In this powerful episode, host David Redekop sits down with Joshua Domagalski, Chief Information Security Officer and former offensive operator, to explore the real complexities of modern cyber defense.

Joshua opens up about his journey from the military to cybersecurity leadership, the shift from attacking systems to protecting them, and why defending is far more challenging than breaking in.

This conversation goes far beyond tools and tactics, it uncovers the human, strategic, and geopolitical layers that shape cybersecurity today.

You’ll learn about:

• Why offensive skills are essential for strong defense
• The truth about AI adoption in security operations
• How insider threats actually work
• Ransomware strategy (not just response)
• Why experience matters more than certifications
• The real job of a CISO in 2025
• The importance of humility, discipline, and continuous learning
• How geopolitics fuels cyber conflict
• Why most breaches originate from human behavior

If you're a SOC analyst, aspiring CISO, blue team operator, or cybersecurity enthusiast — this episode will reshape how you see the defender’s role.

Timestamps -

00:00 Introduction and Early Interests

01:00 Welcome to The Defender's Log

01:16 Joshua Domagalski's Journey into Cybersecurity

02:38 Challenges in Cyber Defense

04:19 The Importance of Offensive Skills for Defense

05:08 Balancing Proactive and Reactive Defense

06:42 AI Adoption and Cybersecurity

09:46 The Role of Experience vs. Certification

11:39 Joshua's Path to Becoming a CISO

14:16 Human Elements in Cybersecurity

22:09 Strategies for Insider Threats and Ransomware

36:17 Geopolitical Challenges in Cybersecurity

39:40 Final Thoughts and Advice

40:35 Conclusion and Call to Action

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