Security Clearance Careers Podcast

The security clearance polygraph continues to generate a lot of questions from security clearance applicants. Jill Hamilton, senior editor at ClearanceJobs comes on the show to discuss the security clearance polygraph process and a recent series of articles that discussed the security clearance polygraph.

ClearanceJobs Connect is now less than ONE MONTH away! The excitement is high and anticipation is building for the ONLY conference focused on cleared recruiting and security clearance process and policy on Oct. 3, at the Hyatt Regency in Reston, V.A.Hear all about it on this week's episode and click the link to register: https://about.clearancejobs.com/employers/events/clearancejobs-connect-2024

Applying for a security clearance is stressful. When you finally get in front of a background investigator, some applicants feel the pressure to impress that person and hopefully improve their clearance chances. Unfortunately, trying to butter up to your investigator won't make your process of getting a clearance any easier - and it could just make it more awkward.

Although the September 11 terrorist attacks took place more than twenty years ago, their aftermath and impact are still being felt today. Yet few Americans are aware of how 9/11 continues to affect their lives, U.S. domestic and foreign policy, and the way the world views our country now. In his new book. CREATING AND FAILING THE 9/11 GENERATION (Routledge Press; July 2024), historian Matthew Warshauer presents a fascinating assessment of what he calls “the most momentous event in history since World War II,” framing his study on 9/11’s sustained impact on America’s youth. He joins the Security Clearance Careers Podcast to discuss.

Jamie Jones Miller, CEO and Regional Dean of Northeastern University Arlington joined us on the latest episode of the Security Clearance Careers Podcast, ClearedCast. With a rich background in the intelligence community and defense sector, Jamie is now channeling her expertise to cultivate the next generation of national security professionals. Browse programs at Northeastern University Arlington.Partner with Northeastern University Arlington.

Security clearance holders have self reporting requirements, but they also have requirements to report issues about their coworkers or fellow security clearance holders. Some think that sounds like the government getting into office gossip. Sean Bigley and Lindy Kyzer discuss the self reporting requirements and why they're a crucial part of the security clearance process.

The federal hiring process can be discouraging for all parties. Applicants often struggle with the black hole and long delays. Hiring managers have to deal with a host of regulatory and policy requirements that affect the hiring process. Katherine Kuzminski, Deputy Director of Studies and Program Director, Military, Veterans & Society at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), joins the show to discuss the civilian job search process and a 2023 report, The Future of National Security for Civilians.  

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and mental health are critical issues that affect many veterans and the veteran suicide rate. The experiences and environments faced during military service can lead to enduring psychological impacts that require attention and care.Greg VanDyne is a former Special Forces Medical Sergeant (18D) who served with 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). He co-founded the Vetrepreneur Collective which is a community that takes the skills the military diligently taught veterans and gives a step-by-step guide to start your own company through Mentorship, coaching, guidance, and advice all through a like minded veteran community. Greg believes “the military should be throwing the kitchen sink at reducing soldier suicide”, making Suicide Safety Plans an annual requirement for the military retirement and transition process. He joins the Security Clearance Careers Podcast to discuss his own transition and why destigmatizing mental health is so important to him.PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. For veterans, these events may include combat, military sexual trauma, or other life-threatening situations. Symptoms of PTSD can include:Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, distressing memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event.Avoidance: Steering clear of places, activities, or people that remind them of the trauma.Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, or difficulty maintaining close relationships.Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Being easily startled, having trouble sleeping, or experiencing irritability and anger.Addressing mental health is vital for veterans to lead fulfilling lives post-service. Mental health care can involve:Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are effective treatments for PTSD.Medication: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms.Support Groups: Connecting with peers who have similar experiences can provide emotional support and a sense of community.Self-Care: Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation can improve overall well-being.Veterans may face unique challenges in seeking mental health care:Stigma: There can be a stigma associated with seeking help, which may prevent veterans from accessing necessary services.Access to Care: Navigating the VA healthcare system or finding mental health professionals who understand military culture can be difficult.Transition to Civilian Life: Adjusting to civilian life can be stressful and may exacerbate mental health issues.Supporting veterans in their mental health journey involves:Awareness and Education: Promoting understanding of PTSD and mental health issues among the public and within the veteran community.Access to Resources: Ensuring veterans have information on and access to mental health services, both through the VA and private providers.Community Support: Encouraging community programs and initiatives that support veterans and their families.