Episódios

  • Ep. 341 - The Security Awareness Series - Cognitive Bias in InfoSec with Josten Pena

    Ep. 341 - The Security Awareness Series - Cognitive Bias in InfoSec with Josten Pena
    Feb 16 2026
    Today on the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Security Awareness Series, Chris Hadnagy is joined by Josten Pena for an in-depth discussion on cognitive biases and their impact on cybersecurity. Together, they explore how inherent mental shortcuts can increase susceptibility to social engineering attacks. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing and owning these biases, rather than trying to eliminate them, and highlights practical mitigation strategies like hands-on training and fostering critical thinking. [Feb 16, 2026] 00:00 – Intro 00:47 – Meet the Co-Host: Josten Pena 01:38 – Intro Links: Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/  Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/  Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/  Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/  Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/  Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/  Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/  Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb  CLUTCH - http://www.pro-rock.com/  02:26 – Innocent Lives Foundation & Music 03:36 – Diving into Cognitive Bias 06:42 – Cognitive Bias in Cybersecurity 09:26 – Real-World Examples & Practical Solutions 18:59 – Recap, Final Thoughts & Outro www.social-engineer.com www.innocentlivesfoundation.org
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    22 minutos
  • Ep. 340 - The Human Element Series - Is AI Changing Human Behavior with Jacob Ward

    Ep. 340 - The Human Element Series - Is AI Changing Human Behavior with Jacob Ward
    Feb 9 2026
    In this episode, Chris Hadnagy is joined by Jacob Ward, a veteran technology journalist who has reported for NBC News, Al Jazeera, CNN, and PBS, and previously served as editor-in-chief of Popular Science. Jacob is the author of The Loop: How AI Is Creating a World Without Choices—and How to Fight Back, a book that anticipated today's commercial AI moment. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is shaping human behavior, decision-making, and autonomy, along with the ethical and societal challenges that come with an increasingly AI-driven world. [Feb 9, 2026] 00:00 – Intro 01:02 – Intro Links Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/  Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/  Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/  Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/  Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/  Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/  Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/  Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb  CLUTCH - http://www.pro-rock.com/  innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/ 01:33 – Meet Jacob Ward Jacob's Book - The Loop: How Technology Is Creating a World Without Choices and How to Fight Back. 04:52 – The Impact of AI on Human Behavior 12:37 – Ethical Concerns & Emotional Attachment to AI 19:27 – The Problem with AI Integration 20:42 – AI and Human Connection 21:49 – The Value of Human Attention 24:25 – The Future of Purpose in an AI World 25:31 – Geopolitical Impacts of AI 31:06 – Mentors and Influences 33:22 – Book Recommendations Addiction by Design – Natasha Dow Shull How Reason Almost Lost Its Mind – Judy L.Klein, Paul A Erickson, Thomas Sturm, Rebecca Lemov, Michael D. Gordin, Lorraine Daston Exit, Voice, and Loyalty – Albert O. Hirschman The Loop: How Technology Is Creating a World Without Choices and How to Fight Back – Jacob Ward 37:21 – Guest Wrap-Up & Outro www.social-engineer.com www.innocentlivesfoundation.org Follow Jacob Ward: TheRipCurrent.com   https://www.tiktok.com/@byjacobward  https://www.instagram.com/byjacobward   https://www.linkedin.com/in/wardjacob/   https://www.youtube.com/@byjacobward  Follow Chris Hadnagy:  Twitter: @humanhacker  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy 
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    38 minutos
  • Ep. 339 - The Doctor Is In Series - Are You An Imposter?

    Ep. 339 - The Doctor Is In Series - Are You An Imposter?
    Feb 2 2026
    Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Doctor Is In Series – where we will discuss understandings and developments in the field of psychology.   In today's episode, Chris and Dr. Abbie explore imposter syndrome, examining what it is, why it occurs, and how cultural and professional pressures can intensify it. They discuss common symptoms, personal experiences, and the psychological roots behind feeling undeserving of success. Through scientific insight and practical strategies, they share ways to recognize, reframe, and manage imposter syndrome with greater self-awareness and confidence. [Feb 2, 2026] 00:00 - Intro 00:20 - Meet the Hosts 00:54 - Upcoming Events and Announcements 02:29 - Defining Imposter Syndrome 06:42 - Cultural and Gender Influences 12:26 - Personality Traits and Imposter Syndrome 14:46 - Sponsor 16:12 - Balancing Humility and Confidence 19:34 - Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome 27:02 - Billy Boatwright's Story 30:36 -  Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Find us online:  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-abbie-maroño-phd  Instagram: @DoctorAbbieofficial  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy  References: Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.  Bennett-Levy, J., Butler, G., Fennell, M., Hackmann, A., Mueller, M., & Westbrook, D. (2004). The Oxford guide to behavioral experiments in cognitive therapy. Oxford University Press.  Breines, J. G., & Chen, S. (2012). Self-compassion increases self-improvement motivation. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 38(9), 1133–1143. https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167212445599  Bravata, D. M., Watts, S. A., Keefer, A. L., Madhusudhan, D. K., Taylor, K. T., Clark, D. M., Nelson, R. S., Cokley, K. O., & Hagg, H. K. (2020). Prevalence, predictors, and treatment of impostor syndrome: A systematic review. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 35(4), 1252–1275. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-019-05364-1  Clance, P. R. (1985). The impostor phenomenon: Overcoming the fear that haunts your success. Peachtree Publishers.  Clance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). The impostor phenomenon in high achieving women: Dynamics and therapeutic intervention. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice, 15(3), 241–247. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0086006  Edmondson, A. (1999). Psychological safety and learning behavior in work teams. Administrative Science Quarterly, 44(2), 350–383. https://doi.org/10.2307/2666999 
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    31 minutos
  • Ep 338 - The 4th Monday Series - Playing Chess With Your Taxes

    Ep 338 - The 4th Monday Series - Playing Chess With Your Taxes
    Jan 26 2026
    Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The 4th Monday Series with Chris Hadnagy and Mike Holfeld. Chris and Mike will be covering cutting edge global news to help people remain safe, secure and knowledgeable in a world where it is hard to know what is real and what is fake news.  In this episode, Chris and Mike are joined by Jeff Lareau, CPA and partner at Lareau & Lareau CPAs, a third-generation, family-owned firm in Central Florida. Jeff helps individuals and business owners simplify complex tax laws while focusing on long-term planning and confidence—not just filing returns. Jeff explains major tax changes heading into 2026, including updates to tips and overtime deductions, senior tax benefits, bonus depreciation, business planning strategies, healthcare marketplace pitfalls, and how to prepare now to avoid surprises later. [Jan 26, 2026] Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview 01:15 – Meet Jeff Lareau, CPA 02:30 – A Three-Generation Accounting Story 08:05 – Major 2026 Tax Changes Explained 09:50 – No Tax on Tips & Overtime 12:30 – Business Owner Strategies & Bonus Depreciation 14:45 – Planning Ahead & Filing Early 17:15 – Roth Accounts & Long-Term Tax Planning 21:00 – Income Limits & Key Deductions 24:45 – Healthcare Marketplace Pitfalls 27:30 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways Jeff Lareau's Website: https://www.lareaucpas.com/ Learn more: www.social-engineer.com www.social-engineer.org www.innocentlivesfoundation.org Follow Chris Hadnagy: Twitter: @humanhacker LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy
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    29 minutos
  • Ep. 337 - Security Awareness Series - Using Social Engineering on Yourself with Rosa Rowles

    Ep. 337 - Security Awareness Series - Using Social Engineering on Yourself with Rosa Rowles
    Jan 19 2026
    Today on the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Security Awareness Series, Chris is joined by Rosa Rowles. Together, they explore the nuances of social engineering, focusing on the critical role of pretexting and impersonation in security assessments. Their conversation underscores the significance of preparation and adaptability, highlighting how embodying different personas can enhance the effectiveness of security operations. [Jan 19, 2026] 00:00 - Intro 00:27 - Rosa Rowles Intro - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelbydacko/ 00:55 - Intro Links: - Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ - Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ - Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ - Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ - Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ - Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ - Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ - Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb - CLUTCH - https://www.clutchmerch.com/ - innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/ 02:54 - Long Time Listener... 05:24 - Pretexting and Impersonation 10:06 - Becoming the Part 12:04 - An Actor Prepares 13:54 - Sponsor 15:18 - SE for Yourself 23:25 - Saving FASE 25:46 - Principles in Action 29:34 - Wrap Up & Outro - www.social-engineer.com - www.innocentlivesfoundation.org
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    31 minutos
  • Ep. 336 - Human Element Series - Helping Successful Leaders with Mitchell Osmond

    Ep. 336 - Human Element Series - Helping Successful Leaders with Mitchell Osmond
    Jan 12 2026
    Today we are joined by Mitchell Osmond. Mitchell is a leadership consultant, executive coach, and host of the Dad Nation Podcast, ranked in the top 5% globally with over 33,000 listeners. With 15+ years in senior leadership, Mitchell helps high-performing men find success where it matters most: at home, in their health, and in their happiness, all while strengthening their careers. [Jan 12, 2026] 00:00 - Intro 00:29 - Intro Links - Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ - Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ - Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ - Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ - Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ - Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ - Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ - Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb - CLUTCH - https://www.clutchmerch.com/ - innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/ 02:06 - Mitchell Osmond Intro 02:45 - The Turning Point 08:01 - The Attraction Triangle 15:48 - Driving Essence 22:49 - Ask, Don't Tell 25:04 - Mirroring/Summarizing 27:21 - The Need to Be Real 29:00 - Find Mitchell Osmond Online - Website: https://www.dadnationco.com/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadnationco/ 29:26 - The Spark Starter Kit - Website: https://www.dadnationco.com/spark-starter-kit 31:36 - Book Recommendations - The Meaning of Marriage - Timothy Keller 32:43 - Mentors 35:57 - Guest Wrap Up & Outro - www.social-engineer.com - www.innocentlivesfoundation.org
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    37 minutos
  • Ep. 335 - The Doctor Is In Series - Is That Person Really a Psychopath?

    Ep. 335 - The Doctor Is In Series - Is That Person Really a Psychopath?
    Jan 5 2026
    Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Doctor Is In Series – where we will discuss understandings and developments in the field of psychology. In today's episode, Chris and Dr. Abbie explore psychopathy, focusing on its clinical definition and common misconceptions. They discuss how the term is often misapplied to various behaviors, stressing the importance of understanding its roots in empathy and fear. By highlighting the need for accurate knowledge, they aim to prevent stigmatization and promote a deeper understanding of mental health. [Jan 5, 2026] 00:00 - Intro 00:24 - Dr. Abbie Maroño Intro 00:42 - Intro Links - Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ - Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ - Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ - Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ - Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ - Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ - Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ - Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb - CLUTCH - http://www.pro-rock.com/ - innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/ 03:47 - The Topic of the Day: Psychopathy 04:28 - A Proper Definition 06:13 - Key Indicators 07:46 - Lack of Empathy 09:36 - The Influence of Social Media 11:51 - Evil ≠ Psychopathy 12:40 - Environment Matters 14:17 - Size Matters 16:02 - MasterClass Ad 17:28 - Work Advantage 18:46 - Gender Differences 20:54 - Big Red Flag! 26:00 - Teaching Emotional Regulation 27:27 - Label Hoarding 32:33 - It's Not Exclusive 36:04 - Wrap Up 36:58 - Next Month's Topic: Imposter Syndrome 37:23 - Outro - www.social-engineer.com - www.innocentlivesfoundation.org Find us online: - LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-abbie-maroño-phd - Instagram: @DoctorAbbieofficial - LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy References: Blair, R. J. R. (2007). The amygdala and ventromedial prefrontal cortex in morality and psychopathy. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 11(9), 387–392. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2007.07.003 Blair, R. J. R. (2013). The neurobiology of psychopathic traits in youths. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 14(11), 786–799. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3577 Frick, P. J., & White, S. F. (2008). Research review: The importance of callous-unemotional traits for developmental models of aggressive and antisocial behavior. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 49(4), 359–375. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2007.01862.x Glenn, A. L., & Raine, A. (2014). Neurocriminology: Implications for the punishment, prediction and prevention of criminal behaviour. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 15(1), 54–63. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3640 Hare, R. D. (2003). Manual for the Hare Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (2nd ed.). Toronto, ON: Multi-Health Systems. Hare, R. D., & Neumann, C. S. (2008). Psychopathy as a clinical and empirical construct. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 4, 217–246. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.3.022806.091452 Patrick, C. J. (Ed.). (2018). Handbook of psychopathy (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press. Pemment, J. (2013). Psychopathy versus sociopathy: Why the distinction has become crucial. Aggression and Violent Behavior, 18(5), 458–461. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.avb.2013.07.001 Severson, H., & Lynam, D. R. (2020). Psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder: Distinctions and implications for treatment. Current Opinion in Psychology, 37, 27–32. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.07.006 Skeem, J. L., Polaschek, D. L. L., Patrick, C. J., & Lilienfeld, S. O. (2011). Psychopathic personality: Bridging the gap between scientific evidence and public policy. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 12(3), 95–162. https://doi.org/10.1177/1529100611426706 Viding, E., Blair, R. J. R., Moffitt, T. E., & Plomin, R. (2005). Evidence for substantial genetic risk for psychopathy in 7-year-olds. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 46(6), 592–597. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2004.00393.x Walsh, Z., & Kosson, D. S. (2008). Psychopathy and violent crime: A prospective study of the influence of psychopathic traits on violence among offenders. Psychiatry, Psychology and Law, 15(2), 181...
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    38 minutos
  • Ep. 334 - The 4th Monday Series - Travel Hacks and Tips with Christie Hudson

    Ep. 334 - The 4th Monday Series - Travel Hacks and Tips with Christie Hudson
    Dec 22 2025

    Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The 4th Monday Series with Chris Hadnagy and Mike Holfeld. Chris and Mike will be covering cutting edge global news to help people remain safe, secure and knowledgeable in a world where it is hard to know what is real and what is fake news.

    Today, Chris and Mike are joined by Christie Hudson, a resident travel expert and head of global PR for Hotels.com. Christie is adept at transforming travel data into actionable insights, helping travelers maximize their experiences. With a background in PR from the University of Prince Edward Island's Atlantic Veterinary College, she is passionate about educating clients, offering tips on trending destinations and the best times to book, ensuring travelers feel informed and empowered.

    [Dec 22, 2025]

    00:00 - Intro

    00:18 - Mike Holfeld Intro

    01:15 - Today's Guest: Christie Hudson

    02:04 - Dream Job

    03:04 - Air Hacks

    05:20 - AI Enhancements

    07:25 - Smart Hotels

    08:45 - The Human Touch

    11:34 - Comfort Tech

    14:06 - MasterClass Ad

    - https://www.masterclass.com/socialengineer

    15:40 - Rig Rundown

    17:41 - Finding Balance

    19:09 - Hotels Next Steps

    21:47 - Flight Deals

    25:46 - The Benefits

    27:01 - Practical Matters

    28:34 - My Favorite Places

    29:58 - Find Christie Hudson Online

    - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hotelsdotcom

    - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hotelsdotcom/

    30:28 - Wrap Up & Outro

    - www.social-engineer.com

    - www.innocentlivesfoundation.org

    Find us online:

    - Chris Hadnagy

    - Twitter: @humanhacker

    - LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy
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    31 minutos