Navigating the Challenges of Tech Layoffs and Career Growth with Erin Santamaria

In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast, our host catches up with Erin Santamaria, a seasoned recruiter with a diverse background in talent acquisition. Erin shares her journey from HR generalist at MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company to a business intelligence recruiter at Wayfair, her time at Meta, and her current role at the Royal Bank of Canada. She delves into the challenges she faced following a layoff from Meta, offering crucial advice on how to stay mentally strong and adaptable in a tough job market.

Erin also discusses her proactive approach to career development, including leveraging networks, joining support groups like 'Never Search Alone,' and the importance of tailoring resumes for recruitment success. Whether you're a job seeker facing similar hurdles or someone interested in the recruitment landscape, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:53 Erin's Career Journey

03:19 Navigating Layoffs and Career Challenges

05:26 Bouncing Back and Finding New Opportunities

12:04 Networking and Support Groups

18:09 Insights from Working at Meta

21:33 Orientation at Menlo Park

22:39 Understanding Engineering Roles

23:36 Leveraging Networks and Clubhouse

25:13 The Importance of Networking

30:32 Meditation and Mental Health

32:23 Current Role at Royal Bank of Canada

34:07 Recruitment Process Insights

42:33 Book Recommendations for Self-Development

Erin suggested:

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Don't Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyena

From US Army to Cybersecurity CTO: Lloyd Sanders' Journey and Insights

In this episode of the Cybersecurity Recruiter Podcast, we welcome Lloyd Sanders, a seasoned cybersecurity professional who transitioned from a distinguished career in the US Army to becoming a CTO in the commercial tech space.

Lloyd shares his unique journey, discussing his extensive military background, his transition into the cybersecurity world, and the dynamic growth he's experienced along the way. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of continuous learning, the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, the critical role of communication, and strategic thinking in both military and civilian sectors.

Lloyd also provides valuable advice for those looking to advance their careers and emphasizes the significance of adaptability, especially with the rapid advancements in AI and technology. Tune in to gain insights from Lloyd's extensive experience and learn about the challenges and triumphs of leading in the cybersecurity industry.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:14 Swearing in Cyber Security

00:59 Lloyd Sanders' Career Journey

03:09 Transition from Army to Civilian Life

03:38 Day in the Life of a CTO

07:31 Importance of Communication Skills

16:42 Leadership and Management Insights

21:49 Balancing Work and Personal Life

25:15 Building Resilience and Personal Brand

28:19 Transitioning from Physical to Cerebral

28:50 Embracing Technology in the Army

29:14 From Army to CTO

30:13 The Importance of Adaptability

32:15 AI and Its Implications

34:08 The Threat of Deepfakes

43:53 Hiring and Learning in Cybersecurity

49:54 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Lloyd suggested: Message to Garcia by Elbert Green Hubbard

Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don't by Jim C. Collins

Transitioning from Military to Cybersecurity Entrepreneur: Insights with Mike Crandall

In this episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast, host Thomas interviews Mike Crandall, a cybersecurity expert and entrepreneur with a multifaceted career journey. Mike shares his extensive background, starting from his service in the U.S. Air Force to becoming the CEO of Digital Beachhead. The discussion delves into the importance of community engagement, personal branding, and strategic growth in the cybersecurity field. Mike emphasizes the value of understanding the fundamentals, adaptability, mentorship, and maintaining a forward-looking mindset.

Whether you're transitioning from the military, a job seeker, or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies for success in the cybersecurity landscape.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:48 Mike Crandall's Career Journey

02:38 Transitioning from Military to Business

03:26 Starting and Growing a Business

10:49 The Importance of Community Engagement

13:58 Building Authority and Networking

18:29 Local Community Involvement and Charity Work

19:39 Recruitment Challenges and Strategies

20:08 The Power of Networking at Non-Cyber Conferences

22:06 Building Trust and Persistence

23:27 Resilience in Tough Times

26:34 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Careers

31:07 Key Traits of Top Security Professionals

33:02 The Importance of Fundamentals and Continuous Learning

36:16 Mentorship and Partnership in Business

38:09 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

Mike recommended: Bill O’Reilly Series

The Cyber Security Recruiter talks to Jason Frank, Chief Operations Manager, SpecterOps

Jason recommends:

Shine by Gina Wigman

Principles by Ray Dalio Bridgewater and Associates.

Drive by Dan Pink

The Cyber Security Recruiter talks to Kyle Espinoza, Technical Recruiter, Disruptive Solutions

Kyle suggested: Emotional Intelligence Habits by Travis Bradberry

The Cyber Security Recruiter talks to Lori Brumm, Senior Manager, SimSpace

Lori suggested:

How the Word Is Passed by Clint Smith

Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? by Beverly Daniel Tatum

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Norman suggested:

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

10 Books of Myers-Briggs

CNBC Channel

The Cyber Security Recruiter talks to Tina Conn, Director of GTM Recruiting - NAM, Palo Alto Networks

Tina talks about: Who: The A Method for Hiring by Geoff Smart and Randy Street

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

The Cyber Security Recruiter talks to Kyle Lai, President & CISO, KLC Consulting

Kyle suggested:  Playbook for CMMC Assessors available in  klcconsulting.net

The Cyber Security Recruiter talks to Luke McOmie, VP Offensive Security, Ideal Integrations

Cyber Security Insights with Luke McComie: Join us for an enlightening episode of the Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast where we are joined by Luke McComie, Vice President of Offensive Security at Blue Bastion.

Luke shares his extensive journey in the cybersecurity domain, discussing the explosive growth and success of his company, the significance of relationship-driven approaches, and the integral role of communication skills in the industry. Dive into Luke's career timeline, his experiences living off-grid in Colorado, his insights on modern cybersecurity practices, and the importance of mentorship and continuous learning. Learn about the fundamentals of building a resilient security program, the necessity of honest communication in sales, and tips for navigating career challenges.