

CISO Tradecraft®
CISO Tradecraft®
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
© Copyright 2025, National Security Corporation. All Rights Reserved
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 23, 2024 • 46min
#212 - Repeatable, Attestable, and Defensible AI (with AWS's Former Deputy CISO Merritt Baer)
Merritt Baer, former Deputy CISO at AWS and Harvard Law graduate, offers expert insights on the future of cybersecurity. She discusses the complexities of cloud security and the critical shared responsibility model. AI's dual role as both a tool and a threat is explored, including the risks of AI-generated fraud. Baer emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in security and predicts key trends for 2025, urging CISOs to adopt robust security measures amid evolving challenges and regulatory scrutiny.

5 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 28min
#211 - Allowlisting and Ringfencing (with Kieran Human)
Kieran Human, a special project engineer at ThreatLocker with a master's in cybersecurity, shares compelling insights on modern endpoint protection. He explores the evolution from traditional antivirus systems to advanced EDR, revealing the critical role of allowlisting and ring fencing in today's threat landscape. Kieran discusses the limitations of conventional methods against fileless malware and ransomware, emphasizing proactive strategies to safeguard endpoints. Practical tips and real-world experiences highlight how organizations can effectively mitigate cyber risks with ThreatLocker’s innovative solutions.

17 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 46min
#210 - Salt Typhoon and Vulnerable Telecoms
Join cybersecurity experts Adam Isles and Andreas Kurland from the Chertoff Group as they delve into the pressing 'Salt Typhoon' threat from state actors targeting telecoms. They explore the vulnerabilities within telecommunications infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of encryption and secure communication methods. Learn about the risks of messaging platforms, voice communication security, and best practices for maintaining privacy during virtual meetings. They offer actionable insights to enhance corporate cybersecurity and protect against sophisticated attacks.

Dec 2, 2024 • 49min
#209 - AI Singularity (with Richard Thieme)
In this riveting episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy welcomes back Richard Thieme, a thought leader in cybersecurity and technology, almost three years after his last appearance. Richard delves into the necessity of thinking like a hacker, provides insights into the AI singularity, and discusses the ethical and societal implications of emerging technologies. The conversation also touches on Richard's extensive body of work, including his books and views on cyber warfare, disinformation, and ethical decision-making. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and explores the interconnectedness of technology, consciousness, and our future.
Big Thanks to our Sponsor CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
Link to Richard’s home page (and links to Amazon for his books):
https://thiemeworks.com/
Link to the book, The Ending of Time:
https://store.kfa.org/products/the-ending-of-time-new-edition
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Q7CJkF7Spji2iAbV_mYEyYHnKWobzo6N
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
00:56 Upcoming Cybersecurity Event: CruiseCon
01:41 Welcoming Back Richard Thieme
02:06 Reflecting on Past Discussions
02:59 The Necessity for Thinking Like a Hacker
03:10 Exploring Richard Thieme's Books
08:25 Understanding AI and Its Implications
18:28 Soft Power and Global Influence
24:01 The Power of Fiction in Revealing Truth
24:37 Ethical Frameworks Post 9/11
26:12 The Role of Empathy in Intelligence Work
26:37 The Blurring Line Between Fact and Fiction
29:52 The Isolation of Intelligence Work
31:18 The Interconnectedness of Everything
33:36 Exploring Remote Viewing and Consciousness
36:50 The Rise of AI and Ethical Considerations
39:43 The Evolution of Technology and Society
45:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections

22 snips
Nov 25, 2024 • 45min
#208 - Insider Threat (with Shawnee Delaney)
Shawnee Delaney, an insider threat expert with a background in espionage, shares her insights into cybersecurity's human elements. She highlights how understanding motivation is vital for detecting insider threats and stresses the importance of cultivating a positive organizational culture. Delaney discusses proactive strategies like psychological testing in hiring and employee lifecycle management. She also offers practical advice for leaders to foster open communication and build effective insider threat programs, drawing parallels from military core values.

Nov 18, 2024 • 46min
#207 - CISO Burnout (with Raghav Singh)
Welcome to another enlightening episode of CISO Tradecraft! In this episode, host G. Mark Hardy dives deep into the critical topic of CISO burnout with special guest Raghav Singh, a PhD candidate from the University of Buffalo. This is an eye-opening session for anyone in the cybersecurity field, especially those in or aspiring to the CISO role. Raghav shares valuable insights from his extensive research on the unique stresses faced by CISOs, the organizational factors contributing to burnout, and practical coping mechanisms. We also explore the evolutionary phases of CISOs, from technical experts to strategic business enablers. Whether you're dealing with resource limitations, seeking executive support, or managing ever-evolving cybersecurity threats, this episode offers actionable advice to navigate the demanding role of a CISO successfully. Don't forget to like, comment, and share to help other CISOs and cybersecurity leaders!
Big Thanks to our Sponsor CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fhLkaj_JetlYFQ50Q69uMGmsw3fS3Wqa
CISO Burnout - https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2023/sig_lead/sig_lead/4/
CISO-CIO Power Dynamics https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2024/is_leader/is_leader/6/
Cybersec professionals and AI integration https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2024/security/security/29/
Raghav can be reached on rsingh45@buffalo.edu
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
02:34 Understanding CISO Burnout
03:24 PhD Journey and Challenges
10:12 Key Findings on CISO Burnout
18:39 Six Sources of CISO Burnout
32:47 CISO Maturity Levels
42:57 Conclusion and Call to Action

Nov 11, 2024 • 46min
#206 - Ira Winkler CruiseCon Founder
Setting Sail with Cybersecurity: Exclusive Insights from Ira Winkler on CruiseCon 2025 🛳️ Join us for an exciting episode of CISO Tradecraft as G Mark Hardy sits down with renowned cybersecurity expert Ira Winkler! Discover the groundbreaking CruiseCon 2025, the first at-sea cybersecurity conference, featuring top-tier speakers and unrivaled networking opportunities. Learn about Ira's illustrious career, the significance of certifications, and the current state of the cybersecurity job market. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your career and connect with industry luminaries.
Big Thanks to our Sponsor CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CGyFBxOrxvJitKsH9BRKwf2_g8rRPZ6K
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Special Announcement
00:42 Reconnecting with Ira Winkler
04:07 Early Cybersecurity Days and Certifications
14:35 Innovative Ideas and CruiseCon
21:32 Meet the Top Cybersecurity Experts
22:13 Exciting Events and Networking Opportunities
24:10 Special Deals and Sponsorships
34:47 Addressing the Cybersecurity Job Market

Nov 4, 2024 • 46min
#205 - Wisdom from the 1st Cyber Colonel (JC Vega)
Join G. Mark Hardy on this exciting episode of CISO Tradecraft as he interviews J.C. Vega, the first cyber colonel in the United States Army. Vega shares his invaluable insights on leadership, team building, and success strategies that can transform your cybersecurity career. Plus, learn about CruiseCon 2025, Wee Dram, and how you can take your leadership skills to the next level. Don't miss out on this episode packed with wisdom, actionable advice, and some fun anecdotes. Subscribe, comment, and share with your peers!
Big Thanks to our Sponsor CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
JC Vega - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcvega-cyber-colonel/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ExuX-WVO4_qqLoIZDuT0QS2VAvN2resW
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
01:15 Meet J.C. Vega: The First Cyber Colonel
01:55 The Wee Dram Community
03:39 Building a Trusted Cybersecurity Community
09:12 Leadership Principles from Military to Civilian Life
12:31 Building and Leading Effective Teams
24:17 The Peter Principle and Career Progression
24:49 Creating a Shared Understanding in Cybersecurity
26:43 Commander's Intent: Defining Success
29:29 Empowering Teams and Accepting Prudent Risk
36:19 Rules to Live By: The Vega's Top Three
44:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Oct 28, 2024 • 24min
#204 - Shadows and Zombies in the Data Center
This spooky installment explores the lurking threats of Shadow IT and Zombie IT. Discover the risks associated with unauthorized technologies and obsolete systems that can compromise organizational security. Strategies like rigorous asset management and automation are highlighted to combat these hidden dangers. The discussion also emphasizes the need for comprehensive compliance reviews. Plus, there’s an enticing opportunity to network at an upcoming cybersecurity conference aboard a luxury cruise.

Oct 21, 2024 • 17min
#203 - Be SOCcessful with the SOC-CMM
Discover the transformative SOC Capability Maturity Model that revolutionizes how organizations assess their cybersecurity operations. Learn about the five key domains critical for enhancing SOC efficiency and resilience. Explore real-world success stories, including impressive improvements from a financial company. Find out how to visualize your SOC capabilities using radar charts and the importance of risk-based planning. This discussion is a treasure trove of insights for cybersecurity professionals aiming for excellence!