Inclusive Cyber: Unlocking Innovation in Cybersecurity

Danny Magallanes

Welcome to Inclusive Cyber: Unlocking Innovation in Cybersecurity, your front-row seat to understand how a diverse mix of voices is not just necessary but essential to defend our most sensitive computer networks and personal data. I’m your host Danny Magallanes, and through my podcast, we shine a spotlight on the heroes and the trailblazers from every corner of society who are redefining the Cultural Renaissance frontier. Every episode is a step toward a cyber community that's as varied as it is united, where everyone has the keys to unlock their potential and the power to protect our digital world. Join us on this journey, where every listen, every share, and every dialogue inches us closer to this new reality

  1. 5D AGO

    Breaking the Mold: Marivell's Rise in Cybersecurity & Leadership

    Meet Marivell, a proud Latina from NYC who turned curiosity into a career in cybersecurity, governance, risk & compliance (GRC), and leadership. 🔑 Highlights that resonate: Curiosity as a Superpower → Asking the “dumb” questions launched her career in tech. Representation Matters → A Latina voice proving that you don’t need a perfect path: just grit, curiosity, and community. Breaking Silos → Cybersecurity’s biggest challenge isn’t tech, it’s the lack of collaboration. GRC Reframed → Policies aren’t boring; they’re the foundation of cybersecurity programs. Generative AI → Not a threat if you have foundational knowledge but a danger if you don’t. Mentorship with Intention → Don’t just ask. Bring purpose, an agenda, and be ready for the give-and-take. Optimism Always Wins → Inspired by Kimberly S. Reed’s book, Marivell reminds us that resilience + optimism = survival in cyber. 💬 Quote to share: “I am proof you don’t need a perfect path. You need grit, curiosity, and community.” – Marivell ✨ Keywords to drive engagement: #Cybersecurity #LatinaInTech #Mentorship #Curiosity #DiversityInCyber #GRC #AI #Resilience #RepresentationMatters #WomenInCyber Support the show Support the Channel - Click the bell to have notifications, like & subscribe! Buy Me Coffee - https://shorturl.at/jKMSX Social Media – Follow us on: TikTok Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554884934328 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inclusivecyberpodcast/ Audio: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6HNQQVKvsCRo2J095Kyc8G Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurity/id1686041111 Website - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2183707 Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/594cca7a-726d-43fe-b94e-36291566e9d8/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurityMusic: Music by Cryptochronica and Worlds Apart featuring Vtizzel; Song: Gunz Blazin' Music: Used with permission: Artist: Thunderwolf X Words Apart, Song: Cybernetix...

    36 min

  2. JUL 28

    Fail, Learn, Lead: Robert’s Guide to Authentic Leadership

    We sit down with Robert, CIO of a leading healthcare services company, to explore how non-traditional career paths, life skills, and human-centric leadership can reshape technology teams. Robert shares his journey from political-science graduate to tech executive, his work closing educational gaps with Teach For America Colorado, and candid lessons on mentorship, failure, true role of AI in our work and authentic leadership.  🔑 Top Takeaways Non-Tech Backgrounds Drive Innovation Fresh perspectives, from customer service, education, even music, unlock creative problem solving. Life Skills Are Business Skills Empathy, respect, accountability and strong communication form the bedrock of high-performing teams. Mentors Guide, Not Dictate The best mentors ask probing questions and share stories, helping you surface your own strengths. Fail Fast, Learn Faster Real-world setbacks teach resilience, sharpen listening skills, and foster adaptive leadership. AI Empowers, but Demands Oversight Automation boosts efficiency, but over-reliance leads to complacency and erosion of critical thinking. True Inclusion Requires Action Moving beyond gatekeeping certifications and degrees to open doors for underrepresented talent. Support the show Support the Channel - Click the bell to have notifications, like & subscribe! Buy Me Coffee - https://shorturl.at/jKMSX Social Media – Follow us on: TikTok Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554884934328 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inclusivecyberpodcast/ Audio: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6HNQQVKvsCRo2J095Kyc8G Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurity/id1686041111 Website - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2183707 Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/594cca7a-726d-43fe-b94e-36291566e9d8/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurityMusic: Music by Cryptochronica and Worlds Apart featuring Vtizzel; Song: Gunz Blazin' Music: Used with permission: Artist: Thunderwolf X Words Apart, Song: Cybernetix...

    57 min

  3. JUN 9

    Soft-Spoken. Self-Taught. Zoom Bots: Bandana Kaur on Confidence, LLMs & Climbing Cringe Mountain

    🔐 She Built a Zoom Bot at 13 to Skip Class… and Ended Up Securing NASA. Meet [@Bandana | Hack With Her], a rising cybersecurity force who’s not waiting for permission to shape the future. At just 17, Bandana is: ✨ A cybersecurity researcher focused on adversarial attacks on LLMs 🌐 A UN Dynamic Team Coalition Cybersecurity Lead 🎓 A National Cybersecurity Education Ambassador 👩‍💻 A bug bounty hunter who’s helped secure NASA, the U.S. Dept. of Education & the Indian government But what makes her story magnetic isn’t just the accomplishments — it’s how she started: ➡️ Taught herself Python through W3Schools ➡️ Built a Zoom bot to skip 7am classes during lockdown ➡️ Climbed “Cringe Mountain” to share her learning in public ➡️ Grew a personal brand on Instagram & LinkedIn from scratch We talked about: ✔️ The fine line between personal branding and bragging ✔️ Why vulnerability is key to networking ✔️ GenAI’s dual role in good and harm — and how she’s defending against jailbreak attacks ✔️ Her mission to make the cyberspace livable for everyone ------------------ SHOW NOTES Instagram - Hackwithher Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hackwither/ BOOKS The Web Application Hacker's Handbook – A comprehensive guide to web app security and penetration testing. The Car Hacker's Handbook – Focused on automotive cybersecurity and how to understand and exploit vehicle systems. The 30 Ways to Make Money Hacking Ethically – A bug bounty hunting book that explains 30 vulnerability types with real examples. Support the show Support the Channel - Click the bell to have notifications, like & subscribe! Buy Me Coffee - https://shorturl.at/jKMSX Social Media – Follow us on: TikTok Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554884934328 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inclusivecyberpodcast/ Audio: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6HNQQVKvsCRo2J095Kyc8G Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurity/id1686041111 Website - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2183707 Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/594cca7a-726d-43fe-b94e-36291566e9d8/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurityMusic: Music by Cryptochronica and Worlds Apart featuring Vtizzel; Song: Gunz Blazin' Music: Used with permission: Artist: Thunderwolf X Words Apart, Song: Cybernetix...

    38 min

  4. MAY 27

    Beyond Burnout: Coming Home to Yourself with Nicole Lilly

    In the latest episode of Inclusive Cyber, I had the honor of speaking with Nicole Lilly, founder of Deeply Devoted Lilly, somatic coach, and former corporate wellness strategist. We didn’t talk tech. We talked about what tech often ignores—how emotional wellbeing, nervous system regulation, and inner safety are critical to sustainable performance in high-pressure fields like cybersecurity. Nicole opens up about: * Growing up in a culture where worth was tied to appearance—and how she reclaimed her health on *her* terms * Her corporate wellness career and the blind spots she noticed in how we treat mental health at work * Why we don’t ask for help, and how self-leadership shifted her relationship with discipline * What it means to "come home to yourself" and build a life rooted in compassion, curiosity, and clarity 🧠 This conversation reminded me that no productivity hack can replace the inner work required to truly show up—at work or at home. One of Nicole’s reflections that stuck with me: “There’s a difference between what you want to be and who you want to be.” 🎧 If you’re in cybersecurity—or any fast-paced field—this episode is for you. It’s not about slowing down. It’s about realigning with your values so you can lead without burning out. \#MentalHealth #CybersecurityLeadership #SomaticCoaching #WomenInTech #InclusiveCyber #BurnoutRecovery #LatinaLeadership #HumanCenteredSecurity #EmotionalWellbeing #LeadershipDevelopment #podcasthighlights  -------------------------- SHOW NOTES Nicole Lilly - LinkedIn Deeply Devoted Lilly - https://www.instagram.com/deeplydevotedlilly/ Books & Podcasts ---------------------------- 1. What i know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey - https://www.amazon.com/What-Know-Sure-Oprah-Winfrey/dp/1250054052 2. We Can Do Hard Things - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/we-can-do-hard-things/id1564530722 3. Build with Leila Hormozi - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-with-leila-hormozi/id1663834553 4. Stay Grounded with Rai Jana - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stay-grounded-with-raj-jana/id1318038490 Support the show Support the Channel - Click the bell to have notifications, like & subscribe! Buy Me Coffee - https://shorturl.at/jKMSX Social Media – Follow us on: TikTok Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554884934328 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inclusivecyberpodcast/ Audio: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6HNQQVKvsCRo2J095Kyc8G Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurity/id1686041111 Website - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2183707 Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/594cca7a-726d-43fe-b94e-36291566e9d8/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurityMusic: Music by Cryptochronica and Worlds Apart featuring Vtizzel; Song: Gunz Blazin' Music: Used with permission: Artist: Thunderwolf X Words Apart, Song: Cybernetix...

    53 min

  5. APR 18

    From Soundwaves to Security with a lot of Curiosity - Kylee's Tech Journey

    Kylee's journey to cybersecurity is amazing. From the Midwest to Southern California’s music and production scene, she built a foundation in audio engineering before pivoting to cybersecurity. Facing life-changing challenges, including single motherhood, Kylee earned degrees in speech, language, and hearing science, followed by a master's in cybersecurity operations and leadership. Her success highlights curiosity, adaptability, resilience, and the immense value of mentorship. Now focused on policy, compliance, risk management, and security awareness training, Kylee emphasizes clear communication and human connection in cybersecurity. Kylee advocates strongly for women in tech, encouraging confidence, networking, and mentorship. Her insights into generative AI and quantum computing point to exciting future opportunities tempered with necessary caution.Kylee's journey reminds us that diverse paths lead to successful tech careers.Have you witnessed unique career transitions into cybersecurity? Share your experiences! SHOW NOTES: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleemarie/ Books 1. "Nexus" by Yuval Noah Harari 2. "Sapiens"by Yuval Noah Harari 3. "Getting the Love You Want" by Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt 4. "The Laws of Human Nature"by Robert Greene 5. "The Art of Seduction"by Robert Greene Support the show Support the Channel - Click the bell to have notifications, like & subscribe! Buy Me Coffee - https://shorturl.at/jKMSX Social Media – Follow us on: TikTok Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554884934328 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inclusivecyberpodcast/ Audio: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6HNQQVKvsCRo2J095Kyc8G Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurity/id1686041111 Website - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2183707 Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/594cca7a-726d-43fe-b94e-36291566e9d8/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurityMusic: Music by Cryptochronica and Worlds Apart featuring Vtizzel; Song: Gunz Blazin' Music: Used with permission: Artist: Thunderwolf X Words Apart, Song: Cybernetix...

    57 min

  6. MAR 29

    Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Laura’s Roadmap in Cybersecurity

    In the latest episode of Inclusive Cyber, Laura shared her inspiring journey through the IT and cybersecurity world. Starting from a humble role in a school district without formal education, she quickly realized the immense opportunities available, thanks to encouragement from mentors who recognized her potential. Laura emphasized the importance of mentors, not necessarily formal educators, as critical drivers in her career. Despite a successful five-year venture as a photography entrepreneur, she returned to cybersecurity after COVID-19. Taking a strategic step back initially allowed her to build confidence, upskill, and thrive. Throughout the discussion, Laura highlighted ongoing industry debates around formal education versus certifications. She argued that while education remains invaluable, practical experience and certifications can open crucial doors, especially for those without traditional educational pathways. Looking forward, Laura aims to establish a nonprofit to support single mothers and marginalized individuals in entering cybersecurity, reinforcing her belief that empowering opportunities can transform lives significantly. Laura's story is a powerful reminder that cybersecurity is not just about technical skills—it's also about resilience, adaptability, and meaningful mentorship. #CyberSecurity #Mentorship #InclusiveCyber #CareerGrowth #EducationVsExperience #NonprofitLeadership Book Recommendations The First, the Few, the Only: How Women of Color Can Redefine Power in Corporate America by Deepa Purushothaman LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-r-b3532726b/ Support the show Support the Channel - Click the bell to have notifications, like & subscribe! Buy Me Coffee - https://shorturl.at/jKMSX Social Media – Follow us on: TikTok Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554884934328 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inclusivecyberpodcast/ Audio: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6HNQQVKvsCRo2J095Kyc8G Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurity/id1686041111 Website - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2183707 Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/594cca7a-726d-43fe-b94e-36291566e9d8/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurityMusic: Music by Cryptochronica and Worlds Apart featuring Vtizzel; Song: Gunz Blazin' Music: Used with permission: Artist: Thunderwolf X Words Apart, Song: Cybernetix...

    34 min

  7. MAR 8

    Creative Minds: Teressa's Story of Cybersecurity, Entrepreneurship, and Music

    In this episode, I sit down with Teressa, a cybersecurity professional with a fascinating journey from art history and anthropology to technical writing and cybersecurity. Teressa shares how her curiosity led her to explore the world of network security and how her non-traditional background has become a unique asset in her career. 🔥 What You'll Learn: How Teressa transitioned from anthropology to cybersecurity through technical writing The importance of curiosity in professional growth How to build supportive mentorship relationships Why cybersecurity needs a humanistic approach Insights into her entrepreneurial journey with PopCykol, a company focused on online safety education for families and kids Teressa’s creative side as a singer-songwriter and how music and cybersecurity intersect in her life 📌 Key Takeaways: The value of a non-traditional career path Strategies for translating technical cybersecurity concepts into accessible language How to leverage curiosity and creativity in cybersecurity Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and insights from cybersecurity professionals with diverse backgrounds! #Cybersecurity #InclusiveCyber #PopCykol #TechCareers #DiversityOfThought #Podcast ------------------------- LINKS Popcykol - https://www.popcykol.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/teressaofpopcykol/ Music - https://www.youtube.com/@qwehrke BOOKS We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman’s Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power by Rachel Rodgers MUSIC Intro - Lazarus https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zsn2bS4eHp0 Outro - Pressure https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_ZHQ7664Pc Support the show Support the Channel - Click the bell to have notifications, like & subscribe! Buy Me Coffee - https://shorturl.at/jKMSX Social Media – Follow us on: TikTok Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554884934328 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inclusivecyberpodcast/ Audio: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6HNQQVKvsCRo2J095Kyc8G Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurity/id1686041111 Website - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2183707 Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/594cca7a-726d-43fe-b94e-36291566e9d8/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurityMusic: Music by Cryptochronica and Worlds Apart featuring Vtizzel; Song: Gunz Blazin' Music: Used with permission: Artist: Thunderwolf X Words Apart, Song: Cybernetix...

    38 min

  8. JAN 27

    Career Pivots and Cyber Paths: Eunice's Path from Medicine to Cybersecurity

    Have you ever had to completely pivot your career dreams? On the latest Episode of Inclusive Cyber, I sat down with Eunice A. Golloh a cybersecurity professional  with a remarkable story of determination and adaptability. Eunice's journey began with dreams of becoming a doctor, but the financial challenges of medical school led her to explore other options. Thanks to a friend’s recommendation, she discovered cybersecurity—a field she knew nothing about at the time. Fast forward nearly a decade, and she’s thriving in a career she loves, pursuing her doctoral degree, and inspiring others to step into their potential. 💡 Key takeaways from our conversation: Don’t fear the pivot. Sometimes life’s biggest opportunities come disguised as detours. Certifications + determination = momentum. Eunice’s first steps into cybersecurity started with certifications, self-study, and sheer grit. Mentorship matters. She emphasized the importance of finding mentors and a support network to push you forward when you feel stuck. Know your "why." Eunice’s nonprofit, Impact Wave Initiative, is dedicated to helping young women discover their purpose through mentorship, financial literacy, and leadership workshops. 👉 What’s your “pivot” story? How have you reinvented yourself or supported someone on their journey? Share your thoughts below! Show Notes LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eunice-a-golloh-53b664153/ Impact Wave Initiative - https://iiwave.org Book Recommendations Find Your Why: A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team By Simon Sinek The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? by Rick Warren Support the show Support the Channel - Click the bell to have notifications, like & subscribe! Buy Me Coffee - https://shorturl.at/jKMSX Social Media – Follow us on: TikTok Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554884934328 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inclusivecyberpodcast/ Audio: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6HNQQVKvsCRo2J095Kyc8G Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurity/id1686041111 Website - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2183707 Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/594cca7a-726d-43fe-b94e-36291566e9d8/inclusive-cyber-unlocking-dei-in-cybersecurityMusic: Music by Cryptochronica and Worlds Apart featuring Vtizzel; Song: Gunz Blazin' Music: Used with permission: Artist: Thunderwolf X Words Apart, Song: Cybernetix...

    37 min
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About

Welcome to Inclusive Cyber: Unlocking Innovation in Cybersecurity, your front-row seat to understand how a diverse mix of voices is not just necessary but essential to defend our most sensitive computer networks and personal data. I’m your host Danny Magallanes, and through my podcast, we shine a spotlight on the heroes and the trailblazers from every corner of society who are redefining the Cultural Renaissance frontier. Every episode is a step toward a cyber community that's as varied as it is united, where everyone has the keys to unlock their potential and the power to protect our digital world. Join us on this journey, where every listen, every share, and every dialogue inches us closer to this new reality

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