K.O.’s Launchpad: An Infosec Podcast
K.O.’s Launchpad: An Infosec Podcast
Podcast Description
I started out wrapping burritos at Chipotle, dreaming of something bigger but not quite sure where to go. Over time, that drive to learn and grow led me into cybersecurity—an industry where the stakes are high and the stories are endlessly fascinating. K.O.’s Launchpad is my way of opening the door for anyone curious about how to break in, level up, and find purpose in a field that’s shaping our digital future.
In every episode, we’ll chat with experts, share practical strategies, and explore the gritty realities (and victories) that come with protecting data, people, and organizations in a tech-driven world. This podcast is built around real talk: the ups, the downs, and the moments when you know you’re onto something big. I believe that if you have the heart to hustle, no challenge is too big—cybersecurity included. Whether you’re aiming to get your first security gig, sharpen your offensive or defensive skills, master GRC, or lead with confidence, you’ll find the insights and inspiration here. Join me each week as we tackle the front lines of cyber and give you a roadmap to success.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes such as cybersecurity career paths, mentorship, and education within the industry. Examples of episodes include interviews with professionals like Simeon Kakpovi discussing inclusivity in cybersecurity through the KC7 Foundation and Jibby Saetang sharing his unconventional journey from watchmaking to a cybersecurity role, highlighting the multifaceted routes into the field.
I started out wrapping burritos at Chipotle, dreaming of something bigger but not quite sure where to go. Over time, that drive to learn and grow led me into cybersecurity—an industry where the stakes are high and the stories are endlessly fascinating. K.O.’s Launchpad is my way of opening the door for anyone curious about how to break in, level up, and find purpose in a field that’s shaping our digital future.
In every episode, we’ll chat with experts, share practical strategies, and explore the gritty realities (and victories) that come with protecting data, people, and organizations in a tech-driven world. This podcast is built around real talk: the ups, the downs, and the moments when you know you’re onto something big. I believe that if you have the heart to hustle, no challenge is too big—cybersecurity included. Whether you’re aiming to get your first security gig, sharpen your offensive or defensive skills, master GRC, or lead with confidence, you’ll find the insights and inspiration here. Join me each week as we tackle the front lines of cyber and give you a roadmap to success.
In this episode of K.O.’s Launchpad, we share the story of a professional who turned ambition into achievement.
Kyle Mendoza serves today as a Senior Threat Intelligence Analyst at CrowdStrike, but his journey began with an intentional plan: study relentlessly, build the right network, and create a pathway into one of cybersecurity’s most selective domains. His approach reveals what’s truly required to break through.
This episode offers a clear look into the discipline and strategies behind entering threat intelligence, from sharpening technical expertise to finding mentors and peers who can accelerate growth. Kyle’s journey is an inspiration for anyone aiming to secure their place in cybersecurity.
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