Have you ever achieved a major goal and still felt like something was missing?

In this episode of the Women in Security & Privacy Podcast, Nicole sits down with CIO and CSO Dr. Irene Thong to discuss her unconventional journey from receptionist to executive leadership, the power of embracing change, and what happens when your professional success no longer feels fully aligned with who you are.

Together, they explore the realities of leadership, technology, identity, and the often-overlooked transition periods that shape our personal and professional growth.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How Irene went from aspiring hacker to CIO and CSO

• Why the best leaders focus on people before technology

• The danger of tying your identity to your job title

• How to navigate career transitions and uncertainty

• Why clarity comes from reflection, not constant achievement

• The importance of embracing the "chapter in between"

Sometimes the most important growth happens between where you've been and where you're going next. Whether you're navigating a career change, leadership transition, or personal crossroads, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to trust your journey.

Check out Dr. Irene Thong's book, The Chapter In Between: Leadership, Identity, and the Space Between What Was and What Comes Next, here on Amazon.