Overview
Daryl Crockett, CEO and Founder of ValidDatum, a company specializing in data privacy, compliance and cybersecurity, entered the media space with minimal exposure before partnering with VEW Media. Her expertise in cybersecurity was well-established, but she lacked the public platform to showcase it. VEW Media worked with Daryl across two separate campaigns, helping her secure interviews and features in top-tier media outlets such as NPR, The Wall Street Journal, and Bloomberg. Through a well-crafted strategy, VEW Media positioned Daryl as a thought leader in cybersecurity, especially in the field of ransomware and data protection.
Challenge
When Daryl Crockett initially approached VEW Media, she had no significant media presence. Despite her extensive experience and expertise in cybersecurity, particularly ransomware and data compliance, her thought leadership was limited to internal industry circles. The challenge was clear: she needed broader visibility, not just in cybersecurity media, but in mainstream outlets that would highlight her voice as a leader in a vital industry affecting global security and commerce.
Strategy and Execution
VEW Media developed a two-pronged strategy to elevate Daryl’s media presence. First, we crafted pitches focused on timely cybersecurity topics, particularly ransomware, which was dominating global headlines. Second, we coordinated media outreach targeting influential journalists, ensuring Daryl’s insights were available for real-time stories.
Key media angles pitched included:
- The increase in cyberattacks and their driving forces.
- The impact of ransomware on critical industries, such as real estate and healthcare.
- Potential government and private sector solutions to combat cyber threats.
- The need for fortified cyber defenses to protect vital national and economic operations.
In addition to thought leadership pieces, VEW Media ensured Daryl was reintroduced to journalists she had previously engaged with during the second phase of the campaign. This reintroduction allowed us to build momentum and re-establish relationships with the media.
Media Results
VEW Media secured several high-profile interviews and bylines for Daryl across both cybersecurity-specific and mainstream outlets, creating a media footprint that had been absent before our collaboration.
- CyberProtection Magazine and Podcast: Daryl participated in a detailed Zoom interview on October 28, 2021, offering expert insights into real-time cyber threats.
- Mission Critical Magazine: We facilitated an opportunity for Daryl to contribute to a podcast with Kim Al-Katib, further showcasing her authority.
- CyberNews: Daryl provided expert commentary for several articles on topics ranging from exposed web server files to botnet threats.
- American Banker: Daryl was featured in an article addressing the intersection of Facebook’s cybersecurity issues with the financial sector, establishing her as a versatile source on both tech and finance.
- eSecurity Planet: A critical thought piece on ransomware liability lawsuits featured Daryl’s input, extending her reach into the legal and enterprise technology space.
Additionally, Daryl’s quotes were included in significant outlets like:
- The Washington Examiner: Discussing Google’s new cybersecurity team.
- Law 360: A piece about cyber insurance that solidified her as a go-to expert in the insurance side of cybersecurity.
- Quartz and NPR: Articles that highlighted her commentary on national cybersecurity issues.
Impact
Through this comprehensive media strategy, Daryl transitioned from having no public media presence to becoming a recognized cybersecurity expert cited by influential publications. Her insights now reach a broader audience, including policymakers, enterprise leaders, and the general public, significantly enhancing the reputation of both herself and ValidDatum.
Daryl’s media profile now boasts recognition from key outlets, making her a trusted source for reporters covering cybersecurity and related business topics. As a result, ValidDatum’s visibility has also increased, positioning the company as a thought leader in data protection, compliance, and cybersecurity solutions.
Conclusion
By partnering with VEW Media, Daryl Crockett leveraged her technical expertise to become a respected media figure. VEW Media’s targeted media strategy and carefully crafted messaging not only raised Daryl’s profile but also strengthened her brand’s overall credibility. This case is a testament to the power of strategic media outreach, even when starting with no previous media exposure.