The From Drama to Cybersecurity Episode

Introduction to the Guest and Topic

Host Allie Krings introduces Sam Disney, a cybersecurity and compliance professional at Kirkpatrick Price. The conversation focuses on Sam’s unconventional journey into the cybersecurity field, highlighting how individuals can transition from entirely different career paths. Sam shares her background, explaining that she earned a degree in musical theater and spent nearly a decade performing in New York before ultimately transitioning into technology and cybersecurity.

How Did Sam Transition Into Cybersecurity?

Sam’s path into cybersecurity was anything but traditional. After building a career in theater and performance, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted her ability to continue working in that field. During this time, she explored new opportunities and became involved in digital event production, where she discovered an interest in technology. This experience, combined with a desire for stability and growth, ultimately led her into cybersecurity and compliance.

What Skills Transferred from Theater to Cybersecurity?

Although her background was in the arts, many of Sam’s skills translated directly into her new career. Her experience in performance helped her communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and engage with clients. Additionally, her adaptability and willingness to learn allowed her to quickly gain the knowledge needed to succeed in a technical environment. These soft skills proved to be just as valuable as technical expertise when entering the field.

What Does It Look Like to Start in Cybersecurity Without Experience?

Starting in cybersecurity without a technical background can feel overwhelming. Sam describes experiencing imposter syndrome early on, as she was unfamiliar with the terminology, tools, and expectations of the role. However, she overcame this by asking questions, consuming educational resources, and immersing herself in the subject matter daily. Over time, consistent exposure and curiosity helped her build confidence and competence.

How Did Sam Build Foundational Knowledge?

To establish a strong foundation, Sam pursued entry-level certifications. She began with the ISC² Certified in Cybersecurity certification to gain a broad understanding of the field. She then expanded into IT audit fundamentals through ISACA, followed by an AWS Cloud Practitioner certification to better understand cloud technologies. These certifications helped her develop both general knowledge and specialized insight into key areas of cybersecurity.

What Makes Kirkpatrick Price an Appealing Workplace?

Sam was drawn to Kirkpatrick Price because of its strong culture and employee retention. During her research, she noticed that many employees had long tenures, which signaled a positive work environment where people are supported and valued. This, along with alignment in company values and mission, made it an attractive place for her to grow her career.

What Role Does Curiosity Play in Career Growth?

Curiosity was a driving force behind Sam’s success. She explored new opportunities, asked questions, and remained open to learning at every stage of her journey. By actively seeking out knowledge and engaging with new challenges, she was able to transition into a completely new industry and continue growing within it.

What Advice Is There for Career Changers?

Sam emphasizes the importance of saying “yes” to opportunities and raising your hand for new challenges. Even without knowing exactly how to complete a task, stepping outside of your comfort zone accelerates learning and growth. She encourages others entering the field—whether early in their careers or transitioning later in life—to fully immerse themselves, remain open-minded, and take advantage of every learning opportunity.

How Does Continuous Learning Drive Success?

The cybersecurity field requires ongoing education and adaptation. Sam highlights that learning doesn’t stop after landing a role—it continues through certifications, hands-on experience, and daily exposure to new concepts. This commitment to continuous learning is essential for staying relevant and effective in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.

What Is the Key Takeaway from Sam’s Journey?

Sam’s story demonstrates that there is no single path into cybersecurity. With curiosity, determination, and a willingness to learn, individuals from any background can successfully transition into the field. Her journey shows that embracing change, leveraging transferable skills, and committing to growth can open doors to entirely new career opportunities.