The World of Intelligence

By Sean Corbett AVM (Retd)Technology

The World of Intelligence episodes

January 22 Iran’s Unrest, Decoded: Protests, Power, and the Nuclear Trajectory
Iran’s latest wave of protests—sparked by currency collapse and rapidly shifting into anti government unrest—has been forcefully suppressed by a highly layered security apparatus. In this episode, our hosts Sean Corbett and Cristina Varriale are joined by Lewis Smart, Principal Analyst from Country Intelligence's MENA team, cut through conflicting narratives to explain why the regime remains intact for now, how elite cohesion and information control has shaped events, and which indicators matter for future instability. They also examine external pressures, including sanctions and U.S. force posture, and assess how Iran’s nuclear ambitions intersect with domestic unrest to shape the country’s next moves.
42 min
January 05 Round up of 2025
Join hosts Sean Corbett and Cristina Varriale as they wrap up another great year for The World of Intelligence podcast. In this special episode, they look back on 19 thought-provoking discussions that explored global security trends, hard-to-reach intelligence targets, and the evolving role of open-source intelligence in modern analysis.
From North Korea’s opaque dynamics to NATO’s defence pledges, predictive intelligence models, and the rise of hybrid warfare, Sean and Cristina share their personal highlights and lessons learned. They also reveal what’s next for 2026, expect timely “shorts”, new studio recordings, and deep dives into China, Russia, Iran, forgotten conflicts, and cutting-edge technologies such as Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Whether you are an analyst, policymaker, or simply curious about how intelligence shapes global affairs, this episode offers a candid, insightful, and forward-looking conversation on tradecraft, technology, and the challenges ahead.
🎧 Listen now and discover why OSINT remains one of the most powerful tools in understanding today’s complex security landscape.
22 min
December 09, 2025 From data to decisions: The future of OSINT
Recorded live at DSEI 2025, this episode features host Kate Cox and a panel of Janes experts, Sean Corbett, Leendert Van Bochoven, and Phil Smith. They discuss the evolution of open-source intelligence (OSINT) and its vital role in global security. The panel examines the challenges posed by an overwhelming volume of data in the digital age and explores how artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation are transforming the collection, processing, and verification of open-source information and why the human analyst is more important than ever.

Watch the video of the recording on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8qE-hKSG5g
28 min
November 17, 2025 Fundamentals first: The case for foundational intelligence today
In this episode of The World of Intelligence, we delve into the critical importance of foundational intelligence in defense analysis. Hosted by Kate Cox, our panel of experts, including Sean Corbett, Dylan Lurkey, and Tom Barton from Janes, explores how foundational intelligence serves as the essential building blocks for effective military analysis. We discuss its role in understanding current intelligence, the intricacies of data verification, and the evolving landscape of technology and its impact on decision-making. Join us as we uncover why foundational intelligence remains indispensable in an era of rapidly changing security dynamics and how it can enhance operational effectiveness for defense professionals.
28 min
October 21, 2025 Knowledge to understanding and how to get there - part two
In the second part of our enlightening discussion on The World of Intelligence, host Harry Kemsley delves deeper into the intricate relationship between data tribalism and effective decision-making within military and intelligence frameworks. Joined by experts, we explore how human tribal instincts can hinder the integration of critical data across various sectors, ultimately impacting operational efficiency. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of building trust and collaboration among different units to harness the full potential of artificial intelligence and data analytics. As we navigate through the complexities of tradecraft and the evolving landscape of defense intelligence, listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies. Join us as we unpack the essential steps toward transforming knowledge into actionable understanding in the defense community.
32 min
October 14, 2025 Knowledge to understanding and how to get there - part one
In this first part of our episode titled "Knowledge to Understanding and How to Get There," I, Harry Kemsley, delve into the critical transition from data overload to clear, decisive action in military contexts. Joined by my co-host Sean Corbett and esteemed guest Lieutenant General (Ret.) Mike Growen, we explore the challenges of navigating an information-rich environment. We discuss the necessity of elevating human cognition above mere data collection, emphasizing the role of technology and AI as facilitators of understanding rather than replacements for human judgment. As we unpack the complexities of decision-making and the cultural barriers within military structures, we lay the groundwork for how to harness these advancements for strategic advantage. Join us for this engaging discussion that sets the stage for our upcoming second part.
37 min
September 23, 2025 China's growing influence in the Pacific
In this episode of The World of Intelligence, I join esteemed co-host Sean Corbett and expert guests Dr. Greg Brown and Claire Chu to explore China's expanding influence in the Pacific. We discuss the strategic significance of the region, examining China's diplomatic, economic, and military activities. The conversation delves into the implications of China's actions for international security, the complexities of local responses, and the role of open-source intelligence in analyzing these dynamics. We highlight the shifting geopolitical landscape, the importance of understanding local interests, and the ongoing competition between great powers in this vital area. Tune in for an insightful analysis of the evolving power dynamics in the Pacific.
40 min
September 02, 2025 OSINT and the changing character of warfare
Dr. Philip Ritcheson, Vice President for Strategy and Growth, National Security Sector, Leidos returns to Janes podcast to join Harry Kemsley and Sean Corbett to unpack the complexities of modern deterrence, the acceleration of technological change impacting warfare, and the critical role of open-source intelligence. They take a deep dive into how these elements are reshaping global security dynamics and explore the implications for intelligence and defence strategies.

For comments and suggestions for future podcasts email: [email protected].

The views expressed in this podcast are those of the author alone.
45 min
August 12, 2025 US-Mexico border security
In this episode of The World of Intelligence, I delve into the complex dynamics of US-Mexico border security, focusing on the escalating threat posed by serious and organized crime. Joined by analysts Matt Henman and Estefania Dominguez, we explore the internal security challenges Mexico faces and the implications for U.S. national security. We discuss the evolving tactics of organized crime groups, including their increasing use of technology such as drones, and how these developments impact border security strategies. Our conversation highlights the vital role of open-source intelligence in understanding these trends and the necessity of verifying information in a landscape rife with misinformation. Tune in for an insightful analysis of how these issues shape the broader security landscape.
39 min
July 22, 2025 Assessing NATO's funding commitment
In this episode of The World of Intelligence, I, Harry Kemsley, alongside my co-host Sean Corbett, delve into NATO's recent funding commitments, particularly the ambitious target of 5% of GDP for defense spending. We explore the implications of this target, dissecting the implications of NATO's summit declaration and how nations plan to achieve these goals amidst varying political landscapes. Our discussion features insights from Janes experts Andrew MacDonald and Guy Anderson as they analyze the real, behind-the-scenes impact of budgetary commitments, the potential for "creative accounting," and the long-term consequences for defense capabilities. Join us as we uncover the truth behind NATO's funding strategies and what it means for military readiness in a changing global security environment.
47 min