Fear-based cybersecurity training uses the same tactics as cybercriminals. And it's not working.
Lynn Soeth, Service Manager of Security Services and Sales Engineering at High Point Networks, has been leading security teams since 2017 with a distinctly human-first approach. In this episode, she breaks down what it actually looks like to build a security culture people want to participate in — not one they dread.
From the Little Mermaid as a metaphor for layered security, to a real-world email spoof that nearly cost HPN 60 laptops, to practical tips for making cybersecurity month something your team looks forward to — this episode is packed with stories and strategies any organization can act on.
✨ In this episode:
→ The five pillars of a positive security culture — more carrot, less stick
→ Why security starts at the top and what happens when leadership opts out
→ The Little Mermaid and layers of security — a perfect analogy for how protection actually works
→ Tabletop exercises — what they are, how to run them, and why your team needs one
→ The Nick story — a real email spoof that almost shipped 60 laptops to a sketchy house in New York
→ What cybersecurity month looks like at HPN and how to replicate it
→ One piece of advice for IT leaders and one for everyone else
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Connect with Lynn: ✉️ [email protected]
Resources mentioned: 🌐 CISA cybersecurity resources — cisa.gov
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🕑 Timestamps:
0:00 - Cold open: "Why does cybersecurity feel like a scare tactic?"
0:51 - Welcome & Lynn Soeth introduction
2:21 - Today's topic: building a security culture without fear
3:46 - Lynn's five pillars of a positive security culture
6:01 - Why fear-based training backfires — and what to do instead
8:50 - The Little Mermaid and layers of security
13:23 - Brandi's question: how do you actually make cyber hygiene fun?
17:24 - Security starts at the top — and it's contagious
18:59 - Tabletop exercises — what they are and why they matter
21:40 - The Nick story — a real email spoof at HPN
25:55 - What cybersecurity month looks like in practice
31:09 - Final advice for IT leaders and everyone else
32:20 - Where to find Lynn & closing thoughts
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New episodes every other Wednesday.
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Get to the Point is produced by High Point Networks for informational purposes only. Guests include High Point Networks professionals as well as subject matter experts from across the industry, each speaking from their own experience and expertise. Content shared is intended as general information and should be evaluated within the context of your specific organization and circumstances. Views expressed by outside guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of High Point Networks or its affiliates. High Point Networks assumes no liability for decisions or actions taken based on content discussed in this podcast.
