In this episode of Unspoken Security, host A.J. Nash sits down with Lauren Zabierek, Senior Vice President for the Future of Digital Security at the Institute for Security and Technology. Together, they examine how the traditional view of national security often overlooks the people it seeks to protect. Lauren shares why national security must move beyond military and government, and instead focus on the everyday risks that affect everyone—whether that’s cybersecurity, healthcare, or even climate safety.

Lauren makes a strong case for widening the lens on security. She explains why protecting people requires new thinking and fresh policies, not just more funding for defense. She also describes the need for face-to-face connections and open dialogue to rebuild trust and unity in a fractured world.

The conversation turns to software and the Secure by Design movement. Lauren outlines how changing incentives for software companies can lead to safer products. She draws on lessons from automotive and aviation safety to show paths forward, and encourages listeners to help drive demand for secure technology across all industries.