How does a small-town kid from Chicago rise to become a leading figure in cybersecurity and a CEO, all while maintaining the values of discipline and humility? Meet Chris Schueler, our guest on this episode, who shares his remarkable journey from army veteran to the head of Cyderes, a top cybersecurity firm. Our conversation unfolds against the backdrop of our friendship, which began over a decade ago through our children's shared karate lessons, setting the stage for a discussion about the power of positioning oneself for success. Chris reveals the exhilarating moment Robert Herjavec of Shark Tank fame chose him to steer a cybersecurity company, a testament to his dedication and strategic vision.

Chris's story takes us through his formative years, grappling with the decision to join the military versus pursuing college, and how his service uncovered his academic potential, leading to an MBA from Auburn. We explore the joys and surprises of his personal life, including a whirlwind romance that saw him eloping with his wife and embarking on an unexpected journey to Honduras. His twelve-year military career, marked by a pivotal transition to cybersecurity post-9/11, is a testament to innovation and leadership, culminating in a significant role at the Pentagon. This chapter of Chris's life illustrates the unique blend of civilian and military expertise that laid the groundwork for modern cybersecurity.

Throughout our discussion, the themes of discipline and personal branding emerge as cornerstones of Chris's success. We explore how he morphed information assurance into cybersecurity, exemplifying the concept of "defense in depth." Drawing inspiration from influential books and thinkers, Chris shares insights on maintaining balance in physical, spiritual, and professional realms, emphasizing incremental improvement and the value of keeping one's word. This episode promises a wealth of lessons on achieving growth with grace, leaving listeners inspired to embark on their own journeys of discipline and self-discovery.

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