Summary
In this episode of the DTC podcast, Deepak Jeevankumar interviews Karl Mattson, a senior security leader at Endor Labs, discussing the RSA Conference's significance in cybersecurity, the impact of AI on security, and the current concerns of CISOs. They explore strategies for startups to maximize their presence at the conference and the importance of aligning security strategies with business objectives. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the role of innovation in shaping the future.

Takeaways

• AI is becoming a central theme in security solutions.
• CISOs are focusing on macroeconomic factors affecting security investments.
• Automation is crucial for resource efficiency in security teams.
• Startups should prioritize one-on-one meetings with potential customers, but not just the CISOs.
• RSAC's Innovation Sandbox provides credibility and visibility for startups.
• Founders should seek warm introductions to CISOs for effective engagement but also look to meet with director-level professionals.
• Your CEO should have a packed schedule well in advance of the show. They should not be staffing your booth hoping to catch qualified buyers walking by.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to RSA Conference and Key Themes
02:57 The Role of AI in Cybersecurity
06:00 CISO Perspectives and Current Concerns
09:03 Maximizing ROI at RSA Conference
11:57 Advice for Startups and Founders
14:55 Endor's Strategy for RSA Conference
17:14 The Success of RSA Conference

SUMMARY
In this conversation, Deepak Jeevankumar interviews Ben Carr, the Chief Security and Trust Officer at Halcyon Security, discussing the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, particularly in relation to AI and the RSA Conference. They explore the challenges of AI adoption in enterprises, the changing role of the CISO, and the importance of building relationships with the board. The discussion also highlights the significance of the RSA Conference for networking and learning, as well as strategies for startups to stand out in a crowded market. Ben shares insights into Halcyon's unique approach to ransomware solutions, emphasizing the need for differentiation in a competitive environment.

TAKEAWAYS

• AI continues to be a central theme in cybersecurity discussions.
• CISOs face challenges in integrating AI into security frameworks.
• The role of the CISO is evolving to encompass IT responsibilities.
• Effective communication with stakeholders and building relationships with the board is crucial for CISOs.
• CISOs should focus on aligning security initiatives with business goals.
• RSA Conference provides valuable networking opportunities for CISOs and that's where they should spend their time.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to RSA Conference 2025
01:11 The Evolving Themes of AI in Cybersecurity
03:41 Challenges of AI Adoption in Enterprises
07:02 The Changing Role of the CISO
11:30 Connecting with the Board: A CISO's Perspective
15:07 The Importance of RSA Conference for CISOs
17:49 Startups at RSA: Standing Out in a Crowded Market
20:08 Halcyon's Unique Approach to Ransomware Solutions

SUMMARY
In this episode, Deepak Jeevankumar interviews Renee Gutmann, a seasoned CISO with extensive experience attending the RSA Conference. They discuss the evolution of the conference, advice for new CISOs, emerging trends in cybersecurity, the role of AI and automation, and the future challenges posed by quantum computing. Rene shares insights on navigating the conference, engaging with startups, and the importance of reducing friction in cybersecurity practices.

TAKEAWAYS

• Renee has attended the RSA Conference since 1996, witnessing its evolution growing from a technical focus to a broader industry gathering.
• Networking with other CISOs is crucial for learning and collaboration and Renee emphasizes the importance of learning and sharing knowledge at conferences.
• Renee emphasizes the need for startups to understand their ideal customer and for her, why seeing an early-stage company engage with the channel is important.
• She's always looking for solutions that automate and reduce friction in cybersecurity and she's hopeful about AI in this context.
• Renee's experience as a judge at the RSA Innovation Sandbox highlights the importance of assessing both technology and execution capabilities.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to RSA Conference and Its Evolution
04:03 Navigating the RSA Conference as a CISO
09:53 Emerging Trends and Technologies in Cybersecurity
16:08 The Role of AI and Automation in Cybersecurity
20:04 Future Challenges: Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity
24:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts