The Cybersecurity Recruiter talks to Ed Hagopian, Vice President of Product Security, Cream City Cyber
The Cyber Security Recruiter PodcastShow Notes
From System Admin to VP of Product Security: Ed Hagopian's Journey in Cybersecurity
In this episode of the Cybersecurity Recruiter podcast, Thomas welcomes guest Ed Hagopian, VP of Product Security at Cream City Cyber.
Ed shares his career trajectory from a CIS admin to a leading role, emphasizing a hands-on approach, relentless curiosity, and the importance of adaptability in the fast-evolving tech landscape. He discusses his early interest in computers, driven by his father's encouragement, and how this passion led to pivotal roles at North Western Mutual, Microsoft, and Dell.
The conversation highlights the value of building strong teams, continuous learning, and positive mindset in overcoming career challenges and embracing technological advancements like AI and machine learning.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:28 Ed's Career Journey 02:52 Early Passion for Computers 05:20 Challenges and Setbacks 10:10 AI and Machine Learning Insights 13:14 The Future of AI and Security 15:31 Identity Proofing and Trust 21:16 AI in Music and Media 21:54 AI in Cybersecurity: Detection and Defense 22:21 The Rise of AI in Music 22:33 Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals 23:17 The Importance of Hands-On Learning 24:09 Mentorship and Skill Development 26:05 Implementing a Risk Assessment Program 27:34 The Value of Demonstrable Proficiency 28:15 Adapting to Technological Changes 32:01 The Power of Positive Attitude 36:42 Recommended Books and Continuous Learning 41:28 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Ed suggested:
Never Split the Difference Christopher Voss and Tahl Raz
More from The Cyber Security Recruiter Podcast
Recruiting in a whiplash market: Beth Wolfe on fraud, pay corrections, and building real connections Thomas chats with Beth Wolfe, Senior Director of Recruiting at Daxko, about today’s volatile hiring market, candidate trust issues, and recruiter best practices.
Gary Alterson on agentic SOCs, AI spend control, and building Sovereign AI
Protecting Student Data, Leading Security Teams, and Keeping Up With AI: Jeff Bailey on Security Leadership
Michael Greenlaw on AI, DevSecOps, and FedRAMP Automation: Speed, Risks, and the Need for Fundamentals
00:00 Welcome and introductions 00:39 Lindsay career snapshot 01:41 Threat intel at Human 02:37 New book launch 03:33 Malware needs context 04:42 Spotting real people online 08:25 AI as attack amplifier 09:45 Phishing at scale 11:50 Democratized hacking risks 15:18 Path to VP leadership 20:00 AI proof risk communication 21:53 Time boxing MIT MBA grind 23:13 Writing a book discipline 23:49 Small wins and purpose 25:15 Book writing deepens mastery 26:39 Communication skills through practice 29:15 Behind the scenes struggles 32:02 Mentors versus sponsors 34:41 Security community collaboration 35:48 Whats next and book teaser 37:46 Boat go faster mantra 39:49 Final thanks and wrap up