Diverse Experiences: The Key to Stronger Security Leadership
Dr. Rebecca Wynn, Soulful CXO
CISO | Cybersecurity Strategist | Data Privacy & Risk Mgmt Advisor | Board Member | Soulful CXO Show Host | Author | Keynote Speaker | Influencer
Hello Soulful CXO Fans,
I hope you are doing well. I'm excited to share the latest episode of the show (Ep. 74 - Cybersecurity Leadership: Balancing Risk, Growth, and Strategy) with renowned cybersecurity leader and bestselling author Todd Fitzgerald about mastering the art of cybersecurity leadership.
Todd highlights the importance of aligning cybersecurity initiatives with business goals, ensuring the right balance between technical and strategic priorities. We discuss leveraging frameworks like NIST and ISO to create a clear roadmap for security programs and using risk-based approaches to build trust with executives and boards. Todd shares insights on fostering innovation by combining existing strategies, empowering teams through collaboration, and staying adaptable in a rapidly changing field.
This episode provides actionable strategies to elevate cybersecurity programs, deliver business value, and drive organizational success. Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with practical leadership advice for security professionals and business leaders alike!
I want to extend a huge thank you to Todd Fitzgerald for sharing his expertise and insights.
To listen to Soulful CXO, visit the Soulful CXO website, visit us on ITSP Magazine, or search for Soulful CXO on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Remember to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE. I would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions for future guests.
Thank you for being a part of the Soulful CXO show community. I sincerely appreciate your continued support, enthusiasm for the show, feedback, and engagement. I always strive to bring you insightful and thought-provoking content; your presence makes it all worthwhile.
Thank you,
Rebecca
Past Episodes
The last episode, (Ep. 73 - Elevate Your Leadership: Unlock Your True Potential!) with renowned executive coach and bestselling author Debra (D.A.) Benton about the importance of executive presence in leadership. Debra explains how executive presence - being memorable, credible, and trusted - is crucial for leaders to inspire and motivate their teams. We discuss how leaders can develop this presence through authenticity, confidence without arrogance, and alignment between words and actions. Debra also emphasizes personal leadership qualities, such as consideration and fostering self-esteem, as key elements of effective leadership. We explore the role of adaptability in leadership styles, from visionary to operational, and how authenticity can help leaders overcome imposter syndrome.
The prior episode, Ep. 72 -Thrive: Proven Paths to Career Growth!): Jennifer Brick, CEO and Founder of Capdeca Solutions, and known as "Your New Career Bestie" on YouTube, about the leadership and cultural factors driving high employee turnover. We discuss how misaligned hiring practices, unclear role expectations, and toxic workplace cultures contribute to churn. Jennifer explains with wonderful stories the importance of fostering autonomy, trust, and respect to create a thriving workplace, and offers actionable insights for leaders to address turnover at its roots. Whether you're a business leader or job seeker, this episode delivers practical strategies to build stronger teams and healthier organizational cultures.
Please visit the Soulful CXO YouTube Channel for additional Soulful CXO Insight Lessons. Here are this week's must-listen shorts. Please remember to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.
Career/Humanity
Leadership/Business
Cybersecurity/Technology
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?? Diverse Experiences: The Key to Stronger Security Leadership ??
In cybersecurity, experience is more than just time in the field—it’s about the breadth of challenges you’ve faced and the perspectives you’ve gained. Today, let’s explore how diverse experiences shape better security leaders and drive innovation, adaptability, and success.
?? Turning Transitions into Strengths
Career transitions—whether by choice or circumstance—can feel disruptive. But each change is an opportunity to grow. Leaders who have worked across multiple industries, roles, or security frameworks gain a wider lens on risk management and problem-solving. Instead of setbacks, these moments become launchpads for stronger leadership.
?? Broad Perspectives vs. Narrow Expertise
Deep expertise in one area is valuable, but staying in a single organization or role for too long can lead to tunnel vision. Leaders with varied experiences—whether through different companies or internal rotations—bring fresh ideas, innovative solutions, and a well-rounded approach to security strategy. However, growth should be intentional—chasing titles without purpose can hinder long-term success.
?? Cybersecurity is a Business Conversation
Technical skills alone don’t make a great security leader. The ability to translate cybersecurity risks into business priorities is what sets CISOs apart. Successful leaders use their experiences to bridge the gap between security and executive teams, securing funding and buy-in for critical initiatives.
?? Closing the Security Gap for Small Businesses
Nearly 50% of small businesses lack a dedicated security leader, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. Larger organizations and experienced security professionals have a role to play in mentoring and supporting smaller companies, creating a stronger, more resilient security ecosystem. Collaboration builds collective strength.
?? Final Thoughts
Growth in cybersecurity leadership comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, learning from diverse experiences, and recognizing the value of different perspectives. As Thomas Gerald shared in the Soulful CXO podcast, discomfort isn’t a roadblock—it’s a sign of progress.
?? Cybersecurity leaders aren’t just defenders - they’re innovators, communicators, and strategic thinkers.
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As someone deeply involved in the AI landscape, I've been closely monitoring Microsoft's recent changes to their Service Level Agreements (SLAs). These updates are a big deal and could significantly impact how companies using AI technologies need to manage their practices. If your company is leveraging AI tools, it's time to review your policies and practices thoroughly. Here's a high-level rundown of the September 30, 2024, updates and what you should remember.
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Welcome to part 3 of our series on Professional Communication. Previously, we explored how to balance critical thinking with professionalism and enhance feedback and collaboration skills. In this final part, we'll apply these strategies in real-world scenarios to help you navigate challenges and provide constructive feedback that drives improvement and teamwork.
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What is the Soulful CXO podcast?
The Soulful CXO is a show hosted by Dr. Rebecca Wynn, an award-winning CISO and cybersecurity expert, the Global Chief Cybersecurity Strategist, and CISO for Click Solutions Group (advisory services). The show focuses on the intersection of technology, business, and humanity, exploring how these three areas impact each other. Dr. Wynn interviews guests, including business leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts in various fields, to share insights and experiences on cybersecurity, risk management, and leadership. The show aims to provide a fresh perspective on how technology can be leveraged to create positive change in the world. You can contact her directly for advisory services, speaking engagements, and sponsorship opportunities. Additionally, you can hire her to create branding stories through ITSP Magazine.