How to Become a “T-Shaped” Leader

The New CISO

In this episode of The New CISO, Steve is again joined by guest Grant Lockwood, Comedian, DJ, and the Chief Information Security Officer at Virtus Health. Today, Grant returns to explain how his approach to effective communication has evolved since becoming a security leader. Listen to the episode to learn the difference between safety and security, how stand-up comedy gave Grant an efficient framework for his CISO role, and the importance of having balance outside of work through hobbies.

Listen to Steve and Grant discuss how to maintain confidence in work and life and how to optimize your message to make the best first impression:

Comedy and Cyber Security (1:34)

Steve asks Grant why stand-up comedy has made him a better CISO. To Grant, stand-up helped him learn how to operate in a degraded state, which he finds comparable to dealing with cyber programs.

Like when a joke bombs, sometimes the most protected security programs can get hacked. Grant shares why these two mediums are similar and how both have given him the confidence to succeed in challenging situations.

Comfort and Confidence (4:12)

Grant shares how he determines his stand-up set lists and how to use that to get the audience on his side. He finds these lessons to also help in the workplace and understands the confidence that this framework provides.

Studying Delivery (6:45)

Grant reflects on the resources he’s utilized to become a better comedian, including listening to comedy podcasts. Ultimately, Grant expresses the importance of being economical with words—whether at work or on stage—to become an effective communicator.

Good Advice (9:22)

Steve presses Grant on what advice he would give his younger self, especially reflecting on his journey from an admin role to where he is now. Grant advises listeners to stay curious and teachable since there is much to learn.

He also reveals why people should be well-rounded, T-shaped individuals and how hobbies can provide transferable skills.

Getting There (12:31)

Reflecting on his career, Grant explains what he meant when he said, “The thing that got you there isn’t what will keep you there.” He clarifies how his measures of success have changed as he’s learned more about how running a business works.

Learning From Community (27:12)

As both a comedian and a CISO, Grant explores how the security community could learn from the stand-up comedy community. Both communities are very supportive, but comedy is entirely audience-dependent.

Therefore, comedy can teach security professionals to have better communication by “knowing your audience.”

The New CISO (19:09)

To Grant, being a new CISO means being adaptable, learning both the business and security side, and improving those around you.

Links mentioned:

LinkedIn

Comedy Podcasts/Resources:

Dissecting the Frog

The Comedian’s Comedian Podcast