How AI, Cloud Outages, and Data Protection Will Define Cybersecurity in 2026

As we close out 2025 and prepare for 2026, Dr. Eric Cole breaks down what it truly takes to be a world-class CISO in the year ahead. In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Cole shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, health, resilience, and why taking care of yourself is foundational to protecting your organization. From personal reflection to executive-level strategy, this episode goes far beyond technical controls. Dr. Cole then dives deep into the three forces reshaping cybersecurity in 2026: artificial intelligence, cloud reliability, and ransomware, all centered around one core principle that too many organizations ignore: data protection. You will learn why AI is an augmentation tool, not a replacement for humans, how unrestricted AI use is creating massive new risks, why recent cloud outages are a warning sign for every executive, and how CISOs can regain trust, influence, and a permanent seat at the boardroom table. This episode is essential listening for CISOs, security leaders, executives, and anyone responsible for protecting critical data in an increasingly unstable digital world. Part two of this series continues next week.