In this episode of The Candid CISO, Rinki Sethi, a trailblazing cybersecurity leader, shares her incredible journey from an unexpected start in the industry to her rise as a prominent figure in security leadership with host John Donovan. Rinki opens up about the challenges she faced, the importance of mentorship, and how vulnerability and communication have been crucial to her success. She provides insightful guidance on building strong security teams, navigating crisis management, and fostering a supportive cybersecurity community. Tune in for practical advice and inspiration for advancing your own cybersecurity career.

Key topics include

1. Discovering your specific passion within the broad field of cybersecurity is crucial for a fulfilling career, as Rinki Sethi’s own journey from compliance to developer training demonstrates.
2. Mentorship can be found in unexpected places, from peers to senior leaders, and actively seeking guidance from those around you can significantly shape your career path.
3. Securing executive buy-in is essential for building a strong security culture, and aligning security goals with business objectives helps demonstrate the value of security initiatives.
4. To effectively advocate for security investments, it is crucial to present security as a business enabler, highlighting its ability to improve efficiency, reduce friction, and even create a competitive advantage.
5. Sharing real-world examples of how security programs have reduced business friction, such as streamlining compliance processes or shortening sales cycles, can help garner support for future security initiatives.
6. Transparency and clear communication are vital when implementing security programs, especially those that may be perceived as intrusive, to ensure understanding and minimize resistance.
7. Prioritizing mental health in the demanding field of cybersecurity is crucial, and creating a supportive environment where team members feel comfortable seeking help and addressing mental well-being is essential.
8. Crisis management exercises, including surprise breach simulations, can be invaluable for preparing executive teams and other stakeholders to effectively navigate real-world security incidents.
9. Networking outside of your immediate professional circle can lead to unexpected mentorship opportunities, board positions, and valuable connections that can benefit your career in the long run.
10. Giving back to the cybersecurity community by mentoring others, sharing your experiences, and encouraging newcomers is crucial for fostering a strong and inclusive industry.

TrustLogix is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.trustlogix.io/candidciso

For show notes, transcripts, links, and more episodes visit https://www.candidciso.com

The Candid CISO podcast is produced by Nonconformist Innovation Media.

In this episode of the Candid CISO, Co-Host John Donovan sits down with Jason Elrod, CISO of MultiCare Health Systems, who shares how getting lost on a trail run and running barefoot for 19 miles became a metaphor for leadership in cybersecurity. Jason dives into the tough realities of protecting critical infrastructure, balancing security and compliance, and tackling imposter syndrome head-on. He also reveals why being fiercely dangerous (ethically, of course) is essential for a successful cybersecurity career. From personal lessons on resilience to high-candor takes on navigating boardrooms, Jason keeps it real—and a bit ironic—by showing how getting off track can sometimes lead to the best insights. Follow along for an unexpected and entertaining ride!

Key topics include

• How getting lost on a trail run turned into a lesson on leadership and staying present.
• Why facing your fears and doing what scares you leads to growth—both on trails and in cybersecurity
• The power of fierce, mission-driven cybersecurity professionals and why being 'ethically dangerous' matters
• How imposter syndrome is universal—and why accepting it can make you a more confident leader
• Balancing security and compliance: How to prioritize safety without getting lost in the checkbox mentality
• Jason's candid take on communicating cybersecurity risks to executives and boards in a way they’ll understand
• How ultra-running teaches resilience, focus, and mindfulness—and how that applies to a high-stress CISO role
• The importance of finding a restorative practice to reset and thrive in high-pressure leadership positions
• Why being both the smartest and 'dumbest' in the room drives better teamwork and collaboration
• How showing vulnerability and high candor can help you lead more authentically and inspire your team

Thanks to our season sponsors

TrustLogix is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.trustlogix.io/candidciso

For show notes, transcripts, links, and more episodes visit https://www.candidciso.com

The Candid CISO podcast is produced by Nonconformist Innovation Media.

In this episode of the Candid CISO podcast, host John Donovan sits down with Mandy Andress, an experienced CISO, investor, and board member, to explore her career journey in the cybersecurity industry. Mandy discusses how her diverse roles have shaped her perspective on implementing security measures tailored to different organizations, taking into account their culture, communication styles, and technological infrastructure. She also opens up about her personal experiences as a gay woman working in tech, offering insight into how diversity has influenced her leadership approach and decision-making processes.

The conversation touches on the evolving responsibilities of a CISO, especially in the context of remote work and the rise of AI-driven cyberattacks. Mandy reflects on her experiences balancing compliance and security in both traditional and tech-forward industries, sharing her strategies for building effective security teams and fostering collaboration.

Key Takeaways

• Mandy emphasizes the importance of aligning security strategies with an organization's unique culture, communication style, and tech stack to ensure they are effective and sustainable.

• She talks about how her experience as a gay woman in cybersecurity shows that diversity enhances problem-solving, fosters collaboration, and strengthens team performance.

• Mandy believes in creating a safe and supportive environment for team members by being a good listener, sharing personal experiences, and being open to vulnerability.

• The role of a CISO continues to evolve, and while it has become more defined in terms of business impact, it still requires constant adaptation due to the fast-paced changes in technology and cyber threats.

• Remote work presents unique challenges for leadership and team cohesion, but it also offers opportunities to redefine communication and collaboration through virtual means.

• Mandy advocates for taking on lateral career moves, as they can provide valuable learning experiences that contribute to broader skill sets, particularly in leadership and security roles.

• Building trust and rapport within an organization is crucial for a CISO, especially when influencing security decisions and balancing the organization's risk appetite with technical considerations.

• Mandy underscores the importance of balancing compliance and security, recognizing that they do not always align perfectly, and making informed decisions on when to prioritize one over the other.

• The rise of AI-driven cyberattacks is a growing concern, and security teams need to rethink their approach, focusing on speed, adaptability, and leveraging AI tools for defense.

• Lastly, Mandy encourages cybersecurity professionals to stay curious, remain open to learning, and take calculated risks in their careers, always keeping an eye on long-term growth and opportunities.

TrustLogix is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.trustlogix.io/candidciso

For show notes, transcripts, links, and more episodes visit https://www.candidciso.com

The Candid CISO podcast is produced by Nonconformist Innovation Media.

In this episode, John Donovan sits down with cybersecurity expert and entrepreneur Dr. Joel Fulton for an insightful conversation covering leadership, resilience, and career growth. Joel shares his journey from an unconventional upbringing to becoming a successful CISO and startup founder. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from individual contributor to leader, the evolving nature of the CISO role, and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. Listeners can expect actionable advice on building balanced teams, effective communication, and leveraging professional communities for growth and support.

Takeaways

• Pursue Passion Projects Cautiously: Dream projects like writing require patience, planning, and multiple efforts to gain traction.

• Learn from Personal Struggles: Overcoming tough life experiences can build resilience and redefine success in your career.

• Work with People You Respect: Prioritize working with individuals who align with your values to avoid toxic environments.

• Self-awareness in Leadership: Understand your strengths and weaknesses to better lead and collaborate with others.

• Avoid Comparison in Leadership: The CISO role is evolving—don’t compare yourself to others; create your own leadership path.

• Build Balanced Teams: Combine technical skills, risk tolerance, and leadership within your team for maximum effectiveness.

• Communicate Clearly as a Leader: Ensure your brainstorming sessions are not misinterpreted as directives; leave space for team input.

• Delegate to Empower Growth: As a manager, trust and empower your team by avoiding micromanagement.

• Startups Require Flexibility: Starting a business involves unexpected challenges; embrace uncertainty and adapt quickly.

• Leverage Peer Communities: Build and engage in professional communities to access advice, mentorship, and problem-solving support.

TrustLogix is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.trustlogix.io/candidciso

For show notes, transcripts, links, and more episodes visit https://www.candidciso.com

The Candid CISO podcast is produced by Nonconformist Innovation Media.

In this episode of the Candid CISO podcast, Tyler Pinckard, Head of Security and Data Protection Officer at Support Logic, shares his provocative insights on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. Tyler challenges the traditional view of security as merely a cost center, arguing that when leveraged correctly, compliance and AI can become powerful competitive advantages. He delves into the critical role of preparation and rehearsals, emphasizing that many security failures stem from a lack of planning rather than the complexity of threats. Tyler also advocates for embracing AI and automation to stay ahead in the fast-paced tech environment, urging CISOs to disrupt rather than be disrupted. This episode is a must-listen for security leaders looking to sharpen their strategic edge and rethink their approach to modern cybersecurity challenges.

Takeaways

• Security as a Strategic Advantage: Compliance and AI can turn security into a competitive edge.
• Preparation is Key: Many security failures result from poor planning, not just complex threats.
• Embrace Disruption: CISOs should leverage AI and automation to disrupt, rather than be disrupted.
• The Power of Rehearsals: Regular rehearsals and preparation prevent failures during critical security incidents.
• Compliance as a Crowbar: Compliance like SOC 2 and ISO is essential for customer trust and retention.
• AI's Role in Cybersecurity: AI can enhance efficiency, particularly in tasks like static analysis and case summarization.
• Practical Use of AI: AI should assist with tasks while maintaining human oversight for critical decisions.
• Startups and Security: Aligning security with business goals is crucial for success in fast-paced startups.
• Leadership in Cybersecurity: Effective leaders delegate and empower teams rather than micromanaging technical tasks.
• Diversity Drives Success: Diverse teams offer varied perspectives, reducing risks and improving security outcomes.
• Pragmatic Use of Tools: Use tools like GitHub Co-Pilot to maximize team efficiency and effectiveness.
• Security for the Modern CISO: CISOs must continuously adapt, applying both traditional strategies and modern tech solutions.

TrustLogix is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.trustlogix.io/candidciso

For show notes, transcripts, links, and more episodes visit https://www.candidciso.com

The Candid CISO podcast is produced by Nonconformist Innovation Media.

TrustLogix is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.trustlogix.io/candidciso

IdRamp is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.idramp.com/candidciso

Candid CISO is produced by Nonconformist Innovation Media

For show notes, links, and more episodes visit https://www.candidciso.com

TrustLogix is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.trustlogix.io/candidciso

IdRamp is a sponsor of the Candid CISO podcast. Visit their website at: https://www.idramp.com/candidciso

Candid CISO is produced by Nonconformist Innovation Media

For show notes, links, and more episodes visit https://www.candidciso.com