Want to build stronger client relationships while navigating the complexities of modern cybersecurity? In this episode of Channel Security Secrets, I sit down with Stacey Horne, President at Stillwater Ecosystem, to talk about the human side of cybersecurity, trust, empathy, and communication.

Stacey shares how humility and relationship-building are key drivers of business success in a high-stakes industry. We dive into the value of simplifying security conversations for executives, proactively strengthening defenses, and working within a strong partner ecosystem. From AI efficiency to risk-based communication, this episode is packed with practical strategies for trusted advisors.

Takeaways

• Why trust and empathy are essential for building lasting client relationships in cybersecurity.
• How simplifying cyber risk for executives improves decision-making and buy-in.
• What it means to take proactive cybersecurity steps that deliver real business ROI.
• Why a trusted partner ecosystem is critical to addressing evolving cyber risks.
• How to use AI thoughtfully while prioritizing data privacy and team training.

Find all episodes, show notes, and resources at: https://www.cdg.io/podcast/

Partner with us: https://www.cdg.io/partner-with-cyber-defense-group/

Quote of the Show

• “ The ability to be known allows for trust to build, and that's one of those key things that I've tried to base my relationships on as one is getting to know folks and then earning their trust over time.” - Stacey Horne

Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-horne-585b346/  
• Company website: https://stillwater-ecosystem.com/ 

Ways to Tune In

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1gIKsOyorKMzQA7wxck4dH?si=ff617df387aa401c 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/channel-security-secrets/id1826825461 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8703d3a3-4128-4691-8862-cb847f53f776/channel-security-secrets 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChannelSecuritySecrets 

What does it really take to earn a customer's trust in today’s cybersecurity landscape? In this episode of Channel Security Secrets, I sit down with Tony Pietrocola, President at AgileBlue, to explore how a customer-obsessed mindset drives long-term success, not just in sales, but in lasting partnerships.

Tony unpacks how Trusted Advisors can build trust over time, start valuable security conversations even without deep technical knowledge, and use AI as a tool for smarter detection and response. From hiring exceptional talent to protecting clients through real-world challenges, Tony brings actionable wisdom and personal experience that will level up your strategy.

Takeaways

• Why customer obsession is key to long-term trust and business resilience in cybersecurity.
• How Trusted Advisors can confidently start security conversations and bring in experts as needed.
• Why retaining top talent is critical for strong service and customer confidence.
• How AI acts as a force multiplier to boost speed, accuracy, and human productivity.
• What Tony’s own SIM-swapping experience reveals about real-world cyber threats and readiness.

Find all episodes, show notes, and resources at: https://www.cdg.io/podcast/

Partner with us: https://www.cdg.io/partner-with-cyber-defense-group/

Quote of the Show

• “If you obsess over your customers, I don't see how you can't be successful.” - 

Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonypietrocola/  
• Twitter: https://x.com/tpietrocola  
• Company website: https://agileblue.com/ 

Ways to Tune In

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1gIKsOyorKMzQA7wxck4dH?si=ff617df387aa401c 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/channel-security-secrets/id1826825461 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8703d3a3-4128-4691-8862-cb847f53f776/channel-security-secrets 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChannelSecuritySecrets 

Ready to demystify cybersecurity and lead stronger, smarter conversations with clients? In this episode of Channel Security Secrets, I sit down with Rick Mischka, Cybersecurity SME at AVANT Communications and former U.S. Army Special Forces professional. Rick brings a unique perspective on translating complex security concepts into business-aligned value for trusted advisors and their customers.

We explore how asking the right questions, focusing on people and processes over just tools, and embracing continuous learning can elevate your cybersecurity approach. From simplifying security language to promoting mental health in high-stress roles, Rick’s insights are a must-hear for channel leaders looking to deepen their impact.

Takeaways

• How translating technical jargon into business language creates more effective client conversations.
• Why services and process-driven solutions reduce alert fatigue and improve security outcomes.
• What asking open-ended, business-focused questions reveals about true customer needs.
• Why mental health and self-awareness are critical for sustainable leadership in cybersecurity.
• How AI can be used thoughtfully for smarter automation and data correlation.

Find all episodes, show notes, and resources at: https://www.cdg.io/podcast/

Partner with us: https://www.cdg.io/partner-with-cyber-defense-group/

Quote of the Show

• “ My biggest push to the market is stop talking about technology, the technology changes every 18 months. Talk about the humans. ” - Rick Mischka

Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-mischka/  
• Company website: https://goavant.net/ 

Ways to Tune In

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1gIKsOyorKMzQA7wxck4dH?si=ff617df387aa401c 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/channel-security-secrets/id1826825461 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8703d3a3-4128-4691-8862-cb847f53f776/channel-security-secrets 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChannelSecuritySecrets 

Ready to unlock long-term success in the channel? In this episode of Channel Security Secrets, I sit down with Kameron Olsen, President at The Channel Advisors, to explore what it takes to thrive in today’s cybersecurity landscape.

Kameron shares the critical mindset shifts needed to succeed, from adopting an ownership mentality to bridging the cybersecurity knowledge gap with confidence. We dig into how solution-based selling, continuous education, and strong mentorship can transform the way you build relationships and close deals in the channel. If you’re looking to take control of your growth and lead with purpose, this episode is your playbook.

Takeaways

• Why defining your core values leads to better business and career decisions.
• How consistent follow-up sets high-performing trusted advisors apart.
• What it means to adopt an owner’s mindset and take full responsibility for outcomes.
• How leveraging expert support bridges the cybersecurity knowledge gap.
• Why a systematic, programmatic approach to security outperforms one-off solutions.

Find all episodes, show notes, and resources at: https://www.cdg.io/podcast/

Partner with us: https://www.cdg.io/partner-with-cyber-defense-group/

Quote of the Show
“ The channel is a great place to be. The future's bright and as long as you stay ahead of it and you put in time, learning, and education, the world's our oyster at this point.” - Kameron Olsen

Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kameronolsen/  
• Company website: https://www.thechanneladvisors.com/ 

Ways to Tune In

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1gIKsOyorKMzQA7wxck4dH?si=ff617df387aa401c 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/channel-security-secrets/id1826825461 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8703d3a3-4128-4691-8862-cb847f53f776/channel-security-secrets 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChannelSecuritySecrets 

Welcome to Channel Security Secrets. Join host, Lou Rabon, each week to expose the untold secrets and critical insights from the minds shaping the future of cybersecurity sales in the trusted advisor channel. Channel Security Secrets is brought to you by Cyber Defense Group, on a mission to shift cybersecurity from reactive to resilient.