E61: IBM Cybersecurity Services Leader Alice Fakir on the Intersection of Supply Chain & Cybersecurity
Release Date: 07/15/2024
E82: CA Syndicated Opinion Columnist Dan Walters on California Politics, Economy, and a Way Forward
Ameritocracy
In this very special episode of Ameritocracy, host travels to Sacramento to meet with , one of California’s most syndicated columnists and author. He has covered the state’s political scene since 1975, spending over 33 years at the , and currently writes for . Dan shares his insights on California’s evolution from a Republican-leaning to a solidly Democratic state, shaped by shifts in industry and demographics. He highlights the state’s heavy reliance on high-income taxpayers, which makes its budget vulnerable to economic swings and delves into pressing issues—like...
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E81: IBM's Quantum Safe Senior Marketing Manager Ray Shieh on What is Quantum Computing?
Ameritocracy
This week on the Ameritocracy show, host Troy Edgar is in Washington, D.C. where he sits down with Ray Shieh, Senior Product Marketing Manager at for a fascinating conversation on the rapid advancement in quantum computing. Ray shares his journey from leading cybersecurity efforts at , both in Taiwan and Washington state, to his current role at IBM where he specializes in post-quantum cryptography and quantum-safe computing. Ray also discusses how he leverages his marketing and cybersecurity experience to explore potential quantum applications and highlights the importance of...
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E80: Sidebar Conversations - The Rise of Micro-Credentials w/ Troy Edgar & Anne Collier
Ameritocracy
Welcome to our monthly series where we dive into challenging topics, current events, explore faith, and much more. Expect fresh insights from familiar faces and new voices as we engage in candid discussions. Join us for open and honest fellowship, embracing diverse perspectives. Featured guest: Anne Collier, certified executive coach and CEO of , a coaching and training firm based in Washington, D.C. Topics explored in this episode: Does a degree still have value? The importance of well-rounded skills Resume building Micro-credentialing do's and don'ts Leadership development Wall Street...
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E79: Western States Petroleum Association President Catherine Reheis-Boyd on CA Energy & Economic Needs
Ameritocracy
This week, Ameritocracy visits Sacramento, California where host had the opportunity to meet with , President and CEO of the n, representing the industry’s interest in exploration, production, refining, and transportation across California, Arizona, Nevada, Washington, and Oregon. From her roots in natural resource management to nearly 40 years in the energy sector, Cath discusses California's evolving oil and gas landscape, the challenges of recent state policies on drilling, and the balance needed between environmental goals and economic stability. Her insights shed light on...
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E78: USC MBV Program Director James Bogle on Integrity & Veteran Transition
Ameritocracy
On this week's episode of Ameritocracy, host is joined in L.A. by , the Director of the (MBV) at the USC Marshall School of Business. A seasoned Army veteran with extensive leadership experience, James shares his insights into the challenges veterans face transitioning to civilian life. We discussed the USC MBV program and how it equips veterans with the business acumen needed to thrive in corporate America or start their own venture. James highlights the importance of the program's cohort model in fostering invaluable in-person connections with other students and mentors who have...
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E77: CA Communications/Political Strategist Rob Stutzman on Political Campaigns & Polling Insights
Ameritocracy
This week, Ameritocracy travels to Sacramento, California, where host Troy Edgar meets with Rob Stutzman. Rob is a veteran political strategist and communications expert with extensive experience in California politics. He is the founder and president of , a leading consultancy that advises on political campaigns, media relations, and crisis communications. Stutzman is well-known for his role as the deputy chief of staff for communications to former California Governor . His expertise in managing high-profile campaigns and navigating complex political landscapes makes him a key figure in...
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E76: LA Angels Manager of Security JB Jaso on Sports Management and Community Engagement
Ameritocracy
In this episode of Ameritocracy, host Troy Edgar meets with JB Jaso at our L.A. studio. JB, a former US Army veteran, who made the successful transition from military service to a leadership role in the sports industry. From his Long Beach roots, to serving his country and now overseeing security for the Los Angeles Angels, we look into the challenges and rewards of his military service, including his expertise in Army’s (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives) unit and how he prepared for post-service life. JB also discusses Major League Baseball stadium security and...
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E75: Building A Nation - Henry Ford, the Automotive Innovator
Ameritocracy
This week on Ameritocracy, host Troy Edgar delves into the life of automotive pioneer Henry Ford. From his humble beginning on a Michigan farm to his role in revolutionizing transportation, Ford's story is a testament to innovation. We'll explore how his development of the Model T and the assembly line made cars more accessible, transforming the way people lived and worked. However, we'll also examine the darker side of his legacy, including his controversial views and his complex relationship with labor unions. Join us for insights into Ford's philosophies on wealth, society, and...
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E74: Author Jennifer Pahlka on Recoding America and the Intersection of Government and Technology
Ameritocracy
This week on the Ameritocracy show, host Troy Edgar is joined in Washington, D.C. by Author, , a leading voice in transforming government for the digital age. They discuss Jen’s New York Times-acclaimed book, "" Jen also helped establish the while serving as U.S. Deputy Chief Technology Officer. She is currently the co-founder of , a non-profit organization assisting governments, nonprofits, and public entities in responding quickly to critical public needs. She is a Senior Fellow at both the and think tanks in Washington, D.C. Follow Jen on Substack at , where she...
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E73: TSA CFO Holly Mehringer on Effectively Working with Congress, OMB, and Political Leadership
Ameritocracy
This week, Ameritocracy is in Washington, D.C. where host Troy Edgar is joined by Holly Mehringer, Assistant Administrator and Chief Financial Officer for the . Holly shares her incredible journey from Massillon, Ohio, and her 18-year civil service career in the , her transition to the , and her current role as the CFO for TSA, managing the agency’s $11 billion budget. Holly discusses the challenges and rewards of her role and the importance of effective communication and collaboration with key stakeholders, including OMB and Congress. Her passion for her work, leadership, and...
info_outlineThis week on Ameritocracy, Troy is joined in Washington D.C. by IBM’s Federal Cybersecurity Services Leader Alice Fakir. They talk about their roles at IBM, focusing on the intersection of supply chain and cybersecurity.
Alice discusses how AI is transforming cyber defense strategies and explains the concept and purpose of a "cyber range" and how it is used for training cybersecurity professionals.
Lastly, Alice and Troy break down the policy role of the White House and the Department of Commerce and the importance of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, better known as NIST. Alice provides a great overview of the careers available in cybersecurity and discusses the potential opportunities for our US veterans.
Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.