Summary: 

On today’s episode of Elevate Your Career, Nicole talks to Johnathan Keith, a former professional athlete who has made an incredible transition into the world of high-tech entrepreneurship. Johnathan is currently the CEO and CTO of JDR Security Solutions.

He shares his career trajectory, highlighting the profound impact of his upbringing, his move into corporate America, and ultimately his leap into the technology industry.

He shares the story of how he landed his first job and how that first step propelled him into technology and cybersecurity.

Johnathan delves into career-defining moments, including his influential work with the CDC during the Obama administration. You’ll learn more about his path to becoming a CISO.

Johnathan believes entrepreneurship is part of his core identity and delves into his decision to return to his entrepreneurial roots.

He also tells of a pivotal moment in his life and how this tragic event served as a strong reminder that one should not let stress overshadow one’s life. He offers advice for people who want to follow in his footsteps, whether they are interested in a career change or aspire to a leadership position.

Johnathan also addresses concerns about AI and its potential impact on jobs.

Join Nicole and Johnathan for an enlightening conversation about securing your first job, transitioning careers, and achieving success as an entrepreneur.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• A fun fact about Johnathan. 
• How Johnathan actively promotes diversity and inclusion in the technology industry. 
• The importance of showcasing one’s energy and enthusiasm during interviews.
• Exploring different opportunities within a company. 
• How entrepreneurship aligns with his core values and passion. 
• Rapid-fire questions about Johnathan. 
• And so much more…

Quotes:

“Johnathan is the poster board for the old saying that luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” (Nicole)

“The key word is opportunity, and be prepared for it.” (Johnathan Keith)

“Not only were organizations recruiting me, I was also recruiting them.” (Johnathan Keith)

“I want to go back to my roots. That’s entrepreneurship because that’s who I am at the core.” (Johnathan Keith)

“I’m about helping people; I’m about building people up.” (Johnathan Keith)

“You don’t always need experience. You just need to have that drive and that energy, and then network with the right people who are willing to help you get to that next level.” (Johnathan Keith)

“We should see AI make jobs more efficient.” (Johnathan Keith).

Resources:

Nicole McMackin LinkedIn

Johnathan Keith LinkedIn 

Podcast: