Reimagining Risk and the Virtual CISO

In this insightful Candid CISO episode, John Donovan interviews Carlota Sage, a vCISO with a unique, multifaceted background in tech and cybersecurity. They discuss the strengths and challenges of the vCISO role versus full-time CISO positions, emphasizing the flexibility and affordability vCISOs bring to organizations that can't justify a full-time CISO. Carlota shares her experiences at major security conferences, the increasing role of compliance in driving security initiatives, and the critical importance of community, diversity, and boundary-setting in tech. Her candid stories reveal her journey from unconventional beginnings in tech to her current advocacy for strong security programs. This episode is particularly valuable for its real-world advice on leveraging compliance as a business enabler and the power of community and diversity in cybersecurity.

Key Takeaways:

• vCISOs provide flexible, high-quality security expertise – Ideal for companies needing CISO-level support without full-time costs.

• Compliance often drives SMB security efforts – Many startups only implement security when clients or contracts require it.

• Boundary-setting is crucial in cybersecurity – Protecting personal time preserves energy and prevents burnout in demanding roles.

• Security as a sales enabler – Compliance readiness can differentiate startups and drive new business.

• Community combats cybersecurity burnout – Engaging in networks like B-sides and Diana Initiative supports career longevity.

• Diversity of thought strengthens security – Unique perspectives, not just backgrounds, drive more resilient cybersecurity programs.

• Introverts and extroverts complement in cybersecurity – Collaboration can bring quieter, skilled professionals into the spotlight.

• Third-party compliance impacts everyone – Big enterprises push smaller vendors to meet higher compliance standards.

• Speaking at conferences builds visibility – Being a security speaker, even at small events, raises professional credibility.

• Leverage security metrics for funding – Know customer acquisition costs and use them to justify security budgets.