Madeline Sedgwick — Cyber Threat Analyst at Palo Alto Networks and a DUUUUVALLL lifer

No Password Required Season 7: Episode 5 – Madeline Sedgwick

Madeline Sedgwick is a Cyber threat Researcher and Threat Analyst at Palo Alto Networks Unit 42, specializing in nation-state cyber activity, covert infrastructure, and cyber intelligence analysis. Before entering the private sector, she spent six years in the U.S. Navy as an intelligence specialist, helping support some of the earliest cyber operations under United States Cyber Command.

In this episode, Madeline shares her journey from joining the Navy to becoming one of the first certified cyber targeteers supporting offensive cyber operations. She discusses the realities of tracking covert threat actor infrastructure, why defenders must understand adversary behavior beyond alerts and signatures, and how intelligence analysis helps uncover the bigger picture behind cyber campaigns.


Jack Clabby and co-host Sarina Gandy talk with Madeline about fusion analysis, cyber warfare, leadership, and the challenges of translating highly technical investigations into actionable insights for government and industry leaders. She also reflects on the importance of humility in leadership, mentoring, and learning to navigate high-pressure situations with confidence and curiosity.


In the Lifestyle Polygraph, Madeline debates cybersecurity in the Star Wars universe, explains her Weird Al Yankovic Dragon Con costume, reflects on her time playing bass in a metal band, and proudly shares why Jacksonville, Florida, will always be home.

Follow Madeline on Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mesedgwick/

Chapters:

02:10 Intro-Madeline Sedgwick

09:00 The Role of Cybersecurity in National Security

12:08 Understanding Covert Networks and Threat Intelligence

14:52 Fusion Analysis in Cybersecurity

18:04 The Importance of Distinguishing Threats

20:52 Challenges in Cybersecurity Response

23:58 Briefing Decision Makers on Cyber Threats

27:52 Understanding Adversary Intent and Risk Communication

30:12 Leadership Lessons from the Navy

34:33 The Importance of Mentorship in Career Development

37:30 The Lifestyle Polygraph: A Fun Twist on Cybersecurity

41:04 Embracing Creativity and Personal Expression

45:50 Pride in Roots: The Jacksonville Connection