Welcome back to the "To the Point" cybersecurity podcast! In this episode, hosts Rachael Lyon and Jonathan Knepher continue their enlightening conversation with Maria Roat, former US Deputy Federal Chief Information Officer and Small Business Administration CIO. Maria brings her wealth of experience from both government and private sectors to the table, sharing practical advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals, insights on how CIOs can tackle prioritization in the face of endless cyber threats, and what it takes to drive sustained improvement in large organizations.

The discussion also dives into the challenges of serving on diverse boards—from healthcare to cybersecurity consulting—and how Maria adapts her advocacy and expertise for each unique environment. She opens up about the importance of mentorship in the field, sharing powerful stories and encouraging both mentors and mentees to connect and learn from one another. Plus, Maria gives us a glimpse into her personal journey, adventures, and love for lifelong learning—whether that’s traveling the world or taking on a Spartan race with her family.

Tune in for an episode packed with career wisdom, leadership strategies, and Maria’s signature perspective on creating an impact across the cybersecurity landscape.

For links and resources discussed in this episode, please visit our show notes at https://www.forcepoint.com/govpodcast/e333