
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

Oct 14, 2024 • 59min
#311 - Navigating Identity Management and Cyber Insurance with Brandon Pinzon
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, Jim McDonald speaks with Brandon Pinzon, an Insurance Industry Cybersecurity Executive, about the evolving landscape of identity management. They discuss Brandon's journey into digital identity, the role of identity management within organizations, and the unique challenges faced by the insurance industry. The conversation also delves into the intersection of compliance and security, highlighting the importance of understanding risk in the identity space. In this conversation, Brandon discusses the critical relationship between risk management and compliance in cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of understanding and quantifying risk. He explores the evolving landscape of cyber insurance, highlighting the need for identity practitioners to be proactive in managing risks and building relationships with financial stakeholders. The discussion also touches on the necessity of cyber insurance for various organizations and concludes with insights into the vibrant cybersecurity community in San Antonio.
00:00 Podcast Introduction and Host Update
01:23 Upcoming Conferences and Discount Codes
02:29 Guest Introduction: Brandon Pinzon
03:02 Brandon's Identity Origin Story
05:25 Debate: Where Does Identity Management Belong?
13:45 Pros and Cons of CISO Responsibility for Identity
21:16 Identity in the Insurance Industry
29:52 Addressing Legacy Systems in Financial Institutions
31:38 Compliance vs. Security in Financial Services
35:33 Understanding and Quantifying Risk
38:33 The Role of Cyber Insurance
54:28 San Antonio: A Hub for Cybersecurity
Connect with Brandon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bpinzon/
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 https://www.youtube.com/@idacpodcast
Keywords
identity management, cybersecurity, insurance industry, compliance, digital identity, CISO, identity governance, user experience, risk management, financial services, risk management, compliance, cyber insurance, identity management, cybersecurity, threat modeling, risk assessment, business continuity, data protection, security strategy

Oct 7, 2024 • 1h 5min
#310 - Personhood Credentials with Eve Maler
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, Jim McDonald is joined by Eve Maler to explore a provocative topic—"Consent is Dead." Eve shares insights from her recent keynote at the European Identity and Cloud Conference (EIC) in Berlin, where she unpacked the failures of consent-based systems in protecting user privacy. They discuss why the "I agree" button has lost its meaning, even in regions with strong data protection laws like GDPR, and how users' personal information is monetized through identity resolution technologies.
Eve reveals how identity professionals often overlook the world of identity resolution, which operates without a direct relationship with users. She emphasizes the importance of IAM professionals understanding the deep monetization of personal data and the critical need to improve systems of privacy, consent, and security. They also touch on the role of AI in authorization decisions and the balance between explainability and automation in future IAM systems.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context
03:01 Eve Maler's Journey in Identity
09:53 Exploring Personhood and Verifiable Credentials
12:52 Identity Verification and AI Threats
25:13 The State of Consent in Digital Identity
30:42 GDPR and Its Implications
39:53 The Future of AI in IAM
45:05 AuthZen Working Group Update
55:23 Non-Human Identities and IoT
01:02:52 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions
01:04:03 Fingerprint City Outro.mp4
Connect with Eve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evemaler/
Venn Factory: https://www.vennfactory.com/
Personhood: The Killer Credential? (blog by Eve): https://workshop.vennfactory.com/p/personhood-the-killer-credential
Death and the Digital Estate (blog by Eve): https://workshop.vennfactory.com/p/death-and-the-digital-estate
From Chance to Control (blog by Eve): https://workshop.vennfactory.com/p/from-chance-to-control
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 https://www.youtube.com/@idacpodcast

Oct 2, 2024 • 42min
#309 - IDAC Sponsor Spotlight - Token Security
In this Token Identity sponsored episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim welcome Ido Shlomo, co-founder and CTO of Token Security, to discuss the vital and often overlooked topic of non-human identities or machine identities within organizations. The conversation covers how machine identities differ from human identities, the unique challenges they pose, and how Token Security aims to address these issues. Ido shares his personal journey into the cyber-security field, real-life case studies, and details about Token Security's approach to managing and securing machine identities. The episode also delves into the implementation and ROI of their solution and touches on lighter topics like online gaming.
00:00 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
03:14 Guest Introduction: Ido Shlomo from Token Security
03:35 Ido Shlomo's Journey into Identity Security
06:04 Understanding Token Security's Mission
07:37 Challenges in Machine Identity Management
10:08 Defining Non-Human Identity
11:32 The Story Behind Token Security's Name
13:35 Token Security's Unique Value Proposition
20:20 Real-Life Case Study: The Importance of Non-Human Identity Security
22:05 Narrowing Down the Machines
22:15 Identifying the Compromised Machine
22:26 GitHub Report and API Key
22:34 Event Resolution and Success
22:39 Human vs Non-Human Identity
22:56 Technology Differences and Case Study
23:23 Implementing the Solution
23:46 Philosophy of Software Development
24:28 Integration and Deployment
26:09 Building an Inventory
26:31 Reducing Risk and Lifecycle Process
28:05 Attribution and Data Collection
30:02 Learning More and ROI
34:22 Online Gaming and Personal Insights
34:47 Gaming Personas and Preferences
36:34 Gaming Memories and Character Classes
40:33 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
Connect with Ido: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ido--shlomo/
Learn more about Token Security: https://www.token.security/?utm_medium=idac&utm_source=website&utm_campaign=Sep_podcast&utm_content=sponsor_page
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

Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 3min
#308 - The Business Case for IAM with IDPro Andre Koot
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, Jeff and Jim discuss how to make the business case for IAM and determining the return on investment (ROI). Joined by Andre Koot, they delve into the need for a compelling business case to drive IAM investments. The conversation covers the quantitative and qualitative aspects of ROI, and the importance of stakeholder communication.
00:00 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
01:39 Training and Professional Development in IAM
03:58 Upcoming Conferences and Events
07:51 The Business Case for IAM
12:51 IAM: Financial and Non-Financial Perspectives
23:08 Calculating Return on Investment in IAM
28:59 Hard Dollars vs. Soft Dollars
30:11 Dollarizing Non-Savings Benefits
31:40 Challenges in ROI Calculations
34:07 Quantifiable vs. Non-Quantifiable Benefits
37:14 ROI in Different Organizational Contexts
39:50 Insourcing vs. Outsourcing
49:02 Communicating ROI Effectively
54:10 Language Nuances and Cultural Context
01:01:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Andre: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meneer/
The Business Case for IAM (IDPro): https://bok.idpro.org/article/id/97/
Strategic Alignment and Access Governance (IDPro): ****https://bok.idpro.org/article/id/90/
Authenticate Conference - Use code IDAC15 for 15% off: https://authenticatecon.com/event/authenticate-2024-conference/
SailPoint Navigate - October 21-24 in Orlando, FL - Use code IDAC for a $400 discount
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 https://www.youtube.com/@idacpodcast

Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 21min
#307 - Creating an IAM Program
In this comprehensive episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim explore the foundations and sustainability of effective Identity and Access Management (IAM) programs. They delve into the essential elements of setting up an IAM program, including the importance of executive buy-in, phased implementation strategies, the significance of governance, and adapting to evolving business needs. The discussion also emphasizes the need for continuous enhancements and future-proofing IAM systems by budgeting for updates and choosing dependable managed service partners. Practical advice is offered throughout, ensuring listeners have the tools to start and maintain a successful IAM program. The episode wraps up with a recap of ten crucial steps for IAM implementation and lighter conversations about recent personal trips.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup
01:30 Technical Difficulties and Recording Challenges
04:23 Conferences and Upcoming Events
05:55 Starting an IAM Program
10:34 Assessing Current IAM Capabilities
22:37 Building a Cross-Functional IAM Team
30:56 Choosing the Right IAM Technology
43:02 Starting with Phase One
43:44 Planning for Compliance and Cyber Insurance
46:25 User Experience in IAM Implementation
49:18 Workforce vs. Customer Identity Management
57:46 Governance, Policies, and Metrics
01:09:31 Maintaining and Evolving IAM Programs
01:16:03 Final Thoughts and Recap
Authenticate Conference - Use code IDAC15 for 15% off: https://authenticatecon.com/event/authenticate-2024-conference/
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 https://www.youtube.com/@idacpodcast

Sep 19, 2024 • 48min
#306 - Sponsor Spotlight - Panini
In this sponsored episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, brought to you by Panini, hosts Jeff and Jim interview Marta Nappo, the Strategic Marketing and Business Development Director at Panini. Marta discusses Panini's evolution from a leading check scanner company to entering the identity verification market with their new solution called BioCred. Panini, a company with 79 years of history, is launching a patented method for biometric credential verification aimed at financial services and healthcare sectors, among others. Marta shares insights into Panini's approach to privacy by not storing personal data on servers and highlights the potential of their cloud-based infrastructure to integrate into customer workflows. The conversation touches on the benefits of reliable biometric authentication in reducing fraud, improving customer experience, and enhancing operational efficiency. They also explore use cases in financial services, healthcare, and more.
00:00 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
02:44 Meet Marta Nappo
03:02 Marta's Career Journey
05:20 Panini's New Identity Solution: BioCred
06:11 Global Expansion and Market Presence
08:18 Identity Verification Challenges and Solutions
11:58 Privacy and Data Security
15:28 Future of Identity Verification
21:58 Customer Feedback and Future Plans
25:01 Initial Impressions and Expectations
25:26 Lowering Barriers and Building Trust
26:07 Market Growth and Challenges
27:05 Real-World Use Cases
28:05 Identity Verification in Various Sectors
35:24 Measuring Success and Benefits
38:53 Volleyball and Life Lessons
45:24 Fun with Volleyball and Dogs
46:47 Conclusion and Farewell
Learn more about Panini: https://www.panini.com/
Connect with Marta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martanappo/
Dog playing volleyball: https://youtube.com/shorts/QSCMJQo6kps?si=CN-2lGTEx0T4nBAC
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

Sep 16, 2024 • 57min
#305 - Identity Week America with Ryan Galluzzo of NIST
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, Jeff and Jim are live at the Identity Week America conference in Washington, DC. Welcoming Ryan Galluzzo, Identity Management Program Lead at NIST, they dive into recent NIST updates, including a mobile driver's license project, changes in public comment and revision processes, and the significance of user-controlled wallets. They also touch on self-sovereign identity, risk management, evolution in identity assurance levels, and the vital role of continuous evaluation and improvement. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion on the inquisitive nature of children and the spontaneous, enriching conversations that happen at industry conferences.
00:00 Welcome to Identity at the Center Podcast
01:26 Conference Highlights and Networking
02:47 Panel Discussions and Key Takeaways
05:07 Mobile Driver's License Project
07:09 Public Comment Draft and Feedback
11:40 Self-Sovereign Identity and Trust Issues
16:41 NIST Guidance and Risk Management
28:47 Introduction to RMF and Assurance Levels
29:05 Contextualizing Assurance Levels for Different Users
30:25 Continuous Evaluation and Improvement
34:28 User-Controlled Wallets and Federation
35:59 Account Recovery and Assurance Levels
37:18 Overview of NIST 800-63 Documents
51:25 Existential Questions and Personal Anecdotes
55:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-galluzzo-a100563b/
Authenticate Conference - Use code IDAC15 for 15% off: https://authenticatecon.com/event/authenticate-2024-conference/
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 https://www.youtube.com/@idacpodcast

Sep 9, 2024 • 46min
#304 - Identity and Cybersecurity Insights with United Airlines' CISO Deneen DeFiore
Deneen DeFiore, Chief Information Security Officer at United Airlines, shares her journey from General Electric to managing customer identity in aviation. She discusses the evolution of identity management and its impact on user experience. Deneen emphasizes building high-performing teams and the balance between technical expertise and business leadership. The conversation also covers the future of identity, focusing on biometrics and AI. They lighten up with charming insights about Cincinnati's local traditions and culture.

Sep 5, 2024 • 1h 2min
#303 - IDAC Sponsor Spotlight - Zilla Security
In this sponsored episode of the Identity at the Center Podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim speak with Nitin Sonawane, Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder of Zilla Security. Nitin shares insights about disrupting the identity security and governance space with innovative solutions such as Zilla Universal Sync (ZUS) and how AI and ML can streamline and enhance access reviews and compliance. The discussion covers the evolution of identity governance, the integration challenges, and the novel approaches Zilla Security is adopting to make organizations more secure and efficient. They also touch upon the personal side, diving into Nitin's passion for astronomy and his impressive experiences with telescopic observations. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of identity governance and the potential of leveraging data for better security outcomes.
00:00 Introduction
01:21 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
01:55 Spotlight on Zilla Security
02:23 Meet Nitin Sonawane
03:36 The Role of a Chief Product Officer
04:44 Overview of Zilla Security
07:16 Challenges in Identity Governance
10:32 Innovations with Zilla Universal Sync (ZUS)
22:45 Future of AI in Identity Governance
33:16 Balancing Security and Compliance
34:43 The Role of Automation in Compliance
36:41 AI's Impact on Security and Compliance
39:14 Risk Management and Identity
40:59 Streamlining Access and Approvals
44:47 Leveraging Data for Risk Reduction
50:29 Future of Identity and AI
53:32 Astronomy and Identity
01:01:04 Conclusion and Contact Information
Connect with Nitin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitin-sonawane-0743b/
Learn more about Zilla Security: https://zillasecurity.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 idacpodcast.com and subscribe to our YouTube channel at idacpodcast.tv

Sep 2, 2024 • 52min
#302 - Authenticate 2024 Preview with Andrew Shikiar
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, Jeff and Jim discuss the intricacies of authentication with Andrew Shikiar, Executive Director and CEO of the FIDO Alliance. The conversation covers various aspects of authentication including different use cases, the importance of passkeys, and regional adoption trends. They also highlight the upcoming Authenticate 2024 conference in Carlsbad, California, emphasizing its unique value for identity experts and practitioners. Listeners are encouraged to take advantage of early bird pricing and discount codes for the event linked below.
00:00 Welcome to the Identity at the Center Podcast
01:36 Podcast Milestones and Schedule
02:42 Engaging with the Audience
04:35 Introducing the Guest: Andrew Shikiar
07:34 FIDO Alliance and Passkeys Overview
10:12 The Importance of Passwordless Authentication
18:23 Authenticate Conference Highlights
22:07 Conference Details and Registration
26:19 Networking and Conference Challenges
26:35 Session Tracks and Remote Participation
28:02 FIDO APAC Summit in Kuala Lumpur
29:38 Highlights of the Authenticate Conference
32:21 Identity Verification and Adjacent Technologies
34:28 Live Podcasts and Interactive Sessions
35:59 Fun Activities and Networking at Authenticate
39:52 Travel Experiences and Final Thoughts
Connect with Andrew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewshikiar/
Learn more about the FIDO Alliance: https://fidoalliance.org/
Authenticate Conference - Use code IDAC15 for 15% off: https://authenticatecon.com/event/authenticate-2024-conference/
FIDO Alliance Shop - https://shop.fidoalliance.org/ - Use code IDAC10 for a discount on your purchase!
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 follow @IDACPodcast on Twitter.