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 amazing journey of perseverance, determination, and success.
The highlight of this week’s episode is a former varsity football player who earned one of LSU’s most difficult degrees in computer science. Lloyd Powell, who is currently a NASA cybersecurity leader and the creative force behind the @pietales podcast, shares the secrets of thriving under duress and discovering your own rhythm for concentration.
This episode dives deeply into what it takes to succeed in high-stakes situations, covering everything from striking a balance between ambition and rest to the strength of steadfast support networks. This episode offers priceless lessons regardless of whether you’re a student-athlete, aspiring professional, or just someone aiming for greatness. Don’t pass up this opportunity to learn how to excel in your career and in life!
Instagram: / astroinfosec
LinkedIn: / astroinfosec
Disclaimer
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