10-17, 14:00–14:50 (America/New_York), Track 1 (206b)
Language: English
Looking to start a local "citysec" meetup, or just trying to figure out what's keeping yours from being successful? Join key hosts from Chicagoland's (now global) BurbSec Information Security Meetup Network for a panel discussing 15 years of lessons learned from hosting the world's most successful meetups. Don't start yet another expensive, annoying con when what you really need is a cheap and easy meetup!
This panel will take a deep dive into the BurbSec meetup model, widely recognized for its “no cost, no talks, no egos” approach that has fostered a welcoming, low-pressure environment for hacking professionals and enthusiasts alike. We’ll examine the core principles that make this model successful, as well as thoughtful modifications we've observed from other regional groups that have adapted the framework to suit their own communities. Rather than delivering a rigid “do this because we said so” presentation, the panel will focus on the "why" behind why the choices in the framework, why it resonates, and how intentional design decisions lead to sustainable, inclusive, and low-barrier meetups. Time permitting, we’ll open the floor for attendee questions and discussion to explore how others might evolve or implement their own successful grassroots gatherings.
Johnny has been a dedicated contributor to the public forum, sharing his extensive research and knowledge to the public since 2002. Most notably recognized for his pivotal role in exposing the American TSA Master Key leaks (2014-2018), uncovering Venmo stalking vulnerabilities (2018), and being an overall nuisance. Currently, he is the Global Head of Offensive Security for A Fortune 100 food and beverage manufacturer.
David Schwartzberg is a cybersecurity expert with nearly 30 years of experience in data protection, ethical hacking, and threat defense. He founded Hak4Kidz, a nonprofit teaching cybersecurity to kids, and speaks at top conferences like Black Hat Arsenal, GrrCON, and Shmoocon. Known for his technical depth and mentorship, David is a leader in the infosec community, passionate about inspiring the next generation of ethical hackers. He likes warm hugs.
Robert Wagner is an Advisory CISO and highly respected security
practitioner, advisor and strategist with over 20 years of experience.
His security experience ranges from defending everything from Fortune
500 companies to government agencies, major universities, and
financial institutions. He is a co-founder of the not-for-profit
organization Hak4Kidz, serves on the board of the Chicago ISSA
chapter, and regularly volunteers for various hacker cons including
Bsides312, BlueTeamCon, and others.
Chris Carlis is an unrepentant penetration tester with an extensive background in network, wireless and physical testing. Across his career, Chris has worked to expand the value offensive testing provided via open communication and goal driven engagements. Additionally, Chris has presented at a variety of conferences, including Thotcon, Hushcon, Hackfest, ShowMeCon, DeepSec, CypherCon and helps to organize “BurbSec”, the best attended Information Security monthly gatherings in the US.