

CISO Tradecraft®
G Mark Hardy & Ross Young
You are not years away from accomplishing your career goals, you are skills away. Learn the Tradecraft to Take Your Cybersecurity Skills to the Executive Level. © Copyright 2025, National Security Corporation. All Rights Reserved
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 27, 2025 • 45min
#217 - Includes No Dirt (with Bill Dougherty)
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy sits down with Bill Dougherty, CISO of Omada Health, to discuss a groundbreaking threat model called 'Includes No Dirt'. This comprehensive model integrates security, privacy, and compliance considerations, aiming to streamline and enhance threat modeling processes. The conversation covers the origin and principles of the model, its applicability across different sectors, and the essential aspects of threat modeling. Listeners are also treated to insights on handling third-party risks and adapting to emerging AI challenges. The episode provides practical advice for cybersecurity leaders looking to effectively manage and mitigate risks while reducing redundancy.
Big Thanks to our Sponsors:
ZeroPath - https://zeropath.com/
CruiseCon - Use code CISOTRADECRAFT10 at https://cruisecon.com/ for 10% off registration!
The No DIRT Threat Model can be found here: http://www.includesnodirt.com/nodirt.pdf
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vWq4Zx7pzM_B65W933m8_TE0fLKaUw3X
Chapters
03:27 The Genesis of Includes No Dirt
05:05 Combining Security, Privacy, and Compliance
07:24 Implementing the No Dirt Model
11:42 Scoring and Evaluating Risks
17:41 Third-Party Risk Management
25:49 Evaluating SaaS Requests Based on Risk
27:55 Adapting Threat Models for AI
31:24 Principles of Minimum Necessary Data
33:42 General Applicability of Security Principles
35:12 Includes No Dirt: A Comprehensive Threat Model
40:15 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Jan 20, 2025 • 46min
#216 - The TTPs of a Security Champions Program (with Dustin Lehr)
Join G. Mark Hardy in a riveting episode of CISO Tradecraft as he sits down with Dustin Lehr to uncover strategies for creating security champions among developers. Explore effective techniques to inspire culture change, leverage AI tools for security, and discover the difference between leadership and management. This insightful discussion includes actionable steps to establish a robust security champions program, from defining a vision to executing with gamification. Whether you’re an aspiring champion or a seasoned cybersecurity leader, this episode is packed with valuable insights to elevate your organization’s security practices.
Big Thanks to our Sponsors:
ZeroPath - https://zeropath.com/
CruiseCon - Use code CISOTRADECRAFT10 at https://cruisecon.com/ for 10% off registration!
Transcripts - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IgPbmnNaEF_1GIQTRxHStOoUKtZM4azH
Learn more about this topic by reading Justin's Website - https://securitychampionsuccessguide.org/
Justin Lehr's Company - https://www.katilyst.com/
Chapters
01:05 Meet Dustin Lair
04:05 Leadership vs. Management
06:17 The Role of Security Champions
17:20 Recruiting Security Champions
24:42 Exploring the Framework: Vision and Goals
26:25 Defining Participants and Their Roles
28:37 Understanding the Current Setting
33:27 Conceptualizing Ideal Actions
35:20 Designing with Gamification in Mind
40:30 Effective Delivery and Continuous Tuning
41:30 Overcoming Challenges and Final Thoughts

Jan 13, 2025 • 19min
#215 - CISO Predictions for 2025
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy explores the top 10 cybersecurity predictions for 2025. From the rise of AI influencers to new standards in encryption, Hardy discusses significant trends and changes expected in the cybersecurity landscape. The episode delves into topics such as branding, application security, browser-based security, and post-quantum cryptography, aiming to prepare listeners for future challenges and advancements in the field.
Big Thanks to our Sponsor
CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
Team8 Fixing AppSec Paper - https://bunny-wp-pullzone-pqzn4foj9c.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fixing-AppSec-Paper.pdf
Terraform and Open Policy Agent Example - https://spacelift.io/blog/terraform-best-practices#8-introduce-policy-as-code
Transcripts - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u6B2PrkJ1D14d9HjQQHSg7Fan3M6n4dy
Chapters
01:19 1) AI Influencers become normalized
03:17 2) The Importance of Production Quality in Branding
05:19 3) Google and Apple Collaboration for Enhanced Security
06:28 4) Consolidation in Application Security and Vulnerability Management
08:36 5) The Rise of Models Committees
09:09 6) Formalizing the CISO Role
11:03 7) Exclusive CISO Retreats: The New Trend
12:12 8) Automating Cybersecurity Tasks with Agentic AI
13:10 9) Browser-Based Security Solutions
14:22 10) Post-Quantum Cryptography: Preparing for the Future

Jan 6, 2025 • 46min
#214 - Deceive to Detect (with Yuriy Gatupov)
🔥 Hackers Beware! Cyber Deception is Changing the Game 🔥
In this must-hear episode of CISO Tradecraft, we expose a mind-blowing cybersecurity strategy that flips the script on attackers. Instead of waiting to be breached, cyber deception technology tricks hackers into revealing themselves—before they can do real damage. 🚨🎭
Imagine laying digital traps—fake credentials, bogus systems, and irresistible bait—that lead cybercriminals straight into a controlled maze where every move they make is tracked.
Early threat detection? ✅
Real-time attacker intel? ✅
Fewer false positives? ✅
🎙️ Featuring deception tech guru Yuriy Gatupov, we break down:
✅ How deception tech works & why it’s a game-changer
✅ How to expose and track hackers in real time
✅ How to prove ROI and make the case for your org Cyber deception isn’t just defense—it’s offense against cyber threats. Are you ready to fight back? Listen now!
Big thanks to our Sponsors
ThreatLocker - https://hubs.ly/Q02_HRGK0
CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
Contact Yuriy Gatupov - info@labyrinth.tech
Yuri's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuriy-gatupov-373155281/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oyQzCBRoPLbDOCOCypJMGGXxcPI5w75o
Chapters
02:05 History of Cyber Deception
04:57 Advantages of Deception Technology
06:57 Engagement and Detection Strategies
10:18 How Deception Technology Works
16:13 Attack Scenarios and Detection
24:09 Decoys and Deception: A New Paradigm
24:56 Real-World Success Stories
33:30 Deception in OT and SCADA Systems
37:38 Calculating ROI for Deception Technologies

Dec 30, 2024 • 46min
#213 - How to Build a Successful Cybersecurity Startup (with Ross Haleliuk)
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy interviews Ross Haleliuk, author of 'Cyber for Builders: The Essential Guide to Building a Cybersecurity Startup.' Ross shares valuable insights on starting a cybersecurity company, and emphasizes the importance of understanding market needs, customer engagement, and trust in the industry. They discuss the role of angel investors, the differences between product and service companies, and the challenges founders face. The episode also includes an announcement about CISO Tradecraft's partnership with CruiseCon for an upcoming cybersecurity conference. Additionally, Ross provides a glimpse into his non-traditional background and journey into the cybersecurity space.
Thank you to our sponsors
- ThreatLocker - https://hubs.ly/Q02_HRGK0
- CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
Ross Haleliuk's Book - https://www.amazon.com/Cyber-Builders-Essential-Building-Cybersecurity/dp/173823410X/
Ross Haleliuk's LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosshaleliuk/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1b8UPolYvYWEYbmO7n_7NqrilObv-HNzo
Chapters
02:28 Ross Haleliuk's Background and Journey
04:32 Discussing the Book: Cyber for Builders
10:52 Insights on Cybersecurity and Business
15:54 Challenges and Realities of Cybersecurity Startups
22:19 Navigating Market Competition
23:15 Entering Established Markets
24:28 Challenges in Security Tool Adoption
25:11 Legacy Vendors and Market Entrenchment
27:35 Building a Company: Beyond the Product
30:02 Validating Market Needs
32:27 Funding Your Startup
35:25 The Role of Angel Investors
43:29 Conclusion and Next Steps

Dec 23, 2024 • 46min
#212 - Repeatable, Attestable, and Defensible AI (with AWS's Former Deputy CISO Merritt Baer)
Join us on CISO Tradecraft as we explore the future of cybersecurity with Merritt Barrett, former Deputy CISO at AWS. Merritt, a Harvard Law graduate, shares her expert insights on the trends expected in the upcoming years, emphasizing the enduring aspects of cybersecurity, the implications of AI, and challenges in cloud security. Discover valuable strategies for managing security risks, the evolution of ransomware, and the integration of sustainable practices within the industry. Don't miss this episode filled with practical advice for current and aspiring CISOs!
Thank you to our sponsors
- ThreatLocker - https://hubs.ly/Q02_HRGK0
- CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
Transcripts https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KRkN7jVZvAaYk1eSBde3GTiD-G9RPjXJ
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview
01:16 Future of Cybersecurity
02:18 AWS Security Insights
04:35 Shared Responsibility Model
09:59 AI in Cybersecurity
21:55 Security and Environmental Concerns
32:36 Predictions for 2025 and Beyond
42:46 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Dec 16, 2024 • 28min
#211 - Allowlisting and Ringfencing (with Kieran Human)
In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy discusses the history and evolution of endpoint protection with guest Kieran Human from ThreatLocker. Starting from the inception of antivirus software by John McAfee in the late 1980s, the episode delves into the advancements through Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and introduces the latest in endpoint security: allowlisting and ring fencing. The conversation highlights the limitations of traditional antivirus and EDR solutions in today's threat landscape, emphasizing the necessity of default-deny approaches to enhance cybersecurity. Kieran explains how ThreatLocker’s allowlisting and ring-fencing capabilities can block unauthorized applications and actions, thus significantly reducing the risk of malware and ransomware attacks. Practical insights, war stories, and deployment strategies are shared to help cybersecurity leaders implement these next-generation tools effectively.
Thank you to our sponsor ThreatLocker
https://hubs.ly/Q02_HRGK0
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UMrK44ysBjltNkddCkwx9ly6GJ14tIbC
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Endpoint Protection
00:41 Upcoming Event: CruiseCon 2025
01:18 History of Endpoint Protection
03:34 Evolution of Antivirus to EDR
05:25 Next-Gen Endpoint Protection: Allowlisting
06:44 Guest Introduction: Kieran Human from ThreatLocker
08:06 Benefits of Allowlisting and Ring Fencing
17:14 Challenges and Best Practices
26:19 Conclusion and Call to Action

Dec 9, 2024 • 46min
#210 - Salt Typhoon and Vulnerable Telecoms
In this crucial episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the urgent topic of the 'Salt Typhoon' threat, with insights from experts Adam Isles and Andreas Kurland from the Chertoff Group. The episode covers the implications for corporate security using SMS text messages when Chinese actors are breaking into major telecommunication entities. The conversation focuses on encryption, secure communications, and measures to mitigate risks from vulnerabilities in telecommunications infrastructure. The discussion includes practical steps for securing messaging, voice calls, virtual meetings, and emails. Learn actionable strategies to bolster your organization’s cybersecurity posture and ensure robust defense against sophisticated state-level cyber threats.
Thank you to our sponsor Threat Locker
https://www.threatlocker.com/pages/essential-eight-fast-track?utm_source=ciso_tradecraft&utm_medium=sponsor&utm_campaign=essential-eight_q4_24&utm_content=essential-eight&utm_term=podcast
Link to recommendations:
https://chertoffgroup.com/end-to-end-encryption-is-essential/
Transcripts https://docs.google.com/document/d/13NKPUBU3c-qYQtX18NR08oYVRSSnHD_a
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Salt Typhoon
01:31 Meet the Experts: Adam Isles and Andreas Kurland
02:03 Understanding the Salt Typhoon Threat
04:49 Telecommunications and Security Risks
07:37 Messaging Security: Risks and Recommendations
20:14 Voice Communication Security
28:44 Securing Virtual Meetings
34:45 Email Security: Challenges and Solutions
41:35 Conclusion and Contact Information

Dec 2, 2024 • 49min
#209 - AI Singularity (with Richard Thieme)
In this riveting episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy welcomes back Richard Thieme, a thought leader in cybersecurity and technology, almost three years after his last appearance. Richard delves into the necessity of thinking like a hacker, provides insights into the AI singularity, and discusses the ethical and societal implications of emerging technologies. The conversation also touches on Richard's extensive body of work, including his books and views on cyber warfare, disinformation, and ethical decision-making. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and explores the interconnectedness of technology, consciousness, and our future.
Big Thanks to our Sponsor CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
Link to Richard’s home page (and links to Amazon for his books):
https://thiemeworks.com/
Link to the book, The Ending of Time:
https://store.kfa.org/products/the-ending-of-time-new-edition
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Q7CJkF7Spji2iAbV_mYEyYHnKWobzo6N
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
00:56 Upcoming Cybersecurity Event: CruiseCon
01:41 Welcoming Back Richard Thieme
02:06 Reflecting on Past Discussions
02:59 The Necessity for Thinking Like a Hacker
03:10 Exploring Richard Thieme's Books
08:25 Understanding AI and Its Implications
18:28 Soft Power and Global Influence
24:01 The Power of Fiction in Revealing Truth
24:37 Ethical Frameworks Post 9/11
26:12 The Role of Empathy in Intelligence Work
26:37 The Blurring Line Between Fact and Fiction
29:52 The Isolation of Intelligence Work
31:18 The Interconnectedness of Everything
33:36 Exploring Remote Viewing and Consciousness
36:50 The Rise of AI and Ethical Considerations
39:43 The Evolution of Technology and Society
45:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Nov 25, 2024 • 45min
#208 - Insider Threat (with Shawnee Delaney)
This podcast episode of CISO Tradecraft features Shawnee Delaney, an insider threat expert, discussing insider threats in cybersecurity. Delaney, whose background includes espionage, explains how understanding human motivation and vulnerabilities is crucial for identifying and mitigating insider threats. The conversation highlights the importance of organizational culture, employee well-being, and proactive measures like employee lifecycle management and psychological testing in preventing such threats. Practical advice is offered for leaders to foster a supportive and communicative work environment to detect potential threats early. Finally, methods for creating effective insider threat programs and addressing cultural issues are explored.
Shawnee Delaney's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnee-delaney/
Vaillance Group - https://www.vaillancegroup.com/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xJiEMDL8CjNwwfBSvNHfnhfsrVgOMuk0
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Insider Threat
00:26 Guest Introduction: Shawnee Delaney
00:58 CruiseCon 2025 Announcement
01:33 Shawnee's Career Journey
02:18 Understanding Espionage
03:43 Motivations Behind Espionage
07:46 Indicators of Insider Threat
10:48 Building a Positive Organizational Culture
18:21 Implementing an Insider Threat Program
21:05 Psychological Testing in Hiring
23:26 Assessing Organizational Culture
25:34 Core Values in the Navy and Marine Corps
26:16 A Commanding Officer's Story
28:32 Identifying Insider Threats
32:01 The Impact of Job Uncertainty
36:50 Gamifying Security Incentives
39:12 Building a Strong Security Culture
42:05 Final Thoughts and Recommendations


