Security Clearance Insecurity

In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Jacob Centeno, founder of Poor Bear Stories, to explore the power of storytelling within the national security community. From his personal journey as a Gold Star family member to building a mission-driven media company, Centeno shares how authenticity, vulnerability, and lived experience shape the stories he tells.The conversation dives into the unique connection between storytelling and service—how shared experiences can break down barriers, build trust, and reveal the human side of intelligence and special operations communities. Centeno also reflects on the evolving landscape of content creation, the tension between AI-generated media and handcrafted storytelling, and why depth and meaning still matter in a world flooded with content.Plus, the episode touches on the emotional impact of creative work, the importance of community at events like ClearanceJobs Connect, and how purpose-driven storytelling can extend the life and impact of mission-focused moments.Whether you're in national security, media, or simply passionate about meaningful storytelling, this episode offers insight into how stories connect us—and why they matter more than ever.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What makes a great boss—and why do so many get it wrong?In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, Lindy Kyzer 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.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The security industry is evolving far beyond its traditional image of guards, guns, and gates. Today, it sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, federal policy, and critical infrastructure protection.In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, Lindy Kyzer speaks with Don Erickson, CEO of the Security Industry Association (SIA), about how emerging technologies are transforming the physical security landscape. From AI-enabled surveillance systems to cybersecurity integration and supply chain protections, the industry is playing a growing role in national security.They also discuss how SIA works with federal policymakers to promote responsible innovation, the challenges of navigating evolving AI regulations, and why workforce development is critical as the industry competes for talent.Plus, the conversation explores career pathways into the security industry—including opportunities for veterans, transitioning federal employees, and professionals with skills in engineering, cybersecurity, project management, and analytics.In the second segment, security clearance attorney Elisabeth Baker-Pham joins Lindy to discuss a growing trend: people turning to AI tools for legal guidance on clearance issues—and why relying on AI instead of a qualified attorney can create serious risks.Topics discussed:The growing role of AI in physical securityEthical frameworks for surveillance technologiesWorkforce development and new security career pathsChallenges of AI policy and regulatory patchworksWhy AI is not your security clearance lawyerIf you work in national security, technology, or the broader security ecosystem, this episode offers insight into where the industry—and its workforce—is heading next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal government can no longer treat artificial intelligence as optional—but what does true AI readiness actually look like?On this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Jennifer Ewbank, former Deputy Director of the CIA for Digital Innovation, to unpack how AI is reshaping national security missions, workforce expectations, and accountability across government.Rather than focusing on tools or pilot programs, Ewbank makes the case for a mission-first approach to AI—one that prioritizes readiness, governance, and human judgment. The conversation explores why digital literacy must become foundational for the entire federal workforce, how AI and cybersecurity skills are increasingly intertwined, and why uniquely human skills like critical thinking, ethics, and adaptability matter more than ever.They also dive into the realities holding agencies back—from messy data environments and compliance-driven culture to slow hiring pipelines and outdated talent systems—and why the greatest risk to government may be standing still while technology accelerates.Whether you’re a clearance holder, hiring leader, policymaker, or technologist, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at what it will take to responsibly scale AI across federal missions—without losing accountability, transparency, or trust.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does flexibility really mean for the national security workforce—and why does it matter now?In this episode, ClearanceJobs’ Lindy Kyzer is joined by workforce strategist and former federal executive Mika Cross for a timely conversation on the future of federal and cleared work. Drawing from congressional testimony, workforce data, and decades of public service experience, they unpack how telework, hybrid models, and strategic flexibility directly impact mission readiness, talent retention, and national security outcomes.The discussion explores:Why flexibility is a national security imperative, not a workplace perkThe real costs of losing high-performing cleared professionalsMilitary spouse employment and its impact on readinessWhat the President’s Management Agenda signals for the federal workforceHow national security agencies can lead on agility, trust, and innovationThis episode offers critical insight for cleared professionals, federal leaders, recruiters, and policymakers navigating the evolving realities of government work.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the ClearanceJobs Podcast, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Leslie Reid, Vice President of Defense Programs at iWorks and former senior leader at the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), for a deep-dive conversation into the reality and the future of Trusted Workforce 2.0.With more than two decades of leadership experience across the national security and defense community, Leslie has been at the center of some of the most significant vetting reforms of the past decade. From driving modernization at DCSA to championing agile, scalable solutions that support mission requirements, Leslie brings unmatched insight into how the personnel-vetting enterprise is transforming and what’s coming next.Together, Lindy and Leslie unpack the big questions shaping TW 2.0 today:How are agencies implementing modernization at scale?What challenges remain around reciprocity, system adoption, clearance mobility, and workforce readiness?How are new tools including automation, AI, and continuous vetting technologies changing expectations for applicants, employers, and security professionals?And what does the future look like as the government prepares for the next era of risk-based, data-driven vetting?Whether you’re an FSO, recruiter, HR leader, cleared professional, or simply someone trying to make sense of the alphabet soup of vetting reforms, this is a conversation that pulls back the curtain on what Trusted Workforce 2.0 really means—and how it will reshape national security hiring for years to come.Tune in for an expert-driven, mission-focused discussion on security clearance modernization.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal hiring is never simple. And right now, it’s changing faster than ever. From new incentives for law enforcement and the growing demand for IT talent, to changes like the two-page USAJobs resume rule, the landscape can feel overwhelming.On this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity on Federal News Network, ClearanceJobs’ Lindy Kyzer sits down with federal jobs coach Armand Curet to break it all down. They’ll unpack the latest on hiring freezes, agency-specific trends, and the myths that stop great candidates from landing government roles.Whether you’re a veteran, a career-changer, or just curious about what it takes to work for the federal government, this conversation will help you cut through the noise and get clarity on your next steps.And if you’re looking for even more insight into federal careers, don’t miss FedWork, the new resource from ClearanceJobs designed to help you navigate federal hiring, applications, and career growth.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jill Hamilton Content Director, ClearanceJobs, joins Lindy Kyzer to discuss a brand new book that discusses the history and the current realities of the Clearance process. In Trust Me: A Guide to Secrets, Lindy Kyzer tackles the wonky security clearance process in one readable resource for applicants and professionals alike.A recent Reddit post from a young applicant illustrates the stakes. The individual admitted to years of marijuana use but confessed they had already told their recruiter “no drug usage.” Unsure of how to move forward, they turned online for advice—and found the internet urging them to lie. Kyzer’s book and her broader message address exactly why that’s the wrong path.Trust vs. Fear of DisqualificationFor many applicants, the biggest fear is that one mistake will end their career before it begins. That fear leads to a troubling temptation: lying on the forms or to an investigator. Kyzer stresses that this fear is misplaced. The clearance process is built to account for human imperfection through something called the 'whole person' concept. What matters most is whether an individual demonstrates honesty and growth, not whether they lived without flaws.Internet Advice vs. Official GuidanceThe Reddit post is a case study in the dangers of relying on unofficial advice. Seventy-five percent of commenters told the applicant to lie—directly contradicting what security professionals and adjudicators would say. Kyzer points out that this disconnect is one reason she wrote Trust Me. By elevating authoritative voices and demystifying clearance rules, the book seeks to drown out the misinformation that thrives online.Marijuana and Modern PolicyMarijuana remains one of the most confusing issues in the clearance world. State laws have shifted, but federal rules still apply. The applicant in this case had been marijuana-free since October, raising the question: is that enough? Kyzer emphasizes that adjudicators look for patterns, recency, and demonstrated change. While past use is not automatically disqualifying, dishonesty about that use almost always is.Building Long-Term Trust in the Clearance SystemThe broader takeaway is clear: applicants don’t fully trust the system to be fair, and yet the system itself rests entirely on trustworthiness. Kyzer argues that closing that gap will require more than rulebooks; it will take proactive communication from recruiters, transparency from investigators, and cultural reinforcement from agencies. When honesty feels like the safer choice, both individuals and the national security community benefit.Weigh in: Looking for a place to share your own federal stories or career advice? Visit us at FedWork, a brand new Internet forum designed for federal employees and those interested in federal work. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, we sit down with Steven Gaffney, CEO of the Steven Gaffney Company, renowned leadership expert, and author of Unconditional Power. Known for helping Fortune 500 companies, U.S. government agencies, and military organizations build Consistently High Achieving Teams (CHAT®), Steven shares powerful insights on unlocking team potential, fostering candid communication, and overcoming leadership challenges in today’s workforce.From breaking down the biggest misconceptions leaders have about high performance, to offering actionable tips for encouraging honesty and accountability, Steven reveals the mindset shifts that transform struggling teams into thriving ones. He also reflects on the unique challenges of leading in the government and national security space, and what leaders must do to maintain performance despite ongoing workforce pressures.If you’re a leader—or aspire to be one—this episode offers practical strategies and inspiration for building teams that consistently deliver, no matter the environment.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join us for an insider’s look at how Tru-Vetting is reshaping the personnel security landscape. In this episode, we explore the driving force behind Tru-Vetting’s founding, its alignment with Trusted Workforce 2.0, and how its technology eases the burden on overworked FSOs while keeping compliance front and center. Hear firsthand how modern tools can enhance insider threat detection, continuous vetting, and risk management — and learn from early adopters about real-world success stories proving that better vetting makes for a stronger, more resilient workforce.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What’s really happening with Trusted Workforce 2.0? In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, we sit down with Alyssa Czyz, Director at the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), to discuss GAO’s recently released report on the federal government’s personnel vetting reform initiative, Trusted Workforce 2.0.Czyz breaks down the GAO study, its key findings, and what they reveal about the current state of implementation across the federal personnel security enterprise. From the promise of Continuous Vetting to the persistent delays with NBIS, she provides an expert look at where progress is real—and where it's still pending.We explore: What’s working—and what’s stalling—in the implementation of Trusted Workforce reforms. Why some core initiatives, like the Personnel Vetting Management Standards, remain unimplemented. How GAO assessed confidence in NBIS as the central IT system supporting background investigations. Whether Continuous Vetting can overcome its overshadowed status to become the cornerstone of a modern vetting model. Whether you're a policy wonk, FSO, or national security hiring lead, this conversation offers rare clarity into one of the government’s most ambitious—but still evolving—reform efforts.🎧 Tune in to learn where Trusted Workforce is heading—and what it’ll take to get there.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Debbie Sallis of The Cyber Guild, a nonprofit on a mission to build a resilient, inclusive cybersecurity workforce joins the show to discuss how the Guild is tackling retention, community-building, and allyship through programs. Plus, hear how the upcoming May 29th Cyber Connect event in Arlington, VA is helping transitioning federal and military professionals build trusted connections, sharpen their skills, and protect their clearances in today’s volatile market. Discover why curated relationship-building—not just networking—is key to the future of cybersecurity careers. For more info and to register, visit www.thecyberguild.org. In the second half of the show, Lindy Kyzer and Sean Bigley of ClearanceJobs discuss the finer points of what it means to leave a job under 'unfavorable circumstances' - and why the question commonly trips up clearance applicants.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.