The Identity Heroes

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The Identity Heroes brings real stories from the frontlines of identity to life. Hear from architects, CISOs, and practitioners as they share authentic insights and tactical lessons. Curious, smart, and a little rebellious, this series celebrates the people solving today’s toughest identity challenges. Because no one goes to school for IAM.

10/23/2025

#8 – From Books to Bytes: The Common Patterns Between Library Science and Identity Standards (with Heather Flanagan)

In this episode of The Identity Heroes, Heather Flanagan — Principal at Spherical Cow Consulting — shares how her background in library science laid the foundation for a career simplifying complexity and shaping global identity standards. Heather takes us from her early days as a librarian-in-training to managing systems at Stanford and Duke, to becoming a key facilitator across W3C, IETF, and OpenID Foundation working groups. Along the way, she reveals how the skills of organizing, indexing, and communicating translate seamlessly into technology — and why non-coders play an essential role in driving progress in IAM. 🎯 This conversation dives into: The parallels between library science and identity standardsHow simplifying complexity — the “spherical cow” way — makes hard problems solvableWhy non-coders, facilitators, and implementers matter in standards workThe challenge of delegation and digital legacy in the AI eraWhat mentorship and communication can teach us about collaboration ✨ Key Themes & Takeaways Library science and identity standards share the same DNA: structure, clarity, and organizationSimplification is a superpower in problem-solvingDiversity of skills strengthens technical communitiesDelegation and digital legacy remain key challenges in a digital-first worldMentorship and shared learning sustain the identity community Whether you come from tech or the humanities, Heather’s story shows that identity needs every kind of mind — not just coders. 🔗 Explore more Identity Heroes: https://www.strata.io/identityheroes 🎙️ The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest and do not represent the opinions of their employer or family.

41 min
09/25/2025

#7 - From sales to IAM leadership: Building trust & empowering teams (with Clint Hardison)

In this episode of The Identity Heroes, Clint Hardison — AVP of Identity & Access Management at Navy Federal — shares his non-linear journey from international furniture sales to IAM leadership. Clint reflects on the turning points that shaped his career, from humbling resets to building authentication systems for millions of members. He opens up about the role of listening, vulnerability, and trust in leadership — and why his team lives by the motto “How can we help?” 🎯 This conversation dives into: Why IAM careers don’t follow a straight line — and why that’s a good thing How communication and listening (WAIT: “Why Am I Talking?”) build stronger leaders Why vulnerability creates trust and stronger team culture The importance of investing in training and people development How to position identity so it resonates across the business ✨ Key Themes & Takeaways Careers in identity don’t follow straight lines — and that’s a strength Listening and communication are underrated leadership superpowers Vulnerability builds trust and team culture Investing in training pays off for individuals and organizations Identity leaders must translate complexity into business value Simple mottos like “How can we help?” transform teams Whether you’re new to IAM or leading a global team, Clint’s story proves that growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. 🔗 Explore more Identity Heroes: https://www.strata.io/identityheroes 🎙️ The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest and do not represent the opinions of their employer or family.

43 min
08/29/2025

#6 - Securing the New Perimeter: AI agents, risk & reality in IAM (with Amit Vaidya)

In this episode of The Identity Heroes, we’re joined by Amit Vaidya, former SVP of Identity, Fraud & Data Protection at PNC Bank. From navigating fraud and security risk at one of the nation’s largest banks to thinking ahead about AI agents and enterprise IAM, Amit shares a grounded, strategic perspective on what it really takes to secure identity at scale. He unpacks how organizations can make identity measurable, prioritize the right outcomes, and build resilient systems—even with limited resources. Amit also shares sharp insights for vendors, including what not to do when selling to enterprises, and how to build relationships that actually solve customer pain. 🎯 This conversation dives into: Why identity is the new perimeter How to lead IAM strategy with ROI and risk What AI agents mean for the future of IAM Why visibility and guardrails are critical in an AI-driven world The business-first mindset that elevates security leadership ✨ Key Themes & Takeaways AI agents must be accounted for in today’s IAM strategies Risk-based identity programs drive better business alignment Identity is core to fraud prevention—not just IT hygiene ROI is the language that gets IAM funded Vendors should solve problems, not pitch features Guardrails for AI are the next enterprise priority 🔗 Explore more Identity Heroes: https://www.strata.io/identityheroes 🎙️ The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest and do not represent the opinions of their employer or family.

33 min
07/30/2025

#5 - Inside the BISO Mindset: Prioritize, Listen, Lead (with Chris Rich)

In this episode of The Identity Heroes, Chris Rich, the Business Information Security Officer at MassMutual, joins Aldo Pietropaolo for an insightful discussion on modern identity and cybersecurity leadership. Chris shares his unique career journey—from sales and theater to leading IAM at a Fortune 100 financial firm—and explores the difference between customer and workforce identity, the importance of stakeholder trust, and the balance between risk and user experience. This conversation is full of real-world wisdom for those navigating the identity space. Key Takeaways: IAM can transform organizations when aligned with business outcomesSecurity must enable—not obstruct—the user journeyPrioritization is critical in cybersecurity decision-makingCustomer identity requires a different approach from workforce identityCourage and listening are vital leadership skills This conversation dives into: The evolving role of a BISOThe tension between security and frictionHow IAM supports customer trust in financial servicesMeasuring success and prioritizing initiativesThe future of cybersecurity in the age of AI 🎙 The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest and do not represent the opinions of their employer or family. 🔗 Explore more episodes: https://www.strata.io/identityheroes

47 min
06/20/2025

#4 - The Identity Jedi Path: Setbacks, Resilience & IAM Wisdom (with David Lee)

In this episode of The Identity Heroes, David Lee—aka The Identity Jedi—opens up about his unfiltered path into identity and access management, from unexpected beginnings to big entrepreneurial swings. David shares how adversity shaped his leadership style, how clarity often follows chaos, and why communication is the most overlooked superpower in tech. This isn’t a polished “success story”—it’s a raw, reflective look at identity careers, personal growth, and what it really takes to lead with purpose. This conversation dives deep into: Turning challenges into clarity and growthWhat “representation” really looks like in identityBuilding programs that deliver business valueHow to empower teams when resources are tightThe future of AI and identity collaboration Whether you're navigating your own IAM path or coaching others, David’s story is a must-listen. Key Themes & Takeaways Identity careers rarely follow a script—but that’s where the magic happensCommunication is a leadership skill, not a soft skillAdversity builds clarity, focus, and gritRepresentation fuels visibility and connectionMeasuring impact matters more than measuring effortCreativity drives progress—especially in resource-constrained teamsThe strongest leaders know when to ask for helpAI is an accelerator—not a replacement—for IAM strategy Chapters 00:00 Intro to Identity Heroes & David Lee 02:59 David Lee’s Journey into Identity 06:09 Career Evolution: IAM and Beyond 08:57 Entrepreneurship and Lessons Learned 12:01 Communication: The Overlooked IAM Skill 14:59 Navigating Setbacks & Pivotal Moments 18:06 Future of Identity & Growth 31:01 Embracing Reflection in Career Paths 34:40 Finding Clarity Through Adversity 39:58 Representation and Connection in Identity 41:54 Empowering Teams with Limited Resources 45:36 Measuring Success in IAM Programs 49:31 Identity, AI & What’s Next 🔗 Explore more Identity Heroes: https://www.strata.io/identityheroes 🎙️ The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest and do not represent the opinions of their employer or family.

50 min
05/28/2025

#3 - From Biomedical Engineering to CISO: Identity Lessons They Don’t Teach in School (with Sulohita Vaddadi)

In this episode of The Identity Heroes, Sulohita Vaddadi—Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at GE Corporate—joins us to share her unconventional journey into cybersecurity and identity. From a background in biomedical engineering to leading identity at one of the world’s most recognized enterprises, Sulohita reflects on how technical expertise, project management, and humility helped shape her career. She shares the importance of cross-functional collaboration, what she learned from failed projects, and how vendors can earn lasting trust by being honest partners—not just sellers. This conversation dives into: What skills matter most for IAM leaders todayHow to communicate identity’s value across the businessWhy it’s critical to design for compliance and adoptionPractical tips for doing more with leaner teams Whether you're building your first identity program or leading strategy at the enterprise level, Sulohita’s insights offer a candid, actionable view into modern IAM leadership. Key Themes & Takeaways Identity is a business enabler, not a back-office functionSuccess in cybersecurity should align with strategic outcomesLearning from failure is a vital part of career growthThe best vendors act like partners—not just sellersClear expectations and smart prioritization enable lean teams to thriveAsking for help is a sign of leadership, not weaknessProject management and communication are IAM superpowersDefining business value clearly drives stronger adoptionEmpathy and transparency strengthen vendor and internal collaborationTechnical success means nothing without operational success Chapters 00:00 Exploring Sulohita's Heroic Journey 03:53 Accidental Journey into Cybersecurity Career 07:40 Career Transition: Architect to Identity Leader 09:45 Designing a Degree in Identity 14:23 Vendor to Client-Side Transition 19:14 Career Challenges: Lessons and Turning Points 20:24 Infrastructure Challenges Delay Project Success 23:35 Failing Forward in Business 28:20 Maximizing Cybersecurity Through Effective MFA Usage 32:37 Fostering Transparency and Empathy 35:31 Streamlining Identity Infrastructure Management 36:29 Maximizing Learning Opportunities 41:12 Skunk Work Innovations in AI Consulting 43:39 AI's Future in Sci-Fi Literature 🔗 Want more Identity Heroes? Visit strata.io/identityheroes to explore all episodes, get show notes, and meet our guests. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest and do not represent the opinions of their employer or family.

46 min
05/28/2025

#2 - Building an Identity Career: Networking, Overcoming Setbacks & Finding Open Doors (with Sebastian Rohr)

In this episode of The Identity Heroes, Sebastian Rohr—Founder of Umbrella Associates and the globally beloved “IdentiBeer Guy”—joins us to share his unfiltered journey through the identity space. From a start in chemical engineering to building community and driving innovation in IAM, Sebastian reflects on the surprising twists that shaped his career. He opens up about how pivotal moments—including those that didn’t go as planned—ultimately led him to discover his passion for mentorship, entrepreneurship, and helping others succeed. This conversation dives deep into: The power of networking and storytelling in career growthWhy autonomy builds better teams and better IAM outcomesHow to empower others and pay it forward in your own journeyThe importance of diversity, mentorship, and continuous learning in techFuture identity trends—from AI to community-driven innovationWhether you’re leading an IAM team or just getting started in your career, Sebastian’s story is a reminder that identity work is deeply human—and no two paths look the same. Key Themes & Takeaways Identity careers don’t have straight lines—and that’s a good thingNetworking is an underrated superpower in IAMCommunity matters more than credentialsFailures can be the best turning pointsEmpowered teams do more with lessAutonomy fuels growth—for individuals and orgsOpen source and open doors go hand-in-handEveryone can mentor—even if you're still learningAI will change IAM—but curiosity will keep you ahead Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Identity Heroes and IdentiBeer 02:47 The Growth of the IdentiBeer Community 06:03 Sebastian's Career Journey: From Chemistry to Identity 08:50 The Importance of Networking in Identity Management 11:50 Lessons from Microsoft: The Value of Resilience 15:09 Building a Career in Identity: Skills and Insights 17:53 The Role of Autonomy in Professional Growth 24:49 Finding Mentorship in the Industry 31:14 Measuring Success in Entrepreneurship 38:12 Empowering Teams to Do More with Less 43:58 Future Trends in Identity and Access Management 48:04 Engaging with the Community and Networking🔗 Want more Identity Heroes? Visit strata.io/identityheroes to explore all episodes, get show notes, and meet our guests.

47 min
05/28/2025

#1 - Inside the Plot Twists Reshaping IAM: Standards, Privacy & Leadership (with Eve Maler)

Welcome to the premiere episode of The Identity Heroes, a podcast series that explores the real-world journeys of identity leaders and the unexpected turns that shaped them. Our first guest is none other than Eve Maler, President and Founder of Venn Factory, and a foundational force in identity standards. She’s also one of the most sharp, candid voices in the IAM space. In this episode, hosts Mark Callahan and Gerry Gebel sit down with Eve to unpack her multifaceted journey—from technical editing to standards author to CTO—and how every “non-obvious” step opened up the next. For Eve, identity has never been linear: “My career is a fractal, not a ladder.” We cover a lot of ground, including: How vendor vs. enterprise mindsets shape innovation cyclesWhy consent is broken—and what identity can’t fix aloneThe rise of agentic AI and the future of delegation in identityWhy relationship graphs might be identity’s next superpowerAnd how mentorship and discomfort helped Eve grow into leadershipKey Themes & Takeaways Identity careers aren’t linear—and they shouldn’t be“Flow lives just outside your comfort zone”Vendors live in the future; enterprises live in the pastConsent can’t be solved by IAM alone—it’s a cross-functional challengeDelegation needs to evolve beyond OAuth semanticsIdentity must move beyond claims to relationshipsMentorship, coaching, and real talk make careers (and keep us sane)Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Identity Heroes 05:52 – Navigating Comfort Zones and Imposter Syndrome 12:00 – Trends and Innovations in Identity 18:05 – Future Trends and Challenges in Identity 25:24 – The Future of Privacy and Security 31:09 – The Role of Standards and Organizations in Identity 36:43 – Making the Business Case for Identity 44:50 – Coaching and Mentorship in Identity Management Visit https://www.strata.io/identityheroes to watch the episode in video.

43 min

8 Episodes

Creator

The Identity Heroes
Years Active

2K
Episodes

8
Rating

Explicit
Show Website

The Identity Heroes

The Identity Heroes

Episodes

#8 – From Books to Bytes: The Common Patterns Between Library Science and Identity Standards (with Heather Flanagan)

#7 - From sales to IAM leadership: Building trust & empowering teams (with Clint Hardison)

#6 - Securing the New Perimeter: AI agents, risk & reality in IAM (with Amit Vaidya)

#5 - Inside the BISO Mindset: Prioritize, Listen, Lead (with Chris Rich)

#4 - The Identity Jedi Path: Setbacks, Resilience & IAM Wisdom (with David Lee)

#3 - From Biomedical Engineering to CISO: Identity Lessons They Don’t Teach in School (with Sulohita Vaddadi)

#2 - Building an Identity Career: Networking, Overcoming Setbacks & Finding Open Doors (with Sebastian Rohr)

#1 - Inside the Plot Twists Reshaping IAM: Standards, Privacy & Leadership (with Eve Maler)

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