

CISO Tradecraft®
G Mark Hardy & Ross Young
Welcome to CISO Tradecraft®, your guide to mastering the art of being a top-tier Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Our podcast empowers you to elevate your information security skills to an executive level. Join us on this journey through the domains of effective CISO leadership.© Copyright 2025, National Security Corporation. All Rights Reserved
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 8, 2025 • 43min
#249 - Unveiling AI and Crypto Threats with Microsoft's Tomas Roccia
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy sits down with Tomas Roccia, a senior threat researcher at Microsoft, to delve into the evolving landscape of AI and cybersecurity. From AI-enhanced threat detection to the complexities of tracking cryptocurrency used in cybercrime, Tomas shares his extensive experience and insights. Discover how AI is transforming both defensive and offensive strategies in cybersecurity, learn about innovative tools like Nova for adversarial prompt detection, and explore the sophisticated techniques used by cybercriminals in high-profile crypto heists. This episode is packed with valuable information for cybersecurity professionals looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing field.
Defcon presentation: Where is my crypto Dude? https://media.defcon.org/DEF%20CON%2033/DEF%20CON%2033%20presentations/Thomas%20Roccia%20-%20Where%E2%80%99s%20My%20Crypto%2C%20Dude%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Crypto%20Money%20Laundering%20%28and%20How%20to%20Track%20It%29.pdf
GenAI Breaches Generative AI Breaches: Threats, Investigations, and Response - Speaker Deck https://speakerdeck.com/fr0gger/generative-ai-breaches-threats-investigations-and-response
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZPkJ9P7Cm7D_JdgfgNGMH8O_2oPAbnlc
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI and Cryptocurrencies
00:27 Welcome to CISO Tradecraft
00:55 Guest Introduction: Tomas Roccia
01:06 Tomas Roccia's Background and Career
02:51 AI in Cybersecurity: Defensive Approaches
03:19 The Democratization of AI: Risks and Opportunities
06:09 AI Tools for Cyber Defense
08:09 Challenges and Limitations of AI in Cybersecurity
09:20 Microsoft's AI Tools for Defenders
12:13 Open Source AI Security: Project Nova
18:37 Community Contributions and Open Source Projects
19:30 Case Study: Babit Crypto Hack
22:12 Money Laundering Techniques in Cryptocurrency
23:01 AI in Tracking Cryptocurrency Transactions
26:09 Sophisticated Attacks and Money Laundering
33:50 Future of AI and Cryptocurrency
38:17 Final Thoughts and Advice for Security Executives
41:28 Conclusion and Farewell

Sep 1, 2025 • 12min
#248 - A Black Hat Chat with ThreatLocker CEO Danny Jenkins
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy sits down with Danny Jenkins, CEO and founder of ThreatLocker, live from the Black Hat conference. Danny shares insights into his technical background and explains how a customer-focused culture drives innovation and improvement at ThreatLocker. Learn about the company's unique practices, such as their 'control alt delight' sessions, 24/7 customer support, and how leadership at ThreatLocker leads by example. Danny also discusses the importance of learning from failures and removing obstacles for team members to help the company and its products continually evolve.
Danny's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannyjenkinscyber/
ThreatLocker - https://www.threatlocker.com/
Transcripts -https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TOib3nTXwrWuwF6sJMlVjTFurgr-jc1b
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:27 Meet Danny Jenkins, CEO of Threat Locker
01:12 The Philosophy Behind Threat Locker
02:52 Customer-Centric Culture at Threat Locker
04:32 Technical Leadership and Personal Insights
08:55 Leadership Advice for Aspiring CISOs
11:22 Conclusion and Farewell

Aug 25, 2025 • 35min
#247 - What most leaders don't understand about AI (with Dave Lewis)
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy engages in an insightful conversation with Dave Lewis, Global Advisory CISO from 1Password, about AI governance and its importance in cybersecurity. They discuss AI policy and its implications, the evolving nature of AI and cybersecurity, and the critical need for governance frameworks to manage AI safely and securely. The discussion delves into the visibility challenges, shadow AI, the role of credentials, and the importance of maintaining fundamental security practices amidst rapid technological advancements. They also touch on the potential risks associated with AI, the misconceptions about its impact on jobs, and the need for a balanced approach to leveraging AI in a beneficial manner while safeguarding against its threats. This episode provides valuable guidance for cybersecurity professionals and organizations navigating the complexities of AI governance.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI Governance
00:30 Guest Introduction: Dave Lewis
00:49 The Importance of AI Governance
01:42 Challenges in AI Implementation
03:20 AI in the Modern Enterprise
03:49 Shadow AI and Security Concerns
04:49 AI's Impact on Jobs and Industry
05:27 The Gartner Hype Cycle and AI
05:43 AI's Influence on the Stock Market
06:14 Historical Context of AI
06:32 AI and Credential Security
08:29 The Role of Governance in AI
12:47 The Future of AI and Security
18:36 Governance and Policy Recommendations
19:26 AI Governance and Ethical Concerns
20:01 AI Self-Preservation and Human Safety
20:18 Uncontrollable AI Applications
21:17 Vectors of AI Trouble
21:58 AI Hallucinations and Data Security
22:53 AI Vulnerabilities and Exploits
26:29 Deepfakes and AI Misuse
27:33 Historical Cybersecurity Incidents
29:04 Future of AI and Job Security
33:47 Managing AI Identities and Credentials
34:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Aug 18, 2025 • 44min
#246 - Tim Brown on SolarWinds: What Every CISO Should Know
Tim Brown, CISO of SolarWinds, shares his firsthand experience dealing with the infamous SolarWinds breach, diving into the role of the Russian SVR and the complexities of supply chain security. He discusses the crucial lessons learned regarding organizational communication and the accountability of CISOs in today’s evolving regulatory landscape. Listeners gain insights into the legal challenges faced post-breach, including SEC implications, as well as the immense personal and professional impact such incidents have on cybersecurity leaders.

Aug 11, 2025 • 46min
#245 - Mastering Cybersecurity Recruitment and Career Growth (with Casey Marquette)
Casey Marquette, a cybersecurity expert and COO, shares his dynamic journey from law enforcement to leading in the cybersecurity domain. He discusses crucial recruitment strategies for building effective teams, emphasizing the importance of attitude over skill. Casey highlights mentorship and networking as key factors for career growth and addresses innovative AI tools like Scout to streamline hiring. He also explores the challenges of remote hiring, insider threats, and the significance of maintaining high standards in candidate selection.

Aug 4, 2025 • 45min
#244 - Breaking into Cybersecurity (with Christophe Foulon)
In this enlightening conversation, Christophe Foulon, a seasoned cybersecurity professional and podcast host, shares his journey from the help desk to becoming an expert in the field. He discusses the allure and challenges of the CISO role, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and aligning team strengths. Christophe offers insights into transitioning to virtual CISO positions and navigating career paths in cybersecurity. He highlights the need for inclusive recruitment and the vital role of cyber insurance in mitigating risks.

Jul 29, 2025 • 27min
#243 - Navigating Hacker Summer Camp in 2025
Dive into the vibrant world of Hacker Summer Camp, a must-attend series of cybersecurity events. Discover the rich history of DEF CON, and how Black Hat evolved from its hacker roots to a corporate staple. Learn about the grassroots nature of B-Sides, where overlooked voices shine. Get practical tips for first-timers, from planning your visit to networking effectively. Personal anecdotes and insights highlight the significance of these gatherings in fostering innovation and community in cybersecurity.

Jul 21, 2025 • 46min
#242 - The Secret to Career Success: Your Personal Board of Directors
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, co-host G Mark Hardy and guest Ross Young explore the concept of having a personal board of directors. Learn how to leverage mentors, coaches, and role models to gain diverse perspectives and valuable advice for your professional growth as a cybersecurity leader. Discover the importance of building authentic relationships and seeking advice from experienced individuals, and understand how to make informed career decisions. Tune in to hear practical tips on creating and maintaining your own board of directors, and how it can elevate your career in cybersecurity.
Helpful Reading
https://pe.gatech.edu/blog/working-learning/personal-board-of-directors
https://career.uga.edu/uploads/documents/hireuga/PersonalBoardOfDirectors-worksheet24.pdf
Transcripts:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qhx38KERHAc1T0qoE6mphUODeOt2xWC4
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Personal Board of Directors
00:27 Welcome to CISO Tradecraft
01:25 Understanding the Concept of a Personal Board of Directors
03:51 The Role of Mentorship and Feedback
04:38 Building Effective Mentor-Mentee Relationships
06:53 The Importance of Sponsorship
07:57 Navigating Career Paths and Organizational Culture
09:28 Recruiting Your Personal Board of Directors
15:34 Making the Most of Mentorship
22:17 Advice and Board of Directors
22:46 The Power of a Mastermind
23:52 Identifying Key Roles for Your Board
26:27 Time Commitment and Mentor Relationships
27:22 Grave Diggers and Organizational Insights
28:26 Categories of Board Members
29:54 Leveraging Admins and Chiefs of Staff
31:55 Building Trust and Influence
35:09 Discernment in Taking Advice
41:23 Career Opportunities and Emerging Technologies
42:57 Summary and Final Thoughts

Jul 14, 2025 • 26min
#241 - The OWASP Threat and Safeguard Matrix (with Ross Young)
Join G Mark Hardy in this special episode of CISO Tradecraft as he interviews Ross Young, the creator of the OWASP Threat and Safeguard Matrix (TaSM). Ross shares his extensive cybersecurity background and discusses the development and utility of the TaSM, including its applications in threat modeling and risk management. Additionally, Ross introduces his upcoming book, 'Cybersecurity's Dirty Secret: How Most Budgets Are Wasted,' and provides insights on maximizing cybersecurity budgets. Don't miss this episode for essential knowledge on enhancing your cybersecurity leadership and strategies.
OWASP Threat and Safeguard Matrix - https://owasp.org/www-project-threat-and-safeguard-matrix/
Transcripts - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1anGewI3XccGnXoV3oE2h7BfelY5QxiSL/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Threat and Safeguard Matrix
00:30 Meet Ross Young: Cybersecurity Expert
01:08 Ross Young's Career Journey
01:59 The Upcoming Book: Cybersecurity's Dirty Secret
03:04 Introduction to the Threat and Safeguard Matrix (TaSM)
03:48 Understanding the TaSM Framework
07:10 Applying the TaSM to Real-World Scenarios
19:32 Using TaSM for Threat Modeling and Risk Committees
21:58 Extending TaSM Beyond Cybersecurity
23:52 AI Risks and the TaSM
24:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jul 7, 2025 • 48min
#240 - From CruiseCon to AI Threats (with Ira Winkler)
Join us for an engaging episode of CISO Tradecraft, hosted by G Mark Hardy, featuring cybersecurity veteran Ira Winkler. In this episode, we dive deep into cybersecurity careers, discuss the unique CruiseCon cybersecurity event, and explore the evolution of information security. Hear firsthand accounts of career journey highlights, networking strategies, and the importance of democratizing top-tier content. Learn about the impacts of AI in cybersecurity, data poisoning, and upcoming cybersecurity conferences. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and advice.
https://cruisecon.com/
Don't forget to the the following code for 10% off "CISOTRADECRAFT10"
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-H1CShsyirr4ZL9d1WCx6IMA_ngjWoEN
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft
01:34 Meet Ira Winkler: Cybersecurity Veteran
02:50 The Concept of CruiseCon
05:58 Challenges in Cybersecurity Events
08:03 Building a Cybersecurity Community
13:45 Mentorship and Networking in Cybersecurity
21:52 The Importance of Relevant Mentorship
24:40 The Importance of Programmatic Principles
25:19 Finding the Right Mentor for Your Career Path
26:38 Adapting to a Shifting Career Landscape
27:05 Understanding AI Fundamentals
29:12 The Role of Data in AI
30:57 Agentic AI and Its Applications
32:48 Challenges and Risks in AI
41:33 Upcoming Events and Keynote Speakers
43:35 Leadership Lessons from Ground Zero
46:39 Future Cruise Con Events
47:44 Conclusion and Farewell