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The AI Mindset: Cybersecurity, Leadership & Embracing Change with Dan Sorensen

In this engaging episode of The CXO Secrets podcast, host David McClelland sits down with Dan Sorensen, CISO and Cyber Intel Officer at the U.S. Air National Guard, to discuss the evolving role of AI in cybersecurity and leadership. Dan shares his perspectives on the "AI mindset," comparing AI's transformative impact to historical innovations like calculators and power tools. He explains how embracing AI as a tool—not a threat—can empower professionals to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world. “AI won’t replace us, but those who master it will excel,” Dan emphasises. The conversation delves into ethical challenges, the risks of centralised AI, and how leaders can manage AI-driven transformations. Dan also highlights the importance of proactive cybersecurity, emphasising incident response planning, tabletop exercises, and fostering a resilient organisational culture. Dan’s insights on mentorship, goal setting, and balancing career ambition with personal legacy offer valuable takeaways for professionals at any stage of their journey. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on AI’s opportunities and challenges, leadership strategies, and the future of cybersecurity.

Dan Sorensen

CISO

Air National Guard

Dan Sorensen

CISO

Air National Guard

My mission is to empower organizations to navigate digital risk, leveraging cybersecurity and AI to drive resilience, innovation, and trust. With 23+ years as a cybersecurity leader, CISO, board advisor, author, and military veteran, I build strategies that protect critical assets, enable growth, and shape the next generation of cyber talent.

As a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and advisor, I’ve directed $50M+ cybersecurity programs, briefed boards and senior leaders, and delivered results that align security with business outcomes. My work spans cyber risk management, Zero Trust, FedRAMP/CMMC, IAM/PAM, and compliance with global frameworks including NIST RMF, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and the EU AI Act. I’ve guided organizations through digital transformation, regulatory change, and emerging threats—transforming risk posture with AI-driven solutions and measurable ROI.

I actively contribute to shaping international AI security standards: providing input to the EU AI Act, co-authoring the CSA/OWASP Agentic AI Red Teaming Guide, and supporting the SANS & OWASP initiative to standardize AI security controls. Through OWASP AI Exchange, I’ve helped develop global AI governance frameworks adopted by 1,000+ practitioners.
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