Keywords

cybersecurity, military transition, Tampa cybersecurity, mentorship, cyber law, incident response, private sector, cybersecurity misconceptions, legal perspectives, cybersecurity growth

Summary

In this episode of No Password Required, hosts Jack Clabby and Kayley Melton sit down with Kurt Sanger — former Deputy General Counsel at U.S. Cyber Command — to talk about the evolving world of cyber law, the wild ride from government service to private sector strategy, and what keeps him grounded in a field that’s constantly shifting. Kurt dives into the fast-growing cybersecurity scene in Tampa, the power of mentorship, and why people still get cyber law so wrong. Plus: insights on responding to incidents under pressure and what role the government should (and shouldn’t) play in the digital fight.

Takeaways

Kurt emphasizes that newcomers to cybersecurity are not as far behind as they think.

The transition from military to private sector can be challenging but rewarding.

Tampa is becoming a significant hub for cybersecurity talent and companies.

Understanding cybersecurity misconceptions is crucial for decision-makers.

Mentorship plays a vital role in navigating career challenges in cybersecurity.

Military and civilian cyber law have distinct differences in enforcement and flexibility.

The stakes in private sector cybersecurity can be incredibly high for clients.

Kurt's experience highlights the need for collaboration between government and private sectors.

Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field that requires continuous learning.

Kurt finds excitement in helping clients during their most challenging times.

Sound bites

"You're only six months behind."

"We're all in the same boat."

"The government needs to step back."

Chapters

00:00 NPR S6E7 Kurt Sanger

52:53 NPR S6E7 Kurt Sanger

01:45:47 Introduction to Cybersecurity Conversations

01:48:22 Transitioning from Military to Private Sector Cybersecurity

01:51:11 The Growth of Tampa as a Cybersecurity Hub

01:54:05 Understanding Cybersecurity Misconceptions

01:57:15 The Role of Mentorship in Cybersecurity Careers

02:00:24 Military vs. Civilian Cybersecurity Law

02:03:07 The Excitement of Cyber Command vs. Private Sector

02:13:52 High Stakes in Cybersecurity for Small Organizations

02:15:44 The Role of Legal Experts in Cybersecurity

02:17:21 Translating Technical Jargon for Clients

02:18:57 Challenges of Explaining Cyber Operations to Commanders

02:22:43 Lifestyle Polygraph: Fun Questions and Insights

02:23:30 The 10,000 Hour Rule in Cybersecurity

02:29:34 Creative Freedom with LEGO Bricks

02:31:27 Tampa's Culinary Delights and Local Favorites