909Exec

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 CoveredMediumship 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 CoveredOpsera'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 SummaryIn 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 HighlightsPieter 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 CoveredBlended 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 SummaryThe 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 HighlightsBackground: 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 CoveredHex-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 techCALL 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 KoranTitle/Credentials: Cybersecurity ExecutiveBackground: 25+ years in cybersecurity, former government agency experienceName: Bil HarmerTitle/Credentials: CEO and Founder of Kill Switch AdvisoryBackground: 30+ years in industry, 5-time CISOName: Deidre DiamondTitle/Credentials: Founder and CEO of Cyber SNBackground: 11 years in talent matching solutions, 3 years in workforce risk managementName: Nicholas MoyTitle/Credentials: Cybersecurity ProfessionalBackground: 15+ years in security engineering, operations, and product managementEPISODE 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-termKey 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 descriptionsKey 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 RevolutionCompanies requiring in-office work face 5x longer hiring timesOrganizations must build their culture around their work modelKey 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 InvestmentCompanies view training as a cost center rather than investmentEmployees often lack time to complete available trainingKey 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 SeekersDocument actual job requirements rather than ideal candidate personasBuild and maintain your network before you need itKey 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.

Join us for the inaugural episode of the newly rebranded 909Exec podcast, where host Den Jones sits down with Rana Salman, CEO of Salman Consulting, author, and TEDx speaker. [00:14] Dive into the world of sales as Rana shares her journey from an immigrant family to leading a successful consultancy. Discover the power of asking "Why not?" and how it can transform your approach to sales and entrepreneurship. [28:29] Rana discusses the importance of building authentic relationships, the impact of AI on sales culture, and the lessons learned from running marathons. [34:25] Whether you're a seasoned sales leader or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you thrive in the ever-evolving world of sales. [11:31] Don't miss this engaging conversation on the first episode under the new name, 909 Exec. [00:36]Main Topics CoveredPodcast Rebranding: The transition from "Cyber 9 0 9" to "9 0 9 Exec" to better align with the focus on executive journeys rather than cybersecurity. [03:35]Sales Effectiveness: Rana's approach to improving sales effectiveness through essential skills, focusing on human dynamics and business-level conversations.Entrepreneurial Journey: Rana's experiences in starting her consultancy, the challenges faced, and the importance of perseverance and strategic networking.Role of AI in Sales: Discussion on integrating AI with human dynamics in sales and the potential cultural shifts. [16:09]Running and Sales: Rana draws parallels between running and sales, emphasizing mental toughness, discipline, and adaptability. [34:03]TEDx Experience: Rana's TEDx talk on the power of asking "Why not?" and its influence on her personal and professional life. [28:29]Building Relationships: The importance of nurturing relationships in sales and the impact of first impressions and authenticity.

Unlocking Leadership Potential: Insights from Executive Coach Davy McFaddenIntroduction SummaryThe episode begins with the host, Den Jones, introducing the podcast "Cyber 909," which is soon to be renamed "909 exec." He describes the podcast as a source of cybersecurity insights, leadership, coaching, and mentorship, aimed at helping listeners thrive in the technology world. Guest HighlightsThe guest for this episode is Devi McFadden, an executive and team coach specializing in working with leaders and teams in the tech industry. [01:25] Devi shares her background, starting in a nonprofit and healthcare before moving to Cisco, where she found her passion for coaching. [14:16] She emphasizes the importance of genuine and authentic leadership and discusses her journey to starting her own coaching business.Main Topics CoveredLeadership and Coaching: The episode delves into the significance of executive coaching, the transition from technical roles to leadership positions, and the challenges faced by new leaders. [37:59]Career Transitions: Devi discusses her personal career transitions, including moving across the country and shifting industries, highlighting the importance of gut feelings and personal values in career decisions. [14:16]Building a Leadership Brand: The conversation covers how leaders can develop their personal brand and the impact of authentic leadership on teams and organizations. [22:54]Starting a Business: Devi shares insights on starting her own coaching business, emphasizing the importance of honing one's craft and building a network before making the leap.Handling Difficult Leadership Situations: The episode touches on managing layoffs and other challenging scenarios with integrity and empathy. [47:36]

Introduction SummaryThe episode begins with the host, Den Jones, introducing the podcast "Cyber 909," which is a source for cybersecurity insights and stories. Den mentions the upcoming name change to "909 Exec" while assuring listeners that the content will remain the same. The podcast focuses on leadership, surviving and thriving in the cybersecurity landscape. Guest HighlightsThe guest for this episode is Matej Zahar, a CIO and CSO at Content AI, a headless CMS provider. Matej is originally from Slovakia and has lived in several European countries, including the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Ireland. He has a background in formal cybersecurity education and has been in the field for over 12 years. Matej is actively involved in mentoring through Women for Cyber and emphasizes the importance of diversity and talent in the industry. Main Topics CoveredTravel and Career Journey: Matej discusses her career path, including her moves across Europe for education and work, and her passion for travel and exploring new cultures. Communication and Cultural Nuances: The conversation touches on the importance of communication in cybersecurity roles, especially when dealing with different cultures and languages.AI in Content Management: Matej explains how Content AI uses AI for managing large-scale content, including search, translation, categorization, and more, highlighting the importance of AI in modern content management systems. Privacy and Risk Management: The discussion covers privacy concerns related to AI, especially in Europe, and the cautious approach towards data governance and risk management. Mentoring and Community Engagement: Matej shares his experiences in mentoring and the value of mentor-mentee relationships, emphasizing the need for diversity and new talent in cybersecurity. Sales and Communication: The episode includes insights into effective sales communication, highlighting the importance of understanding customer challenges and respecting boundaries.Personal Interests and Professional Growth: Matej talks about his personal interests, such as running, and how they contribute to her professional life by providing clarity and reflection time.

Introduction SummaryThe podcast "Cyber 909/909Exec" is hosted by Den Jones, a veteran chief security officer and cyber aficionado. The show aims to provide insights into cybersecurity, technology leadership, wellness, and surviving burnout. Den Jones introduces fascinating guests from his network to share unique stories, opinions, predictions, and analysis.Guest HighlightsGuest Name: Yumi Tomita Background: Chief Director and Senior Trainer at Imagination Improvement Institute. Key Contributions: Yumi specializes in imagination exercises, philosophy, and mindset tips to enhance mental wellbeing, creativity, and self-understanding. She was introduced to the methodology by her father, who found it beneficial for decision-making and mental health as a company leader. Yumi overcame social anxiety and stress through this method, which became her passion.Main Topics Covered- Imagination Improvement Methodology: Focuses on music-guided visualization exercises to enhance creativity and mental wellbeing. It uses imagination as a tool for inner communication and self-reflection. - Neuroscience and Creativity: Discusses recent studies showing that creativity involves full brain processes, not just the right brain. The methodology aims to activate imagination and executive attention networks for creative thinking. - Clientele and Benefits: Workshops are conducted for universities and companies to manage stress, enhance creativity, and improve team building. Clients gain tools for stress management and creative problem-solving. - Future Skills and Business Trends: Imagination is highlighted as a crucial skill that cannot be replaced by AI, with creative thinking prioritized by businesses. - Personal Growth and Goal Setting: Visualization exercises help individuals set meaningful goals and understand their inner motivations, contributing to personal and professional growth. - Future Vision: Yumi aims to establish imagination as a recognized self-help methodology alongside meditation and mindfulness.

Introduction SummaryThe podcast "Cyber 909" is hosted by Den Jones, a veteran chief security officer and cyber aficionado. [00:10] The show aims to provide unique insights into cybersecurity through stories, opinions, predictions, and analysis. The podcast is set to be rebranded as "909 exec," maintaining the same content under a new name. [01:01:44]Guest HighlightsThis episode features Den Jones, founder and CEO of 909 Cyber, and Aaron Wurthmann, Advisory CISO and master of ceremonies. [00:10] They discuss their roles and experiences in the cybersecurity field, emphasizing personal growth, leadership, and the importance of authenticity and empathy in professional settings. [28:05]Main Topics CoveredPersonal Growth and Leadership: Den and Aaron explore the concept of personal growth, emphasizing the importance of legacy, empathy, and curiosity in leadership roles. [03:08]Mentorship Strategies: They discuss effective mentorship strategies that encourage independence and growth, highlighting the importance of listening and providing guidance without stifling creativity. [09:36]Career Journeys and Pivotal Moments: Both share their career paths, discussing pivotal moments and lessons learned from failures and successes. [22:31]Ethical Responsibilities in Tech: The conversation touches on the ethical responsibilities of tech leaders, particularly in the context of AI and data privacy. [28:36]Work-Life Balance and Personal Fulfillment: They discuss the evolving concept of work-life balance and the role of personal fulfillment in defining success. [53:30]Networking through Hobbies: The hosts share how hobbies like music and pickleball can serve as platforms for networking and relationship building in the tech industry. [31:35]

Introduction SummaryThe podcast "Cyber 909" hosted by Den Jones, a veteran chief security officer, introduces the episode with a brief mention of the upcoming rebranding to "909 exec." Den shares his Monday morning routine and introduces the guest, Dan Winter from Altus Executive Coaching. Guest HighlightsBackground: Dan Winter grew up in Santa Clara, California, and has nearly 40 years of experience working with big tech companies in management and leadership development. Key Contributions:- Worked with leaders and teams globally, including in China and Latin America. - Focused on individual coaching and team development. - Participated in strategy meetings with C-suite executives to align business and people strategies.- Transitioned from an HR director role to focusing on leadership and organizational development. Main Topics Covered- Leadership Development: The challenges of promoting technically gifted individuals to leadership roles without adequate training. - Altus Executive Coaching: The company's mission to help leaders and teams have effective conversations to achieve results. - Team Dynamics: The difference between groups and teams, and the importance of commitment to a shared future. - Common Leadership Failures: Examples of leadership failures, including poor communication and lack of coordination. - AI in Leadership: The potential and limitations of AI in leadership and team development. - Personal Leadership Insights: The importance of trust, clarity, and asking for help in leadership roles.

We're in the process of rebranding from Cyber909 to 909ExecIntroduction SummaryIn this episode of Cyber 909, host Den Jones introduces the podcast and welcomes Scott Hellman, a special agent with the FBI, who has extensive experience in managing various types of cyber investigations. The episode promises to delve into Scott's insights and experiences in the field of cybersecurity. Guest HighlightsBackground: Scott Hellman has been an FBI agent for almost 17 years, focusing on cyber investigations. Key Contributions:- Managed investigations related to ransomware, business email compromise, data breaches, and nation-state threats.- Recently delivered a keynote at the Cybersecurity Summit in Santa Clara. - Emphasizes the importance of awareness in combating cyber threats. - Discusses the role of AI in enhancing both cyber attacks and defenses. Main Topics Covered- Cyber Threat Awareness: The importance of raising awareness about cyber threats to help prevent them. - Common Cyber Attacks: Discussion on phishing, ransomware, and tech support fraud, including their prevalence and impact. - Cybercrime as a Service: The ecosystem of services that support cybercriminal activities, such as malware as a service and money laundering. - AI in Cybersecurity: The dual role of AI in enhancing cyber attacks and aiding in defense mechanisms. - Emotional Wellness in Cybersecurity: The psychological impact of cybercrime on individuals and the importance of mindfulness and emotional wellness in preventing and responding to cyber threats. - FBI and Partner Resources: Information on how companies can engage with the FBI and other partners like CISA for support and resources in cybersecurity.