Open Secret - The power of open-source intelligence

In this episode… In this final episode of Season 2, hosts Jane van Tienen and Kylie Pert reflect on the evolving landscape of OSINT, exploring the people, principles and purpose behind the practice. They discuss the craft of OSINT, the importance of judgment and ethical rigor, and the leadership required to transform open-source information into actionable intelligence that decision-makers can tru...

In this episode... Open-source intelligence goes beyond tools and techniques—it’s about making ethical decisions and understanding the real-world impact of information. In this episode, Olivia Pirie-Griffiths, Non-Executive Director at the Alliance for Journalists’ Freedom and former Director of Impact and Engagement at the Centre for Information Resilience, explores how OSINT intersects with jour...

In this episode... Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential for OSINT teams to thrive. In this episode, Jane and special guest host Kat Caudrelier explore how embracing diversity can transform intelligence work. They delve into how diverse thinking, communication styles and life experiences enrich analysis, improve decision-making and drive better outcomes. Joining the conversation are Micah...

In this episode... OSINT’s true strength lies in the people who drive it. Built on collaboration, curiosity and innovation, the OSINT community thrives as a global network where practitioners continuously push the boundaries of what’s possible. Ritu Gill is at the heart of this community. As a leading OSINT analyst, educator, and President of the OSMOSIS Association, Ritu fosters collaboration and...

In this episode... When it comes to leadership in intelligence, adaptability is key—and Brigadier General (Ret.) Terry Bullard has seen this firsthand throughout his career. From commanding the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations to now helping national security leaders harness the power of open-source intelligence (OSINT) in the private sector, Terry has witnessed the profound shift i...

In this episode... Art crime isn’t just the stuff of Hollywood thrillers—it’s a real-world problem where stolen masterpieces and looted antiquities are being trafficked across the far-reaches of the globe with devastating consequences. Tim Carpenter, a retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent and former head of the FBI’s Art Crime Team, has spent his career recovering stolen treasures, investigating...

The secret's out—and it's only getting better. Open Secret is back with a brand-new season, packed with bold conversations, unexpected angles, and powerful stories that explore the evolving role of open-source intelligence in our world.  From leadership and art crime to social impacts and curating history in real time, Season 2 brings you fresh perspectives and practical insights from some of...

This season we’ve explored open-source intelligence across a broad spectrum – we’ve heard how it’s applied in banking, pharmaceutical companies, journalism and more. We’ve delved into the importance of creativity, communication and tradecraft in OSINT. While interviewing leading OSINT minds Cameron Mitchell, Alisa Gbiorczyk, Gordon Farrer, Nikki Rutman and Gus Kangas, hosts Jane and Kylie have sol...

Gus Kangas has an innovative approach to getting the most out of intelligence teams – pairing them with creative types. With experience as a child actor, on Broadway, and then as an intelligence officer, Gus recognises the strength that comes from both groups of people.  Listen to find out why Gus wants more divergent thinkers in the room, how it affects intelligence teams’ outputs, and why n...

In this episode of Open Secret, we speak to Nikki Rutman. Nikki honed her intelligence skills in government over two decades, including with the Federal Bureau of Intelligence (FBI), then turned her sights to the pharmaceutical industry. But it isn't easy building an intelligence capability from scratch!  Her secret weapon? Good OSINT analysts. Nikki says the ideal intelligence professio...

Gordon Farrer had an interesting introduction to open-source intelligence. As a career journalist and checker of facts, he believes whole-heartedly in producing content that is credible, truthful and backed by rigorous methodology.  Luckily for Australia’s young journalistic minds, Gordon is also passionate about education, and teaches a subject on fact checking and verification at RMIT. He w...

Content Warning. This episode of Open Secret contains references to themes of human trafficking, sex trafficking, sexual exploitation of children, abuse, and violence which some individuals may find distressing.   Alisa Gbiorczyk is an indomitable figure in the counter-human trafficking world. A self-described “hunter”, she has dedicated her life to tracking down perpetrators and working with...

At a time when governments are increasingly prosecuting foreign policy through businesses, Cameron Mitchell says his OSINT skills translate perfectly into his current role as Head of Geopolitical Risk for ANZ.  In this episode of the podcast Cameron explains that he can’t predict the future, but he can help the bank to proactively manage future risk and remain compliant amid geopolitical unce...

Have you ever wondered what open-source intelligence is? How it can be used to inform strategic decision-making? Or make powerful change? Well, you’re not alone.  Join hosts Kylie Pert and Jane van Tienen as they ask guests, Cameron Mitchell, Alisa Gbiorczyk, Gordon Farrer, Nikki Rutman and Gus Kangas to share their insights about the impact of open-source intelligence on our world.