The Social-Engineer Podcast

Social-Engineer, LLC
  • 4.5 (149)
  • SOCIAL SCIENCES
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

The Social-Engineer Podcast is about humans. Understanding how we interact, communicate and relay information can help us protect, mitigate and understand social engineering attacks

  1. MAR 16

    Ep. 343 - The Human Element Series - Spark Your Mental Fitness with Todd Bertsch

    Today we are joined by Todd Bertsch. Todd is a keynote speaker, mental fitness coach, and creator of the Spark Framework—a system rooted in neuroscience and behavioral psychology that focuses on building resilience, leadership clarity, and sustainable personal growth through small, consistent changes. After overcoming early struggles with addiction and pivoting from entrepreneurship into coaching during the COVID pandemic, Todd now helps leaders strengthen their "mental muscle" by identifying negative thought patterns and shifting into a more constructive, resilient mindset.   [March 16, 2026]  00:00 – Intro  00:26 - 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/    01:27 - Todd Bertsch Intro  02:39 - Todd's Origin Story  05:47 - Trauma and the Spark  08:30 - COVID Pivot to Coaching  10:58 - Mental Fitness for Leaders  14:37 - The Spark Framework Explained  17:04 - Curiosity and Burnout  18:37 - Small Steps, Big Change  19:35 - Protein-First Plan  20:09 - Weightloss Breakthrough  21:02 - Micro-Changes for Lifestyle  21:54 - Atomic Habits and Momentum  23:44 - Accountability and Coaching  24:08 - One Inch Wins Story  24:48 - Patience, Gratitude, and the Journey  28:34 - Connect with Todd and Book Picks  https://www.toddbertsch.com/   https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddmbertsch/   https://www.instagram.com/theboltwithtoddb/   Recommended Books:  The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey  The Go-Giver – Bob Burg & John David Mann  32:12 - Mentors and Closing

    35 min

  2. MAR 2

    Ep. 342 - The Doctor Is In Series - How Does Decision Fatigue Affect You?

    Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Doctor Is In Series – where we discuss understandings and developments in the field of psychology.  In today's episode, Chris and Dr. Abbie discuss decision fatigue—how making too many choices throughout the day drains mental energy and affects judgment. They explain how stress and lack of sleep make it worse, how it differs from burnout, and why leaders and parents are especially vulnerable. The episode also shares simple, practical strategies to reduce daily decisions, protect mental energy, and prioritize recovery.  [Mar 2, 2026]  00:00 - Intro  00:56 - Show Updates and Sponsors  02:35 - What Decision Fatigue Is  03:34 - Stress, Sleep, and Mental Energy  05:12 - Mental vs. Physical Limits  07:13 - Decision Fatigue vs. Burnout  10:22 - Leadership, Empathy, and Hard Decisions  14:33 - Prevention: Routines and Breaks  20:43 - Advisors and AI Caution  24:38 - Everyday Life and Parenting Load  27:23 - Recovery Outlets and Wrap-Up  28:49 - Closing and Next Month's Topic (Diet Culture)    Find us online:    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-abbie-maroño-phd    Instagram: @DoctorAbbieofficial    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy    References:   Baumeister, R. F., Bratslavsky, E., Muraven, M., & Tice, D. M. (1998). Ego depletion: Is the active self a limited resource? Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 74(5), 1252–1265. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.74.5.1252   Baumeister, R. F., & Tierney, J. (2011). Willpower: Rediscovering the greatest human strength. Penguin Press.   Danziger, S., Levav, J., & Avnaim-Pesso, L. (2011). Extraneous factors in judicial decisions. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 108(17), 6889–6892. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1018033108   Davidson, R. J., & McEwen, B. S. (2012). Social influences on neuroplasticity: Stress and interventions to promote well-being. Nature Neuroscience, 15(5), 689–695. https://doi.org/10.1038/nn.3093   Fleming, S. M., & Dolan, R. J. (2012). The neural basis of metacognitive ability. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 367(1594), 1338–1349. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2011.0417   Hagger, M. S., Wood, C., Stiff, C., & Chatzisarantis, N. L. D. (2010). Ego depletion and the strength model of self-control: A meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 136(4), 495–525. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0019486   Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, fast and slow. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

    30 min

  3. FEB 16

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

    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

    22 min

  4. FEB 9

    Ep. 340 - The Human Element Series - Is AI Changing Human Behavior with Jacob Ward

    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

    38 min

  5. FEB 2

    Ep. 339 - The Doctor Is In Series - Are You An Imposter?

    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

    31 min

  6. JAN 26

    Ep 338 - The 4th Monday Series - Playing Chess With Your Taxes

    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

    29 min

  7. JAN 19

    Ep. 337 - Security Awareness Series - Using Social Engineering on Yourself with Rosa Rowles

    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

    31 min

  8. JAN 12

    Ep. 336 - Human Element Series - Helping Successful Leaders with Mitchell Osmond

    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

    37 min
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4.5
out of 5
149 Ratings

About

The Social-Engineer Podcast is about humans. Understanding how we interact, communicate and relay information can help us protect, mitigate and understand social engineering attacks

Information

  • Creator
    Social-Engineer, LLC
  • Years Active
    2009 - 2026
  • Episodes
    200
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023 Social-Engineer, LLC
  • Show Website
    The Social-Engineer Podcast

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