Cybercriminals today operate more like startups than stereotypes—complete with org charts, sprint cycles, and pizza parties to celebrate successful breaches. In this episode of Security Matters, host David Puner talks with former CISO and U.S. Air Force veteran Ian Schneller about the evolving sophistication of threat actors and what it takes to stay ahead.

From zero-day vulnerabilities and machine identity risks to AI-powered attacks and insider threats, Ian shares practical strategies drawn from his experience in military intelligence, offensive cyber operations, and corporate security leadership. Learn how to build resilience, translate cyber risk into business outcomes, and lead with mission-driven clarity in a threat landscape that never slows down.

What does "secure by default" really mean—and is it enough? In this episode of CyberArk’s Security Matters, host David Puner sits down with Scott Barronton, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Diebold Nixdorf, to explore the often-overlooked risks of cloud default settings and how assumptions can lead to vulnerabilities.

Drawing on over 25 years in cybersecurity, Scott shares how he balances product and corporate security, leads a global team, and chairs his company’s AI steering committee. He discusses the importance of machine identity management, certificate automation, and building security programs that support both innovation and accountability.

Plus, Scott reflects on how his passion for travel—including a group trip to Antarctica—informs his leadership style and security mindset.

What does it take to stay calm in the face of constant cyber pressure—and why does that mindset matter more than ever? In this episode of Security Matters, host David Puner speaks with Den Jones, founder and CEO of 909Cyber, about his transition from enterprise chief security officer (CSO) to cybersecurity consultant. They explore what it means to lead with clarity and composure in a high-stakes environment, the realities of launching a firm in a crowded market, and how pragmatic security strategies—especially around identity, AI, and Zero Trust—can help organizations navigate AI-driven threats, talent shortages, and operational complexity. It’s a candid conversation about what works and what doesn’t when it comes to modern security leadership.