INSA Podcast
Intelligence Career Conversations
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Horace Blackman: Building a Mission-Driven CareerIn this episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, Jim Donnelly welcomed Horace Blackman, Senior VP/Business Unit Leader, Defense, Intelligence and Space, CGI Federal. He shares insights from a career spanning government and industry, reflecting on lessons learned from both sides of the mission. He discusses what it means to lead with purpose, why a passion for the mission outweighs any technical skill, and how curiosity fuels long-term growth.
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Suzanne White: Lessons on Humility, Mentorship, and UncertaintyOn this week's episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, Jim Donnelly speaks with Suzanne White, former Deputy Director for the Defense Intelligence Agency. Suzanne reflects on her path from financial management to senior intelligence leadership, sharing lessons on humility, communication, and leading through uncertainty. She offers candid advice on mentorship, career growth, and finding balance in demanding national security roles.
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The Hon. Ellen McCarthy: Trust, Leadership, and the Future of IntelligenceIn this ICC podcast episode, host Jim Donnelly sits down with The Hon. Ellen McCarthy, CEO and Founder of the Trust in Media Cooperative and a longtime leader in the U.S. intelligence community, as she recounts her unconventional journey, from freelance reporter to Soviet submarine analyst to Assistant Secretary of State for INR. In this engaging conversation, she shares lessons learned on her rise to senior leadership, reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome, highlights the power of mentorship, and discusses what drove her to launch the Trust in Media Cooperative to strengthen the nation’s information ecosystem.
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Chris Jones: Navigating the ICOn this episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, host Jim Donnelly is joined by Chris Jones, Chief Technology Officer at Nightwing. Chris shares his extensive background in the IC, his transition from public to private sector, and the importance of continuous learning. He delves into challenges facing the IC today, particularly technology adoption and the need for skilled AI and cybersecurity professionals.
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Amber Nicholas: Prioritizing PeopleOn this episode of the ICC podcast, host Jim Donnelly is joined by Amber Nicholas, INSA Advisory Committee Member and Principal Account Executive for National Security at AWS. Tune in as Amber reflects on her experience at the intersection of technology and national security. She shares her perspective on continuous learning, staying adaptable in the face of emerging technologies, and why relationships, mentorship, and putting people first are at the core of lasting impact.
The Unredacted Resume
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The Network Effect: How to Get Noticed and Leverage Your Hidden NetworkOn this episode of The Unredacted Resume, host Lindy Kyzer is joined by Dr. David Bray (The Stimson Center), Niloo Norton, and Charles Carithers (Cornerstone Government Affairs) to discuss the importance of networking. They explore how to build a strong professional network, the significance of authentic connections, and practical strategies for effective networking. The conversation also delves into the distinction between networking and community building, emphasizing the value of fellowship and genuine relationships in career transitions.
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Crush the Interview: Strategies for Telling Your StoryOn this episode of The Unredacted Resume, host Brian Drake, along with guests Kim King (DIA) and Wyetta Morrow (Collins Aerospace, An RTX Business), discuss effective interview strategies for individuals transitioning from federal service to new roles in the national security sector. They cover various types of interviews, preparation techniques, importance of self-awareness, and tips for both early and mid-career job seekers.
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Because That's Where the Fish Are!: Job Hunting in the NatSec MarketOn this episode of The Unredacted Resume, host Lindy Kyzer is joined by Murshed Chowdhury (Founder & CEO, Tech Duels, and Partner, Rapid Talent Group) and Jamie Jones Miller (Regional Dean, Northeastern University Arlington) to discuss what it takes to stand out in the intelligence job market. The conversation covers recruiter relationships, mindset shifts, and practical steps for finding the right fit.
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What Did I Just Read? Writing a Resume for ImpactOn this episode of The Unredacted Resume, hosts Brian Drake and Lindy Kyzer sit down to share practical tips to help your resume make an impact where it counts. From tackling common pitfalls to understanding what hiring managers look for to translating specialized government roles into language that resonates with industry employers, they offer clear, actionable advice to help you stand out in a competitive job market.
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Dropping Papers: 5 Things to Know When Separating From Federal ServiceIn this episode of The Unredacted Resume, Brian Drake is joined by Elisabeth Baker and Mika Cross who break down the essentials every federal employee should know before separating from service. From resume reviews and ethics filings to separation letters and clearance status, this conversation offers practical guidance to ensure a smooth and well-prepared transition.
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Who's Hiring? Employment Trends in the NatSec MarketIn this episode, Lindy is joined by COL Candice Frost, USA (Ret.), Senior Account Executive at Nightwing, and The Hon. John Sherman, Dean of The Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University. Tune in as they discuss hiring trends, in-demand skills, and strategies for mid-career professionals navigating today’s job market.