What separates good privacy professionals from world-class ones? It’s not just knowledge, it’s knowing where things fall apart.In this episode, we uncover why vendor due diligence is non-negotiable for privacy pros who want to build credibility, protect their organisations, and rise as trusted leaders.You’ll learn:The real cost of poor vendor due dilligence (hint: it’s not just fines)How to tailor your due diligence process based on riskQuestions every privacy pro should ask vendors (but usually don’t)Why glossy PDFs aren’t proof and what to ask insteadThis episode is an exclusive extract from the Privacy Pros Academy weekly Wednesday Expert Insights Lab. This is the space where world-class privacy professionals come to sharpen their skills, learn from real-world experience, and stay ahead of the curve.Want access to live sessions like this?Join our Skool community and unlock expert insights designed to accelerate your privacy career: https://www.skool.com/privacypros/about?ref=3319dc689ed040a89e97e2258754a1f8

In this episode, we sit down with Shaun Hastings ( a seasoned quality assurance and compliance expert with two decades in pharma and clinical trials) to unpack the most pressing data protection issues in healthcare today.From cross-border consent complexities to AI risk, Shaun offers a behind-the-scenes look at the hidden privacy gaps most professionals overlook. Whether you're advising healthcare clients or shaping internal governance, this episode is packed with insights to future-proof your practice.Discover:Why pseudonymisation isn’t enoughThe real cost of ignoring incident responseAnd how to simplify staff training that actually sticksListen now. Shaun Hastings is a powerhouse in quality assurance and compliance who has spent the past twenty years transforming data practices at pharmaceutical companies and research organisations. With a master's degree in Quality Management from Cranfield University, Shaun has developed comprehensive SOPs and led quality teams through complex compliance challenges.Connect with Jamal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmjahmed/Connect with Shaun: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunhastings/

What’s really holding you back from that six-figure role in AI and privacy?In this powerful episode, Jamal Ahmed pulls back the curtain on the exact 5-step framework that has helped hundreds of professionals pivot into leadership roles—without needing years of experience, technical expertise, or multiple certifications.You’ll uncover:Why mastering tools alone will never get you noticedThe key mindset shifts to stop being overlookedHow to build the practical, in-demand skills recruiters are desperate forThe role of network and visibility in creating opportunityHow to create a magnetic personal brand that opens doors—without “faking it”Whether you're a frustrated job seeker or an experienced professional wanting more recognition, this episode is your roadmap to clarity, confidence, and commanding six-figure roles in the privacy and AI space.If you’re ready to be headhunted for roles you once thought were out of reach, press play now.The next move is yours. If you're serious about landing a six-figure role in privacy or AI and you don’t want to waste time second-guessing your approach, book your Career Success Call today.We’ll map out exactly where you are, what’s holding you back, and the fastest path to the career you deserve.This isn’t a generic chat, it’s a focused session to help you gain clarity, confidence, and direction.Spots are limited, so grab your slots before they fill up: https://calendly.com/privacypro/apply-podcast

In this episode, Jamal breaks down how privacy professionals can assess, explain, and present data privacy risks so business leaders pay attention and take action. You'll learn:Why your role is to advise, not decide - and how to own that role with confidenceThe common sense approach to assess likelihood and impact The best way to align risks with the business's appetitePlus, real-world examples of when overcomplicating risks has cost businesses opportunities and how you can avoid making the same mistake.This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at our private Expert Insights Lab on Skool, where Privacy Pros get direct access to Jamal for real-world answers, career strategies, and insider tips you won't hear anywhere else.Ready to level up? Join the community here: https://www.skool.com/privacypros/about?ref=3319dc689ed040a89e97e2258754a1f8And if you're serious about landing a high-paying privacy role, don't miss our free live webinar on Thursday 1st May. Jamal will share the proven strategy that's helped Privacy Pros break into six-figure jobs (even without a legal or tech background)Save your seat now: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TeV5UpluREGrhWiwC4UjYQ

In this episode, Jamal Ahmed host of the Privacy Pros podcast and international keynote speaker breaks down the simple but powerful secret behind confident, compelling public speaking.You’ll learn:Why three is the magic number when delivering any talkHow to craft your message using the KFC formula (Know, Feel, Commit)The truth about what really makes an impact (it's not your slides!)How to prepare even when you don’t know the exact questions or formatThe importance of body language, tonality, and practicing with intentionA fun six-step rehearsal method that will transform the way you speakWhether you're prepping for a podcast, panel, or presentation, this episode gives you the mindset, structure, and delivery tools to speak with confidence and influence any audience.Follow Jamal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmjahmed/

What happens when a passionate human rights lawyer pivots into the world of privacy? You get a leader like Jen Luther - global team leader, AI governance expert, and one of the most inspiring voices in privacy today.In this episode, Jen shares her bold journey from the International Criminal Court to building impactful privacy programs at scale. She opens up about the mindset shifts that accelerated her career, the underrated legal skills that gave her an edge, and the one mistake most early privacy professionals make when trying to impress.We also dive into:Why human-centric thinking is privacy's secret weaponHow to demonstrate real leadership—no title requiredJen’s approach to measuring impact (and what metrics actually matter)The power of personal branding and how to get visible without feeling cringePractical tips to overcome imposter syndrome and speak with confidenceWhether you're just starting your career or eyeing the next big move, this episode will help you lead with purpose, speak with impact, and think beyond checklists.Jen Luther is a global legal team leader and board advisor passionate about growing and scaling technology companies. Jen began her career as a human rights attorney dedicated to creating positive change before transitioning to privacy, where she now specialises in AI governance, corporate governance, privacy organization, and product architecture.Connect with Jamal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmjahmed/Connect with Jen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjluther/ & https://www.jenluther.com/

If you've ever felt overwhelmed or confused by the idea of conducting a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA), you're not alone and this episode is here to help.Join Jamal Ahmed, the King of Data Protection, as he shares his expert insights on how to make your DPIAs credible, compliant, and actually useful. In this episode, you’ll discover:The steps you should take to conduct a legally valid and effective Data Protection Impact AssessmentWho should really be involved in completing a DPIA (spoiler alert: it’s not just the DPO)How to prepare and run stakeholder meetings that gather the right information without wasting timeWhy asking the right questions is more important than simply filling out templatesWhat makes the difference between a DPIA that enables business and one that blocks progressThis episode is packed with real-world advice, practical tips, and a clear approach you can apply straight away to level up your privacy practice.Follow Jamal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmjahmed/

Dive into a fascinating conversation between host Jamal Ahmed and Dr. Andrea Isoni, Director and Chief AI Officer at AI Technologies, as they explore the exciting intersection of privacy and artificial intelligence!Dr. Isoni reveals insider knowledge on how privacy professionals can leverage their expertise to become invaluable assets in the AI industry.This episode is packed with career-changing insights that will help you position yourself at the forefront of this technological revolution.Discover game-changing perspectives on:How companies are assessing AI risks and why the standard metrics aren't telling the full storyThe critical balance between driving AI innovation and maintaining robust privacy protectionsWhat's really happening with AI regulations across Europe and beyond: horizontal vs. vertical approaches explained!Dr. Isoni also shares a compelling personal story about overcoming bureaucratic obstacles that will inspire you to tackle your own career challenges with renewed determination.Tune in now.Dr. Andrea Isoni is Director and Chief AI Officer at AI Technologies. With a wealth of experience in machine learning and data, Dr. Isoni is the author of Machine Learning for the Web and the creator of Thoughts About AI by a Human newsletter.Follow Jamal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmjahmed/Follow Dr. Isoni on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaisoni20/

What does it take to build a thriving career in privacy? In this episode of the Privacy Pros Podcast, Jamal Ahmed sits down with Wolfgang Lehna, a seasoned Group Data Protection Officer with over 20 years of experience in the field. Wolfgang shares his journey from law school to leading privacy programs for global organisations, revealing the mindset shifts, adaptability, and continuous learning that have kept him at the top of his game.Tune in as they discuss:The biggest career lessons from two decades in privacyWhy trust (not just compliance) is the real currency of privacy todayHow continuous learning (including AI governance) keeps you ahead Practical strategies to break down complex privacy challengesThe power of community and mentorship in accelerating career growth🔗 Ready to invest in your future? Discover how the Privacy Pros Accelerator Program can help you launch your dream career here.Wolfgang Lehna is a seasoned Group Data Protection Officer with an incredible 20-year track record in privacy and data protection. He brings deep expertise in designing and implementing data protection frameworks within complex corporate environments. Wolfgang is known for his strategic approach to building comprehensive privacy programs and has a particular talent for analysing business processes while effectively managing risk.Follow Jamal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmjahmed/Follow Wolfgang on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wolfgang-lehna/

Have you ever wonder how some people land those dream six-figure jobs through LinkedIn? This highlight episode spills the secrets! Jamal Ahmed breaks down the exact steps to build a killer personal brand, even if you're battling imposter syndrome. He shares his "KFC" framework (no, not chicken!), and reveals how simply sharing your takeaways can open doors you never imagined. If you're ready to ditch the job hunt struggle and attract opportunities to you? Tune in.This is just an episode highlight, so be sure to listen to the full episode all about privacy engineering and building a personal brand.