In this episode of The New CISO, host Steve Moore talks with Nithin Reddy, Global VP of Cybersecurity at Dayforce, about how his dual roles in cybersecurity leadership and education shape his approach to building stronger, smarter teams.

Nithin reveals how teaching cybersecurity not only amplifies his impact but also sharpens his communication and leadership skills. From protecting millions of users’ data to mentoring students and influencing curriculum design, he shares why simplifying complex ideas is the key to inspiring both executives and future security professionals.

The conversation explores:

• The link between teaching and leadership growth
• How to manage stress in high-stakes security operations—and tell the difference between “good” and “bad” stress
• Dayforce’s in-house employee risk scoring model and the power of just-in-time access controls
• The impact of generative AI on phishing threats and how awareness training must evolve
• A real-life story of using a fake $200 gift card to teach conference-goers a lesson on social engineering

Whether you’re leading a SOC or standing at the front of a classroom, this episode is a masterclass in turning knowledge into influence—and purpose into performance.

In this episode of The New CISO, host Steve Moore speaks with Rich Durost, Chief Information Security Officer at Froedtert ThedaCare Health, about his journey from West Point cadet to cybersecurity leader—and what slicing cake has to do with building effective security programs.

Drawing from 23 years in the military and over 15 years in cybersecurity, Rich shares how discipline, preparation, and teamwork—skills first sharpened during plebe year dessert duty—translate directly into the responsibilities of a CISO. He reflects on the shift from tactical to strategic thinking, the value of mentoring deputies, and why authentic leadership and relationship-building are vital in today’s remote work environment.

Rich also explores the unique challenges of healthcare cybersecurity, the importance of aligning with clinical goals, and how CISOs can move from being the "department of no" to strategic business enablers by simply asking “how” instead of “no.”

Whether you're a rising security professional or a seasoned executive, you’ll gain practical leadership takeaways—and maybe a new appreciation for cake.

In this episode of The New CISO, host Steve Moore sits down with Michael Mendelsohn, CISO at Majesco, to discuss his journey in cybersecurity—from his early days as a software developer to leading security for a major insurance software company.

Michael shares insights into the evolving role of a CISO, the intersection of security and technology, and how curiosity and problem-solving have shaped his career. He dives into his experience building Arcus, an early security tool designed for software inventory and patch management, and how grassroots security engineering played a pivotal role in his professional growth.

Other key topics include:

✅ The changing landscape of cybersecurity leadership

✅ The balance between open-source tools and enterprise security solutions

✅ AI’s impact on security automation and risk management

✅ How security leaders can work effectively with legal teams

✅ The importance of curiosity, adaptability, and mentorship in a security career

Whether you're a seasoned security professional or an aspiring CISO, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of leading security in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

🔗 Listen now and learn how to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity leadership with a strategic and technical mindset!

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