DESCRIPTION:
Join Den Jones as he sits down with fellow Brit Alastair Paterson, CEO and co-founder of Harmonic Security, to explore the challenges of AI adoption in enterprise environments. From bootstrapping a cybersecurity startup in London to scaling in Silicon Valley, Alastair shares insights on securing AI workflows, the cultural differences between UK and US startup ecosystems, and why traditional DLP solutions fall short in the AI era.
GUEST INFORMATION:
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
Introduction to Harmonic Security
Harmonic enables secure AI adoption for enterprises, sitting between business teams wanting to leverage AI and security teams managing risk [1:43]
Key quote: "Huge amount of tension between the business that's wanting to push forward and lean into this wave in a big way. And then the security legal and compliance teams are trying to hold the tie back a little bit" [1:59]
The Evolution of Harmonic's Mission
Originally focused on data protection using language models, evolved to address broader AI governance challenges [5:32]
Key quote: "We can start to use language models for data protection too... with the context and understanding around what users are doing and the intent behind the data" [5:17]
Why Traditional DLP Fails
Traditional DLP solutions are inadequate for modern data protection needs [7:00]
Key quote: "DLP has always sucked. It's been really just a money pit of uselessness" [7:00]
Harmonic's Deployment Approach
Browser-agnostic extension that provides visibility into 6,000+ AI applications without disrupting user experience [10:52]
Key quote: "The end users experience no change at all on day one at all. But the security team gets visibility now at prompt level and at intent level" [11:07]
Lessons from UK to US Expansion
UK founders take too long to enter the US market, hampered by medium-sized domestic market [16:19]
Key quote: "If you're losing in the US because you got here too late, you're going to lose the category. You've got to win the US, you've got to get here fast" [16:39]
Cultural Differences in Startup Ambition
UK culture less supportive of startup ambition compared to Bay Area's grand planning mentality [18:05] [20:39]
Key quote: "In the UK, if you've got a grand plan, people will tell you to pipe down a bit and know your place a bit more" [20:39]
Talent Market Dynamics
Bay Area offers world-class go-to-market talent but at double the cost of London for technical roles [26:59]
Key quote: "It's just half the cost in London that it is in the Bay Area for top tier engineers" [27:42]
The Four Pillars of AI Security
Threats from AI (deepfakes, phishing), AI for security (SOC automation), protecting AI applications, and workforce AI adoption [33:27] [34:12]
Key quote: "I think there's only really four problems and one of them we want to own with Harmonic" [33:27]
Introduction Summary
The podcast episode begins with a welcome message to "909 Exec," a source for insights in cybersecurity and beyond, hosted by Den Jones.
This special edition marks the 50th episode, featuring guest Aaron Wurthmann, an advisory CISO and close associate of Den.
Guest Highlights
Aaron Wurthmann is an advisory CISO and key leadership figure in 909Cyber. Over the past year, the company has grown from having one or two clients to nearly a dozen, expanding its services from compliance and assessment work to include VCSO, security engineering, and placement work.
Aaron highlights the importance of client renewals as a measure of success and the challenges faced by early-stage companies in managing security and compliance.
Main Topics Covered
Company Growth and Client Work:
The episode discusses the company's growth over the past year, including the expansion of services and the importance of client renewals.
AI and Security:
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the impact of AI on security, including the challenges of integrating AI into products and the potential risks associated with it.
Reseller and Product Launches:
The company has entered into reseller agreements and launched "99 Protect," a security product offering a comprehensive suite of protections.
Industry Events and Mental Health:
The episode highlights participation in industry events like the FBI session and DevCon, and discusses the importance of mental health in cybersecurity.
Future Predictions and Challenges:
The conversation touches on future predictions for AI in security, the potential for AI to be used as a defense mechanism, and the challenges of maintaining visibility over AI usage within companies.
Holiday Plans and Personal Anecdotes:
The hosts share personal plans for the holidays, including volunteering and family gatherings, adding a personal touch to the episode.
New Initiatives:
The launch of a new platform, RCS, aimed at connecting freelancers with companies, is discussed as an evolution of their previous student-focused initiative.
Join veteran chief security officer and Cyber Aficionado Den Jones as he welcomes Tyler Farrar back to the 909Exec podcast.
In this episode, Tyler shares his journey from CSO at Exabeam to his current roles at Next Power and Stacking Bytes, offering insights into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity leadership.
Discover Tyler's candid thoughts on industry challenges, including the complexities of hiring and the impact of AI on cybersecurity.
Whether you're a seasoned executive or new to the field, this episode promises thought-provoking discussions and practical advice for navigating the future of cybersecurity.
The main topics discussed in this episode include:
Introduction Summary
Join veteran chief security officer and Cyber Aficionado Den Jones as he hosts Chelsea Jarvie, founder and CEO of Neon Guard, in episode 48 of 909Exec.
Discover Chelsea's inspiring journey from studying ethical hacking in Scotland to becoming a cybersecurity leader and entrepreneur.
Learn about her innovative approach to age assurance and her mission to make the internet safer for children. Chelsea shares her experiences in overcoming industry challenges, building a successful consultancy, and her exciting new venture in San Francisco.
Tune in for a conversation filled with insights, advice, and the ambition driving cybersecurity forward.
Guest Highlights
Chelsea Jarvie is introduced as the founder and CEO of Neon Guard. She has worked in the cybersecurity field for about 10 years, holding roles such as Chief Security Officer (CSO) and vulnerability management specialist.
Chelsea is currently in San Francisco seeking new customers and investors for her new company in the age assurance space.She is originally from Perth, Scotland, and studied ethical hacking in Dundee, Scotland, despite initially wanting to pursue pharmacy.
Chelsea has been involved in the Women in Tech scene and has held internships at Skyscanner and Prudential. She became a CSO at 29 and has started her own consultancy business, Neon Circle, focusing on cyber strategy and transformation.
Main Topics Covered
The episode covers several main topics, including:
- Chelsea's journey into cybersecurity, her educational background, and her transition from pharmacy to ethical hacking.
- Her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field and the challenges she faced, including discrimination and cultural attitudes.
- The founding and operation of her consultancy business, Neon Circle, and her focus on cyber transformation and strategy.
- Her keynote speaking engagements and the importance of thought leadership in cybersecurity.
- Chelsea's new venture in age assurance technology, aiming to anonymously distinguish adults from children online, and her efforts to secure investment in San Francisco.
Video & Audio Post Production Services:
SoundHaus Studio
www.soundhaus.studio
In this episode of 909Exec, host Den Jones sits down with Karen Kerr, the co-founder of Tethered, a unique mindfulness app inspired by the rich heritage and serene landscapes of Scotland.
Join us as Karen shares her personal journey from a creative career in Scotland to launching a groundbreaking app that connects users to mindfulness through cultural narratives.
Discover how Tethered is disrupting the mindfulness industry with its high retention rates and personalized content, and learn about the challenges and triumphs of bringing a Scottish-inspired app to a global audience.
Whether you're an executive seeking mental clarity or someone interested in the intersection of culture and mindfulness, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Main Topics Covered
Mindfulness and Connection:
Discussion on how Tethered aims to make mindfulness more accessible by connecting users to Scottish culture and heritage.
Karen's Personal Journey:
Insights into Karen's career path, personal challenges, and how they shaped her approach to mindfulness.
App Development and Market Strategy:
The challenges and successes in developing Tethered, including its high retention rates and plans for expansion.
Cultural Influence:
The role of Scottish culture in the app's content and its appeal to a global audience, particularly in the US.
Future Plans:
Expansion strategies, including introducing Tethered to other cultures and seeking investment to grow the app's reach.
In this (Sponsored Episode) of 909 Exec, host Den Jones dives into the transformative world of software security in the age of AI.
Joined by industry leaders Javed Hasan, CEO of Lineaje, and Kumar Chivukula, co-founder of Opsera, the discussion explores how AI is revolutionizing the way we approach software vulnerabilities and security.
Discover how these experts are leveraging AI to automate vulnerability detection and remediation, reduce human error, and enhance the overall security posture of organizations.
Whether you're a cybersecurity professional or a tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of software security and the critical role AI plays in safeguarding our digital landscape.
Guest Highlights
Javed Hasan: Co-founder and CEO of Lineaje, a company specializing in full lifecycle software supply chain security with a focus on autonomous fixes. Javed discusses the importance of integrating DevSecOps with DevOps to enhance software security and efficiency.
Kumar Chivukula: Co-founder of Opsera, a DevOps platform that helps improve DevOps maturity and software delivery. Kumar emphasizes the partnership with Lineaje to provide comprehensive DevSecOps automation and highlights the benefits of their integrated solution.
Main Topics Covered
Partnership and Integration:
The episode explores the collaboration between Lineaje and Opsera, focusing on their integrated solution for DevSecOps and DevOps. The guests discuss how their partnership enhances software security by automating vulnerability detection and remediation.
AI in Security:
The conversation delves into the role of AI in improving software security, highlighting the use of AI agents for autonomous decision-making and vulnerability fixes. The guests also discuss the future of AI in security and the importance of securing AI platforms.
Software Supply Chain Security:
The episode addresses the challenges of managing software vulnerabilities, particularly in the context of new CVEs. The guests explain how their solution can quickly identify and remediate vulnerabilities across large-scale environments.
Cost and Efficiency:
The discussion includes the cost savings and efficiency gains achieved through the automation of security processes, reducing human error and enabling faster remediation of vulnerabilities.
In this episode of 9 0 9 Exec, hosted by Den Jones, the focus is on exploring the intersection of cybersecurity and personal development.
Den introduces the guest, Victoria Grandury, who is the CEO and founder of Limitless Rebel Ventures.
Victoria shares her journey from growing up in a French bubble in New York City to becoming a high performer in the tech and cybersecurity industry.
Victoria also delves into her passion for subconscious reprogramming and hypno breathwork, a practice that combines hypnosis and breathwork to help individuals achieve productivity without burnout.
Victoria emphasizes the need for leaders to embody the emotional baseline they wish to set for their teams and shares insights on how her coaching helps individuals and teams align with their true selves and achieve their goals.
Main Topics Covered
Victoria's Journey:
Discussion on her career path, including her transition from finance to tech, and her experiences at Deloitte and in cybersecurity.
Limitless Rebel Ventures:
The philosophy behind her company, focusing on helping individuals achieve personal and professional growth.
Subconscious Reprogramming:
Victoria explains the concept of hypno breathwork and its benefits in reprogramming limiting beliefs and enhancing personal performance.
Cultural Perspectives:
The conversation touches on cultural differences in feedback and work-life balance, particularly in the tech and cybersecurity industries.
Leadership and Emotional Resilience:
The importance of leaders setting a positive emotional baseline for their teams and the role of meditation and mindfulness in managing stress.
In this episode of 9 0 9 Exec, hosted by Den Jones, the focus is on exploring the intriguing world of mediumship and spiritualism. Den introduces the topic by sharing his personal experiences and fascination with spiritual mediums, highlighting how notable figures like Steve Jobs and Oprah Winfrey have publicly acknowledged their engagement with spiritual guides.
The guest for this episode is Brenda Nelson, a psychic spiritual medium from Scotland, who joins Den to delve into the nuances of spiritual healing and mediumship.
Main Topics Covered
Mediumship and Spiritualism: The episode explores the concepts of mediumship, spiritual healing, and the differences between psychic and spiritual mediums. Brenda explains how she connects with spirit and the importance of understanding one's spirit guides and angels.
Personal Experiences and Anecdotes: Den and Brenda share personal stories and experiences that highlight the impact of spiritual practices on their lives. Den recounts his early encounters with spiritual healing, while Brenda discusses her journey and the development of her abilities.
Skepticism and Evidence: The discussion addresses common skepticism around mediumship and how evidence provided by mediums can validate their authenticity. Brenda emphasizes the importance of providing specific evidence during readings and advises listeners on how to choose a reputable medium.
Modern Society and Spiritual Practices: The conversation touches on the growing interest in spiritual practices, mindfulness, and meditation in modern society. Brenda and Den discuss how these practices are becoming more accepted and integrated into people's lives as they seek deeper connections with themselves and the universe.
In this engaging episode of 9 0 9 Exec, host Den Jones sits down with Kumar Chivukula, the co-founder and CEO of Opsera, to explore the dynamic world of cybersecurity and DevOps.
Kumar shares his journey from working at Adobe and Symantec to founding Opsera, a company at the forefront of AI-powered DevOps solutions.
Discover how Opsera is revolutionizing software delivery with innovative AI applications, and learn about the challenges and triumphs of building a startup in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a budding entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of cybersecurity and the power of AI in transforming industries.
Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, practical advice, and a glimpse into the future of technology.
Main Topics Covered
Opsera's Mission:
The company aims to empower enterprises to deliver software faster, better, and more securely by providing a unified DevOps platform.
Challenges in Software Delivery:
Kumar discusses the common struggles enterprises face with point solutions and the need for a seamless software delivery process.
AI and Automation:
The episode covers how Opsera leverages AI to provide insights, automate remediation, and improve software delivery processes.
Entrepreneurial Journey:
Kumar shares insights into the challenges of starting a company, the importance of having a strong network, and the role of mentors and advisors.
Funding and Partnerships:
The discussion includes Opsera's recent funding round and strategic partnerships with companies like Lineaje, GitHub and Databricks to enhance their platform's capabilities.
Introduction Summary
In this episode of 9 0 9 Exec, hosted by Den Jones, the focus is on cybersecurity and leadership insights. The episode features a returning guest, Pieter Vaniperen, who is the CISO and CIO at AlphaSense.
Guest Highlights
Pieter Vaniperen: CISO and CIO at AlphaSense.
Discusses the benefits of having a blended CIO and CISO role, emphasizing streamlined operations and team interest in both areas.
Shares insights on creative problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of identifying the right problems and using first principles and root cause analysis.
Highlights the significance of balancing automation with cost-effectiveness and the importance of understanding business value in decision-making.
Main Topics Covered
Blended CIO and CISO Roles: The advantages of combining these roles for streamlined operations and team dynamics.
Creative Problem Solving: The approach of questioning whether the right problem is being addressed and using first principles and root cause analysis.
Automation vs. Manual Processes: Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of automation and the importance of business value.
AI in Security: The potential of AI to filter noise and provide valuable insights in cybersecurity.
Work-Life Balance and Leadership: The importance of managing burnout, the benefits of creative outlets, and the evolving definition of work post-COVID.
Music and Creativity: The parallels between music, creativity, and problem-solving in professional life.
In this exciting episode of 909Exec, host Den Jones welcomes back a special guest, Neeha Kadavakolanu, a talented security engineer at Cisco and returning guest on the show.
Neeha shares her unique journey from a cognitive science major to a security engineer at Cisco, where she explores the fascinating intersection of human behavior and technology.
Tune in as she discusses her experiences and insights from competing in the Social Engineering Village competition at DEFCON, where she was awarded for her most convincing pretext.
Discover the art of social engineering, the importance of security awareness, and how even seemingly innocuous information can be leveraged in cyber attacks.
Whether you're an executive, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of cybersecurity, this episode is packed with wit, wisdom, and valuable lessons on protecting your digital life.
In this enlightening episode of 9 0 9 Exec, host Den Jones sits down with Dr. Sara Rabinovich, a renowned cyber psychologist and professor at USC, to explore the intersection of cybersecurity and mental health.
Dr. Sara shares her journey from a college basketball player to a leading expert in stress management for high-pressure industries. Discover practical tools and strategies to combat burnout and stress, tailored specifically for cybersecurity professionals.
Learn about the innovative Cybercom app and mindfulness kits designed to support mental wellbeing in the tech world. Whether you're an executive, a cybersecurity professional, or someone interested in mental health, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you thrive in a demanding field.
Tune in to understand how to bring balance and resilience to your professional life.
1. Introduction Summary
The episode begins with the host, Den Jones, introducing the podcast "9 0 9 Exec" as a source of wit and wisdom in cybersecurity.
Den highlights his role as a veteran chief security officer and mentions that he brings unique guests and insights to the show. In this episode, Den welcomes Justine Benjamin, also known as JB or Jojo, who is the Chief Marketing Officer at Hex-Rays.
2. Guest Highlights
Background:
Justine Benjamin, often referred to as JB, is the Chief Marketing Officer at Hex-Rays, a company based in Belgium, though she works remotely from San Jose, California. She has a long history in advertising technology and recently transitioned into cybersecurity.
Key Contributions:
Justine discusses her role in marketing Hex-Rays' niche cybersecurity products, particularly their binary analysis tools. She emphasizes her focus on community marketing and product marketing, engaging with both enterprise clients and individual power users.
3. Main Topics Covered
Hex-Rays and Its Products:
Justine explains Hex-Rays' focus on creating binary analysis tools used for ethical hacking and reverse engineering. The company has a rich history and is well-known in the cybersecurity community.
Marketing Strategies:
Justine shares her experiences in marketing within the cybersecurity space, highlighting the differences between B2B and B2C marketing. She discusses the effectiveness of platforms like Reddit and Twitter for reaching different audiences.
Career Journey and Advice:
Justine talks about her career path from wanting to be a teacher to becoming a marketing leader. She offers advice for those entering the marketing field, emphasizing the importance of asking questions and being open to learning.
Work-Life Balance:
The conversation touches on managing work-life balance, especially as a mother and a professional. Justine shares her strategies for staying sane and productive.
Impact of AI on Marketing:
Justine discusses how AI is currently being used in marketing, particularly in automating tasks and generating initial drafts for content, while emphasizing the continued need for human oversight and creativity.
Advice for Women in Tech:
Justine provides insights for women working in technology, encouraging them to ask questions and be open to diverse mentorship opportunities.
In this insightful episode, Den Jones sits down with Pieter Vaniperen, CISO and CIO at AlphaSense, to explore the journey from technologist to executive leadership. They dive into how creative thinking shapes effective leadership, the evolution of security roles at the executive level, and why understanding business fundamentals is critical for today's tech leaders.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. Creative thinking is a critical skill for tech leaders, enabling them to solve complex problems by applying experiences from different domains.
2. Successful executives need to understand the business context and strategy, not just their technical domain.
3. The transition from technologist to executive requires a shift from building components to designing systems and enabling others.
4. As technology becomes more commoditized, the roles of CIO and CISO are increasingly overlapping, with security becoming central to most IT decisions.
5. Understanding when to delegate and create repeatable systems is essential for scaling leadership impact.
In this insightful episode, Den Jones sits down with Rinki Sethi, Chief Security Officer at Upwind, to discuss her remarkable journey from teenage hacker to cybersecurity executive. Rinki shares valuable perspectives on leadership, building security culture, and the evolving role of security executives in today's technology landscape.
"I think it's noisy because that's how big the problem is. There's room for folks and companies that are going to build something that might get acquired, and room for people building brand new platforms."
- Rinki Sethi on cybersecurity innovation
"Take risks early on and be super curious. It's okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. We don't have to be perfect in any of our roles."
- Rinki Sethi's advice for women in tech
CALL TO ACTION:
Subscribe to 909 Exec wherever you get your podcasts for more wit and wisdom in cybersecurity from host Den Jones and his network of industry leaders.
Share this episode with colleagues interested in security leadership, innovation, and career development.
In this thought-provoking discussion, cybersecurity veterans debate whether the industry truly faces a talent shortage or an expectations problem. The panel explores how hiring practices, remote work trends, and training investments impact the ability to match qualified candidates with appropriate positions in today's evolving workplace.
GUEST INFORMATION:
Name: Amelie Koran
Title/Credentials: Cybersecurity
ExecutiveBackground: 25+ years in cybersecurity, former government agency experience
Name: Bil Harmer
Title/Credentials: CEO and Founder of Kill Switch Advisory
Background: 30+ years in industry, 5-time CISO
Name: Deidre Diamond
Title/Credentials: Founder and CEO of Cyber SN
Background: 11 years in talent matching solutions, 3 years in workforce risk management
Name: Nicholas Moy
Title/Credentials: Cybersecurity
ProfessionalBackground: 15+ years in security engineering, operations, and product management
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
[00:03:16] - Is There Really a Skills Gap?Deidre explains there is a crisis, but it's more about experience than skillsCompanies want candidates with specific experience rather than trainable talentKey quote: "If we're not willing to train and we will only take people that have the majority of what I need them to do as experience that they're doing now, I'm not going to hire them." - Deidre Diamond
[00:07:59] - The Technology Specialization ProblemEmployers often look for candidates with specific technology experienceHiring for adaptability and broader skill sets is more valuable long-term
Key quote: "I would rather hire somebody with Fortinet experience because then they will learn this and they will bring what they know from the other side to it." - Bil Harmer
[00:12:25] - Job Description Accuracy Issues
Many hiring managers don't accurately describe what they're looking for.
Digital job posting has made companies less careful about job descriptions
Key quote: "What they say doesn't always match what they want, especially for leadership roles because it can ruin a team." - Nicholas Moy
[00:19:04] - The Remote Work Revolution
Companies requiring in-office work face 5x longer hiring times
Organizations must build their culture around their work model
Key quote: "If they're doing it, they're doing it. If they're not doing it, they're not doing it. Everybody's made their choices as companies." - Deidre Diamond
[00:25:55] - The Decline of Training Investment
Companies view training as a cost center rather than investment
Employees often lack time to complete available training
Key quote: "I gave up my own training dollars to make sure my staff got training." - Amelie Koran
[00:34:30] - Tips for Hiring Managers and Job Seekers
Document actual job requirements rather than ideal candidate personas
Build and maintain your network before you need it
Key quote: "Read that job description to get through the ATS, read the job description and use their words back to them." - Bil Harmer
From Belgium to the Bay Area — join us as Simon Wijckmans, Founder & CEO of CSide, shares his inspiring startup journey with host Den Jones.
💡 We dive into:- Building a cybersecurity startup from scratch- The power of networking in tech- How CSide is securing the modern webIf you're into cybersecurity, startups, or just love a good founder story — this one’s for you. 🔐🚀
👉 Listen now. Be inspired.And don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep supporting real stories from the frontlines of tech. 💥
#909Exec #Cybersecurity #StartupJourney #FounderStories #WebSecurity #CyberStartup #TechLeadership #Entrepreneurship #Infosec #PodcastRecommendations #CyberLeaders #SecurityInnovation #LikeShareSubscribe
In this special episode of 9 0 9 Exec, host Aaron Wurthmann flips the script and interviews Den Jones, founder and CEO of 909 Cyber, about his latest initiative, Intern Connect.
Discover how this innovative platform is bridging the gap between cybersecurity students and employers, offering real-world experience and opportunities for emerging talent.
Den shares insights from his successful career at Adobe and Cisco, and explains how Intern Connect is set to revolutionize the way companies engage with early talent.
Tune in to learn about the challenges and triumphs of launching a mission-driven initiative, and why patience and enthusiasm are key to nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
Join Den Jones, veteran Chief Security Officer at Cyber Aficionado, and his partner in crime, Aaron Wurthmann, as they delve into the evolving landscape of compliance in cybersecurity.
In this engaging episode, they challenge the notion that compliance equals security and explore the strategic roadmap for businesses aiming to achieve SOC two, ISO, and beyond. Discover how compliance can unlock new revenue streams and learn about the common pitfalls to avoid on your compliance journey.
Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, this episode offers valuable insights into making compliance work for your business. Tune in for a dose of wit and wisdom in cybersecurity and beyond.
In this riveting episode of 9 0 9 Exec, host Den Jones sits down with Chase Cunningham, a retired Navy Chief and renowned cybersecurity expert known as Dr. Zero Trust.
Chase shares his fascinating journey from cryptologist to author and advisor, offering insights into the world of cybersecurity, AI, and strategic business development.
Discover how breaches can be turned into profitable opportunities with Chase's innovative "Buy the Breach" strategy, and explore the evolving landscape of Zero Trust in the age of AI.
Whether you're a cybersecurity professional or simply curious about the field, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and actionable advice.
Tune in for a deep dive into the intersection of technology, strategy, and personal growth.