Episode 25 Summary – CFD Podcast: Guideline J

In this episode, Tabetha Baume explains Guideline J: Criminal Conduct, emphasizing that a criminal history does not automatically disqualify someone from a security clearance. What matters most is honest disclosure, time passed, and demonstrated rehabilitation.

Through real case examples, she shows how adjudicators evaluate everything from DUIs and juvenile records to dismissed charges and felonies, and why failure to disclose is often more damaging than the offense itself. Her key takeaway: mistakes can be mitigated, but dishonesty creates serious clearance risk.

Episode 24 Summary – CFD Podcast: Guideline I

In this episode Tabetha Baume breaks down one of the most misunderstood areas of the clearance process – mental health under Guideline I. She emphasizes that seeking treatment, taking medication, or going to therapy does not disqualify someone from holding a clearance, and in most cases is viewed positively as responsible, proactive behavior.

Through real case examples, Tabetha explains how adjudicators distinguish between treated and unmanaged conditions, and how factors like counseling, medication compliance, hospitalization, or untreated symptoms are evaluated. She clarifies what applicants do and do not need to report on the SF-86 and dispels common myths that prevent cleared personnel from getting help. Her message is clear: mental health care supports clearance eligibility, while untreated conditions and dishonesty create risk.

Episode 23 Summary – CFD Podcast: Guideline H

In this episode Tabetha Baume explains how drug involvement impacts security clearances under Guideline H. She breaks down why illegal drug use remains a disqualifying concern, even in states where marijuana is legal, and stresses that honesty and cessation are key to overcoming past use.

Through real examples, she shows how limited experimentation, prescription misuse, addiction recovery, and drug use while cleared are evaluated differently. Tabetha also clarifies what applicants must report on the SF-86 and addresses misconceptions fueled by recent marijuana policy changes. Her message is simple: past drug use can be mitigated with truth and time, but current use and dishonesty remain serious clearance risks.