Shante Perrin on SOC Leadership, Communicating Risk, and Curiosity-Driven Career Growth

Thomas chats with cybersecurity leader Shante Perrin, who progressed from web developer and help desk roles to SOC leadership and Director of Global Security Operations.

Shante describes SOC and MSSP work focused on preventing repeat incidents through policies, procedures, customer advisement, and deploying new services and tools that improve analyst efficiency and investigation quality. They discuss the challenge of convincing customers to prioritize security before a breach, emphasizing tailored communication, active listening, documenting risk, and framing guidance around business impact and reputation.

Shante highlights interview and hiring themes such as curiosity, understanding why tools are used (not just clicking), teamwork, and cultural fit, plus using brown-bag sessions to share investigative thinking. Career advice centers on taking leaps into unfamiliar work, seeking support, and accountability.

Shante recommends David Goggins’ book "Can’t Hurt Me" and mentions journaling and self-care for sustainable performance.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

01:09 Shante's Security Ops Role

02:58 Convincing Customers to Act

04:50 Communication in the SOC

07:04 Incident Calls and Risk

09:39 Security as Business Partner

14:24 Career Growth Through Curiosity

20:01 Interviewing Beyond Tools

21:51 Curiosity Stands Out

22:45 Hiring For Likability

24:56 Humor Under Pressure

25:49 Help Desk Foundations

28:54 Learning Styles That Stick

29:56 Audio Diet And Mindset

31:38 Confidence And Speaking Up

34:16 Setbacks And Self Care

36:30 Book Pick David Goggins

38:28 Journaling And Control

39:38 Sustainable Work Rhythms

41:20 Final Thanks And Wrap