Security Clearance Insecurity

What happens when a former true crime reporter, a national security storyteller, and a clearance industry expert sit down to talk espionage, insider threats, terrorism, and the cases that changed history?

In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer welcomes Secret Squirrel Files hosts Phoebe Wells and Katie Helbling, ClearanceJobs new true crime, national security podcast. They discuss the inspiration behind their growing podcast series and why some of the most compelling national security lessons come from real-world cases.

The conversation explores how true crime storytelling can help security professionals better understand insider threats, espionage, extremism, intelligence failures, and the policies designed to prevent them. From the Oklahoma City bombing and Operation Bojinka to Aldrich Ames and unsolved military mysteries, the hosts share how these stories provide both historical context and practical lessons for today's cleared workforce.

Plus, the team discusses the unique format behind Secret Squirrel Files, the origins of the show's name, and why storytelling remains one of the most effective ways to educate and engage the national security community.

In the second half of the episode, security clearance attorney John Berry joins Lindy to discuss an often-overlooked clearance topic: neurocognitive disorders and mental health. The conversation explores how conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and other psychological disorders are evaluated in the clearance process, the importance of self-reporting and treatment, and how government attitudes toward mental health have evolved over the past two decades. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Facility Security Officers (FSOs) are at the center of some of the biggest changes happening across the national security workforce—and many are feeling the strain.

In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, Lindy Kyzer of ClearanceJobs sits down with Ike Rivers, NISPAC representative and advisory board member for TechnoMile Security Information Management, to discuss findings from the latest State of the Facility Security Officer Survey. Together, they explore why FSOs are being asked to wear more hats than ever before and what that means for security programs across the Defense Industrial Base.

The conversation covers some of the industry's most persistent challenges, including the ongoing confusion surrounding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), the modernization gap created by reliance on spreadsheets and manual processes, and why clearance reciprocity remains a major obstacle despite years of reform efforts. Ike also shares his perspective on Trusted Workforce 2.0, NBIS implementation, and the growing disconnect between policy goals and day-to-day operational realities.

In the second segment, federal employment attorney Elisabeth Baker-Pham offers practical advice for one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of the clearance process: completing the SF-86. From investigating yourself before you begin to avoiding vague answers and using comment sections effectively, she explains how applicants can avoid common mistakes that lead to delays and complications.

Whether you're an FSO, security professional, clearance holder, or applicant navigating the vetting process, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges shaping the future of personnel security.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Average compensation for cleared professionals has hit a record high of $126,125 — but what's driving that number, and what does it mean for you? ClearanceJobs Content Director Jill Hamilton breaks down the 2026 Compensation Report, covering why pay jumped 6% year over year, which clearance levels and certifications move the needle most, and how location, education, and experience combine into what she calls the "triple threat" for top earners.

Download the full report here.

Then, security clearance attorney John Berry joins to discuss one of the harshest realities facing federal employees with clearance issues: the indefinite suspension without pay, why the Merit Systems Protection Board offers little relief, and what your best options actually are when the ground shifts beneath you.

Whether you're heading into a performance review, considering a move from federal to private sector, or just trying to stay ahead in an uncertain market, this episode gives you the data and the legal reality you need to navigate it.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Jacob Centeno, founder of Poor Bear Stories, to explore the power of storytelling within the national security community. From his personal journey as a Gold Star family member to building a mission-driven media company, Centeno shares how authenticity, vulnerability, and lived experience shape the stories he tells.

The conversation dives into the unique connection between storytelling and service—how shared experiences can break down barriers, build trust, and reveal the human side of intelligence and special operations communities. Centeno also reflects on the evolving landscape of content creation, the tension between AI-generated media and handcrafted storytelling, and why depth and meaning still matter in a world flooded with content.

Plus, the episode touches on the emotional impact of creative work, the importance of community at events like ClearanceJobs Connect, and how purpose-driven storytelling can extend the life and impact of mission-focused moments.

Whether you're in national security, media, or simply passionate about meaningful storytelling, this episode offers insight into how stories connect us—and why they matter more than ever.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What makes the GEOINT Symposium 2026 a must-attend event for national security professionals? In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Jim McCool to break it down.

From his experience at organizations like the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Central Intelligence Agency, and the U.S. Air Force, McCool shares why GEOINT remains at the center of modern intelligence—and how it’s evolving fast.

They dive into the role of tradecraft in an AI-driven world, the growing importance of data and critical thinking skills, and how professionals at every stage can get the most out of the symposium. Whether you're navigating the clearance process, exploring career opportunities, or trying to understand how emerging tech is reshaping intelligence work, this conversation offers practical insights and forward-looking perspective.

Plus: tips for first-time attendees, what skills are in demand, and why networking at GEOINT can shape your career long after the event ends.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What makes a great boss—and why do so many get it wrong?

In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, Lindy Kyzer sits down with former CIA Chief of HR Mike Mears to unpack the real driver behind employee engagement, retention, and performance: certainty at the local level.

Drawing on decades of experience inside the intelligence community—and insights from his book Certainty—Mears explains why employees don’t leave missions, they leave managers. He breaks down how the brain responds to uncertainty, why psychological safety is critical in high-stakes environments, and how small leadership habits can dramatically improve team performance.

From fixing broken clearance processes to building trust in ambiguous environments, this conversation offers practical tools for leaders across government and industry.

Plus: what cleared professionals should know about insider risk, disengagement, and why “soft skills” may be the most critical national security asset.

If you lead people—or want to—this is a must-listen.

Purchase Certainty: www.certaintyleadershipbook.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the uniform comes off—or your federal service ends—and the identity that once defined you suddenly shifts?

In this episode, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Lisa Parmeter, Executive Director of Merging Vets & Players (MVP), to explore the often-overlooked challenges of transition for veterans, active duty service members, and former professional athletes.

From the loss of identity and purpose to the need for intensity, structure, and community, this conversation dives into what it really takes to rebuild after high-performance careers. Parmeter shares how MVP helps individuals rediscover meaning through peer support, whole-health approaches, and mission-driven community.

The discussion also tackles mental health stigma, the importance of vulnerability in leadership, and the real risks of isolation—along with practical ways to navigate change, build resilience, and find your next chapter.

Plus, in the second segment, security clearance attorney John Berry joins Lindy to break down one of the most common clearance pitfalls: misuse of IT systems. From downloading unauthorized software to AI-related risks and repeat violations, they unpack what can jeopardize your clearance—and how to avoid it.

Whether you’re transitioning careers, supporting someone who is, or navigating the evolving clearance landscape, this episode offers critical insights you won’t want to miss.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The security industry is evolving far beyond its traditional image of guards, guns, and gates. Today, it sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, federal policy, and critical infrastructure protection.

In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, Lindy Kyzer speaks with Don Erickson, CEO of the Security Industry Association (SIA), about how emerging technologies are transforming the physical security landscape. From AI-enabled surveillance systems to cybersecurity integration and supply chain protections, the industry is playing a growing role in national security.

They also discuss how SIA works with federal policymakers to promote responsible innovation, the challenges of navigating evolving AI regulations, and why workforce development is critical as the industry competes for talent.

Plus, the conversation explores career pathways into the security industry—including opportunities for veterans, transitioning federal employees, and professionals with skills in engineering, cybersecurity, project management, and analytics.

In the second segment, security clearance attorney Elisabeth Baker-Pham joins Lindy to discuss a growing trend: people turning to AI tools for legal guidance on clearance issues—and why relying on AI instead of a qualified attorney can create serious risks.

Topics discussed:

• The growing role of AI in physical security
• Ethical frameworks for surveillance technologies
• Workforce development and new security career paths
• Challenges of AI policy and regulatory patchworks
• Why AI is not your security clearance lawyer

If you work in national security, technology, or the broader security ecosystem, this episode offers insight into where the industry—and its workforce—is heading next.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Career disruption and side hustles are increasingly common — but how do they impact your security clearance?

In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, Lindy Kyzer of ClearanceJobs sits down with federal career coach and FedUpward host Love Rutledge to discuss navigating unexpected federal career pivots, translating government experience for the private sector, and the emotional impact of leaving civil service.

They also share transition resources for federal employees, including:

• Volcker Alliance — https://www.volckeralliance.org
• Partnership for Public Service — https://ourpublicservice.org
• FormerGov — https://www.formergov.com
• FedUpward Podcast — https://www.fedupwardcoaching.com/podcast

Later, security clearance attorney John Berry joins the show to break down how job hopping, gig work, outside employment, tax issues, and timecard fraud can raise clearance concerns — and what to do to stay compliant.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal government can no longer treat artificial intelligence as optional—but what does true AI readiness actually look like?

On this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Jennifer Ewbank, former Deputy Director of the CIA for Digital Innovation, to unpack how AI is reshaping national security missions, workforce expectations, and accountability across government.

Rather than focusing on tools or pilot programs, Ewbank makes the case for a mission-first approach to AI—one that prioritizes readiness, governance, and human judgment. The conversation explores why digital literacy must become foundational for the entire federal workforce, how AI and cybersecurity skills are increasingly intertwined, and why uniquely human skills like critical thinking, ethics, and adaptability matter more than ever.

They also dive into the realities holding agencies back—from messy data environments and compliance-driven culture to slow hiring pipelines and outdated talent systems—and why the greatest risk to government may be standing still while technology accelerates.

Whether you’re a clearance holder, hiring leader, policymaker, or technologist, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at what it will take to responsibly scale AI across federal missions—without losing accountability, transparency, or trust.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.