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DEF CON is more than just a hacking conference—it’s a community. In this episode, host AJ Nash sits down with Ada Zebra, a longtime goon and leader behind DEF CON Hotline, a resource dedicated to handling security incidents, harassment reports, and crisis situations at the event. Ada shares her journey from first-time attendee to a key figure in DEF CON’s security efforts, shedding light on the history and evolution of the hotline.

She discusses how the hotline was born out of necessity after an incident in 2017, when leadership realized DEF CON needed a dedicated space for attendees to report issues safely. Since its launch in 2018, the hotline has grown every year, bringing in highly trained volunteers to assist in complex situations ranging from restraining orders to personal safety concerns.

AJ and Ada also explore the hotline’s relationship with DEF CON’s security team, how volunteers are selected and trained, and why fostering an inclusive environment matters in the hacker community. If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at one of the world’s largest hacker gatherings, this episode offers an inside look at the challenges, responsibilities, and impact of the DEF CON Hotline.

In this episode of Unspoken Security, host AJ Nash sits down with intelligence and security expert Brian Kime to explore the often misunderstood world of industry analysts. With years of experience at Forrester, Brian pulls back the curtain on how analysts conduct research, engage with vendors, and influence the cybersecurity landscape. Together, they address the widespread belief that vendor evaluations are purely “pay to play” and explain why this assumption misses the mark.

Brian shares insights into the rigorous methodologies analysts use, the importance of vendor neutrality, and how advisory services help enterprises make informed decisions. He highlights how analysts serve as a bridge between security leaders and vendors, often guiding product development and procurement strategies. The discussion also touches on the value of contributing to analyst research, even for smaller vendors, and how to effectively build relationships with analysts.

Whether you're a vendor aiming to get noticed or a CISO navigating technology decisions, this episode offers valuable takeaways on leveraging industry analysts for growth and strategic alignment.

In this episode of Unspoken Security, AJ Nash sits down with Ryan Cloutier, CEO of ScareBear Industries, to discuss the future of artificial intelligence. Ryan explains the evolution of AI, from its origins with Alan Turing to today's generative AI and large language models. He highlights the importance of understanding that AI, at its core, is mathematics. Ryan emphasizes the need for careful consideration of ethics and societal impact as AI continues to develop.

Ryan discusses both the exciting potential and the inherent risks of AI. He explores the potential for misuse and the need for careful governance. He also highlights positive use cases, such as AI companions for the elderly and advancements in medicine. Ryan raises concerns about job displacement and the potential transfer of power from humans to machines.

Ryan encourages listeners to become involved in their local AI communities and promote the safe and ethical development of this transformative technology. He stresses the importance of critical thinking and kindness in navigating the future of AI. He leaves listeners with a call to action: do a random act of kindness daily.

In this episode of Unspoken Security, host A.J. Nash sits down with Jeff Daisley, Principal Security Intelligence Engineer at Comcast, to explore the multifaceted world of executive protection. Together, they unpack the growing convergence of physical and cyber threats facing high-value individuals, including executives, public figures, and their families. From cyberattacks and social engineering to physical security breaches, Jeff emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to safeguarding these individuals in today’s volatile landscape.

Jeff shares actionable insights into building robust executive protection programs, highlighting the need for proactive measures like cyber hygiene, travel assessments, and device security. He underscores the role of trust and collaboration in integrating protective strategies that span personal and professional lives, ensuring the safety of not only the executives but also their inner circles.

The conversation also delves into real-world examples, illustrating how vulnerabilities in seemingly small areas—like smart home technologies or insider threats—can lead to significant risks. Whether you’re an industry expert or simply security-conscious, this episode offers valuable perspectives on bridging the gap between digital and physical security in a rapidly evolving world.