Four of cybersecurity podcasting’s most recognisable hosts have come together for a special episode of Defense in Depth.
They discuss the realities of building and sustaining cyber media brands.
Released today, 18 June, the episode sees CISO Series host David Spark joined by Dave Bittner from The CyberWire, Graham Cluley from Smashing Security and Leo Laporte from TWiT’s Security Now.
The discussion brings together competing podcast creators to share views on editorial decisions, audience trust and the role of cybersecurity media.
One topic covered is the growing use of artificial intelligence in podcast production. While all four participants said they use AI tools for tasks such as transcription, clip finding and workflow support, they agreed that editorial judgement should remain a human responsibility. Leo Laporte said: “I never use AI to choose information.”
The conversation also looks at the relationship between advertisers and audiences. David Spark discusses turning down advertising opportunities when requests conflict with listener privacy, while Leo Laporte explains why he has rejected advertisers he does not trust.
Another area of debate focuses on the role cyber media plays in helping cybersecurity professionals stay informed and improve their knowledge. The hosts discuss how podcasts and other media can support news gathering, education and professional development across the sector.
The episode also includes a lighter discussion on podcast production habits. All four hosts identify common frustrations with amateur podcasting, including lengthy introductions and conversational openings that delay the main content.
Defense in Depth is a weekly cybersecurity advice podcast hosted by David Spark alongside recurring co-hosts Edward Contreras, Chief Information Security Officer at Frost Bank, and Steve Zalewski, former Chief Information Security Officer at Levi Strauss.
The show is released every Thursday and is based on discussions taking place within the online cybersecurity community.
