Life of a CISO with Dr. Eric Cole
The biggest threat to you and this country today is a cyber attack. Are you protected? Find out now with Dr. Eric Cole, former special agent for the CIA and current CEO of Secure Anchor.
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How CISOs Should Prepare for AI and Cloud Risks in 2026 | Matt Lea
02/26/2026
How CISOs Should Prepare for AI and Cloud Risks in 2026 | Matt Lea
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with cloud and AI expert Matt Lea to unpack the real risks and opportunities shaping cybersecurity today. They dive into AWS outages, cloud resiliency strategies, and how organizations should think about redundancy instead of blindly trusting a single provider. The conversation explores how CISOs can balance cost versus risk when designing cloud architectures and why insider issues, burnout, and knowledge silos often pose bigger threats than external attackers. Matt shares practical insights on AWS AI tools like Bedrock and SageMaker, when to adopt them, and how AI is changing cloud operations at scale. The episode also covers startup lessons, building resilient teams, and the importance of documenting knowledge to avoid single points of failure. Plus, they discuss Cloud War Games, a hands-on approach to training teams under real outage scenarios. If you’re a security leader, cloud architect, or technologist navigating AI and cloud transformation, this episode delivers actionable guidance on building resilient systems, managing risk, and preparing for the next wave of cyber challenges.
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Why CISOs Must Lead the AI Conversation Before It’s Too Late
02/05/2026
Why CISOs Must Lead the AI Conversation Before It’s Too Late
As 2026 begins, security leaders are facing growing uncertainty across technology, economics, and global risk. In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole challenges the fear-driven narrative around artificial intelligence and explains why CISOs must take the lead in guiding AI adoption, not reacting to it. Dr. Cole breaks down why AI is not here to replace people, but to eliminate repetitive, low-value work so humans can focus on creativity, judgment, and leadership. He explains the danger of allowing AI to make decisions without emotional and human context, and why unmanaged AI tools are quietly creating massive data leaks and financial losses inside organizations. This episode outlines how CISOs should responsibly manage AI as an enterprise application, just like any other critical technology, and how to clearly present AI risk, cost savings, and solutions to the board in language executives understand. Dr. Cole also shares a practical framework for aligning security budgets, roadmaps, and business risk so CISOs can drive real impact and earn trust at the executive level. If you are navigating AI, boardroom expectations, or the evolving role of the CISO, this episode delivers clear guidance on how to lead with simplicity, accountability, and solutions.
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Why Executive Trust Makes or Breaks a CISO | Guest: Zachary Lewis
01/22/2026
Why Executive Trust Makes or Breaks a CISO | Guest: Zachary Lewis
Ransomware isn’t a technical problem—it’s a leadership test. In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole welcomes back bestselling author and cybersecurity leader Zachary Lewis to break down the real-world realities of responding to a ransomware attack. Drawing from firsthand experience, they discuss why executive relationships, preparation, and credibility matter more than tools, how CISOs survive high-pressure incidents, and what separates leaders who thrive after a breach from those who don’t. If you’re a CISO, security leader, or aspiring executive, this episode offers practical insight into what ransomware response really looks like when everything is on the line.
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What It Really Takes to Succeed as a CISO | Guest: Matthew Webster
01/15/2026
What It Really Takes to Succeed as a CISO | Guest: Matthew Webster
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with cybersecurity leader Matthew Webster to explore what it really takes to succeed in the modern CISO role. Matthew shares his journey from IT into federal and commercial cybersecurity, the lessons that shaped his leadership approach, and why technical skills alone aren’t enough at the executive level. Together, they discuss the importance of communication, influence, and business alignment, how CISOs can navigate compliance and legal challenges, and why building strong relationships with executives and legal teams is critical. This conversation offers practical insights for current and aspiring CISOs on translating cyber risk into business value, earning a seat at the table, and leading with clarity in an increasingly complex security landscape.
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Why Intellectual Property Is the New Cybersecurity Battleground
01/08/2026
Why Intellectual Property Is the New Cybersecurity Battleground
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole explains why intellectual property is becoming the most important cybersecurity priority for organizations as artificial intelligence accelerates innovation and imitation. As AI makes products, services, and content easier to replicate, traditional approaches to data security are no longer enough. Dr. Cole breaks down why trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets are now the true differentiators in the market and how failing to protect them directly impacts company valuation and competitiveness. Looking toward 2030 and beyond, this episode challenges outdated security models and shows how cybersecurity, AI, cloud, and IT must align around protecting intellectual property as a unified strategy. Dr. Cole shares practical guidance on identifying an organization’s most valuable IP, closing gaps between legal policy and technical controls, and using AI defensively to stay ahead of competitors and emerging threats. This episode is essential listening for CISOs, executives, and board leaders focused on long term growth, security, and business value.
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The 2026 Reset for Security Leaders
01/01/2026
The 2026 Reset for Security Leaders
In this New Year’s episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole reflects on the challenges of 2025 and delivers a powerful reset framework for CISOs entering 2026. Drawing from real-world coaching, executive leadership principles, and personal experience, Dr. Cole challenges security leaders to stop thinking like technologists and start acting like true chief officers. This episode breaks down three essential pillars every world-class CISO must define: who you need to become, your single top priority, and your North Star. Dr. Cole explains why consistency, discipline, and executive alignment matter more than tools, why most CISOs struggle with focus, and how habits, planning, and accountability can rapidly transform your impact and credibility. From redefining the CISO role as a future CEO pipeline, to practical strategies like executive one-on-ones, time blocking, and choosing a guiding North Star such as Zero Trust or data protection, this episode provides a clear roadmap to leadership growth. If you want to reset your mindset, elevate your influence, and lead cybersecurity as a business function in 2026, this episode is a must-listen.
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How AI, Cloud Outages, and Data Protection Will Define Cybersecurity in 2026
12/25/2025
How AI, Cloud Outages, and Data Protection Will Define Cybersecurity in 2026
As we close out 2025 and prepare for 2026, Dr. Eric Cole breaks down what it truly takes to be a world-class CISO in the year ahead. In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Cole shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, health, resilience, and why taking care of yourself is foundational to protecting your organization. From personal reflection to executive-level strategy, this episode goes far beyond technical controls. Dr. Cole then dives deep into the three forces reshaping cybersecurity in 2026: artificial intelligence, cloud reliability, and ransomware, all centered around one core principle that too many organizations ignore: data protection. You will learn why AI is an augmentation tool, not a replacement for humans, how unrestricted AI use is creating massive new risks, why recent cloud outages are a warning sign for every executive, and how CISOs can regain trust, influence, and a permanent seat at the boardroom table. This episode is essential listening for CISOs, security leaders, executives, and anyone responsible for protecting critical data in an increasingly unstable digital world. Part two of this series continues next week.
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Understanding the Role of a CISO
12/18/2025
Understanding the Role of a CISO
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole explains why world-class CISOs must think like chief officers—not technicians. Drawing from boardroom experience and real-world cyber events, he breaks down the three threats executives are most concerned about heading into 2026: ransomware, cloud failures, and AI. Dr. Cole unpacks why the Land Rover Jaguar ransomware attack marked a turning point in cybersecurity, showing how a single breach can impact an entire national economy. He also highlights the growing over-reliance on cloud providers, referencing major AWS and Microsoft outages, and warns that organizations are rolling out AI without understanding data leakage, hallucinations, or business risk. At the core of the discussion is a powerful, concise definition of cybersecurity—and why most organizations still get it wrong. Dr. Cole explains why not knowing your critical data is the root cause behind ransomware exposure, cloud outages, and reckless AI adoption. He closes with what he believes should be the #1 cybersecurity priority for 2026: a complete data and asset inventory. This episode is a must-watch for CISOs, executives, and board members who want clarity, credibility, and control in an increasingly risky digital world.
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Who You Must Become to Be a World-Class CISO
12/11/2025
Who You Must Become to Be a World-Class CISO
In this powerful episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole shifts the focus from strategy, roadmaps, and organizational security, and puts the spotlight directly on YOU. Instead of asking what you want or why you want it, Dr. Cole explains that the real key to becoming a world-class CISO is asking: Who do you need to become? Dr. Cole breaks down the three types of CISOs, the difference between tactical and true strategic leadership, and what it really means to operate as a corporate officer. From proximity and communication to compensation models, risk tolerance, leadership habits, and even physical health, this episode lays out a blueprint for designing the ultimate version of yourself, the version capable of sitting with executives, influencing business outcomes, and driving organizational success. If you’re ready to elevate from technical expert to business leader, this episode will give you the mindset, targets, and tools to build your future.
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Gratitude, Giving & Becoming a World-Class CISO
11/27/2025
Gratitude, Giving & Becoming a World-Class CISO
In this special Thanksgiving episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole delivers one of his most personal and powerful messages yet. Before diving into the technical skills of executive briefings and CISO strategy, he shifts focus to something far more foundational: gratitude, giving, and appreciation—the mindset pillars that shape world-class cybersecurity leaders. Dr. Cole shares why gratitude isn’t just nice to have — it’s essential for peak performance, mental resilience, and long-term success in cybersecurity. He breaks down the five levels of appreciation every CISO should practice (yourself, family, business, country, and the world) and explains why self-gratitude is the non-negotiable first step. Dr. Cole closes with actionable homework and a reminder to make yourself, your family, and your mission a priority this season. Access Dr. Cole’s $299 course deal here: https://ar407.infusionsoft.app/app/storeFront/showProductDetail?productId=135
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CISO Priorities for 2026: Health, Leadership & Risk Mastery
11/20/2025
CISO Priorities for 2026: Health, Leadership & Risk Mastery
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole explains the top priorities every CISO must focus on as we move into 2026. He begins by highlighting the importance of personal health and why nutrition, hydration, and daily habits directly impact your ability to lead and make smart decisions in cybersecurity. After facing his own health challenges and losing friends in the industry, he shares why health must be the starting point for any world-class CISO. Dr. Cole also breaks down what it means to operate as a true chief officer. He covers why CISOs need to work in person with other executives, ask better questions, and always be prepared with the three slides that guide clear risk decisions. He also discusses the lessons learned from recent cloud outages and why understanding risk posture and critical data is essential for 2026. The episode encourages listeners to begin planning now, build their CISO roadmap, reduce noise, and strengthen their executive mindset. Access Dr. Cole’s $299 course deal here: https://ar407.infusionsoft.app/app/storeFront/showProductDetail?productId=135
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Relationships Over Firewalls with Attila Torok
11/13/2025
Relationships Over Firewalls with Attila Torok
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with Attila Torok, CISO at GoTo (formerly LogMeIn), to unpack what it really takes to move from security engineer to strategic leader. Attila shares his journey, the advice that shaped his career, and why “relationships matter more than engineering skills.” From mastering executive communication in three bullet points to building your personal brand and navigating AI in the enterprise, this conversation is packed with practical insight for anyone aspiring to the C-suite in cybersecurity.
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Relationships Over Firewalls with Attila Torok
11/13/2025
Relationships Over Firewalls with Attila Torok
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with Attila Torok, CISO at GoTo (formerly LogMeIn), to unpack what it really takes to move from security engineer to strategic leader. Attila shares his journey, the advice that shaped his career, and why “relationships matter more than engineering skills.” From mastering executive communication in three bullet points to building your personal brand and navigating AI in the enterprise, this conversation is packed with practical insight for anyone aspiring to the C-suite in cybersecurity.
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When the Cyber Alarms Go Silent
11/06/2025
When the Cyber Alarms Go Silent
In this urgent and eye-opening episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole dives into one of the most consequential moments in U.S. cybersecurity history: the expiration of the Information Sharing Act of 2015, which quietly lapsed the same day the government shut down. Dr. Cole explains how this coincidence has effectively cut off the flow of critical cyber threat intelligence between the U.S. government and private sector, leaving organizations blind to emerging attacks and operating at a major disadvantage. He breaks down the data-driven realities every CISO must communicate to their executive teams: The collapse of formal information sharing protections and the resulting liability risks for companies. The severe reduction of federal cybersecurity capacity, with 65% of CISA furloughed. The surge in cyberattacks from foreign adversaries exploiting U.S. vulnerability. Practical strategies for regaining the upper hand—reducing attack surfaces, deploying AI-based threat detection, and reassessing over-reliance on cloud providers following suspicious AWS and Microsoft outages. Dr. Cole urges CISOs to lead with data, not emotion, and to act decisively in this new era of “cyber wartime.” Whether you’re an executive or a security professional, this episode delivers the critical insights and strategic playbook you need to safeguard your organization when the nation’s early warning system has gone dark.
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Lessons in Trust, Training, and Threat Intelligence with Michael Centrella
10/30/2025
Lessons in Trust, Training, and Threat Intelligence with Michael Centrella
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with Michael Centrella, a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Secret Service turned cybersecurity executive, to discuss how lessons from protecting presidents translate into protecting digital infrastructure. Centrella shares his journey from investigating counterfeit currency to leading global cyber investigations, emphasizing how human error remains the biggest security vulnerability despite technological advances. Together, they explore the evolving ransomware landscape, the challenges of balancing security with business friction, and the vital need for public-private collaboration, especially in light of the expiration of the CISA Information Sharing Act of 2015. Centrella also highlights the importance of supply chain visibility and continuous monitoring in today’s interconnected world, sharing insights from his new role at SecurityScorecard. The conversation closes with timeless advice drawn from both law enforcement and cybersecurity: “Trust but verify.” Whether you’re leading a security team or steering a business through today’s cyber threats, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom on resilience, leadership, and the power of informed vigilance.
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From Good to World-Class: Aligning Cybersecurity with Business Success
10/23/2025
From Good to World-Class: Aligning Cybersecurity with Business Success
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole breaks down what truly separates good CISOs from world-class ones — the ability to align cybersecurity strategy with the core business mission. He explains that understanding what business your organization is really in is the foundation of effective security leadership. Using real-world examples, Dr. Cole highlights how CISOs must adapt their security priorities based on organizational goals, whether it’s stabilizing growth, driving acquisitions, or enhancing customer experience. He challenges the outdated view that security and business efficiency are at odds, emphasizing instead that cybersecurity should be a business enabler — efficient, cost-effective, and even profitable. Dr. Cole also explores critical areas like asset visibility, reducing attack surfaces through simplification, and aligning budgets to the CIA triad (confidentiality, integrity, availability). The episode wraps up with actionable insights on executive communication, including how to present cyber risk in business language using a simple, four-column “magic slide”: what could happen, likelihood of occurrence, cost if it happens, and cost to fix it. Dr. Cole’s message is clear — world-class CISOs think like executives first, technologists second.
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From Race Cars to Risk: Dual CISO-CTO Leadership with Ben Wilcox
10/16/2025
From Race Cars to Risk: Dual CISO-CTO Leadership with Ben Wilcox
In this high-speed episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole welcomes Ben Wilcox, a rare dual-role executive serving as both CISO and CTO at ProArch — and a race car driver to boot. Ben shares his 30-year journey from building websites in the early internet days to leading enterprise security and technology strategy today. Dr. Cole and Ben dive into the challenges and opportunities of balancing technical innovation with cybersecurity, how to win executive support for security investments, and how to leverage AI for productivity. Ben also drops valuable advice for aspiring CISOs, emphasizing the power of saying “yes” to new challenges, building business-aligned security strategies, and continuously learning. This episode is packed with practical insights on executive communication, risk quantification, AI in cybersecurity, and even how lessons from the racetrack apply to the boardroom.
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The Essential Guide to Becoming a CISO
10/09/2025
The Essential Guide to Becoming a CISO
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.
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Satellite Communications, AI, and the Future of Secure Connectivity with Guest Brett Miller
10/02/2025
Satellite Communications, AI, and the Future of Secure Connectivity with Guest Brett Miller
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.
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The Journey to Becoming a CISO: Lessons Learned with Azunna Anyanwu
09/25/2025
The Journey to Becoming a CISO: Lessons Learned with Azunna Anyanwu
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.
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Cybersecurity, AI, and Communication: Dr. Eric Cole with Dr. Jill Schiefelbein
09/18/2025
Cybersecurity, AI, and Communication: Dr. Eric Cole with Dr. Jill Schiefelbein
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.
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Building a World-Class CISO Career with Guest Shannon Brewster
09/11/2025
Building a World-Class CISO Career with Guest Shannon Brewster
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.
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Communicating Cybersecurity to Executives with Guest Shashank Shekhar
09/04/2025
Communicating Cybersecurity to Executives with Guest Shashank Shekhar
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.
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Cybersecurity Leadership Across the Globe with Chris & Damian
08/28/2025
Cybersecurity Leadership Across the Globe with Chris & Damian
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
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Simplifying Cybersecurity, Time Management & Strategic Playbooks
08/21/2025
Simplifying Cybersecurity, Time Management & Strategic Playbooks
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.
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The #1 Skill CISOs Need for Career Acceleration (And How to Master It)
08/14/2025
The #1 Skill CISOs Need for Career Acceleration (And How to Master It)
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.
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Building Credibility Before the Crisis: Zachary Lewis on Frameworks & Board Trust
08/07/2025
Building Credibility Before the Crisis: Zachary Lewis on Frameworks & Board Trust
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.
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Back to the Basics: How World-Class CISOs Lock Down External Servers
08/07/2025
Back to the Basics: How World-Class CISOs Lock Down External Servers
In this solo episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole returns to the mic after a series of interviews to dive deep into the #1 foundational skill every Chief Information Security Officer must master—securing internet-facing servers. With the rising wave of breaches hitting not just Fortune 50 giants but small and mid-size companies, Dr. Cole walks through the exact steps you must take to go back to basics and become a world-class CISO. From identifying forgotten assets to hardening authentication and revamping your patching strategy, this episode is your blueprint to stop attacks before they start. Dr. Cole also shares real-world breach examples, discusses the risks of relying solely on IT, and explains why a functioning change control board and MFA implementation for admins are non-negotiable. 📩 To book a Cyber Health Check or connect with Dr. Cole directly: ecole@secure-anchor.com
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Building Cybersecurity from the Ground Up: A Conversation with Chuck Brooks
07/17/2025
Building Cybersecurity from the Ground Up: A Conversation with Chuck Brooks
In this powerful episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with cybersecurity thought leader Chuck Brooks—one of the industry's original influencers—to uncover how the past, present, and future of cybersecurity are being shaped by leadership, emerging technology, and real-world experience. From working with President Reagan to helping stand up the Department of Homeland Security, Chuck shares stories that reveal the critical role CISOs play in national security, business resilience, and global collaboration. Together, Dr. Cole and Chuck Brooks dive into the importance of soft skills for cybersecurity executives, why cyber is no longer a cost center but a business enabler, and how today's leaders must understand risk, policy, and communication as much as technology. They also explore the evolving role of zero trust, disruptive technologies like AI and quantum, and how professionals can brand themselves to stand out in a crowded field. Whether you're a seasoned CISO or a cybersecurity manager looking to grow, this episode will expand your thinking—and inspire your next move.
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Mastering the CISO Journey with Guest Christophe Foulon
07/10/2025
Mastering the CISO Journey with Guest Christophe Foulon
In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole sits down with cybersecurity expert and fellow podcaster Christophe Foulon to dive deep into the evolving role of the Chief Information Security Officer. From breaking into cybersecurity to leading organizations through strategic risk decisions, Christophe shares real-world insights on how to transition from technical roles to executive leadership. They explore the challenges of balancing hands-on work with high-level strategy, how to communicate with business leaders without getting lost in technical jargon, and how to manage burnout while building organizational resilience. Christophe also tackles major topics like AI, zero trust, cyberwarfare, and BYOD policies, offering practical advice for today’s and tomorrow’s CISOs. If you're aiming to elevate your cybersecurity career or want to understand how top leaders think, this episode is packed with guidance, clarity, and perspective.
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