
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

Aug 28, 2024 • 58min
#301 - IDAC Sponsor Spotlight - Semperis
In this sponsored episode, Jim McDonald hosts Eric Woodruff, Senior Security Researcher at Semperis, to discuss the company's approach to identity security. They delve into Semperis' tools like Purple Knight and Forest Druid, focusing on their capabilities in detecting and mitigating Active Directory and Entra ID vulnerabilities. The conversation covers the critical role of prevention and response in ITDR, the impact of ransomware on Enterprise ID infrastructures, and the importance of ensuring a trusted state in Active Directory. They also touch on the upcoming Hybrid Identity Protection Conference and its significance for industry professionals.
00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Spotlight
02:15 Eric Woodruff's Background and Role at Semperis
05:22 Importance of Active Directory in Enterprises
06:45 Threats and Vulnerabilities in Active Directory
17:21 Tools and Solutions for Active Directory Security
22:41 Hybrid Identity Protection and Upcoming Conference
40:13 Closing Thoughts and Personal Anecdotes
Learn more about Semperis: https://www.semperis.com/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericonidentity/
Meet Silver SAML: Golden SAML in the Cloud: https://www.semperis.com/blog/meet-silver-saml/
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 and follow @IDACPodcast on Twitter.

Aug 26, 2024 • 54min
#300 - Identity at the Center Defined
In episode 300 of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim celebrate their significant milestone by discussing the origins and future of the podcast. They delve into the complexities of identity management in educational settings and explore the philosophical underpinnings of the term 'identity at the center.' Highlighted questions from listeners cover topics like the effectiveness of Social Security Numbers for identity verification and the challenges of authenticating callers to the help desk. They also discuss their recent conference acceptances and plans for future episodes. The conversation shifts to the potential impacts of AI, decentralized identity, and the growing importance of identity in government services.
00:00 Introduction and Episode 300 Milestones
02:01 The Journey to YouTube
04:18 Becoming a 501c3 Nonprofit
07:18 Understanding Identity at the Center
09:37 Complexities of Identity in Education
12:43 Identity as the New Perimeter
18:20 Identity in Business and Government
27:15 Centralizing Identity Data for Success
28:21 Challenges in Higher Education IT Systems
30:01 Listener Question: Confirming Identity Over the Phone
30:31 Weaknesses in Caller Authentication
34:19 Best Practices for Identity Verification
47:48 Future of Identity and Access Management
51:23 Upcoming Conferences and Final Thoughts
IDPro Body of Knowledge - Account Recovery (v3) by Dean Saxe: https://bok.idpro.org/article/id/64/
Attending Identity Week in America or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at: http://terrapinn.com/IDWUS/Part-IDAC
Authenticate Conference - Use code IDAC15 for 15% off: https://authenticatecon.com/event/authenticate-2024-conference/
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 http://idacpodcast.com and watch at https://www.youtube.com/@idacpodcast

9 snips
Aug 19, 2024 • 1h 6min
#299 - Unpacking Entra ID and DevOps with Microsoft Product Manager Merill Fernando
Merill Fernando, a Microsoft product manager with a focus on identity and access management, dives into the future of Entra ID. He shares insights on the importance of DevOps in improving security and the transition to passwordless identities. The discussion highlights the challenges of managing machine IDs and the potential of AI through Security Copilot to enhance identity management. Merill also reflects on his journey into the identity space, emphasizing collaboration and the need for rigorous governance in tech environments.

Aug 12, 2024 • 41min
#298 - Avoiding Common Pitfalls in IAM RFPs
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim delve into the complexities of creating effective RFPs (Request for Proposals) for Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems. They provide critical advice for both the customer and vendor sides, stressing the importance of defining clear objectives, understanding technical and business requirements, and avoiding an overwhelming level of detail that can detract from the RFP's usefulness. The hosts also advocate for combining software and services in a single RFP and highlight the value of open-ended questions to gather meaningful responses. Drawing from their experiences, Jeff and Jim discuss the pros and cons of RFPs, the importance of experience from both vendors and implementation partners, and offer strategies for managing the RFP process effectively. Thanks to listener Alfred in Canada for the great question!
00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter
02:09 Travel Adventures and Motorcycle Rally
05:07 Podcast Challenges and Listener Shoutouts
06:34 Upcoming Conferences and Events
09:57 Listener Question: Tips for a Smooth IAM RFP
22:00 Importance of Subject Knowledge22:15 The Positive Side of RFPs
24:06 Challenges with RFPs
25:39 Combining Software and Services in RFPs
26:58 Evaluating Implementation Partners
28:26 Experience Matters in RFP Responses
31:06 Tips for Effective RFPs
34:10 Personal Anecdote: A Scare and a Surprise Party
38:58 Upcoming Busy Schedule
40:05 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
Attending Identity Week in Europe, America, or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at:
America: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-america
Asia: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-asia/
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

Aug 5, 2024 • 1h 3min
#297 - Navigating the Future of Digital Identities with Chris Power
In this episode, Jeff and Jim discuss various Identity and Access Management (IAM) topics with their guest, Chris Power, Senior Manager of IAM at Sallie Mae. They tackle the evolution and challenges of non-human identities, the potential sunsetting of Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) in favor of policy-based methods, and the organizational design of IAM teams and the importance of governance and cybersecurity measures. The episode rounds off with a light discussion about Marvel movie news, focusing on Robert Downey Jr.'s return to the Marvel universe as Dr. Doom.
00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter
2:07 Exploring Digital Identity Trends
5:01 Conference Highlights and Discount Codes
8:35 Introducing the Guest: Chris Power
12:11 Deep Dive into Non-Human Identities
29:20 The Future of RBAC in IAM
30:42 Challenges in HR Systems and RBAC
32:21 The Complexity of Implementing RBAC
33:23 Exploring Alternatives to RBAC
34:13 The Role of Attributes in Access Control
37:35 Policy-Based Access Control (PBAC)
42:59 Organizational Design in IAM
52:34 Future of IAM with AI and Big Data
55:55 Marvel Universe Discussion
63:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameschristopherpower/
Chris’ LinkedIn Post: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/trying-something-new-chris-power-ysmdc/
Attending Identity Week in America, or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at:
America: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-america
Asia: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-asia/
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

Jul 29, 2024 • 1h 10min
#296 - Allan Foster Walks Down IAM Memory Lane
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim engage in a lively discussion with Allan Foster, who shares his extensive journey in the identity and access management (IAM) space. Alan reminisces about his time starting ForgeRock in a London pub, the inception of the Digital Identity Advancement Foundation (DIAF), and his involvement in influential standards like SAML through the Liberty Alliance and Kantara. Alan also highlights the importance of privacy and decentralized identity, his legacy of encouraging inquisitive thinking, and a glimpse into his recent endeavors post-retirement. The episode wraps up with Alan's take on the IAM 'Mount Rushmore,' spotlighting influential figures in the industry.
00:00 Introduction and Casual Catch-Up
02:23 The CrowdStrike Outage Incident
03:41 Travel Woes and Airline Delays
04:47 Excitement for Today's Guest
05:35 Conference Partnerships and Discounts
07:44 Introducing Alan Foster
08:17 Alan Foster's Identity Journey
19:33 Founding of ForgeRock
22:09 The Evolution of ForgeRock
32:06 Involvement with Industry Groups
36:16 Resigning from the Presidency
37:04 The Impact of SAML on Identity
38:10 Trust Frameworks and Federations
40:28 Consumer Identity and Trust
42:41 Privacy and Decentralized Identity
46:24 Overrated Trends in Identity
48:00 IAM Mount Rushmore
53:58 Conferences and Community
58:18 Retirement and New Ventures
00:03 Legacy and Final Thoughts
Connect with Allan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanfoster/
Digital Identity Advancement Foundation: https://diaf.link
Attending Identity Week in Europe, America, or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at:
America: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-america
Asia: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-asia/
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 idacpodcast.com and follow @IDACPodcast on Twitter.

Jul 22, 2024 • 1h 3min
#295 - Security Scientist Joseph Carson on AI and Digital Identity
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim engage in a lively discussion with Joseph Carson, Chief Security Scientist and Advisory CISO at Delinea. They explore Joseph's extensive career journey in identity and access management, cybersecurity, and his hands-on experiences in Estonia's pioneering digital identity ecosystem. The conversation delves into the challenges and successes of implementing digital identity systems, the evolving landscape of Identity Threat Detection and Response (ITDR), and the interplay between digital identity, authentication, and AI in cybersecurity. Joseph also shares some behind-the-scenes anecdotes from his public speaking experiences and provides valuable insights into the future of identity management. The episode highlights valuable lessons for professionals in the field, practical advice for attending conferences, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the rapidly evolving world of cybersecurity.
00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter
02:12 Conference Experiences and Swag
02:51 Upcoming Conferences and Discounts
06:09 Introducing the Guest: Joseph Carson
06:35 Joseph Carson's Career Journey
07:25 Estonia's Digital Identity Revolution
10:25 Delinea and Cybersecurity Research
12:46 Qubit Cybersecurity Conference
14:25 401 Access Denied Podcast
18:32 Estonia's Digital Identity Success
29:38 Identity Threat Detection and Response (ITDR)
32:40 The Evolution of Identity Access Management
33:48 The Convergence of Authentication and Authorization
35:00 The Role of AI in Identity Security
36:31 Digital Identity vs. Identity Access Management
38:47 Machine Identities and Asset Management
41:36 AI Agents and Identity Assistance
45:25 Challenges and Future of AI in Cybersecurity
51:07 Behind the Scenes of Public Speaking
60:06 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
Connect with Joseph: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephcarson
Learn more about Delinea: https://delinea.com/
QuBit Cybersecurity Conference: https://qubitconference.com/
401 Access Denied Podcast - https://delinea.com/events/podcasts
Estonia Kratt AI Bot: https://www.ria.ee/en/state-information-system/personal-services/burokratt
Attending Identity Week in Europe, America, or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at:
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 idacpodcast.com and follow @IDACPodcast on Twitter.

Jul 15, 2024 • 45min
#294 - Navigating Privileged Access Management with Michiel Stoop
In this episode of the 'Identity at the Center' podcast, Jeff and Jim discuss the complexities of managing Privileged Access Management (PAM) and the challenges of balancing various responsibilities like real jobs, podcasting, and attending conferences. They highlight upcoming conferences like Identity Week America and the Authenticate conference, offering discount codes for listeners. The main guest, Michiel Stoop, Director of Identity Management at Philips, shares insights on the importance of PAM, the process of selling PAM initiatives to management, and the integration of technology in identity and access management. The episode also covers methodologies for selecting the right PAM products and strategies for minimizing attack surfaces. To end on a lighter note, the hosts discuss must-try activities and foods in the Netherlands.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter
01:26 Balancing Work and Podcasting
03:04 Upcoming Conferences and Discount Codes
05:30 Introducing the Guest: Mihiel Stoop
08:04 Philips' Focus on Health Technology
10:12 Understanding Privileged Access Management
23:18 Discussing Privileged Access Management
24:10 Stakeholder Management in IAM
25:00 Operational Models for PAM
28:08 Adapting PAM Strategies for Cloud
32:25 Selecting the Right PAM Technology
36:15 Future of Privileged Access Management
39:38 Exploring the Netherlands
42:57 Wrapping Up and Contact Information
Connect with Michiel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/macstoop/
Attending Identity Week in Europe, America, or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at:
America: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-america
Asia: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-asia/
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 idacpodcast.com and follow @IDACPodcast on Twitter.

Jul 8, 2024 • 47min
#293 - Passkey Insights and Challenges with Martin Sandren of IKEA
In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, Jeff is joined by Martin Sandrin, IAM Product Lead for IKEA. They discuss a variety of topics including their upcoming attendance at several identity conferences like Identity Week in DC and Authenticate in October. The key focus is on the potential and challenges of deploying passkeys for identity security, highlighting their benefits and the hurdles that need to be overcome. They also delve into related aspects like AI's role in identity management and share some personal anecdotes such as Martin's unique moose hunting tower in Amsterdam.
00:00 Introduction and Announcements
01:44 Introducing Martin Sandrin
02:14 Martin's Journey into IAM
04:37 AI in Identity and Access Management
06:32 Exploring Passkeys
09:57 Challenges with Passkeys
25:56 Future of Passkeys and AI
37:05 The Moose Tower Story
43:44 Conclusion and Farewell
Connect with Martin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinsandren/
Attending Identity Week in Europe, America, or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at:
Europe: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week/
America: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-america
Asia: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-asia/
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.

Jul 1, 2024 • 1h 5min
#292 - Roadmaps and Realities: Developing an IAM Strategy
In this special 5-year anniversary episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim dive deep into the ongoing debate between centralized and decentralized identity management. They discuss key concepts such as single sign-on, the importance of evaluating and questioning identity management strategies, and the need to balance usability with security. The episode also covers the importance of having an IAM strategy and roadmap, detailing the steps to create, assess, develop recommendations, build a roadmap, and communicate effectively. They share personal insights, funny behind-the-scenes stories, and emphasize the value of community support. The episode concludes with Jim and Jeff looking forward to the future of the podcast and thanking their listeners for their continued engagement.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:25 Centralized vs Decentralized Identity Management
03:19 Risk-Based Approach to Identity Management
05:10 The IAM Submarine Analogy
06:40 Podcast Milestones and Community Engagement
08:37 Reflections on Podcast Journey
16:47 Developing an IAM Strategy
33:02 The Magic Number: Why Three is Key
33:12 Grouping Recommendations into Projects
35:21 The Importance of Strategy Over Tactics
36:22 Creating and Implementing a Roadmap
37:59 Customizing Your Roadmap for Your Organization
42:39 Prioritizing and Communicating Your Strategy
49:03 Maintaining Momentum and Adjusting the Roadmap
55:09 Behind the Scenes: Podcast Production Insights
Attending Identity Week in Europe, America, or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at:
Europe: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week/
America: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-america
Asia: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-asia/
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
🔑 Episode Keywords
Identity Management, Iam Strategy, Identity Governance, Centralized Vs Decentralized, Single Sign-On, Multi-Factor Authentication, Iam Roadmap, Identity Practitioners, Risk-Based Approach, Iam Submarine, Iam Policies, Iam Program, Iam Assessment, Iam Recommendations, Iam Strategy Framework, Identity Security, Iam Technology, Iam Implementation, Identity Lifecycle, Iam Trends