When You Stare Into the Abyss
An uncomfortable truth about working in this field is that hunting down the bad guys often means thinking like a bad guy.
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The (In)Security Blog
The security field is full of stories with fascinating characters. I’ve had my fair share of strange jobs in this industry, but my favorite so far has been storyteller.
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Whether it's an expert interview or perspectives from my own career, I aim to take a multidisciplinary approach to everything I explore.
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About me: I'm a dual American-Israeli citizen who served in the Israeli military and currently works in the U.S. defense sector in the Washington, D.C. area.
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Jessica Lauren Walton
- Apr 16
- 5 min
When Fear Feels Like a Heart Attack
Self-awareness is the compass that guides us through the labyrinth of our minds, allowing us to navigate anxiety with clarity.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Sep 25, 2023
- 2 min
Breaking Barriers: The Unexpected Woman in Executive Protection
Born in Albania, raised in Greece: This female security agent is challenging stereotypes with her global protection services.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Aug 30, 2023
- 2 min
A CIA Officer's Insights Into the Psychology of Espionage
Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a spy? A senior case officer from the CIA discusses mindset, ethics, and resilience.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Aug 15, 2023
- 2 min
Finding Mastery: High Performance Psychology for the Security Field
An industry visionary psychologist specializing in high performance & elite sports shares tips for security professionals.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jul 10, 2023
- 2 min
Protector Trailblazer, Branding Badass
An executive protection agent serving celebrities and other high-level figures talks branding, video, and career development.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- May 19, 2023
- 2 min
An Unusual Discussion on America, Israel, & the Judaic Values We Share
Michael Whidden of American Tributaries interviews me about Judeo-Christian values, the effects of war, and community unity.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- May 9, 2023
- 7 min
Kill Your Clone & Other Unconventional Career Advice
Challenging situations are ultimately an opportunity to rise to the challenge.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Apr 24, 2023
- 13 min
Confronting the Stigma of Mental Illness
Initially a source of shame, a successful psychology professor finally came out publicly about his struggles with bipolar disorder.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Mar 14, 2023
- 2 min
The Mental Health Reality Behind the Badge
A senior police officer talks about personal challenges following a shooting incident and the mental health revolution among the forces.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Feb 27, 2023
- 12 min
Make Yourself Hack-Proof: Tips From a CIA Agent
Hacking attempts can occur face-to-face, when you’re least expecting them. A former CIA agent explains how to protect yourself.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jan 25, 2023
- 11 min
The Soldier Who Spoke Out
Breaking the stigma around mental health in the military will require leadership speaking out and setting the right example.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jan 16, 2023
- 6 min
A Message for Gen Z on Dealing With Uncertainty
Chaos is a natural part of life. We owe it to ourselves to create a game plan for managing it properly.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jan 9, 2023
- 11 min
A Soldier-Turned-Therapist Stops PTSD in Its Tracks
As a security community, we must learn how to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to treating PTSD.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Dec 13, 2022
- 12 min
The Refugees Among Us Are Just Like Us
Security professionals across the spectrum can benefit from understanding how conflict affects civilians on the ground.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Dec 5, 2022
- 6 min
3 Quirky PR Ideas to Help Military Recruitment
Be entertaining, be inspiring, be real. There is already an inspiring treasure trove of stories in our military; leverage them right.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Nov 28, 2022
- 6 min
Some Careers Take the Road Less Traveled
Some of us are straight shooters from college to career to retirement, while others struggle to find our place.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Nov 14, 2022
- 7 min
Views on Warrior Culture & Veteran Mental Health
A seasoned military professional's perspective on why veterans may avoid seeking counseling.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Oct 25, 2022
- 5 min
Overcoming the Curse of Knowledge in Cybersecurity
Confusion leads to alienation, but connection leads to comprehension. With the right story, we can get the message across.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Oct 18, 2022
- 6 min
The Lies We Tell Ourselves: A Soldier With PTSD
The lie of required perfection plagues many security professionals. For some, it will break them.
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