The Human Toll of Jobs / Security with Danny Goodwin & Edward Schwarzschild

Secure Talk Podcast

In this episode of Secure Talk, host Justin Beals sits down with Danny Goodwin and Ed Schwarzschild, the authors of the book 'Job / Security: A Composite Portrait of the Expanding American Security Industry'. They delve into the multifaceted world of security work, bridging personal experiences and professional insights. Goodwin, a professor and chair of the Department of Art and Art History, and Schwarzschild, director of creative writing at SUNY Albany both had family members who worked in the security field that required secrecy. The shared formative experiences blossomed into a discussion about families and the impact of jobs on security.

Realizing that the security field has been rapidly growing, they used expertise in the humanities to explore security jobs and their impact on individuals, families and our community at large. The podcast covers their methods of capturing authentic experiences through interviews and photography, bringing a human touch to a field often viewed through a critical or technical lens. Danny and Ed recount their past roles in security and detail compelling stories from their book, including experiences of border patrol agents, military security and cybersecurity professionals. The discussion also touches on the companion exhibition for “Jobs / Security” and their plans for expanding the project globally. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the intersection of security and humanity.

Book: 'Job / Security: A Composite Portrait of the Expanding American Security Industry'. (2024) https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262048699/jobsecurity/

Exhibition: Job Security: Voices and Views from the American Security Industry. August 12- December 9, 2024 - University at Albany SUNY
https://www.albany.edu/museum/exhibitions/job-security-voices-and-views-american-security-industry