UC Berkeley Cybersecurity Grad Left Silicon Valley to Build Her Own Company (Here's Why)

In this episode, we’re joined by Oluwadamilola Obamehinti, a cybersecurity executive with over 15 years of experience working across Fortune 100 companies like eBay and the Founder of Cyber Culture.

She shares her journey from building a successful career in cybersecurity to leaving Silicon Valley to start her own company, along with the real strategies that helped her grow her personal brand and expand her influence in the tech space.

We dive into practical insights on breaking into cybersecurity, navigating corporate environments, building a strong C-Suite network, and attracting high-value clients. Oluwadamilola also breaks down the differences between GRC and Incident Response, the evolving role of certifications in tech, and the emerging risks around AI and security.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to grow in tech, transition into cybersecurity, or build a long-term, sustainable career.

⏱️ Timestamps:

0:00 Opening Remarks & Appreciation

1:04 Meet Oluwadamilola Obamehinti

1:33 Cyber Culture & Her Entrepreneurial Ventures

3:23 Her Cybersecurity Career Journey

4:56 Transition Into Entrepreneurship

5:16 Why She Made the Leap

5:54 Biggest Challenge in Building Her Brand