JIBBY SAETANG’s Unconventional Path: From Watchmaker to Cybersecurity Pro in 1 Year (No IT Background or Certifications Needed)

In this episode of K.O.'s Launchpad, we explore the extraordinary journey of Jibby Saetang, who transitioned from repairing watches to becoming a security researcher on Microsoft's GHOST team. Jibby shares his path from working in a family jewelry business to joining the cybersecurity industry, with no formal IT background. We delve into his experiences with the KC7 cyber detective game, which not only taught him cybersecurity skills but changed his way of thinking. Learn how Jibby navigated obstacles, leveraged his unique background, and the role mentorship played in his incredible career shift.   00:00 Introduction to Jibby Saetang's Unconventional Journey 01:57 Jibby's Early Life and Move to Thailand 04:41 Growing Up with Responsibilities 11:13 Academic Challenges and Life Lessons 16:42 Transition from Jewelry to Cybersecurity 27:14 Discovering a Passion for Cybersecurity 35:11 Finding Flow and Overcoming Barriers 38:41 Navigating Career Choices in Security 39:21 The Turning Point: Meeting Influential Mentors 40:08 Building Confidence and Competence 40:56 Overcoming Personal Challenges 42:11 Networking and Community Engagement 43:30 The Microsoft Opportunity 50:46 Barefoot Running and Mental Resilience 01:02:44 Finding Passion and Purpose in Cybersecurity     Game & Tools Mentioned:

• KC7 Cyber - A cyber detetive game for hands-on SOC and threat-hunting practice
• Try Hack Me - An interactive cybersecurity learning platform with guided labs and challenges
• AntiSyphon Training - Affordable cybersecurity training with live courses and recorded content
• Hack the Box - A hacking platform offering real-world penetration testing labs and challenges
• Black Hills - A cybersecurity firm providing consulting, training, and offensive security services

 

People Mentioned:

• Simeon Kakpovi - Threat Intel at Microsoft (MSTIC) & Founder of KC7
• Wayman Ho - Senior Security Research Manager at Microsoft's GHOST
•  Greg Schloemer - Senior Threat Intel Analyst at Microsoft & VP at KC7 Foundation
• Jesse Itzler - New York Times bestselling author, part owner of the Atlanta Hawks, and businessman
• Sam Altman - CEO of OpenAI

 

Events Mentioned:

• DEF CON - A major hacker conference with talks, villages, and competitions on cybersecurity and hacking
• BSides - Community-driven security events focused on knowledge sharing and networking
• Blue Team Con - A conference for defenders, focusing on security operations and threat mitigation
• Sans Institute New2Cyber - A program helping newcomers break into cybersecurity through training and mentorship

 

Books Mentioned:

• Born to Run by Chis McDougall

 

Concepts Mentioned:

• Misogi - A challenging, transformative goal that pushes personal limits for growth
• Ikigai - A Japanese concept for finding purpose by balancing passion, mission, vocation, and profession
• Snowball Effect - Small actions or efforts that build momentum and lead to bigger results over time
• 4-Minute Mile - A metaphor for breaking perceived limits, inspired by Roger Bannister’s record-breaking run

 

Podcast Mentioned:

• Huberman Lab: David Goggins: How to Build Immense Inner Strength

 

Jibby Saetang's Socials:

• Jibby's LinkedIn

 

K.O's Socials:

• K.O's Instagram
• K.O.'s LinkedIn