What’s the real reason most companies invest in cybersecurity, and why is it too late? In this episode of CEO Confidential, host Natalie Nathanson sits down with Corey White, veteran cybersecurity leader and CEO of Cyvatar.ai. With nearly 30 years of experience, including time spent on the front lines of major breaches, Corey shares what leaders get wrong about cybersecurity, why compliance isn’t enough, and how AI is both a threat and a tool. From servant leadership practices to go-to-market strategy, Corey gives a masterclass in building trust, scaling a business, and staying one step ahead in an evolving threat landscape.

Key takeaways for CEOs and growth-stage leaders:

• Don’t wait for disaster. Most companies only invest in cybersecurity after a breach. Be the one who builds protection before it’s needed.
• Not all MSPs are created equal. Many providers market cybersecurity expertise without real depth, leaving clients exposed.
• AI is a double-edged sword. Use it to streamline operations (like automating RFPs), but don’t trust it blindly; foundational knowledge matters.
• Think like a strategist. Conduct quarterly market analysis to adjust your go-to-market approach and respond to shifting customer needs.
• Advocate for system-wide change. SMBs face unique vulnerabilities. Solving them may require incentives or intervention at the government level.
• Whether you’re building a tech startup or leading a growing enterprise, this conversation offers a practical lens on cybersecurity, leadership, and sustainable growth.

Quote of the Show:

• “ You have to figure out who you are and then be that person. You can't win at life by being someone else. So be you.”

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreydwhite/
• Website: https://cyvatar.ai/

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2D1YbT2QhKxIwbREpU7EMb
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-thrive-ceo-insights-on-driving-change/id1740828813
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/fa60b654-1955-4055-93df-fdd40c2a5c8f/shift-thrive-ceo-insights-on-driving-change
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shift-thrive-ceo-insights-166792501
• Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/shift-and-thrive-ceo-insights-on-driving-change/PC:1001086797

This show is sponsored by Magnetude Consulting, bringing you the thinking-Power of a Growth Consultancy and the Getting-It-Done Power of a full-service B2B Marketing Agency.

Learn more at: https://www.magnetudeconsulting.com