What The Hack Is A CISO

About What The Hack Is A CISO

Welcome to What The Hack Show (WTH), the podcast where cyber security gets real, raw, and a little bit rebellious. A unique series that dives deep into the untold, unfiltered stories from the world of cybersecurity. The What The Hack Show podcast is supported by Sysdig, GCP (Google Cloud Platform), and Predictiv. Visit the Learn Cloud Native Hub for articles that provide a foundational understanding for the core pillars of cloud and container security.

Publisher

Supported by Sysdig

Category

business · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

14 Oct 2024

Latest episode

9 Dec 2025

Latest episodes

3 of 17 episodes have a transcript.

1. 

   9 Dec 2025

   S2 E7: Cloud Misconfigurations at Scale

   Cybersecurity journalist Danny Palmer and Petra Vukmirovic of Numan join host Rayna Stamboliyska to examine cloud misconfigurations and provide strategies for improving cloud security processes, in this interview episode.

2. 

   25 Nov 2025TRANSCRIPT

   S2 E6: Alert fatigue

   Rayna Stamboliyska interviews Goher Mohammad, Head of Information Security at L&Q, and cyber security journalist Kate O’Flaherty, about the dangers of alert fatigue and how it impacts organizational security.

3. 

   11 Nov 2025TRANSCRIPT

   S2 E5: Deepfake Executive Fraud

   Host Rayna Stamboliyska interviews Flick March of Accenture and journalist Danny Palmer about deepfake executive fraud, including how security teams confront these attacks and mitigate business risk.

4. 

   28 Oct 2025TRANSCRIPT

   S2 E4: The Imposter Employee

   Journalist Kate O'Flaherty and cybersecurity expert Roger Grimes discuss a real security breach caused by a fake IT employee, revealing vulnerabilities and potential damage in this interview episode.

5. 

   14 Oct 2025

   S2 E3: Security Team Social Engineering

   CISO Didar Gelici and Sander Almekinders discuss social engineering tactics and how security teams can defend themselves and their organizations against ransomware attacks in this interview episode.

6. 

   30 Sept 2025

   S2 E2: Communication Breakdowns Between Teams

   Cyber security expert Glenn Wilson and journalist Joe Fay discuss communication breakdowns between teams and how conversations with the right people impact DevOps and security in an interview with Rayna Stamboliyska.

7. 

   16 Sept 2025

   S2 E1: Container Security Nightmares

   CISO Conor Sherman and journalist Joe Fay discuss container security nightmares, examining how teams can protect applications and avoid costly data breaches in this interview episode.

8. 

   28 Jan 2025

   Episode 9: AI Is Going To Solve Everything

   In this episode of What The Hack Is A CISO we travel to the future with Sergej Epp (technology leader and CISO at Sysdig) and Ed Targett, Founder and Editor in Chief at The Stack. We challenge these cyber security experts on how they see leadership evolving as we approach 2030 and investigate how leaders can prepare for multiple possible futures while maintaining effective security operations today. After all, there are no surprises, just lack of foresight. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guests are Sergej Epp (https://whatthehack.show/people/sergej-epp) and Ed Targett (https://whatthehack.show/people/ed-targett). Sergej Epp is the CISO at Sysdig and is a tech-savvy cybersecurity and technology leader, with extensive international tech and financial services industry experience. Trusted advisor to customers and partners. Advocate for collaboration and threat intelligence sharing among public and private sectors. Successful track record in cybersecurity architecture, cyber defense operations / SOC, security risk management, cloud security, DevSecOps, global cyber and digital forensics investigations (DFIR). Ed Targett is the Founder and “Editor-in-Chief” at The Stack, a B2B technology website aimed at CIOs and other C-level technology leaders. Prior to founding The Stack, Ed was the editor at Computer Business Review and has held editorial lead roles in sustainability and business publications. Learn more about our supporters, Sysdig and AWS: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) and AWS (https://aws.amazon.com/) - together, Sysdig and AWS help enterprises strengthen cyber resilience and accelerate secure cloud innovation. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

9. 

   14 Jan 2025

   Episode 8: What The Ho Ho Ho Is A CISO

   Here's what's in store for this episode: In this episode of What The Hack Is A CISO, jointly supported by Sysdig and AWS, Ann-Marie Corvin, Deputy Editor of TechInformed and technology journalist Joe Fay discuss the stories they tracked during the year and what issues IT leaders have to contend with in the next twelve months. Ann-Marie covers how security companies are being targeted by North Korean hackers for roles, while Joe covers how new developments like quantum will affect security planning in the future. Both of them cover the importance of training, skills development and awareness campaigns in 2025. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guests are Joe Fay (https://whatthehack.show/people/joe-fay) and Ann-Marie Corvin (https://whatthehack.show/people/ann-marie-corvin). Joe is a freelance reporter. He has been covering the technology industry for 30 years and has edited publications in London and San Francisco and Ann-Marie is a highly established technology journalist, currently working for TechInformed. Learn more about our supporters, Sysdig and AWS: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) and AWS (https://aws.amazon.com/) - together, Sysdig and AWS help enterprises strengthen cyber resilience and accelerate secure cloud innovation. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

10. 

    23 Dec 2024

    Episode 7: Hacking Through The Snow

    Here's what's in store for this episode: In this episode of What The Hack Is A CISO, jointly supported by Sysdig and AWS, we bring together cybersecurity journalists Kate O’Flaherty, Geoff White and Dan Raywood to discuss their stories of the year, the challenges that security leaders will face in 2025, and what individuals can learn from the media about how to handle potential issues. Kate covers both business and consumer security, Dan dives into enterprise IT security, and Geoff shares his experience looking into the cross-over between cryptocurrency, hackers and organised crime. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guests are Kate O’Flaherty (https://whatthehack.show/people/kate-o-flaherty), Geoff White (https://whatthehack.show/people/geoff-white) and Dan Raywood (https://whatthehack.show/people/dan-raywood). Kate is a cybersecurity and privacy journalist with well over a decade’s experience covering the issues that matter to users, businesses and governments. From billion-dollar cyber heists to global money laundering rings and crypto-gangsters – Geoff has covered it all. As an author, speaker, investigative journalist and podcast creator, his work’s been featured by Penguin, the BBC, Audible, Sky News, The Sunday Times and many more. With more than 20 years experience of B2B journalism, including 12 years covering cybersecurity, Dan brings a wealth of experience and information security knowledge to the table. He has covered everything from the rise of APTs, nation-state hackers, and hacktivists, to data breaches and the increase in government regulation to better protect citizens and hold businesses to account Learn more about our supporters, Sysdig and AWS: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) and AWS (https://aws.amazon.com/) - together, Sysdig and AWS help enterprises strengthen cyber resilience and accelerate secure cloud innovation. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

11. 

    16 Dec 2024

    Episode 6: The Crown Jewels with Jon Staniforth

    Here's what's in store for this episode: In this episode of What The Hack Is A CISO, we speak with the hugely talented cyber security leader Jon Staniforth, whose extensive experience and phenomenal expertise tracks across global organisations. With over 20 years of experience working across multiple sectors, including Logistics, Telecom, Technology, Retail and Financial Services, we hear how businesses need to align appropriate security solutions to meet their risk appetite and how security threats are like taxes - they’re going to be around forever. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guest is Jon Staniforth (https://whatthehack.show/people/jon-staniforth). Jon is a Senior Cyber / Information security and risk executive with a successful track record in global organisations. With over 20 years experience working across multiple sectors, including Logistics, Telecom, Technology, Retail and Financial services, Jon has demonstrable experience addressing the security challenges faced by organisations. Jon's experience in risk management, compliance and behavioural change combined with technical background enables him to align business requirements with appropriate security solutions to meet the business’ risk appetite. Learn more about our supporter, Sysdig: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/). For businesses innovating in the cloud, every second counts. Sysdig strengthens cyber resilience by reducing the attack surface, detecting threats in real time, and accelerating incident response. The Sysdig platform correlates signals across cloud workloads, identities, and services to enable teams to prioritize risks and act decisively. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

12. 

    3 Dec 2024

    Episode 5: Crisis After Crisis with Kayle Giroud

    Here's what's in store for this episode: In episode 5 of What the Hack Is A CISO, we speak with Kayle Giroud, Director of the international  Common Good Initiative at Global Cyber Alliance, a collaborative effort aimed at galvanizing action to strengthen the Internet's resilience. Kayle talks to us about the urgent need for awareness of cybersecurity non-profits and how the cybersecurity industry must shape not only the security of their own organisation but also strengthen society's digital resilience at large to ensure technology remains a force for good. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guest is Kayle Giroud (https://whatthehack.show/people/kayle-giroud). Kayle is Director of the international Common Good Initiative at Global Cyber Alliance, a collaborative effort aimed at galvanizing action to strengthen the Internet's resilience. Kayle has more than 5 years of experience in international cooperation and is passionate about the impact of emerging tech on our societies and fundamental rights, and is a strong advocate for organisations that make a genuine contribution towards the well-being of the world. Learn more about our supporter, Sysdig: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/). For businesses innovating in the cloud, every second counts. Sysdig strengthens cyber resilience by reducing the attack surface, detecting threats in real time, and accelerating incident response. The Sysdig platform correlates signals across cloud workloads, identities, and services to enable teams to prioritize risks and act decisively. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

13. 

    19 Nov 2024

    Episode 4: Threats Are Sexy, Vulnerabilities are Scary with Chris Hodson

    Here's what's in store for this episode: In episode 4 of What the Hack Is A CISO, we speak with the highly accomplished Chris Hodson, founder of Stealth Start up, author and former CISO at Zscaler. Chris brings his knowledge and experience from his nearly 20-year career, discussing first-hand the changing role of IT, where privacy stops and security starts and how CISOs must stay on top of technology. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guest is Chris Hodson (https://whatthehack.show/people/chris-hodson). Chris is a cyber security expert, investor and founder of Stealth Start Up. In his nearly 20-year career, Chris has seen first-hand the changing role of IT, from a response organization to a strategic business unit that drives value and a competitive advantage for the business. As CISO, he is a trusted advisor to executives, board members and other stakeholders, helping them define well-balanced strategies for managing risk and improving business outcomes. Learn more about our supporter, Sysdig: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/). For businesses innovating in the cloud, every second counts. Sysdig strengthens cyber resilience by reducing the attack surface, detecting threats in real time, and accelerating incident response. The Sysdig platform correlates signals across cloud workloads, identities, and services to enable teams to prioritize risks and act decisively. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

14. 

    5 Nov 2024

    Episode 3: You Better Be OK Dealing With Change with Joe Sullivan

    Here's what's in store for this episode: In episode 3 of What the Hack Is A CISO, we speak with the renowned Joe Sullivan, former CISO of Facebook, Uber and Cloudflare. Having worked for the intersection of government, technology, and security since before the Internet went mainstream, Joe talks about how regulation drives better behaviour, the evolution of the role of the CISO and how mastering uncertainty is at the heart of the job. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guest is Joe Sullivan (https://whatthehack.show/people/joe-sullivan). Joe provides security and leadership advice to executives and board members at startups and larger companies across a range of industries, mentors the next generation of security leaders, speak publicly on trends in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, and serves as the CEO of Ukraine Friends, a nonprofit organization providing humanitarian aid to children trying to learn and grow in a war zone. Learn more about our supporter, Sysdig: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/). For businesses innovating in the cloud, every second counts. Sysdig strengthens cyber resilience by reducing the attack surface, detecting threats in real time, and accelerating incident response. The Sysdig platform correlates signals across cloud workloads, identities, and services to enable teams to prioritize risks and act decisively. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

15. 

    22 Oct 2024

    Episode 2: What Budget? with Alexandra Godoi

    Here's what's in store for this episode: In episode 2 of What the Hack Is A CISO, we speak with the brilliant Information Security GRC Lead at Oxfam,  Alexandra Godoi. Alexandra discusses her career trajectory, the role of cybersecurity in the not-for-profit sector and her passion for how technology can be used to protect and promote human rights. As for being a CISO? You better be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guest is Alexandra Godoi (https://whatthehack.show/people/alexandra-godoi). Alexandra is an early-career cybersecurity professional with solid industry experience in the development/humanitarian sector. Her work involves specialist support for vulnerability management, incident management and cybersecurity awareness, as well as building capacity and improving the security posture amongst staff and partners. She is passionate about how technology can be used to protect and promote human rights. Learn more about our supporter, Sysdig: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/). For businesses innovating in the cloud, every second counts. Sysdig strengthens cyber resilience by reducing the attack surface, detecting threats in real time, and accelerating incident response. The Sysdig platform correlates signals across cloud workloads, identities, and services to enable teams to prioritize risks and act decisively. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

16. 

    22 Oct 2024

    Episode 1: Hackers Love Holidays with Greg Crowley

    Here's what's in store for this episode: In episode 1 of What the Hack Is A CISO, we speak with the CISO of eSentire and cyber security authority Greg Crowley. With over 20 years in the Information Technology and Cybersecurity landscape, we look at what lessons he took away from his time as Vice President of Cybersecurity and Network Infrastructure at WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), what it means to be a leader in the cyber world and how to effectively communicate and execute a strategic vision to defend and protect. Also, why there’s never time to let your guard down. Connect with our speakers: What The Hack Is a CISO podcast hosted by Rayna Stamboliyska (https://whatthehack.show/people/rayna-stamboliyska) and this episode's special guest is Greg Crowley (https://whatthehack.show/people/greg-crowley). Greg is an accomplished executive with over 20 years in Information Technology and Cybersecurity with extensive experience in managing enterprise security and mitigating risk for global hybrid networks. Learn more about our supporter, Sysdig: The podcast is proudly supported by Sysdig (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/). For businesses innovating in the cloud, every second counts. Sysdig strengthens cyber resilience by reducing the attack surface, detecting threats in real time, and accelerating incident response. The Sysdig platform correlates signals across cloud workloads, identities, and services to enable teams to prioritize risks and act decisively. Visit the Sysdig CISO hub (https://sysdig.com/ciso-insights/) for the latest insights, strategies, and learnings from security experts for security leaders.

17. 

    14 Oct 2024

    Teaser: Welcome to What The Hack Is A CISO

    What The Hack Is A CISO is a brand new podcast series on what it takes to be a CISO. The series will have episodes speaking with high-profile security leaders to understand what the role is, what it means to them and why the hack they want to do it.

Inside a recent episode

S2 E6: Alert fatigue

Published 25 Nov 2025 · Transcript excerpt

[…] So why isn't there more industry pressure for better alert management standards, tools? You know, I mean, that's not something we're discovering now in 2025. It's been there for the past 10 years or so, right? Yeah, that's really true. And actually, when I was doing some research before we did this podcast, I was looking for some articles, some editorial articles on Alert Fatigue, because I realised that I hadn't actually written about it specifically as a theme, other than, you know, within something else myself. And I found it really difficult. There was nothing really. A lot of vendors have written blogs about it, but they're trying to sell a product in the end. […]

Who has been a guest on What The Hack Is A CISO

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Danny Palmer
• Petra Vukmirovic
• Goher Mohammad
• Kate O’Flaherty
• Flick March

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 44 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

88

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

Questions about What The Hack Is A CISO