Voices of the Vigilant podcast:
humanizing cybersecurity
with candid tales from cyberspace and beyond
About the Voices of the Vigilant podcast
Voices of the Vigilant builds and shares knowledge by engaging with diverse voices and perspectives from within the cybersecurity industry.
Episodes are released once a month. You can find the full episode catalog below and across all major podcast platforms.
Also be sure to check out the show in video format - with closed captioning - on YouTube.
Voices of the Vigilant episode catalog
Voices of the Vigilant EP09 | The Mentor’s Map: Empowering Pathways to Cyber
This episode features Chris Lemmon, fDirector of Security Engineering at Secure Yeti and educator at City Colleges of Chicago.
Chris shares how her unconventional journey—from nanny to cybersecurity leader, gives her a fresh perspective on problem-solving and people management. She believes diversity is essential to strong security teams: “What we need is that Swiss cheese model—different lived experiences covering security from all angles.”
Her grant-funded Cybersecurity Career Accelerator removes barriers for students, blending technical training with hands-on competitions. Beyond the classroom, her “Backpacks for Good” initiative turns unused conference swag into care packages for Chicago’s homeless—showing how tech can drive change both in careers and communities.
Voices of the Vigilant EP08 | The Grid Guardian: Stength through The Circle
This episode features Dd Budiharto, founder of Cyber Point Advisory, LLC, a leader in fractional CISO firm that provides cyber security advisory services to startup, emerging, and global organizations.
Dd shares how her journey—from arriving in the U.S. without English and starting as a janitor to advising CEOs before meetings with President Obama—shaped her belief that cybersecurity should be accessible to all. Her story underscores the value of reinvention, balance, and lifelong learning, showing that true impact comes from adaptability at every stage of life and career.
Voices of the Vigilant EP07 | The Risk Whisperer’s Guide to Cyber Resilience
This episode features Mea Clift, Principal Executive Advisor for Cyber Risk Engineering at Liberty Mutual.
Mea shares how understanding both business and technical perspectives enhances clarity in discussions around cybersecurity. Her "big picture" approach helps bridge gaps between teams, making security strategy more accessible to diverse stakeholders.
Voices of the Vigilant EP06 | The Relentless Rise: Smashing Cybersecurity's Status Quo
This episode features Mariana Padilla of HACKERverse.
Ever clicked that dreaded "Talk to Sales" button on a cybersecurity vendor's website and immediately regretted it? You're not alone. Whether you're a security professional tired of endless vendor calls or a technologist interested in practical applications of AI, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of cybersecurity sales and the power of mission-driven entrepreneurship.
The human side of tech
As a gifted speaker and connector, Jess is super excited to share this project with you! Each episode features a candid conversation with folks in the infosec space on a specific topic and is designed to educate and inspire you to take action on your own terms.
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Apply to be a guest
If you are interested in being a guest on the Voices of the Vigilant podcast, please click here to complete the application form and Jess will be in touch if it’s a good fit!