The Conference Room with Simon Lader

In this episode of the Conference Room, host Simon Lader welcomes Patrick Guay, a seasoned sales and leadership expert with over 20 years of experience in the technology sector. Patrick shares his journey from leading sales at various Israeli startups, culminating in his current role as Chief Revenue Officer at Stream Security. He discusses the challenges of building a go-to-market strategy for Israeli companies in the U.S. and the importance of hiring the right talent.The importance of understanding U.S. market dynamics and cultural nuances when building a sales team for Israeli companies.The critical need to hire the right talent and the long-term impact of hiring decisions on a startup's success.Patrick emphasizes leading by example and understanding product-market fit before expanding the sales team.Insights into the difficulties faced by companies trying to establish a remote sales team without proper support.The different challenges and approaches when working with CEOs who have technical backgrounds versus those with business-oriented perspectives.The significance of networking and maintaining connections within the Israeli tech community.Three key tips for building a U.S. presence for Israeli companies: be patient, hire the best, and maintain a sense of humor.The evolving landscape of Israeli startups and their increasing focus on business acumen alongside technical expertise.Vision for Stream Security and the importance of preparing for the future while managing current operations.To learn more about Patrick Guay please visit his Linkedin ProfileTo learn more about Stream.Security please visit their websiteYOUR HOST - SIMON LADER  Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.   Get to know more about Simon at:  Website: https://simonlader.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/    The Conference Room is available onSpotifyApple podcastsAmazon MusicIHeartRadio

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Jeremy Vaughan, an entrepreneur, investor, and CEO of Start Left Security. Jeremy shares his journey from graduating from the University of North Florida to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He discusses the importance of taking risks, the challenges of startup life, and the mission behind Start Left Security.00:00:  Simon introduces the podcast and this week's guest, Jeremy Vaughan2:29 Jeremy talks about gaining experience outside of traditional corporate environments and the value of real-world learning.05:25 Anecdotes about learning to drive and the importance of real-life experiences in developing skills.09:20 Discussion on the impact of the Lean Startup methodology and its application in real-world scenarios.12:01 Addressing the chicken-and-egg problem of needing funding to build a product and needing a product to secure funding.15:25 Jeremy shares how Start Left Security was able to bootstrap and build a product with limited resources.18:11 The transition from product development to focusing on sales and go-to-market strategies.21:03 Balancing the demands of a startup with empathy for team members' personal situations.25:06 The need for salespeople and leaders to accelerate the go-to-market strategy and the importance of operational roles like sales engineers and customer 29:04 Balancing the demands of a startup with empathy for team members' personal situations and the impact on the business.39:05 Jeremy discusses the current focus on raising capital, differentiating from competitors, and expanding the company's capabilities.To learn more about Jeremy Vaughan please visit his Linkedin ProfileTo learn more about Start Left Security please visit their websiteYOUR HOST - SIMON LADER    Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.        Get to know more about Simon at:      Website: https://simonlader.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/      The Conference Room is available onSpotifyApple podcasts Amazon MusicIHeartRadio

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Kimberly Crowe, an international inspirational public speaker, TEDx speaker, and authority on "speak to sell." Kimberly is a best-selling author, serial entrepreneur, and the dynamic host of the weekly online show, Speaker's Playhouse. As the founder of Entrepreneurs Rocket Fuel, Kimberly is on a mission to make speaking on stages accessible and enjoyable for entrepreneurs and coaches worldwide. Join us as Kimberly shares her journey from corporate life to becoming a successful entrepreneur and speaker, and learn how you can harness the power of public speaking to grow your business.00:00 Simon introduces the podcast and this week's guest,Kimberly Crowe03:25  The importance of finding joy and fulfillment in your career.06:16  Kimberly's motto, "If it's not fun, it's not worth doing," and how it transformed her approach to business.10:08 The creation and mission of Speaker's Playhouse to connect entrepreneurs with speaking opportunities.13:28 The importance of authenticity and being true to oneself when speaking.16:32 Exposure therapy as a method to conquer the fear of public speaking.17:05 The value of starting with podcasts to build confidence a22:05 The importance of a well-crafted call to action.22:30 Leveraging different types of stages for maximum impact.29:31 Details about the upcoming Podapalooza event for podcast speakers and hosts.30:06 Opportunities for networking, learning, and being interviewed on multiple podcasts in one day.31:06 Information on how to join Speaker's Playhouse and participate in weekly events.To learn more about Kimberly Crowe please visit his Linkedin ProfileTo learn more about Speakers Playhouse please visit their websiteYOUR HOST - SIMON LADER      Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.        Get to know more about Simon at:      Website: https://simonlader.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/      The Conference Room is available onSpotifyApple podcastsAmazon MusicIHeartRadio

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Gianna Whitver, CEO and co-founder of the Cybersecurity Marketing Society. Gianna Whitver shares her journey from working at IBM to founding a thriving community for cybersecurity marketers. She discusses the unique challenges of marketing in the cybersecurity industry, the importance of community building, and the mission-driven nature of cybersecurity work. Gianna also provides insights into the growth of the Cybersecurity Marketing Society and offers tips for success in marketing and community building.00:00 Simon introduces the podcast and this week's guest,Gianna Whitver01:20  Gianna's journey from Syracuse University to IBM and her first foray into cybersecurity.02:59 The challenges and unique aspects of marketing in the cybersecurity industry.04:15 The founding of the Cybersecurity Marketing Society and its growth to over 3,000 members.06:17 The mission-driven nature of cybersecurity and the clear distinction between good and bad actors.10:22 Differences in marketing strategies for cybersecurity compared to other industries.14:13 How to effectively market to elusive cybersecurity professionals.19:14 The importance of brand trust and offering valuable content in marketing.21:24 Gianna's approach to community building and the secret to her success.25:09 Innovative marketing strategies and standout companies in the cybersecurity space.26:29 Details about the upcoming Cyber Marketing Con in Philadelphia.28:23 Gianna's top tips for success in marketing and community building.30:01 Exciting future plans for the Cybersecurity Marketing SocietyTo learn more about Gianna Whitver please visit his Linkedin ProfileTo learn more about Cybersecurity Marketing Society please visit their websiteYOUR HOST - SIMON LADER      Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.    Get to know more about Simon at:    Website: https://simonlader.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/      The Conference Room is available onSpotifyApple podcastsAmazon MusicIHeartRadio

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Uriel Cohen, VP of Product at cybersecurity vendor VMRay. Uriel shares his journey from the Israeli Air Force to becoming a leader in product management. He discusses the intricacies of product management, the challenges of prioritizing product development, and the unique advantages startups have over larger companies in the cybersecurity industry. Uriel also provides insights into VMRay's innovative approach to threat analysis and sandboxing technology.00:00 Simon introduces the podcast and this week's guest, Uriel Cohen.01:01 Uriel shares his career journey from the Israeli Air Force to VP of Product at VMRay.02:44 Explanation of product management and its importance in companies.04:20 Building the right solutions, making the right investments, and preparing the organization for market.08:14 Uriel discusses the transition from product manager to VP of Product and the importance of collaboration.11:00 The challenge of predicting market needs and prioritizing product development.12:26 Uriel's framework for evaluating product opportunities: market attractiveness, financial impact, and ability to win.18:21 Differences in product development between startups and large companies like Checkpoint.25:02 Discussion on VMRay's focus and innovation in threat analysis and sandboxing.28:49 Tips for building a successful product team, including handling resource problems 31:25 The importance of synchronizing product, marketing, and sales teams.34:37 Uriel shares what's next for VMRay and the excitement of developing new products.To learn more about Uriel Cohen please visit his Linkedin ProfileTo learn more about VMRAY please visit their websiteYOUR HOST - SIMON LADER      Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.        Get to know more about Simon at:      Website: https://simonlader.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/      The Conference Room is available onSpotifyApple podcastsAmazon MusicIHeartRadio

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Luigi Lenguito, co-founder and CEO of Before.ai, a pioneering cybersecurity company specializing in predictive security solutions. Luigi shares his fascinating journey from being a Formula 3 racing driver to becoming a leader in the cybersecurity industry. With a rich background that includes an 18-year tenure at Dell and a global executive MBA, Luigi discusses the innovative approach of Before.ai and the company's mission to prevent cyberattacks before they happen. 00:00 Introduction to Luigi Lenguito and his background.01:37 Luigi's early passion for cars and technology.02:56 Transition from racing to a career at Dell.04:17 Founding Before.ai and the inspiration behind it.06:20 The concept of predictive cybersecurity and "pre-crime."08:29 Challenges and strategies in expanding Before.ai from Europe to the U.S.13:12 Differences in market maturity and innovation appetite between Europe and the U.S.19:17 Funding journey and the role of U.S. investors.22:14 Building a fully distributed company and its benefits.24:14 The importance of trust, autonomy, and ownership in distributed teams28:12 Giving employees the choice to work how they want30:22 Maintaining team cohesion in a distributed workforce.31:14 Avoiding fragmented office subcultures and building one unified identity35:10 The value of asynchronous work and scaling collaboration36:11 Luigi's top tips for creating a successful distributed workforce.40:00 The mission and impact of Before.ai in the cybersecurity landscape.To learn more about Luigi Lenguito please visit his Linkedin ProfileTo learn more about BforeAI please visit their websiteYOUR HOST - SIMON LADER      Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.        Get to know more about Simon at:      Website: https://simonlader.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/      The Conference Room is available onSpotifyApple podcastsAmazon MusicIHeartRadio

Join your host Simon Lader Looking back to one of the best advices in Sales, Marketing & Leadership from The Conference Room Podcast  Whitney Alexandra  Discusses the steps to move from being Anonymously to a Business Leader (Ep.136) Rick Olesek  Describes the key things he looks for to determine if an organization is investor ready (Ep.138) Nicole Zeno   Explain how an organization should reverse engineer their marketing activity based on their end goal.(Ep 139) Justin Somaini  Describes what did he anticipate being the main problems that are likely to come moving forward. (Ep.143) Patty Rogers  Explain the tasks should one automate and what should one delegate                                                                               (Ep.38) Daphna Horowitz   Discuss a good decision maker look like. (Ep.132) Brandon Conley  Explain the  key metrics and components should a salesperson have if they want to be successful. (Ep.116) Scott Hartley  Describes the kind of pain points that might suggest an organization's email deliverability is not quite working out. (Ep.88) Mariam Tsaturyan Explain the reasonable budget should be if somebody wants to register a trademark. (Ep.59) SAKET JAIN   Explain why is his why so important.(Ep.140) To learn more about any of my guests, listen to their episode, or click on their names to be taken to their LinkedIn profiles. YOUR HOST - ⁠⁠SIMON LADER⁠⁠ Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm ⁠⁠Salisi Human Capital⁠⁠, and lead generation consultancy⁠⁠ Flow and Scale⁠⁠. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: ⁠⁠https://simonlader.com⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/simonlader⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/⁠⁠ The Conference Room is available on ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠ ⁠⁠iHeartRadio⁠⁠ And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Lisa Novak, founder of LMNHR, a fractional HR leadership and advisory firm. With over 20 years of experience in HR and operations, Lisa shares her journey from a military family background to becoming a key player in HR for high-growth tech companies. She dives into the evolving role of HR, the challenges it faces, and the critical impact of company culture on organizational success.      00:00 Introduction to Lisa Novak LMN&HR  01:56 Lisa's unexpected path into HR leadership  05:11 Breakdown of HR responsibilities and their multifaceted nature  08:01 Discussion on the evolving perception of HR in organizations  12:20 The impact of COVID-19 on HR practices and workforce dynamics  15:26 Parallels between HR and marketing during economic shifts  18:16 The role of HR in shaping and maintaining company culture  26:13 The transition from a, informal setup to a more structured and professional   27:37 How organizations shift from casual to inclusive activities as they expand.  28:56 The need for structure and proper management as startups grow.  31:22 Can a company retain its original vibe while scaling up  37:08 Supporting employees while ensuring the company's long-term success.  41:49 The importance of HR in navigating employee relations and coaching.  43:29 Focus on strengths, understand the business, and find where you fit best.      To learn more about Lisa Novak please visit his Linkedin Profile  To learn more about LMNHR please visit their website            YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio               

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Marc Holden, an expert in customer relationship management, direct sales, sales leadership, and market development. Marc shares his journey from being a commercial fisherman in Alaska to becoming the VP of Sales for North America at Cyber SixGill. He discusses the valuable lessons learned from his diverse experiences, the importance of mentorship, and the differences between working in large and small companies.      00:00 Simon introduces the podcast and this week's guest, Marc Holden  01:51 Marc recounts his unique path to sales, starting as a commercial fisherman in Alaska.  04:04 Insights fishing experience influenced his sales career, including risk-taking   07:03 Transition from fishing to sales and the importance of storytelling   08:59 How Marc incorporates mentorship in his leadership   12:21 Differences between working in large corporations and startups  18:07 The qualities that drive success in both large and small organizations.  19:02 Marc shares a success story of a transition from a large company to a startup,   21:02 The importance of believing in potential and providing opportunities for growth.  21:50 Overcoming career hurdles and seizing opportunities to prove oneself.  22:29 Transforming challenges into opportunities and sparking creativity in new hires.  23:23 Building a successful sales territory by understanding your market   24:49 Leveraging industry knowledge and networking to enhance sales strategies.  27:13 The power of storytelling in sales and its impact on building relationships.  30:59 Traits Marc looks for when hiring sales team members, including passion  33:01 The innovative approaches of Cyber Cisco in the threat intelligence space.  36:00 Utilizing AI and machine learning to revolutionize threat intelligence data analysis.  37:29 knowing your product, understanding the market, and leveraging technology.          To learn more about Marc Holden please visit his Linkedin Profile  To learn more about Cybersixgill please visit their website                  YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio                                   

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with  Jennifer VanAntwerp, founder of Sober in Cyber. With 20 years of experience in marketing and leadership, Jennifer VanAntwerp shares her journey from her accidental start in the automotive industry to creating a nonprofit that offers sobriety-focused resources and networking opportunities in cybersecurity. 00:00 Simon welcomes Jennifer VanAntwerp and introduces her impressive background. 01:01 Jennifer discusses her 20 years of experience in marketing and leadership. 02:34 Jennifer shares her personal journey Sober in Cyber. 04:18 Jennifer explains the gap Sober in Cyber fills in the professional world. 06:10 Discussion on the challenges faced by sober at professional networking  07:50 Tips for conference organizers on making their events more inclusive  14:00 Simon shares his own experiences with dietary restrictions and planning. 18:59 Jennifer talks about how choosing non-alcoholic options can influence others. 21:05 Jennifer provides advice for navigating events without alcohol-free options. 26:23 Introduction to the nonprofit idea and initial reactions 27:09 Realizing the broader potential for alcohol-free events 27:46 Overcoming challenges in starting a nonprofit 28:07 Discovering the concept of fiscal sponsorship 29:13 Rapid growth and acceptance of the nonprofit 30:12 Benefits of fiscal sponsorship and early successes 31:05 Utilizing marketing skills to build the nonprofit's brand 32:02 Expanding from self-funding to corporate sponsorships 33:13 The importance of corporate partnerships 34:33 Top three tips for a more sober lifestyle To learn more about Jennifer VanAntwerp please visit his Linkedin Profile To learn more about Sober in Cyber please visit their website YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER         Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.            Get to know more about Simon at:         Website: https://simonlader.com/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/         The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Daniel Shechter, Co-founder and CEO of Miggo Security, to share his journey from serving in the Israeli Defense Forces to becoming a cybersecurity entrepreneur. Daniel delves into his experiences in the IDF's intelligence units, his time at McKinsey, and the inception of Miggo Security, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way.      00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest, Daniel Shechter  01:28 Transition from the IDF to McKinsey and eventually co-founding Migo Security.  03:08 Collaboration with co-founder Tzahi and their project at Unit 8200.  05:19 Daniel's entrepreneurial journey and passion for building innovative solutions.  07:32 Miggo Security to protect organizations from application layer attacks.  11:13 Turning the concept into reality and gaining initial seed funding.  13:22 Building the initial team and partnership with YL Ventures.  16:35 The primary challenges of entrepreneurship and the value of customer   19:11 The significance of building trust and resilience in the cybersecurity industry.  21:48 Reflections on the unexpected ease of certain aspects of the journey  23:16 Daniel discusses the initial challenges of managing marketing   26:03 Daniel explains the challenge of staying focused on solving the core problems 29:24 The importance of building trusted relationships with early adopters  31:02 Daniel explores why Israel has a high success rate in creating startups  34:10 Daniel shares his top three tips for aspiring tech entrepreneurs  37:39 Daniel talks about Miggo's mission to stop application attacks and breaches  39:23 Daniel discusses the importance of partnerships and invites listeners  40:34 Daniel Shechter emphasizes the importance of thinking about inclusivity         To learn more about Daniel Shechter please visit his Linkedin Profile  To learn more about Miggo Security please visit their website                YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio                 

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Scott Wright, a global leader in security awareness and gamification. Scott Wright shares his journey from software development to cybersecurity, and how he pioneered innovative security awareness initiatives like the Honey Stick Project. Learn how gamification can transform security training and discover practical tips to reduce human vulnerabilities in your organization.      00:00   Introduction to the episode and this week's guest, Scott Wright.  00:52   Scott's career journey and his transition into cybersecurity awareness.  02:30   Scott discusses his initial roles in software development and management.  04:20   The importance of addressing human vulnerabilities in cybersecurity.  06:10   Scott explains his research on human behavior using smartphones.  10:00   Introduction to gamification and how it enhances security training.  12:50   How gamification is used to engage employees in security protocols.  20:40   Insights from the Honey Stick Project's collaboration with Symantec.  24:10   Effective gamification techniques for improving security awareness  26:07   Importance of addressing risks beyond compliance.  27:42   The unique challenges of managing human risk.  28:37   The need for better foundational training.  29:02   Addressing organizational risk through improved security programs.  29:25   The balance of people, processes, and technology for CISOs.  30:02   Strategic views and practical examples from industry professionals.  35:02   Importance of training for non-technical staff managing critical systems.  39:39   Setting up human risk management programs and addressing variable data.  41:16   Importance of foundational training and skepticism of single data sources.        To learn more about Scott Wright please visit his Linkedin Profile  To learn more about Click Armor  please visit their website              YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio   

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Justin Somaini, a veteran in the cybersecurity industry and a partner at Wild Ventures. Justin  Somaini shares his journey from military bases in Germany to becoming a career CSO and advisor to early-stage cyber vendors. He delves into the intricacies of cybersecurity, the evolving landscape, and the challenges that remain constant over the decades. Join us as we explore his experiences, insights, and the fascinating world of cybersecurity.      03:46 - Defining the role and responsibilities of a CSO.  05:18 - Importance of understanding material problems in cybersecurity.  07:18 - Nature of cybersecurity and the constant arms race between attackers and defenders.  10:10 - Challenges in vulnerability management and the impact of procedural issues on security.  16:16 - The significance of social engineering and the importance of employee education in preventing breaches.  21:20 - The lag in security implementation for new technologies and the role of startups in filling these gaps.  22:53 - Security challenges and the emergence of new security vendors   23:22 - Justin discusses the complexities of portfolio construction and the high-risk nature of VC investments.  25:06 - The unpredictability of market trends and the importance of solving material problems.  26:44 - The role of founders in navigating challenges and pivoting when necessary.  28:11 - Emerging issues in cybersecurity, including the need to secure new technologies   34:01 - The complexities of using open-source code and continuous development.  37:03 - Practical tips for individuals to add value to their security teams and the importance of automation.  42:18 - Justin Somaini shares his excitement about the future of the VC ecosystem         To learn more about Justin Somaini please visit his Linkedin Profile   To learn more about YL Ventures please visit their website                 YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio   

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with David Primor, the founder and CEO of the cybersecurity vendor Xynomic. David shares his incredible journey from serving in the IDF's 8200 unit to earning a Ph.D. at CERN, where he contributed to the discovery of the Higgs boson. They discuss his transition into the corporate world, his experiences in Israel's military intelligence, and his current role in helping SMBs and mid-market companies protect themselves against cyber threats.         02:16  – David Primor's background in the IDF and at CERN.  03:11  – David compares finding the Higgs boson to solving cybersecurity challenges.  06:22  – David's work at CERN, including working with the Hadron Collider.  07:30  – David's time with Israel's National Cyber Directorate and the challenges faced.  09:58  – Protecting SMBs and mid-market companies from cyber threats.  12:22  – Journey of finding product market fit and growing the company.  13:52  – Adapting to market changes and the need for agility in cybersecurity.  18:38  – The Steps David took to identify and validate the problems Xynomic solves.  23:59  – The dual challenges of serving end customers and service providers.  24:28  –  David's approach to continuously amassing data and knowledge.  25:06  – Understanding the need for agility and the right team.  26:10  – Developing the MVP and early team dynamics..  27:52  – Building a global team across Israel, the UK, and the US.  28:29  – Tips for aspiring entrepreneurs: believing in yourself, finding the right partners, and assembling a strong team.  30:02  – How to learn more about Sino and connect with David.              To learn more about David Primor please visit his Linkedin Profile   To learn more about Cynomi please visit their website               YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio       

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Alon Arvatz, former co-founder of Insights, a cybersecurity vendor acquired by Rapid7 for $350 million. Alon shares his journey from childhood inspiration through his father's tech career to becoming a successful entrepreneur and investor in Israeli cybersecurity startups. He discusses the factors driving Israel's dominance in the cybersecurity industry, the challenges of starting and scaling a tech company, and the story behind the acquisition of Insights.      02:30 - Alon's initial experiences with tech through his father's work.  03:50 - Transition from nonprofit to for-profit ventures in cybersecurity.  07:44 - Alon explains Israel's defense-driven tech advancements.  11:36 - Factors contributing to Israel's tech success and entrepreneurial culture.  13:20 - The need for diversification beyond cybersecurity in Israel's tech sector.  17:36 - Alon's journey with Insights, from clueless beginnings to rapid growth.  19:00 - Challenges and strategies in achieving product-market fit.  21:42 - Insights' go-to-market strategy and organizational alignment.  21:43 - The acquisition of Insights by Rapid7 and how it came about.  26:58 - Where to find Eleanor's book on Amazon.  27:19 - Three key tips for tech entrepreneurs.  27:48 - The importance of understanding technology for tech entrepreneurs.  29:16 - Taking small steps towards big goals in tech entrepreneurship.  30:03 - Introduction to Point Five and its mission to manage lab cost efficiency for engineers.      To learn more about Alon Arvatz please visit his Linkedin Profile   To learn more about PointFive please visit their website               YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio 

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Saket Jain, the founder and CEO of Impact Wealth Builders, an alternative real estate investment firm. Saket shares his incredible journey from growing up in India, to building a successful real estate firm in the U.S., to finding his true purpose through philanthropy. The episode covers his profound experiences, the importance of finding one's "why," and the unique challenges and strengths of the immigrant experience in business.        02:22 – Saket's origin story: Growing up in India and his early ventures into real estate.  03:54 – Saket's decision to sell everything, leave his job, and move to a monastery in India.  05:14 – The genesis of combining investing and philanthropy.  07:24 – Discussing the importance of understanding one's "why."  11:21 – Saket's journey of quitting smoking and the influence of meditation.  17:20 – The decision to focus on education and health as their cause.  20:12 – Saket's wife's role in his journey and the significance of a supportive partner.  25:37 – The sacrifices made by the first generation and their impact on the second and third generations.  27:06 – Challenging circumstances create strong individuals and how this cycle influences wealth and drive.  28:09 – The migration mindset and its importance in personal and financial growth.  31:12 – Knowing your lifestyle preferences to make money effectively.  32:28 – Saket's personal experiences with change and adaptation.  33:10 – Protecting money from inflation, taxes, and legal threats.  34:49 – Making money work for you and the importance of growing your financial resources.  35:12 – Passing on wealth and values to future generations.  36:18 – Understanding your "why" and allowing it to evolve.            To learn more about Saket Jain please visit his Linkedin Profile   To learn more about Impact Wealth Builders, please visit their website       Get to know more about Saket Jain:  https://www.migrate2wealth.com/  https://impactwealthbuilders.com/  https://www.facebook.com/TheSaketJain  https://www.facebook.com/Migrate2Wealth       YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio     

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Nicole Zeno, an award-winning marketing expert, podcaster, and entrepreneur. Nicole shares her journey from directing music videos to founding Clever Cow Media, along with the insights she has gained over her 15-year career. The discussion delves into the critical aspects of marketing strategy, the importance of understanding your end goals, and practical advice for small businesses to transition from a reactive to a proactive state.     02:15 – Nicole's inspiring journey from video production to marketing.  06:20 – Insight into the unique challenges faced by different types of businesses.  11:10 – The importance of aligning marketing strategies with business goals.  15:00 – The transition from reactive to proactive marketing.  18:20 – How to effectively break down and manage KPIs  27:02 – Importance of defining success metrics before starting a podcast.  29:19 – Nicole shares her three key tips for successfully marketing a business.  29:45 – Emphasis on strategic planning in marketing.  31:15 – The significance of data in measuring marketing success.  32:30 – The value of having hobbies outside of business to improve skill sets and avoid burnout.  34:06 – The importance of breaking down big tasks into manageable steps.  35:26 – Her current projects and future plans for Clever Cow Media.    To learn more about Nicole Zeno please visit his Linkedin Profile   To learn more about Clever Cow Media, please visit their website               YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio   

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Rick Olesek, A cybersecurity expert and current head of portfolio go-to-market at Gula Tech Adventures. Rick shares his journey from a network security analyst at the NSA to his current role, offering listeners a deep dive into his strategies for building successful go-to-market strategies for early-stage cyber vendors. This episode is packed with practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses and secure venture capital.    01:07 - Rick's career overview and current role.  03:31 - Transition to Tenable and key contributions.  06:27 - Moving from Tenable to other ventures  08:04 - Rick's role at Gula Tech Adventures   09:28 - Initial deal flow and evaluation process.  11:51 - Importance of Having a clear go-to-market strategy.  14:13 - Red flags in assessing a company's investment readiness.  16:37 - The realistic portrayal of VC engagement on shows like Shark Tank.  18:27 - Importance of targeted value propositions in fundraising.  20:22 - Knowing your audience and the importance of tailored pitches.  23:02 - Determining the level of engagement with portfolio companies.  25:13 - The necessity of company evolution and strategic pivots.  26:38 - Importance of Simplifying Messaging.  28:04 - Challenges and Reassessments  29:30 - Importance of Under-promising and Over-delivering  31:30 - Learning from Investment Outcomes  34:03 - Essential Tips for Entrepreneurs  36:15 - Handling NDAs with VCs  38:20 - Transparency and Feedback from VCs  40:00 - Matching VCs to Business Needs  41:22 - Advantages of Complementary Portfolios           To learn more about Rick Olesek please visit his Linkedin Profile   To learn more about Gula Tech, please visit their website You can also access amazing startup content on the Gulatech Adventures YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GulaTechAdventures         YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio 

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Tabatha Thorell, a dynamic entrepreneur, real estate investor, bestselling author, and life coach from rural Nebraska. Tabatha shares her inspiring journey from being a fitness coach to becoming a multifaceted businesswoman. She dives into her passion for helping others achieve financial freedom and the importance of teaching wealth principles to families for lasting legacy. Tabatha also discusses her strategies for real estate investing, creative financing, and balancing entrepreneurship with family life.    01:45 - 03:04 - Tabatha's early influences and motivation for helping others.  03:05 - 00:04 - Tabatha's career trajectory from counseling to entrepreneurship.  05:17 - 06:02 - Leadership and personal development.  11:09 - 12:44 - The mission to help families flourish financially and relationally.  12:45 - 13:29 - Advice on starting a real estate portfolio.  13:30 - 14:17 - Key tips for choosing properties.   14:18 - 16:13 - Creative financing strategies   18:10 - 20:02 - Importance of cash flow and potential for scaling real estate 25:02 - 25:24 - Tabatha discusses the excitement of family experiences   26:31 - 26:54 - Sharing the family's approach to teaching financial principles   28:08 - 28:30 - Importance of family and relationships over material success.  28:30 - 29:11 - Top three tips for her younger self  32:41 - 33:06 - The significance of joy and playfulness in business and family life  33:31 - 33:47 - Make business and investment fun, fostering a positive learning environment.  35:20 - 35:45 - Entrepreneurial families and fostering collective growth.  35:45 - 36:38 - Role of a tax strategist in optimizing financial success for entrepreneurs.       To learn more about Tabatha Thorell please visit his Linkedin Profile                YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/            The Conference Room is available on    Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio 

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Whitney Alexandra, a renowned performance coach, to delve into the challenges and solutions for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Whitney shares her insights on overcoming public speaking fears, reigniting passion in business, avoiding burnout, and positioning oneself as a thought leader.    01:09 - 02:01 – Whitney's Background  03:03 - 04:34 – Key Problems Faced by Leaders  05:25 - 07:25 – Customizing Strategies for Entrepreneurs  07:26 - 08:50 – Discovering Your Zone of Genius  10:18 - 12:51 – Delegating and Outsourcing  13:33 - 14:50 – Experimenting with Time Management  17:12 - 18:52 – Getting Heard Above the Noise  18:53 - 21:22 – Fabulous Fridays  24:45 - 25:13 – The Power of Gratitude  25:13 - 26:34 – Confidence in Business   26:34 - 28:49 – Subconscious Recordings for Confidence  28:49 - 31:15 – The Reptilian Brain  31:15 - 32:10 – Passion and Thought Leadership      To learn more about Whitney Alexandra please visit his Linkedin Profile        To learn more about her Coaching, please visit their website            YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER            Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.                Get to know more about Simon at:            Website: https://simonlader.com/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/        The Conference Room is available on      Spotify  Apple podcasts  Amazon Music  IHeartRadio         

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Colby DeRodeff, cybersecurity leader, investor, and entrepreneur. Colby shares his journey from the dot-com era to co-founding Abstract Security and discusses the challenges and lessons learned in the cybersecurity industry.     00:30 - 02:11 - Colby DeRodeff Background  02:11 - 00:05 - Early Days at Excite  05:48 - 10:47 - Category Creation and Market Positioning  10:47 - 18:11 - Fundraising in Emerging Markets  18:11 - 25:46 - Lessons Learned and Customer Success  26:19 - 26:53 - Adding Value in Stages  26:53 - 27:51 - Freemium Strategies in Product Led Growth  31:16 - 35:26 - Challenges in Next Gen SIM Solutions  41:39 - 44:26 - Three Tips for Success in Cybersecurity Space   To learn more about Colby DeRodeff please visit his Linkedin Profile      To learn more about Abstract Security, please visit their website         YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER         Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.            Get to know more about Simon at:         Website: https://simonlader.com/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/         The Conference Room is available on      Spotify  Apple podcasts  Amazon Music  IHeartRadio           

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Pascal Weinberger, co-founder and CEO of Bardeen.ai, discusses the journey of founding a startup in the AI space and emphasizes the importance of trust, innovation, and critical thinking in building a successful team. Key topics include hiring strategies, prioritizing speed and experimentation, and applying first principles in AI deployment.    KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE   01:06 - 02:51 - Pascal's Journey into AI  03:43 - 05:56 - Automating Repetitive Manual Workflows   06:26 - 14:06 - Impact of AI on the Modern Workforce  14:06 - 21:14 - Building a Startup Team in a Cutting-Edge Field  21:14 - 21:40 - Building Trust Through Connections  21:40 - 22:27 - Critical Role of Early Hires   22:27 - 23:23 - Balancing Experience and Innovation  23:23 - 24:18 - Cultural Alignment and Vision   24:18 - 25:36 - Prioritizing Speed and Experimentation  25:36 - 26:45 - Three Tips for Success  26:45 - 28:30 - Applying First Principles  28:30 - 30:01 - Critical Thinking in Innovation    Pascal Weinberger is the Co-Founder and CEO of Bardeen.ai, a leading AI company focusing on  automating repetitive and manual workflows across web apps. Previously, Pascal built and scaled other ventures leveraging AI and machine learning for  industrial applications and the AI team at Telefonica Alpha, Europe's first moonshot factory.  Pascal is also an active angel investor in AI and deep-tech companies globally.     To learn more about Pascal Weinberger please visit his Linkedin Profile      To learn more about Bardeen.ai, please visit their website           YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER         Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.            Get to know more about Simon at:         Website: https://simonlader.com/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/         The Conference Room is available on      Spotify  Apple podcasts  Amazon Music  IHeartRadio           

 In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with George Csahiouni, President of Swoop Business Solutions, to delve into his extensive experience in the fintech industry and his journey from a high-level executive to starting his own successful ventures.    KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE    01:46 - 06:04 - Starting Out in Fintech   06:30 - 11:34 - Challenges and Innovations in Fintech  16:02 - 19:08 - Transitioning from a VP role to a CEO  19:08 - 21:43 - Exiting Trans Merritt   21:43 - 24:26 - Founding Swoop Business Solutions   25:20- 25:47 - Business in a Box  25:47 - 26:17 - Access to Capital  26:17 - 26:41- Expanded Portfolio  26:41 - 27:03 - One-Stop Shop  27:03 - 27:26 -Tips for Business Success    George Csahiouni (Sa-yoo-ni) is the President of Swoop Business Solutions, he has over 23 years of experience selling to the fintech industry, with a specialized focus in payment processing. As a sales expert and chief revenue lead, he has been instrumental in driving sales and revenue growth for resellers, ISOs and various businesses. Based in Chicago, George's core skill set combines deep business acumen with the expertise to coach and build highly effective leadership teams that consistently exceed quota.  To learn more about George Csahiouni please visit his Linkedin Profile      To learn more about leadership, please visit their website           YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER         Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.            Get to know more about Simon at:         Website: https://simonlader.com/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/         The Conference Room is available on      Spotify  Apple podcasts  Amazon Music  IHeartRadio         

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Daphna Horowitz, International Coaching Federation certified Master Certified Coach and trusted advisor, to delve into the journey from being a top performer to becoming an extraordinary leader. Daphna shares insights from her own career trajectory, highlighting the crucial shift in mindset and skills required for leadership roles. From her experiences at Alexander Forbes to her exploration of coaching and academia, Daphna offers valuable lessons for aspiring leaders. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE 00:46 - 00:06 - Daphna's Career Journey: 06:29 - 10:09 - Key Pain Points in Leadership: 10:09 - 16:15 - The Role of Communication in Leadership: 16:15 - 18:32 - Effective Decision-Making in Leadership. 18:33 - 19:50 - The Importance of Decision-Making 20:17 - 22:40 - Addressing High-Stakes Decisions: 23:10 - 25:21 - Self-Awareness and Delegation 26:22 - 00:29 - Cultivating a Culture of Feedback 30:04 - 00:34 - Shifts in Leadership and Business Impact: THIS WEEK'S GUEST DAPHNA HOROWITZ Daphna Horowitz is a sought-after CEO Coach, International Coaching Federation certified Master Certified Coach, and trusted advisor, working with clients around the globe, to create extraordinary businesses and build future leaders. While she was a Director at Alexander Forbes, one of South Africa's leading actuary firms, she learned the importance of developing a leadership mindset that is necessary to take you from being a top-performer to an extraordinary leader. She is the author of two best-selling books, Courage to Lead (2014), & Weekly Habits for Extraordinary Leaders (2020), and is the host of her own five star rated podcast, Leadership Live, and a frequent contributor to various publications including Forbes. To learn more about Daphna Horowitz please visit his Linkedin Profile To learn more about leadership, please visit their website YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/ The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, host Simon Lader sits down with Peter Prizio, CEO of SnapAttack, a cybersecurity vendor, to explore the journey of building a startup in the cybersecurity industry and the importance of proactive security measures.   KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE   Peter Prizio Background (01:22 - 02:17)  Peter shares his journey to becoming CEO of SnapAttack, highlighting his diverse background in electrical engineering, consulting, and cybersecurity.    SnapAttack Development Story (02:17 - 03:39):   Discussion on the unique story of SnapAttack  development, originating from a product within Booz Allen Hamilton's Dark Labs and later spun out as a standalone product.   Challenges Faced by SnapAttack (03:39 - 05:07):   Peter elaborates on the challenges and opportunities SnapAttack faced as a startup, including securing venture capital funding and establishing a brand in the market.   Differentiation Strategy (13:23 - 15:37):   The conversation explores SnapAttack strategy for differentiation in a competitive cybersecurity market, focusing on proactive security and efficiency.   Peter's Product Management Background (22:17 - 29:27):  Peter discusses how his product management background prepared him for the CEO role, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with a capable team and fostering open communication.    Establishing a Company (30:19 - 36:16):   Peter discusses the importance of having a mentor network and provides top three tips for establishing a company.   AI Innovation and Threat Detection (36:16 - 42:18):   Peter talks about recent developments at SnapAttack, including leveraging AI innovation for threat detection and prevention.   SnapAttack's Journey and Challenges (42:14 - 03:53:53):   Peter shares SnapAttack's origin story and the challenges faced in establishing product-market fit and brand credibility.    Messaging Strategies and Market Differentiation (03:55:21 - 04:03:18):   Discussion on evolving messaging strategies, proactive security approach, and product differentiation in the cybersecurity market .  CEO Role and Leadership Challenges (04:03:18 - 04:14:31):  Peter reflects on his transition from VP of Product to CEO, managing diverse functions, and provides insights into effective leadership.    THIS WEEK'S GUEST - PETER PRIZIO  Peter Prizio, CEO of SnapAttack, pioneers enterprise security solutions. With a focus on consolidating intel, emulation, engineering, hunting, and purple teaming into an intuitive, no-code platform, SnapAttack revolutionizes security operations. Peter's background spans defense engineering and public services, with a dedication to fostering collaboration for proactive security. Holding an MBA from George Washington University and a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Connecticut, he drives innovation to address cybersecurity challenges.  To learn more about Peter Prizio please visit his Linkedin Profile  To learn more about  SnapAttack, please visit their website       YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER  Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and founder of the Cybersecurity Business Growth Think Tank. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams and is one of the leading voices in the cybersecurity and search industries.    Get to know more about Simon at:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/    The Conference Room is available on   Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio 

Join your host Simon Lader as he looks back on some of the highlights of 2023: Tom Reilly discusses what makes a great CEO with Colin Powell (Ep. 107) Matthew Andriani explains how and why he transformed his services company into a software vendor (Ep. 126) Kev Eley highlights the differences between building a business in the US and in Europe (Ep. 122) Ian L. Paterson discusses how a CEO can successfully manage a team of people whose jobs (s)he has never done before Melissa Mitchell reveals why your online followers won't necessarily turn into paying customers (Ep. 124) Carsten Willems describes how he turned a solution to a problem into a scaling technology vendor (Ep. 118) Austin Armstrong explains how he exploded his social media presence in 2022 (Ep. 113) Laura Bell Main discusses how startups can successfully hire their first team members (Ep. 106) Brooke Young explains the difference between PR and Marketing (Ep. 105) Robert Freeman talking through his strategy to building a region from scratch (Ep. 110) Chen Burshan discusses why there are so many successful tech startups coming out of Israel (Ep. 129) Baber Amin explains the role of a Chief Product Officer and the function of a Product Team (Ep. 121) and finally Bob Ackerman explores what makes a great VC firm (Ep. 101) To learn more about any of my guests, listen to their episode, or click on their names to be taken to their LinkedIn profiles. YOUR HOST - ⁠SIMON LADER⁠ Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm ⁠Salisi Human Capital⁠, and lead generation consultancy⁠ Flow and Scale⁠. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: ⁠https://simonlader.com⁠ Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/simonlader⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/⁠ The Conference Room is available on ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Amazon Music⁠ ⁠iHeartRadio⁠ And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, we welcome Skyhawk Security's CEO, Chen Burshan, as we explore the intricate dynamics of product market fit, transparency and relationship-building in the early stages of a company's life. Trust is not just a cornerstone for startups in gaining support and navigating challenges, but also a critical factor in the realm of cloud security. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE Trust as the Foundation of Startup Success: Essential for earning investor and customer trust. Vital for internal team trust. Supports vision support, network building, and overcoming challenges. Observability in Cloud Security: Key to managing evolving cyber threats. Focus on real-time detection and response. Addresses customer challenges with misconfigurations and vulnerabilities. Highlights the necessity of proactive security measures. Skyhawk's Role in Cloud Security: Specializes in cloud-native threat detection and response. Utilizes generative AI for prevention. Aims to detect and respond to threats early. Trust in Response Automation: Trust as a central theme in automated threat response. Enables swift, confident threat handling. Fosters reliance on advanced technologies for secure cloud environments. Future Trends in Cloud Security: Growing demand for cloud-native threat detection and response. Increasing complexity of cyber threats. Providing essential tools for cloud infrastructure protection. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - Chen Burshan Chen Burshan is the CEO of cybersecurity vendor Skyhawk Security. He began his career in technical positions at companies such as IBM, then spent five years with Cisco then transitioned into product roles. He founded companies such as Saasafe, vSapphire and had leadership positions with Dome9 and Checkpoint, before being appointed CEO of Skyhawk. He is a graduate of the Open University of Israel and holds 24 US patents. To learn more about Chen, please visit his LinkedIn profile To learn more about Skyhawk, please visit their website. YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/ The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, we welcome Marc Jarrett, a master of virtual networking and the innovator behind the successful WhatsApp-based global networking initiative, Virtual Power Networking. Marc discusses his strategies for connecting people across diverse industries, shares insights on building meaningful business relationships, and reveals his vision for the future of virtual networking and philanthropy. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE The Power of WhatsApp Groups (00:00:20) Mark details the efficiency of using WhatsApp for networking. Explanation of how he manages the process within international and local groups. Approach to Effective Communication (00:14:20) Importance of crafting engaging and concise messages on WhatsApp. Strategies for keeping group members engaged and connected. Strategies for Successful Networking (00:30:38) Tips for being a successful networker on WhatsApp Business Philosophy and Vision (00:32:24) Networking is seen as a tool for both business opportunities and creating friendships. Jarrett's ultimate goal is to facilitate global connectivity and eventually focus on philanthropy. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - MARC JARRETT Marc Jarrett is a distinguished figure in the realm of digital networking, renowned for his innovative approach to connecting professionals across the globe via WhatsApp. With an extensive background in facilitating international commerce and fostering connections, Marc has harnessed the power of social platforms to break down geographical barriers and create dynamic, interactive communities. Marc's signature venture, Virtual Power Networking, exemplifies his pioneering use of WhatsApp to create specialized groups that span numerous industries and interests. These groups serve as hubs for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking to exchange ideas, opportunities, and partnerships. Connect with Mark, visit his LinkedIn profile Learn more about Virtual Power Networking here YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/ The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, we welcome Lauren Goldstein, a seasoned business consultant and trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies including Apple, Nike, and AT&T and to a variety of fast growing early stage companies. Join us as we dive into the challenges faced by business leaders, and hear Lauren's insights into effective team building, the difference between growth and scaling, and how CEOs can evolve from being a "Chief Everything Officer" to a visionary leader. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE Challenges in Leadership (00:08:42): Lauren discusses business owners' and CEOs' reluctance to delegate and the accompanying stress. Introduces "Chief Everything Officer" to describe overwhelmed CEOs. Reactivity vs. Proactivity (00:09:21): Lauren urges businesses to shift from a reactive to a proactive mode, emphasizing the value of proactive team members over mere "worker bees." Identity & Vision:(00.10.07): Lauren explaines that a CEO's main role is vision-setting, while pointing out that 80% of business owners have not considered their identity outside of business. Team & Systems (00:31:54): Lauren insists on the significance of having the right team and systems for the business to operate effectively without the owner. Effective Delegation & Scaling (00:37:15): Highlights the concept of "Who Not How" and distinguishes between growth and scaling. Advocates for the importance of delegation for business scalability. THIS WEEK'S GUEST- LAUREN GOLDSTEIN Lauren Goldstein is a distinguished business consultant focused on addressing the operational and leadership challenges that CEOs and business owners commonly face. Goldstein strongly believes in the role of the CEO as a 'North Star,' directing the company's long-term strategy while delegating daily tasks to a competent team. Her holistic approach encompasses various aspects of business management, from organizational structure to process automation. She introduces concepts like "Who Not How," encouraging CEOs to focus on task delegation rather than micromanagement. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LAUREN GOLDSTEIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenegoldstein/https://www.facebook.com/GoldenKeyPartnership/ https://www.instagram.com/itslaurengoldstein Lauren's Scorecard can be downloaded for free here Listen to her podcast here YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/ The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, we welcome Matthew Andriani, CEO of Mazebolt Technologies, as we delve deep into the world of cybersecurity, particularly focusing on the evolution and mitigation of DDoS attacks. Matthew talks us through the inception, growth, and effectiveness of Radar, Mazebolt's pioneering DDoS defense solution, the flaws of traditional DDoS mitigation practices and how Radar aims to revolutionize the sector. Sit back and listen to a captivating discussion filled with real-world case studies, industry critiques, and a look into the future of DDoS defenses. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE [00:02] Guest Introduction & Cybersecurity Background Matthew Andriani's background is explored, including his experience in various roles within cybersecurity, such as technical, professional services, and security research positions. [05:37] Evolution of DDoS Attacks Discussion on the historical context and evolution of DDoS attacks, their complexity, and why they pose a significant threat in today's digital landscape. [12:21] Introduction of Radar Matthew introduces Radar, a pioneering solution that modernizes DDoS defenses. He also delves into the system's unique features and capabilities. [18:45] Vendor Relationships Importance of vendor partnerships in enhancing Radar's efficiency is discussed, and Matthew sheds light on the criteria for selecting technology partners. [26:59] Industry Critique Matthew critiques the traditional DDoS mitigation practices, emphasizing their inadequacies and how Radar addresses these shortcomings. [33:08] Radar's Impact Exploration of Radar's effectiveness, featuring real-world case studies that highlight its practical utility and positive impact on DDoS defense strategies. [40:17] Product Development Journey Matthew walks us through the ideation, development, and evolution phases of Radar, focusing on the technical challenges and the solutions implemented. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - MATTHEW ANDRIANI Matthew Andriani is an esteemed expert and innovator in cybersecurity, serving as the founder and CEO of Mazebolt, a leading cybersecurity vendor. With an extensive career that spans roles in technical operations, professional services, and cutting-edge security research, he has accrued valuable expertise from his tenure at industry giants such as Check Point Software, Corrigon, and Radware. Holding two U.S. Patents for non-disruptive DDoS testing methods, Matthew is consistently at the vanguard of cybersecurity technological advancements. His leadership at Mazebolt enables him to continually push the envelope in cybersecurity solutions. To learn more about Matthew, please visit his LinkedIn profile, and to learn more about Mazebolt, please visit their Website and their YouTube channel. YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/ The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In the early hours of Saturday 7th October, Israel was savagely attacked by the terrorist group Hamas. Innocent civilians were murdered in cold blood, men women and children were kidnapped, their bodies desecrated and paraded through the streets. The Conference Room stands firmly by the people and the State of Israel. To show solidarity with our Israeli brothers and sisters, this message will be the entire episode of this week's podcast. We will not tolerate hate, we will not tolerate antisemitism, we will not tolerate apologists for terrorism.

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, we welcome Melissa Mitchell as we discuss her journey from a flight attendant to becoming the CEO of Abundant Life Studio, the nuances of organic marketing, and the challenges and advantages it presents in the ever-evolving digital landscape. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE Course Creation and Realizations 00:07:48 – Transition from offering small courses to in-demand, higher-priced coaching programs. 00:08:44 – Expansion of her agency specializing in organic marketing. Personal Growth and Recognition 00:08:59 – Development of Melissa's personal brand and revenue from platforms like Facebook and YouTube. Reflection and The Learning Process 00:10:14 – Melissa's reflection on her past juxtaposed against her present achievements in marketing. 00:11:28 – Emphasis on continual learning, adaptability, and staying updated in the field. Organic vs. Paid Marketing and Challenges 00:20:38 – Distinction between organic and paid marketing, highlighting trust-building through organic strategies. 00:23:37 – The challenges businesses faced during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for a digital presence. Impact of Going Viral and Shadow Banning 00:14:34 – The double-edged sword of going viral on platforms like TikTok and the subsequent challenges of shadow banning. 00:16:43 – How a video's virality can skew the audience and subsequently affect organic reach. 00:20:48 – Advantages of organic marketing over paid marketing and the importance of connection with the audience. Importance of Synergy in Marketing Strategies 00:23:29 – The urgency businesses felt during the pandemic when they lacked a digital presence. 00:23:55 – Emphasizing the long-term benefits of organic marketing and the risks of solely relying on immediate solutions. 00:24:25 – The crucial interplay between organic and paid marketing methods, suggesting they work best in tandem. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - MELISSA MITCHELL Melissa Mitchell is the enterprising founder and CEO of Abundant Life Studio, a leading Organic Social Media Marketing agency based in Australia. Her journey to the forefront of digital marketing is as captivating as it is inspiring. Melissa started her career soaring through international skies as a flight attendant and gracing the world of film and photography as a makeup artist. The turn in her career trajectory came unexpectedly when she discovered an innate talent for marketing. Fast forward seven years, and Melissa has emerged as a self-taught marketing expert, with a penchant for understanding intricate algorithms. Today, she not only leads a successful agency that specializes in organic marketing but also boasts a personal brand that resonates with her authentic approach. Her dedication to continued learning and adaptability is evident, making Melissa Mitchell a name to reckon with in the world of social media marketing. You can find more about Melissa on her Facebook page and Abundant Life Studios Facebook page and website. YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, we welcome Sugey Piedra as we discuss holistic financial planning for service-based business owners and the importance of understanding taxes for long-term wealth creation. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 00:04:23: Sugey shares the mission and offerings of her tax planning advisory firm, Prominence Business & Wealth Management. 00:13:17: Discussion on the concept of holistic financial services and how they differ from traditional financial planning. 00:24:42: Deep dive into the critical tax planning insights that Sugey disseminates on her podcast "Tax Talk with HeyHey." 00:34:29: Sugey recounts her experience being featured on podcasts like Sell Without Selling and Business Spotlight USA. 00:45:51: Conversation turns to how high-earning, service-based business owners can achieve financial freedom through effective tax planning. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - SUGEY PIEDRA In this week's episode of The Conference Room, we welcome Sugey Piedra, an influential figure in the realm of financial services. She is the co-founder of Prominence Business & Wealth Management, a firm that distinguishes itself by offering holistic financial services aimed at high-earning, service-based business owners. Sugey takes an integrated approach to financial planning, covering not just asset management but also effective tax planning strategies. In addition to her role at Prominence, she is the host and producer of the podcast "Tax Talk with HeyHey," where she provides invaluable insights into the nuances of business taxation and long-term wealth creation. Her expertise has also made her a sought-after guest on other business podcasts, such as Sell Without Selling and Business Spotlight USA, further solidifying her credibility and influence in the industry. To find out more about Sugey, please visit: www.prominencebusiness.com https://www.instagram.com/prominence.services/ https://www.facebook.com/ProminenceBMgmt https://www.linkedin.com/in/sugey-piedra-ea-39aba911a/ https://open.spotify.com/show/5zefMXdpLTX6mTzd14o7Xm?si=1cdef92df6c24e49&nd=1 To register for Sugey's upcoming Webinar, please visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83390511882?pwd=VXRxcWFDT0pSUGlhOVFZckZUQlpydz09 Get to know more about Simon at:   Website: https://simonlader.com   Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader      The Conference Room is available on  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3dd0obQSM8cYRV0HCxiuF0     Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conference-room-with-simon-lader/id1517671682     Amazon Music:  https://www.amazon.com/Conference-Room-Simon-Lader/dp/B0BM351RT7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3KV0SJVZWFNNX&keywords=the+conference+room+with+simon+lader+podcast&qid=1683558717&sprefix=%2Caps%2C133&sr=8-1     iHeartRadio  https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-conference-room-with-s-102401058/     And everywhere else you listen to podcasts! 

In this week's episode of "The Conference Room," we welcome LogRhythm's VP EMEA, Kev Eley, an industry veteran with nearly thirty years of experience in growing technology businesses across EMEA. Join us as we dive into a conversation about the challenges and intricacies of launching and growing technology businesses in Europe, including the impact of Brexit and the importance of understanding regional differences. KEY TAKEWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE 00:10:38: Kev emphasizes the constant innovation in the tech industry and the unique position cybersecurity professionals hold as the "good guys" in the battle against cyber threats. 00:11:20: He draws an analogy between the cybersecurity community and superheroes, highlighting the inspiring aspect of working to protect organizations and society from cyber threats. 00:12:17: Kev delves into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, describing it as an ongoing arms race driven by political motivations, financial incentives for cybercriminals, and increasing digital reliance. 00:14:23: The conversation shifts to Kev's experience at TrapX and the challenges he faced while growing a non-European business in Europe. He explores the regional disparities and cultural differences within Europe that organizations must navigate. 00:15:40: Kev discusses the common approach of American organizations launching in Europe, often starting with the UK as a beachhead and expanding to other European regions. He acknowledges the complexity of managing regional disparities. 00:22:46: The impact of Brexit on businesses entering Europe is discussed. Kev highlights the advantages of the UK as a launchpad due to its language, cultural affinity, and mature market for cybersecurity. 00:29:15: Kev emphasizes the importance of hiring local talent when expanding into European regions. Understanding regional differences and the need for a global-fit product are critical for success. 00:34:00: The complexity of managing teams across different European countries is explored. While coaching principles remain consistent, understanding regional nuances in business conduct is essential. 00:38:03: Kev and Simon stress the importance of appreciating the subtleties and regional differences when launching a business in Europe. Hiring the right talent and understanding cultural nuances are keys to success. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - KEV ELEY Kev Eley is a seasoned industry professional with nearly three decades of experience in driving the growth of technology businesses across EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa). His impressive career includes notable positions at industry giants such as IBM and Microsoft, where he honed his expertise. Kev has also made significant contributions during his tenure at innovative cybersecurity companies like TrapX and Egress Software. Currently, he holds the prestigious role of Vice President for EMEA at LogRhythm, a global cybersecurity powerhouse. YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Salisi: www.salisi.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode, we welcome Baber Amin, a seasoned expert in product development and achieving that elusive product/market fit. Join us as we explore the world of innovation through Baber's experienced lens. We delve into the intricacies of product development and the strategic aspects of product planning and the transformative potential of data-driven decisions. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, this episode offers valuable insights into creating products that truly resonate with customers. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE The Crucial Role of Product Development [11:35] Baber underscores the pivotal role of well-thought-out product development in the tech industry. Clear vision, robust planning, and agile development processes are key. Navigating the Path to Product/Market Fit [14:50] Baber defines product/market fit as the delicate balance where a product aligns perfectly with customer needs. He emphasizes the significance of customer feedback and market research in achieving this alignment. Iterative Approach to Product/Market Fit [18:15] Baber advocates for an iterative approach to product development. He shares success stories of products refined through multiple iterations based on user feedback. Data-Driven Decision Making [21:55] Baber stresses the importance of data-driven decision-making. He discusses how data analytics can provide insights into user behavior and preferences. Scaling with Product/Market Fit [27:10] Baber delves into the challenges and opportunities of scaling post product/market fit. He provides strategic insights on scaling while maintaining product excellence. THIS WEEK'S GUEST: BABER AMIN Baber Amin is a distinguished technologist and product development expert with a career spanning over two decades. With a wealth of experience in the technology industry, Baber has been instrumental in the development of cutting-edge cybersecurity products. He is a firm believer in the power of meticulous product development, underlining the importance of a clear vision, strategic planning, and agile execution. Baber's expertise extends to achieving the elusive product/market fit, a subject he passionately discussed in this episode. He describes it as the harmonious intersection where a product aligns seamlessly with the desires of its target audience. Baber's insights on iterative development, data-driven decision-making, and scaling strategies offer invaluable guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs and product developers. For more information or to connect with Baber, please visit his LinkedIn profile To lear more about Veridium please visit their website YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people scale their lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode of The Conference Room we welcome Sean Blenkhorn, the Vice President of Worldwide Sales Engineering at Axonius, a leading cybersecurity vendor. With over two decades of experience in diverse organizations like Symantec, Canadian Bank CIBC, and eSentire, Sean is one of the authorities of Sales Engineering in the cybersecurity sector. Join us as we dive into the intriguing world of "pre-sales", and explore its critical role in bridging the gap between technology and sales. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE Defining Sales Engineering: Sean starts our conversation by providing insights into the role of a sales engineer, emphasizing their responsibility in helping customers understand the technical aspects of solutions and products. Tune in at [00:01:12] to get a clear understanding. Technical Expertise vs. Sales Skills: At [00:03:25], the discussion delves into the distinct qualities required in a sales engineer, balancing technical expertise with effective communication and relationship-building skills. Supporting Account Executives: Learn how sales engineers work closely with account executives to tailor solutions to customer needs. Sean highlights this collaborative nature at [00:05:42]. Trust and Relationships: Discover how a deeper level of trust often develops between customers and sales engineers, leading to more meaningful interactions and understanding. Join us at [00:07:58] for this insightful discussion. Traits of a Good Sales Engineer: Sean outlines the qualities that make a successful sales engineer, including passion for the industry, agility in working with diverse teams, effective communication, and a hunger for learning. Hear more at [00:10:20]. Transitioning to Leadership: The challenges and rewards of moving from a sales engineer to a leadership position are explored at [00:12:45], underlining the shift from individual contributions to team development and culture building. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - SEAN BLENKHORN Sean Blenkhorn, Vice President of Worldwide Sales Engineering at Axonius, boasts over 20 years of industry experience across diverse sectors. With roles in renowned organizations such as Symantec, Canadian Bank CIBC, and eSentire, Sean has acquired a deep understanding of both cybersecurity and effective sales strategies. His proficiency as an advisor to early-stage vendors underscores his credibility in guiding technological solutions to success. Since 2021, Sean has steered Axonius' global sales engineering team, showcasing his exceptional leadership and commitment to bridging the gap between technology and sales for optimal customer solutions. Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of this industry veteran. You can learn more about Sean by visiting his LinkedIn profile You can learn about Axonius by visiting their website YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation coaching company Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode of The Conference Room, we're thrilled to welcome Julz Vitality, a seasoned podcast host, summit host, speaker, and the CEO of Positive Impact. Join us as we delve into a thought-provoking discussion on enhancing online presence, social media strategies, and achieving business success with practical insights from Julz's expertise. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEKS EPISODE Lack of Clarity in Online Presence: Julz addresses the challenge many entrepreneurs face in spreading themselves thin across various passions online. She highlights the importance of being known for a specific niche to establish a strong online reputation. Focus and Consistency: Successful branding involves maintaining a consistent message across all platforms. Julz emphasizes the significance of clear and focused content, avoiding conflicting messages that can confuse potential clients. Value-Driven Lead Magnets: When building an email list, simplicity and value are key. Shorter lead magnets like cheat sheets and checklists tend to be more effective than lengthy ebooks. They provide actionable insights, ensuring users find immediate value. Building Relationships: Julz emphasizes the value of fostering connections with influencers and likeminded individuals in your industry. Collaborations and partnerships can significantly boost your reach and credibility. Overcoming Sales Apprehension: Selling should not be feared; it's about offering solutions that can genuinely help others. Entrepreneurial success hinges on not only providing value but also inviting potential clients to take logical next steps. Balancing Personal and Professional Content: While some personal content can add authenticity, Julz advises primarily using social media for business-related posts. Present your professional side consistently across platforms. THIS WEEK' S GUEST - JULZ VITALTY Julz Vitality, a seasoned podcast host and social media visibility expert, is recognized for her profound impact on entrepreneurs' online presence. As the CEO of Positive Impact, she champions the power of strategic social media usage for achieving work-life balance and sustainable business growth. Julz's signature podcast, Positive Impact TV, boasts over 100,000 YouTube views, while her social media channels boast a following of over 50,000 individuals. Drawing from her extensive experience in coaching and speaking, Julz guides entrepreneurs to optimize their digital footprints and create valuable connections in the dynamic world of online business. All of Julz's details can be found here: YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In today's episode, we focus on turning a problem into a technical product company, featuring a true industry luminary, Carsten Willems. As the Co-founder and CEO of threat analysis and detection vendor VMRay, Carsten has traversed a remarkable journey from his early hacking curiosity to pioneering VMRay into a cybersecurity powerhouse. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE: The Symbiosis of Tech and Business: Carsten delves into the harmonious blend of technical expertise and business proficiency. Discover how VMRay struck the perfect balance to deliver cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions while ensuring a commercially viable approach. Strategic Vision and Traction: Gain insights into how VMRay's strategic focus on core objectives propelled their growth. Carsten discusses how staying true to their vision, even in a rapidly evolving field, paved the way for VMRay's success. Data as a Compass: Carsten talks about the significance of data-driven decision-making. Explore how VMRay leverages data analytics not only for enhancing their products but also for driving fundamental business choices. Navigating Challenges: Learn about the challenges that VMRay encountered during its ascent, from funding hurdles to market competition. Carsten shares how calculated risk-taking and a resilient team spirit helped them overcome these obstacles. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - CARSTEN WILLEMS Dr. Carsten Willems is the co-founder and CEO of cybersecurity vendor VMRay. He is a doctorate in IT security from the University of Bochum in Germany where he did his PHD and in 2007 founded his own cybersecurity consulting firm. In 2013 he co-founded VMRay and has overseen the company's growth to being one of the foremost threat analysis and detection platform vendors in the industry. Connect with Carsten on LinkedIn To find out more about VMRay, visit their website YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2023 he has helped businesses escape the feast and famine of inconsistent revenue. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Escape the Feast and Famine: https://www.facebook.com/groups/scalesharemonetize Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

Embark on a journey into the realm of tech entrepreneurship with Ian L. Paterson, a serial visionary in the technology landscape. From pioneering ventures in events to his pivotal role at Terapeak, later acquired by eBay, Ian's trajectory embodies innovation and tenacity. Explore his path as he founded and guided Exapic, a transformative data analytics platform vendor, and delve into his latest feat with Pluralock, an AI authentication disruptor. Uncover strategic insights and witness his exceptional leadership as he assembles a distinguished board of directors. Gain unique insights into the dynamic world of tech entrepreneurship through the experiences of this accomplished leader. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE Embrace Growth Challenges: Whether through organic expansion, large funding rounds, or rapid acquisitions, growth is demanding. Prepare ahead and uphold leadership values for a smooth transition. Lead with Vision: Articulate a clear North Star and compelling mission to guide your team. At Plurilock, the mission of safeguarding clients' data echoes their self-interest in secure interactions with various organizations. Strategic Hiring: In early days, tap into your network to find crucial team members. As you scale, build momentum in the company and prioritize hiring experienced individuals to sustain growth. CEO's Multifaceted Role: Unlike other C-suite roles, CEOs may not have experienced every function. Successful CEOs are effective generalists, fostering a deep understanding of various aspects and hiring experts to complement their skills. Problem Solving over Product Selling: Focus on addressing customer problems rather than merely selling your product. Tailor solutions, which could include professional services or bundled products, for deeper, enduring customer relationships. THIS WEEK'S GUEST: Ian L Paterson Ian L. Paterson, the CEO of Plurilock, is a seasoned technology entrepreneur. Beginning his dynamic career in the event sector, he later held pivotal roles at Terapeak, an influential data analytics company, and guided Exapik, a groundbreaking data analytics platform, through a successful acquisition. In 2017, he founded Plurilock, a disruptive AI authentication force. Despite the challenges of the COVID era, he masterminded Plurilock's triumphant public offering in 2020, achieving an impressive 100x growth to $64 million in revenue by 2022. To connect with Ian, find him on Linkedin To learn more about Plurilock, visit their website YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people escape the Feast and Famine of inconsistent earnings. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Simon's Headhunting firm: www.salisi.com Stop the Revenue Feast and Famine: https://www.facebook.com/groups/scalesharemonetize Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

How does a sales leader drive consistent growth and navigate through the challenges of the ever-changing tech industry, including mergers and acquisitions? Join us as Brendan Conley , Chief Revenue Officer of AppOmni, shares his invaluable insights gained from a glittering 25+ year career into sales strategies, adapting to market dynamics, and successfully navigating the complexities of mergers and acquisitions in the tech world. Get ready to learn from the best and take your sales career to new heights. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE Understand the unique traits of successful startup individuals and their ability to thrive in challenging environments without extensive support. Identify your ideal customer profiles and allocate resources strategically to maximize impact. Manage sales pipelines effectively, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of closing deals, and remain patient and persistent. Embrace visionary leadership and strategic acquisitions to build a strong platform in the market. Prioritize culture fit, likability, and back channel references when hiring, while demonstrating passion for the industry and a service mindset. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - BRANDON CONLEY Introducing Brandon Conley, a dynamic sales leader with an incredible career spanning over 25 years, driving growth in early stage and multinational technology businesses. Notably, he spent seven years with Aventail, which was later acquired by SonicWall, followed by five years there, until he moved on to Zenprise, acquired by Citrix, where he led the Mobility sales teams across the Americas. Brendan then made significant contributions to Netskope and Redlock, both subsequently acquired by Palo Alto Networks, where he successfully ran their global Cloud Security sales team, phenomenally scaling annual sales from $2M to $100M. As the Chief Revenue Officer of AppOmni since 2020, Brandon continues to lead with vision and passion, steering the company at the forefront of SaaS Security Management software providers. With an unwavering commitment to driving innovation and a proven history of empowering businesses,he remains an influential figure in the cybersecurity industry, inspiring growth and success at every turn. Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn, and learn more about AppOmni here. YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

Join us for an electrifying episode of The Conference Room featuring the brilliant Taylor Fischer, a seasoned sales page copywriter and strategist. With real-life success stories and invaluable insights, she reveals the secrets behind crafting high-performing sales copy that drives remarkable results. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Taylor's expertise and discover how to unleash the true potential of your marketing efforts. Tune in now and get ready to elevate your sales game to new heights! KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE Engage with Your Audience: Talk to your target customers to understand their pain points, desires, and experiences with your product or service. Be Genuine and Empathetic: Avoid aggressive tactics and focus on building a sincere connection with your audience. Highlight Benefits and Transformations: Emphasize the specific benefits and positive changes your offering can bring to their lives. Provide Social Proof: Include testimonials and success stories to build trust and credibility. Create Genuine Urgency: If appropriate, use urgency to encourage action, but make sure it's genuine and transparent. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Meet Taylor Fischer, the mastermind behind Taylor Fischer Consulting, a trailblazing sales page copywriter, and strategist. Taylor has dedicated her career to empowering businesses and entrepreneurs with the art of persuasive communication. With her unparalleled expertise, she guides her clients on crafting compelling sales pages that resonate with their target audience and convert visitors into loyal customers. Taylor's passion for effective communication and marketing took root during her formative years at Thomas Edison State University, where she earned her Bachelor's in Communications. Armed with a deep understanding of human psychology and persuasive writing, Taylor embarked on a mission to revolutionize the way businesses engage with their prospects through sales copy. Over the past five years, Taylor has left an indelible mark on the industry, assisting dozens of companies and entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses to new heights. She possesses an innate ability to connect with her clients, diving deep into their businesses to unearth their unique selling points, pain points, and aspirations. Armed with these invaluable insights, Taylor masterfully crafts sales pages that not only speak directly to the target audience but also inspire them to take decisive action. Taylor's results-driven strategies have propelled her clients to unparalleled success, boasting remarkable conversion rates and unprecedented growth. Her proven techniques for high-performing sales copy have earned her the reputation of being the go-to expert in the field, making her a highly sought-after consultant. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TAYLOR Connect with her on Facebook Visit her website YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode, we welcome Jeff Fleischer, the Global Head of Sales at Team Cymru, as he unveils the secrets of curiosity-driven success and exceptional leadership in the world of cybersecurity. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE Embrace a CEO Mindset: Take Ownership of Success As a sales leader, think like a CEO and take full responsibility for your role. Proactively identify areas for improvement that align with the company's overall objectives. Show initiative in optimizing revenue and customer retention to drive the organization's success. Align with Financial Goals: Drive Sustainable Growth Understanding the company's financial strategy is vital for a sales leader. Whether it's focusing on cash flow, EBITDA, or other metrics, align your sales approach to contribute to the company's long-term growth and financial well-being. Foster Open Communication: Collaborate for Collective Achievement Break down communication barriers and actively engage with other departments to gain insights into their perspectives and strategies. By promoting open communication, you can discover new opportunities, overcome challenges, and find solutions that benefit the entire organization. Demonstrate Genuine Curiosity and Networking: Build Strong Relationships As a successful sales leader, showcase your authentic passion for the industry and the products you offer. Cultivate curiosity and actively network to establish valuable connections beyond immediate sales goals. Strong relationships can lead to innovative ideas, potential partnerships, and growth opportunities. Focus on the Greater Good: Contribute to Overall Company Success Shift your focus from individual achievements to the greater good of the company. Consider how your actions contribute to the organization's overall success and well-being. Prioritizing collective growth fosters a positive and motivated environment that drives success for everyone involved. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Jeff Fleischer is the Global Head of Sales at cybersecurity vendor Team Cymru. With a remarkable career spanning back to the mid-90s, Jeff has held senior positions with renowned companies like McAfee, DataMaxx, Wave Systems, PhishMe, and Reversinglabs before taking the reins at Team Cymru. Beyond his impressive sales and leadership journey, Jeff also serves as an advisor to startup vendors, leveraging his expertise to guide and support emerging businesses. Moreover, Jeff's altruistic spirit shines through his volunteer work with the Sunshine Kids Foundation. Join us as we delve into the extraordinary career and contributions of Jeff Fleischer in the cybersecurity industry. LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreylfleischer/ Team Cymru: https://www.team-cymru.com/ YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio ...and everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this podcast episode, dive into the world of digital marketing with Austin Armstrong, a renowned social media expert, CEO of SocialityPro, creator of Syllaby, and host of the popular TikTok podcast BusinessTok. Discover the secrets behind his extraordinary success as he shares his journey from being a lifelong digital marketer to becoming the CEO of two thriving ventures. Join us as Austin reveals his groundbreaking strategies for organic SEO and Vertical Video marketing, which have propelled businesses to new heights. Learn how his agency, Socialty Pro, has transformed brands by unlocking the full potential of social media marketing. And get ready to be amazed by Austin's latest innovation, Syllaby, a game-changing marketing tool that empowers business owners to create a comprehensive social media content strategy in a matter of minutes. Prepare to be inspired as Austin showcases his remarkable TikTok prowess, having posted over 2500 videos that not only tripled his own business's revenue but also skyrocketed his clients' success. With millions of followers across various social media platforms, Austin has become a true force in the digital landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and actionable tips from Austin Armstrong, a trailblazer in the world of digital marketing. Tune in to this episode and unlock the secrets to driving your business's online growth like never before. KEY INSIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE A step by step strategy to significant increase your online presence and followers in the next nine months. Adopt a conversation-style format, combining entertainment with useful information to engage viewers. Conduct tests and experiments with different delivery styles and content formats to identify effective strategies. Incorporate subtle psychological triggers and elicit emotional responses to increase engagement and comments. Repost your most viral video multiple times, without any changes, to maintain consistent performance. Address challenges in social media marketing by generating content ideas, improving on-camera presence, mastering editing, and posting on multiple platforms. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Austin Armstrong is a lifelong digital marketer, public speaker, host of the TikTok podcast BusinessTok, CEO of Socialty Pro, an organic SEO & Vertical Video marketing agency, and CEO of Syllaby, a brand new marketing tool that helps business owners create a social media content strategy in minutes. Austin has posted over 2500 videos on TikTok, tripling his own business's revenue and thousands more across his clients' accounts, and has leveraged his success on TikTok to gain millions of followers across every social media platform. You can follow Austin on Facebook, YouTube and TikTok, and listen to his TikTok marketing podcast here. and check out his incredible content AI platform Syllaby here: YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: Twitter LinkedIn The Conference Room is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio and everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

Welcome to The Conference Room with Simon Lader. Its an intermission this week, but we'll be back next week with an incredible episode... Listen to the trailer to hear more!

In this week's episode we explore the exceptional journey of marketing visionary Nathan Burke, Chief Marketing Officer of Axonius and discover how his unrivaled expertise is transforming the cybersecurity landscape. Join us as we delve into his remarkable contributions, shaping the future of digital security. Key Takeaways From This Episode The importance of differentiation in marketing and emphasizes the need to focus on non-commodity markets. The significance of storytelling and emotional ties in marketing campaigns, using examples of human-centric approaches in cybersecurity. The challenges of marketing products in ill-defined markets and strategies such as defining the problem, quantifying the value, and creating a compelling case. The importance of having a great product before developing the marketing story and engaging in demand generation activities. Start with early conversations to validate the approach, building thought leadership content, and adapting the narrative based on audience feedback to ensure effective marketing communication. THIS WEEK'S GUEST - NATHAN BURKE Nathan Burke is the Chief Marketing Officer behind Axonius' remarkable ascent in the cybersecurity industry. With his strategic prowess, Nathan has propelled this high-growth security vendor to new heights, leading their global marketing efforts. Drawing from his extensive experience in scaling technology companies like Hexadite (acquired by Microsoft), Intralinks, and Cloudlock, Nathan has become a sought-after leader in international marketing. His expertise has been instrumental in driving growth and maximizing visibility for these renowned organizations. A distinguished graduate of Northeastern University, Nathan recently made headlines for securing Axonius's sponsorship of Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles. This remarkable achievement further exemplifies his ability to forge strategic partnerships and capture the attention of the world. YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple Podcasts: Amazon Music: iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode we welcome cybersecurity sales leader Robert Freeman as we talk about sales, revenue growth and leadership in a hypergrowth cybersecurity startup. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE Effective leadership involves uniting and motivating individuals towards a shared goal, understanding their motivations, and fostering good communication and positive culture. Leaders in startup environments need to be resourceful, adaptable, and able to wear multiple hats to navigate challenges and accommodate customer requests. Hiring individuals with startup experience is crucial, as they bring valuable skills and independence to thrive in a less structured environment. Identifying gaps and taking initiative to develop ideas or programs are key traits in startup leaders, who must constantly innovate and seize opportunities. The interview process for hiring salespeople is challenging, requiring a balance of assessing qualities like energy, enthusiasm, resilience, and adaptability to succeed in a demanding sales career. Robert Freeman Senior VP of Worldwide Sales at SafeBreach, is a highly experienced and results-oriented IT sales management professional. With over 20 years of expertise in managing high-growth environments, Robert has made significant contributions to renowned global vendors like Cisco, Imperva, and FireEye, as well as startups including Distil Networks and his current role at SafeBreach. Having graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Robert is responsible for scaling SafeBreach globally, leveraging his extensive sales and leadership career. His profound knowledge in cybersecurity and commitment to innovative solutions make him a valuable asset in the industry. YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio and everywhere else you listen to podcasts! #RobertFreeman #CybersecuritySalesManagement #SafeBreach #Cybersecurity #ResultsOriented #GlobalExpansion #SalesLeadership #HighGrowthEnvironments #UniversityofMassachusetts #TechnologyExpertise #Startups #EmergingTechnologies #ScalingOperations #InnovativeSolutions #CybersecurityIndustry

Join us in this insightful episode as we welcome Anshul Kaushik, VP Sales of cybersecurity vendor Axio and a distinguished software sales leader, to delve into his strategies for driving sales, effective management, and exceptional leadership in hypergrowth companies. Discover the key elements that differentiate successful sales leaders from the rest, explore the invaluable lessons sports management can teach about leadership, and gain insights into avoiding common pitfalls that hinder sales leaders. Key Takeaways: Sales Leadership Insights: Uncover the reasons behind the failure of most salespeople as sales leaders and discover the essential elements that contribute to successful sales leadership. The Three Key Elements: Gain a deep understanding of the crucial components that make up effective sales leadership and how they can be applied to drive growth. Leadership Lessons from Sports Management: Learn valuable leadership lessons from the world of sports management and understand their relevance in the business realm. Avoiding Failure in Sales Leadership: Explore the common reasons why sales leaders often fail and gain practical tips to ensure success within your own leadership team. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Anshul Kaushik, VP Sales Americas at cybersecurity vendor Axio, brings over 15 years of experience in serving customers across industries such as Telco, Finance, and Oil and Gas. With an extensive background in technology and a track record working with global leaders like HP, IBM, Avaya, and Symantec, as well as hypergrowth vendors like Thycotic and Riscosity, Anshul shares his wealth of knowledge and expertise in this compelling discussion. Connect with Anshul on LinkedIn Find out more about Axio on their website. YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio nd everywhere else you listen to podcasts! #SalesLeadership #HypergrowthStrategies #ManagementTips #LeadershipLessons #SalesSuccess #BusinessGrowth #TechnologySales #CybersecurityIndustry #SalesManagement #LeadershipSkills #BusinessInsights #SalesTips #TeamManagement #SalesLeadershipSuccess #ProfessionalDevelopment

This week we welcome back friend of the podcast, Dr. Letitia Wright, as she shares her story and winning strategies that will skyrocket your brand by using the power of television. Key Takeaways from this episode How content creators can make money from their own TV channel Setting up your own digital TV channel is easier than you think Key mistakes to avoid Why TV can be a much better option than YouTube or TikTok THIS WEEK'S GUEST Dr. Letitia Wright is TV Producer, Crowdfunding specialist and Change Advocate. She is the Executive Producer and host of her nationally syndicated television show Wright Place Television, which she launched in 2000, and is now in its 23rd season. You can reach Dr. Wright on LinkedIn: YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this episode we welcome serial investor, CEO and board member Tom Reilly who shares his insight into business growth, leadership and the role of a CEO. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE What is the role of a CEO? The Three Essential Ingredients to Scaling a Business How to lead leaders The Story of a Ten Figure Exit THIS WEEK'S GUEST Tom Reilly has a thirty year career forming, leading, scaling and advising high-growth enterprise software and cybersecurity vendors. After an early career with IBM and running sales in the 90s for Lotus and BroadQuest, he became CEO of Trigeo, which was sold to IBM in 2004, and then became President and CEO of ArcSight, which he scaled globally, took through an IPO and exited to HP for over $1.5Bn and then CEO of Cloudera which he IPO'd with a $3Bn valuation and a $5.2Bn merger with HortonWorks. He has served on the boards of companies such as ELoqua, Jive Software, Trusona, Incorta, Datastax and Anomali, and served as the Chair of the Economic Development and Advisory Committee for the City of Sausalito. Tom is proud to support the work of Cybermindz.org, for more information about their incredible work in mental health within the cybersecurity community, please visit https://cybermindz.org/ YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music iHeartRadio And everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

In this week's episode we welcome Laura Bell Main, CEO of application security vendor SafeStack to discuss her experience of being a company founder, pivoting from services to software and building her initial team. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE Pivoting from services to software - the why and the how How to find your key initial hires How to hire when face to face interviewing isn't an option How to recognize hiring mistakes and damage limitation What driving stick can teach you about growing a business TODAY'S GUEST Laura Bell Main is the CEO of cybersecurity vendor SafeStack. Born and raised in the UK, she moved to New Zealand in 2011 and specializes in securing some of the world's fastest-growing organizations, having brought her application security vendor Safestack to clients in over 65 countries. She has over twenty years of experience in software development and information security. and it is her mission and passion to bring security into organizations of every shape and size. To find out more about SafeStack, visit www.safestack.io To connect with Laura, find her on LinkedIn YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio and everywhere else you listen to podcasts!

This week we welcome international PR, publicity and branding consultant Brooke Young as she shares her story and winning strategies that will skyrocket your brand through the power of PR. Key takeaways from this episode PR - what it is and why you need it Good PR - how its done - and how not to spend a fortune on it Bad PR - yes, it really exsits and what to avoid The most powerful weapon in your arsenal... (hint, it's storytelling!) And much more! THIS WEEK'S GUEST Brooke Young is an international publicist, PR guru and branding consultant. She works with clients across the globe, and helps them create, develop, and promote powerful messages through heart-centered story-telling. She has formerly worked On-Air with FOX Sports, completed in the Miss America Organization, and volunteers as a Communication Liason for the first Prenatal Care Agency in West Africa. Brooke frequently works with children as a Professional Public Speaker and Children's Book Author, where she educates on Therapy Dogs and Volunteering. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100038225919096 Brooke's Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/468279070891549 Brooke Young is proud to support the work of Hindi's Libraries. To find out more, please visit https://www.hindislibraries.org/ YOUR HOST Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and podcast growth consultancy Viva Podcasts. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people make money from podcasting. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Make Money from Podcasting: https://www.vivapodcasts.com/podcastpowerups Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader The Conference Room is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio and everywhere else you listen to podcasts!