ISC2LA Beyond the Certificate

ISC2LA Beyond the Certificate
Podcast Description
Security certificates are a great way to show you know your stuff, but now what? You want to get into the field, and it seems impossible at times to even get to the prescreening phase of an interview when you've never had a security role you're chasing. In this podcast, local professionals in the industry spill all to the tips and shortcuts they've used in securing their roles.
https://isc2la.org/joinus
The ISC2 Los Angeles chapter wants to see you succeed as the security professional you were meant to be.
Here's a short list of our topics initially:
*Getting your foot in the door: Strategies for breaking into the cybersecurity field.
*Landing interviews: Tips and techniques for successful interviewing.
*Preparation and resources: What newcomers need to stand out.
*Community engagement: The value of being an active member of ISC2 LA.
*Understanding the job market: Types of roles available and typical experience levels required.
*Career path development: Navigating growth and advancement in cybersecurity.
*Learning from diverse journeys: Insights from professionals who entered cybersecurity from various backgrounds.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Content centers around strategies for entering the cybersecurity field with themes like breaking into cybersecurity roles, effective interviewing techniques, essential resources for newcomers, the value of community engagement, and career advancement in the cybersecurity landscape with specific episodes like 'My First Year in Cyber' discussing personal experiences and insights.

Security certificates are a great way to show you know your stuff, but now what? You want to get into the field, and it seems impossible at times to even get to the prescreening phase of an interview when you’ve never had a security role you’re chasing. In this podcast, local professionals in the industry spill all to the tips and shortcuts they’ve used in securing their roles.
https://isc2la.org/joinus
The ISC2 Los Angeles chapter wants to see you succeed as the security professional you were meant to be.
Here’s a short list of our topics initially:
*Getting your foot in the door: Strategies for breaking into the cybersecurity field.
*Landing interviews: Tips and techniques for successful interviewing.
*Preparation and resources: What newcomers need to stand out.
*Community engagement: The value of being an active member of ISC2 LA.
*Understanding the job market: Types of roles available and typical experience levels required.
*Career path development: Navigating growth and advancement in cybersecurity.
*Learning from diverse journeys: Insights from professionals who entered cybersecurity from various backgrounds.
Keywords: cybersecurity, community, learning, mentorship, networking, communication, compassion, authenticity, career advice, challenges
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Steve Weltman and David Lin explore the journey of entering the cybersecurity field, sharing personal experiences, challenges, and the importance of community support. David reflects on his first year in cybersecurity, the surprises he faced, and how he learned to navigate the complexities of the field. They discuss the significance of building a network, the role of compassion in professional relationships, and the value of mentorship. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being authentic and the need for continuous learning in a rapidly evolving industry. (Recorded Jun 02 2025)
Takeaways
- The first year in cybersecurity can be full of surprises.
- Community support is crucial for success in cybersecurity.
- Learning from mistakes is a vital part of growth.
- Building a network of resources is essential.
- Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings.
- Compassion towards oneself is important during challenging times.
- Collecting mentors can provide valuable guidance.
- Authenticity fosters better professional relationships.
- Being a sponge helps in absorbing knowledge and experiences.
- It’s okay not to know everything; seek help when needed.
Titles
Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape: Insights from David Lin
Lessons from the First Year in Cybersecurity
Sound bites
- “Be your authentic self at work.”
- “Be a sponge in your first role.”
- “It’s okay to take a break.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Journeys
01:17 First Year Surprises in Cybersecurity
04:09 The Importance of Community and Support
07:43 Building a Bag of Tricks for Success
09:55 Learning from Experience and Resources
15:00 Networking and Community Engagement
17:57 Lessons Learned from Painful Experiences
18:43 Navigating Communication Mistakes
21:42 The Importance of Perspective in Decision Making
24:43 Building Authentic Relationships in the Workplace
29:31 Empowering Teams Through Compassion and Authenticity
32:38 Advice for Newcomers in Cybersecurity
35:37 Finding Motivation During Challenging Times

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