2 Cyber Chicks

In this episode of 2 Cyber Chicks, we’re joined by Dr. Michael Roman, Executive in Residence at Duke’s Pratt School of Engineering and a recognized leader in AI security, offensive and defensive AI, and emerging technology.Michael works at the intersection of physics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. A physicist by training with more than 15 years across cyber, defense, and deep tech, he runs the Applied AI-Cyber Lab at Duke, built the university’s AI-in-cybersecurity curriculum, and founded TwoTen Labs, a venture studio bringing emerging technology to market. His students made headlines inside the field for research showing exactly how much AI lowers the bar for launching cyberattacks, and he teaches the next generation to use AI on offense and defense, sometimes in the same lecture.In this conversation, we dive into:- Why he left physics, a field with fixed laws, for a field where the adversary adapts the moment you understand it- The hard call behind publishing research that shows how AI helps attackers, and where the line sits between studying a threat and handing out the roadmap- The real quantum computing timeline from someone who can actually do the math, and whether “harvest now, decrypt later” deserves your budget today- What he tells students entering cyber just as AI automates the entry-level rung, and his five-year bet on whether AI nets out for defenders or attackersThis episode is a must-listen for security leaders, educators, students breaking into the field, and anyone interested in how physics, AI, and cybersecurity come together when it matters most.Guest Information:Dr. Michael Roman, Executive in Residence, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University; Founder, TwoTen LabsConnect with Michael on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelproman/=========================Connect with 2 Cyber Chicks:LinkedIn: 2 Cyber Chicks PodcastEmail us: [email protected] Scott, Founder, @TheZaraAI- Jax on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/iamjax- YouTube: Outpost Gray- Twitter/X: @outpostgray- Website: iamjax.meErika McDuffie, Managing Principal, Coalfire Systems- Erika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-mcduffie-767394bb#2cyberchicks=========================Learn more about our Season Sponsor @ThreatLockerStop ransomware without the hassle. Allow what you need and block the rest with ThreatLocker Zero Trust Platform — simple to deploy, simple to manage. Learn more at https://threatlocker.com/2cyberchicks.=========================All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyberhttps://SimplyCyber.io/Socials

In this episode of 2 Cyber Chicks, we're joined by Shawnna Hoffman, CEO of Armored Quantum and a recognized leader in responsible AI, quantum-safe security, and digital trust.Shawnna works at the intersection of artificial intelligence, quantum security, and governance, helping organizations build guardrails that hold up under real-world pressure. She co-led IBM's global Watson AI legal practice, has testified before the CFTC on blockchain, and founded Women in eDiscovery and Diversity in Blockchain — and today she runs a company focused on protecting organizations from the day quantum computing breaks the encryption everything relies on.In this conversation, we explore:- What "responsible" AI actually means when everyone is shipping it anyway- Why quantum is the threat most security teams still aren't budgeting for- What the Watson-era AI hype cycle taught us about today's genAI rush- How to build guardrails without strangling innovationThis episode is a must-listen for security leaders, AI practitioners, and anyone interested in how governance, emerging technology, and trust come together before the next break.Follow Shawnna on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnnahoffman=========================Connect with 2 Cyber Chicks:LinkedIn: 2 Cyber Chicks PodcastEmail us: [email protected] Scott, Founder, @TheZaraAI- Jax on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/iamjax- YouTube: Outpost Gray- Twitter/X: @outpostgray- Website: iamjax.meErika McDuffie, Managing Principal, Coalfire Systems- Erika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-mcduffie-767394bb#2cyberchicks=========================Learn more about our Season Sponsor @ThreatLockerStop ransomware without the hassle. Allow what you need and block the rest with ThreatLocker Zero Trust Platform — simple to deploy, simple to manage. Learn more at https://threatlocker.com/2cyberchicks.=========================All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyberhttps://SimplyCyber.io/Socials

AI isn’t just the future, it’s already here. But are businesses truly prepared to move beyond the hype and harness its full potential?In this episode of 2 Cyber Chicks, we sit down with Santosh Kaveti, technologist, entrepreneur, investor, and CEO of ProArk. With 18+ years of experience driving innovation across 23 countries, Santosh brings unmatched insight into how AI is reshaping industries from Energy and Healthcare to Life Sciences and Manufacturing.We dive into:🚀 Why most companies fail at moving from AI strategy to real-world execution⚠️ The hidden AI risks leaders overlook—deepfakes, data leaks, compliance traps, and more🧩 How to prioritize AI initiatives that align with business goals (and avoid “AI for AI’s sake”)👩‍💻 Building and retaining world-class AI talent in a competitive market🔑 Why a foundation of security by design is essential for long-term AI resilienceBeyond tech, Santosh shares his passion for mentoring startups, uplifting underprivileged communities, and keeping a human-centered focus in the AI revolution. His energy, wisdom, and signature “phases” will leave you inspired and ready to think differently about AI.Connect with Santosh Kaveti on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/santoshkaveti=========================Connect with 2 Cyber Chicks:LinkedIn: 2 Cyber Chicks PodcastEmail us: [email protected] Scott, Founder, @OutpostGray- Jax on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/iamjax- YouTube: Outpost Gray- Twitter/X: @outpostgray- Website: iamjax.meErika McDuffie, Managing Principal, Coalfire Systems- Erika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-mcduffie-767394bb#2cyberchicks=========================Learn more about our Season Sponsor @ThreatLockerAllow what you need, block everything else... Including ransomware. Zero trust Endpoint Protection Platform from ThreatLocker. Learn more at https://threatlocker.com/2cyberchicks.=========================All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials=========================

Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive into the human side of cybersecurity with one of the most fascinating voices in the industry—Perry Carpenter, Chief Human Risk Strategist at KnowBe4.Perry brings a rare mix of technology expertise, behavioral science, and even stage magic to the world of cybersecurity. He’s the acclaimed author of Transformational Security Awareness and FAIK: A Practical Guide to Living in a World of Deepfakes, Disinformation, and AI-Generated Deceptions. He also hosts two award-winning podcasts—8th Layer Insights and Digital Folklore—where he explores how stories, myths, and human behavior shape our digital lives.In this conversation, we explore:Perry’s journey from psychology to leading human risk management in cybersecurityWhy the “human layer” is both the weakest link and the greatest strength in securityPractical ways behavioral science can reduce phishing and insider threatsThe alarming rise of AI-driven risks like deepfakes and disinformation—and how to prepareWhy storytelling may just be the most powerful tool for building a resilient security cultureThe oddest, funniest, and most eye-opening stories Perry has seen in the human element of cybersecurityAnd his bold predictions for the next five years of cybersecurity awarenessYou’ll walk away with a fresh perspective on why hackers don’t just target systems—they target people. And more importantly, how to turn human risk into human strength.Connect with Perry Carpenter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perrycarpenter/Check out Perry's Website, 8th Layer Media: https://www.8thlayermedia.com/Buy Perry's book, FAIK: https://www.thisbookisfaik.com/Listen to the FAIK Files Podcast: https://thecyberwire.com/podcasts/the-faik-filesSubscribe to Perry's YouTube channel, The FAIK Files: https://www.youtube.com/@theFAIKfiles =========================Connect with 2 Cyber Chicks:LinkedIn: 2 Cyber Chicks PodcastEmail us: [email protected] Scott, Founder, @OutpostGray- Jax on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/iamjax- YouTube: Outpost Gray- Twitter/X: @outpostgray- Website: iamjax.meErika McDuffie, Managing Principal, Coalfire Systems- Erika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-mcduffie-767394bb#2cyberchicks=========================Learn more about our Sponsor, @ThreatLockerAllow what you need, block everything else... Including ransomware. Zero trust Endpoint Protection Platform from ThreatLocker. Learn more at https://threatlocker.com/2cyberchicks.=========================All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials=========================

In this episode of 2 Cyber Chicks, we sit down with David Cook, Director of National Security at ShadowDragon, to discuss the intersection of intelligence, cybersecurity, and geopolitics. With the 2024 election cycle in full swing and tensions rising globally, cyber threats against the U.S. are more complex than ever.David, a seasoned national security expert with experience in special operations, OSINT, and congressional policy advising, breaks down how threat actors—state-sponsored and otherwise—are leveraging cyber tactics to exploit political instability. From election interference to critical infrastructure attacks, David shares his insights on what’s at stake, where the vulnerabilities lie, and how the U.S. can strengthen its cyber defenses in this volatile landscape.Tune in to hear:The biggest cyber threats facing the U.S. during this election yearHow nation-state actors like Russia and China might escalate cyber attacksThe role of OSINT and disinformation in modern cyber warfareWhat the U.S. government and private sector must do to stay ahead of cyber adversariesConnect with David Cook on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-n-cookLearn more about ShadowDragon: https://shadowdragon.io=========================Connect with 2 Cyber Chicks:LinkedIn: 2 Cyber Chicks PodcastEmail us: [email protected] Scott, Founder, @OutpostGray- Jax on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/iamjax- YouTube: Outpost Gray- Twitter/X: @outpostgray- Website: iamjax.meErika McDuffie, Managing Principal, Coalfire Systems- Erika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-mcduffie-767394bb#2cyberchicks=========================Learn more about our Sponsor, @ThreatLockerAllow what you need, block everything else... Including ransomware. Zero trust Endpoint Protection Platform from ThreatLocker. Learn more at https://simplycyber.io/threatlocker.=========================All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials=========================

In this episode of 2 Cyber Chicks, Erika and Jax discuss the rapidly evolving world of AI-powered cyber threats with Aaron Painter, CEO of Nametag Inc. and a deepfake expert. With cybercriminals leveraging AI to clone voices and fabricate identities, businesses face a growing threat from social engineering attacks.Aaron shares insights on how his company is using AI and machine learning to fight back against deepfake attacks—especially in healthcare, IT, and insurance sectors, where identity fraud is skyrocketing. We break down what deepfakes are, how they impact individuals and organizations, and why Gartner predicts that by 2026, nearly one-third of enterprises will consider identity verification unreliable due to AI-generated deepfakes.We also take a step back to discuss leadership in a digital age—drawing from Aaron’s experiences as a former Microsoft VP in China, CEO of Cloudreach in London, and author of Loyal—a leadership guide on building trust and long-term relationships.Tune in to hear:✅ The real dangers of deepfake technology and how AI is reshaping cybersecurity✅ How threat actors are using AI to deceive helpdesk agents and bypass authentication✅ Why identity verification is under attack and how Nametag is staying ahead of evolving threats✅ Leadership lessons from Aaron’s global experience and tips on earning trust and loyalty in the workplace🎙 Don’t miss this insightful conversation with one of the leading voices in AI-driven cybersecurity!Website: GetNametag.comLinkedIn: Aaron PainterPodcast Booking: KitcasterBook: Loyal: A Leader's Guide to Winning Customer and Employee Loyalty: https://a.co/d/1YjJ2aATEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/aaron_painter_listen_to_this_how_listening_can_transform_work_and_the_world?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare=========================Connect with 2 Cyber Chicks:LinkedIn: 2 Cyber Chicks PodcastEmail us: [email protected] Scott, Founder, @OutpostGray- Jax on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/iamjax- YouTube: Outpost Gray- Twitter/X: @outpostgray- Website: iamjax.meErika McDuffie, Managing Principal, Coalfire Systems- Erika on LinkedIn#2cyberchicks=========================Learn more about our Sponsor, @ThreatLockerAllow what you need, block everything else... Including ransomware. Zero trust Endpoint Protection Platform from ThreatLocker. Learn more at https://simplycyber.io/threatlocker.=========================All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials=========================

In this episode of 2 Cyber Chicks, Jax and Erika dive into the current state of the labor force and the macroeconomic factors shaping the job market. With roles being eliminated, a shift towards junior positions, and companies expecting employees to do more with less, it’s more important than ever to be strategic in your job search and professional growth.We break down how to work with hiring managers, navigate AI filtering in job applications, and hack the job market with smart interview techniques. Plus, we share actionable tips and tricks to stand out in a crowded market.Beyond job hunting, we talk about the importance of being intentional in networking, building deeper connections without meeting in person, and how to support your LinkedIn network. We’re also throwing down a challenge—take a moment today to write a LinkedIn recommendation for someone in your network!Tune in to hear: ✅ How to adapt to a changing job market and stay competitive ✅ Insider tips on navigating AI filters and standing out in interviews ✅ The best ways to connect authentically in a digital world ✅ Why giving LinkedIn recommendations can strengthen your network ✅ How being intentional can create meaningful relationships in your career🎙 This is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow their career, job seekers wanting an edge, and professionals striving for deeper connections in a digital-first world.=========================Connect with 2 Cyber Chicks:LinkedIn: 2 Cyber Chicks PodcastEmail us: [email protected] Scott, Founder, @OutpostGray- Jax on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/iamjax- YouTube: Outpost Gray- Twitter/X: @outpostgray- Website: iamjax.meErika McDuffie, Managing Principal, Coalfire Systems- Erika on LinkedIn#2cyberchicks=========================Learn more about our Sponsor, @ThreatLockerAllow what you need, block everything else... Including ransomware. Zero trust Endpoint Protection Platform from ThreatLocker. Learn more at https://simplycyber.io/threatlocker.=========================All the ways to connect with @SimplyCyber https://SimplyCyber.io/Socials=========================