Episode 4: Zero Trust – Zero Trust in Practice with Mark Simos

Host: Dr. Kenneth Johnson

Guest: Mark Simos, Lead Cybersecurity Architect, Microsoft

Duration: ~20 minutes

Zero Trust, Cybersecurity, Identity Management, AI, Security Architecture, Collaboration, Trust Verification, Modern Security Strategies

In this episode of Secured with Dr. KJ, Kenneth Johnson and Mark Simos break down the reality of Zero Trust—moving beyond buzzwords into actionable strategies. They explore why traditional perimeter-based security no longer works, and how identity, verification, and AI are reshaping the way we think about trust in cybersecurity.

Mark shares insights on how organizations can align their teams, embrace a culture of shared responsibility, and make security a business enabler—not a blocker. The conversation also touches on how AI is accelerating complex security tasks, helping teams stay ahead of evolving threats.

• Why Zero Trust is more than a framework—it’s a mindset shift
• The critical role identity plays in modern security
• How AI supports and strengthens Zero Trust strategies
• The cost of implicit trust and the value of explicit verification
• Why collaboration and communication are essential to success

• Zero Trust removes the false assumption of a secure perimeter.
• Verification of identity is essential in modern security.
• Trust is costly; explicit verification is necessary.
• Identity management is crucial for Zero Trust success.
• AI plays a symbiotic role in enhancing security.
• Security must be integrated into business processes.
• Every asset and user must have a defined identity.
• Collaboration across teams is vital for security effectiveness.
• Security professionals should act as enablers for other teams.
• Open communication fosters a successful Zero Trust implementation.

• “AI accelerates complex security tasks.”
• “Identity is the new security perimeter.”
• “Security is part of everyone’s job.”

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