Logging On: Real Talk Between Cyber Leaders, featuring special guest Greg Schaffer

About this episode

In this episode, Mark Burnette and Greg Schaffer discuss the evolving role of cybersecurity leaders in addressing business risks and effective communication strategies.

In this special episode of Cybersecurity Sense, host Mark Burnette is joined by Greg Schaffer, Senior vCISO and Project Manager for a boutique information security risk management firm specializing in virtual CISO and information security consulting services. Together, they explore how today's cybersecurity leaders are shifting the conversation — from tactical controls and technical jargon — to viewing security as a core business risk that demands executive understanding and informed decision-making. Greg shares his personal journey into the cybersecurity field, emphasizing the importance of empathy, communication, and risk-based thinking in modern leadership. The discussion unpacks complex topics like encryption, API security, and prioritizing high-impact risks, while underscoring the need for security professionals to help business leaders see the full picture of cyber risk. It's a must-listen for executives, IT leaders, and cybersecurity professionals who want to bridge the gap between technical defense and business strategy — and learn how to communicate cybersecurity in the language of leadership. For more insights from Greg follow his podcast, The Virtual CISO Moment .

People in this episode

Host: Mark Burnette

Guest: Greg Schaffer

Topics covered

• cybersecurity leadership
• business risk
• communication
• technical jargon
• risk management
• encryption
• API security

Keywords

• cybersecurity
• business strategy
• risk-based thinking
• executive understanding
• high-impact risks
• encryption
• API security

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: LBMC, The Virtual CISO Moment

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