Unconventional Paths to Cybersecurity (AKA keeping your Nan Safe From Hackers)
How does surviving adversity lead to impact in cyber? In this episode of Razorwire, James Rees sits down with Jemma, founder of CultureGem, to explore the human side of security.
From homelessness to industry influence, Jemma shares how unconventional paths can drive powerful contributions in InfoSec. You’ll hear her take on “cyberlebrities”, budget waste, accessible learning, and why protecting people—not just data—matters most.
Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting your journey, this conversation will challenge how you think about inclusion, communication, and leadership in cybersecurity.
🎧 Listen on your favourite platform:
https://razorwire.captivate.fm/listen
🔑 Key Talking Points
🧠 The Human Element in Cybersecurity
Learn why less than 1% of cyber budgets go to human factors—despite 97% of incidents being traced back to people.
🌍 Accessibility as a Security Imperative
Jemma reveals how CultureGem’s approach removes learning barriers, making security understandable for everyone.
🤝 The Evolving InfoSec Community
From “cyberlebrities” to systemic bias—Jemma shares what needs to change and how diverse talent strengthens the sector.
"If 10% of an IT budget is spent on cyber, less than 1% is spent on the human side. Yet 97% of incidents are put down to human error."
— Jemma, Founder of CultureGem
🔍 What You'll Learn
💪 Overcoming adversity as a foundation for infosec careers
💸 Rethinking security budgets to reflect real risk
🔓 Inclusive learning = stronger organisational security
🧩 Moving beyond compliance to authentic engagement
🤖 The role of culture in vendor & tech evaluation
🗣️ Translating complex concepts for non-technical stakeholders
⚖️ Spotting bias and creating room for new voices in security
🧰 Resources Mentioned
🔹 CultureGem – culturegem.co.uk
🔹 The Cyber Sentinels Handbook – by James Rees
🔹 OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project)
🔹 WannaCry – 2017 ransomware attack that inspired Jemma’s journey
🎧 Other Razorwire Episodes You’ll Enjoy
🧠 Mental Health & the Human Side of Cybersecurity
YouTube: https://youtu.be/k_VVu_bQZXg
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1h88WI6RlKjF0BQ3ylbnfH
🔥 Cybersecurity Burnout & Organisational Culture
YouTube: https://youtu.be/naUT5jBQE_s
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2xaF8hTnFR7MfQ0ob9wBu3
🎙️ About Razorwire
Hosted by James Rees, Razorwire features top voices in cybersecurity—sharing real-world insight, stories, and strategies to stay ahead of threats. New episodes every other Wednesday.
📩 Contact: podcast@razorthorn.com
🌐 Website: https://www.razorthorn.com
🔗 Connect with Razorthorn
📺 YouTube: Razorthorn Security
🐦 Twitter: @RazorThornLTD
💼 LinkedIn: Razorthorn Security
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