explore the past, present, and future of cybersecurity across government, critical infrastructure, and everyday life. With 26 years at the FBI, senior leadership at CISA, and her current mission at ICIT, Valerie brings unmatched clarity to the threats shaping our world—from nation-state attacks on rural water systems to AI-enabled scams targeting vulnerable populations.

Valerie reflects on why critical infrastructure is now a primary battleground, how bipartisan policy work shaped U.S. cyber readiness, and why the private sector—not government—will be on the front lines of future conflicts. She also shares her personal journey as the daughter of South Korean immigrants, the gratitude that shaped her service, and the emotional weight of protecting the country that gave her family a second chance.

Beyond cyber, Joey and Valerie discuss reading habits, mental health, misinformation, and the dangers social media poses to young people. Valerie also offers a heartfelt perspective on leadership, longevity, habits, exercise, and earning success through consistency—not perfection.

🌟 Top 3 Highlights:

🌎 Why critical infrastructure is now a global battleground for nation-state cyber conflict

🏛️ The inside story of cyber legislation, CISA, and bipartisan national security

💡 How habits, service, and gratitude shape leadership and personal growth