Root To CISO

Kris Rides
  • 5.0 (2)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Do you aspire to become a Chief Information Security Officer?The Root to CISO podcast provides firsthand career stories from experienced CISOs on their journey to success in the cybersecurity industry.  Offering valuable guidance for aspiring professionals in the field through personal experiences and practical advice. 

  1. 3D AGO

    From Public Service to Global Security: A CISO’s Journey | Root to CISO Podcast

    In the Season 2 finale of Root to CISO, we sit down with Dr. Alissa “Dr. Jay” Abdullah, Deputy Chief Security Officer at Mastercard and former Deputy CIO of the White House under President Obama. Her path to cybersecurity was anything but traditional, pivoting into mathematics, cryptography, and ultimately some of the most high-profile technology and security leadership roles in the world. Dr. Jay shares how her foundation in public service shaped her leadership style, why moving between public and private sectors strengthened her perspective, and the common thread that has guided her career: a passion for technology and cybersecurity.

    35 min

  2. SEP 2

    Resumes, Interviews, and Resilience: Career Lessons from a CISO | Root To CISO Podcast

    In Part Two of our conversation with Barbee Mooneyhan, CISO at Uplight, we dive into one of the biggest challenges in cybersecurity—and beyond: breaking into the industry and advancing your career. Barbee shares practical advice on how to translate transferable skills, tailor resumes for each stage of your career, and approach interviews with confidence and authenticity. She also opens up about perseverance, offering her most personal piece of career advice: why sometimes the most important step is simply to keep going.  For more cyber-related career insights, connect with us on LinkedIn and visit www.roottociso.com!

    46 min

  3. AUG 26

    Finding Your Path in Cybersecurity with Barbee Mooneyhan | Root To CISO Podcast

    Root To CISO

    38 min

  4. AUG 12

    Navigating the Cybersecurity World with CISO Don Baham | Root To CISO Podcast

    Root To CISO

    45 min

  5. AUG 5

    Cybersecurity Careers: Building Leadership and Credibility | Root To CISO Podcast

    In this episode of Root to CISO, we sit down with Don Baham, President of Kraft Technology Group and a seasoned security leader, for an open and insightful conversation about the road to executive leadership. Don shares his approach to building strong relationships, maintaining composure under pressure, and leading with clarity and trust. Whether you're growing into leadership or already managing teams, Don’s calm, candid perspective offers valuable lessons for anyone shaping a long-term career in business, security, or executive management. For more cyber-related career insights, connect with us on LinkedIn and visit www.roottociso.com!

    38 min

  6. JUL 29

    Leading with Accountability and Authenticity in Cybersecurity | Root To CISO Podcast

    In this episode of Root to CISO, Amanda Hartle, Chief Information Security Officer, reflects on the leadership lessons that shaped her career—from early ambitions to executive decision-making. She shares the pivotal advice she’d give her younger self, emphasizing the power of humility, accountability, and authentic leadership. Whether you're in cybersecurity or simply on your own leadership path, Amanda’s wisdom is both accessible and inspiring. For more cyber-related career insights, connect with us on LinkedIn and visit www.roottociso.com!

    56 min

  7. JUL 22

    How to Grow In Cybersecurity By Asking the Right Questions | Amanda Hartle | Root To CISO Podcast

    In this episode of The Root to CISO Podcast, Amanda Fennell (Hartle)—Chief Security Officer and CIO at Prove Identity—shares her journey from digital forensics to leading enterprise security and technology strategy. Amanda discusses the pivotal moments that helped her find her voice in high-pressure environments, why curiosity is still her most powerful tool, and how a mission-driven mindset shapes the best cybersecurity teams. From leading investigations in freezing server rooms to sitting across from four-star generals at the Pentagon, Amanda’s path is anything but ordinary. Tune in for lessons on leadership, confidence, and creating impact in security—no matter where you start. For more cyber-related career insights, connect with us on LinkedIn and visit www.roottociso.com!

    47 min

  8. JUL 15

    Discovering Cybersecurity and Owning It: With CISO Melina Scotto | Root To CISO Podcast

    In this episode of The Root to CISO Podcast, Melina Scotto shares her unconventional path into cybersecurity and how she transformed early career uncertainty into executive leadership. From discovering cybersecurity later in life to leading large-scale federal programs, Melina talks about the importance of saying “yes” to new challenges, building cross-functional relationships, and making security everyone’s responsibility. She also shares how she launched weekly cybersecurity sessions that engaged staff at every level—from help desk teams to the CIO—creating a culture where learning, collaboration, and curiosity are encouraged. Whether you're new to the field or leading at the top, this conversation is full of actionable insights on building influence, driving impact, and creating a more inclusive cybersecurity culture. For more cyber-related career insights, connect with us on LinkedIn and visit www.roottociso.com!

    38 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Do you aspire to become a Chief Information Security Officer?The Root to CISO podcast provides firsthand career stories from experienced CISOs on their journey to success in the cybersecurity industry.  Offering valuable guidance for aspiring professionals in the field through personal experiences and practical advice. 

Information

  • Creator
    Kris Rides
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Root To CISO
  • Show Website
    Root To CISO

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