From Battlefield to Boardroom: Ricoh Danielson’s Lessons on Cyber Warfare and Digital Forensics

Welcome back to To the Point Cybersecurity, where hosts Rachael Lyon and Jonathan Knepher take you inside the ever-evolving world of cyber threats, digital defense, and the impact of technology on our daily lives. In this episode, they sit down with Ricoh Danielson—national security expert, digital forensics pro, and US Army combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan—to unpack the intersections of cyber warfare, digital forensics, and the shifting global threat landscape.

Get an inside look at how Ricoh’s experiences on the battlefield shaped his career in cybersecurity, and how the strategies used in combat translate directly to the frontlines of cyber defense in both government and the private sector. From ransomware negotiations to the emerging risks of volunteer cyber armies and nation-state actors, Ricoh brings real-world stories and sharp insights on how prepared we really are—personally, organizationally, and nationally—for the next wave of hybrid warfare.

Plus, hear candid discussions on the shortcomings of current policy, the growing role of artificial intelligence in both attack and defense, and what practical steps individuals and businesses can take to harden their cyber resilience. It’s an eye-opening conversation that puts the realities of global conflict, digital forensics, and security leadership into a uniquely personal perspective. Whether you’re a cybersecurity professional, business leader, or just trying to keep your data safe, this episode peels back the curtain on what’s really at stake in today’s interconnected world.

For links and resources discussed in this episode, please visit our show notes at https://www.forcepoint.com/govpodcast/e334