CyberWire Daily: Greg Bell – Answering the Question of "Why?" [Open Source] [Career Notes]

Release Date: November 24, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of CyberWire Daily, host Greg Bell, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Corelight, delves into his diverse career journey, the significance of open source communities, and offers invaluable advice for early-career professionals navigating the cybersecurity landscape. Greg's unique blend of experiences—from human rights activism to academia and technical entrepreneurship—provides a rich foundation for his insights on building mission-driven organizations and fostering meaningful professional growth.

Career Journey: Embracing Twists and Turns

Greg Bell recounts a non-linear career path that spans various fields before settling into a technical cybersecurity role. Growing up as part of the generation that embraced computer programming, Greg reflects on his early passion for coding, spending "possibly an unhealthy amount of time programming" by the age of nine (00:54).

His professional journey includes:

• Human Rights and Refugee Resettlement: Working with organizations like Amnesty International, Greg was deeply involved in humanitarian efforts.

• Hollywood Detour: A brief stint in the entertainment industry added a creative dimension to his career.

• Academia: Earning a PhD from UC Berkeley, Greg explored the history of conspiracy beliefs, merging technical and sociological interests.

Ultimately, recognizing the need for a stable and financially rewarding career to support his family, Greg pivoted back into the technical realm, leveraging his diverse skill set to co-found Corelight.

Notable Quote:

"My career is pretty much all twists and turns, which I really like. You know, some people like consistency and predictability, but for me that actually kind of makes me unhappy." – Greg Bell [00:54]

Corelight and the Importance of Open Source Communities

At Corelight, Greg emphasizes the company's symbiotic relationship with open source software communities. As an open source cybersecurity firm, Corelight relies on these communities for innovation, support, and sustainability.

Key Focus Areas:

• Engagement and Inspiration: Greg works diligently to engage and energize open source communities, ensuring mutual growth and collaboration.

• Business Model Integration: Building Corelight's business model around the needs and dynamics of open source contributors is central to the company's strategy.

Notable Quote:

"Our company builds kind of like security cameras for network traffic and that we're a mission-based company that has an idea for ourselves that's bigger than just commercial success." – Greg Bell [00:54]

Building a Mission-Driven Organization

Greg draws parallels between Corelight's mission and that of the Department of Energy, highlighting a shared commitment to accelerating scientific discovery and defending critical institutions. Corelight aims to protect vital sectors such as education, finance, and communication, embodying a global ambition to both change and improve the world.

Impacts of a Mission-Driven Approach:

• Attracting Loyal Employees: A clear and compelling mission fosters a culture that attracts dedicated and passionate team members.

• Creating Meaning: Employees find purpose in their work, enhancing job satisfaction and commitment, even during challenging times.

Notable Quote:

"We want to defend institutions that matter, educational Institutions, financial communication institutions." – Greg Bell [00:54]

Advice for Early-Career Professionals

Greg underscores the pivotal role of mentorship and organizational culture in the early stages of one's career. He advises young professionals to prioritize:

1. Great Mentorship: Seeking mentors who challenge and support personal and professional growth.

2. Positive Organizational Culture: Joining mission-oriented organizations that uphold strong values and promote meaningful work.

Greg argues that these factors hold more long-term value than immediate perks like pay or job titles, as they lay the foundation for sustained career development and resilience amidst global uncertainties.

Notable Quotes:

"In those earliest jobs, jobs in your 20s, it's important to soak in the culture and the norms of great organizations." – Greg Bell [00:54]

"Choose those jobs with regard to the mentor and the organization more than the pay or the title or anything else." – Greg Bell [00:54]

Embracing Uncertainty and Lifelong Learning

Reflecting on his personal experiences, Greg advises young professionals to embrace the uncertainty inherent in career development. He emphasizes that not having all the answers is a natural and beneficial aspect of growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Enjoy the Journey: Relish the learning experiences and unexpected turns in your career path.

• Value Acquired Skills: Trust that the skills and lessons learned will be applicable and valuable in unforeseen ways.

• Accept Ongoing Growth: Recognize that both young professionals and seasoned individuals alike continue to evolve and adapt.

Notable Quotes:

"The skills that you're learning now and the lessons that you're learning will be valuable and important in ways that you can't anticipate." – Greg Bell [00:54]

"I don't have it all figured out. And it's a good thing I don't so take delight in that." – Greg Bell [00:54]

Conclusion

Greg Bell's narrative intertwines personal passion, diverse professional experiences, and a steadfast commitment to mission-driven work. His insights highlight the importance of embracing change, fostering strong community ties, and prioritizing mentorship in building a fulfilling and impactful career in cybersecurity. For listeners seeking guidance on navigating their professional journeys, Greg's reflections offer both inspiration and practical advice grounded in real-world experience.

Transcript Excerpt for Reference:

"My name is Greg Bell and I'm the co founder and chief Strategy Officer for corelight, an open source cybersecurity. Well, I was lucky to belong to that generation of kids who grew up programming computers..." – Greg Bell [00:54]