Authentically Cyber

Kathy Chambers

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Technology

Cybersecurity careers rarely follow a straight line. Authentically Cyber explores the real stories behind the people working in cybersecurity today. From career pivots and unexpected first steps to leadership, entrepreneurship, and everything in between, these conversations reveal how people actually break into and grow in cyber. If you're curious about the human side of cybersecurity careers, you're in the right place.

2d ago

How to Stand Out in Today's Cybersecurity Job Market

Looking for your next cybersecurity role but not getting the results you expected? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, Senior Security Engineer Travis Stein shares what he's seeing from the hiring side of today's cybersecurity job market. We discuss why networking matters more than ever, how candidates can genuinely stand out, the importance of finding community, and practical ways to keep moving forward—even when the market feels discouraging. In this episode, we discuss: The current cybersecurity job market What helps candidates stand out Why networking still matters Finding your cybersecurity community Building experience beyond certifications Staying encouraged during a difficult job search
Jul 21

So You Want to Be a Cybersecurity Consultant? Here's What You Should Know

Have you ever thought about becoming a cybersecurity consultant? From the outside, consulting can look like the perfect career—freedom, flexibility, interesting clients, and the opportunity to solve challenging problems. But there's much more to it than technical expertise. In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Hal Pomeranz to discuss what life as a cybersecurity consultant is really like. We cover the rewards, the challenges, and the realities that every aspiring consultant should understand before making the leap. Whether you're considering consulting full-time, starting your own business, or simply curious about the profession, this conversation offers practical insights from someone who's spent years helping organizations solve complex security problems. If you're thinking about making the jump into consulting, this is a conversation worth watching. Read Hal's Consulting Series: https://righteousit.com/category/consulting/ Help Fuel Authentically Cyber: https://buymeacoffee.com/kathychambers
Jul 14

How to Build a Cybersecurity Career

Breaking into cybersecurity is one challenge. Building a long, successful career is another. In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with cybersecurity leader and author Helen Patton to discuss what it really takes to grow in this industry—from landing your first role to leading security teams. We explore career growth beyond certifications, when to specialize versus pivot, the importance of networking and mentorship, developing leadership skills, and how to take ownership of your career instead of waiting for opportunities to appear. Whether you're trying to break into cybersecurity, earn your next promotion, or prepare for leadership, this conversation offers practical guidance for every stage of the journey. Check out Helen's books: Navigating the Cyber Security Career Path: https://a.co/d/01RpMi49 Switching to Cyber: The Mid-Career Guide to Launching a Cybersecurity Career: https://a.co/d/04C7e1mA Help fuel Authentically Cyber: https://buymeacoffee.com/kathychambers
Jul 7

Inside the World of Dark Web Research

What does a dark web researcher actually do? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with dark web researcher Matthew Maynard to explore the realities behind one of cybersecurity's most misunderstood roles. We discuss how Matthew got started in dark web research, what a typical day looks like, and the biggest misconceptions people have about the dark web. We also explore the human side of the work—how constant exposure to criminal activity, threat intelligence, and underground communities can shape the way you think about trust, online behavior, and the world around you. Topics include: • Breaking into dark web research • What dark web researchers actually do • Common myths and misconceptions • The psychology of spending time in criminal communities • Mental and emotional challenges of the work • Separating work from personal life • Surprising lessons from years of research • Advice for aspiring researchers Whether you're curious about cybersecurity careers, threat intelligence, or the realities behind the headlines, this conversation offers a rare look inside a fascinating field.
Jun 30

How to Network in Cybersecurity (Even If You're Shy)

Networking is one of the most valuable skills in cybersecurity—but for many people, it's also one of the most intimidating. In this episode of Authentically Cyber, Kathy Chambers sits down with Mara Levy to talk about building meaningful professional relationships, making connections at conferences and events, and finding creative ways to start conversations—even if you're naturally shy or introverted. Mara shares practical strategies that have helped her connect with people throughout her career, along with tips for approaching networking with confidence, authenticity, and curiosity. Whether you're new to cybersecurity, looking to grow your network, or simply tired of hearing "just put yourself out there," this conversation offers actionable ideas you can start using right away. In this episode: Why networking matters in cybersecurity How to start conversations when you're shy Creative ways to meet new people at events Building authentic professional relationships Turning introductions into long-term connections Common networking mistakes to avoid
Jun 23

I Started Over 5 Times | From Teacher to GRC Founder

What happens when you refuse to let one career path define your future? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Blessing Ebare to talk about one of the most unconventional career journeys you'll hear. Over the last eight years, Blessing has transitioned from zoology student to biology teacher, anti-money laundering professional, chartered accountant, data protection officer, cybersecurity practitioner, and now founder of her own GRC company. We discuss: • Navigating multiple career pivots • Building confidence in unfamiliar industries • Managing imposter syndrome while learning new skills • Why your degree doesn't have to determine your future • The mindset required to reinvent yourself repeatedly If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to change careers, this conversation is for you.
Jun 16

Starting a Business at 50: The Fear, Doubt, and Leap of Faith

What would make someone leave a stable, successful career at 50 to start over? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Evan Tsai about the leap so many people think about but few actually take. After nearly two decades working across IT, audit, compliance, cybersecurity, and risk management, our guest reached a breaking point: burnout. Instead of doubling down on the path he knew, he chose uncertainty and launched his own GRC company. He's not sharing a story of overnight success. He's sharing what it's like to start over without having all the answers. We discuss: • Burnout and redefining success • The fear of leaving stability behind • Entrepreneurship later in life • Imposter syndrome and self-doubt • Balancing ambition with family • Finding purpose in a new chapter
Jun 11

How a Social Engineer Overcame Imposter Syndrome

Rosa Rowles never planned on a career in cybersecurity. After starting in hospitality, working challenging schedules, and struggling to find the right career fit, she discovered an unexpected path through psychology, human behavior, and social engineering. In this episode of Authentically Cyber, Rosa shares her journey from introvert to social engineer, the emotional challenges she faced along the way, and how she used social engineering techniques on herself to overcome self-doubt and impostor syndrome. We discuss confidence, public speaking, career transitions, work-life balance, and practical advice for anyone interested in social engineering or breaking into cybersecurity from a non-traditional background.

Cybersecurity careers rarely follow a straight line. Authentically Cyber explores the real stories behind the people working in cybersecurity today. From career pivots and unexpected first steps to leadership, entrepreneurship, and everything in between, these conversations reveal how people actually break into and grow in cyber. If you're curious about the human side of cybersecurity careers, you're in the right place.

Creator

Kathy Chambers
Years Active

2026
Episodes

18
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Kathy Chambers Media 2026
Show Website

Authentically Cyber