“You’re Not Secure in a W2”—Why AJ Nash Took the Leap into Entrepreneurship

Cut The Tie Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Episode 281

AJ Nash didn’t set out to be an entrepreneur, but after two decades in U.S. intelligence and years in cybersecurity, his career took a sharp pivot. When private equity reshaped the company he worked for, AJ faced a choice: keep waiting for the “right” role, or start building something of his own. He chose the latter, and Unspoken Security was born.

In this episode of Cut The Tie, host Thomas Helfrich talks with AJ about how to stop letting others define your path, the real risk of relying on a W-2, and why imposter syndrome might actually be a good sign.

About AJ Nash:
AJ is the founder and CEO of Unspoken Security and host of the award-winning Unspoken Security podcast. With 19 years in U.S. intelligence—covering counterterrorism, cyber threats, trafficking, and war crimes—AJ now consults organizations on how to build intelligence-driven security programs. He’s also a frequent keynote speaker and earned a master’s degree in organizational leadership with a focus on servant leadership.

In this episode, Thomas and AJ discuss:

• Letting go of the illusion of job security
  Private equity acquisition changed everything—and pushed AJ to bet on himself.
• Becoming an accidental entrepreneur
  With no company name and contracts in hand, AJ launched Unspoken Security on instinct.
• Why imposter syndrome is a feature, not a flaw
  If you never doubt yourself, you’re probably not pushing hard enough.
• How W-2 safety is a myth
  Even top performers can get cut when the strategy changes.
• The power of saying yes to new conversations
  AJ breaks down how his natural networking mindset helped him land clients fast.
  
  

Key Takeaways:

• You don’t need permission to start—just a plan
  When no full-time job aligned, AJ launched a business with contracts already waiting.
• Imposter syndrome means you’re growing
  Doubt is normal when you're leveling up. It's a sign you’re doing meaningful work.
• W-2 security is a myth
  Even being great at your job doesn’t protect you when priorities shift. Own your path.
• Authenticity is a differentiator
  People work with AJ because he’s real. The suit-and-tie act never matched the mission.
• Diversify your income like you diversify your skillset
  Fractional, advisory, content, and podcasting—multiple streams build real security.
• Titles don’t change who you are—just how others react
  Becoming “CEO” didn’t make AJ different—but suddenly, doors opened faster.
  
  
  

Connect with AJ Nash:
💼 LinkedIn: AJ Nash

🌐 Website: unspokensecurity.com
📧 Email: [e-mail]

Connect with Thomas Helfrich:
🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut The Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [e-mail]
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