In this episode of the Women in Cybersecurity Podcast, we’re joined by Paula Popovici, a passionate cybersecurity researcher with hands-on expertise in ethical hacking, OSINT, and digital forensics. Paula shares her journey into cybersecurity, reflecting on the pivotal moments, challenges, and lessons learned as she transitioned into the field.With a background in International Business Management and a strong technical focus on Kali Linux and threat intelligence, Paula brings a unique perspective on bridging business context with real-world security operations. We also explore her latest projects, her commitment to empowering families through digital safety, and her mission to help organizations strengthen their security posture. An inspiring conversation about growth, purpose, and building a safer digital future—one woman at a time.
Episode 10 is more than just another episode — it’s a celebration. In this special milestone edition, hosts Iulia, Yuri, and Alexandra come together to reflect on the journey of the Women in Cybersecurity Podcast, marking ten powerful conversations with women who are shaping the cybersecurity industry. In this episode, the hosts share behind-the-scenes lessons learned, the challenges of building a meaningful platform, and what continues to motivate them to amplify diverse voices in security. From navigating imposter syndrome and career pivots to leadership, resilience, and the importance of community, they revisit some of the most impactful themes raised by past guests and why those conversations matter now more than ever. This episode is honest, reflective, and energizing — a pause to acknowledge how far the podcast has come, while also looking ahead to what’s next. Whether you’ve been with us since episode one or are just joining the journey, Episode 10 is a reminder that progress in cybersecurity is built through shared stories, continuous learning, and lifting others as we grow.
In this inspiring episode of the Women in Cybersecurity Podcast, we sit down with Andra-Irina Vasile, a dynamic cybersecurity strategist, senior leader, and passionate mentor who has built an impressive career at the intersection of cloud security, cyber defense strategy, and human-centric leadership. From hands-on technical roles to shaping enterprise cyber defense visions, Andra-Irina shares how curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change fueled her growth across global organizations and diverse cultural environments. We explore her journey through security engineering, incident recovery, cloud security, and strategic leadership—along with her deep commitment to mentoring, coaching, and empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. She also shares practical advice for navigating career transitions, building confidence in high-impact roles, and using cybersecurity as a force for positive change. This is a must-listen episode for anyone looking to grow, pivot, or lead with authenticity in cybersecurity and technology.
In this episode, we welcome Iryna Schwindt, Lead Secure-by-Design Manager at Vodafone Group, where she embeds security controls and guardrails across digital channels and AI-driven products serving millions of users. With a career spanning roles in cybersecurity engineering, risk management, and cloud security across Azure, AWS, and GCP, Iryna has become a leading voice on AI risk management, AI red teaming, and responsible AI implementation. During our conversation, she shares her inspiring journey into cybersecurity—from her early research on cryptography and embedded systems to leading Vodafone’ secure AI initiatives—and provides actionable advice for women entering or advancing in this dynamic field. Iryna also discusses how generative AI is reshaping security architectures, the importance of embedding “secure by design” principles into AI development, and her vision for aligning innovation with ethical responsibility in the age of intelligent automation.
In this inspiring episode of Women in Cybersecurity, we welcome Fraga Tariuc, a distinguished leader whose career perfectly bridges the worlds of cybersecurity, communication, and strategic leadership. With more than six years at Romania’s National Cyber Security Directorate, Fraga has advanced from Public Relations Specialist to Senior Cyber Security Manager, and now serves as a Cyber Security Risk Management Expert. Fraga shares her insights on how communication plays a vital role in cybersecurity awareness, crisis response, and building trust between institutions and the public. As the Co-Founder and Vice President of Communications and Outreach at Secure by Design Romania, she’s at the forefront of initiatives that empower organizations to strengthen their cyber resilience. Beyond her professional achievements, Fraga leads Women4Cyber Romania as its President—advocating for inclusion, mentorship, and the next generation of women leaders in tech. Join us as we explore how strategic thinking, collaboration, and purpose-driven leadership can transform the cybersecurity landscape and make the digital world safer for all.
In this episode, we welcome Trisha Alexander, a seasoned cybersecurity professional whose career journey reflects both resilience and growth. Trisha began her path in technology as a Business Systems Analyst before finding her true calling in cybersecurity. Her transition from an Incident Responder and Security Analyst to a Senior Cybersecurity Consultant showcases how passion, persistence, and continuous learning can transform a career.
With hands-on experience from leading organizations such as Fujitsu, PepsiCo, Epsilon, Mandiant, and Google Cloud, Trisha brings a wealth of real-world insights on defending against evolving threats and advising global enterprises on security strategy. She also holds advanced industry credentials, including the GIAC Cloud Threat Detection (GCTD) and GIAC Network Forensic Analyst (GNFA) certifications, underscoring her technical depth and dedication to excellence.
Join us as Trisha shares how she navigated her professional growth—from her first exposure to cybersecurity incidents to guiding customers in proactive defense and incident readiness. Her story is one of adaptability, lifelong learning, and empowerment—a true inspiration for anyone aspiring to make their mark in cybersecurity.
In this episode, we welcome Madalina Dobre, Senior Partner Solution Architect at Microsoft, whose career journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a passion for data and security. With over 15 years of experience across organizations such as Oracle, Endava, and Microsoft, Madalina has built expertise in Business Intelligence, Big Data, Cloud, and AI solutions, supporting both private and public sector clients across Europe. Our conversation focuses on her transition into cybersecurity—a journey filled with lessons about embracing continuous learning, leveraging technical foundations in data and AI, and navigating the cultural and professional shifts required to thrive in the cybersecurity field. Madalina also shares her involvement as a mentor in the Women in Cybersecurity Program in Romania, highlighting the importance of community, representation, and empowering women entering this dynamic industry. Whether you are considering a move into cybersecurity or looking to strengthen your leadership in the field, Madalina’s story is full of practical lessons and motivational takeaways that you won’t want to miss.
In this inspiring episode of the Women in Cybersecurity Podcast, we welcome Alexa Josephs, a dynamic professional whose journey into cybersecurity is anything but conventional. Starting her career in the arts and communication, Alexa developed a keen interest in psychology, media, and the power of influence. Her path led her through marketing, film, and journalism before she discovered a passion for promoting cyber safety and awareness—bridging creativity with technology in powerful ways. Today, Alexa is making her mark as an Expert in Cybersecurity Policy, Strategy, and Cooperation at the Romanian National Cyber Security Directorate, while also serving as Co-Founder of HiveHack, a start-up that merges leadership, innovation, and security awareness. Her diverse background also includes impactful roles at the European Parliament, Eventbook RO, and the Bucharest International Film Festival, where she brought communication and digital storytelling into new arenas
Join us as Alexa shares her journey of resilience, reinvention, and leadership—exploring how creative thinking can strengthen cybersecurity, why communication is a critical skill for the next generation of cyber leaders, and what it means to thrive at the intersection of technology, policy, and human behavior.
Join us on the Women in Cybersecurity Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Renana Friedlich‑Barsky, Enterprise Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer. Renana brings a wealth of experience—from shaping cyber threat strategies at Fortune 500 companies. In this episode, Renana will share her journey navigating leadership in cybersecurity—discussing pivotal transitions, leadership challenges, and the evolution of threat management in the digital age. She’ll offer insights into embedding security by design, balancing robust defenses with seamless client experiences, and championing innovation without compromise. Tune in for an illuminating conversation about perseverance, strategy, and impact—and learn how Renana continues to drive cybersecurity forward in today's complex digital landscape.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Christina Morillo, Head of Information Security for the New York Football Giants and Enterprise Security executive with over two decades of experience in the field of cybersecurity. In this episode, we’ll dive into Christina’s journey from IT support to leading enterprise security at a major sport organization. Her perspectives on women in leadership roles within cybersecurity, and the organizational shifts needed to amplify diverse voices. Actionable advice for advancing your career in infosec—especially for those navigating non‑traditional pathways or aiming beyond entry-level roles—based on her mentorship and leadership experience. If you're looking for insight on rising into leadership, designing inclusive cyber teams, or charting your own path in cybersecurity, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom and thoughtful inspiration.
In this inspiring episode of the Women in Cybersecurity Podcast, we sit down with cybersecurity powerhouse Paula Januszkiewicz, founder and CEO of CQURE and CQURE Academy. Recognized globally for her expertise, Paula is a Microsoft Regional Director, Enterprise Security MVP, Certified Ethical Hacker, and one of the few people worldwide with access to the Windows source code. She regularly headlines major conferences like Microsoft Ignite, RSA, and Black Hat. Join us as Paula shares insights from her impressive journey, revealing the secrets behind her success, the challenges she's overcome as a woman leader in cybersecurity, and her advice for aspiring cyber professionals.
In our very first episode, hosts Alexandra Francu, Iulia Iancu and Yuri Diogenes share their inspiring story behind the creation of the Women in Cybersecurity Podcast. Born from their life-changing experience in the Women in Cybersecurity Program, this episode dives into how the initiative reshaped their perception of the cybersecurity field and opened new doors of possibility as women in tech. Join us as we explore the "why" behind this podcast, our mission to amplify diverse voices, and our commitment to empowering more women to see themselves thriving in cybersecurity. This is just the beginning—tune in and be part of the journey!
About the Hosts
Alexandra Francu: Sr Cloud Solution Architect Manager | Podcast Host, Passionate coach & team builder | Cyber, neuro & longevity geek, Wife, mom, bookworm on borrowed time (Free time currently in beta)
Iulia Iancu: Cloud Solution Architect with focus in Cybersecurity solutions, helping organizations maintain secure and reliable workloads in the cloud. Driven by continuous learning and sharing knowledge, creativity and the power of strong networks. “I believe cybersecurity is not just about technology, but about people. And I’m here to help shape that conversation.”
Yuri Diogenes: Principal PM Manager, University Professor for Cybersecurity courses, Publish Author. Yuri has a Master degree in Cybersecurity and currently working on his PhD in Cybersecurity Leadership.