081. Is AI helping or hurting our nation's security? Featuring Dr. Anmol Agarwal, AI/ML Security Researcher

What does it take to build the next generation of cybersecurity defenders? According to Jessica Gulick, it starts with a game. As the Founder and Commissioner of the U.S. Cyber Games and CEO of Katzcy PlayCyber, Jessica has spent years proving that hands-on competition, cognitive performance, and teamwork are just as important as technical skills when it comes to developing real cyber talent. In this episode, we explore how cyber games are opening doors for young people across the country and around the world — making cybersecurity education more accessible, more exciting, and more effective than ever before. Whether you're a student, a parent, or someone who's never thought about a career in cyber, this conversation will change how you see the field.Topics discussed: cyber games, cyber workforce, access to cybersecurity education, preparation for cyber jobs, cyber competitionStock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5

We're on summer break! Enjoy this episode re-air until we return with a new season in late June 2026.Could Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) be both a help and a major hindrance? We asked Dr. Anmol Agarwal, AI/ML Security Researcher, what she thinks! During this discussion, Dr. Agarwal provides great insight into machine learning algorithms, how AI/ML is being used by attackers, and whether AI/ML is helping or hurting our nation's security. Kennedy also asks Dr. Agarwal about her role as a security researcher and how our listeners (you!) could specialize in security research!Never miss an episode by signing up for our #CyberChats newsletter at cryptologicfoundation.org/podcast Follow us on Instagram @ncfcyberTopics discussed: AI, ML, 5G networks, quantum computing, quantum hacking, deepfakes, data poisoning, cybercriminals, security, cybersecurity, cyber chats, cyber chatStock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5

We're on summer break! Enjoy this episode re-air until we return with a new season in June 2026.Coming to you LIVE from Cyber Saturday! In this episode of #CyberChats, we dive into the world of youth-driven cybersecurity education. Casey Nazelrod and Emmett Omron, two standout high school students from Loyola Blakefield, share their impressive journeys into the field of cyber and the valuable experiences they’ve gained along the way. Joining the conversation is Alexis Davis, COO of the Technology Advancement Center, who discusses the organization’s dedication to empowering young people through cyber education. Together, they highlight how programs like Cyber Saturday are shaping the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how today’s youth are driving the future of cybersecurity!Topics discussed: cybersecurity, youth in cybersecurity, cyber education, youth programs, cyber chats, cyber chatSign up for episode drops at cryptologicfoundation.org/podcast Follow us on Instagram @ncfcyberStock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5

This episode of #CyberChats features a special talk from #CyberSaturday, where Bianca Lewis of BiaSciLab teams up with her dad for a candid, insightful conversation on raising cyber-literate kids and teenagers in today’s digital world.Together, they explore practical strategies for building healthy tech habits at home, fostering curiosity about cybersecurity, and guiding young people to navigate online spaces safely and confidently. With both a youth and parent perspective, this session offers relatable advice, real-life experiences, and actionable tips for families looking to stay ahead in an increasingly connected world.Whether you’re a parent, educator, or student, this episode highlights how cybersecurity awareness can start at home, and grow into a lifelong skill.Topics discussed: raising cyber kids, cyber smart, cybersmart, cyber safety, cybersecurity careersStock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5

What really happens inside a Security Operations Center (SOC) – and what does it take to thrive there?In this episode of #CyberChats, we sit down with James Walsh, seasoned SOC professional and former host of NCF's Cyber Pulse podcast, to break down the fast-paced world of cyber defense. James walks us through what a SOC actually is, what analysts do day-to-day, and how aspiring cybersecurity professionals can get their foot in the door – including the certifications that actually matter.But the conversation goes beyond the technical. Drawing from his background in martial arts, James shares how discipline, situational awareness, and mindset translate directly into cybersecurity. We also explore a more personal side: how working in cyber has shaped the way he approaches parenting in a digital-first world.Whether you're curious about cybersecurity careers, already in the field, or just trying to raise tech-savvy kids safely, this episode delivers practical insights with a human touch.CYBER SATURDAY REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! Register here: https://thetac.tech/cyber-saturday/ Topics discussed: martial arts, cybersecurity, Network Operations Center (NOC), cyber certs, CISSP, cyber chats, cyber chatStock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5

As Laura Nelson prepares to step away from her role as President & CEO of the National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF), we take time to reflect on her extraordinary legacy of leadership in cybersecurity and intelligence.In this special #CyberChats episode, Laura shares insights from her remarkable 37-year career at the National Security Agency and her impactful tenure guiding NCF since 2019. From building strong organizations and mentoring future leaders to strengthening NCF’s partnership with NSA and expanding education and engagement programs, Laura reflects on the people, moments, and mission that shaped her journey.Join us for a thoughtful and nostalgic conversation as we prepare to say farewell to a dedicated leader whose influence has helped shape the cybersecurity and intelligence community and inspired the next generation.CYBER SATURDAY REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! Register here: https://thetac.tech/cyber-saturday/ Topics discussed: leadership, organizational shifts, cybersecurity, cryptologic, NSA, National Cryptologic Museum, mentorship, retirement, cyber, cyberchats, empowerment, cyber chats, cyber chat, cyber careers.Stock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5

In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re re-airing one of our favorite conversations from last year, highlighting the groundbreaking work of three influential women in cybersecurity.Join us for an inspiring discussion with Dr. Georgianna “George” Shea, Chief Technologist at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies; Daria Bahrami, Head of Policy at Dreadnode and former technical advisor to DARPA’s AI Cyber Challenge (AIxCC); and Renata Spinks, CEO of CyberSec International and former USMC CISO. Together, these leaders share their experiences, insights, and perspectives on the vital role women play in securing our digital world.From navigating career paths and balancing work and family to driving innovation and shaping the future of cybersecurity, this conversation remains just as relevant today. Tune in to hear how these trailblazers are paving the way for the next generation of women in cyber.CYBER SATURDAY REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! Register here: https://thetac.tech/cyber-saturday/ Topics discussed: Women’s History Month, women in cybersecurity, career journeys, leadership, work/life balance, family, innovation, cyber chats, cyberchatsStock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5

Bianca “BiaSciLab” Lewis first gained national attention at 12 after hacking a mock election system at DEF CON, later testifying before Congress on election security. Now 19, she returns to #CyberChats to talk about how her journey has evolved since our 2023 conversation.We catch up on the growth of her nonprofit Girls Who Hack, her experience leading DEF CON’s DC Next Gen, the transition from high school into college, and what it’s been like building a voice in the cybersecurity community at such a young age. Bianca also shares insights from speaking at major conferences like DEF CON and Black Hat. Topics discussed: cyberchats, cyber chats, cybersecurity, hacking, cybersecurity education, election security, youth in cyber. Stock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5

New year. Enduring legacy.In this special re-air for Black History Month, we spotlight the trailblazers who shaped modern cybersecurity and cryptology. From codebreaking and computer innovation to intelligence leadership and diversity advocacy, their impact helped secure the nation and open doors for generations to come. We are pleased to feature Bernard Pryor, William “Bill” Coffee, Carroll Robinson, Charles Matthews, Wilhelmena Ware, James Pryde, Minnie McNeal Kenny, Floyd Weakley, Ralph W. Adams, Jr., Debora Plunkett, Brig. Gen. Neal T. Robinson, and CSM Odell Williams in this special episode.Their stories aren’t just history, they’re the blueprint for the future of cyber. Topics discussed: cyberchats, cyber chats, black history month, cryptology, cyber.

In this episode of #CyberChats, we sit down with Dr. Yolanda Reid, Vice President at the MIL Corporation and former intelligence community leader, to discuss how emerging technologies like AI are reshaping cybersecurity, national defense, and the future of work.Designed for teens and young people growing up in an AI-first world, this conversation goes beyond hype to explore responsible AI use, staying relevant in a competitive tech landscape, and what it means to protect organizations from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Dr. Reid shares insights from her work in cyber threat intelligence, post-quantum cryptography, and ethical technology leadership—offering a rare look at how defenders think when the stakes are real.Stock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5