

CISO Tradecraft®
G Mark Hardy & Ross Young
You are not years away from accomplishing your career goals, you are skills away. Learn the Tradecraft to Take Your Cybersecurity Skills to the Executive Level. © Copyright 2025, National Security Corporation. All Rights Reserved
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 10, 2025 • 26min
#223 - A CISO Primer on Agentic AI
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, G. Mark Hardy dives deep into the world of Agentic AI and its impact on cybersecurity. The discussion covers the definition and characteristics of Agentic AI, as well as expert insights on its feasibility. Learn about its primary functions—perception, cognition, and action—and explore practical cybersecurity applications. Discover the rapid advancements made by tech giants and potential risks involved. This episode is a comprehensive guide to understanding and securely implementing Agentic AI in your enterprise.
Transcripts https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tIv2NKX0DL4NTnvqKV9rKrgrewa68m3W
References
Vladimir Putin - https://www.rt.com/news/401731-ai-rule-world-putin/
Minds and Machines - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44163-024-00216-2
Anthropic - https://www.cnbc.com/2024/10/22/anthropic-announces-ai-agents-for-complex-tasks-racing-openai.html
Convergence AI - https://convergence.ai/training-web-agents-with-web-world-models-dec-2024/
OpenAI Operator - https://openai.com/index/introducing-operator/
ByteDance UITARS - https://venturebeat.com/ai/bytedances-ui-tars-can-take-over-your-computer-outperforms-gpt-4o-and-claude/
Zapier - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/openai-bytedance-zapier-launch-ai-agents-getcoai-l6blf/
Microsoft OmniParser - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/articles/omniparser-v2-turning-any-llm-into-a-computer-use-agent/
Google Project Mariner - https://deepmind.google/technologies/project-mariner/
Rajeev Sharma - Agentic AI Architecture - https://markovate.com/blog/agentic-ai-architecture/
NIST.AI.600-1 - https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.AI.600-1
Mitre ATLAS - https://atlas.mitre.org/
OWASP Top 10 for LLMs - https://owasp.org/www-project-top-10-for-large-language-model-applications/
ISO 42001 - https://www.iso.org/standard/81230.html
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Intriguing Quote
01:10 Defining Agentic AI
02:01 Expert Insights on Agency
04:32 Agentic AI in Practice
06:54 Recent Developments in Agentic AI
08:20 Deep Dive into Agentic AI Infrastructure
15:35 Use Cases for Agentic AI

Mar 3, 2025 • 40min
#222 - 40 Years of Career Advice in 40 Minutes
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, G. Mark Hardy shares 15 crucial characteristics to help you succeed in your cybersecurity career and become an effective CISO. From knowing yourself and developing leadership skills to enhancing communications and staying current with trends, Hardy distills decades of wisdom into practical advice. Learn how to navigate career transitions, build technical credibility, become an effective storyteller, and master political skills essential for C-level success.
Transcripts:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MpjXD8LqnHS_Lj1S-6T7vxcclxzUjEhe
Chapters
01:30 Know Yourself: The First Step to Success
05:23 Develop Your Leadership Skills
07:09 Enhance Your Communication Skills
11:37 Gain Broad Experience
14:28 Pursue Advanced Education
18:13 Network with Other Professionals
20:47 The Importance of Mentorship
22:20 Building Valuable Connections
23:43 Aligning with Business Goals
25:38 Deepening Technical Expertise
26:59 Staying Current with Trends
28:03 Promoting a Security-First Culture
30:18 Addressing Skills Gaps
31:53 Becoming a Master Storyteller
33:35 Engaging with Executives
34:41 Strategic Thinking and Time Management
37:27 Mastering Political Skills
39:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Feb 24, 2025 • 28min
#221 - Microsoft Majorana is Taking the Quantum Leap
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy discusses Microsoft's groundbreaking announcement of their new quantum chip, the Majorana. The chip harnesses properties of a topological superconductor, making quantum computing promises more tangible. The episode delves into the technical aspects of quantum bits (qubits), cryptography, and the implications of topological quantum computing. With insights on competitor advancements by Google and potential challenges, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of quantum computing's future and its cyber security implications.
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1O2XG47o2_6jHBtPKL2PcwGRKPe69wFvi
Link: https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/blog/quantum/2025/02/19/microsoft-unveils-majorana-1-the-worlds-first-quantum-processor-powered-by-topological-qubits/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft
00:26 Microsoft's Quantum Chip Announcement
01:51 Understanding Quantum Bits
03:23 Quantum Computing and Cryptography
06:00 Microsoft's Quantum Leap
09:41 The Physics Behind Quantum Computing
16:48 Majorana Particle and Its Significance
20:29 Applications and Future of Quantum Computing
25:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Feb 17, 2025 • 43min
#220 - Executive Updates to AI
In this CISO Tradecraft episode, host G. Mark Hardy delves into the recent U.S. presidential executive orders impacting AI and their implications for cybersecurity professionals. Learn about the evolution of AI policies from various administrations and how they influence national security, innovation, and the strategic decisions of CISOs. Discover key directives, deregulatory moves, and practical steps you can take to secure your AI systems in an era marked by rapidly changing regulations. Plus, explore the benefits of using AI tools like ZeroPath to bolster your cybersecurity efforts.
Big Thanks to our Sponsors: ZeroPath - https://zeropath.com/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Nv27tpDQs2fjdOedJOi0LhlkyQ5N5dKt
Links:
https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/publications/teaching-legal-docs/what-is-an-executive-order-/
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/14/2019-02544/maintaining-american-leadership-in-artificial-intelligence
https://www.csis.org/analysis/made-china-2025
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/242704112_China's_15-year_Science_and_Technology_Plan https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/12/08/2020-27065/promoting-the-use-of-trustworthy-artificial-intelligence-in-the-federal-government https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/05/17/2021-10460/improving-the-nations-cybersecurity
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/11/01/2023-24283/safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/executive-order-14148-initial-rescissions-harmful- executive-orders-and-actions
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/17/2025-01470/strengthening-and-promoting- innovation-in-the-nations-cybersecurity
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/17/2025-01470/strengthening-and-promoting- innovation-in-the-nations-cybersecurity
https://www.cisecurity.org/controls/cis-controls-list
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI Policy Shifts
00:23 AI Tool for Cybersecurity: ZeroPath
01:12 Understanding Executive Orders

Feb 10, 2025 • 41min
#219 - The Professionalization of CISOs (with Steve Zalewski & Tyson Kopczynski)
This podcast episode discusses the formation of a professional association for CISOs, driven by increasing personal liability risks faced by these executives. The conversation centers on establishing a formal definition and accreditation process for the CISO role, moving beyond existing certifications to demonstrate operational and theoretical expertise. This professionalization effort aims to reduce personal liability through a tailored insurance product, negotiated collectively by the association, and preempt potentially ill-defined government regulations. Ultimately, the goal is to create a structured, respected profession for CISOs, offering benefits such as insurance, professional development, and a unified voice within the industry.
Professional Association of CISOs - https://theciso.org/
Transcripts - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BNeUzSyPYX-vAYwQl9qCi0GhknYhKnWF/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Professionalizing the CISO Role
00:52 The Genesis of a Professional Association
03:39 Challenges and Legal Liabilities for CISOs
04:43 The Value of Joining the Association
06:24 Accreditation and Certification Process
10:38 Insurance and Risk Management for CISOs
18:45 Future Directions and Getting Involved

Feb 3, 2025 • 24min
#218 - How AI Changes Talent Management (with Colleen Lennox)
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy and special guest Colleen Lennox dive into the transformative power of AI in HR. Discover how AI can revolutionize identifying, attracting, and retaining cybersecurity talent. They discuss the challenges of finding the right personnel in the cybersecurity field, the innovative AI-driven solutions that can streamline recruitment processes, and how these tools can help in talent management and career progression. Stay tuned as they explore the potential of AI in creating a more effective and bias-free hiring process, while also discussing the future implications for HR and recruiters in the evolving landscape. Big Thanks to our
Sponsors: CruiseCon - Use code CISOTRADECRAFT10 at https://cruisecon.com/ for 10% off registration!
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1f6B9Ye02WHWo7q15avBm0359pxGNqnVu
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: AI and Workforce Concerns
00:28 Welcome to CISO Tradecraft
01:01 Meet Colleen Lennox: AI in HR
01:27 Challenges in Cybersecurity Recruitment
03:11 AI-Powered Recruitment Solutions
07:07 Improving Talent Management with AI
13:36 Addressing Bias in AI Recruitment
17:20 Future of AI in HR and Recruitment
21:04 Conclusion and Contact Information

Jan 27, 2025 • 45min
#217 - Includes No Dirt (with Bill Dougherty)
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy sits down with Bill Dougherty, CISO of Omada Health, to discuss a groundbreaking threat model called 'Includes No Dirt'. This comprehensive model integrates security, privacy, and compliance considerations, aiming to streamline and enhance threat modeling processes. The conversation covers the origin and principles of the model, its applicability across different sectors, and the essential aspects of threat modeling. Listeners are also treated to insights on handling third-party risks and adapting to emerging AI challenges. The episode provides practical advice for cybersecurity leaders looking to effectively manage and mitigate risks while reducing redundancy.
Big Thanks to our Sponsors:
ZeroPath - https://zeropath.com/
CruiseCon - Use code CISOTRADECRAFT10 at https://cruisecon.com/ for 10% off registration!
The No DIRT Threat Model can be found here: http://www.includesnodirt.com/nodirt.pdf
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vWq4Zx7pzM_B65W933m8_TE0fLKaUw3X
Chapters
03:27 The Genesis of Includes No Dirt
05:05 Combining Security, Privacy, and Compliance
07:24 Implementing the No Dirt Model
11:42 Scoring and Evaluating Risks
17:41 Third-Party Risk Management
25:49 Evaluating SaaS Requests Based on Risk
27:55 Adapting Threat Models for AI
31:24 Principles of Minimum Necessary Data
33:42 General Applicability of Security Principles
35:12 Includes No Dirt: A Comprehensive Threat Model
40:15 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Jan 20, 2025 • 46min
#216 - The TTPs of a Security Champions Program (with Dustin Lehr)
Join G. Mark Hardy in a riveting episode of CISO Tradecraft as he sits down with Dustin Lehr to uncover strategies for creating security champions among developers. Explore effective techniques to inspire culture change, leverage AI tools for security, and discover the difference between leadership and management. This insightful discussion includes actionable steps to establish a robust security champions program, from defining a vision to executing with gamification. Whether you’re an aspiring champion or a seasoned cybersecurity leader, this episode is packed with valuable insights to elevate your organization’s security practices.
Big Thanks to our Sponsors:
ZeroPath - https://zeropath.com/
CruiseCon - Use code CISOTRADECRAFT10 at https://cruisecon.com/ for 10% off registration!
Transcripts - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IgPbmnNaEF_1GIQTRxHStOoUKtZM4azH
Learn more about this topic by reading Justin's Website - https://securitychampionsuccessguide.org/
Justin Lehr's Company - https://www.katilyst.com/
Chapters
01:05 Meet Dustin Lair
04:05 Leadership vs. Management
06:17 The Role of Security Champions
17:20 Recruiting Security Champions
24:42 Exploring the Framework: Vision and Goals
26:25 Defining Participants and Their Roles
28:37 Understanding the Current Setting
33:27 Conceptualizing Ideal Actions
35:20 Designing with Gamification in Mind
40:30 Effective Delivery and Continuous Tuning
41:30 Overcoming Challenges and Final Thoughts

Jan 13, 2025 • 19min
#215 - CISO Predictions for 2025
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy explores the top 10 cybersecurity predictions for 2025. From the rise of AI influencers to new standards in encryption, Hardy discusses significant trends and changes expected in the cybersecurity landscape. The episode delves into topics such as branding, application security, browser-based security, and post-quantum cryptography, aiming to prepare listeners for future challenges and advancements in the field.
Big Thanks to our Sponsor
CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
Team8 Fixing AppSec Paper - https://bunny-wp-pullzone-pqzn4foj9c.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fixing-AppSec-Paper.pdf
Terraform and Open Policy Agent Example - https://spacelift.io/blog/terraform-best-practices#8-introduce-policy-as-code
Transcripts - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u6B2PrkJ1D14d9HjQQHSg7Fan3M6n4dy
Chapters
01:19 1) AI Influencers become normalized
03:17 2) The Importance of Production Quality in Branding
05:19 3) Google and Apple Collaboration for Enhanced Security
06:28 4) Consolidation in Application Security and Vulnerability Management
08:36 5) The Rise of Models Committees
09:09 6) Formalizing the CISO Role
11:03 7) Exclusive CISO Retreats: The New Trend
12:12 8) Automating Cybersecurity Tasks with Agentic AI
13:10 9) Browser-Based Security Solutions
14:22 10) Post-Quantum Cryptography: Preparing for the Future

Jan 6, 2025 • 46min
#214 - Deceive to Detect (with Yuriy Gatupov)
🔥 Hackers Beware! Cyber Deception is Changing the Game 🔥
In this must-hear episode of CISO Tradecraft, we expose a mind-blowing cybersecurity strategy that flips the script on attackers. Instead of waiting to be breached, cyber deception technology tricks hackers into revealing themselves—before they can do real damage. 🚨🎭
Imagine laying digital traps—fake credentials, bogus systems, and irresistible bait—that lead cybercriminals straight into a controlled maze where every move they make is tracked.
Early threat detection? ✅
Real-time attacker intel? ✅
Fewer false positives? ✅
🎙️ Featuring deception tech guru Yuriy Gatupov, we break down:
✅ How deception tech works & why it’s a game-changer
✅ How to expose and track hackers in real time
✅ How to prove ROI and make the case for your org Cyber deception isn’t just defense—it’s offense against cyber threats. Are you ready to fight back? Listen now!
Big thanks to our Sponsors
ThreatLocker - https://hubs.ly/Q02_HRGK0
CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
Contact Yuriy Gatupov - info@labyrinth.tech
Yuri's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuriy-gatupov-373155281/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oyQzCBRoPLbDOCOCypJMGGXxcPI5w75o
Chapters
02:05 History of Cyber Deception
04:57 Advantages of Deception Technology
06:57 Engagement and Detection Strategies
10:18 How Deception Technology Works
16:13 Attack Scenarios and Detection
24:09 Decoys and Deception: A New Paradigm
24:56 Real-World Success Stories
33:30 Deception in OT and SCADA Systems
37:38 Calculating ROI for Deception Technologies


