The Wake UP X Solutions - Securing Tomorrow, Empowering Today with Efren L. Salazar

This one is different.No studio. No prep. Just real people, real stories, and a microphone open to anyone willing to share their journey.WakeUpX host Efren Salazar showed up to the ISACA Sacramento Appreciation Day and did what he does best — started conversations that needed to be heard. He opened by sharing his own story. Growing up in West Sacramento in the 1990s surrounded by gangs. Isolated. No siblings. Discouraged in school. The friends who pushed him toward computers instead of the streets. The reality check that changed everything. And the 10X Rule that turned a mindset shift into a movement — tattooed on his arm as a daily reminder to never settle for the original goal.Then he handed the mic to eight people who are proof that the path into cybersecurity looks nothing like what you expect.Irene Shaju started in astrophysics, pivoted to MIS and business analytics, and chose cybersecurity because of a clear-eyed view of where AI is heading. It's either controlled by the people who understand it — or it controls everyone else. She chose to understand it.Harmanjot Singh was born in India, came to the US during COVID, earned the Cyber Corps Scholarship for Service, holds a Security+ and ISC2 certification, and had a US Department of Justice interview for a digital investigation analyst position the same week this was recorded.Jared Holloway grew up as a former foster youth, interned at Golden 1 headquarters, and is finishing his MIS degree at Sac State while building toward a career that bridges cybersecurity and project management. Resilience isn't a word he uses lightly — it's how he got here.Zankar Vaishnav transferred from Sierra College, joined ISACA his very first semester at Sac State, and is working toward his CompTIA Security+ after being pulled into the defensive side of cybersecurity by managers who let him shadow their work behind the scenes.Kevin Bali is the student chapter president of ISACA at Sacramento State and president of the MIS Association. He's studying business administration, MIS, business analytics, AI management, and minoring in criminal justice — all in pursuit of one goal. Digital forensics. Bringing justice to families and making communities safer through technology. He said something in this episode that stopped everything in its tracks."The job can be really great. The duties can be really great. But if it's not the people you work with that you enjoy — then it's for nothing."Solomon Lee moved from Chicago to Sacramento six years ago. He chased the CS six-figure dream, got rejected by big tech over and over, pivoted to cybersecurity, and never stopped grinding. He's building a SIEM lab on Azure, preparing for his CCNA, working a job that has nothing to do with cyber, and studying and labbing every single day anyway.Jesse Telles came from software engineering and found his direction in cybersecurity through his love of architecture and system design. His focus now is supply chain security — the vulnerabilities that get baked into systems when AI automates supply chain creation at scale, and the knock-on effects that ripple across everything connected. Companies like Stryker are finding out in real time how costly those vulnerabilities can be.Eight stories. Eight completely different paths. One community holding them all together.This episode is for anyone who has ever felt like they started too late, switched directions too many times, or didn't fit the traditional mold of a tech professional. These people are proof that there is no single path. There is just the decision to start — and the drive to keep going.▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1axM1mSsAWo🌐 Full episodes: www.wakeupxpodcast.comSpecial thanks to videographer Alvin Jue 🎥Huge thank you to ISACA Sacramento for making this event possible 🙏Follow the guests on LinkedIn:Kevin Bali • Solomon Lee • Irene Shaju • Zankar Vaishnav • Jarred Holloway • Harmanjot Singh • Ethan Ng • Jesse Telles

💡 What happens when 20 years of experience meets AI? You build a cybersecurity platform from scratch — and change your family's legacy forever.In this powerful episode of The Wake Up X Solutions Podcast, Efren sits down with Jorge Avila of Paleo Tech Group to talk about how Jorge went from working a traditional job to building his own cybersecurity software platform — powered by AI and driven by a legacy that started with migrant farm workers in Texas. 🌾➡️💻This is not just a business story. This is a story about roots, hustle, and what's possible when you bet on yourself.🔥 What you'll learn in this episode:✅ How Jorge and his partner used 20 years of knowledge to build an AI-powered cybersecurity platform✅ Why COVID was the turning point that pushed Jorge into entrepreneurship✅ The difference between the business mindset and the technical mindset in cybersecurity✅ How Jorge's dad — a migrant farm worker always hustling across Utah, Idaho & California — inspired his entrepreneurial drive✅ How AI is being used to run powerful platforms on a thin client✅ What it really takes to go from employee to founder and make it grow💬 Jorge's story is proof: Your background is not a barrier. It is your fuel. Whether your family picked crops or built companies — that hustle lives in you.👇 Connect with Jorge Avila:🌐 paleotechgroup.com💼 LinkedIn: Search Jorge Avila — Paleo Tech Group🎙️ Listen on your favorite platform:🟢 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gNNknZKj▶️ YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gugPZpFK🎵 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-x-securing-tomorrow-empowering-today-with/id1792821643⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:00 Building a cybersecurity platform with AI04:00 How 20 years of experience became their foundation07:00 Jorge's background — business side vs technical side10:00 How COVID changed everything and sparked entrepreneurship13:00 Building a company you own and can grow16:00 Jorge's dad — a migrant farm worker who never stopped hustling19:00 How family roots fuel the entrepreneurial drive22:00 Where to find Jorge and Paleo Tech Group📲 Follow The Wake Up X Solutions:Subscribe for weekly episodes on entrepreneurship, tech, AI, cybersecurity, and empowering the Latino community to build wealth and freedom.#LatinoEntrepreneur #Cybersecurity #AIForBusiness #WakeUpXSolutions #PaleoTechGroup #MigrantStory #LatinoPower #StartupStory #COVID19Entrepreneurship #BuildWithAI #FamilyLegacy #Podcast2025 #TechFounder

Is your organization’s security architecture prepared for the era of AI-driven threats? In this episode of the Wake Up X Solutions Podcast, host Efren Salazar sits down with Larry Switzer, Head of North American Sales at Ziggiz, to dissect the critical flaws in legacy cybersecurity models and explore the future of cyber defense.As the cyber landscape evolves, traditional Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems are struggling to keep pace with petabyte-scale data ingestion and real-time threat detection. Larry explains how Ziggiz, a DARPA-funded innovator, is fundamentally rethinking security by building a 'cyber data plane' on Databricks. This shift from search-based legacy tools to advanced analytics allows for 25x greater efficiency and deeper insights, ensuring that security teams aren't just reacting to incidents, but proactively defending their infrastructure.

🚫 "I don't have the resources." That's not a reason. That's an excuse.Let me say that louder for the people in the back. 👇We're all limited on technology, knowledge, and resources at some point. But guess what? That has NEVER been the real barrier.Right now, TODAY you have:📌 LinkedIn to connect with literally anyone in your industry📌 ChatGPT & AI tools to learn ANYTHING, for free📌 Cybersecurity 30,000+ open jobs in California ALONE 🤯📌 AI skills that fast-track you into high-paying careers📌 Entrepreneurship waiting on the other side of each step you takeThe path isn't a giant leap. It's steps.Learn → Build knowledge → Grow your network → Level up → Repeat.And here's something nobody talks about enough:💡 Entrepreneurship might actually be EASIER than being an employee.Why? Because as an employee you have to sell yourself over and over again.As an entrepreneur? You build something that speaks for itself.So if you're sitting on the sidelines waiting for the "right moment" or the "right resources"…🎯 The resources are already here. The question is, are YOU showing up?Reach out. Connect. Hustle. Get out there and DO it. 💪This conversation came from an incredible episode on The Wake UP X Solutions with my guest Jorge Avila, MS Cyber, PMI-ACP/PMP, CMS, and ITILv4 of paleotechgroup.com, connect with him on LinkedIn too.🎙️ Listen to the full episode here:🟢 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gNNknZKj▶️ YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gugPZpFK🎵 Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gv7reiuvDrop a 🙋 below if you're taking that next step, I want to hear where you're headed!hashtag#Entrepreneurship hashtag#Cybersecurity hashtag#AISkills hashtag#NoExcuses hashtag#LinkedInCommunity hashtag#TheWakeUpXSolutions hashtag#LatinoPower hashtag#LevelUp hashtag#CareerGrowth hashtag#TechJobs hashtag#Hustle hashtag#Podcast

What does it really take to go from entry-level help desk to network architect and cybersecurity expert — without a four-year degree?In this episode, we sit down with Devin, a seasoned network architect and CISSP-certified cybersecurity professional, who shares the unfiltered story of how he built a 20-year career in IT from the ground up — starting with a high school electronics and robotics academy and a scrappy student internship with a school district.Devin breaks down:• Why he turned down higher-paying job offers to chase upward mobility• The power of learning routing, networking, and cybersecurity from the bottom up• How working help desk and desktop support gave him a career advantage most senior engineers don't have• The real reason the best cybersecurity engineers come from a networking background• How mentorship, curiosity, and staying after hours (for free) accelerated his growth• His journey to earning SSCP, CISSP, and CCSP certifications — and what actually makes those exams hard• What zero trust architecture and software-defined networking look like in the real world• Why visualization, empathy, and technical skill are the three pillars of a great network architectWhether you're trying to break into IT, level up in cybersecurity, or just want a raw, honest conversation about building a tech career without shortcuts — this episode is for you.🎙️ No fluff. No gatekeeping. Just real talk from someone who lived it.Subscribe so you never miss an episode.#ITCareer #NetworkArchitect #Cybersecurity #CISSP #HelpDesk #TechCareer #Networking #ZeroTrust #CCNA #CareerGrowth #ITAdvice #BGP #CyberSecurity101 #BreakIntoIT

💪 Entrepreneurs aren't fearless. They're just built different — they feel the fear and do it anyway.In this episode of The Wake Up X Solutions Podcast, Efren sits down with Jorge Avila of Paleo Tech Group to break down one of the biggest questions in business:What separates entrepreneurs from people who stay on the traditional path?The answer? Tenacity. Resilience. And a community that's been told NO so many times — it just doesn't land anymore. 🚀🔥 What you'll learn in this episode:✅ The real mindset difference between entrepreneurs and traditional employees✅ Why Latinos are uniquely built for entrepreneurship✅ How hearing "no" over and over actually becomes your greatest strength✅ Why showing up — even when scared — is the whole game✅ How Jorge Avila and Paleo Tech Group can help YOU get started💬 Jorge's message: Whether he can help you directly or connect you to someone who can — he will get you started. That's the community mindset in action.👇 Connect with Jorge Avila:🌐 paleotechgroup.com💼 LinkedIn: Search Jorge Avila — Paleo Tech Group🎙️ Listen on your favorite platform:🟢 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gNNknZKj▶️ YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gugPZpFK🎵 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-x-securing-tomorrow-empowering-today-with/id1792821643⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:00 Entrepreneurship vs the traditional path03:30 Entrepreneurs don't show fear — they just move06:00 Why Latinos have built-in tenacity09:00 Hearing NO and still pushing forward12:00 How Jorge Avila can help you get started14:00 Where to find Jorge and Paleo Tech Group📲 Follow The Wake Up X Solutions:Subscribe for weekly episodes on entrepreneurship, tech, AI, cybersecurity, and empowering the Latino community to build wealth and freedom.#LatinoEntrepreneur #Entrepreneurship #LatinoPower #WakeUpXSolutions #PaleoTechGroup #BusinessMindset #Tenacity #StartYourBusiness #LatinoInBusiness #NeverGiveUp #Podcast2025 #HearNoKeepGoing

🤖 Employers are already expecting 140 hours of work output from a 40 hour week — thanks to AI. Is your business ready?In this episode of The Wake Up X Solutions Podcast, recorded LIVE at RSA Conference 2025, Efren and Jorge Avila of Paleo Tech Group break down why AI is no longer optional for small businesses — and why ignoring it could cost you everything.This isn't just a buzzword. This is the biggest productivity shift in business history. 🚀🔥 What you'll learn in this episode:✅ Why employers now expect 140 hours of work output in a 40 hour week✅ Why AI is the #1 tool for entrepreneurs and small business owners right now✅ The hidden danger of implementing AI without securing your data first✅ How small businesses are losing data by skipping cybersecurity when adopting AI✅ Why if you're not using AI tools yet — you're already falling behind⚠️ Big warning for small business owners: Bringing in AI tools without securing your data first is a serious risk. Before you implement anything — make sure whoever is building it is locking it down. Your business depends on it.💬 Bottom line from Jorge: AI is not a buzzword for entrepreneurs. It is THE tool that will separate businesses that thrive from businesses that get left behind.👇 Connect with Jorge Avila:🌐 paleotechgroup.com💼 LinkedIn: Search Jorge Avila — Paleo Tech Group🎙️ Listen on your favorite platform:🟢 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gNNknZKj▶️ YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gugPZpFK🎵 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-x-securing-tomorrow-empowering-today-with/id1792821643⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:00 The 140 hour work output expectation explained04:00 Why AI tools are a no-brainer for business06:30 The danger of AI without cybersecurity09:00 What small businesses are getting wrong with AI12:00 Why AI is the biggest tool for entrepreneurs right now15:00 How to connect with Jorge and Paleo Tech Group📲 Follow The Wake Up X Solutions:Subscribe for weekly episodes on entrepreneurship, tech, AI, cybersecurity, and empowering the Latino community to build wealth and freedom.#AIForBusiness #SmallBusiness #AITools #Cybersecurity #RSAConference #WakeUpXSolutions #PaleoTechGroup #Entrepreneurship #AIProductivity #BusinessGrowth #LatinoBusiness #Podcast2025 #FutureOfWork

At RSA Conference 2026 in San Francisco, I sat down with Jorge Avila, co-founder of Paleo Tech Group, to talk about his journey from migrant farm worker roots in Texas to building an AI and cybersecurity startup. Jorge shares how COVID sparked his career change, why he's on a mission to close the digital divide for Latino and underserved communities, and how AI can fast-track anyone into entrepreneurship — step by step.🔑 In this episode we cover:How Jorge transitioned from the California Department of Technology to startup founderWhy AI is the biggest opportunity of our generation (and how to use it TODAY)The digital divide affecting Latino communities — and how Paleo Tech Group is fixing itCybersecurity tips for small businesses using AI toolsCareer advice for breaking into cybersecurity (30,000+ open jobs in California!)The power of community — the theme of RSA 2026🌐 Connect with Jorge Avila & Paleo Tech Group:Website: paleotechgroup.comLinkedIn: Search Jorge Avila📲 Connect with Efren Salazar:LinkedIn: Wake Up X Solutions Podcast#RSA2026 #Cybersecurity #AItools #LatinoEntrepreneur #PaleoTechGroup #WakeUpXSolutions #ArtificialIntelligence #DigitalDivide #Entrepreneurship #CybersecurityCareers #LatinoCommunity #AIforBusiness #SmallBusiness #StartupLife

🤖 AI is the business advisor you never knew you had — and it's FREE.In this episode of The Wake Up X Solutions Podcast, Efren sits down with Jorge Avila of Paleo Tech Group to talk about how AI is completely changing the game for entrepreneurs — especially in the Latino community.If you've ever thought about starting a business but didn't know where to begin, this episode is for YOU. 🚀🔥 What you'll learn in this episode:✅ How to use AI as a step-by-step business advisor✅ Why people are scared of AI — and why entrepreneurs think differently✅ How to find your strengths and let AI map out your path✅ Why AI will fast forward your business like nothing else✅ How Paleo Tech Group is training Latinos to use AI for business success💬 Jorge's advice? Just go for it. Ask AI what you're good at. Tell it your goals. Let it give you the roadmap. Then take the next step.The knowledge is already at your fingertips. All you have to do is ask.👇 Connect with Jorge Avila:🌐 paleotechgroup.com💼 LinkedIn: Search Jorge Avila — Paleo Tech Group🎙️ Listen on your favorite platform:🟢 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gNNknZKj▶️ YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gugPZpFK🎵 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-x-securing-tomorrow-empowering-today-with/id1792821643⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:00 Why people are scared of AI03:00 How to use AI as your business advisor06:00 Finding your strengths with AI09:00 How Paleo Tech Group trains Latinos in AI12:00 The future of AI for entrepreneurship📲 Follow The Wake Up X Solutions:Subscribe for weekly episodes on entrepreneurship, tech, AI, and empowering the Latino community to build wealth and freedom.#AI #Entrepreneurship #HowToStartABusiness #AIForBusiness #LatinoEntrepreneur #WakeUpXSolutions #PaleoTechGroup #BusinessTips #AITools #ChatGPT #LatinoBusiness #StartupAdvice #Podcast2025

🎙️ Just wrapped an amazing conversation at RSA Conference with Ryan Doctor!We talked about:🔐 Breaking into cybersecurity from IT operations🤝 The power of networking (this is HUGE)🤖 How AI continues to dominate the cybersecurity space📍 And whether RSA is worth attending for beginnersOne thing that really stood out:“Networking has opened up so many opportunities, from learning to interviews.”If you're trying to break into cybersecurity, don’t overcomplicate it:Start with community. Start with conversations. Start showing up.Events like RSA, meetups like ISC2 Sacramento Chapter & ISACA Sacramento, they matter more than you think.Appreciate everyone who pulled up last minute to support The Wake UP X Solutions 🙌hashtag#Cybersecurity hashtag#Networking hashtag#RSAC hashtag#CareerGrowth hashtag#InfoSec hashtag#TechCareers hashtag#WakeUPX hashtag#Podcast

In this episode of the Wake Up X Solutions Podcast, Efren Salazar sits down with Michael Demetrius from P0 Security at RSA Conference 2026.We dive into how Identity Access Management (IAM) is evolving with AI, cloud environments, and non-human identities.💡 What you’ll learn:How to manage access across cloud, on-prem, and AI agentsWhy zero standing privilege is becoming essentialHow to reduce risk by understanding identity access visibilityThe importance of developer-friendly security workflowsHow AI is impacting cybersecurity and developmentMichael also shares insights on:🤖 Using AI tools like Claude & Cursor in development🌐 The importance of networking and community📈 Advice for breaking into cybersecurity and techIf you're in cybersecurity, cloud, or software development, this episode is packed with real-world insights.Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gNNknZKjYouTube: https://lnkd.in/gugPZpFKApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-x-securing-tomorrow-empowering-today-with/id1792821643Like, Subscribe, and Follow for more cybersecurity interviews and insights.#CyberSecurity #CloudSecurity #IAM #ZeroTrust #AI #Developers #TechPodcast #InfoSec #CyberCareers #Networking #SecurityEngineering🎧 Listen & Watch:🔔 Don’t forget:🏷️ Hashtags:

In this episode of the *Wake Up X Solutions Podcast*, I sit down with **Greg McCord**, CISO at Lightcast and founder of Keystone Advisory, to break down what cybersecurity really looks like for startups and growing businesses.We dive into:Why startups should think about security from the very beginningWhat a *fractional CISO* is and how it helps companies scale securelyThe biggest cybersecurity challenges companies still haven’t solvedHow AI is changing the security landscape (and why it’s still hackable)Greg’s journey from no tech background to becoming a CISOReal advice for anyone trying to break into cybersecurityGreg also shares powerful insights on leadership, networking, and how to align security with business goals, something every future CISO needs to understand.If you're looking to get into cybersecurity, grow into leadership, or understand how security impacts business and startups, this is a must-watch.📌 Connect with Greg McCord on LinkedIn to continue the conversation📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more cybersecurity interviews and insights---#Cybersecurity #CISO #StartupSecurity #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Infosec #TechCareers #CyberSecurityCareer #Leadership #Networking #RSAConference #RSAC #Podcast #TechPodcast #SecurityLeadership #FutureOfWork #EthicalHacking #BlueTeam #RedTeam #WakeUpXSolutions

🎙️ Live from RSA Conference, I sat down with Stacy to talk about her journey into cybersecurity and her first experience attending one of the biggest security conferences in the world.Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/efrenlsalazarGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-dittaIn this interview, we cover:🔹 What it’s like attending RSAC for the first time🔹 How a background in healthcare & biotech led to cybersecurity🔹 The importance of securing patient data and clinical information🔹 Why healthcare is a major target for cyber attacks🔹 The growing role of AI in cybersecurity🔹 The value of volunteering, networking, and communityStacy also shares her experience attending events like BSides and volunteering at a Global AI CISO Summit.💬 Key takeaway:Cybersecurity is evolving fast, and combining industries like healthcare, AI, and security is creating powerful new opportunities.🙌 Shoutout to her professors, especially Professor Monsi, for encouraging her to attend RSAC and explore the field.👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more cybersecurity interviews and insights.#Cybersecurity #AI #RSAC #Healthcare #Infosec #Careers #Tech

Great connecting with Louis Kemp at RSA Conference 2026! 🎙️We had an insightful conversation about his journey from help desk to cybersecurity leadership, and now building his own consulting company.💡 Key takeaways from our conversation:Start with the foundations, help desk experience builds real understandingCybersecurity is evolving toward autonomous penetration testingMentorship is critical for the next generation entering the fieldThe future of security isn’t just tools, it’s community + educationLouis is currently: 🔐 CTO of A.N.U.L Technologies 🤝 Partnered with Horizon3.ai 🛡️ Offering MSSP services including pentesting, training, and upcoming vCISO supportOne thing that stood out: 👉 “Cybersecurity makes more sense when you understand the basics first.”This is a must-watch for anyone trying to break into cybersecurity or level up.Louis Kemp services: https://www.anultechnologies.com/#CyberSecurity #RSAC2026 #Mentorship #ITCareers #InfoSec #Networking #CyberSecurityCommunity #MSSP #Leadership #TechCareers #WakeUPX #Podcast

🎙️ Controlling Production Access Just Got Smarter At RSAC, I had the opportunity to sit down and talk about something every cybersecurity professional Gergely Dányi should care about, production access control.I spoke with the team from P0 Security, and here’s what stood out 👇🔐 What is P0 Security?P0 Security is an authorization control plane that helps organizations manage and enforce access across their entire infrastructure, whether it's:Linux systems (SSH)Windows serversCloud environments like AWS & Azure👉 The goal? Ensure users only get the access they actually need, nothing more, nothing less.⚡ Key Capabilities:Identity-based access (integrates with providers like Okta, Entra ID, etc.)Elimination of static credentialsJust-in-time (JIT) elevated access via automated workflowsCentralized policy enforcement across systems💡 What makes it different?The concept of being identity-native.This brings two major advantages:Clear audit trails, know exactly who did what (no more shared admin account confusion)Simpler deployment, API-driven integrations and lightweight connectors📊 Visibility + ControlP0 Security also:Scans environmentsMaps users, credentials, and entitlementsIdentifies over-permissioned accountsHelps guide organizations toward a more secure, least-privileged future🎧 This is what The Wake UP X Solutions is all aboutReal conversations. Real insights. No scripts.If you're in cybersecurity, IT, or cloud, this is the kind of innovation you should be paying attention to.👋 I’m Efren Salazar, and I’m out here at RSAC connecting with amazing people and sharing their stories.👉 Follow for more content on:CybersecurityAI & riskCareer growthReal-world tech insightsSpotify Podcast: https://lnkd.in/gNNknZKjYoutube Podcast: https://lnkd.in/gugPZpFKApple Podcast: https://lnkd.in/gv7reiuv🎥 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and LinkedInhashtag#CyberSecurity hashtag#IdentityAccessManagement hashtag#IAM hashtag#CloudSecurity hashtag#ZeroTrust hashtag#DevSecOps hashtag#RSAC hashtag#RSAC2026 hashtag#TechLeadership hashtag#ITSecurity hashtag#CyberCareers hashtag#Networking hashtag#Podcast hashtag#WakeUpXSolutions

🤖 AI in Cybersecurity: Hype or Reality?At RSA Conference in San Francisco, I asked Johnny Norris from Concentric AI a simple question:**Is AI actually real… or just hype?**Here’s the honest answer 👇💡 There *is* real power in AI—but there’s also a lot of noise.Many companies are jumping on the trend, but not all are truly using AI. Some are just rebranding existing solutions, what Johnny called, AI washing.”**🔍 So what actually matters?* Protecting your data and organization* Sticking to strong security fundamentals* Testing solutions with real proof of valueAt the end of the day:**AI isn’t fake—but the hype around it can be misleading.**🎙️ Huge thank you to Johnny for being a great guest and sharing real, practical insight.What do you think—AI is hype, real, or somewhere in between?#Cybersecurity #AI #RSAC #DataSecurity #Infosec #ArtificialIntelligence

🎙️ From High School Cyber Competitions to AI Security 🔐At RSA Conference 2026, I sat down with Sana Talwar to talk about breaking into cybersecurity—and what it really takes.💡 How she started:AP Computer ScienceCyberPatriot (CTF-style competitions)Passion for problem-solving🚀 What actually got her into cyber?Internships.She explored multiple paths:Software engineering in securityNetwork security (hands-on + server rooms ❄️)Embedded security👉 Didn’t love most of them… and that’s the point.That trial-and-error led her to Product Security.🤖 What she’s focused on now:AI Security & AppSecPrompt injection risksMaking security easier for beginners to understand📈 Her take on AI:Not replacing jobs—but reshaping themSome entry-level tasks may fadeNew opportunities are emerging fastThe key = adaptability🧠 Advice for anyone trying to break in:Don’t skip fundamentals (networking, systems, architecture)Certifications help—but real understanding matters moreLearn by doingUse LinkedIn to network & find opportunities🤝 Why RSAC matters:Meet people you’ve followed for yearsTurn online connections into real conversationsLearn what others are building right now🎧 Real conversations. No scripts. Just value.I’m Efren Salazar with Wake Up X Solutions—bringing you insights straight from RSAC.#CyberSecurity #AISecurity #RSAC #RSAC2026 #CyberCareers #Networking #WomenInCyber #TechGrowth #Podcast #WakeUpXSolutions

Efren Salazar discusses imposter syndrome on the Wakeup X Solutions podcast, explaining it as the inner voice that says you’re not valuable, ready, or knowledgeable and that others will expose you. He shares that imposter syndrome is common across IT and cybersecurity—from beginners to executives—and describes his own experience transitioning from IT into cybersecurity while questioning whether he belongs. Efren notes that in cybersecurity you can never know everything because new attacks, vulnerabilities, tools, and technologies constantly emerge, which can intensify self-doubt. He encourages listeners to focus on feedback, be unique, brand and present themselves, and be proud of their accomplishments. He advises surrounding yourself with the right people aligned with your goals, and emphasizes that you don’t need to be perfect or know everything to start—just be consistent, keep learning, and keep pushing.

In this episode of the Wake Up X Podcast, we sit down with James to break down his journey from Help Desk to leadership and CISSP, using a light football-style framework to talk about mindset, preparation, pivots, and long-term growth.We cover what it really takes to break into cybersecurity, why Help Desk is a powerful foundation, and how to think beyond tools and start thinking like management and leadership. James also shares practical advice on studying for certifications, avoiding common exam mistakes, and adapting your learning style to actually retain information.We dive into AI and learning, including how to use AI responsibly without over-relying on it, why AI hallucinations matter, and why starting with ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) can be a smart move before pursuing CISSP.This conversation is for anyone:Transitioning into cybersecurityStudying for certifications like CISSPStruggling with confidence or imposter syndromeConsidering a career pivotLooking to build leadership skills in ITIf you’ve ever questioned your background, your pace, or whether you belong in cybersecurity—this episode is for you.🎯 Key Topics CoveredHelp Desk to CISSP career pathCybersecurity learning styles & visualizationAI as a study tool (and its limits)Leadership mindset vs engineer mindsetCareer pivots and long-term growthConfidence, resilience, and owning mistakes

In this episode of the Wake Up X Podcast, Efren sits down with Gustavo Mastroianni, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at a California state agency, to break down the real impact of AI in cybersecurity.We dive deep into:How fast AI is evolving (faster than expected)Whether AI will replace jobs or create new onesAI in SOC, GRC, and automation workflowsData Loss Prevention (DLP) and AI guardrailsWhy AI is becoming a required skill for IT & Cyber professionalsCertifications like CISM, CRISC, and AI-focused certsThe balance between technology and security (CTO vs CISO mindset)Real-world risks like AI hallucinations and data leakageThis is not hype — this is real-world insight from someone leading cybersecurity programs today.Whether you're:Entry-level ITSOC AnalystGRC professionalOr aiming for CISO/CTO rolesThis episode gives you a clear roadmap of how AI will shape your career.🔗 Chapters00:00 – Intro & Guest Background03:00 – How fast AI is actually moving07:00 – AI becoming a job requirement11:00 – AI in SOC & automation15:00 – AI certifications & career growth20:00 – Education vs Certifications27:00 – Will AI replace jobs?33:00 – GRC, audits & AI risks40:00 – Real-world CISO accomplishments46:00 – CTO vs CISO mindset52:00 – Final advice for professionals🔥 Hashtags#WakeUpX #Cybersecurity #ArtificialIntelligence #AIinCyber #CISO #ITCareers #TechLeadership #SOC #GRC #DLP #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfWork #CareerGrowth #AIJobs #CyberPodcast

🚨 Replay: LIVE Cybersecurity Podcast!Curious about breaking into cybersecurity or becoming a CISO? Tune in for an insightful Q&A with a cybersecurity expert, educator, and advisor who shares his career journey from tech engineer to CISO, professor, and ISACA chapter president.💬 What You'll Learn:• How to start a cybersecurity career with no degree or certifications• The key differences between technical and non-technical CISO roles• Why volunteering, networking, and mentorship are game-changers• The top certifications to pursue (ISACA, ISC2, PMI, etc.)• How AI is reshaping cybersecurity (Red Team, Blue Team, SOC)• The state of the job market: Entry-level cybersecurity jobs in 2025• Leveraging LinkedIn and industry groups like ISACA to boost your career🎓 Guest Highlights:• 30+ years of experience across IT, healthcare, education, and government• Founded a business-focused cybersecurity graduate program• Holds over 50 certifications in risk, privacy, audit, and security• President of ISACA Sacramento and FBI Citizens Academy Alum🎯 Who Should Watch:Aspiring cybersecurity pros, IT professionals looking to switch gears, students, and anyone interested in how AI and cybersecurity are shaping the future.🔔 Don't miss future live sessions, career advice, and cybersecurity insights—subscribe now!Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/28GZnRBrIV2efHOhZdifttApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-x-securing-tomorrow-empowering-today-with/id1792821643YouTube Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLODZHZk6rF5j9esSSLcFbvDGJSqlhs2ZMLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wake-up-x-solutions

🎙️ Wake Up X: Cybersecurity, Innovation & Real Talk 🚨Host: Efren L. Salazar | Cybersecurity Enthusiast | Entrepreneur | IT ProWelcome to Wake Up X, the podcast where cybersecurity, AI, automation, and entrepreneurship collide. We keep it real while helping you navigate the fast-changing world of tech—from breaking into cybersecurity to scaling in your career or business.Each week, Efren L. Salazar sits down with industry pros—CISOs, ethical hackers, SOC analysts, and entrepreneurs—to unpack the strategies, tools, and mindset shifts needed to stay ahead in today’s digital battlefield.Whether you're a cybersecurity professional, a tech founder, or someone exploring a career in IT or InfoSec, this podcast is your go-to for real-world knowledge, career clarity, and inspiration from those who live and breathe this space.🔥 Recent Episode Spotlight:"Automating SOC Security: Fighting Alert Fatigue with AI"In this episode, Efren chats with Gustavo Mastroianni, CISO, about how AI-driven automation is transforming the SOC environment. With SOC analysts drowning in thousands of alerts daily, many of them false positives, it’s time to reimagine how we respond to cyber threats.⚠️ Why Alert Fatigue Is a Cybersecurity Crisis:✅ SOC teams are overwhelmed by alert volume✅ Real threats are buried under noise✅ Hackers take advantage of burnout✅ Manual response wastes time and risks breaches✅ Burnout leads to errors and missed signals🤖 How AI & Automation Are Changing the Game:🔹 AI-powered SIEM & SOAR platforms cut through the noise🔹 Behavioral analytics flag true anomalies🔹 Automated incident response executes in real-time🔹 Machine learning improves detection over time🔹 Analysts reclaim time to focus on threat hunting & strategy“AI won’t replace SOC analysts, but it will make them smarter, faster, and more effective.” – Gustavo Mastroianni💡 What You’ll Learn on Wake Up X:How to start and grow your cybersecurity careerHow to avoid burnout in high-pressure tech rolesThe future of AI in InfoSec and SOC operationsTools that top pros use (SIEM, SOAR, endpoint security, and more)The mindset of top cybersecurity leaders & entrepreneursReal talk about tech, hustle, and staying resilient in the digital ageBook breakdowns and lessons from So Good They Can’t Ignore You and other impactful reads🎧 Listen + Subscribe:📺 YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gugPZpFK🎙 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gNNknZKj🍏 Apple Podcast: https://lnkd.in/gv7reiuv

✨Exciting Announcement! ✨ Follow: ⁠Gustavo Mastroianni⁠ - CISO⁠ Follow: ⁠Efren L. Salazar - Wake UP X - Podcast⁠ I’m thrilled to introduce ⁠Gustavo Mastroianni ⁠as the first guest on my virtual podcast! Gustavo Mastroianni is a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) responsible for overseeing technical and cybersecurity operations in his organization. With his vast expertise and leadership in the field, this conversation promises to be insightful and inspiring. A huge thank you to Gustavo Mastroianni for being my first guest! I’m excited to announce that this podcast will be launching on all platforms, including YouTube and LinkedIn, so be sure to keep an eye out for it! Here’s a sneak peek at the topics we’ll cover: 1. Let’s Chat About Your JourneyWe’ll start by exploring Gustavo's personal journey into cybersecurity:How did he get started in the field?What challenges did he face, and what pivotal moments shaped his career? 2. Recommended Frameworks and WhyGustavo will share his thoughts on the best cybersecurity frameworks, including:NIST, CIS, and others.Why these frameworks are effective and how they’ve influenced his approach to security. 3. GRC vs. Cybersecurity: Which Path Is Better?We’ll dive into the differences between Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) roles and traditional cybersecurity roles:Which path offers more career growth?How do personal interests and goals shape this decision? 4. Cybersecurity Across IndustriesWhich industries are poised for the most growth in cybersecurity?Healthcare, schools, or government?Gustavo’s perspective on where the demand will rise and why. 5. Skills and Mindset for SuccessWhat does it take to excel in cybersecurity?The balance between technical expertise and leadership skills.Why leadership may or may not be necessary in this field. 6. Certifications vs. ExperienceAre certifications or hands-on experience more valuable in cybersecurity?Gustavo’s advice on achieving credibility and growth in the industry.Whether professionals should aim for both. 7. Starting Salaries and ExpectationsWhat’s a reasonable pay range for new grads with little to no experience?Insights on entering the field, growth potential, and setting realistic expectations.8. Future Trends in CybersecurityLooking ahead:What trends will shape the future of cybersecurity?Is this field worth pursuing long-term, and what are the upsides and challenges? 9. Resources for BeginnersGustavo’s recommendations for entry-level professionals:Tools, software, hardware, books, courses, and videos to get started. 10. Open Discussion and Final ThoughtsGustavo Mastroianni will share more about his journey, key lessons, and emerging trends he’s excited about. Any additional advice for those breaking into cybersecurity. This is going to be an incredible conversation filled with insights and inspiration. Don’t forget to follow me for updates and stay tuned for the official launch!