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When technological advancements scale new peaks every day, they likewise create valleys of vulnerability that pose unexpected threats to businesses. Evolutions in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT) and quantum computing promise organizations a more efficient tomorrow, but at the same time, an unsuspecting click could lead to disaster.

As the landscape of cyber threats widens, Stern Speakers & Advisors offers organizations insights from the foremost cybersecurity experts in the field. Their wisdom guides leaders around the world as they demystify the maze of security threats, decode the cryptic language of hackers, and stand steadfast in the face of digital adversity.

Chris Painter: The New Cyber Threats Affecting the Globe

Cyber threats are coming at businesses, governments and individuals faster than ever before. Multi-award-winning cybersecurity expert Chris Painter, a member of the Global Commission on the Stability of Cyberspace, spotlights the escalating cyber threats that often outpace corporate and government awareness and deftly explains how they are being exploited in current global conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine War. A former U.S. government official, his insight is crucial for entities preparing for the next generation of threats.

America stands at a pivotal moment in history, where artificial intelligence is reshaping the very foundation of national security. According to Harvard Kennedy School professor Juliette Kayyem, AI is not just a technological advancement — it is a force multiplier, one that can either strengthen our defenses or be exploited by our adversaries. In her revealing presentations, she outlines the importance of leveraging AI’s power for good while mitigating the risks that come with it such as cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, supply chain disruptions and more. Audiences leave her talks with a practical understanding of the national security implications of AI and how we can better harness its powers and regulate the vulnerabilities it is simultaneously creating for our safety.

Jonathan Zittrain: Use Your Imagination to Develop Effective Cybersecurity Protections

As technology races forward, so does the ingenuity of security threats. Harvard professor of law and computer science Jonathan Zittrain underscores the need for creativity when identifying often-overlooked vulnerabilities, especially in the IoT era where a connected appliance might just be a hacker’s invitation. Also an expert on AI and the future of work as well as a pioneer in the field of cyberspace and cyberlaw, Zittrain warns that next-generation robots are coming – and unless we prepare for it, the way we establish trust online may be forever changed.

Azeem Azhar: Bridging the ‘Exponential Gap’ in a Rapidly Evolving Tech Landscape

In the words of Azeem Azhar, celebrated bestselling author of “The Exponential Age” (2021) and host of the Exponential View podcast, technology is racing ahead, often leaving society trailing in its wake. This accelerated progress not only unveils vast possibilities for innovation and growth, but also presents enlarged vulnerabilities ripe for hackers to attack. Institutions that lag behind risk deepening the “exponential gap” between the digital haves and have nots. As Azhar envisions a forthcoming era of collaboration, he emphasizes that technology firms, governments and the broader society must converge to seal this widening chasm.

Jeff Hancock: Rewiring How We Think About Truth and Trust in the Tech Era

A new trust framework is emerging – fueled by social, economic and technological forces that will profoundly alter how we trust, not only what we see and read online, but also one another. Many believe technology is the villain – an enabler of lies and deception online – but Jeff Hancock, director of Stanford’s Cyber Policy Center and an expert on technology’s role in deception and trust, believes the opposite is true: it’s our intuition that is off. And that changes everything. Hancock says the real disruption taking place today isn’t technological, it’s psychological. He reveals several key principles that can guide how we think about truth, trust and cybersecurity on the internet, and how we – as individuals and as businesses – can rewire the ways we detect lies and better gauge truth.

In times of rapid technological change, threats are constantly evolving – but so are our defenses. With practical knowledge from cybersecurity and AI experts, organizations will be equipped to stay safe, no matter how the landscape shifts.


As bad actors evolve alongside emerging technologies, organizations must innovate and stay a step ahead in their cybersecurity approach to keep their information safe. Stern Strategy Group connects you with renowned thought leaders whose insights, strategies and management frameworks help organizations fuel growth and disruptive innovation to better compete in a constantly changing world. Let us arrange for these esteemed experts to advise your organization via virtual and in-person consulting sessions, workshops and keynotes.

Essential Cybersecurity Insights for Business Leaders was last modified: October 2nd, 2025 by Meg Virag