Is cybersecurity actually as spooky as the industry makes it out to be? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, Tommy Smith sits down with Jeff Schmidt, CEO of Avertium, a newly formed powerhouse in the cyber defense space. Schmidt breaks down the complex world of data protection into a pragmatic, manageable framework that even small to mid-market businesses can master.

Listeners will learn about the strategic merger behind Avertium, the rising threat of GDPR fines in industries like hospitality, and why "built-in" security is the only way forward for the Internet of Things. Jeff shares his vision for a safety-first company culture—where employees aren't afraid to report a clicked link—and why the best security strategies start at the board level.

Whether you're curious about hackers or the future of autonomous vehicle safety, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at how businesses can stay safe without deterring growth.

Click play to discover how Avertium is turning cyber defense into a "muscle memory" for organizations nationwide.