In this thought-provoking episode of Identity at the Center, hosts Jim McDonald and Jeff Steadman engage in a candid conversation with security researcher Kat Traxler from TrustOnCloud. They delve into the intricacies of cloud identity management, discussing the unique challenges and strategies for securing assets in cloud environments like GCP and AWS. Kat sheds light on the importance of understanding the resource hierarchy in GCP and the nuances that differentiate it from AWS. The trio also explores the evolution of IAM tools and their applicability in the cloud, the debate between least privilege and zero standing privilege, and the ongoing journey toward securing the cloud beyond IAM. As they unpack the complexities of cloud security, Kat shares her insights on the significance of asset inventories and the impact of policy inheritance on cloud platforms. The conversation also touches on the future of cloud security conferences and the value of hands-on experiences in understanding cloud security. Amidst the technical deep dive, the episode takes a lighter turn as the hosts and guest contemplate what life might look like outside the realm of technology, revealing personal aspirations ranging from farming to bronze sculpting. For those looking to expand their cloud security knowledge, Kat recommends checking out the GCP 101 series on her blog and the Forward Cloud SEC conference for a comprehensive learning experience. Connect with Kat: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-traxler-85a6592/ GCP 101 Series (Blog): https://kattraxler.cloud/gcp/iam/101/2024/03/03/gcp-series-101.html Google Cloud Adoption Framework: https://cloud.google.com/adoption-framework Learn more about TrustOnCloud: https://trustoncloud.com/ fwd:cloudsec conference: https://fwdcloudsec.org/ Identiverse 2024: As an IDAC listener, you can register with 25% off by using code IDV24-IDAC25 at https://events.identiverse.com/identiverse2024/register?code=IDV24-IDAC25 Attending the European Identity and Cloud Conference in Berlin? Use Discount Code: EIC24idac25 for 25% off. Register at https://www.kuppingercole.com/events/eic2024 Attending Identity Week in Europe, America, or Asia? Use our discount code IDAC30 for 30% off your registration fee! Learn more at: Europe: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week/ America: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-america Asia: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/identity-week-asia/ Connect 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 idacpodcast.com and follow @IDACPodcast on Twitter.