Security Clearance Careers Podcast

What makes the GEOINT Symposium 2026 a must-attend event for national security professionals? Lindy 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new report from veteran empowering organizations Hire Heroes USA and Redeployable finds that as artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes how work is done, veterans are especially well positioned for many of the roles showing the strongest long-term growth, stability and opportunity. Veterans are not only employable — they are well aligned with roles that continue to require human judgment, leadership and adaptability. Titled, “The AI Career Shift: Where Veterans Should Focus in 2026,” the report identifies clear patterns in where veterans experience the strongest long-term satisfaction, retention and career stability. Hire Heroes, Redeployable, and a client of Hire Heroes joins the conversation to discuss the career sweet spots that veterans should target. Tune in next week to hear part 2 of this important conversation! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI is moving fast—but are you moving with it? In this episode of ClearedCast, we sit down with Ryan Carpenter and Karina Barao from the Special Competitive Studies Project to break down what’s different about this year’s AI + Expo—and why it matters for national security professionals. From drone racing arenas and robot demos to hands-on workshops designed to build real AI skills, the expo is shifting from conversation to action. But beyond the tech, this episode tackles something deeper: the fear, hesitation, and misconceptions surrounding AI adoption—especially in cleared spaces. If you’ve ever felt like AI is happening to you instead of for you, this conversation reframes that narrative. With insights on workforce readiness, education, and the role of individual agency in shaping the future, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the intersection of AI, defense, and career growth. Plus: why one of the largest gatherings of government, industry, and academic leaders is completely free—and what that says about the future of innovation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s a persistent narrative about federal employees: slow-moving, overly bureaucratic, and disconnected from urgency. But step inside the reality of government leadership—especially for women navigating high-stakes, mission-driven roles—and a very different picture emerges. In a recent conversation featuring federal workplace expert Mika Cross and executive coach and former Senior Executive Service leader Love Rutledge, we aim to break the bureaucracy, and explored what it truly means to lead, serve, and sustain a career in government today. The discussion uncovered powerful insights about leadership, burnout, and the misconceptions that continue to shape public perception. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when government, industry, academia, startups, and cleared talent all come together in one place? In this episode of ClearedCast, Phoebe Wells sits down with Tyler Johnson and Carlos Romero of eMerge Americas to talk about why this year’s conference matters for national security professionals. They break down how eMerge has evolved into a major hub for technology, policy, and public-private collaboration, and why cleared professionals, veterans, and innovation-minded leaders should be paying attention. From dual-use technology and workforce development to live Army pitch competitions, hackathons, venture capital, and veteran-focused programming, this conversation explores how emerging tech is moving from idea to mission impact. If you work in national security, hold a clearance, or want to better understand where AI, defense innovation, and talent strategy are headed next, this episode offers a strong preview of the conversations shaping that future. Register now, and we'll see you in Miami. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes a great boss—and why do so many get it wrong? In this episode, Lindy 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The modern battlefield isn’t confined to war zones overseas, it’s evolving rapidly along the U.S. border. Criminal organizations like the Juarez and Sinaloa cartels are leveraging commercial technology, decentralized networks, and real-time adaptability in ways that challenge traditional intelligence models. At the center of this shift is a growing gap between how threats evolve and how intelligence systems respond. Former military intelligence specialist, Stefano Ritondale, and current the Chief Intelligence Officer at Artorias joins the podcast to provide insights on UAV threats, OSINT, and strategic implications for the U.S. from a national security perspective. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For decades, the cleared workforce followed a fairly predictable path: long tenures, stable programs, and careers built within a single agency or contractor. But today, cleared professionals are moving faster between roles, contracts, and even employment models. Some are chasing better pay, others are seeking flexibility, and many are responding to the realities of contract-driven work. To help unpack what this shift means for both employees and employers, I’m joined by John Berry, security clearance attorney with Berry & Berry and someone who has had a front-row seat to cleared hiring trends for years. In this conversation, we’ll talk about why job hopping has become more common, how the idea of “gig work” is showing up even in highly regulated cleared environments, and what recruiters, hiring managers, and cleared professionals should be thinking about as career mobility accelerates. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Across the cleared workforce in early 2026, a consistent picture is coming into focus: hiring hasn’t stopped, investigations are picking back up, and modernization efforts are accelerating. But the system still feels uneven for many navigating it. Recent discussions across the clearance community, combined with new policy updates from DCSA, suggest a process in transition, one that is improving in some ways while remaining frustratingly opaque in others. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when the uniform comes off—or your federal service ends—and the identity that once defined you suddenly shifts? In this episode of Security Clearance and Security, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Lisa Parmeter, Executive Director of Merging Vets and 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transitioning out of the military is often framed as a career decision — finding the next job, updating a resume, or navigating the cleared workforce. But for many service members and their families, it’s much more than that. It’s an identity shift, a lifestyle change, and a redefining of purpose. In this episode of the Security Clearance Careers Podcast, we had the opportunity to sit down with Herb and Corrie Thompson for a candid and deeply insightful conversation about what transition really looks like. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the most common questions we hear from job seekers is: How do you get your first security clearance if you don’t already have one? It can feel like the ultimate catch-22. Many roles require a clearance, but you need an employer to sponsor you before you can get one. So today we’re digging into exactly how that works and how candidates can actually convince a company to take that step. Joining Katie Helbling is Jillian Hamilton, Content Director at ClearanceJobs and someone who has spent years covering the defense workforce and helping candidates navigate the cleared job market. She’s also written extensively about companies willing to sponsor security clearances and what job seekers should know before applying. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The security industry is evolving rapidly — and it’s no longer just about guards, gates, and access badges. In this episode, Lindy Kyzer speaks with Don Erickson, CEO of the Security Industry Association (SIA), about how emerging technologies, federal policy, and workforce development are transforming the modern security ecosystem. Representing more than 1,700 companies across the global security industry, SIA sits at the intersection of innovation, physical security, cybersecurity, and government policy. Erickson shares insights into how technologies like AI-enabled surveillance, cybersecurity integration, and advanced access control systems are changing how organizations protect people, assets, and critical infrastructure. The conversation also explores the growing demand for talent across the security sector. From engineers and cyber analysts to project managers and security technicians, Erickson explains why the industry offers a wide range of career opportunities — including for veterans, government professionals, and those transitioning into security roles. Kyzer and Erickson also discuss responsible AI use, the challenges of evolving regulatory frameworks, and how collaboration between government and industry is shaping the future of security. For professionals interested in national security, emerging technology, or security careers, this episode offers valuable insight into where the industry is heading next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to the Security Clearance Careers Podcast, where we explore the people, stories and strategies shaping the national security community. Today’s guest brings a perspective few can claim — years inside the CIA, operating in high-risk environments where awareness wasn’t optional… it was survival. Tim Beard is a former CIA officer and security expert who has spent his career thinking about threats most of us never see. Now, he’s translating those hard-earned lessons into practical guidance for everyday life through his new book series, Look Twice, beginning with Your Guide to Staying Safe in an Unsafe World. His message is simple but powerful: safety isn’t about fear — it’s about preparation. In this conversation, we’ll go beyond the headlines and beyond the book to talk about real-world situational awareness, travel security, everyday OPSEC, transportation risks and the mindset shift intelligence professionals use to stay one step ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The unfiltered guidance recruiters talk about internally—but don’t always say publicly. Recruiters spend their days reviewing resumes, navigating hiring manager expectations, managing candidate emotions, and balancing timelines that rarely cooperate. In between interviews and offer letters, there are quiet conversations recruiters have with each other — the honest, unfiltered kind. Tune in to this episode where the Director of Talent Acquisition and HR at STEMBoard, Casey Talley, shares some of the advice recruiters wish they could give every candidate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when the federal career you expected no longer exists? Lindy Kyzer speaks with Love Rutledge, host of the FedUpward podcast and longtime advocate for federal employees, about navigating unexpected career transitions in government. Love shares her own experience retiring earlier than planned through deferred resignation — and the identity shift that comes with stepping away from lifelong civil service. Together, they unpack the emotional and financial realities of leaving federal employment, how to translate federal resumes for private-sector roles, and why outcomes matter more than duties in today’s job market. They also highlight grassroots resources supporting transitioning federal employees, including community-led initiatives, networking strategies, and professional organizations that are helping fill gaps left by traditional support systems. Finally, they discuss an important countertrend: federal hiring isn’t gone. Agencies are rehiring. Budget cycles still drive opportunity. And for some professionals, the next move may be a return to government service — this time with clearer strategy and broader perspective. If you’re transitioning, underemployed, job searching, or simply reassessing your path in public service, this episode offers clarity, realism, and practical next steps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your first impression often isn’t a handshake. It’s a subject line. Recruiters spend hours crafting the perfect message to candidates, only to see it go unopened. The truth? Even the most compelling opportunity won’t matter if your email never gets clicked. A strong subject line can be the difference between a missed connection and your next great hire. Jay Schwedelson, founder and CEO of GURU Media Hub, has built and led businesses that have generated over $400 million in revenue, all by doing what most marketers are too afraid to try: breaking the so-called “best practices.” He joins the podcast to talk about what subject lines actually increase open rates and what best practices you should ignore. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re hiring cleared talent, you already know the market is moving fast—AI, clearance timelines, technical recruiting pressure…Today we’re breaking down why ClearanceJobs Connect West is the event recruiters should prioritize this year. Tune in to learn about Connect West in one word and what kind of recruiter gets the most value from attending. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping national security missions—but real AI readiness goes far beyond adopting new tools. On this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer is joined by Jennifer Ewbank, former Deputy Director of the CIA for Digital Innovation, for a deep dive into what it truly means for the federal government to be AI-ready. Together, they explore why AI readiness must start with mission readiness, not technology procurement; why digital literacy is no longer optional for the federal workforce; and how human judgment, accountability, and ethical decision-making become even more critical in an AI-enabled environment. The conversation also examines the growing overlap between AI and cybersecurity, the cultural and bureaucratic barriers slowing adoption, and the risks government faces if it fails to adapt. This episode offers practical insight for clearance holders, hiring leaders, policymakers, and technologists navigating the realities of AI, governance, and workforce transformation in national security. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breaking into cybersecurity or AI can feel overwhelming—especially with so much conflicting advice online. In our latest podcast episode, we sat down with Dr. Gerald Auger, a cybersecurity leader, educator, and founder of the Simply Cyber community, to cut through the noise and focus on what actually works. With over 20 years of experience across cybersecurity operations, leadership, and higher education, Dr. Auger shared practical guidance for anyone looking to launch or level up a technical career. We talked about the foundational skills employers care about most, how AI is reshaping cybersecurity roles, and why hands-on experience and community involvement often matter more than chasing every new certification. Dr. Auger also offered honest insights into common mistakes job seekers make—from relying too heavily on job boards to underestimating the power of personal branding and networking. For veterans and career switchers, he emphasized translating experience into business value and treating the job search like a mission with clear objectives and accountability. Whether you’re just starting out, transitioning from the military, or navigating the next step in your tech career, this episode delivers clear, actionable advice to help you move forward with confidence. 🎧 Listen to the full episode to learn how to build a cybersecurity or AI-adjacent career that lasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.