Kurt Sanger —Former Lead Attorney at U.S. Cyber Command, Cyber Law Strategist, and Appreciator of Mad Men Hats On this episode, hosts Jack Clabby, of Carlton Fields, P.A., and Kayley Melton, Executive Director of Operations at the Cognitive Security Institute, sit down with Kurt Sanger—a seasoned cyber law leader and former Deputy General Counsel at U.S. Cyber Command. Kurt, who now advised clients at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, reflects on his 23+ years in the U.S. Marine Corps and how the adrenaline of cyber operations and policy has translated into the private sector, where he now helps clients navigate legal risk in an increasingly tech-driven world. He opens up about the difference between the proactive pace of military cyber law and the more reactive nature of corporate advisory work—and why that shift surprised him. He also shares how moving to the Tampa Bay area shattered his assumptions about where cyber talent lives, explaining why it’s one of the most vibrant and underrated cybersecurity communities in the country. From quoting The Godfather on nation-state threats to challenging the 10,000-hour mastery rule, Kurt gives us an honest look at the evolving cyber legal landscape—and what it means for newcomers entering the field. In the Lifestyle Polygraph segment, Kurt settles the ultimate Chicago food debate and declares a clear winner among the Windy City’s top three treats (will he choose the casserole masquerading as pizza?). He also explains his appreciation for the stylish hats of Mad Men that he believes should make a comeback and turns the tables with a Tampa-themed question for Jack. https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-sanger-311970115/
Keywords
cybersecurity, military transition, Tampa cybersecurity, mentorship, cyber law, incident response, private sector, cybersecurity misconceptions, legal perspectives, cybersecurity growth
Summary
In this episode of No Password Required, hosts Jack Clabby and Kayley Melton sit down with Kurt Sanger — former Deputy General Counsel at U.S. Cyber Command — to talk about the evolving world of cyber law, the wild ride from government service to private sector strategy, and what keeps him grounded in a field that’s constantly shifting. Kurt dives into the fast-growing cybersecurity scene in Tampa, the power of mentorship, and why people still get cyber law so wrong. Plus: insights on responding to incidents under pressure and what role the government should (and shouldn’t) play in the digital fight.
Takeaways
Kurt emphasizes that newcomers to cybersecurity are not as far behind as they think.
The transition from military to private sector can be challenging but rewarding.
Tampa is becoming a significant hub for cybersecurity talent and companies.
Understanding cybersecurity misconceptions is crucial for decision-makers.
Mentorship plays a vital role in navigating career challenges in cybersecurity.
Military and civilian cyber law have distinct differences in enforcement and flexibility.
The stakes in private sector cybersecurity can be incredibly high for clients.
Kurt's experience highlights the need for collaboration between government and private sectors.
Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field that requires continuous learning.
Kurt finds excitement in helping clients during their most challenging times.
Sound bites
"You're only six months behind."
"We're all in the same boat."
"The government needs to step back."
Chapters
00:00 NPR S6E7 Kurt Sanger
52:53 NPR S6E7 Kurt Sanger
01:45:47 Introduction to Cybersecurity Conversations
01:48:22 Transitioning from Military to Private Sector Cybersecurity
01:51:11 The Growth of Tampa as a Cybersecurity Hub
01:54:05 Understanding Cybersecurity Misconceptions
01:57:15 The Role of Mentorship in Cybersecurity Careers
02:00:24 Military vs. Civilian Cybersecurity Law
02:03:07 The Excitement of Cyber Command vs. Private Sector
02:13:52 High Stakes in Cybersecurity for Small Organizations
02:15:44 The Role of Legal Experts in Cybersecurity
02:17:21 Translating Technical Jargon for Clients
02:18:57 Challenges of Explaining Cyber Operations to Commanders
02:22:43 Lifestyle Polygraph: Fun Questions and Insights
02:23:30 The 10,000 Hour Rule in Cybersecurity
02:29:34 Creative Freedom with LEGO Bricks
02:31:27 Tampa's Culinary Delights and Local Favorites