In this episode of the Intelligence Spotlight series, Jenna Dolecek delves into the evolving landscape of open source intelligence (OSINT) and its growing relevance in human rights investigations. Drawing on over a decade of experience, she reflects on the ethical dilemmas, the influence of artificial intelligence, and widespread misconceptions that continue to shape the field. Jenna joins Qais Alamdar in a wide-ranging conversation that explores the discipline’s demands — from the emotional toll of secondary trauma to the practical realities of verifying content in complex environments.

Together, they unpack the balance between speed and accuracy, the pitfalls of bias, and the quiet power of patience in OSINT work. From the misuse of terminology to the critical role of tools like reverse image search, this episode offers both a sharp critique and a grounded look at the investigative process, including the often-ignored crisis of missing Indigenous people in North America and the urgent need for support systems for those on the frontlines of digital investigations.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Open Source Intelligence and Jena Dolecek

03:07 The Role of OSINT in Legal Accountability

05:58 Ethics in Open Source Investigations

08:50 Navigating Trauma in Investigative Work

11:48 AI's Impact on OSINT

14:56 Misconceptions in Open Source Intelligence

17:59 Terminology and Definitions in OSINT

25:16 The Importance of Patience and Credibility in Investigations

26:10 Balancing Speed and Accuracy in Open Source Investigations

30:07 Understanding Bias and Its Impact on Investigative Work

32:30 Underrated Tools in OSINT: The Power of Reverse Image Search

37:20 Addressing the Epidemic of Missing Indigenous People

41:02 The Significance of Secondary Trauma Awareness

Note: We operate with no funding and completely voluntarily. If you can support us in any way or volunteer with us, please reach out at: intelfocus@protonmail.com

In this episode of the Intelligence Spotlight series, Qais Alamdar and Alicia Alamillos delve into the complexities of conflict reporting. They discuss the critical role of journalists in war zones, the ethical dilemmas they face, and the importance of storytelling in conveying the human experience of conflict. Alicia shares her personal experiences from the field, highlighting the challenges of navigating disinformation and the impact of her field experience on her editorial decisions. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of journalism and offers valuable advice for aspiring journalists.

Chapters

00:00 The Reality of Conflict Reporting

03:34 Alicia Alamillos: A Journey Through Conflict Zones

08:38 The Importance of Context in Storytelling

11:51 Ethical Dilemmas in Conflict Journalism

18:08 Navigating Disinformation and Propaganda

21:00 The Crisis of Trust in Journalism

24:04 Challenges of Reporting in Conflict Zones

26:46 The Role of OSINT in Modern Journalism

28:37 Field Experience Shaping Editorial Decisions

35:18 Navigating the Future of Journalism

In this episode of The Intelligence Spotlight, Qais Alamdar hosts Ambassador Mahmoud Saikal, Afghanistan’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Affairs. From his early dream of becoming an architect to navigating the highest corridors of diplomacy, Ambassador Saikal shares personal reflections and political insights that cut through the noise. The conversation spans the meaning of soft power in a post-conflict state, the Afghan diaspora’s fragmented efforts, the enablers of effective diplomacy, and the painful lessons of missed opportunities during the Republic era. Saikal underscores the need for strategic resistance, internal legitimacy, and a sober review of the past 20 years to avoid repeating old mistakes. Through calm conviction, he reminds us that Afghanistan’s future must be built through resistance and a commitment to governance, unity, and people-centred strategy.

The first virtual panel of the Intelligence Spotlight series features two distinguished guests from Italy and the UK. Guest speakers bio:Nick Vant is a UK Fact-Checking Producer at Reuters Fact Check – Reuters news agency’s specialised fact-checking unit within its editorial department. He investigates cases of online mis- and disinformation with a focus on UK social media users. Before joining Reuters in mid-2023, Nick worked as a researcher on a range of global and social issues, including misinformation and media consumption habits.Leila Belhadj Mohamed is a freelance geopolitical journalist and board member of Privacy Network. She specialises in migration, human rights, digital rights, and the geopolitics of Africa and Southwest Asia. Leila is also a transfeminist activist, contributing to various podcasts and radio programs to discuss complex social issues. In this panel, both panellists shared their insights as journalists and fact-checker and also some important tips for everyone actively consuming news online.The panel was moderated by Qais Alamdar, founder of Intel Focus and OSINT analyst.

In this episode of the Intelligence Spotlight Series, hosted by Qais Alamdar, we are joined by Ben Heubl, an esteemed investigative journalist at Süddeutsche Zeitung. Ben delves into his journey with open source intelligence (OSINT) and how he utilizes these techniques to uncover critical stories on global security, human rights, and environmental issues.

From his early days at The Economist and Financial Times to his current role in Germany, Ben shares insights into the evolving field of OSINT, the ethical principles guiding investigations, and the tools and methodologies that drive successful journalism.

Join us for an insightful conversation on the power of OSINT in modern investigative reporting.

In this episode of the Intelligence Spotlight Series, host Qais Alamdar welcomes Faissal Sharif, a neuroscientist at the University of Oxford. Faissal discusses his journey into neuroscience, his work on neurotechnology's role in mental health, and the platform he co-founded for BIPOC communities. The conversation delves into cognitive biases, the effects of stress and anxiety on decision-making, and the ethical implications of emerging neurotechnologies. Join us for a deep dive into how neuroscience can bridge science, society, and digital health.

In this episode of the Intelligence Spotlight series, Qais Alamdar welcomes Sarah Adams, a renowned national security expert and former CIA targeting officer. Join us as Sarah delves into her extensive career in counterterrorism focusing on the Taliban, Afghanistan, and Al Qaeda. She provides insights into her role in the CIA, the intricacies of targeting operations, and the importance of open-source intelligence. Sarah also discusses the complex dynamics in Afghanistan post-Taliban takeover, the roles of various global players, and the intertwined relationships of militant groups in the region. Gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing evolving threats and the strategic responses needed to combat them. Don't miss this enlightening discussion with one of the leading minds in national security.

In this episode of the Intelligence Spotlight Series, host Qais Alamdar interviews Neus Vidal Martí, Executive Director of the Seek Initiative, journalist, and political scientist. Neus shares her career journey from investigative journalism to leading an organisation that empowers citizen journalists and grassroots investigators. She discusses the importance of access to information, media freedom, and the public interest, providing practical tips for aspiring investigators. Neus also highlights the challenges of maintaining credibility and ethics in grassroots investigations and calls for greater harmonisation of Freedom of Information laws in Europe.