About Us

Ryan Smith of RLS Consulting, in partnership with defend-id, has expertly simplified the complexities of cyber risk for our team. His expertise in cyber risk solutions and sales has significantly enhanced our decision-making and security posture. Ryan’s effective communication and educational background enable him to deliver complex topics with clarity, making him an invaluable resource for any business looking to improve their cybersecurity strategy.

Ryan has a way with words that makes cyber risk sound like plain business sense. He's got a knack for breaking down the technical into strategic advantages any company can grasp and use. His educational foundation doesn't just show in his credentials; it's evident in every conversation. He turns complex cyber concepts into engaging, impactful dialogues.

I have had the pleasure of working with Ryan for several years. His extensive knowledge in Cyber security has helped me to communicate and share knowledge around complex topics with my clients. I highly recommend Ryan’s guidance especially when working with clients who need more than just a quote; Ryan helped me explain to my clients what their real exposures are in understandable manner.

Ryan has been very helpful in developing our cyber program. He looks at cyber from multiple aspects and helped our agency develop a comprehensive program.

I have referred Ryan to several close contacts because I am fully confident in his expertise and integrity. He stands out as one of the most well-rounded and balanced professionals I know. Beyond his ability to engage in meaningful conversation, Ryan has a unique talent for simplifying complex cyber risks into straightforward, actionable insights. I don’t think it’s a secret that most businesses and people are ill-prepared with their cyber exposures. There is a tremendous amount of opportunity in the space for professionals to educate and help resolve these problems. I know Ryan has been studying and working deeply in this discipline for a while now. His experience, intellect, and personality are why I continue to recommend people talk to him!

It's rare to encounter a professional who combines profound empathy with expertise, but that's exactly what Ryan Smith represents in the cyber risk domain. Having known Ryan for years, I've seen firsthand how his unique blend of skills has made a tangible impact on businesses and vendors alike. Ryan has a remarkable ability to demystify cyber risk, translating complex concepts into business-oriented solutions that are not only accessible but actionable. His extensive experience in sales and crafting cyber risk solutions has empowered businesses to enhance their security posture and navigate difficult decisions with confidence. Beyond his practical expertise, Ryan has established himself as a thought leader in cyber-related topics, especially within the independent insurance agency channel. His problem-solving acumen and customer-first approach have been invaluable for businesses unsure of how to begin their cybersecurity and compliance journeys. What truly sets Ryan apart, however, is his commitment to education and knowledge sharing. With a strong educational background in this field, he's not just a consultant; he's a mentor determined to uplift others. Ryan's dedication to helping businesses improve their sales tactics and better serve their clients in the face of cyber challenges is commendable. I am proud to endorse Ryan Smith, not just for his professional achievements but for his unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. His course on 'selling for cyber risk' is not just a testament to his expertise but a reflection of his passion for empowering others.

Ryan is a pro! He partners with his clients to help educate them on cyber risk and puts the topic in simple, business-oriented terms. Ryan’s thought leadership and sales coaching can help others improve their sales and become that trusted advisor to their own clients navigating the challenges of cyber risk management.

I don’t even know where to begin with a commentary about Ryan Smith. Aside from being one of the nicest people in the industry, his knowledge of cyber risk is extensive. I have had the pleasure of working with Ryan for the last several years in my role with the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America (the Big I) as Program Manager of the Agents Council for Technology (ACT). By far, Ryan’s professionalism is unmatched. He has devoted his time selflessly, as a contributor to our Security Issues work group, providing his knowledge and insights on cyber security and compliance issues with his only goal to support and educate the independent insurance agency distribution channel. He has a way of taking the most complicated topics and breaking them down into easily understood information. His patient and calm demeanor only adds to his ability to provide solid, trustworthy guidance. I have always felt Ryan simply wants to help others understand and navigate the complex issues surrounding cyber security.

I've had the pleasure of collaborating with Ryan in various roles over the last eight years. From the beginning, Ryan's knack for simplifying complex cybersecurity concepts for any business stood out to me. His commitment to customer-first principles is evident in how he educates potential clients about their cybersecurity risks and available tools, even if they choose not to work with us directly. Ryan genuinely believes in empowering others with knowledge, making working with him a transformative experience for anyone looking to elevate their expertise in cybersecurity.

I've been helping clients with Cyber insurance for years but there is always more to learn from Ryan Smith. We've teamed up on complex placements and he adds real value in Fortside's sales process by helping us uncover unique exposures so we can properly address them with our markets. I'm excited he's taking the next steps to help more agencies.

Ryan is a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to cybersecurity. Check this out if you sell cyber solutions or liability. I've learned a ton from him.

I'm a little biased (as his brother) but have always looked up to Ryan in so many ways. I believe he is a GREAT educator, whether that was helping me get through advanced math classes in school as a kid or helping me brainstorm on sales ideas or concepts in my career. I've spoken with a lot of his clients and colleagues over the years and have heard only positive feedback and compliments from every single one. Anyone he works with in the future will be lucky to have a working relationship with him and I have no doubt they'll see massive value in the skills/knowledge he brings to the table!

I had the pleasure of working under Ryan L. Smith many years ago prior to his dive into Cybersecurity. I was very green - my first 'real' job at a 'real' software company. He helped establish direction, confidence, and trust in our company at the time (Vertafore) so that I could better communicate with our customers. When it comes to guidance, Ryan is selfless and transparent, providing unabridged knowledge and expertise while not holding back on the sometimes-harsh realities of the matter in question. You can rely on him to be a helping hand.

I have been a client of Ryan's in the past. He has never led us wrong and has put us in a much better position agency wide.

I highly recommend Ryan Smith to help navigate the landscape of the cyber insurance world. It's not IF, but WHEN, your company is hit with an attack. Being prepared and protected is important and should be explored for every business. Reach out to Ryan for his guidance and you can sleep better at night knowing you are protected.