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