NeedleStack

An OSINT Arabic instructor and geopolitical risk expert joins the show to discuss what can get lost in translation when performing OSINT investigations. Plus learn how cultural knowledge can unlock key insights.About Paolo WalcherPaolo Walcher is a leading OSINT trainer and security consultant, recognized for his expertise in Arabic-language investigations, geopolitical risk, and strategic intelligence. With a background in counterterrorism and crisis management, Paolo delivers advanced OSINT training to law enforcement, military, and intelligence agencies on both national and international levels.At i-intelligence GmbH, he equips private and governmental organizations with the tools to navigate complex security environments, specializing in Arabic OSINT and Middle East-focused research. Formerly a Security Business Intelligence Analyst at BMW Group, he provided strategic insights on global threats, including the war in Ukraine, supporting corporate decision-making and conflict monitoring.Paolo holds a B.A. in Safety and Security Management and an M.Sc. in Crisis and Security Management from Leiden University, with a specialization in the Governance of Radicalism, Extremism, and Terrorism. His work spans illicit networks, military conflict analysis, and supply chain security. As a Bellingcat volunteer, he has contributed to civilian harm verification and human rights investigations—and continues to explore the full potential of OSINT as a force for accountability and justice in the human rights space.Fluent in English, German, and Italian, Paolo brings a cultural lens to OSINT, advocating for the ethical use of AI in intelligence gathering while emphasizing the enduring value of human-led analysis. His passion for maritime OSINT, regional dynamics, and investigative training makes him a key voice in the future of open-source intelligence.

Ransomware groups continue to generate significant profits, frequently relying on recycled or leaked code—leading researchers to describe them as “lazy.” OSINT analysts follow cryptocurrency transactions to trace financial trails, while effective defense depends on early detection, system-level visibility, and staying alert to shifts in attacker techniques.

Discover how AI is revolutionizing OSINT, from speeding up data collection to generating comprehensive reports, while also addressing the challenges and ethical considerations. Hosts AJ and Robert dive deep with Lance James, discussing real-world insights and the potential for misuse.

A librarian and an OSINT analyst may have more in common than you realize. That’s how Tracy Maleeff found her way into cyber and made a name as InfoSec Sherpa.

From government to private enterprise, counterintelligence can unlock big benefits in cybersecurity. We sit down with a counterintelligence professional to define the practice, and how everyone can benefit by employing it.

Meet the new hosts of NeedleStack. Robert Vamosi is a CISSP and award-winning journalist. AJ Nash has two decades of experience in the Intelligence community. Together they will host new episodes of NeedleStack, with an array of amazing guests.

Jacob Lloyd, head of investigations at Animal Welfare Investigations Project, has been putting OSINT skills to use to stop organized animal crime — dogfights, puppy mills, badger baiting and more. Jacob discusses how these crimes are often neglected by law enforcement due to lack of training and are thus dealt with reactively. He explains how to leverage pedigree sites, social media and other online sources to proactively investigate animal crime and save animals from this horrible fate. Key takeawaysWhat pedigree sites can tell you about fighting dogs and their ownersHow prevalent information on organized animal crime is on the surface webHow to get involved with Animal Welfare Investigations Project

From influence operations and Telegram to using marketing tools for OSINT insights, our guest gives pro tips on OSINT and cyber investigations for professional practitioners.Key takeawaysDigital forensics incident responseCyberthreat and OSINT crossoverMarketing tools for OSINT

Cyber threat analyst Steven Harris explains why Telegram is crucial for investigating the war in Ukraine. Discusses Telegram's appeal to cyber threat actors. Highlights the significance of problem-solving skills in cyber investigations. Addresses the impact of foreign threat actors on elections.

Alex Lozano of Cybergy joins us to discuss how he uses OSINT and social media to protect executive clients, resources for his cyber students at University of Barcelona and the best tools for real-time monitoring.Key takeawaysHow to use OSINT for executive protectionResources for students and OSINT newbiesTools for real-time monitoring