Welcome to the Blueprint Podcast!
Blueprint: Build the Best in Cyber Defense
Blueprint: Build the Best in Cyber Defense
Real conversations with the people building and running security operations. Practical insights from practitioners defending actual networks, not surface-level trends. Blueprint brings you in-depth discussions on detection engineering, SOC operations, incident response, and the tools and techniques that matter. Hosted by John Hubbard, SANS Cyber Defense Curriculum Lead, and brought to you by the SANS Institute.
Aug. 19, 2025

Leading by Example: Confidence and Responsibility in Cybersecurity with Zak Stufflebeam

Leading by Example: Confidence and Responsibility in Cybersecurity with Zak Stufflebeam

Click here to send us your ideas and feedback on Blueprint! In this episode, we sit down with Zak Stufflebeam, Director of Cybersecurity at a publicly traded insurance company. Zak shares his unique journey from the military to leading security operations, emphasizing essential leadership principles learned along the way. From his early days in basic training to leading complex cybersecurity teams, Zak’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. He delves into vit...

Click here to send us your ideas and feedback on Blueprint!

In this episode, we sit down with Zak Stufflebeam, Director of Cybersecurity at a publicly traded insurance company. Zak shares his unique journey from the military to leading security operations, emphasizing essential leadership principles learned along the way. From his early days in basic training to leading complex cybersecurity teams, Zak’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. He delves into vital leadership lessons, the importance of confidence, and strategies to maintain focus and calm under pressure. This episode is packed with insights for aspiring SOC analysts and leaders looking to make an impact in their field.

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