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 an inspiring journey of transformation, dedication, and growth.
The highlight of this week’s episode is Alena, who transformed her career from research and teaching to defending against cyber threats at State Farm. Her path demonstrates what is possible when you commit to growth and lean into new challenges with curiosity.
This episode dives deeply into how to build technical capabilities from a non-traditional background, the value of continuous improvement, and the importance of fostering the growth of others through mentorship. Whether you are considering a shift into cybersecurity or seeking to elevate your current journey, this episode is a guide for moving forward with clarity and resilience.
Instagram: /astroinfosec
LinkedIn: /astroinfosec
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