#376 - Understanding Device Identity in a Zero Trust Framework with Shea McGrew

29/09/2025 1h 14min Episodio 376

Listen "#376 - Understanding Device Identity in a Zero Trust Framework with Shea McGrew"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode of the Identity at the Center podcast, hosts Jeff and Jim dive into the concept of device identity within a Zero Trust framework. They are joined by Shea McGrew, CTO of Maricopa County Arizona, who provides insights into the importance of managing not just human but also device identities. The discussion explores the philosophical debate on whether machines can have identities, Zero Trust principles, and their application in a diverse and semi-autonomous organizational structure like that of the county government. Shea also shares her career journey, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, customer service, and continuous learning in IT. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted conversation on the never-ending pursuit of knowledge.Connect with Shea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shea-m-6b82a36/Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Podcast Theme00:17 Defining Identity in Cybersecurity01:34 Debate: Can Non-Humans Have Identities?01:57 Guest Introduction: Shea McGrew04:15 Shea's Career Journey and Role as CTO09:28 Challenges and Rewards of Being a CTO11:41 Identity Strategy at Maricopa County14:48 Device Identity and Zero Trust Architecture29:56 Managed vs. Unmanaged Devices40:15 Understanding the NIST Framework42:52 Balancing Technology and People43:58 Training and Partner Collaboration48:03 Organizational Change Management50:40 Future of Device Identity54:40 Debating Machine Identity01:06:36 Curiosity as an Olympic Sport01:13:00 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with us on LinkedIn:Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com