Balancing Security & Innovation - Rick Brown | 10x Your Team Ep. #405

In this insightful episode of 10x Your Team, Rick Brown, a cybersecurity expert and leader at Onyx Group, discusses the intersection of technology, leadership, and human connection. From breaking down complex cybersecurity challenges to sharing personal insights about balancing technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, Rick offers a unique perspective on protecting critical infrastructure while maintaining a people-first approach. The conversation explores everything from government cybersecurity to the importance of maintaining technical skills as a leader, all while emphasizing the value of giving back to the community and maintaining work-life balance. Mr. Rick Brown Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Onyx Group LLC Mr. Brown is a visionary leader in cybersecurity and the founder of Onyx Group LLC, a premier firm specializing in operational technology security and information assurance. With over twenty years of distinguished experience, he has held transformative leadership roles within the U.S. Army, Coast Guard, and key federal agencies, where he now serves as a special advisor for sensitive cyber programs and research groups across both public and private sectors. His career is marked by strategic innovation and an unwavering commitment to protecting critical digital infrastructures, seamlessly integrating advanced technology with robust risk management practices. Renowned for his expertise in mobile device security, digital forensics, and offensive security assessments, Mr. Brown has consistently guided senior executives through complex incident management scenarios, offering decisive leadership during critical security events. His experience extends to supporting legal proceedings as a forensic expert witness, where his testimony has proven invaluable in courtrooms. Through his executive training programs, Mr. Brown empowers leaders with the strategic insights and practical skills necessary to cultivate resilient, forward-thinking security cultures in today’s dynamic threat landscape. Chapters: Introduction and Technical Setup [00:00 - 02:29] Initial audio adjustments Setting up the conversation Government Cybersecurity Discussion [02:29 - 06:42] Constitutional perspectives Current challenges in government security Impact on critical operations Leadership and Technical Expertise [25:32 - 26:27] Maintaining technical skills as a leader The importance of hands-on leadership Programming and technical credibility Family and Work-Life Balance [31:51 - 33:27] Personal stories and experiences Balancing technology and family life Leadership lessons from parenting Decision Making and Priorities [33:27 - 34:51] Transparency with family Balancing business and personal life Decision criteria for leaders Community Impact and Giving Back [48:31 - 50:25] Volunteer work in forensics Supporting at-risk youth The importance of second chances Final Thoughts and Contact Information [54:02 - 54:48] How to connect with Rick Onyx Group services Closing remarks and outro #CybersecurityLeadership #TechAndLeadership #10xYourTeam #ProtectAndLead #CybersecurityInsights #LeadershipMatters #HumanCenteredTech #BalancingExpertise #CriticalInfrastructure #PeopleFirstApproach #TechForGood #WorkLifeBalance #GivingBack #OnyxGroup #CyberResilience