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In this month's installment, Toni De La Fuente shares his journey into cybersecurity, detailing his early experiences with computers and his passion for hacking. He discusses the creation of Prowler, an open-source cloud security tool, and its differences from commercial solutions. The conversation explores cloud security challenges, the importance of open-source solutions, and the dynamics of scaling a startup. Toni also emphasizes the significance of passion in one's career and offers advice for aspiring tech professionals.

And yes...we also talk about his LOVE for Iron Maiden ;-)

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In this episode, Matt interviews Bel Lepe, CEO and co-founder of Cerby, discussing the challenges and opportunities in identity security. They explore the significance of disconnected applications, the impact of shadow IT, and the importance of automation and AI in enhancing security practices. Bel shares insights from his previous experience at Ooyala and the lessons learned in building Cerby, including the recent Series B funding and future plans for the company.

Takeaways

• Disconnected applications pose significant risks in identity management.
• Shadow IT is becoming a major part of the IT landscape, not just a side issue.
• The startup journey involves learning from past experiences and adapting strategies.
• The human element remains a critical factor in cybersecurity incidents.

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In this conversation, Tammy Klotz discusses her journey as a leader and author, focusing on her book 'Leading with Empathy and Grace.' She shares insights on the importance of empathy, vulnerability, and authenticity in leadership and the challenges and rewards of writing a book. The discussion highlights the significance of acknowledging personal lives in the workplace and the foundational role of trust in professional relationships. If you are an aspiring leader in Cyber, this episode is for you. Tammy shares her secrets to successful leadership.

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In this conversation, MK Palmore shares insights from his diverse leadership journey, spanning the Marine Corps, FBI, and cybersecurity. He emphasizes the importance of a people-centered leadership approach, the balance between technical and leadership skills, and the significance of effective communication. MK reflects on his experiences, the impact of mentorship, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in leadership roles. MK highlights the challenges in attracting diverse talent to cybersecurity and the necessity of nurturing new professionals. He concludes with insights on continuous learning and the importance of maintaining a beginner's mindset.

Takeaways

• Diverse experiences shape leadership philosophy.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in professional development.
• Silence from leaders can lead to assumptions and uncertainty.
• Leaders should increase communication during times of uncertainty.
• Maintaining a mindset of continuous learning is vital for personal growth.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Leadership and Music

02:57
Diverse Leadership Experiences

06:05
The Importance of People-Centered Leadership

09:05
Technical Skills vs. Leadership Skills

11:49
Communication as a Leadership Skill

14:53
Learning from Mistakes in Communication

18:01
The Impact of Silence in Leadership

20:44
Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership

25:06
Bridging the Gap: Technical and Business Communication

30:22
Building Personal Brand and Eminence

32:53
Overcoming Barriers in Cybersecurity Talent Acquisition

38:31
Staying Sharp: Continuous Learning and Adaptability

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In this conversation, Lance Spitzner shares his unique journey from a military tank officer to a pioneer in cybersecurity, detailing the evolution of his career and the inception of the Honeynet Project. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the human element in security, advocating for a shift from mere security awareness to fostering a robust security culture within organizations. Spitzner discusses practical steps for security teams to enhance their approach, including leveraging AI to improve communication and engagement. He concludes by reflecting on the impact of his work and the growing recognition of the human side of cybersecurity.

Takeaways

• The Honeynet Project was born from a need for cyber threat intelligence.
• Security culture is broader than security awareness; it encompasses attitudes and beliefs.
• Changing the environment is key to changing organizational culture.
• AI can be leveraged to enhance communication and simplify security policies.
• Positive interactions with security teams build a stronger security culture.

Chapters
00:00 From Military to Cybersecurity Pioneer
03:04 The Birth of the Honeynet Project
05:59 Understanding the Human Element in Security
09:13 Security Culture vs. Security Awareness
11:51 Changing Organizational Culture for Security
14:46 Practical Steps for Security Teams
17:55 Leveraging AI in Security Culture
21:11 Measuring Success in Cybersecurity Training

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In this conversation, Dr. Chase Cunningham, aka Dr. Zero Trust, shares his unique journey into the cybersecurity field, emphasizing the importance of purpose and self-care in a high-stress industry. He discusses the challenges of implementing zero trust strategies in organizations, the significance of understanding offensive tactics to enhance defensive measures, and the need for systemic change in national cybersecurity. Dr. Zero Trust also provides valuable advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals, highlighting the supportive community and the importance of continuous learning.

Takeaways

• Zero Trust is a strategy, not a product.
• Self-care is critical in high-stress environments.
• Understanding offensive tactics is essential for defense.
• Start small when implementing Zero Trust.

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In this conversation, Steve Martano discusses his journey from writing about baseball analytics to becoming a key player in cybersecurity executive search and strategy. He emphasizes the evolving role of CISOs, the importance of aligning with business objectives, and the need for strong leadership skills. The discussion also covers trends in CISO compensation, the mental health challenges faced by security leaders, and the significance of organizational culture in driving satisfaction and effectiveness in cybersecurity roles.

The Latest CISO Compensation Trends & Benchmarks.

Takeaways

• Understanding economics can enhance a CISO's effectiveness.
• Compensation data must be contextualized for accurate benchmarking.
• Low attrition doesn't always indicate job satisfaction.
• CISOs face increasing pressures and scope creep in their roles.
• The job market is expected to become more active in 2025.

Chapters

• 00:00 The Journey from Baseball to Cybersecurity
• 05:53 The Intersection of Leadership and Cybersecurity
• 12:00 Mental Health and Satisfaction Among CISOs
• 17:49 Preparing for Future Attrition in Cybersecurity Roles
• 26:29 Engagement and Satisfaction Beyond Compensation
• 32:13 The Evolving Role of Cybersecurity Leadership
• 38:15 Mentorship and Professional Growth

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Nate Lee discusses his transition from a CISO role to fractional CISO work, emphasizing the importance of variety and exposure in his career. He delves into the rise of AI, particularly large language models (LLMs), and the associated security concerns, including prompt injection risks.

Nate highlights the critical role of orchestrators in managing AI interactions and the need for security practitioners to adapt to the evolving landscape. He shares insights from his 20 years in cybersecurity and offers recommendations for practitioners to engage with AI responsibly and effectively.

Takeaways

• Nate transitioned to fractional CISO work for variety and exposure.
• Prompt injection is a major vulnerability in LLM systems.
• Orchestrators are essential for managing AI interactions securely.
• Security practitioners must understand how LLMs work to mitigate risks.
• Nate emphasizes the importance of human oversight in AI systems.

Link to Nate's research with the Cloud Security Alliance.

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Summary
In this conversation, Chris Hetner discusses the evolving role of boards of directors in cybersecurity, emphasizing the need for improved communication and understanding of cyber risks. He highlights the challenges boards face in adapting to new SEC rules and the importance of leveraging AI responsibly. Hetner also shares insights on tools for quantifying cyber risk and prioritizing investments while advocating for continuous learning and proactive engagement with board members.

Takeaways

• Boards are becoming more aware of cybersecurity risks.
• Cybersecurity discussions often receive limited airtime in board meetings.
• The SEC's new disclosure rules can drive more frequent discussions on cyber risk.
• AI governance is crucial as AI technologies become more prevalent.
• Collaboration with general counsel and risk officers is essential.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background on Cybersecurity and Boards
03:05 Current Challenges Facing Boards in Cybersecurity
06:11 Understanding Cyber Risk and Communication with Boards
08:58 Improving Board Engagement with Cybersecurity
11:56 Leveraging SEC Guidelines for Cyber Risk Discussions
15:02 The Role of AI in Cybersecurity Governance
18:05 Tools for Quantifying Cyber Risk
21:12 Prioritizing Cybersecurity Investments
24:02 The Importance of AI Governance
26:57 Staying Informed in Cybersecurity
30:13 Final Thoughts and Continuous Learning

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Meg Anderson, the CISO at Principal Financial Group, discusses her 17-year tenure as a CISO and the factors contributing to her long-term success. She attributes her longevity to her passion for the job and the opportunities for growth and development at Principal. Meg emphasizes the importance of understanding the business impact of cybersecurity and holding people accountable. She also highlights the significance of focusing on the basics of cybersecurity and not getting caught up in the latest trends. Meg shares her experience with mentorship and its role in her career. She also discusses the programs implemented at Principal to attract and retain cyber talent, such as a formal mentorship program and a robust internship program.

Takeaways

• Passion for the job and naivete can contribute to long-term success as a CISO.
• Understanding the business impact of cybersecurity and holding people accountable is crucial.
• Focusing on the basics of cybersecurity is essential, rather than getting caught up in the latest trends.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in career development.
• Taking time away from work is essential for personal growth and avoiding burnout.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Long-Term Success as a CISO
• 03:15 The Importance of Naivete and Passion
• 06:34 The Role of Mentorship
• 10:54 Attracting and Retaining Cyber Talent
• 12:50 Organizing a Cyber Youth Summit
• 21:13 Building a Cyber Program Around Company Culture
• 28:07 Focusing on the Basics of Cybersecurity
• 36:19 Personal Growth and Parting Words