Creative Resilience in Cybersecurity & AI: A Conversation with Joe Saunders and Leslie Grandy

In this episode of Exploited: The Cyber Truth, RunSafe Security CEO Joe Saunders joins Leslie Grandy, Lead Executive in Residence at the University of Washington, for an insightful conversation about how creative resilience is reshaping cybersecurity in the age of AI. From philosophical strategies like “Premeditation of Evils” to inversion thinking and paradoxical reasoning, Leslie shares how blending creativity with technical precision can help organizations better anticipate and prepare for evolving cyber threats. Joe and Leslie also explore the double-edged nature of generative AI—how it can serve both attackers and defenders—and why companies must embrace human-centered frameworks alongside technical tools. Together, they examine the risks of expert bias, the pitfalls of over-automating with AI, and how to design cybersecurity strategies that prioritize adaptability, foresight, and Secure by Design principles. Topics covered: The role of creative thinking in modern cybersecurityInversion thinking as a planning tool for resilienceHow attackers—and defenders—are using generative AIWhy AI can’t replace human judgment in risk strategyThe critical need for Secure by Design software development Whether you’re building products, leading a team, or defining security policies, this episode offers a fresh, actionable perspective on how to stay ahead of both known and unknown threats.