Concerns About AI in IGA
50:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Andrew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardandrewmoore/
Learn more about SailPoint: https://www.sailpoint.com/
SailPoint Navigate 2024 London - Use code IDAC for a £300 discount - https://www.sailpoint.com/navigate/london
Semperis’ Hybrid Identity Protection Conference (HIP Conf) - Use code IDACpod for 20% off: https://www.hipconf.com/
Gartner IAM Summit - Save $375 on registration using our exclusive code IDAC375: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/identity-access-management-us
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com
🔑 Episode Keywords
Identity Governance, Sailpoint, Product Management, Innovation Workshop, Ai In Iga, Ux Design, Machine Identity Security, Privileged Task Automation, Customer Feedback, Product Roadmap, Orlando Conference, Bill Gates Quote, Data Privacy, Under Armour, Wearable Technology, User Experience, Cybersecurity Trends, Enterprise Applications, Saas Platform, Identity Security

Oct 21, 2024 • 38min
#312 - Authenticate 2024 - Kim Cameron Award Winner Grace Klutke
In this comprehensive episode, Jeff and Jim broadcast from the Authenticate 2024 conference in San Diego, uncovering the deep connection between technology and human rights with an emphasis on inclusivity and ethical considerations in digital identity advancements. Hear from Grace Klutke, the Kim Cameron Award winner, about her remarkable journey from law to digital identity. Dive into discussions with Ian Glazer and Arynn Crow of the Digital Identity Advancement Foundation (DIAF) on the foundation's mission, mentorship programs, and the significance of legacy awards like the Kim Cameron and Vittorio Bertucci Awards. Explore interdisciplinary approaches to digital identity encompassing technical, legal, and social engineering perspectives. Gain insights into AI's role, data governance, and the unique culture of the digital identity community. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted segment on conference experiences, attire, and industry swag. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and check out our links in the show notes!
00:00 Introduction: Identity at the Center Podcast Begins
03:00 Upcoming Conferences and Events
03:54 Introducing the Guests: Grace, Arynn, and Ian
05:09 Grace's Journey to the Kim Cameron Award
07:13 Digital Identity Advancement Foundation (DIAF)
09:43 The Importance of Standards and Awards
17:35 The Role of Legal Background in Digital Identity
18:02 Legal Perspectives on Digital Identity
18:59 The Intersection of Law and Technology
21:20 Challenges and Future Directions
23:23 Mentorship and Career Advice
24:11 AI and Identity Data
27:54 Conference Insights and Reflections
35:23 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans
Connect with Grace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-klutke-3ba8a1228/
Connect with Arynn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arynn-crow-821761103/
Connect with Ian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iglazer
Learn more about DIAF: https://digitalidadvancement.org/
Gartner IAM Summit - Save $375 on registration using our exclusive code IDAC375: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/identity-access-management-us
Semperis’ Hybrid Identity Protection Conference (HIP Conf) - Use code IDACpod for 20% off: https://www.hipconf.com/
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/
Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/
Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com and watch at http://idacpodcast.tv