Cybersecurity, it’s a word that often feels distant, reserved for tech teams in dark rooms, scanning for invisible threats. But in reality, it affects all of us, from startup founders to enterprise leaders, and even everyday consumers.
In my latest Tenacity with Sonia C podcast episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Brittany Greenfield, CEO of Wabbi, a cybersecurity powerhouse that integrates security seamlessly into software development. Brittany is a force in the industry, breaking barriers as a female founder in cybersecurity, an industry where women make up less than 25% of the workforce.
This conversation wasn’t just about cybersecurity, it was about resilience, leadership, and how we, as women in tech, can reshape the future.
Cybersecurity Starts at the Code Level, And Why It’s Often Overlooked
One of the biggest misconceptions about cybersecurity is that it’s something you “add on” later. Brittany made it clear that this outdated approach is why so many breaches happen in the first place. Security needs to be baked into the development process from the start, just like designing a home with security in mind, rather than bolting on a few alarms as an afterthought.
As someone running a software development company, I see this issue firsthand. Many of my clients come to me after outsourcing development, only to realize that their product is riddled with security vulnerabilities. They didn’t think about security early on, and now they’re playing catch-up, a costly and stressful situation.
The takeaway? Whether you’re a startup founder or an enterprise leader, cybersecurity isn’t optional. It’s fundamental.
Women in Tech: The Challenges and the Path Forward
Brittany’s journey into cybersecurity wasn’t conventional. Like many of us, she didn’t fit the stereotypical mold of a hoodie-wearing, basement-dwelling coder. And yet, she built a company tackling one of the biggest challenges in tech today. Her success story is a great example of women in tech making a significant impact.
As a woman in tech myself, I deeply resonated with her experience. We’ve both faced moments of doubt—not because of our capabilities, but because the industry often underestimates us. Brittany shared how, despite her deep expertise, she encountered more fundraising challenges as a female founder in cybersecurity. Instead of waiting for the system to change, she bootstrapped Wabbi and built a lean, resilient company that can stand on its own.
This is why I’m passionate about initiatives like Hackergal, where I serve on the board. We need to introduce young girls to coding and cybersecurity early, not just to fill the talent gap, but to reshape the industry’s DNA. Promoting women in tech through education and opportunities is crucial for future advancements.
The Cybersecurity Threat No One Sees Coming: AI and Human Manipulation
One of the most eye-opening moments in our conversation was Brittany’s perspective on AI in cybersecurity.
Yes, AI can help companies detect threats faster, but guess what? Cybercriminals are using it too. They’re automating attacks, creating sophisticated phishing scams, and even cloning voices to manipulate people. If you’ve ever received a suspicious email from your “boss” asking for urgent wire transfers—imagine AI making these scams nearly undetectable.
This hit home for me. I’ve had employees fall for phishing emails because they didn’t double-check the sender’s details. And with AI-generated deep fakes becoming more realistic, the need for cybersecurity awareness is higher than ever.
Brittany’s advice? It all comes down to processes and risk mitigation. It’s not about eliminating every risk—it’s about making smart, educated decisions to protect your business. Whether you’re a startup using open-source software or an investor handling sensitive financial data, cybersecurity should be embedded into everything you do.
Takeaways for Founders & Business Leaders
If there’s one thing this conversation reinforced for me, it’s that cybersecurity isn’t just a tech problem, it’s a business imperative. Here are some key takeaways for entrepreneurs and business leaders:
- Cybersecurity Starts Early – If you’re building software, don’t wait until launch to think about security. Start from day one.
- Women Belong in Cyber – We need more female leaders in cybersecurity. Whether you’re a developer, product manager, or entrepreneur, there’s space for you in this industry. Supporting women in tech is essential for progress.
- AI is a Double-Edged Sword – AI can help secure systems, but it also enables more advanced cyberattacks. Stay informed and implement smart security processes.
- Risk Mitigation Over Perfection – You can’t eliminate all threats, but you can implement safeguards to reduce vulnerabilities and respond effectively when incidents occur.
Final Thoughts: Making Cybersecurity a Business Priority
Talking with Brittany wasn’t just an insightful discussion, it was a wake-up call. Cybersecurity isn’t a niche topic reserved for IT teams; it’s a fundamental business priority, and as AI continues to evolve, the companies that prioritize security will be the ones that thrive. We must also acknowledge the role of women in tech and their contributions to the field.
If you’re a startup founder, tech leader, or just someone who wants to understand cybersecurity better, give this episode a listen. And if you’re interested in diving deeper, check out Wabbi and the work Brittany is doing to make cybersecurity accessible for all.
🔗 Listen to the full episode of Tenacity with Sonia C
Let’s keep this conversation going, what are your biggest cybersecurity concerns in business today? Connect with me on LinkedIn, Instagram or Email
