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Security Clearance Insecurity: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Federal News Network | Hubbard Radio
Millions of jobs require a U.S. government security clearance. Getting or keeping one is an anxiety-inducing process shrouded in mystery, and sometimes, urban legend. From drug use and bankruptcy to cryptocurrencies and motorcycle gangs, we unpack all of your top (or most unexpected) security clearance questions. We also talk with some of the leading experts and government officials charged with overseeing the security clearance process and establishing security policies. Security Clearance Insecurity demystifies security clearances, delivers expert insight, and answers the questions you’d never ask at work. Hosted by ClearanceJobs.com's Lindy Kyzer and Sean Bigley, security clearance legal correspondent and regular ClearanceJobs contributor.
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- 6 days ago28 min
Trusted Workforce 2.0: Closing the Continuous Vetting Gap with AI, Automation & Workforce Risk
Trusted Workforce 2.0 has transformed personnel vetting, but implementation is still catching up.In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, ClearanceJobs' Lindy Kyzer sits down with Aarti Smith, CEO of Chainbridge Solutions, to explore how continuous vetting is changing workforce risk management across the federal government—and why automation, AI, and modern personnel security systems are becoming mission-critical.They discuss:How continuous vetting has replaced the old "set it and forget it" clearance modelWhat Continuous Vetting Action Reports (CVARs) are—and why they matterThe growing "continuous vetting gap" between policy and operational realityHow DCSA's shared services and NBIS modernization could improve personnel securityThe role of APIs, automation, and dashboards in reducing administrative burdenWhere AI can support adjudicators without replacing human judgmentWhy applicant experience and secure onboarding portals are becoming essentialWhat agencies should prioritize as Trusted Workforce 2.0 continues to expand to larger populationsPlus, in a second conversation, Lindy Kyzer and security clearance attorney Elisabeth Baker-Pham discuss what every college student should know before pursuing a career in national security—from understanding the difference between a public trust and a security clearance to avoiding common mistakes that can jeopardize future eligibility.Whether you're a security professional, hiring manager, federal contractor, or aspiring clearance holder, this episode offers practical insights into the future of personnel vetting and workforce readiness.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
- 2 weeks ago28 min
The New Rules of Suitability: What OPM's Vetting Changes Mean for Your Career
The federal personnel vetting landscape is evolving—and understanding the changes has never been more important. In this episode of Security Clearance in Security, host Lindy Kyzer is joined by former OPM suitability expert Bill Pedersen to unpack the biggest updates to federal suitability regulations, Trusted Workforce 2.0, and continuous vetting.They explain how OPM's reforms are creating greater consistency across agencies, what post-appointment suitability actions mean for federal employees, how new reporting capabilities could improve government-wide visibility, and why understanding your position designation has become increasingly important. Whether you're a federal employee, contractor, facility security officer, or security clearance holder, this conversation breaks down complex policy changes into practical insights you can use to better navigate today's personnel vetting environment.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
- Jun 26, 202628 min
Building Your Brand in the Intelligence Community with Shana Cosgrove
Success in government contracting isn't built overnight—it's earned through consistency, credibility, and continuous growth.In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity on Federal News Network, Lindy Kyzer sits down with Shana Cosgrove, founder and CEO of Nyla Technology Solutions, to discuss what it takes to build a thriving GovCon business while establishing a trusted reputation in the cleared community.Shana shares lessons from her journey as a technology leader and entrepreneur, including overcoming challenges as a woman in a male-dominated industry, building strong teams, developing future leaders, and why documenting your accomplishments matters more than you think.The conversation also explores mentorship, emotional intelligence, work-life balance, AI's impact on technical careers, and the habits that help professionals stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry.Whether you're an aspiring leader, an engineer, or someone looking to grow your career in national security, this episode offers practical advice on creating long-term success through authenticity, resilience, and continuous improvement.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
- Jun 12, 202628 min
Secret Squirrel Files: Where True Crime Meets National Security
What happens when a former true crime reporter, a national security storyteller, and a clearance industry expert sit down to talk espionage, insider threats, terrorism, and the cases that changed history?In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer welcomes Secret Squirrel Files hosts Phoebe Wells and Katie Helbling, ClearanceJobs new true crime, national security podcast. They discuss the inspiration behind their growing podcast series and why some of the most compelling national security lessons come from real-world cases.The conversation explores how true crime storytelling can help security professionals better understand insider threats, espionage, extremism, intelligence failures, and the policies designed to prevent them. From the Oklahoma City bombing and Operation Bojinka to Aldrich Ames and unsolved military mysteries, the hosts share how these stories provide both historical context and practical lessons for today's cleared workforce.Plus, the team discusses the unique format behind Secret Squirrel Files, the origins of the show's name, and why storytelling remains one of the most effective ways to educate and engage the national security community.In the second half of the episode, security clearance attorney John Berry joins Lindy to discuss an often-overlooked clearance topic: neurocognitive disorders and mental health. The conversation explores how conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and other psychological disorders are evaluated in the clearance process, the importance of self-reporting and treatment, and how government attitudes toward mental health have evolved over the past two decades. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
- May 29, 202628 min
Why Facility Security Officers Are Being Asked to Do More Than Ever
Facility Security Officers (FSOs) are at the center of some of the biggest changes happening across the national security workforce—and many are feeling the strain.In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, Lindy Kyzer of ClearanceJobs sits down with Ike Rivers, NISPAC representative and advisory board member for TechnoMile Security Information Management, to discuss findings from the latest State of the Facility Security Officer Survey. Together, they explore why FSOs are being asked to wear more hats than ever before and what that means for security programs across the Defense Industrial Base.The conversation covers some of the industry's most persistent challenges, including the ongoing confusion surrounding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), the modernization gap created by reliance on spreadsheets and manual processes, and why clearance reciprocity remains a major obstacle despite years of reform efforts. Ike also shares his perspective on Trusted Workforce 2.0, NBIS implementation, and the growing disconnect between policy goals and day-to-day operational realities.In the second segment, federal employment attorney Elisabeth Baker-Pham offers practical advice for one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of the clearance process: completing the SF-86. From investigating yourself before you begin to avoiding vague answers and using comment sections effectively, she explains how applicants can avoid common mistakes that lead to delays and complications.Whether you're an FSO, security professional, clearance holder, or applicant navigating the vetting process, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges shaping the future of personnel security.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
- May 15, 202628 min
Cleared & Compensated: What the 2026 Data Reveals
Average compensation for cleared professionals has hit a record high of $126,125 — but what's driving that number, and what does it mean for you? ClearanceJobs Content Director Jill Hamilton breaks down the 2026 Compensation Report, covering why pay jumped 6% year over year, which clearance levels and certifications move the needle most, and how location, education, and experience combine into what she calls the "triple threat" for top earners. Download the full report here.Then, security clearance attorney John Berry joins to discuss one of the harshest realities facing federal employees with clearance issues: the indefinite suspension without pay, why the Merit Systems Protection Board offers little relief, and what your best options actually are when the ground shifts beneath you. Whether you're heading into a performance review, considering a move from federal to private sector, or just trying to stay ahead in an uncertain market, this episode gives you the data and the legal reality you need to navigate it.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
- May 1, 202628 min
Storytelling, Service, and Trust: Capturing the Human Side of National Security
In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Jacob Centeno, founder of Poor Bear Stories, to explore the power of storytelling within the national security community. From his personal journey as a Gold Star family member to building a mission-driven media company, Centeno shares how authenticity, vulnerability, and lived experience shape the stories he tells.The conversation dives into the unique connection between storytelling and service—how shared experiences can break down barriers, build trust, and reveal the human side of intelligence and special operations communities. Centeno also reflects on the evolving landscape of content creation, the tension between AI-generated media and handcrafted storytelling, and why depth and meaning still matter in a world flooded with content.Plus, the episode touches on the emotional impact of creative work, the importance of community at events like ClearanceJobs Connect, and how purpose-driven storytelling can extend the life and impact of mission-focused moments.Whether you're in national security, media, or simply passionate about meaningful storytelling, this episode offers insight into how stories connect us—and why they matter more than ever.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
- Apr 17, 202628 min
GEOINT 2026: Tradecraft, AI, and the Future of Intelligence
What makes the GEOINT Symposium 2026 a must-attend event for national security professionals? In this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Jim McCool to break it down.From his experience at organizations like the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Central Intelligence Agency, and the U.S. Air Force, McCool shares why GEOINT remains at the center of modern intelligence—and how it’s evolving fast.They dive into the role of tradecraft in an AI-driven world, the growing importance of data and critical thinking skills, and how professionals at every stage can get the most out of the symposium. Whether you're navigating the clearance process, exploring career opportunities, or trying to understand how emerging tech is reshaping intelligence work, this conversation offers practical insights and forward-looking perspective.Plus: tips for first-time attendees, what skills are in demand, and why networking at GEOINT can shape your career long after the event ends.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
About Security Clearance Insecurity
Millions of jobs require a U.S. government security clearance. Getting or keeping one is an anxiety-inducing process shrouded in mystery, and sometimes, urban legend. From drug use and bankruptcy to cryptocurrencies and motorcycle gangs, we unpack all of your top (or most unexpected) security clearance questions. We also talk with some of the leading experts and government officials charged with overseeing the security clearance process and establishing security policies. Security Clearance Insecurity demystifies security clearances, delivers expert insight, and answers the questions you’d never ask at work. Hosted by ClearanceJobs.com's Lindy Kyzer and Sean Bigley, security clearance legal correspondent and regular ClearanceJobs contributor.
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