Hacker Proof HQ
Building in the AI Era | 6PM in Atlanta Panel Discussion
What does AI mean for careers, GovTech, software development, and the future of work?
In this 6PM in Atlanta panel discussion, Victoria Owusu hosts Ava Toro, Jhante Charles, and Fanta-Marie Toure for an honest conversation about building and navigating tech in the AI era.
The panel explores what actually works when landing a role in 2026, AI adoption in GovTech, moving beyond "vibe coding" into production-ready businesses, the realistic future of AI in the workplace, and how to navigate corporate politics.
Whether you are building a career in tech, running a business, working in...
Building a Career in AI: Lessons From Kierra Dotson
How do you build a successful career in AI?
In this episode of the Hacker Proof HQ Podcast, we sit down with Kierra Dotson, Director of AI Strategy and Governance, to discuss her journey from data engineering to advising Fortune 500 organizations on AI strategy, governance, and enterprise transformation.
Kierra shares how she successfully navigated multiple career transitions, what it took to move from data into AI strategy, and the importance of combining technical expertise with business acumen. We also explore whether a Computer Science degree is still worth it, how new graduates can stand out...
Why You're NOT Getting Interviews (And How to Fix It) | Recruiter Nate Wylie
What does it really take to get hired in today's job market?
In this episode of the Hacker Proof HQ Podcast, we sit down with Nate Wylie, Founder of Infinate Talent and Career Hacker Nate, to discuss the realities of modern recruiting, the impact of AI on hiring, career growth, networking, and what recruiters are really looking for.
With over 15 years of talent acquisition experience including helping scale technical recruiting at Lyft, Nate shares practical advice for job seekers, recruiters, founders, and anyone navigating today's evolving world of work.
In this episode, we...
How the Wealthy Use Life Insurance to Build Generational Wealth | Bokar Diaby
Can Life Insurance Build Wealth? | Featuring Bokar Diaby
Can life insurance be more than just protection for your family?
In this episode of the Hacker Proof HQ Podcast, hosts Daniel Imhans and Olawale Shogbola sit down with Bokar Diaby, Founder of The New Standard Financials, to discuss how properly structured life insurance can become a powerful financial tool for building wealth, creating liquidity, planning for retirement, and creating generational wealth.
Bokar shares practical insights from his experience in technology, finance, sales, and entrepreneurship, breaking down common misconceptions about life insurance and explaining how...
She Won $170,000 in Scholarships and Landed a Fortune 100 Cybersecurity Job | Rubena Uyeh
In this episode, we sit down with Rubena Uyeh, a Supply Chain Cybersecurity Specialist, to discuss her journey from college student to cybersecurity professional at a Fortune 100 company.
Rubena shares how she secured internships, won over $170,000 in scholarships, built a strong professional network, and successfully launched her career in cybersecurity. We also dive into the realities of working in the field, the certifications that helped her stand out, what employers look for in candidates, and why understanding the business side of cybersecurity is critical for long-term success.
Whether you're a student exploring cybersecurity, an early-career...
We're Launching HireHack | What else is cooking | HackerProofHQ Team Podcast
Welcome to HackerProofHQ team meeting podcast where we discuss the future of cybersecurity, tech careers, and the HireHack platform.
In this episode, the team shares updates on what we’ve been building, upcoming HackerProofHQ events, and exciting features coming to the HireHack app, including the course marketplace and job aggregation tools designed to help tech professionals grow faster.
We also dive into:
• The impact of global conflicts on cybersecurity and the tech market
• How to prepare for conversations with CISOs
• Advice for beginners entering tech
• Financial education for tech p...
Making 6 Figures at 23 in the U.S. | Kofi Asibey’s Data Science Journey
At just 23 years old, Kofi Asibey is already a Senior Data Scientist at HP in the United States, making six figures while leading impactful work in AI, automation, forecasting, and data-driven decision-making.
In this episode, Kofi shares his journey into Data Science, how he built his career so quickly, and what it really takes to succeed in one of the fastest-growing industries in tech.
We discuss:
• How Kofi got into Data Science
• Making six figures at 23
• A day in the life of a Senior Data Scientist at HP
• AI...
UC Berkeley Cybersecurity Grad Left Silicon Valley to Build Her Own Company (Here's Why)
In this episode, we’re joined by Oluwadamilola Obamehinti, a cybersecurity executive with over 15 years of experience working across Fortune 100 companies like eBay and the Founder of Cyber Culture.
She shares her journey from building a successful career in cybersecurity to leaving Silicon Valley to start her own company, along with the real strategies that helped her grow her personal brand and expand her influence in the tech space.
We dive into practical insights on breaking into cybersecurity, navigating corporate environments, building a strong C-Suite network, and attracting high-value clients. Oluwadamilola also breaks down the di...
5 CISOs Reveal What It Really Takes to Lead in Cybersecurity | The Connect C-Suite Panel
5 senior cybersecurity leaders sit down for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to build a career and a security program from the ground up.
This panel covers imposter syndrome in leadership, getting fired for integrity, transitioning from military to cybersecurity, why curiosity beats certifications, personal branding for security professionals, and how trust and relationships are the real foundation of cybersecurity.
PANELISTS:
- Jo Justice — Business Information Security Officer, Leidos :https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-justice
- Dd Budiharto — Chief Security Advisor, Microsoft (Oil, Gas & Energy): https://www.linkedin.com/in/d...
Why VCs Reject Great Ideas: The Real Reason Startups Don't Get Funded
Why do venture capitalists reject great startup ideas?
In this episode, we sit down with Elena Obukhova, venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and Founder of Supermoon and Supermoon Ventures, to break down what actually gets startups funded and why most founders get it wrong.
With experience across quant finance, venture capital, and global growth strategy, Elena has helped scale fintech, tech, and blockchain companies while building a network of 42,000+ founders and 2,700+ investors worldwide.
We dive into what really drives startup success, from go-to-market strategy and product positioning to investor expectations and team dynamics.
...
From Crypto Media CEO to Founder of a PR Company
Tech entrepreneurship is about leadership, strategy, and turning opportunities into impact.
In this episode, we sit down with Victoria Vaughan, founder of B612, to explore her journey from being a CEO at Cointelegraph to building a successful PR company.
Victoria shares insights on leadership, media strategy, scaling a business, and helping brands gain visibility in a competitive market. She also explains how she navigated crypto media, built a referral-based business model, and the difference between PR and marketing.
If you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or professional looking to grow your business and media pr...
How I Got into IBM and Built a High-Paying Career in Tech Sales
Tech sales is one of the most lucrative paths in tech, but most people don’t know what it really takes to succeed.
In this episode, we sit down with Jarrett Albritton, entrepreneur, tech sales leader, host of the Big Tech Energy Podcast, and Chief Strategy Officer of Big Stage Energy. Jarrett shares his journey into tech sales, how he broke into IBM, and how to build a high-impact career without needing an MBA.
He breaks down practical strategies for navigating pressure, building strong client relationships, closing high-value accounts, and thriving in competitive environments.
...
Becoming a Software Engineer in 2026 | AI, Deepfake Detection & My Tech Journey
The tech industry is evolving fast, and becoming a software engineer in 2026 requires more than just learning how to code.
In this episode, we sit down with Arthur Bernier Jr (@bigpoppacode), CTO, software engineer, AI builder, and entrepreneur, to discuss what it truly takes to succeed in today’s AI driven tech landscape.
Arthur shares his journey into software engineering, from writing his first lines of code to building AI powered solutions, including software designed to detect deepfakes. As a tech leader and founder, he has built and scaled products, led engineering teams, and mentored th...
Navigating a Career in Cloud Engineering: Skills, Mentorship, Interviews & Salary Insights
In this episode, we featured the founder of Cloudtechexec, a cloud engineer, cloud career coach, and IT content creator known for simplifying complex tech careers into practical, actionable steps.
From interviewing IT professionals at major industry summits to sharing real insights on certifications, salaries, and career growth, his work has helped make cloud engineering more accessible and achievable for aspiring and experienced tech professionals alike.
He opens up about his journey into cloud engineering, the challenges he faced breaking into tech, how to find the right mentor, strategies for interviewing and negotiating salary, and how...
Building a UX Career: UI/UX Design, Tech Contracting & Fractional Consulting
In this episode of Hacker Proof HQ, we sit down with Justice Collier, a fractional UI/UX designer, agency owner, and educator, to break down what it really takes to build a successful UX career in today’s tech industry.
Justice shares real-world insights on breaking into UI/UX design, building a tech contracting business, running a UX agency, and using automation to scale sustainably—all while designing a lifestyle that supports both career growth and personal balance.
We dive deep into:
How UX designers actually make moneyUX salaries across industriesThe demand for UX desi...What Cloud Governance Engineers Actually Do: Tools, Skills & GovTech Career Path (ft. Abdie Mohamed)
How do you break into cloud engineering and build a high-impact career in GovTech?
In this episode of the HackerProofHQ Podcast, we sit down with Abdie Mohamed, Lead Cloud Governance Engineer at Lockheed Martin, to unpack what cloud governance engineers actually do, the tools they use, and how to build a sustainable, well-paid career in government and enterprise cloud environments.
Abdie shares real-world insights from his journey into tech — from landing his first role without a traditional background to specializing in cloud governance and long-term career strategy.
Topics Covered
• Breaking into tech...
Networking, Career Growth, and Opportunity with NexoAfrica
Networking is one of the most misunderstood skills in career development. In this episode of Hacker Proof HQ, we sit down with NexoAfrica, a career-driven community helping young professionals access real opportunities through intentional networking and strategic community building.
NexoAfrica connects individuals across Africa and globally to high-value opportunities in industries like technology, finance, and investment banking. Their approach goes beyond traditional networking, focusing on exposure, visibility, and placing talented people in the rooms where real decisions are made.
In this conversation, we break down how NexoAfrica operates, how to join their community, and what...
Episode 11 — Cybersecurity Expert & Author: Wendy’s Journey from Security to PhD
In this episode, we sit down with Wendy, a seasoned cybersecurity professional, author, and advocate for women in tech.
She shares her inspiring journey from breaking into the field to earning a PhD, and what it truly takes to thrive in cybersecurity and tech careers in 2025.
You’ll learn:
How women can stand out in male-dominated tech spacesPractical entry routes into cybersecurity this yearThe real value of a PhD in advancing your careerHow AI is shaping the next generation of tech professionalsKey takeaways from Wendy’s latest cybersecurity bookIf you’re a studen...
3 Most Valuable Business Analyst Skills (That Will Get You Hired in 2025)
In this episode of Hacker Proof HQ, Daniel sits down with Ami, a thriving ServiceNow expert and Business Analyst, to unpack how she broke into tech — and how you can too.
We cover everything from how to become a Business Analyst to real salary expectations, top certifications, and what a BA actually does in the tech world.
Whether you’re transitioning into tech or looking to level up in your current role, this conversation is packed with career tips, tools, and insider advice that will help you succeed.
💡 What You’ll Learn:
How to st...How Juwon The Techie Quit Entrepreneurship & Built a Tech Career — Hacker Proof HQ Podcast
Ready to leave entrepreneurship or another field behind and jump into a stable tech career? In this episode of the Hacker Proof HQ Podcast, host Daniel sits down with Juwon “The Techie” Isola‑Osobu, a Senior Product & Solution Design Manager who has helped more than 1 000 students land their first roles in tech juwonthetechie.com.
Juwon explains why he chose to quit entrepreneurship, how he built a successful career in tech and the strategies he recommends for beginners — including those with zero experience. You’ll hear about the biggest challenges newcomers face (like imposter syndrome and lack of mentors) and how t...
Product Manager vs Influencer Earnings (2025): Income, AI & Work‑Life Insights with Ariel
Are product managers really paid more than influencers? In this candid chat with tech PM and content creator Ariel Marie, we break down the real numbers, including how brand deals and salary structures compare in 2025. We also explore how AI tools are transforming product management and social media, and how to balance a demanding tech career with a thriving online presence.
In this episode:
• Salary & compensation comparisons between product managers and social‑media influencers
• How communication skills and personal branding land lucrative deals
• AI tools every PM should know (and how creators...
The Honest Truth About Tech Bootcamps | How Wale moved from Unemployed to 6 Figure IT roles
In this episode, we sit down with Wale to dive deep into his career transitions as a business analyst, to eventually moving into the world of I.T. auditing.
From the truth about bootcamps to the power of networking, and interview tips, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone looking to grow in tech and auditing.
🎙 Connect with Wale
Personal Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wale_baba_?igsh=cjR6c2FveXVjMXM4
Consulting Agency: https://www.instagram.com/onet_it_consulting?igsh=MWhsYWVndnplZXVjaw==
Pod...
How I Retired early from Tech as a Software Engineer
In this episode, retired software engineer Bukola shares how she transitioned from a full-time tech career to early retirement and how you can do the same while maintaining a sustainable lifestyle.
📌 What you'll learn:
Key principles to retiring early.
Smart saving strategies.
How AI can elevate your tech career.
Biggest TECH MIXER coming up AUGUST 12th, 2025.
Want to be a part of the panelist ?
Send a message to: info@hackerproofhq.com
...
How I Retired early from Tech as a Software Engineer | Bukola Lillian | Hackerproof SE2. Ep.6
In this episode, retired software engineer Bukola shares how she transitioned from a full-time tech career to early retirement and how you can do the same while maintaining a sustainable lifestyle.
📌 What you'll learn:
Key principles to retiring early.
Smart saving strategies.
How AI can elevate your tech career.
Biggest TECH MIXER coming up AUGUST 12th, 2025.
Want to be a part of the panelist ?
Send a message to: info@hackerproofhq.com
...
Guide To Becoming A Highly Paid Business Analyst | Ameena The Tech Bae | SE2 Ep6
In this episode, we sit down with Ameena, a Business Analyst expert and Coach to explore his inspiring journey into tech and how she has been able
to pivot her way into different fields.
📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Ameena pivoted her way into tech.
The strategies she used to scale through her interview stages.
Practical tips and methods for handling interviews.
BIGGEST TECH MIXER happening on JUNE 14, 2025
Get your ticke...
I Left Medicine for Tech: The Brutally Honest Career Transition Guide No One Talks About | Mayowa
In this episode, we sit down with Mayowa, an IT Support Engineer, to explore his inspiring journey into tech.
📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Mayowa pivoted from being a medical student to becoming an IT Support Engineer
The certifications you need to start a career in IT
Practical tips for handling tech interviews
BIGGEST TECH MIXER happening on JUNE 14, 2025
Get your ticket here:
https://events.eventnoire.com/e/2-pm-in-atlanta
I Went From Zero to $100K as a ServiceNow Dev – Here's EXACTLY How!
Season 2, Episode 4 – HackerProof HQ
In this episode, we sit down with Tomisin, a ServiceNow Developer, to explore his inspiring journey into tech and how he’s using his platform to uplift others.
What you'll learn in this episode:
Tomisin’s journey into ServiceNowSalary expectations for ServiceNow developersSkills and certifications to break into the fieldThe power of mentorship and networkingHow he's helping others start tech careers through his content🎙 Support Tomisin
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@tommyg3780
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Tommyworks
⏱️...
How I built my SAAS Platform as a Cloud Engineer | Khaime AI | Plato Gabriel
In this episode of HackerProof HQ, we sit down with @plato15 — a Cloud Security Engineer and founder of Khaime.ai — to explore the unfiltered realities of launching a tech startup.
We dive into:
Plato’s journey from Data Analyst to Cloud EngineerSalary expectations in cloud securityThe highs and lows of building a startupChallenges with co-foundersSupporting women entrepreneurs in NigeriaWhether you're building in tech, transitioning careers, or launching something new — this episode is for you.
🕒 Episode Breakdown
0:00 – Intro
1:00 – About Plato
1:26 – How Khaime.ai started
2:26 – Plat...
Somalia to Silicon Valley🚀 | Quitting Snapchat to building a Cyber Empire - NoHack | Yasmin Abdi
Want to break into Big Tech? 🤔
We chatted with Yasmin Abdi, founder of NoHack (and ex-Google, Meta, Snapchat!), to get the inside scoop. This Hackerproof episode dives into her journey, from Somalia to Silicon Valley, exploring NoHack's impact, her security role at Snapchat, and how you can land your dream tech job. Plus, we discuss networking tips, Afrotech, and potential partnerships. A must-watch for aspiring cybersecurity pros and tech enthusiasts!
======================
01:40 - Introduction
02:42 - Breaking into Big tech
06:02 - About No hack’s launch event...
From Struggle to Success: Allie Joy's Baddies in Tech Story | Hackerproof Podcast | Season 2.Ep 1
What does it take to succeed as a startup founder in the competitive world of tech?🤔
Join us on HackerproofHQ as we sit down with Allie Joy, the fearless founder of Baddies in Tech! Allie shares her inspiring story, from her origins in tech to the challenges she faced as a startup founder.
From overcoming financial struggles and knowing when to quit, to the importance of collaborations and lessons learned, Allie opens up about her journey and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
But tha...
How To Get Started in Cybersecurity | Kevin Mukam | Career Tips | Hacker Proof HQ EP. 16
In this episode we sit with Kevin the founder of Cybermuk.
Cybermuk boasts of a 99.9% success rates for students who have been trained in Cybersecurity and passed the Comptia Security +.
Kevin shares how he got started, what led him to start Cybermuk and how to get into Cybersecurity through Cybermuk.
Watch out for his career tips and his card game.
====================================
00:10 Introduction
01:15 what inspired Cybermuk
02:39 Comptia certification
03:56 About vulnerability...
How I Landed a Software Engineer Role at Microsoft Out of College | UMA | Leetcode tips | Ep.15
How often do College Grads Land a Tech role straight out of college?👀
In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of software engineering with Uma, a Microsoft engineer who landed his dream job straight out of college. We'll get the inside scoop on how he cracked the code and landed his first role, plus tips for newbies looking to do the same.
Uma also spills the tea on what top companies look for in software engineers, so you'll know exactly what to focus on to level up you...
How I landed a Role at NVIDIA as Business Development Manager | Tech Career tips | Sam Afriye Ep.14
Curious about the future of AI?
Join us as we delve into the world of NVIDIA with Samuel, a Business Development Manager. Learn
about their groundbreaking work, the impact of AI on various industries, and what it means for you.
Samuel gives us a peek into his work day at NVIDIA, sharing his insights on the role of AI in the tech industry, how NVIDIA is supporting the development of data science and artificial intelligence in Africa, and the potential for AI to revolutionize...
