Shows
The Hacker's Cache#48 He Got Hired Without Knowing the Answer: Here’s Why ft. Michael KimIn this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, senior offensive security consultant Michael Kim shares how he landed a cybersecurity job without knowing all the answers in the interview and why hiring managers still chose him. We discuss how to ace your cybersecurity interview, the importance of mindset and growth, and why technical skills alone aren’t enough. Michael also opens up about his unconventional path from zoology and DJing to penetration testing, and how he built his network through LinkedIn. If you’re trying to break into cybersecurity or level up your career, this episode is packed with real-w...2025-06-0438 minThe Hacker's Cache#46 She Started Coding at 13 and Never Looked Back ft. Betta Lyon DelsordoBetta Lyon Delsordo started coding at just 13 years old and never looked back. In this episode, she shares how learning to code as a rebellious teen sparked a career that led her from freelance web development to becoming a lead application pentester specializing in web, cloud, and AI hacking. We talk about how anyone can learn to code, the importance of specialization in cybersecurity, why physical security is overrated, and how to break into AI hacking. Whether you're brand new to tech or looking to pivot your career, Betta's story will challenge your excuses and inspire you to take...2025-05-1439 minThe Hacker's Cache#45 OSWA Grind: 24 Hours. No Sleep. One Last Flag ft. Pratham ShahHe stayed up for 24 hours straight to pass one of OffSec’s toughest exams. In this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, I sit down with Pratham Shah, a 21-year-old cybersecurity consultant who holds OSCE3, OSCP+, OSWA, and more. We break down his insane study grind, how OSWA pushed him harder than OSCP, and why he thinks passion matters more than paychecks. From bug bounty beginnings to expert-level certifications, this episode is packed with raw stories, certification strategy, and hard-earned advice for anyone chasing a career in offensive security. Whether you're working on OSCP, OSWA, or just brea...2025-05-0835 minThe Hacker's Cache#44 How to Hack What No One Teaches ft. Noah PackIn this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, I sit down with Noah Pack, an aerospace pentester with a ridiculous cert stack and an unconventional mindset. We talk about hacking obscure systems with no public tools or documentation, transitioning from SOC analyst to pentester, and why reading the manual might be your secret weapon. If you’ve ever wondered how to approach targets that no one teaches you how to test, this episode is a must-listen. Noah also shares insight on the value of multiple certifications, his experience with the SANS degree program, and tips for breaking into offensive secu...2025-04-3033 minThe Hacker's Cache#43 Grind Now, Relax Later: The Harsh Reality of Breaking Into Cybersecurity ft. Matthew Younker (Zumi Yumi)In this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, Matthew Younker (aka Zumi Yumi) shares the raw truth about what it really took to break into offensive security, working full time, going to college, and grinding for OSCP with almost zero rest. He opens up about the unhealthy sacrifices he made, why OSWA was harder than OSCP, and how his journey from Army hazmat to pentester shaped the way he works today. If you’ve ever wondered what the grind really looks like behind the certifications and titles, this one hits close to home. Connect with Matthew Younker (Zumi...2025-04-2334 minThe Hacker's Cache#42 Certifications, College, or Bootcamps — What’s Worth It in Cybersecurity? ft. Channa RajaratneIn this episode, Channa Rajaratne joins me to unpack one of the most common questions in cybersecurity: should you go after certifications, a college degree, or a bootcamp? We break down the pros and cons of each, share personal experiences, and talk about which path actually helped us get hired. Channa also shares his take on underrated skills like report writing, soft skills, and why being a well-rounded practitioner matters more than chasing every shiny new cert. If you're trying to break into pentesting or level up your career, this episode is for you. Connect with Channa...2025-04-1639 minThe Hacker's Cache#40 Proof You Don’t Need a Degree to Succeed in Cybersecurity ft. Zach WinchesterIn this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, Kyser Clark and Zach Winchester talk about breaking into cybersecurity without a college degree and why it’s not the dealbreaker people think it is. You’ll hear a real-world story of going from firewall configs to full-time pentesting with just an OSCP and hands-on experience. We also get into hardware hacking, social engineering discomfort, AI/LLM security loopholes, and why the offensive security space is far from being automated. If you’re wondering whether a degree is essential to succeed in this field, this episode is your answer. Connect2025-03-2639 minThe Hacker's Cache#38 Fired or Freed? Turning a Cybersecurity Layoff into Your Next Big Break w Justin MahonGetting laid off can feel like the end of the road, but what if it’s actually the beginning of something bigger? In this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, Justin Mahon shares his journey from military IT to offensive security, including how he bounced back after a cybersecurity layoff and landed in a better position than before. We break down the reality of tech layoffs, why they happen, and how to turn them into opportunities for career growth. Whether you're navigating a layoff, preparing for the worst, or just looking to future-proof your cybersecurity career, this epis...2025-03-1239 minThe Hacker's Cache#37 He Hacked for 1000 Days Straight: Here’s How It Landed Him a Cybersecurity Job ft. Constantinos KaplanisIn this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, I sit down with Constantinos Kaplanis, a senior penetration tester who took an unconventional path into cybersecurity. With no prior IT experience, he grinded his way into the field—applying to 500 jobs, enduring countless rejections, and proving his skills through sheer persistence. One of his biggest accomplishments? A 1,000-day hacking streak on TryHackMe, a testament to his dedication. We break down his journey, the job-hunting struggles, and the underrated attack vectors he’s exploited in real-world pentests. If you’re trying to break into cybersecurity, this is...2025-03-0524 minThe Hacker's Cache#36 The OSCP Won’t Save You ft. Tyler RamsbeyMany aspiring penetration testers believe that earning the OSCP is the ultimate proof of their skills—but what happens when they step into a real-world engagement? In this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, Tyler Ramsbey joins me to break down the hard truth about OSCP, the gaps it leaves in real-world pentesting, and why experience always outweighs certifications. We discuss rookie mistakes, the reality of internal assessments, and why leadership and communication skills are just as critical as technical expertise. Whether you're chasing the OSCP or already have it, this episode will challenge what you think you know abou...2025-02-2644 min
the underview.the downstream people, the elders with Barbara Kyser-Collier (ep 2, 10).Send us a textthe downstream people, the elders with Barbara Kyser-Collier.In this episode of the underview, Barbara Kyser-Collier, a leader and elder of the Quapaw Nation, shares the history, resilience, and cultural restoration of her people. From the impact of federal policies that led to the loss of full-blood Quapaw to the ongoing fight for sovereignty and identity, Barbara’s story sheds light on the enduring strength of Indigenous communities. This episode explores the creation of the Quapaw Nation’s flag, the significance of cultural preservation, and what it means to recl...2025-02-181h 29The Hacker's Cache#34 Why Top Pentesters Make More Money (Most Ignore This Skill) ft. Spencer AlessiKyser Clark sits down with senior penetration tester Spencer Alessi to discuss a skill that separates top-tier pentesters from the rest—client communication. While technical prowess is essential, Spencer shares how clear, proactive communication can make or break a pentest engagement, impact client trust, and even determine career growth. They also dive into the common struggle of pentesting ultra-secure environments, how to navigate “quiet” assessments, and why 99% of vulnerabilities don’t actually matter. Whether you’re an aspiring pentester or a seasoned professional, this conversation offers valuable insights into what it really takes to succeed in offensi...2025-02-1243 minThe Hacker's Cache#33 Are Cybersecurity Bootcamps a Scam? ft. Keith ColemanAre cybersecurity bootcamps worth the hefty price tag, or are they just another overhyped shortcut to nowhere? In this episode of The Hacker’s Cache, I sit down with Keith Coleman, a seasoned cybersecurity professional with experience in pentesting, security engineering, DevSecOps, and more. We break down the true value of bootcamps, why many graduates struggle to land jobs, and what alternative paths provide a better return on investment. Keith shares his journey from IT to cybersecurity, his take on degrees vs. certifications, and why hands-on learning beats expensive bootcamps every time. If you're considering a cybersecurity bootcamp, listen to...2025-02-0540 minThe Hacker's Cache#32 From Physical Security to Penetration Testing: Paul Nieto III's JourneyKyser Clark is joined by Paul Nieto, a seasoned penetration tester with over 22 years of experience spanning physical and cybersecurity. Paul shares his journey from physical security to offensive security, detailing how his curiosity and drive for challenges led to a successful career pivot. They discuss the importance of networking, the debate between being a generalist or specialist in cybersecurity, and why accountability and consistency are crucial for success in the field. Paul also offers actionable advice for transitioning into cybersecurity, including tips on certifications, skill-building, and leveraging conferences for career growth. Whether you're an aspiring ethical hacker or...2025-01-2941 minThe Hacker's Cache#31 Q&A: Are Tech Giants Planning to Replace Us with AI?Kyser Clark dives into the growing role of AI in the tech industry and its potential to replace mid-level professionals. Inspired by comments from tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg, we explore why companies are investing heavily in AI, how it could reshape the middle-class job market, and what it means for cybersecurity professionals. Kyser shares actionable advice on how to future-proof your career, leverage AI as a tool rather than a threat, and develop skills that make you indispensable in a rapidly evolving field. Don’t miss this critical conversation about the intersection of AI and the workforce. C...2025-01-2231 minThe Hacker's Cache#30 Uncovering a $200M Fraud Ring with David TaxerDavid Taxer, a cybersecurity expert with over 12 years of experience, shares the incredible story of uncovering a $200 million fraud ring disguised under a major corporation. Learn how his unique background in SEO and intelligence helped him expose insider threats and fraudulent schemes, as well as the challenges he faced as a whistleblower. This episode dives deep into protecting yourself from identity theft, understanding corporate vulnerabilities, and adopting the hacker mindset to uncover hidden truths.Connect with David Taxer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidtaxer/ and at Texas Cyber Solutions: https://www.texascybersolutions.com/2025-01-1543 minThe Hacker's Cache#29 InfoSec Pat’s Journey From Network Engineer to Cyber Mentor:Kyser Clark interviews Patrick Gorman, also known as InfoSec Pat, a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 23 years of experience. They discuss the importance of certifications in the cybersecurity field, the challenges of retaining knowledge, and the journey of creating educational content on YouTube. Pat shares insights on his motivations for teaching and mentoring others, as well as his thoughts on bug bounty programs and the value of collaborative learning.Check out InfoSec Pat on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/InfoSecPatAnd Connect with Patrick Gorman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/infosecpat/2025-01-0841 minThe Hacker's Cache#28 Outwork the Competition: Winning the Cybersecurity Career GameIn this episode, Kyser Clark discusses the competitive landscape of cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of culture fit, the reality of job openings, and how to stand out in a crowded field. He highlights the necessity of hard work, continuous learning, and the value of soft skills in securing a position. Additionally, he addresses the misconceptions about the cybersecurity job market and encourages listeners to invest in their careers through training and certifications.TakeawaysCompetition is fierce in cybersecurity due to limited job openings.Culture fit is often more important than technical skills in hiring...2025-01-0128 minThe Hacker's Cache#27 Red Team Reality: Building the Hacker's Edge ft. Mike OrtizIn this conversation, Mike Ortiz discusses various aspects of cybersecurity, focusing on the importance of curiosity, the dynamics between red and blue teams, and the transition into red teaming. He emphasizes the need for collaboration between teams and the significance of understanding the foundational roles in cybersecurity. Mike also shares his personal journey into the field and offers valuable advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.TakeawaysPrivacy is a trade-off for convenience in the digital age.Curiosity drives persistence in problem-solving for hackers.Red teaming involves prolonged engagement and understanding of systems.The...2024-12-2545 minThe Hacker's Cache#26 Q&A: The Certification Everyone Asks For (Is It Overrated?)In this Q&A episode, Kyser Clark addresses various questions related to cybersecurity certifications, focusing on the relevance of CISSP in 2025, the comparison between CPTS and OSCP, and the role of OSCP as a gatekeeper certification. He also discusses the value of TCM and INE certifications and provides insights on the time investment required for the eJPT certification. The conversation emphasizes the importance of experience and practical knowledge in the cybersecurity field.TakeawaysCISSP remains the most in-demand certification in cybersecurity.Experience is crucial for obtaining CISSP certification.CISSP covers a broad range of cybersecurity topics...2024-12-1827 minThe Hacker's Cache#25 Beyond Compliance: How Hackers Think and What Companies Miss ft. Albert CorzoKyser Clark engages with cybersecurity expert Albert Corzo, who shares his extensive experience in ethical hacking, bug bounty programs, and the importance of certifications in the field. Albert discusses his past experiences, including hacking the U.S. government, and emphasizes the need for understanding cybercrime and threat actors to better protect organizations. The conversation also covers the differences between compliance and security, the challenges of bug bounty hunting, and the significance of mentorship in cybersecurity careers.Bug bounty programs can serve as a practical playground for ethical hackers.Understanding how cybercriminals operate is crucial for...2024-12-1141 minThe Hacker's Cache#24 Building a Career Together: Lessons from Clint & Si The HackersKyser Clark is joined by Simon and Clint from the YouTube channel 'Clint & Si The Hackers.' They discuss their journey into cybersecurity, the importance of practical experience over formal education, and the benefits of collaboration in building a successful career. The conversation covers various aspects of penetration testing, the challenges faced in their careers, and the significance of certifications and continuous learning in the field.Watch Clint & Si The Hackers On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@_The_hackersConnect with Clint on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clinton-elves-180ba0148/Connect with Simon...2024-12-0439 minThe Hacker's Cache#23 SOC Analyst Life: Challenges & Secrets from Trent WilliamsKyser Clark and Trent Williams talk about the roles and experiences of a SOC analyst. They discuss the challenges faced in the field, the importance of continuous learning, and the impact of AI on cybersecurity jobs. Trent shares insights from his career journey, the significance of certifications, and the necessity of understanding both offensive and defensive security practices. The conversation also touches on the recent changes in certification names and the relevance of transferable skills in the tech industry. In this conversation, Trent W and Kyser Clark discuss various aspects of cybersecurity, focusing on the importance of continuous learning...2024-11-2739 minThe Hacker's Cache#22 Q&A: Cybercrime, Certifications, and Sacrifice in Cybersecurity CareersKyser Clark introduces a new Q&A format where he answers listener questions about cybersecurity, ethical hacking, and career development. He discusses the allure of cyber crime, the importance of networking certifications, and the sacrifices necessary to succeed in the field. Kyser emphasizes that while certifications can enhance career prospects, they are not the only path to success. He encourages listeners to manage their finances wisely and invest in their education to achieve their career goals.TakeawaysMany people turn to cyber crime due to desperation and thrill.The anonymity of the internet...2024-11-2039 minThe Hacker's Cache#21 Unpacking AppSec: Lessons and Insights with Jonathon FullerKyser Clark interviews Jonathan Fuller, a seasoned cybersecurity professional with a diverse background in various roles, including penetration testing and application security. Jonathan shares his journey from being a NOC engineer to founding Advict Security, emphasizing the importance of delivering comprehensive information to clients during penetration tests. He discusses the balance between his day job and entrepreneurial efforts, the differences between penetration testing and application security, and his contributions to the PNPT course. The conversation concludes with Jonathan offering insights and advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals and entrepreneurs.Connect with Jonathon Fuller on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin...2024-11-1338 minThe Hacker's Cache#20 What it REALLY Takes to Pass OSCP (and What They Don’t Tell You) ft. Trent MillerKyser Clark interviews Trent Miller, a cybersecurity professional with a diverse background in IT and security roles. They discuss Trent's career journey, the challenges of breaking into cybersecurity, the importance of networking, and insights on certifications like OSCP. Trent shares his experiences with the job market, the reality of skill shortages, and the significance of community engagement through groups like DC608. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration and continuous learning in the cybersecurity field.Connect with Trent Miller on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azureadtrent/TakeawaysNetworking is crucial for breaking...2024-11-0636 minThe Hacker's Cache#19 Beating the Odds in Cybersecurity: What It Really Takes ft. James ScottKyser Clark interviews James Scott, a cybersecurity professional with a diverse background in the military and digital forensics. They discuss James's journey into penetration testing, the challenges he faced in landing his first role, and the importance of networking and creating personal tools. The conversation also covers the significance of programming skills in cybersecurity, the value of digital forensics knowledge, and the impact of volunteering at conferences. James shares insights on pursuing a PhD in cybersecurity, focusing on weaponizing forensics and compliance training. The episode concludes with advice on persistence and standing out in a competitive field....2024-10-3035 minThe Hacker's Cache#18 16 Years in IT, Now a Fortune 100 Pentester: 0xD1CE Shares His JourneyKyser Clark interviews 0xD1CE, a seasoned penetration tester, who shares his extensive journey from IT to cybersecurity. 0xD1CE discusses his various roles, certifications, and the impact of COVID on his career shift. The conversation gets into the differences between consulting and internal roles, the value of certain cybersecurity certifications, and the emerging trends in AI testing. 0xD1CE also provides insights on how to succeed in obtaining the OSEP certification and emphasizes the importance of self-research in career development.Takeaways:0xD1CE transitioned from IT to cybersecurity due to a growing interest sparked by...2024-10-2330 minThe Hacker's Cache#17 Unpacking Bug Bounty Strategies with RootSploit: Zero Days, Recon, and VulnerabilitiesCybersecurity professionals Kyser Clark and Pranit Garud (RootSploit) discuss their experiences in the field. They cover topics such as bug bounty programs, the role of an offensive security engineer, and the differences between consulting and working for a Fortune 500 company. Pranit shares tips for getting started in bug bounty hunting and emphasizes the importance of understanding the business logic of a company. He also highlights the need for a mindset shift when transitioning from consulting to an internal security role.Connect with Pranit on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pranit-garud/Takeaways2024-10-1637 min
bigbandbash's podcastTwo Kays - Kay Kyser and Sammy KayeThis week I feature the two Kays, Sammy Kaye and Kay Kyser. Kay Kyser led a very successful swing orchestra although he didn't play an instrument. Sammy Kaye on the other hand, was a clarinetist and saxophonist but didn't play with his band. Both had unusual attractions: Kyser had "The College of Musical Knowledge" and Sammy had, "So You Want To Lead A Band?".2024-10-1559 minThe Hacker's Cache#16 Why Cybersecurity Is Stressful and How to Succeed with Opeyemi Kolawole (Hacking Insights)Kyser Clark interviews Opeyemi Kolawole, a full-time red teamer and cybersecurity professional. They discuss Opeyemi's background in biology and his transition into the cybersecurity field. Opeyemi shares his experience and insights on various certifications, including the Cyberwarfare Lab Certified Red Team Analyst (CPTA) and the importance of staying up to date in the field. They also discuss the benefits of building a personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube.Connect with Opeyemi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/opeyemi-v-kolawole/TakeawaysTransitioning from a different field into cybersecurity is possible with...2024-10-0938 minThe Hacker's Cache#15 From Zero to Hero: How Anyone Can Succeed in CybersecurityIn this solo episode, Kyser Clark discusses the accessibility of cybersecurity careers, emphasizing that anyone can enter the field regardless of their background. He shares his personal journey from blue-collar jobs to becoming a penetration tester, highlighting the importance of certifications and continuous learning. Kyser provides actionable steps for breaking into cybersecurity, including gaining tech experience, obtaining certifications, and effectively marketing oneself. He concludes by encouraging listeners to remain persistent and adaptable in their job search, reminding them that while anyone can enter the field, competition is fierce.TakeawaysAnyone can get into...2024-10-0234 minThe Hacker's Cache#14 Social Engineering Unleashed: DEF CON Insights from Jacob VillarrealKyser Clark interviews Jacob Villarreal, a penetration tester, about his journey into the cybersecurity field, his experiences at DEFCON, and various topics related to cybersecurity. Jacob shares his background, including his education, certifications, and transition from IT roles to penetration testing. The discussion covers the importance of networking, volunteering at conferences, and key cybersecurity issues such as biometrics, automation, boot camps, and the role of certifications. Jacob also offers insights into social engineering and advice for those interested in pursuing a cybersecurity career. Connect with Jacob Villarreal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-villarreal-utsa/T...2024-09-2534 minThe Hacker's Cache#13 Hacking Time: Real World Skills They Don't Teach You | Trent DarrowKyser Clark interviews Trent Darrow, a senior penetration tester and cyber protection team crew lead. They discuss Trent's background, certifications, and his role in building a red team. They also touch on ethical dilemmas in the industry, the effectiveness of certifications in preparing for real-world pen testing, and the importance of skills like time management and effective communication. In this conversation, Trent and Kyser discuss time management in cybersecurity exams, the challenges of scanning large networks, the role of a cyber warfare technician, the transition between civilian and military careers, strategies for preparing for the OSCP and OSEP exams...2024-09-1839 minThe Hacker's Cache#12 Why OSCP Might Not Be Worth It - A Surprising Take by Evan IsaacKyser Clark and Evan Isaac discuss their experiences and insights in cybersecurity. They cover topics such as certifications, content creation on LinkedIn, web hacking resources, job searching advice, and the importance of offensive and defensive cybersecurity skills.Connect with Evan Isaac on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-isaac/ TakeawaysCertifications like OSCP and eWPTX are valuable in cybersecurity, but other certifications like PMPT and CPTS are gaining recognition.Creating content on LinkedIn and other platforms can help build your personal brand and network in the cybersecurity industry.Web hacking resources like...2024-09-1137 minThe Hacker's Cache#11 Stay Creative Together: Insights from Nouha Ben BrahimKyser Clark interviews Nouha Ben Brahim, a Python programmer turned bug bounty hunter and founder of No Breach. They discuss Nouha's journey into cybersecurity, the most concerning cyber breach, common web hacking vulnerabilities, becoming a speaker at events, starting a cybersecurity company, and Nouha's podcast, The Hackers Line.Connect with Nouha Ben Brahim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nouha-ben-brahim-4b749b278/ TakeawaysTransitioning from programming to bug bounty hunting requires experimentation and learning the basics of hacking.Common web hacking vulnerabilities include GraphQL flaws, authentication issues, and IDOR.To...2024-09-0434 minThe Hacker's Cache#10 Breaking into Cybersecurity: Tips from a Pro ft. Jake MayhewIn this conversation, Kyser Clark interviews Jake Mayhew, a senior penetration tester, about his background and experiences in cybersecurity. They discuss the importance of internships, the value of creating a home lab, and the benefits of networking at local conferences and meetups. Jake also shares advice for job seekers, including the significance of standing out through proactive actions like writing reports and asking questions. Jake Mayhew and Kyser Clark discuss their favorite hacker movies and shows, as well as their experiences with different hacking certifications. They also explore the challenges of pursuing higher-level certifications and offer advice for those...2024-08-2839 min