Lost In Cyberia

Policy. Diplomacy. Cyber. Three words guaranteed to clear a room (or so you'd think).But cyber diplomacy matters and we provide real-world examples like the 2007 cyber attacks on Estonia, the Medibank breach and Australia slapping sanctions on Russian hackers and the infamous Stuxnet worm. In this episode we break down what cyber diplomacy is, why it matters and what Australia is actually doing to strengthen ties across the Indo-Pacific (with a healthy dose of Mean Girls references and Harry Potter nostalgia thrown in).(P.S. Anika called it 3 Days in Mariupol - it's 20 Days in Mariupol. Still haunting either way)Australian Volunteers Program:https://www.australianvolunteers.com/20 Days In Mariupol:https://www.theguardian.com/film/2024/mar/11/20-days-in-mariupol-documentary-oscarWhy is it called the Quad?https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/the-real-significance-of-the-quad/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Imagine this, you're in your kitchen baking a cake and someone calls you from crypto.com saying they're from the security team and that there's been suspicious activity on your account. You are a crypto.com customer so this sounds pretty legitimate. But turns out it's not. It's just a scammer pretending to be from crypto.com. This is what happened to Stephen. He received a call from a US number. The caller directed him to a convincing lookalike site (a hyphenated domain), pressured him with urgency, and prompted him to enter his app PIN and a 2FA code, plus delete the legitimate app and download another wallet app.Everyone thinks that they wouldn't fall for a scam. But scammers use psychological tactics to get us when our guard is down. We loved Stephen sharing his story with us and we need to normalise talking about scamming because we are all vulnerable due to living in the digital world. If you are know someone who you’re concerned could fall for a crypto scam, make sure you share this episode with them. If you'd like to share your own scam story, please get in contact with us.Report a scam:https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scamReport identity theft:https://www.idcare.org/Our Scam Stories:https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ourscamstories_i-thought-i-was-immune-to-scams-i-felt-activity-7439816758481502208-wuI1?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&rcm=ACoAABXP9DgBP6Ry-lt82_LL0JIly0YXzrG4z3oSend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode, we are joined by Sam Brazier-Hollins, Head of Technical Consulting at Fujitsu (also Annie-Mei's former manager). We got so into the convo straight away that we forgot to get Sam to actually introduce himself properly. But you can look him up on LinkedIn.We discuss Sam's recent work trip to New Zealand for the Digital Workplace Conference discussing Microsoft 365 security and AI adoption alongside change management. Sam also reflects on balancing cybersecurity work with having a three-month-old daughter.Not sure what data you should be sharing with AI? This episode covers everything about privacy issues, data retention, bias, hallucinations and bots chatting to other bots.We discuss when AI is useful (eg. taking meeting notes) and when it’s not.If you’re in the consulting space, you’ll find this episode useful for providing tips on how to successfully roll out Microsoft Copilot. Sam is a Microsoft MVP, with the ‘P’ standing for Professional.We also talk about the importance of taking time offline in an age where it feels like we’re constantly online. Sam and Annie-Mei love to cook, while Anika loves reading tarot cards. Can you tell we're all 30-something millennials?Sam Brazier-Hollins:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-brazier-hollins/Walk vs Drive to Car Wash:https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUwGpPwEvhz/?igsh=YmZqMmw1N2I4bXZoSend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Jasmine McCrudden joins us for a juicy episode spilling the tea on all things cyber recruitment. Wanna know if you're doing enough to stand out on your CV? Not sure what hiring managers are looking for in the interview? Jasmine is here to help. She provides some great insights including where all the cybersecurity professionals are in Australia, and the biggest mistakes people are making on their CVs and during interviews.Plus how much does LinkedIn matter for your personal brand? And is AI helping or hindering your chances of getting a job?Also Jasmine has kindly reviewed two CVs that were part of a comp that we ran on LinkedIn. If you aren't following The Cybersecurity Gals on LinkedIn, make sure you go do that now.The Cybersecurity Gals:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-cybersecurity-gals/Jasmine McCrudden:https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-mccrudden/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

We went to Canberra Cyber Hub HQ to chat with Dr. Vicki Gardiner (COO) and Madi Cook (Engagement Manager). Vicki has had a lengthy career in STEM but is a chemistry girl at heart. Vicki is our first guest to not only have a PhD but to have her own Wikipedia page. Did we also mention she has an award named after her called the Vicki Gardiner Advocacy Award? Madi has also had an interesting career that started in the travel industry only to be disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. She then pivoted into recruitment and tech roles before joining the Hub. She discusses the transferable skills like communication and problem-solving that helped her get to where she is now. They explain the Hub’s role as a not-for-profit supporting cybersecurity (and expanding into space and quantum), and promote the Cyber Career Symposium, which showcases varied cyber careers for high school students, tertiary students, and career changers through panels, expos, hands-on activities, and expert advice. They also discuss workforce demand, the Cyber Warden program, cyber hygiene, AI tool risks, and cyber’s importance to protecting people, data, and national resilience.Canberra Cyber Hub website:https://canberracyberhub.com.au/Cyber Careers Symposium registration (for graduates/career changers):https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/cyber-career-symposium-tertiary-students-graduates-career-transitioners-tickets-1982142697165?Cyber Wardens:https://cyberwardens.com.au/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

We're joined by Kersti Eesmaa, a former Estonian diplomat and current advocate for cyber resilience in Australia. Kersti shares her journey from diplomacy to becoming an ambassador for Estonia in Australia, and her transition to a new life and career Down Under. She opens up about her unique voice, the result of a childhood health crisis, and how it has become her trademark in public speaking.The discussion covers the concept of cyber reserves in Estonia and Australia's potential for adopting a similar model. Kersti highlights the importance of community service in cyber security, the challenges, and the need for collaboration across various sectors. The conversation also touches upon the significance of digital identity, online elections, and how digital solutions can help vulnerable communities, offering lessons from Estonia's advanced digital infrastructure. The episode is a blend of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and a vision for a digitally resilient future.Cyber Civilian Reserve:https://www.verticalscope.com.au/cyber-civilian-reserveCyber Volunteer Report:https://bond.edu.au/sites/default/files/2025-07/CyberVolunteerReport2025FIN.pdfAustralia Needs a Civilian Cyber Reserve:https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/australia-needs-a-civilian-cyber-reserve-state-emergency-services-are-the-model/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost In Cyberia, we’re joined by Rue Maharaj. Rue shares his extensive background, detailing his journey from South Africa to Australia via New Zealand, and his transition from private sector IT roles to public sector cybersecurity. Focusing on his current role in cybersecurity defence management at Melbourne Water, Rue highlights the critical importance of incident response and psychological resilience in cybersecurity. The discussion dives deep into various profiles of cyber attackers, cybersecurity awareness, and the essential role of human psychology in both defending against and responding to cyber threats. Rue also emphasises the need for diverse skill sets in the industry, advocating for the integration of fields such as psychology and criminology into cybersecurity practices.CyPsy Conference 2026:https://cypsy29.ulusofona.pt/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

We are back in 2026 with our first guest of the year Louis Cremen (although this was recorded last year). Louis shares his interesting career journey from software development to becoming a leading cybersecurity educator. He talks about the challenges of centralising security testing for a whole country, the thrill of traveling and working internationally, and the importance of sovereign capabilities in AI and quantum computing for Australia. Louis shares his teaching experience, including the power of using Spider-Man references and Annie-Mei shares hers too of using animal noises to explain English words. Louis emphasises the importance of staying curious, continuous learning, and the need for Australia to step up its game in promoting local talent and businesses in cybersecurity. Whether you're a newbie in cyber or a seasoned pro, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for a mix of humour, education, and inspiration to get out of your comfort zone. Also a reminder that not all risk is bad, as taking risks breeds innovation and creativity!Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In the final episode of their first season, hosts Annie-Mei and Anika celebrate reaching 1,000 downloads with a not-so-suspicious balloon and recap the whirlwind year of 2025. The duo chats about their international listeners, weird podcast recommendations for pets, and their favourite episodes and guests. The conversation then takes a reflective turn as they answer each other’s questions about personal growth, setting boundaries, and their experiences in the podcasting and content creation world. Along the way, they share plenty of laughs, anecdotal stories, and think about the year ahead. Instead of New Years Resolutions, they choose three words they want 2026 to be.Casefile True Crime - Silk Road:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6y7EbFjfnKXq2e7aCt81A7?si=iJowU33ZTVqIIchQ5TbWvQTiff In Tech:https://youtube.com/@tiffintech?si=xiauxUTvF1cR_flSSend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Why should you have to decide between listening to Miley Cyrus or Justin Bieber on your phone? With the cloud you don't have to... but at what cost?This episode of Lost in Cyberia was recorded down in Melbourne while we were there for CyberCon. We recap what we've been up to the last few months while also debunking some of the funniest misconceptions about “the cloud.”Equal parts educational and entertaining, this episode is a perfect blend of pop culture banter and tech nostalgia. ¿Por qué no los dos?iCloud breach:https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-29039294Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, hosts Annie-Mei and Anika welcome James Corera, Director of Cyber, Technology and Security Program at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI). James shares insights on his extensive career in national security, his educational background, and his experiences in intelligence and foreign policy. The discussion covers the evolving nature of global threats, ASPI's role in providing diverse policy perspectives, and the complexity of cybersecurity challenges. The conversation also explores the importance of diversity in national security, the impact of constant connectivity on younger generations, and the need for constructive debate and empathy in addressing national and global issues.Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, hosts Annie-Mei and Anika welcome special guest Ray Goldman, a former miscreant turned Business Information Security Officer. Ray shares his journey into the InfoSec world, his involvement with the DC 814 hacker meetups, and his passion for pro wrestling. The discussion covers topics such as community building within cybersecurity, the importance of soft skills, mentorship, and the psychology behind both cybersecurity and pro wrestling. Ray also provides insights into the hiring process, the impact of youth on cybercrime, and the benefits of having diverse teams. The conversation dives into pro wrestling’s influence on various aspects of life and work, illustrating how the art of storytelling and psychology plays a role in both fields.Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of 'Lost in Cyberia,' hosts Annie-Mei and Anika are joined by Betta Leon Delsordo and Clarissa Bury, to discuss their journeys and expertise in cybersecurity. Betta shares her path from self-taught coder to lead application penetration tester at OnDefend, with a focus on application security and AI hacking. Clarissa, a strategic advisor with experience at CrowdStrike and Rapid7, talks about the importance of tabletop exercises and proactive security measures. Both guests highlight their involvement in the cybersecurity community, emphasising mentorship, public speaking, and the significance of creating an inclusive environment for women in technology. The discussion also covers the evolving landscape of AI in cybersecurity, challenges for small businesses, and the differences in the industry between the US and Europe. As the guests prepare for new adventures, Betta moving to Italy for a role at Amazon Web Services and Clarissa job hunting in Berlin, they reflect on the importance of community and continuous learning in their professional growth.Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Hosts Annie-Mei and Anika unpack social engineering or “human hacking”, with insights from books by Chris Hadnagy and Kevin Mitnick. They break down the attack lifecycle, common tactics (phishing, pretexting, tailgating, quid pro quo), and how AI is supercharging scams, then share practical defences: pause-and-verify, reduce digital footprints, and normalise double-checking at work and home. A clear, actionable guide to spotting and resisting manipulation online and off. Practical takeawaysPause and verify: If there’s urgency, slow down. Confirm via a second channel (Teams/Slack/phone) using contact details you already trust.Know your own levers: List your motivations and soft spots (travel deals, pets, promotions, family). Expect lures to target them.Harden your photos & profiles: Ask permission before posting others; avoid location tags; check backgrounds for whiteboards, monitors, ID, or addresses.At the door: Challenge tailgating politely; ask for ID and verify with the office before granting access—even to someone in high-vis.At work: Prefer frequent, tailored awareness over once-a-year training; normalise “it’s fine to check with me” in leadership; run realistic simulations.At home: Talk with family and friends about what not to share on your behalf.Resources for further education:Chris Hadnagy — Social Engineering: The Science of Human HackingKevin Mitnick — The Art of Deception; The Art of InvisibilitySend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Annie-Mei and Anika are joined by Wadzi Nenzou, who is the founder of 'Our Scam Stories'. Wadzi shares her mission of educating people about investment scams to help them build wealth without losing hard-earned money. With over 18 years of experience in financial services, Wadzi discusses the importance of sharing scam survivor stories to reduce stigma and educate the public. The conversation covers the increasing sophistication of scams, common scam tactics, and which demographics most likely to be targeted.Annie-Mei talks about the time she was scammed in China.Do you have a scam story that you'd like to share? Make sure to get in touch with Wadzi. Links to the website and her LinkedIn below.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:45 Guest Background and Achievements03:33 Journey to Scam Education05:27 Impact of Scams and Statistics06:45 Reasons Behind Scam Vulnerability08:42 Sophistication of Modern Scams10:12 Stigma and Empathy for Scam Victims22:15 Targeting Vulnerable Groups24:10 Personal Scam Stories and Social Connections27:57 Men and Scams: A Personal Story29:17 Risk Aversion in Women and Financial Impact31:55 Mental Health and Vulnerability to Scams32:51 The Tragic Reality of Pig Butchering Scams36:06 Fighting Back: Erin West and Operation Shamrock37:13 Our Scam Stories: A Platform for Victims39:43 The Importance of Sharing Scam Stories45:37 Conclusion and Social LinksShow Links:Connect with Wadzi on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadzanainenzou/Learn more about Our Scam Stories:https://www.ourscamstories.com/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Annie-Mei and Anika discuss their experiences of going to cybersecurity conferences. They talk about what you can expect and how not all conferences are the same. Anika explains her experience at BSides Canberra and doing the CTF challenge. Annie-Mei talks about her first time going to the biggest hacker conference in the world - DEFCON. Spoiler alert: it was awesome. 00:00 Introduction01:08 First Cybersecurity Conference Experiences05:52 BSides Canberra: A Community-Focused Event07:42 The Fun and Challenges of Cybersecurity Conferences15:52 Speaking at CyberCon Canberra18:56 DEFCON: The Pinnacle of Cyber Conferences22:26 Exciting Badge Experience at DEFCON22:46 Planning Your First DEFCON Visit23:17 Social Engineering Competition Highlights24:53 Traditions and Talks at DEFCON25:48 Navigating the Las Vegas Convention Center27:34 AI Village and Deep Fake Experience28:16 After Parties and Networking33:00 Memorable Talks and Personal Stories36:13 The Importance of Public Speaking41:02 Opportunities from Conference Talks46:02 Encouragement for Aspiring Speakers48:12 Conclusion and ReflectionsShow Links:BSides Canberra: https://www.bsidesau.com.au/DEFCON: https://defcon.org/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Annie-Mei and Anika are joined by cybersecurity professional Rodman Ramezanian. Rodman shares insights into his 14-year career, touching on his beginnings at Apple as an iOS specialist, his role in cybersecurity across various sectors, and his position as the Director of Events and Professional Development for ISACA Canberra. He also dives into the unexpectedly transferable skills from DJing to his professional life, the importance of communication and mentorship, and his experiences at events like DEFCON. Rodman highlights the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity careers and the value of involvement in community and professional development activities. This episode offers a comprehensive look at a dynamic career path in cybersecurity, blending hands-on expertise with personal passion and community engagement.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:36 Is Rodman's name inspired by the famous NBA player?01:38 Rodman's Cybersecurity Journey03:33 Working at Apple: A Unique Experience06:27 The Apple Store Culture08:04 Transitioning to Cybersecurity18:52 Mentorship and Career Growth29:52 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Mentorship31:28 The Importance of Pre-Sales in Customer Experience38:37 Balancing a Career in Cybersecurity with DJing42:53 Networking and Community Building in Cybersecurity50:05 Joining a Board and Professional Development59:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Rodman on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodman-r/Listen to Rodman on SoundCloud:https://soundcloud.com/rodman1919Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, hosts Annie-Mei and Anika explore the question of whether you need a cybersecurity degree to work in the field. With varied personal experiences, they provide insights into the current job market, entry-level challenges, and the importance of hands-on skills versus formal education. They discuss alternative pathways like bootcamps, networking, certifications, and transferable skills from other industries. The conversation also touches on the importance of following your gut and not conforming to rigid career expectations.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Backgrounds01:21 The Cybersecurity Job Market03:19 Importance of Skills Over Degrees05:07 University Experience and Employability08:55 Personal Journeys and Career Decisions11:09 Challenges in Cybersecurity Education14:13 Real-World Experience vs. Academic Learning28:39 Diverse Career Paths and Mentorship31:45 Parental Expectations and Career Choices33:32 The Reality of Cybersecurity Careers35:47 Transferring Skills to Cybersecurity37:24 Networking and Continuous Learning39:14 The Importance of Following Your Passion44:52 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Comparison56:09 Conclusion: Trusting Your GutApple Security Bounty:https://security.apple.com/bounty/Linux Vulnerability:https://www.akamai.com/blog/security-research/critical-linux-backdoor-xz-utils-discovered-what-to-knowThis Is How They Tell Me The World Ends:https://www.amazon.com.au/This-They-Tell-World-Will/dp/1635576059Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, hosts Annie-Mei and Anika are joined by Veronika Kolek Netolická, the co-founder of Women4Cyber Czechia and current cyber attachée for the Indo-Pacific at the National Cyber and Information Security Agency. The discussion takes place at the Czech Embassy in Canberra, looking at  Veronika's extensive background in cybersecurity, her education, and her various roles and initiatives. The conversation explores the importance of diversity and inclusivity in cybersecurity, the foundation and growth of Women4Cyber Czechia, and the challenges of bringing more women and underrepresented groups into the fold. The episode also touches on the significance of public policy in cybersecurity and the need for greater public awareness. Veronika shares insights from her experience living in Canberra, her commitment to continuous learning, and the value of mentorship and constructive criticism. The podcast concludes with practical advice for those aspiring to a career in cybersecurity and diplomacy.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:44 Veronika's Background and Achievements01:57 Women for Cyber Czechia02:47 Diversity in Cybersecurity09:37 Public Policy and Cybersecurity11:37 Role of Cyber Attache16:22 Global Cybersecurity Perspectives22:05 Cultural Differences and Security Mindsets27:45 Living in Canberra: A Unique Experience28:20 Navigating Social Life in Canberra30:11 Balancing Academia and Work32:16 The Importance of Communication in Academia34:42 Diverse Perspectives and Real-World Applications38:24 Cybersecurity Conferences and Initiatives41:58 Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals45:39 The Role of Criticism and Mentorship49:55 Final Thoughts and FarewellWomen4Cyber Czechia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/women4cyber-czechia/Women4Cyber Czechia Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/women4cyber.cz/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode, Harriet and Annie-Mei have a chat over wine and ice-cream sundaes from a hotel room in Sydney before heading to a Gracie Abrams concert. They explore Harriet's journey as the founder of Mileva Security Labs, an AI security company that addresses security risks to AI systems. Harriet shares insights into the challenges of starting and running a business, especially as a young woman in a male-dominated field. The discussion delves into issues of bias, gender, and ageism in the professional world, and the importance of resilience and adaptability. The conversation also touches on public speaking, the benefits of networking, and the need for social interactions. With anecdotes from their careers and personal lives, Harriet and Annie-Mei paint a vivid picture of the entrepreneurial landscape and the personal growth that comes with it.Show links:Mileva Security Labs: https://milev.aiHarriet's AI Security podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BJiuvMBqVKKBW2XyID6Bz00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:53 Excitement for Gracie Abrams Concert01:19 Harriet's Company: Mileva Security Labs03:26 Challenges of Being a Female Founder07:10 Ageism and Bias in Professional Settings10:43 The Reality of Running a Startup14:02 Balancing Work and Personal Life19:25 Frustrations with Traditional Work Culture20:05 The Potential of AI in the Workforce20:21 Struggles with Nine-to-Five Jobs21:54 Public Sector Work Dynamics23:53 Starting a Company in AI Security25:41 Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking27:28 Building Confidence and Making Friends31:46 The Importance of Networking34:18 The Need for Face-to-Face Interaction35:59 Wrapping Up and Final ThoughtsSend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, hosts Annie Mei and Anika are joined by Alaina Lawson, a Perth-based cybersecurity consultant. Alaina discusses her journey into cybersecurity, starting from her interest in IT during high school, influenced by her family background in IT. She shares how asking a simple question to a customer when she was working in a bakery changed her entire career trajectory. Alaina also shares her experiences navigating a male-dominated field, the encouragement she received from mentors, and her various roles in cloud engineering, technical writing, and governance, risk, and compliance (GRC). The conversation touches on the importance of encouraging women in STEM, the challenges in cybersecurity documentation, and the future complexities of GRC with advancing technology and data storage concerns.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:32 Alaina's Background and Early Career02:09 High School Experiences in IT04:58 University and Early Work Experience12:41 Diverse Roles in Cybersecurity14:20 The Importance of Technical Writing22:28 The Importance of Learning Different Forms of Writing and Speaking23:02 Introduction to Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)23:35 Misconceptions and Realities of GRC25:09 Challenges in GRC Documentation and Compliance27:13 The Role of Cybersecurity in GRC36:33 The Future of GRC and Data ManagementSend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost In Cyberia, Bianca Puglisi and Kathy Sisson share their unconventional journeys into project management. Bianca shares her journey from hospitality and psychology to joining the Army at 30, becoming a corporate trainer in cyber, and currently serving as the Operations Manager at Solvyr. Kathy details her career path from being a photographer in the Air Force to working within New Zealand's government and defence sectors, and now tackling IT security projects in Australia. Together, they discuss their experiences and challenges in the cybersecurity field, share insights into effective project management, and emphasise the importance of strong communication and adaptability in tech roles.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions01:52 Kathy's Journey from Photography to Cybersecurity05:53 Bianca's Transition from Hospitality to the Army13:36 Project Management in Cybersecurity18:41 Skills and Training for Project Managers24:50 Challenges and Best Practices in Project Management34:15 Addressing Problems and Solutions34:31 Importance of Project Scope35:41 Challenges in Project Management36:52 Managing Subject Matter Experts38:31 Skills for Effective Project Management39:53 Gender Dynamics in the Workplace41:53 Resilience and Risk Management44:00 Dealing with Difficult Situations48:02 Navigating Gender Bias55:52 Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolution56:53 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsPrince 2: https://www.prince2.com/ausProject Management Professional (PMP): https://www.pmi.org/certifications/project-management-pmpSend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, we’re joined by Hortense Rothery, the Relationship Manager at Volkis. Hortense shares her unique career journey from studying fashion design in New Zealand to transitioning into software development and eventually finding her calling in cybersecurity. She discusses the challenges of running a fashion business and moving back to New Zealand during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hortense talks about why we need to stop saying ‘imposter syndrome’, the importance of work-life balance, and the role of mentors and managers in building confidence. She also reflects on her views regarding the impact of AI and the evolving landscape of technology. The conversation highlights how diverse experiences and resilience can lead to unexpected, yet fulfilling career paths in the tech industry.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:42 Hortense's Career Journey: From Fashion to Cybersecurity05:17 The Impact of COVID-19 on Career Choices05:54 Experiences in Software Development07:19 Fashion Industry Insights and Sustainability09:40 Thoughts on AI and Technology's Impact12:15 Transition to Cybersecurity12:50 Discovering Cybersecurity14:09 From Fashion to Cybersecurity15:14 The Rise and Fall of a Fashion Business16:37 Balancing Work and Life18:53 Not using the term ‘Imposter Syndrome’24:51 Redefining Nerd Culture26:51 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

This episode of Lost in Cyberia is what we (Annie-Mei and Anika) presented at CyberCon Canberra 2025.We look at the evolution of nerd culture, from the dawn of the internet til now. We also discuss:Why the “hacker in a hoodie” stereotype is doing more harm than good 👨‍💻The echo chamber of women-in-tech panels and why men need to be part of the convo 🧠Toxic work culture, burnout, and the pressure to play tough 💼🔥Cybercrime targeting women (deepfakes, harassment, etc.) and why it’s often overlooked 😡The contrast between Kevin Mitnick and Steve Wozniak 🤖Feminist crime theories, cyber policing, and redefining “penetration testing” (yep, we went there)If you've ever felt like cybersecurity wasn’t built with you in mind, you're not alone. Let’s talk about changing the culture, one hoodie cliché at a time.You can also watch this presentation on our YouTube channel:https://youtu.be/NVYKIugo_jM?si=LXnvDAX5z94NMJk-Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and rate us 5-stars if you like the show ⭐Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

March nearly broke us, but it also kind of made us. In this episode, Annie-Mei and Anika unpack a chaotic month full of firsts: our first podcast guests (shoutout to Harry from Phronesis and Hortense from Volkis 💜), first guest spot on another podcast (AISA Cyber Voices, with David!), and Anika’s first-ever conference presentation (spoiler: improv background came in handy 🎭).We chat about:CyberCon chaos 🧠Presenting at Volkis Day in Sydney (Chinese firewalls and Aussie cybercrime ft. pig butchering scams 🐷💔)Annie-Mei winning a Cyber Security Award and calling out a toxic ex-boss in her acceptance speech (iconic 🔥)Burnout, “The Devil Wears Prada” vibes, and the search for meaningWanting to touch grass (or dive with sharks 🦈)Glittery suits, dead fashion brands, and the emotional damage of retail closuresOh, and we hit 100 followers on Insta! Come hang out with us there and rate the pod if you’re feeling generous ⭐SLA the Label was the fashion company labelled which unfortunately no longer exists. You can find Sarah Ashcroft on Instagram though!Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Harry Smith (who also goes by Harrison, Hazza or H) is our very first guest on the podcast! Harry works at Phronesis Security in the application security space but has previously done pentesting on LLMs (large language models). We spoke to Harry when he was up in Canberra for CyberCon.If you're looking to get into cybersecurity and want to know how you can practice hacking (ethically), then this is the episode for you. Harry discusses how doing capture the flag (CTF) competitions and Hack The Box challenges helped him get a foot in the industry. We also discuss how to practice prompting AI and whether Harry's four years of customer service experience at Maccas helped him psychologically to bypass an LLM’s filters.Harry's LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrisonsmith1080/Lakera's Gandelf:https://gandalf.lakera.ai/baselineHack the Box:https://www.hackthebox.com/Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Have you ever been told that a team you're interviewing for are like a family? If you have it's probably a good idea to widen that job search.In this episode we discuss red flags people should look out for in a job interview, what questions you should ask in a job interview and the green flags that you can look out for.Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode hosts Annie-Mei and Anika discuss whether International Women's Day (IWD) is achieving its purpose of promoting equality and diversity in the Cyber Security industry.IWD was first observed on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. This date was chosen by Clara Zetkin, a German socialist, to commemorate the 1848 revolution and a key workers' protest in Prussia.However, the date was later changed to March 8 in 1913. This shift was influenced by Russian women, who held a mass strike for “Bread and Peace” on March 8, 1917 (February 23 in the Julian calendar, which Russia used at the time). This strike contributed to the Russian Revolution and the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II. After this, March 8 became the official date for International Women's Day, and in 1921, Lenin declared it an official holiday in the Soviet Union.Since then, March 8 has been recognised globally as International Women’s Day, officially adopted by the United Nations in 1977.Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

 In this episode of Lost in Cyberia, Anika and Annie-Mei recount their top five cyber security milestones from 2024, including cryptography publications, conference appearances, and hands-on digital projects. They also touch on dating apps, examining their technical and security aspects, and offer a timely reminder for everyone to spend more time offline. Tune in for down-to-earth look at cyber security successes and the balance between digital achievements and real-world experiences. Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

This episode looks at how people can reach their goals by taking baby steps, whether that's for public speaking, networking or anything else in life. Annie-Mei and Anika discuss their family upbringing and how that has made them the people they are today. Annie-Mei talks about how she never had thought about being a confident person until it was pointed out to her by Anika. They discuss the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone through solo travel, improv classes and talking to strangers. Meeting people can be scary but showing vulnerability can be a great way to break down the barrier when you're in a new environment.Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

In this episode, Annie-Mei and Anika share their personal experiences, highlighting that a technical background isn't strictly necessary and emphasising the value of transferable skills from other industries like hospitality. They stress the importance of networking and showcasing personality, advocating for proactive job applications even without fully meeting job requirements. The discussion also touches upon the challenges of work-life balance in demanding tech roles and how experience in navigating high-pressure environments can be an asset. Finally, they underscore the need for strong communication and writing skills to effectively convey technical information.Send us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals

Welcome to the Lost In Cyberia podcast where we break down cybersecurity into byte-sized pieces so you don't have to! We are your hosts Annie-Mei and Anika. In our very first episode we talk about the importance of mentoring and what mentors and mentees can learn from each other. We also discuss Anika's career journey including her time working in hotel quarantine during the Covid-19 pandemic. And do you actually need to know how to code to work in a cybersecurity role? We discuss all of this and much more. Follow us on Instagram where we will be sharing more cybersecurity tips @thecybersecuritygalsSend us Fan MailFind us on Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn @thecybersecuritygals