CyberWire Daily Podcast Summary Episode: Hannah Kenney: Focused on People [Risk] [Career Notes]
Release Date: August 3, 2025
Host: N2K Networks

Introduction

In this episode of CyberWire Daily, host N2K Networks welcomes Hannah Kenney, a manager in the Cyber Risk Advisory practice. The discussion delves into Hannah's personal journey into cybersecurity, her role in risk advisory, the significance of people in the cybersecurity landscape, and her advice for aspiring professionals in the field.

Hannah Kenney’s Journey into Cybersecurity

Hannah begins by sharing her diverse interests during childhood, emphasizing her inclination towards interacting with people rather than technology. Initially aspiring to careers in medicine, acting, or art, Hannah never envisioned a path in technology or cybersecurity.

“When I was a kid... I had a lot of ideas about what it was I wanted to do. None of them involved technology or cybersecurity in the slightest.”
[01:35]

Her introduction to cybersecurity occurred during her college years when she enrolled in an entry-level information systems course. Unlike her peers, Hannah found the lectures engaging and intriguing, sparking her interest in the field.

“At the end of the lecture I remember everyone getting up and saying, man, that was so boring... I actually really, I really enjoyed that.”
[03:10]

This pivotal moment led her to pursue opportunities in cybersecurity, culminating in her current role in Cyber Risk Advisory.

Understanding Cyber Risk Advisory

Hannah elucidates her role within Cyber Risk Advisory, highlighting that it extends beyond mere technical assessments. Her team evaluates clients' entire technology and information systems to identify potential risks and devise strategies to mitigate them.

“We look at people's technology or information systems that they have as a whole... here's how to avoid that.”
[04:55]

A significant aspect of her job involves creative problem-solving, collaborating with team members to address unique and unforeseen challenges. This dynamic environment keeps her engaged and continuously learning.

“A lot of my days are actually creative problem solving... thinking about things from many different angles when it comes to risk.”
[05:40]

The Importance of People in Cybersecurity

Contrary to the common perception of cybersecurity as a purely technical field, Hannah emphasizes the human element's central role. She believes that the essence of effective cybersecurity lies in supporting and protecting people.

“Cybersecurity is thought of as being a technical profession... at the end of the day, it really is about the people.”
[06:30]

Her commitment to fostering human connections and supporting others drives her passion for the field, aiming to make a tangible impact on both her colleagues and clients.

Career Advice and the Power of Mentorship

Drawing from her personal experiences, Hannah offers valuable advice, especially to young women aspiring to enter cybersecurity. She underscores the importance of perseverance, curiosity, and the willingness to learn over immediate confidence.

“You don't need to immediately feel like, I got this... All you have to do is know that you will work hard and you are curious.”
[06:50]

Hannah attributes much of her success to the mentors who bolstered her confidence during challenging times. This has fueled her dedication to mentoring others, helping them build self-assurance and navigate their career paths.

“I have one mentor who really means a lot to me... I feel so passionately now about trying to foster that sense of confidence in other people.”
[07:20]

Conclusion

Hannah Kenney's story is a testament to the diverse pathways that can lead to a fulfilling career in cybersecurity. Her focus on people, creative problem-solving, and dedication to mentorship highlights the multifaceted nature of the field. For those considering a career in cybersecurity, Hannah's insights underscore the value of adaptability, continuous learning, and the impact one can have by prioritizing human connections.

Notable Quotes:

• “Cybersecurity is thought of as being a technical profession... at the end of the day, it really is about the people.”
  [06:30] – Hannah Kenney

• “A lot of my days are actually creative problem solving... thinking about things from many different angles when it comes to risk.”
  [05:40] – Hannah Kenney

• “You don't need to immediately feel like, I got this... All you have to do is know that you will work hard and you are curious.”
  [06:50] – Hannah Kenney

This episode offers a comprehensive look into the human-centric approach within cybersecurity, inspired by Hannah Kenney's experiences and expertise. Her narrative not only sheds light on the technical aspects of cyber risk advisory but also emphasizes the profound importance of people in safeguarding our digital landscapes.