Episode 200: Alan Paller's Vision and Our Next Chapter
In episode 200 of Cybersecurity Where You Are, Sean Atkinson, Tony Sager, and Ed Skoudis sit down with Frank Reeder, Co-Founder and Founding Chair of the Center for Internet Security® (CIS®). Together, they reflect on how Alan Paller's vision continues to drive CIS forward. In the spirit of that vision, this milestone episode also marks a new chapter for the podcast: Ed Skoudis joins as co-host of Cybersecurity Where You Are.
Here are some highlights from our episode:
- 01:09. The two complementary missions of CIS
- 02:55. Three defining moments that have shaped CIS into the organization it is today
- 08:10. The story of naming CIS
- 10:31. How CIS and SANS advance Alan Paller's vision of bringing people together
- 13:50. Personal anecdotes of Alan Paller as a connector of people
- 15:45. "What would Alan do?" A question that continues to guide CIS and SANS
- 22:00. How CIS security best practices are emblematic of helping others
- 27:12. CIS's "secret sauce" as a trusted, neutral platform for cybersecurity collaboration
- 29:53. How CIS can continue to embody Alan Paller's philosophy into the future
- 37:47. A special announcement: Ed Skoudis as a new co-host on the podcast
Resources
- CIS Benchmarks® List
- CIS Critical Security Controls®
- Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center®
- Episode 114: 3 Board Chairs Reflect on 25 Years of Community
- Alan Paller Laureate Program
- SANS Difference Makers Awards
If you have some feedback or an idea for an upcoming episode of Cybersecurity Where You Are, let us know by emailing [email protected].
As of June 23, 2025, the MS-ISAC has introduced a fee-based membership. Any potential reference to no-cost MS-ISAC services no longer applies.