S2 E29: Leading Secure: Insights from Dr. Kathi Middleton

🔥 Get ready to brew up some serious inspiration! This episode of Cyber Coffee Hour features the phenomenal Dr. Kathi Middleton – a captivating speaker, author, and undisputed powerhouse in cybersecurity and IT leadership.
Join us for an electrifying conversation as Dr. Middleton shares her journey from spearheading massive security initiatives at giants like AT&T, US Bank, and Intercontinental Hotels Group, to championing lifelong learning and diversity in tech. Discover her actionable strategies for navigating the complexities of cyberspace and cultivating truly innovative, secure business environments. ☕
In this episode, you'll learn:
How to build robust security frameworks that stand the test of time.
The secrets to cross-functional team leadership in complex tech projects.
Dr. Middleton's passion for fostering diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity space.
Practical advice on mentoring and empowering the next generation of IT and cyber leaders.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, Dr. Middleton's insights are a must-listen for anyone looking to make a significant impact in the digital world.

Connect with Dr. Kathi Middleton:
➡️ Website: https://www.kathimiddleton.com/
➡️ Book: Courageous: How To Transform Pain Into Power on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Courageous-Tra...

Have a Cup of Coffee with Us! ☕
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Connect with the Cyber Coffee Hour Team!
➡️ Dr. Joseph J. Burt-Miller Jr.
➡️ Alfredzo B. Nash Jr.
➡️ Cyber Coffee Hour Podcast
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➡️ Alive Podcast Network: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/

❓ Your Question for This Episode:
Dr. Middleton emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and the empowerment of future leaders. What's ONE piece of advice you'd give to someone just starting their career in cybersecurity or IT? Share your wisdom in the comments below! 👇🏾

Episode Timecodes:
00:00 - Welcome to Cyber Coffee Hour
01:43 - Meet Our Guest: Dr. Kathi Middleton
05:38 - Key Leadership Principles in Technology
09:11 - Making Cybersecurity Accessible for Everyone
11:16 - Common Roadblocks for Tech Professionals (and How to Overcome Them)
16:44 - Adapting Cybersecurity Strategies to Different Industries
19:18 - Fostering Diversity and Inclusion in Tech
24:39 - The Importance of Appreciation in Leadership
32:42 - Transforming Pain into Power: Insights from "Courageous"
33:59 - Navigating Pain with Purpose
36:50 - Emerging Cybersecurity Threats to Watch Out For
45:16 - Dr. Middleton's Journey into Cybersecurity
46:49 - Overcoming Obstacles and Imposter Syndrome
50:59 - Building Strong Communities in Cybersecurity
52:48 - The Power of Clarity in Leadership
54:15 - Traveling for Learning and Professional Growth
57:24 - Episode Wrap-up

ℹ️About Cyber Coffee Hour:
The Cyber Coffee Hour is hosted by Dr. Joseph J. Burt-Miller Jr. and Alfredzo B. Nash Jr. – two cyber experts from Mount Vernon, NY, who share a passion for good coffee and insightful conversations. We believe the cybersecurity landscape needs to hear from voices at all stages of their journey. Our mission is to feature guests across the cybersecurity spectrum, with a particular focus on those navigating challenges such as gatekeeping, racism, and other biases in their path to cybersecurity. We uniquely spread the cybersecurity gospel by featuring guests with and without a cybersecurity background, always with cybersecurity as the common denominator.

⚖️Disclaimer:
The views, opinions, and thoughts expressed herein are solely those of the Cyber Coffee Hour and do not necessarily reflect those of our employers or any personal or professional relationships.