In this episode, we sit down with cybersecurity leader David Luchi to explore his journey from IT educator in Brazil to leading enterprise security programs in Australia. David shares actionable insights on developing soft skills, fostering a culture of safe experimentation, and the critical role of mentorship in shaping the future of cyber. A must-listen for current and aspiring leaders in tech.

👩‍💼 Guest Biography – David Luchi

David Luchi, is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with a passion for embedding security into the fabric of technology. With 13 years of experience in security engineering and leadership, his expertise spans multi-cloud environments, Kubernetes, and implementing state-of-the-art Zero Trust architecture. Beyond his corporate role, David is a pillar in the cybersecurity community, frequently speaking at national events and co-organising multiple Melbourne meetups. He is a firm believer in empowering the community, sharing his insights on his blog, DavidLuchi.com, and is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of security professionals.

🔗 Links Mentioned Throughout the Podcast

• 🌐 Quigly Website - https://www.quigly.com.au/
• 🌐 David Luchi's Website - https://www.davidluchi.com/
• 🌐 CISSP Certification Website - https://www.isc2.org/Certifications/CISSP
• 👤 Mark Williams – Host LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwilliamsmelbourne/
• 👤 David Luchi – Guest LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidluchi/

⏱️ Timestamps & Topics:

• 00:08 – Welcome Message
• 00:47 - Intro: Meet David Luchi
• 02:06 - Racing Max Verstappen in SIM racing
• 04:30 - Explaining cybersecurity to a 90-year-old
• 06:07 – Explaining cybersecurity to a 9-year-old
• 07:20 - David's cybersecurity origin story (via a RAT trojan)
• 09:55 - Transitioning from tech to leadership
• 12:55 - Creating safe-to-fail environment
• 16:30 - Innovation, AI, and learning from Kubernetes
• 19:45 - Cybersecurity misconceptions
• 21:40 – Sharing of cybersecurity training & workshops available for family members
• 24:11 - Starting a cybersecurity blog and going viral
• 26:19 – Thoughts on how industry can do more to support the development of capability in cybersecurity
• 29:27 - Learning from other industries & embracing diversity
• 31:19 - Will AI have a fairytale ending or turn dystopian?
• 34:45 - Why mentoring matters in developing the next generations of cybersecurity leaders
• 38:21 - Breaking away from military-style cybersecurity hierarchy
• 40:27 - Advice to someone aspiring to become a cybersecurity leader
• 43:32 - Closing remarks