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Episode 29

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Published on:

28th Apr 2026

AI, Cyber Skills & The Future of Security Training with Hack The Box's Gerasimos

In this special edition recorded live at RSA Conference, Joseph Carson is joined by Gerasimos Marketos (gmar), Chief Product Officer at Hack The Box.

They explore how AI is reshaping cybersecurity skills, why traditional education is struggling to keep up, and how hands-on platforms are redefining how defenders and ethical hackers are trained. From real-world fraud detection to AI-powered CTF competitions, this episode dives into the evolving relationship between humans and machines in cybersecurity.

🔑 Key Themes & Topics

  • AI vs Humans in cybersecurity competitions
  • Why AI is an accelerator, not a replacement
  • The evolution from traditional training → hands-on gamified learning
  • Closing the cybersecurity skills gap
  • Red, Blue, and Purple team upskilling
  • AI governance, risk, and agentic threats
  • The future of cybersecurity careers and hiring

⏱️ Chapters

  • 00:00 – Introduction & RSA Conference insights
  • 02:00 – GMar’s journey: Data → Fraud → Cybersecurity
  • 06:30 – Who and What is Hack The Box?
  • 10:30 – AI vs Humans: CTF research findings
  • 13:00 – AI as a productivity multiplier
  • 15:30 – Real-world example: AI winning competitions
  • 16:00 – RSAC trends: AI everywhere
  • 17:00 – AI governance & emerging risks
  • 18:00 – AI for security vs security for AI
  • 19:00 – Staying relevant in cybersecurity

🚀 Hack The Box Explained

Hack The Box is a cybersecurity upskilling platform offering:

  • 🎓 Academy – Structured learning paths
  • 🧩 Challenges & Labs – Hands-on environments
  • 🏁 CTFs (Capture The Flag) – Competitive exercises
  • 🏢 Pro Labs – Enterprise-scale simulations
  • 🔎 Talent Search – Connecting skilled professionals with employers

It supports:

  • Red Teams (Offense)
  • Blue Teams (Defense)
  • Purple Teams (Collaboration)

Resources:

https://www.hackthebox.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmarketos/

https://www.hackthebox.com/ai-augmented-cyber-workforce-report

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About the Podcast

Security by Default
Security by Default is a cybersecurity podcast hosted by Joseph Carson, a renowned ethical hacker and security expert. Each episode dives into the latest security trends.
Security by Default is a cybersecurity podcast hosted by Joseph Carson, a renowned ethical hacker and security expert. Each episode dives into the latest security trends, real-world threats, and practical advice for staying safe in the digital world. With insightful interviews and clear explanations, Joseph makes complex topics accessible for both IT professionals and curious listeners alike.

About your host

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Joseph Carson

I am a distinguished cybersecurity professional with over 30 years of experience in enterprise security and infrastructure.

Throughout my career, I have been an active contributor to the cybersecurity community, serving as an educator, ethical hacker, and speaker at global conferences. I hold both the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certifications as well as advise various governments, critical infrastructure organizations, and industries such as finance and transportation on cybersecurity matters.
I am the author of "Cybersecurity for Dummies," a book that has gained global recognition for helping companies integrate people, processes, and technology to strengthen their defense against cyberattacks. The book has over 50,000 readers worldwide and provides a straightforward approach to understanding cybersecurity.

In addition to my writing, I have authored numerous articles and research papers, contributing to publications such as The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Dark Reading, and CSO Magazine. I also host the bi-weekly podcast "Security by Default" which offers insights from leading cybersecurity experts and discusses best practices for navigating security challenges.
I am dedicated to educating the next generation of cybersecurity leaders and his commitment to building a safer internet have made him a respected figure in the cybersecurity community.