I started out wrapping burritos at Chipotle, dreaming of something bigger but not quite sure where to go. Over time, that drive to learn and grow led me into cybersecurity—an industry where the stakes are high and the stories are endlessly fascinating. K.O.’s Launchpad is my way of opening the door for anyone curious about how to break in, level up, and find purpose in a field that’s shaping our digital future. In every episode, we’ll chat with experts, share practical strategies, and explor ...
…
continue reading

1
From Nuke Operator to Cybersecurity Expert: MIKE MCPHEE Shows What’s Possible
1:41:54
1:41:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:41:54In this episode, I sit down with Mike McPhee, a principal solutions engineer at Cisco, to explore his expansive career in cybersecurity. We delve into his early experiences in the US Navy, his journey through multiple degrees and certifications, including the prestigious GIAC Security Expert, and the lessons he learned from challenging roles in the…
…
continue reading

1
SIMEON KAKPOVI's on a Mission to Make Cybersecurity Learning Free Through KC7's Game-based Education
1:28:52
1:28:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:28:52In this episode of K.O.'s Launchpad: An Infosec Podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Simeon Kakpovi, the founder of the KC7 Foundation and a senior threat intelligence analyst at Microsoft. We discuss his transition from a network defender at Lockheed Martin to shaping a more inclusive future in cybersecurity through his nonprofit organiz…
…
continue reading

1
JIBBY SAETANG’s Unconventional Path: From Watchmaker to Cybersecurity Pro in 1 Year (No IT Background or Certifications Needed)
1:14:56
1:14:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:14:56In this episode of K.O.'s Launchpad, we explore the extraordinary journey of Jibby Saetang, who transitioned from repairing watches to becoming a security researcher on Microsoft's GHOST team. Jibby shares his path from working in a family jewelry business to joining the cybersecurity industry, with no formal IT background. We delve into his experi…
…
continue reading