In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim broadcast from InfoSec World 2025, sharing lively discussions on identity management, AI security, and identity's evolving role in information security. They are joined by Ross Young and G Mark Hardy, co-hosts of the CISO Tradecraft podcast, who share their journeys into cybersecurity, illuminating how identity intersects with cybersecurity topics like deep fakes, AI implications, and non-human identities. The conversation also covers practical advice for securing budget approvals for identity projects and speculations on the role of AI in cybersecurity's future. The episode wraps up with each guest sharing personal ideas for potential new podcast ventures.

The CISO Tradecraft podcast: CISOTradecraft.com

Connect with Ross: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrrossyoung/

Connect with G Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmarkhardy/

Connect with us on LinkedIn:

Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/

Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/

Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:16 Live from InfoSec World 2025

00:52 Shoutouts and Day Jobs

01:37 Meeting Ross and G Mark from the CISO Tradecraft podcast

02:22 Ross's Journey into Cybersecurity

04:24 G Mark's Cybersecurity Career Path

07:44 Top Concerns for CISOs Today

09:53 The Role of Identity in Cybersecurity

16:18 Challenges and Trends in Identity Management

24:33 Pitching Identity Projects to CISOs

32:21 The Role of AI in Automating SOC Operations

33:23 AI's Impact on Developer Efficiency

35:48 The Future of AI-Assisted Coding

37:42 Challenges and Opportunities in AI and Cybersecurity

39:46 The Importance of Human Expertise in AI Development

48:17 The Role of Identity in Information Security

49:44 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft Podcast

55:24 Podcasting Tips and Personal Interests

01:00:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Keywords:

Identity at the Center, IDAC, CISO Tradecraft, InfoSec World 2025, cybersecurity leadership, identity security, IAM, AI security, Jeff Steadman, Jim McDonald, Ross Young, G. Mark Hardy, InfoSec, CISOs, cyber career development, non-human identity, deepfakes, security automation