In this solo episode, Dr. Eric Cole steps back into the spotlight after several interview-focused sessions, responding to listeners’ requests to hear directly from him. The result is a powerful, insightful, and foundational deep dive into what it truly means to be a CISO—not just in title, but in mindset, skillset, and strategic execution.

This episode isn’t just about definitions—it’s a wake-up call to the cybersecurity industry and professionals aspiring to leadership roles. Dr. Cole challenges conventional thinking, dismantles industry myths, and offers a battle-tested blueprint for what makes a world-class CISO.

In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with Brett Miller, a Marine Corps veteran, former Hollywood creative, and now a leader at Galileo, a cutting-edge satellite communications company. Together, they explore the critical role of secure communications in cybersecurity, disaster response, and everyday life.

Brett shares his fascinating journey from running encrypted radio systems in the military to building an app that seamlessly bridges satellite, cellular, and AI-powered emergency planning—all designed to provide redundancy, reliability, and privacy when traditional networks fail. The conversation dives into why cell networks are increasingly unreliable, the future of wearable and embedded devices, and why CISOs must rethink their organization’s communications strategies before a crisis strikes.

They also tackle pressing topics like TikTok, foreign data collection, and why adversaries are targeting telecom networks over banks—making this a must-listen for cybersecurity leaders, executives, and anyone interested in the future of secure connectivity.

In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole interviews Azunna Anyanwu, a fractional CIO, discussing his career journey, the importance of soft skills in cybersecurity leadership, and the challenges of managing budgets and risk. They delve into the complexities of ransomware, the evolving roles of CIOs and CISOs, and the impact of AI on the cybersecurity workforce. Azunna shares valuable insights on training employees to recognize threats and the necessity of establishing a risk tolerance with the board. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and setting goals for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with communication strategist and tech-human behavior expert Dr. Jill Schiefelbein. Together, they explore the critical intersection of cybersecurity, leadership, and communication—diving into why technical solutions alone aren’t enough without clear messaging to executives, employees, and end users. From making the case for two-factor authentication to understanding how AI is transforming daily workflows, Dr. Jill shares powerful insights on bridging the gap between technical experts and business leaders. Whether you’re a CISO, aspiring leader, or simply curious about the future of cybersecurity and AI, this episode offers practical advice to level up both your technical and communication game.

In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with Shannon Brewster, CISO at LevelBlue, to discuss what it takes to become a world-class CISO. From transitioning from technical roles into strategic leadership, to earning a seat at the executive table, managing technical teams, navigating risk tolerance, and building your personal brand, Shannon shares real-world insights from decades of experience in telecommunications and cybersecurity.

If you’ve ever wondered how to go from technical expert to trusted business leader—or how to balance cybersecurity priorities with business enablement—this conversation delivers the answers.

In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with CEO and entrepreneur Shashank Shekhar to dive into the mindset of business leaders and how CISOs can better communicate with executives. From navigating the 2008 financial crisis to building successful companies in mortgage, AI, and fintech, Shashank shares powerful insights on what CEOs really value, how they view cybersecurity, and the mistakes most security leaders make when pitching solutions.

If you want to learn how to put yourself in the CEO’s shoes, align security with business growth, and earn a seat at the executive table—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole explores what it truly means to be a cybersecurity leader in today’s interconnected world. Drawing on insights from Hong Kong to London, Dr. Cole breaks down the unique challenges CISOs face globally and reveals the leadership principles that remain universal no matter where you are.

You’ll discover why strong cybersecurity leadership is no longer optional but essential for organizations navigating modern threats. Learn how cultural perspectives, evolving threats, and executive communication all play a role in shaping a successful CISO.

Tune in to uncover practical lessons, global perspectives, and strategies to lead with confidence in the ever-changing world of cybersecurity

In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole dives deep into simplicity, time management, and the foundations of being a world-class Chief Information Security Officer. He explains how rebooting your life and career—just like you reboot a slow computer—can help clear distractions and focus on what truly matters.

Dr. Cole also shares strategies for creating a strategic cybersecurity playbook, aligning with executives, setting risk tolerance, and reclaiming wasted time. Whether you’re a seasoned CISO or aspiring to lead in cybersecurity, this episode is packed with actionable advice to improve your efficiency, influence, and impact.

Learn how to:

• Reset your priorities and eliminate inefficiencies

• Track your time and focus on high-value activities

• Develop a strategic cybersecurity playbook

• Communicate your vision to executives

• Set risk tolerance that aligns with your organization

Tune in and start transforming your approach to cybersecurity and leadership today.

In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole dives deep into one of the most important yet often overlooked success principles for security leaders: simplicity. Drawing from decades of experience as one of the first CISOs before the title even existed, Dr. Cole explains why going back to the basics is critical for both personal growth and organizational success. 

He explores the growing demand for skilled CISOs, how to position yourself for top leadership roles, and why communication and rapport—not just technical skills—are the true differentiators for advancement. Using powerful real-world examples, career planning strategies, and a practical exercise to strengthen executive relationships, this episode equips you to not only accelerate your career but also make cybersecurity a business enabler.

In this inspiring episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with Zachary Lewis, Chief Information Security Officer at the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis. With over five years in the CISO seat and a career that spans startups, coal plants, and higher education, Zach shares his unique journey from sysadmin to security leader. This episode offers a front-row seat into what it really takes to pivot into cybersecurity leadership—especially when you're coming from the IT side. Zach breaks down how to make the transition, why leadership trumps deep technical skills at the CISO level, and how to build credibility even when you don’t have decades of cyber experience under your belt.

But this conversation goes beyond resumes and frameworks. Zach and Dr. Cole dig deep into the realities of leading during a global crisis—Zach took his role just weeks before COVID—and how a ransomware incident became a turning point in proving the strength of his security program. For aspiring CISOs and current security leaders alike, this episode is full of wisdom on how to lead with calm, build board-level trust, and turn unexpected challenges into defining moments. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your executive edge, Zach’s story is a blueprint worth studying.