In this episode of Beyond The Signal, titled "Fractional, Not Optional: Why vCISOs Are Now Critical Infrastructure," I sit down with David Menichello, Chief Revenue Officer at SideChannel, to explore the evolving role of virtual CISOs (vCISOs). We discuss why strategic security leadership is crucial for small and mid-sized businesses and the risks of delaying its implementation. David sheds light on the hidden costs of reactive security measures and the common misconceptions about vCISOs. We also delve into the importance of integrating proactive and reactive strategies, and how to build trust with companies skeptical of external security resources. Join us as we uncover the critical need for vCISOs in today's cybersecurity landscape.