The Identity Heroes
The Identity Heroes
Podcast Description
The Identity Heroes brings real stories from the frontlines of identity to life. Hear from architects, CISOs, and practitioners as they share authentic insights and tactical lessons. Curious, smart, and a little rebellious, this series celebrates the people solving today’s toughest identity challenges. Because no one goes to school for IAM.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on essential topics within identity and access management, featuring episodes that explore the non-linear paths of industry professionals, practical lessons learned from setbacks, and the interplay between technology and leadership, exemplified by discussions on the future of AI in IAM, networking dynamics, and the multifaceted nature of identity careers.
The Identity Heroes brings real stories from the frontlines of identity to life. Hear from architects, CISOs, and practitioners as they share authentic insights and tactical lessons. Curious, smart, and a little rebellious, this series celebrates the people solving today’s toughest identity challenges. Because no one goes to school for IAM.
In this episode of The Identity Heroes, Clint Hardison — AVP of Identity & Access Management at Navy Federal — shares his non-linear journey from international furniture sales to IAM leadership.
Clint reflects on the turning points that shaped his career, from humbling resets to building authentication systems for millions of members. He opens up about the role of listening, vulnerability, and trust in leadership — and why his team lives by the motto “How can we help?”
🎯 This conversation dives into:
- Why IAM careers don’t follow a straight line — and why that’s a good thing
- How communication and listening (WAIT: “Why Am I Talking?”) build stronger leaders
- Why vulnerability creates trust and stronger team culture
- The importance of investing in training and people development
- How to position identity so it resonates across the business
✨ Key Themes & Takeaways
Careers in identity don’t follow straight lines — and that’s a strength
Listening and communication are underrated leadership superpowers
Vulnerability builds trust and team culture
Investing in training pays off for individuals and organizations
Identity leaders must translate complexity into business value
Simple mottos like “How can we help?” transform teams
Whether you’re new to IAM or leading a global team, Clint’s story proves that growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone.
🔗 Explore more Identity Heroes:https://www.strata.io/identityheroes
🎙️ The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest and do not represent the opinions of their employer or family.
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