Security Insights for Cleared Professionals
Cleared for Discussion breaks down the complex world of security clearances into digestible, actionable insights. Whether you're new to the cleared community or a seasoned professional, our episodes provide the knowledge you need to succeed.
Where to Listen
About the Podcast
Cleared for Discussion is the essential podcast for security clearance professionals, defense contractors, and government employees working with classified information.
Each episode delivers practical guidance on the topics that matter most to your career and security responsibilities—from getting your first clearance to managing complex compliance requirements.
What You'll Learn:
Security Clearance Process: Navigate investigations, adjudications, and appeals
Personnel Security: Understand your ongoing responsibilities and reporting requirements
Facility Security: Master NISPOM compliance and secure area management
Information Security: Handle classified materials and prevent spillage incidents
Advanced Topics: ITAR compliance, counterintelligence awareness, and SCIF operations
Why Listen?
10-minute episodes fit your busy schedule
Practical advice you can use immediately
Real-world examples from experienced professionals
Current information on evolving regulations and requirements
Subscription episodes give you a deeper dive into expanded topics
This Week’s Episode
Episode 10 Summary – CFD Podcast: Understanding the SF-86 Form Pt.2
In this episode, Tabetha Baume draws on her experience reviewing over 100,000 security clearance forms to demystify one of the most complex steps in the clearance process—the SF-86. She begins by highlighting the vital role of the Facility Security Officer (FSO), describing them as the applicant’s guide through an often intimidating process. A good FSO, she explains, helps applicants understand every section of the form, avoid common pitfalls, and feel comfortable asking questions without fear of judgment.
Tabetha then walks listeners through key best practices for completing the SF-86: be honest, thorough, and patient. She offers specific advice for difficult sections like residence history, foreign contacts, finances, and mental health, reminding applicants that transparency and preparation prevent costly delays. Above all, she reassures listeners that with integrity, careful attention, and the support of their FSO, anyone can successfully complete the process. The episode closes with a reminder to veterans and military families about Code of Support Foundation: PATRIOTink, a free national resource database from the Code of Support Foundation.
CLEARED FOR DISCUSSION The Security Education America's Defenders Deserve
From Hawaii's Pacific shores to the Pentagon's halls, one voice is transforming how America's 5.1 million security clearance holders learn, grow, and excel.
Broadcasting from the beautiful Waianae Coast, national security consultant Tabetha Baume-Chandler brings 25+ years of federal government, industrial, and corporate security expertise directly to your career.
This isn't just another podcast. This is your competitive advantage.
NEED TO KNOW SUBSCRIPTION ACCESS
The Reality
YOUR CURRENT SITUATION:
Struggling to find practical security guidance you can actually use?
Tired of generic training that doesn't address real-world challenges?
Need to demonstrate professional development for DCSA audits?
Looking for career advancement in the national security field?
Want to connect with peers who understand your unique challenges?
WE GET IT. WE'VE BEEN THERE.
After 25 years in this field, I've seen brilliant professionals held back by knowledge gaps that shouldn't exist. I've watched careers stall because of preventable mistakes. I've seen security programs fail because leadership didn't have the right guidance.
That ends now.
The Solution
CLEARED FOR DISCUSSION DELIVERS:
🎧 WEEKLY FREE EPISODES - Essential knowledge for busy professionals (10-15 minutes)
🚀 NEED-TO-KNOW DEEP-DIVES - Comprehensive professional development (30-45 minutes)
📋 AUDIT-READY RESOURCES - Printable worksheets and training materials that earn DCSA credit
🎯 CAREER ACCELERATION - Strategic guidance from someone who's navigated every level
🌺 COMMUNITY CONNECTION - Join thousands of security professionals who "get it"
READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR SECURITY CAREER?
Start with our free weekly episodes, then upgrade to Need-to-Know when you're ready to accelerate your professional development.
Because your career deserves better than guesswork.
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Meet the Host
Tabetha Baume-Chandler
Host & Executive Producer
Tabetha Baume-Chandler has over 25 years of experience in national security, having served as consultant to industry and government across the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and private sector. As the former owner of FSO TO GO and Facility Technology Services, Inc., and current owner of several security and technology related commercial and federally focused product and service companies, and as a certified FSO, Tabetha understands the practical challenges facing security professionals and facilities.
Tabetha combines deep technical knowledge with practical experience implementing security programs across a wide range of classified environments. After leading security operations for hundreds of defense contractors within her consulting firms, Tabetha now dedicates time to elevating the security community through consulting, training, and producing the Cleared for Discussion podcast from the Westside of Oahu, Hawaii.
Our Expertise
Personnel Security & Clearances
Counterintelligence Awareness
Facility Security Officer Best Practices
Insider Threat Program Management
Security Vulnerability Assessments
Government Security Audits & Inspections
Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
International Security Requirements
Secure Area Design, Construction, Accreditation and Compliance