The Cyber Cowgirl™ Blog
Welcome to The Cyber Cowgirl™ Blog - Hannah’s archived collection of early morning thoughts related to cyber, defense, entrepreneurship, and professional development.
Join Hannah on this journey of discovery and discussion as we navigate the Digital Wild West together!
POLITICO Playbook
Hannah Becker’s expertise in defense and national security has caught the attention of Politico, where she was recently highlighted as a Defense Fellow. Known for her innovative and mission-driven approach, Hannah’s recognition underscores her dedication to tackling complex challenges in the defense sector.
“Disinformation—The Influence of Foreign Actors” Podcast
SIGNAL Media's Disruptive by Design Podcast: Disinformation—The Influence of Foreign Actors - Part 2 of 3 sessions. In this episode, we examine the distinction between misinformation and disinformation, focusing on how intent shapes the impact of false information. The discussion highlights how foreign nation-states exploit digital pathways to spread disinformation, influencing democratic societies and threatening national security. Tune in as experts Hannah Becker, Welton Chang, and host Kimberly Underwood provide insights into how these tactics work, why they are effective, and what individuals and organizations can do to better navigate and counter these threats.
Top 5 Cyberwarfare Threats for 2025
Cyberwarfare is the new frontier of conflict, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. As we move into 2025, it’s clear that the lines between defense and offense are blurring. To protect our future, we must adapt—not just to the threats we face but to the opportunities we have to innovate and lead. The lessons of the past wars remind us that preparation and expertise are everything. Let’s make sure we’re ready—not just to defend the ball, but to take the shot when it matters most.
Entrepreneurship: I Did It “My Way”
Entrepreneurship is a tough, rewarding journey. For me, it wasn’t a dream—it was survival. After the war, no one would hire me or my veteran spouse, so we started a business with no capital, no connections, and no guarantees. The first years were grueling, filled with failures and hard lessons. But I stuck to my values, learned government contracting from scratch, and did things my way. Now, the company no one believed in holds multi-year contracts, with big firms seeking our partnership. It’s not easy, but forging your own path can lead to incredible rewards. Are you ready?
“Going Beyond Fake News: Disinformation & Misinformation” Podcast
SIGNAL Media's Disruptive by Design Podcast: Going Beyond Fake News: Disinformation & Misinformation - Part 1 of 3 sessions. In this episode, we learn more about the rapidly evolving cyber threats related to misinformation and disinformation, and how artificial intelligence, deep fake technology and machine learning have the potential to greatly expand the capabilities and reach of the phenomenon. Tune in as experts suggest how best to counter and not fall victim to these emerging threats.
Finding Meaning in Life After War
At a Gold Star Memorial in my hometown, I reflect on what we’ve lost to the war—and how to honor his memory and the future he will never see. It’s a solemn reminder that, despite the weight of our pain, we are called to respond with responsibility, courage, and a commitment to one another. Twenty years of war, thousands of lives lost, and a chaotic withdrawal beg the question: where do we go from here?
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Is it the Nuclear Warhead of the Digital Age?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been likened to nuclear weapons as a revolutionary technology with immense potential for both positive advancements and catastrophic harm. This comparison underscores the need to approach AI with caution, ethics, and regulation. Unlike nuclear weapons, AI is widely accessible, inexpensive to develop, and lacks robust global oversight, making it vulnerable to misuse. From cyberattacks and deepfake videos to autonomous weaponry and economic manipulation, AI's potential for harm is both insidious and far-reaching.
An Entrepreneur’s Odyssey: Bootstrapping a Small Business in Government Contracting
Bootstrapping a small business in government contracting is challenging, especially as a veteran-owned company with limited resources. Through perseverance and learning from failures, I’ve navigated the bureaucracy, built a solid foundation, and secured prime contracts. This blog shares key lessons learned, insights into the industry, and tips for those pursuing success in government contracting.
What Everyone Needs to Know About Cyberwarfare
Unfortunately, large-scale cyberwarfare is a likely reality of our connected future. It’s a downside to having the convenience of instant information and communication via the Internet. This is our soft underbelly - hyperconnectivity that’s permeated all aspects of our organizations, society, and lives. I wish the threats and realities of cyberwarfare were as far-fetched as my grandma’s paranoia regarding alien abduction; however, the connectivity we’ve all become accustomed to is enabling the evolution of a whole new battlefield - cyber.
Dividing a United Nation Through Weaponized Information
My Grandmama’s kitchen table was big - she kept three leaves in it year-round so it could seat over 20 people at a moment's notice. “Feeding folks” as she called it, was one of her deepest sources of joy. She was the human embodiment of the Crowded Table song by The Highwomen. From the time I stumbled out of my bedroom at 5 AM, to when I finally turned in for the night at 11 PM, there seemed to always be someone sitting and visiting at that mahogany masterpiece. She cooked “big” - always three to four times what was necessary for a meal - so there was always cold fried chicken, a cast iron skillet of biscuits, and an extra chocolate meringue pie or two ready to distribute to the neighbors, relatives, and random new friend she’d made when they plopped down at the table.
“'Digital Chatter' — The Growing Challenge of Mis/Disinformation” Webinar
In today's hyperconnected world, the evolving cyber threat posed by mis/disinformation is more urgent than ever. Join Hannah Becker and a panel of cyber experts for the "Digital Chatter" webinar, where they’ll delve into the growing challenge of misinformation amplified by technologies like AI and deep fakes. These tools are enabling enemy states and malicious actors to launch cognitive attacks that threaten community, organizational, and national security. In this session, experts from diverse sectors will discuss the latest strategies and solutions to combat this emerging "cyber-meets-cognitive" threat and protect against its damaging impact.
Hannah Becker Featured in Forbes - “The Millennial Entrepreneur”
Hannah Becker was recently featured in Forbes in the article, “The Millennial Entrepreneur,” which explores the defining characteristics and challenges of millennial entrepreneurs. The piece addresses how this generation, often misunderstood as lazy or entitled, is carving a path defined by purpose, adaptability, and a desire for meaningful work. Millennials, shaped by a super-connected world, are leveraging digital tools and social media to create businesses that prioritize balance, passion, and social impact.
Episode 20 - LTC Scott Mann, USA (Ret): Green Beret, Warrior Storyteller, and NYT Best-Selling Author
In this powerful episode of Tipping Spears, LTC (Ret.) Scott Mann—Green Beret, storyteller, and author of Nobody is Coming to Save You—opens up about leadership, the emotional toll of Afghanistan’s withdrawal, and the power of storytelling in a divided world. An authentic, timely conversation about service, purpose, and human connection.
Episode 19 - Dr. Ben Zweibelson: U.S. Army Veteran, Defense Innovator, and Author of “Reconceptualizing War”
In this episode of Tipping Spears, Dr. Ben Zweibelson—Army veteran, military strategist, and author of Reconceptualizing War—joins Hannah Becker for a deep dive into modern warfare, paradigm shifts, and why defense innovation requires more than just new tech. A must-listen for leaders navigating the evolving security landscape.
“Digital Transformation: A Bit More Than Automation and Technology” Webinar
Digital transformation is more than just adopting new technologies—it's a fundamental shift in how organizations operate. In the “Digital Transformation: A Bit More Than Automation and Technology” webinar, Hannah Becker and a panel of experts explore the broader changes needed for true transformation, including evolving processes, people, culture, and leadership. Learn how to implement effective strategies in both public and private sectors to stay ahead in the digital race. Don’t miss out on insights that go beyond the surface and tackle the complexities of successful transformation.
Episode 18 - Brian Russell: Information Warfare Expert, USMC Veteran, Award-Winning Author and Speaker
In this episode of Tipping Spears, Hannah Becker speaks with Brian Russell—a career warfighter turned thought leader in cyber and information warfare. With 27 years of distinguished service in the United States Marine Corps, including multiple combat deployments and commands, Brian brings hard-won insight to the rapidly evolving landscape of digital conflict and national security. Brian's journey reflects the transformation of warfare itself—from kinetic to cognitive. He offers experienced insights on how leaders should adapt to complex threats and what it takes to stay ahead in the Information Age.
Episode 17 - Dr. Melissa Graves: Intelligence Expert, National Security Scholar, and Senior Military College Professor
In this episode of Tipping Spears, Hannah Becker speaks with Dr. Melissa Graves—Associate Professor and Department Chair of Intelligence and Security Studies at The Citadel—about the evolving landscape of intelligence and national security. From Watergate fascination to shaping the next generation of intelligence professionals, Dr. Graves shares her unique journey and interdisciplinary perspective. With insights on ethics, artificial intelligence, and the future of the intelligence community, she challenges us to think critically about power, transparency, and technology. Whether you're a student of history or a national security professional, this episode delivers thought-provoking commentary and practical wisdom.
Episode 16 - Marcus “Marc” Sachs: Cyber Pioneer, U.S. Army Veteran, and CIS Chief Engineer
In this episode of Tipping Spears, Hannah Becker sits down with Marcus “Marc” Sachs—retired U.S. Army officer, cybersecurity pioneer, and Chief Engineer at the Center for Internet Security. From ham radio to the White House, Marc shares how his military roots and technical passion shaped a groundbreaking career in cyber defense. He reflects on major cyber incidents, lessons learned, and the future of cyber-informed engineering for national security. This conversation offers rare insight from one of the architects of modern cybersecurity—don’t miss it.
Episode 15 - Michael Rodriguez: GWOT Memorial, Green Beret, and Veterans Advocate
In this episode of Tipping Spears with Hannah Becker, retired Green Beret Michael “Rod” Rodriguez shares his journey from Special Forces sniper instructor to President & CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation. With ten combat deployments and decades of service, Rod reflects on leadership, sacrifice, and honoring America’s longest war. He offers powerful insight into veteran resilience, national remembrance, and finding purpose after service. A must-listen for anyone connected to the post-9/11 military experience.
Episode 14 - Dr. Daniel Ragsdale: Artificial Intelligence, National Security, and Our Future
In this episode, Dr. Daniel “Rags” Ragsdale shares insights from 40+ years in national defense, exploring AI’s role in cybersecurity, military leadership, and workforce development. From the US Army, West Point, DARPA, and the White House, his experience offers a grounded, strategic take on tech’s impact on our security and future.