Security Clearance Careers Podcast

Interested in a career in cybersecurity, AI, data science, or national security? In this episode of ClearedCast, we sit down with Meagan Zinnert, Program Coordinator for the Department of Information Systems at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), to discuss how today's students are preparing for tomorrow's mission-critical careers.We cover:The difference between information systems, computer science, and cybersecurityWhy information systems professionals are critical to national security missionsThe technical and soft skills employers are looking for todayAI's impact on higher education and the future workforceInternships, career pathways, and opportunities in the cleared industryHow UMBC is adapting its curriculum to keep pace with emerging technologiesWhether you're a student exploring career options, a professional considering graduate school, or an employer interested in the future cleared workforce, this conversation offers valuable insights into where technology—and national security hiring—is headed.🔗 Learn more about UMBC's Information Systems programs: https://informationsystems.umbc.edu/

The federal personnel vetting landscape is evolving—and understanding the changes has never been more important. In this episode of Security Clearance in Security, host Lindy Kyzer is joined by former OPM suitability expert Bill Pedersen to unpack the biggest updates to federal suitability regulations, Trusted Workforce 2.0, and continuous vetting.They explain how OPM’s reforms are creating greater consistency across agencies, what post-appointment suitability actions mean for federal employees, how new reporting capabilities could improve government-wide visibility, and why understanding your position designation has become increasingly important. Whether you’re a federal employee, contractor, facility security officer, or security clearance holder, this conversation breaks down complex policy changes into practical insights you can use to better navigate today’s personnel vetting environment.

Ask for more time. There is generally flexibility on that first due date. Investigate yourself! Pull your credit report. Check your social media. Corroborate your own information. Tune in to this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity where Elisabeth and Lindy talk about tips for filling out the SF-86.

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, it's a fitting time to look back at how we've protected the nation's most valuable asset: information.Long before security clearances, SCIFs, and cyber defense, there were trusted patriots carrying handwritten messages, writing in invisible ink, and operating spy rings behind enemy lines. George Washington understood that intelligence could be just as powerful as military force, relying on networks like the Culper Spy Ring to gather critical information during the Revolutionary War.On this episode of the Security Clearance Careers Podcast, Jill Hamilton, Director of Content at ClearanceJobs, joins us to explore 250 years of keeping secrets—from the birth of American intelligence to the future of AI, quantum computing, and the next generation of national security careers. As we celebrate America's past, we'll also look ahead at what the next 250 years of protecting the mission may hold.A Brief History of the U.S. Personnel Security Program

How do you build a strong professional reputation when much of your work happens behind the scenes? Lindy Kyzer sat down with Shana Cosgrove, Founder and CEO of Nyla Technology Solutions, about leadership, entrepreneurship, and building a lasting brand in the national security community.Whether you're early in your career or leading teams of your own, this conversation offers practical advice for professionals looking to grow their careers while making an impact in the cleared community.

Walking into a career fair or networking event can feel intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. The candidates who leave with meaningful connections aren't always the loudest in the room—they're the ones who come prepared, ask thoughtful questions, and focus on building relationships.Before you attend your next event, do a little homework. Research the companies you'll meet, have a brief introduction ready, and think of a few questions you'd genuinely like to ask. During conversations, listen more than you talk, be respectful of everyone's time, and remember that networking isn't about collecting business cards—it's about creating connections that last beyond the event.Listen to our latest ClearanceJobs Podcast featuring Events Manager Danielle Pickus as we break down networking do's and don'ts, share stories from past career events, and offer practical tips to help you make the most of your next opportunity.

Quantum technology is no longer just the stuff of science fiction. From cybersecurity and advanced sensing to communications and navigation, quantum innovations are rapidly moving from the laboratory into real-world applications that could reshape both industry and national security. On a recent episode of the ClearanceJobs podcast, we sat down with Chris Muldrow, Executive Director of the Colorado Quantum Incubator (COQI), to discuss the evolution of quantum technology, where the industry is headed, and what it all means for the cleared workforce.

What happens when a true crime podcaster and two national security professionals team up to explore espionage, insider threats, terrorism, and military mysteries?In this episode of ClearedCast, Lindy Kyzer sits down with ClearanceJobs' Phoebe Wells and Katie Helbling to discuss the origins of The Secret Squirrel Files, a podcast that blends true crime storytelling with real-world lessons for the cleared community. From Aldrich Ames and Operation Bojinka to the Oklahoma City bombing and unsolved military cases, they discuss how history, security policy, and storytelling intersect—and why these cases still matter today.