In this episode of "Beyond the Certificate," host Steve Weltman sits down with Michael Klatt, a seasoned cybersecurity manager with a rich background in military and law enforcement. Michael shares his journey from being an infantry officer to landing his first cybersecurity role, highlighting the skills and experiences that paved his way. Discover how his unique path through criminology, banking, and government service shaped his approach to information security. Tune in for insights on breaking into the field, the importance of certifications, and the value of lifelong learning. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned professional, Michael's story offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to build a career in cybersecurity.

Summary

In this engaging podcast episode, Scott Bly shares his non-traditional journey into cybersecurity, highlighting his background in theater and film, the challenges of overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of certifications in building credibility. He emphasizes the need for empathy in the cybersecurity field and discusses the pivotal role of community in fostering growth and learning. Scott's insights provide valuable guidance for those considering a career in cybersecurity, showcasing the blend of technical skills and personal development required to succeed in this dynamic industry.

Takeaways

• Scott Bly transitioned from theater to technology, showcasing a non-traditional career path.
• Imposter syndrome is common in cybersecurity, affecting many professionals.
• Certifications are crucial for building credibility in the tech industry.
• Understanding how you learn is key to passing certification exams.
• Empathy is essential when entering the cybersecurity field.
• The community aspect of cybersecurity is vital for networking and learning.
• Scott emphasizes the importance of personal growth and humility in tech roles.
• Technical skills alone are not enough; understanding business processes is crucial.
• The blend of virtual and in-person interactions is important for professional relationships.
• Continuous learning and adapting are necessary in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Titles

From Stage to Security: Scott Bly's Journey

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Cybersecurity

Sound bites

• "I'm the poster child for it."
• "I was the best man for the job."
• "Egos. Like you said, humble, right?"

Chapters

• 00:00 From Theater to Technology: Scott's Journey
• 10:10 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Cybersecurity
• 19:58 The Certification Journey: Strategies for Success
• 23:37 Introduction to Systems Integration Solutions (SIS) and Cybersecurity
• 30:15 Navigating a Career in Cybersecurity
• 35:16 The Importance of Empathy and Community in Cybersecurity
• 41:41 The Balance of Virtual and In-Person Connections

Keywords

cybersecurity, career path, imposter syndrome, certifications, community, IT, technology, personal growth, DevSecOps, learning

Keywords: cybersecurity, community, learning, mentorship, networking, communication, compassion, authenticity, career advice, challenges

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Steve Weltman and David Lin explore the journey of entering the cybersecurity field, sharing personal experiences, challenges, and the importance of community support. David reflects on his first year in cybersecurity, the surprises he faced, and how he learned to navigate the complexities of the field. They discuss the significance of building a network, the role of compassion in professional relationships, and the value of mentorship. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being authentic and the need for continuous learning in a rapidly evolving industry. (Recorded Jun 02 2025)

Takeaways

• The first year in cybersecurity can be full of surprises.
• Community support is crucial for success in cybersecurity.
• Learning from mistakes is a vital part of growth.
• Building a network of resources is essential.
• Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings.
• Compassion towards oneself is important during challenging times.
• Collecting mentors can provide valuable guidance.
• Authenticity fosters better professional relationships.
• Being a sponge helps in absorbing knowledge and experiences.
• It's okay not to know everything; seek help when needed.

Titles

Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape: Insights from David Lin

Lessons from the First Year in Cybersecurity

Sound bites

• "Be your authentic self at work."
• "Be a sponge in your first role."
• "It's okay to take a break."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Journeys

01:17 First Year Surprises in Cybersecurity

04:09 The Importance of Community and Support

07:43 Building a Bag of Tricks for Success

09:55 Learning from Experience and Resources

15:00 Networking and Community Engagement

17:57 Lessons Learned from Painful Experiences

18:43 Navigating Communication Mistakes

21:42 The Importance of Perspective in Decision Making

24:43 Building Authentic Relationships in the Workplace

29:31 Empowering Teams Through Compassion and Authenticity

32:38 Advice for Newcomers in Cybersecurity

35:37 Finding Motivation During Challenging Times

This is the first episode of season two in the re-launched ISC2 Los Angeles chapter podcast, Beyond the Certification. This episode was recorded remotely on May 16th 2025 at 12pm PT.

In this episode, Steve Weltman and Shannon Brewster discuss the relaunch of the ISC2 LA chapter podcast, the importance of mentorship in cybersecurity, and the benefits of community involvement. They share insights on how to engage newcomers in the cybersecurity field and the role of ISC2 in fostering a supportive environment for professionals at all levels. The conversation emphasizes the value of building relationships and the need for collaboration in the cybersecurity community.