Secure Access
In a world where security defines success, are you leading the way? “Secure Access” by Sign In Solutions empowers tech visionaries and executives with groundbreaking insights to master every aspect of security. Join us weekly as we dive deep into the heart of security challenges facing businesses today. Through candid conversations with industry insiders, we uncover the hidden truths and strategies needed to thrive. Whether you're striving to safeguard your organization or propel your career, our podcast equips you with the insights to outperform competitors and secure your future. Don't be left behind—discover the secrets to staying compliant and...Show more
All Episodes
Fixing Broken Clearance Systems & Stopped Insider Threats With Tricia Stokes
In this episode of the Secure Access Podcast, sponsored by Sign in Solutions, host John Dillard is joined by Tricia Stokes, a security expert with over 41 years of experience in various key security roles across the Defense sector. Tricia shares her journey from starting in administrative work to becoming a senior executive, and her experience working with the Army, Navy, and other defense agencies. The conversation explores the importance of a multifunctional approach, continuous improvement, and the critical role of technology in security operations. Tricia also discusses the impact of high-profile security incidents, the challenges of transformation in large organizations, and the value of mentorship and relationships in driving change. Tune in for insights on security leadership, adapting to technological advancements, and fostering a problem-solving culture in security teams. Key Takeaways Embrace continuous improvement: Always look for ways to make things better, no matter your role or organization. Multifunctional experience is a gift: Gaining expertise across disciplines opens doors and builds resilience. Relationships and trust are essential: Success in large organizations depends on credibility, trust, and strong relationships. Leadership buy-in is critical for change: Lasting transformation requires leadership support and clear communication. Listen more than you talk: Effective leaders listen to their teams and align actions with words. Don’t be afraid to take risks: Progress often comes from taking on challenges and being willing to change course. Technology is essential, but people matter most: Leverage the best tools, but never lose sight of the human element. Quotes “Sometimes when you don't look so hard, but you just do a good job at what you're doing, it happens.” “Continuous improvement applies to everything you touch. It's your mindset when you go to work: how can I make it better?” “It's so easy to say no, and it's much harder to say yes, but you gotta get to yes, and you gotta be results oriented.” “You don't want to boil the whole ocean. Start out in the pond, get some success, and then build on that.” “My motto was: don’t say no, say how.” “Always look inward at yourself on how you can make things better before you cast aspersions on other people.” “Never count anybody out. Always believe, if there’s a mountain to climb, you can do it.” Connect and learn more about Tricia Stokes. https://www.linkedin.com/in/tricia-stokes-807819220/ This episode is brought to you by Sign In Solutions. If you found today’s conversation insightful, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. For more on transforming compliance, security, and workplace experiences, visit www.signinsolutions.com.
The Future of Security: AI, Remote Work & Leadership featuring Michelle Lambiasi
In this episode of the Secure Access Podcast, sponsored by Sign in Solutions, host John Dillard is joined by Michelle Lambiasi, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) at SAIC. Michelle shares her journey from an HR intern to a high-profile role in national security, highlighting key career milestones, the impact of mentorship, and battling imposter syndrome. She discusses the evolution of the security landscape, the role of insider threats, and the importance of adaptability. Michelle delves into the unique challenges and strategies related to AI, data centers, and hybrid work environments, stressing the need for policy reforms and inter-agency cooperation. The discussion also covers the future of security talent, the importance of passion in the field, and Michelle's personal interests, including her background in herbalism. Key takeaways Career paths in security are often unplanned; passion and adaptability are essential. Leadership requires shifting from individual contribution to enabling others. The security landscape is rapidly evolving, with remote work and AI presenting new challenges. Breaking down silos and prioritizing the organization's mission over personal interests leads to better security outcomes. Policy and clearance reform are critical to attracting top talent and enabling innovation in national security. Quotes "Nobody ever says I want to be a facility security officer when I grow up." "What got you here won’t get you there." "I always say we need to think about SOY: SAIC first, others second, yourself last." "Never ever, ever let fear get in your way." "I can teach anybody security, but I can’t teach the passion." "Find the source of the problem, don’t treat the symptom." "It’s not a nuclear arms race now, it’s an AI arms race." Connect and learn more about Michelle Lambiasi. https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-joy-lambiasi-isp-shrm-scp-b49b665/ This episode is brought to you by Sign In Solutions. If you found today’s conversation insightful, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. For more on transforming compliance, security, and workplace experiences, visit www.signinsolutions.com.
Predicting and Preventing Security Threats featuring James Bourie
In this episode of the Secure Access Podcast, sponsored by Sign in Solutions, host John Dillard explores the intersection of technology, security, and business with James Bourie, a former Army officer turned entrepreneur and a CEO at Torchlight. Jim shares his journey from military service in Afghanistan and Iraq to founding Torchlight, a company leveraging geolocation data and behavioral analytics to predict and prevent security threats. He discusses the evolution of security technology, the importance of integrating physical and cyber security, and ethical considerations for handling personal data. Jim emphasizes the increasing need for data-driven approaches in security and the vital role of AI in transforming how organizations protect their assets. Key takeaways Data-driven security is the future—understand which data matters most for your organization. The integration of physical and cyber security is essential for modern threat defense. AI and behavioral analytics are transforming how we detect and prevent security incidents. Human judgment and ethical guidelines remain critical, even as technology advances. Security teams must become more data-driven and cross-functional to stay ahead of threats. Quotes “The door's barely even open to this revolution, and I really want to be a part of it.” “The more you can understand how [security tools] work together to solve the use cases you’re working for, the better.” “As Americans, we don’t like the government knowing much about us… The question is how do we use this in a morally, legally righteous way?” “I just don’t see the human coming out of the loop when it comes to security and defense.” “Security professionals need to really understand how [AI] is made, what that is, it’s coming from, and really understand the quality of the data that’s going into it.” “The government is not separate from the corporate world when it comes to security threats. They’re the same threats.” Connect and learn more about James Bourie. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbourie/ This episode is brought to you by Sign In Solutions. If you found today’s conversation insightful, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. For more on transforming compliance, security, and workplace experiences, visit www.signinsolutions.com.
Rethinking How We Protect Data with Debbie Gordon
In this episode of the Secure Access Podcast, sponsored by Sign in Solutions, host John Dillard is joined by Debbie Gordon, CEO of Cloud Range, to discuss her journey from technical education in the mid-90s to creating a pioneering cybersecurity training platform. Debbie shares her experiences in building and selling an IT asset management company before founding Cloud Range, which focuses on hands-on, practical cyber defense training. They delve into the importance of preparedness, the human factor in cybersecurity, and the evolving threat landscape. The conversation also touches on Debbie's leadership philosophy, the emotional aspect of risk management, and the integration of AI in both offensive and defensive cyber strategies. Additionally, Debbie shares insights on the future of cybersecurity, the need for continuous skill development, and Cloud Range’s expansion into sectors like higher education and critical infrastructure. Key takeaways Preparation and practice are essential for effective risk reduction in cybersecurity and beyond. The biggest gap in cyber defense is not just skills, but real-world experience—simulation training bridges this gap. Human factors—communication, collaboration, and team dynamics—are as critical as technical skills in security. Risk is both an objective and emotional issue for organizations; evidence of readiness builds confidence. The threat environment is constantly evolving; ongoing, dynamic training is necessary to stay ahead. Leadership is about authenticity, alignment, and empowering others to grow. Quotes “Preparation and practice is number one.” “You can know the rules, but if you’ve never played the game, can you actually do it?” “People are the weakest link in the chain… the SOC analysts and incident responders are the last line of defense.” “Simulation training is not something that should be an option—it’s becoming a standard.” “Leadership is like golf. You’re never done being good at it, and you have to continue to practice.” “If you can make somebody’s life easier, you have won.” Connect and learn more about Debbie Gordon. https://www.linkedin.com/in/degordon/ This episode is brought to you by Sign In Solutions. If you found today’s conversation insightful, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. For more on transforming compliance, security, and workplace experiences, visit www.signinsolutions.com.