Secrets and Spies Podcast: Espionage | Global Issues | Current Affairs Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts. Tune in for balanced, critical perspectives that will expand your understanding of our uncertain world, deciphering the most enigmatic professions, ideologies, and organizations that shape the global landscape.

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Our Hosts

Host Chris Carr, driven by a teenage encounter with former KGB officer Oleg Gordievsky, brings a unique authenticity to the podcast. His deep-seated fascination with espionage is evident in his highly acclaimed short spy film The Dry Cleaner, available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime. Currently developing feature film and television scripts inspired by the podcast's themes, Chris aims to create realistic and compelling spy dramas.

Joining him is Matt Fulton, a novelist and screenwriter who draws inspiration from masters of the spy genre like John Le Carré, Tom Clancy, and Graham Greene. Author of the Active Measures series of globe-trotting geopolitical thrillers, Matt brings his decades of extensive research and narrative prowess to the podcast, offering listeners a front-row seat to the thrilling world of covert operations.
]]> https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ audioboom.com Sat, 11 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000 en https://audioboom.com/i/37283810.jpg Secrets and Spies Podcast: Espionage | Global Issues | Current Affairs https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ true Secrets & Spies secretsandspiespodcast@gmail.com cca9acc7-3915-5d40-bf0c-09ad72cc6437 Chris Carr / F & P LTD https://audioboom.com/channels/5038215.rss episodic S10 Ep39: Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks with Sean Wiswesser https://audioboom.com/posts/8887044 39 Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks with Sean Wiswesser 10 3698 false full

Sean Wiswesser spent three decades in the U.S. intelligence community, much of it running operations against Russia for the CIA. His new book, Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks, dissects of how the FSB, SVR, and GRU actually do their work: dead drops, signal sites, surveillance detection routes, and the street tradecraft that protected agents like Aldrich Ames and Robert Hanssen for years. Wiswesser explains why Russian services keep returning to Cold War–era methods, breaks down the operational differences between the SVR and GRU, and assesses elite units like Alpha, Vympel, and Spetsnaz whose mythology often outpaces their record. He also charts the sharp escalation in Russian sabotage across Europe, the mafia-like culture driving increasingly reckless operations, and Moscow's use of AI-enhanced active measures to deepen division in Western democracies.

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Order Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks: https://www.usni.org/press/books/tradecraft-tactics-and-dirty-tricks

Connect with Sean on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-wiswesser-a86603133/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD: https://filmsandpodcasts.co.uk/

Music by Andrew R. Bird

Photo by Dmitry Astakhov / REX

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 11 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-04-10:/posts/8887044 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep38: Inside the New Apostolic Reformation: Faith, Power, and American Politics with Pastor Louis Florio https://audioboom.com/posts/8882842 38 Inside the New Apostolic Reformation: Faith, Power, and American Politics with Pastor Louis Florio 10 6026 false full

Pastor Louis Florio—Lutheran pastor, former military intelligence officer, and police chaplain in Virginia—joins Chris to explain the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR): what it actually is, where it came from, and why it matters beyond the pews. Florio traces the movement's roots in the mid-20th-century Latter Rain revival, unpacks its core doctrines of dominionism and post-millennialism, and explains how its network of self-proclaimed apostles and prophets has embedded itself inside American evangelical politics largely without recognition. The conversation covers the five-fold ministry structure, NAR's proprietary Bible translation, its links to Christian nationalism, cult-like abuse dynamics, and the theological distance between NAR and mainstream Christianity. Florio also offers practical guidance for families navigating a loved one's radicalization, and closes with resources for listeners who want to track these movements.

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Follow Pastor Lou's Two Penny Blog at https://2-penny-blog.com/
Follow Pastor Lou's police-related blog, Midnights LEO: https://midnightsleo.com/
Follow Pastor Lou's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lou-florio-04475232/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD: https://filmsandpodcasts.co.uk/
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Win McNamee/Getty

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Pastor Louis Florio—Lutheran pastor, former military intelligence officer, and police chaplain in Virginia—joins Chris to explain the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR): what it actually is, where it came from, and why it matters beyond the pews. Sat, 04 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-04-03:/posts/8882842 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep37: Espresso Martini | Boots in Iran, Putin's War Plans, and China in Orbit https://audioboom.com/posts/8879972 37 Espresso Martini | Boots in Iran, Putin's War Plans, and China in Orbit 10 3978 true full

Chris and Matt are back for Espresso Martini. Nearly a month into Operation Epic Fury, Washington appears to be laying the groundwork for potential ground operations inside Iran—but the two options on the table, seizing Kharg Island or securing Tehran's enriched uranium stockpile, are both far harder to execute than advertised. They dig into what a nuclear material extraction would actually require, and what growing strain on U.S. interceptor stockpiles and carrier availability signals about the campaign's trajectory. Then, a deep dive into the Guardian's reconstruction of how CIA and MI6 accurately predicted Russia's 2022 invasion—and why no one listened—and what that intelligence failure says about the long-term costs of credibility. Finally, the Space Force's pivot toward offensive counter-space as China's satellite constellation surpasses 1,900 orbital assets.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Trump’s Next Decision: Whether to Retrieve Iran’s Nuclear Fuel, Whatever the Risk" by David E. Sanger | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/20/opinion/iran-nuclear-materials-war.html

"I Spent Two Decades Securing Nuclear Materials. Getting at Iran’s Would Not Be Easy." by Andrew Weber | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/17/us/politics/trump-iran-nuclear-fuel.html

"Special Ops To Get The Uranium" by Cheryl Rofer | Lawyers, Guns & Money: https://www.lawyersgunsmoneyblog.com/2026/03/special-ops-to-get-the-uranium

"What Boots On The Ground In Iran Could Entail, According To Former CENTCOM Commander" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/former-centcom-commander-on-what-u-s-boots-on-the-ground-in-iran-could-entail

"A war foretold: How the CIA and MI6 got hold of Putin’s Ukraine plans and why nobody believed them" by Shaun Walker | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2026/feb/20/a-war-foretold-cia-mi6-putin-ukraine-plans-russia

"China’s Growing Armada Of Spy Satellites Is Pushing Space Force To Go On The Offensive" by Joseph Trevithick & Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/space/chinas-growing-armada-of-spy-satellites-is-pushing-space-force-to-go-on-the-offensive

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD: https://filmsandpodcasts.co.uk/
Music by Andrew R. Bird
US Army Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Wallace

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 28 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-03-28:/posts/8879972 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep36: Inside the Bulgarian Spy Ring Trial with Trevor Barnes https://audioboom.com/posts/8875493 36 Inside the Bulgarian Spy Ring Trial with Trevor Barnes 10 5085 false full

Chris speaks with intelligence historian and journalist Trevor Barnes about the Bulgarian spy ring trial at the Old Bailey, one of the most significant espionage cases in the UK since the Cold War. Barnes attended the proceedings and walks Chris through how a network of Bulgarian nationals, allegedly directed remotely by fugitive Wirecard executive Jan Marsalek from Moscow, was tasked with surveilling journalists and dissidents across Europe — including Bellingcat investigator Christo Grozev — in operations that prosecutors suggested could have enabled kidnapping or assassination. The case cracked open after a US intelligence tip-off, was jointly handled by MI5 and the Met's Counter Terrorism Command, and ultimately turned on roughly 200,000 encrypted Telegram messages. Barnes unpacks what the trial revealed about Russia's growing reliance on proxy networks and criminal cut-outs in place of traditional deep-cover officers, and what it signals for Western counter-intelligence in an era of mounting state-sponsored threats.

Subscribe and share to stay ahead in the world of intelligence, global issues, and current affairs.

Read Trevor’s article about the trial: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/trevorwbarnes_britain-russia-bulgarian-activity-7440003523754459136-Pscm

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevorwbarnes/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD: https://filmsandpodcasts.co.uk/
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Getty, Metropolitan Police/AP

Special Thank you to Mark Vaile

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:11:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-03-18:/posts/8875493 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep35: How China Steals America’s Secrets with David Shedd & Andrew Badger https://audioboom.com/posts/8873928 35 How China Steals America’s Secrets with David Shedd & Andrew Badger 10 3649 false full

David Shedd served as acting director of the Defense Intelligence Agency; Andrew Badger is a former DIA case officer now teaching state-sponsored espionage at Oxford. Together they've written The Great Heist: China's Epic Campaign to Steal America's Secrets. Matt talks with them about how the Ministry of State Security evolved from a backwater service into what they argue is the world's most powerful intelligence agency; how Beijing replaced Cold War recruitment tradecraft with guanxi-based social obligation and what the authors call "crowd-sourced espionage"; how Made in China 2025 functioned as a national collection priority list driving theft across defense, tech, and critical infrastructure; and why Volt and Salt Typhoon represent not an espionage story but pre-positioning for war—with kill switches already embedded in America's power grid and telecommunications backbone.

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Order The Great Heist: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-great-heist-david-r-sheddandrew-badger

Connect with David and Andrew on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shedd-00a32bb5
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewbadger1

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD: https://filmsandpodcasts.co.uk/
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Shutterstock

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 14 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-03-13:/posts/8873928 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep34: Iran After Khamenei with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8870816 34 Iran After Khamenei with Phillip Smyth 10 5106 true full

Israel has killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The IRGC's senior leadership is decimated. The CIA is reportedly arming Kurdish opposition forces along the Iran-Iraq border. Phillip Smyth — one of the foremost experts on Iran's Shia proxy networks — joins Matt to make sense of what comes next: why Khamenei's succession is far more fraught than most analysis acknowledges; why the proliferation of "new" armed groups on the battlefield is largely a disinformation campaign run by established militias; the limits of a Kurdish covert action strategy; why a regime that survives under Khamenei’s son would look essentially identical to the one the Israelis just tried to destroy; and Smyth's warning about the apocalyptic messianic splinter groups that could emerge from the rubble of a collapsing theocracy.

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Follow Phillip on X/Twitter: https://x.com/PhillipSmyth
Connect with Phillip on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/phillipsmyth

Phllip’s work for The Washington Institute: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth

Phillip’s work for the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/authors/phillip-smyth/

Phllip’s work for The Washington Institute: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth

Phillip’s work for the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/authors/phillip-smyth/

“Inside the Operation That Killed Khamenei” by Anat Peled, Milàn Czerny, Dov Lieber & Anika Arora Seth | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/inside-the-operation-that-killed-khamenei-03eebbad

"How the Assault on Iran Unfolded" by David M. Halbfinger and Ronen Bergman | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/01/world/middleeast/iran-israel-strikes.html

"Trump Weighs Backing Militias to Dislodge Iran’s Regime" by Alexander War & Vera Bergenruen | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/iran-leadership-succession-b5c4118e

"Pro-American Kurdish Forces Are Preparing Possible Iran Incursion" by Erika Solomon, Julian E. Barnes, Christiaan Triebert, Parin Behrooz & Farnaz Fassihi | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/04/us/politics/kurds-trump-iran-war.html

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD: https://filmsandpodcasts.co.uk/
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Atta Kenare/AFP

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Phillip Smyth, one of the foremost experts on Iran's Shia proxy networks, joins Matt to break down what the death of Ayatollah Khamenei means for the regime, its militias, and the succession crisis now unfolding across the Middle East. Sat, 07 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-03-06:/posts/8870816 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep33: Plotters: The UK Terrorists Who Failed with Lizzie Dearden https://audioboom.com/posts/8867600 33 Plotters: The UK Terrorists Who Failed with Lizzie Dearden 10 3453 false full

In this conversation, Lizzie Dearden, a journalist specializing in terrorism reporting, shares her journey into the field, the writing of her book Plotters, and insights into the evolving landscape of terrorism in the UK. She discusses the emotional atmosphere of terrorism trials, the shift in threats post-2017, and the complexities of radicalization. Dearden highlights the challenges of public perception, the role of intelligence agencies, and the significance of case studies like Haroon Syed's. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on radicalization and the future of terrorism.

Subscribe and share to stay ahead in the world of intelligence, global issues, and current affairs.

Find more about Lizzie and her work: https://www.lizziedearden.com

Buy Plotters: https://www.waterstones.com/book/plotters/lizzie-dearden/9781805261636

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD: https://filmsandpodcasts.co.uk/

Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Guy Corbishley/Alamy

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 28 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-02-27:/posts/8867600 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep32: Ukraine’s Struggle, Four Years On with Ben Wittes https://audioboom.com/posts/8864125 32 Ukraine’s Struggle, Four Years On with Ben Wittes 10 4585 false full

Benjamin Wittes, editor-in-chief of Lawfare, joins Matt and Chris after spending two weeks traveling across Ukraine—from Kyiv to Kharkiv and Odesa—as the war enters its fourth year. What he describes is sobering. Cities that appear functional on the surface are living through freezing temperatures, rolling blackouts, nightly missile strikes, and the constant threat of drone attacks. Families endure shattered infrastructure and relentless uncertainty, while society strains to maintain some semblance of normal life. Ben reflects on the exhaustion and resilience of the Ukrainian people, the rapidly evolving drone war reshaping modern combat, and why Western audiences often misunderstand the reality on the ground. The conversation also examines Zelensky’s standing at home, skepticism around current peace efforts, and why Ukraine’s fight remains central to Europe’s future security.

This is an unfiltered look at a nation still holding the line.

Ben's "Project Batteries" has raised over $79,000 to put portable power stations in the hands of Ukrainians enduring the depths of winter without heat, water, or electricity amid Russian bombardment. If you'd like to help keep that number climbing, find his latest updates with Venmo/PayPal links below.

https://www.dogshirtdaily.com/p/de-iceing-in-krakow

Ben’s work with Lawfare: https://www.lawfaremedia.org/
Ben’s Substack, Dog Shirt Daily: https://www.dogshirtdaily.com/
Follow Ben on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/benjaminwittes.lawfaremedia.org

Ukrainian Aid Charities

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD: https://filmsandpodcasts.co.uk/
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 21 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-02-20:/posts/8864125 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep31: Jan Marsalek’s Spy Ring and a Telegram Trail to Moscow with Manuel Bewarder https://audioboom.com/posts/8861184 31 Jan Marsalek’s Spy Ring and a Telegram Trail to Moscow with Manuel Bewarder 10 4029 false full

In this episode, Chris speaks with German investigative journalist Manuel Bewarder about the Jan Marsalek spy network and the landmark UK trial that exposed it. They unpack how the former Wirecard executive allegedly directed a Bulgarian spy ring from Moscow, targeting journalists, dissidents, and even U.S. military facilities in Germany. Drawing on thousands of Telegram messages revealed in court, Manuel explains how the network operated, how close it came to violence, and what the case reveals about modern Russian espionage—from freelance-style proxy networks to sabotage plots and battlefield intelligence collection. They also explore ongoing investigations in Austria and Germany, and what Marsalek’s continued presence in Russia tells us about his ties to the Kremlin. 

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Find more about Manuel and his reporting on his website: https://manuelbewarder.com/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 14 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-02-13:/posts/8861184 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep30: Espresso Martini | Epstein’s Russian Espionage Ties and a World Out of Bounds https://audioboom.com/posts/8858233 30 Espresso Martini | Epstein’s Russian Espionage Ties and a World Out of Bounds 10 5173 false full

This week on Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt examine a set of stories pointing to a more volatile intelligence and political landscape. They unpack Poland’s investigation into whether Jeffrey Epstein functioned as a long-running collector of kompromat tied to Russian interests, and what the available evidence does — and does not — tell us about his relationship with Moscow. In Germany, the expulsion of a Russian military attaché and the arrest of an alleged spy accused of mapping defense and drone infrastructure highlight Berlin’s shift toward treating Russian intelligence activity as operational preparation for sabotage on NATO soil. The episode also explores mounting concerns around DNI Tulsi Gabbard, from the delayed handling of a highly sensitive whistleblower complaint to her unusual involvement in election-related investigations, raising questions about politicization and oversight. Chris and Matt then turn to Donald Trump’s Greenland brinkmanship, the role NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte played in defusing an alliance crisis, and why attempts to “sanewash” the episode risk lasting damage to transatlantic trust, before closing on the quiet but symbolic shuttering of the CIA’s World Factbook.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Jeffrey Epstein investigated for being a Russian spy" by David Charter | The Times: https://www.thetimes.com/world/europe/article/jeffrey-epstein-investigated-for-being-a-russian-spy-tpcplhvxp

"The Cesspool and Chaos: the Russian Connection in the Epstein Affair" by Françoise Thom | Russian Desk: https://desk-russie.info/2025/07/30/the-cesspool-and-chaos-the-russian-connection-in-the-epstein-affair.html

"Jeffrey Epstein’s Russian Connection: Billionaire's ties with FSB Academy graduate revealed" | Dossier Center: https://dossier.center/jeffreyepsteinrusconnect-en/

"Germany expels Russian diplomat over spying case" by Richard Connor | Deutsche Welle: https://www.dw.com/en/germany-expels-russian-diplomat-summons-ambassador-over-espionage-case/a-75609339

"Germany Arrests Five in Major Scheme to Smuggle Sanctioned Goods to Russia" by Dariia Mykhailenko | United24 Media: https://united24media.com/latest-news/germany-arrests-five-in-major-scheme-to-smuggle-sanctioned-goods-to-russia-15554

"Classified Whistleblower Complaint About Tulsi Gabbard Stalls Within Her Agency” by Dustin Volz and C. Ryan Barber | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/classified-whistleblower-complaint-about-tulsi-gabbard-stalls-within-her-agency-027f5331

"Intelligence watchdog shares whistleblower complaint involving Gabbard with Congress after monthslong delay" by Olivia Gazis, Michael Kaplan | CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/intelligence-watchdog-sensitive-whistleblower-complaint-congress-monthslong-delay/

"Tulsi Gabbard running solo 2020 election inquiry separate from FBI investigation" by Hugo Lowell | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/03/tulsi-gabbard-2020-election-investigation-ed

"Behind Trump's Greenland reversal, the crucial role of NATO chief Mark Rutte" by Anne-Françoise Hivert, Philippe Jacqué & Philippe Ricard | Le Monde: https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2026/01/22/behind-trump-s-greenland-reversal-the-crucial-role-of-nato-chief-mark-rutte_6749681_4.html

"What follows President Trump’s decision to step back from threatening to use force in Greenland?" by Elaine Kamarck | The Brookings Institution: https://www.brookings.edu/articles/what-follows-president-trump-decision-to-step-back-from-threatening-to-use-force-in-greenland/

"Spotlighting The World Factbook as We Bid a Fond Farewell" | Central Intelligence Agency: https://www.cia.gov/stories/story/spotlighting-the-world-factbook-as-we-bid-a-fond-farewell/

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]]> Sat, 07 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-02-06:/posts/8858233 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep29: How Russia Protects its Nuclear Submarines with Florian Flade https://audioboom.com/posts/8855158 29 How Russia Protects its Nuclear Submarines with Florian Flade 10 3641 false full

Investigative journalist Florian Flade returns to discuss Russia's Harmony Undersea Surveillance System, a project aimed at protecting its nuclear submarine fleet. Florian and Chris cover the international collaboration involved in Florian’s investigation, the strategic importance of the Harmony system, and the challenges of reporting on sensitive military topics. Florian also highlights the broader implications of Russia's military activities in the Arctic and the ongoing efforts to counteract Russian procurement networks for Western technology.

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Florian’s reporting discussed in the episode

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 31 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-01-30:/posts/8855158 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep28: Global Security in 2026: Conflict, Cyber, and the End of Unipolarity with Sam Lichtenstein https://audioboom.com/posts/8844382 28 Global Security in 2026: Conflict, Cyber, and the End of Unipolarity with Sam Lichtenstein 10 4367 false full

In this comprehensive discussion, Sam Lichtenstein from RANE (Risk Assistance Network & Exchange) joins Chris to dissect their annual geopolitical and security forecast. Sam provides insights into the geopolitical landscape for 2026, highlighting the challenges of predicting human behavior, the rise of violent conflicts, and the implications of AI and cybersecurity threats. They cover regional dynamics in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these issues and the potential for political violence in the US. Sam also discusses the breakdown of the unipolar order and its impact on global security.

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Read RANE’s 2026 Annual Forecast: https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/2026-annual-forecast

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 24 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-01-24:/posts/8844382 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep27: Trump, Greenland, and an Alliance in Crisis with Shane Harris https://audioboom.com/posts/8835914 27 Trump, Greenland, and an Alliance in Crisis with Shane Harris 10 3604 false full

Shane Harris joins Matt to discuss his latest reporting for The Atlantic on one of the most destabilizing ideas circulating inside the Trump administration: the U.S. acquisition of Greenland. Shane explains how an idea once dismissed as a punchline is now being treated by U.S. and European officials as a real contingency, and why Denmark and Greenland view it as an existential threat. They examine how the proposal took shape inside Trump’s orbit, why political and intelligence pressure campaigns may already be backfiring, and what unilateral action—by force or fiat—would mean for NATO and the future of the transatlantic alliance.

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Read Shane’s reporting on Greenland with Isaac Stanley-Becker and Jonathan Lemire: https://www.theatlantic.com/national-security/2026/01/greenland-trump-venezuela-nato/685511/

Read Shane’s other work at The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/author/shane-harris/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Guglielmo Mangiapane/Reuters

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sat, 17 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-01-16:/posts/8835914 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep26: Inside Operation Absolute Resolve with Jack Murphy https://audioboom.com/posts/8834425 26 Inside Operation Absolute Resolve with Jack Murphy 10 3220 false full

In this conversation, Jack Murphy discusses his military background and transition into journalism, focusing on his reporting of Operation Absolute Resolve. He shares insights into the planning and execution of the operation, the legal and strategic implications, and the broader context of U.S. foreign policy. Murphy emphasizes the importance of understanding the consequences of military actions and the need for caution in future operations.

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Read Jack’s reporting on the raid for The High Side: https://thehighside.substack.com/p/bold-delta-force-raid-leads-to-capture

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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DoD Photo by Airman 1st Class Isabel Tanner

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Wed, 14 Jan 2026 20:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-01-14:/posts/8834425 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep25: Espresso Martini | Maduro’s Capture, America’s Role Abroad, and Aldrich Ames’ Infamy https://audioboom.com/posts/8828604 25 Espresso Martini | Maduro’s Capture, America’s Role Abroad, and Aldrich Ames’ Infamy 10 4610 false full

The U.S. capture of Venezuelan strongman Nicolás Maduro marks one of the most consequential unilateral actions Washington has taken in the Western Hemisphere in decades. Chris and Matt unpack what actually happened, why it matters, and how this operation tests long-standing assumptions about sovereignty, precedent, and America’s role abroad—especially in a world where rivals are watching closely. They then turn to the death of Aldrich Ames, reflecting on how the CIA’s most damaging traitor reshaped U.S. intelligence, shattered trust from the inside, and still serves as a cautionary tale about institutional blind spots, complacency, and the enduring cost of betrayal.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Bold Delta Force raid leads to capture and arrest of Maduro" by Jack Murphy | The High Side: https://thehighside.substack.com/p/bold-delta-force-raid-leads-to-capture

"A Close Call for US Commandos and an Emboldened Trump" by Eric Schmitt, Greg Jaffe | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/07/us/politics/trump-venezuela-helicopter.html

"Trump’s ‘American Dominance’ May Leave Us With Nothing" by Anne Applebaum | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/2026/01/trumps-american-dominance-may-leave-us-with-nothing/685503/

"Trump's seizure of Maduro raises thorny legal questions" by Kayla Epstein | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr4krkz7242o

DOJ Indictment of Maduro: https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1422326/dl

"Aldrich Ames, C.I.A. Turncoat Who Helped the Soviets, Dies at 84" by Tim Weiner | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/06/obituaries/aldrich-ames-dead.html

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Adam Gray/Reuters

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

]]> Sun, 11 Jan 2026 16:55:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2026-01-11:/posts/8828604 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep24: From CIA to CEO with Rupal Patel https://audioboom.com/posts/8819067 24 From CIA to CEO with Rupal Patel 10 3616 false full Former CIA analyst-turned-entrepreneur Rupal Patel joins Chris for a candid conversation about reinvention, resilience, and what it takes to build a life that actually fits. Rupal talks about identity shifts after leaving the intelligence world, why self-reflection matters more than motivation, and how community can make or break big transitions. She shares practical frameworks she uses with clients—including her unique approach to time management—and introduces the idea of “tactical ignorance”: cutting through noise, protecting your mental bandwidth, and focusing on what truly moves the needle. Rupal’s definition of success is simple, and tougher than it sounds: liking who you are.

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Learn more about Rupal: https://www.rupalypatel.com

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photo by Rupal Patel & CIA

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 03 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-12-15:/posts/8819067 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep23: Watching Putin's Shadow Fleet with Remy Osman https://audioboom.com/posts/8819066 23 Watching Putin's Shadow Fleet with Remy Osman 10 3483 false full Remy Osman joins Chris to unpack the strange, high-stakes world of Putin’s “shadow fleet”—the tankers and ghost ships helping Russia move oil and dodge sanctions. Remy traces how he got into ship-spotting during quarantine in Singapore, then explains how open-source sleuths identify suspicious vessels: “zombie” identities, odd tracking behavior, evasive paperwork, and patterns that don’t match legitimate trade. They dig into why Singapore sits at the center of global maritime traffic, what makes these aging tankers an environmental time bomb, and why enforcement is so legally and politically messy even when everyone can see what’s happening in plain sight.

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Follow Remy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sgshipspotting

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 27 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-12-15:/posts/8819066 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep22: John le Carré and the Russian Mafia with Federico Varese https://audioboom.com/posts/8819064 22 John le Carré and the Russian Mafia with Federico Varese 10 4150 false full Criminologist Federico Varese joins Chris to talk John le Carré—David Cornwell—and what his fiction got right about power, corruption, and the criminal underside of the modern Russian state. Varese, a co-curator of Oxford’s Tradecraft exhibition at the Bodleian, shares how he first met Cornwell in the early 1990s and later advised him on Our Game and Our Kind of Traitor, drawing directly on his research into Russian organized crime. From there, Varese unpacks the post-Soviet trajectory he traces in Russia in Four Criminals—how “free markets” without a strong rule-of-law state produced predation, oligarchic capture, and ultimately what he calls a “mafia state,” where independent organized crime is squeezed out by a system that fuses political and economic power. The conversation also gets into how Russian security services use criminals for deniable operations abroad and how cybercrime functions as a tolerated ecosystem—until the state needs it—turning hackers into a ready-made tool of hybrid warfare.

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Learn more about Federico and his work: https://federicovarese.com

Order Russia in Four Criminals: https://www.politybooks.com/bookdetail?book_slug=russia-in-four-criminals--9781509563609

Visit the Bodleian Libaries’ John le Carré: Tradecraft exhibition: https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/lecarre

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photo by Bodleian Libraries & Federico Varese

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 24 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-12-15:/posts/8819064 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep21: Myths and Realities of Russian Intelligence with John Sipher https://audioboom.com/posts/8819063 21 Myths and Realities of Russian Intelligence with John Sipher 10 4197 false full Former senior CIA officer John Sipher joins Chris to break down what Western audiences get wrong about Russian intelligence—starting with what it’s actually like to operate inside one of the world’s most hostile counterintelligence environments. Sipher explains the KGB-to-Putin throughline, why Moscow treats intelligence as a frontline tool of regime survival, and how “active measures” and reflexive control shape Russia’s political warfare abroad. He also pushes back on myths of intelligence work, digs into how the West misread Russia’s strength and Ukraine’s will to fight, and lays out what containment—and a post-Putin future—might realistically look like. The conversation closes with a sharp look at disinformation, conspiracy culture, and why Hollywood keeps getting espionage wrong.

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More about John and Spycraft Entertainment: https://spycraftentertainment.com/john-sipher

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photo by Spycraft Entertainment

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 20 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-12-15:/posts/8819063 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep20: Espionage and Drug Trafficking: The Life of Harold Derber with David Tuch https://audioboom.com/posts/8819062 20 Espionage and Drug Trafficking: The Life of Harold Derber with David Tuch 10 3531 false full David Tuch, author of The Wireless Operator, joins Chris to tell the stranger-than-fiction story of Harold Derber—a wartime wireless operator who later ran blockade-busting weapons to Israel before reinventing marijuana smuggling in the 1970s. David explains how a loophole created by the 1970 Controlled Substances Act briefly made it legal to hold drugs in international waters—and how Derber exploited it with a “mothership” fleet, offloading tons of marijuana at sea. They break down why Deber’s flagship, the Night Train, became law enforcement’s obsession, built on counter-surveillance and tradecraft designed to keep informants out. The conversation then moves into Miami and Wall Street—money laundering, the Gambinos, and First Jersey Securities—alongside Derber’s documented ties to Cuban intelligence.

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Learn more about David and his work: https://davidtuch.com

Order The Wireless Operator: https://www.iconbooks.com/ib-title/the-wireless-operator/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by David Tuch, Ted Akey, Wolfson Archives & Icon Books

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 07:53:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-12-15:/posts/8819062 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep19: The Fourth Intelligence Revolution with Anthony Vinci https://audioboom.com/posts/8818567 19 The Fourth Intelligence Revolution with Anthony Vinci 10 3306 false full Former chief technology officer of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Dr. Anthony Vinci, joins Matt to explain why intelligence has broken out of the classified world—and why everyday citizens are now on the front lines. Anthony walks through three past “intelligence revolutions” and argues we’ve entered a fourth, driven by China and AI: intelligence expanding beyond war and politics into economics and tech, a “whole-of-society” competition that pulls in companies and universities, and a shift from targeting governments to targeting entire populations. They discuss “inanity of evil” disinformation operations, China’s push toward a global panopticon, the case for treating economic espionage as tier-one national security, and the coming collision of AI, autonomy, and trust—ending with what it means to “think like an intelligence officer” without becoming the thing we’re fighting.

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Order The Fourth Intelligence Revolution: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250370907/thefourthintelligencerevolution/

Learn more on Anthony’s website: https://www.anthonyvinci.com/

Subscribe to Anthony’s Substack: https://anthonyvinci.substack.com/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Joy Asico

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 13 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-12-12:/posts/8818567 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep18: The Putin Factor Trump Keeps Ignoring with Dr Taras Kuzio https://audioboom.com/posts/8816830 18 The Putin Factor Trump Keeps Ignoring with Dr Taras Kuzio 10 3980 false full In this episode, Chris speaks with Dr Taras Kuzio about the deeper forces shaping Russia’s war against Ukraine and the faltering U.S.-Russia-Ukraine peace talks. Kuzio explores Vladimir Putin’s obsession with history and identity, the existential stakes the war now holds for the Kremlin, and the political, economic and social pressures that make genuine negotiation nearly impossible. They unpack the Trump administration’s pro-Russian tilt, European hesitation, the resilience and innovation of Ukraine’s defence sector, and the deep divisions within the global Russian diaspora. The conversation also looks ahead to what 2026 may bring, the risks of a post-Putin Russia, and why the West urgently needs a coherent strategy if it hopes to shape the outcome of this conflict.

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Follow Dr. Kuzio on X: x.com/TarasKuzio

Read Dr. Kuzio’s recent reporting on Ukraine

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:15:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-12-09:/posts/8816830 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep17: Espresso Martini | DC Guard Tragedy, Ukraine’s ‘Final’ Offer, Venezuela, ISIS, and Russian Spy Pigeons https://audioboom.com/posts/8815334 17 Espresso Martini | DC Guard Tragedy, Ukraine’s ‘Final’ Offer, Venezuela, ISIS, and Russian Spy Pigeons 10 6184 true full In our final Espresso Martini of the year, Chris and Matt reflect on the DC National Guard shooting, the alleged Afghan CIA-linked gunman, and what the case says about how America treats its wartime partners once the war ends. They then turn to Trump’s latest “final” Ukraine peace offer and growing frustration in Europe as Moscow drags the war out on its own terms. The focus shifts to Venezuela, where Russian advisors, new air defenses, cartel politics, and U.S. forces raise the risk of conflict—and to post-Assad Syria, where ISIS is quietly regrouping amid a tenuous recovery. Finally, listener questions bring them to Pete Hegseth’s alleged no-quarter order, Tom Nichols’s case for accountability, and the long, dark tradition of animal spies—and some reflections on ten years of Secrets & Spies and where the show goes next.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Fellow Unit Member Says Alleged D.C. Shooter Felt Abandoned by CIA" by Kevin Mauer | The Rolling Stone: https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/alleged-dc-national-guard-shooter-felt-abandoned-cia-1235474835/

"The Ukraine peace deal has stumbled yet again over an inevitable obstacle: Putin" by Andrew Roth | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/dec/03/the-ukraine-peace-deal-has-stumbled-yet-again-over-an-inevitable-obstacle-putin

"Russian General In Venezuela Leading Advisory Mission: Ukraine’s Intel Chief" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/russian-general-in-venezuela-leading-advisory-mission-ukraines-intel-chief

Islamic State Wages a Guerrilla Insurgency Throughout Eastern Syria | The Soufan Center Intelbrief: https://thesoufancenter.org/intelbrief-2025-october-28/

"Pete Hegseth Needs to Go—Now" by Tom Nichols | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/2025/12/pete-hegseth-pentagon-department-defense/685098/

"Russia Launches First Brain-Chipped Bird Drones for Surveillance Over Cities" by Roman Kohanets | United24 Media: https://united24media.com/latest-news/russia-launches-first-brain-chipped-bird-drones-for-surveillance-over-cities-13769

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by AP & Taylor Crul/USAF

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 06 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-12-05:/posts/8815334 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep16: Chasing Chi with Jim Gaylord https://audioboom.com/posts/8812529 16 Chasing Chi with Jim Gaylord 10 4493 false full Former FBI Special Agent Jim Gaylord joins Matt to discuss Chasing Chi, his inside account of the multi-year hunt for Chi Mak, the low-key Southern California engineer at the center of a major Chinese spy ring inside America’s Navy industrial base. They walk through how a vague tip evolved into a full counterintelligence operation—trash pulls, covert entries, FISA surveillance, and a race to grab the Chi’s conspirators at LAX before stolen submarine and radar secrets left the country—and what the case reveals about China’s modern espionage threat.

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Learn more about Jim and the Chi Mak case: chasingchibook.com

Order Chasing Chi: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Chasing-Chi/James-E-Gaylord/9781493091966

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Prometheus Books

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 29 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-11-28:/posts/8812529 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep15: The Dogs of Mariupol with Tom Mutch https://audioboom.com/posts/8810694 15 The Dogs of Mariupol with Tom Mutch 10 4036 false full Chris is joined by journalist Tom Mutch to discuss The Dogs of Mariupol and the realities of reporting from Ukraine’s front lines. Tom shares what it takes to work inside an active war zone—from the decision to stay during the invasion to the daily logistics of moving, sourcing, and staying alive. They dig into the resilience of Ukrainians under fire, the reach of Russian propaganda, and the social fractures between those who fought and those who fled. Tom also reflects on why documenting these stories matters and how Ukraine’s future could be shaped by the ingenuity and grit he’s seen on the ground.

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Order The Dogs of Mariupol: https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/the-dogs-of-mariupol

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka, AFP & Madison Tuff

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 26 Nov 2025 07:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-11-25:/posts/8810694 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep14: The Man Who Sold Honours with Stephen Bates https://audioboom.com/posts/8809200 14 The Man Who Sold Honours with Stephen Bates 10 2809 false full Chris Carr sits down with author Stephen Bates to discuss The Man Who Sold Honours and the extraordinary life of Maundy Gregory—actor, fixer, conman and sometime MI5 asset at the heart of Britain’s original cash-for-honours scandal. They unpack how Gregory monetised access to power, became the only person ever prosecuted under the 1925 law aimed at stopping the sale of honours, and what his story reveals about the long, murky history of buying peerages. The conversation then jumps to today’s political funding battles—from parties’ dependence on wealthy donors to recent cash-for-honours rows and Boris Johnson’s approach to transparency—to ask what all this says about the health of British democracy.

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Order The Man Who Sold Honours: https://www.iconbooks.com/ib-title/the-man-who-sold-honours-2/

Find more about Stephen: https://www.stephenbateswriter.com

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Icon Books, Hooman R./Unsplash & Gert Lucas/PhotoHound

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 22 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-11-21:/posts/8809200 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep13: How Digital Currency Impacts National Security with Yaya J. Fanusie https://audioboom.com/posts/8806377 13 How Digital Currency Impacts National Security with Yaya J. Fanusie 10 3424 false full On today’s episode, Chris and former CIA analyst Yaya Jata Fanusie explore the evolution of digital currencies, focusing on central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), Bitcoin, and the implications for national security and global financial systems. They discuss the rise of China's digital currency, the concept of programmable money, and the potential for cryptocurrencies to challenge traditional financial systems and government control. The conversation also touches on the importance of data in geopolitical power and the regulatory landscape surrounding cryptocurrencies.

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The Programmable State: The e-CNY and China’s Quest for Smarter Surveillance by Yaya J. Fanusie & Emily Jin | Lawfare: https://www.lawfaremedia.org/article/the-programmable-state--the-e-cny-and-china-s-quest-for-smarter-surveillance

Connect with Yaya

On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaya-jata-fanusie-87901738/
On X/Twitter: https://x.com/SignCurve

Yaya’s Substack recomendation, Crypto is Macro Now: https://www.cryptoismacro.com/
Yaya’s book recommendation, Read Write Own: https://readwriteown.com/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Yaya J. Fanusie & Canva

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 15 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-11-14:/posts/8806377 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10: Podcast Update - No Espresso Martini this week https://audioboom.com/posts/8806295 10 63 false full Chris is under the weather this weekend, so in place of Espresso Martini we’re sharing his conversation with former CIA analyst Yaya Fanusie. They dig into the national security and geopolitical stakes of central bank digital currencies, the broader evolution of crypto, and China’s push to build a state-controlled system. Matt and Chris will return with a new Espresso Martini the first weekend of December.

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Fri, 14 Nov 2025 10:29:23 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-11-14:/posts/8806295 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep12: Europe’s Not Waiting for America with Shane Harris https://audioboom.com/posts/8803555 12 Europe’s Not Waiting for America with Shane Harris 10 2219 false full Shane Harris joins Matt to discuss his recent piece in The Atlantic, “Europe Is Answering Putin’s Challenge.” From drone incursions over the Baltic to Trump’s transactional diplomacy, Shane unpacks how European leaders are rearming, coordinating, and preparing for a future where Washington may no longer be the continent’s security backstop. They explore NATO’s shifting balance of power, the uneasy courtship between Trump and Europe’s leaders, and whether the alliance can endure in an age of populism and uncertainty.

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Read Shane’s piece: https://www.theatlantic.com/national-security/archive/2025/10/nato-putin-trump-europe-ukraine/684592/

More of Shane’s reporting: https://www.theatlantic.com/author/shane-harris/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by NATO

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 08 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-11-07:/posts/8803555 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep11: Reality Winner on the Leak That Changed Her Life https://audioboom.com/posts/8797917 11 Reality Winner on the Leak That Changed Her Life 10 4162 true full In this special conversation, Chris speaks with Reality Winner — the former Air Force linguist and NSA contractor who leaked evidence of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election and served the longest prison sentence ever imposed for an unauthorized disclosure. Winner reflects on her decision, the weaponization of the Espionage Act, her years in prison, and the struggle to rebuild her life after release. It’s an unfiltered discussion about truth, power, and the personal cost of dissent in modern America.

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Order Reality’s memoir, I Am Not Your Enemy: https://www.spiegelandgrau.com/i-am-not-your-enemy

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Christopher Lee

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 01 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-10-30:/posts/8797917 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep10: Espresso Martini | Gaza’s Fragile Peace, a UK Spy Trial Collapses, and How U.S. Research Fuels China’s Military https://audioboom.com/posts/8795599 10 Espresso Martini | Gaza’s Fragile Peace, a UK Spy Trial Collapses, and How U.S. Research Fuels China’s Military 10 3970 false full A fragile ceasefire in Gaza, the collapse of a UK spy trial, and a damning new report on China’s exploitation of U.S. defense research—Chris and Matt unpack a pivotal few weeks in global politics and intelligence. They assess the Trump-brokered truce between Israel and Hamas, the role of Jared Kushner, Qatar, and Tony Blair in the deal, and why Netanyahu’s legal troubles could upend it all. In London, they break down how a high-profile Chinese espionage case unraveled, exposing gaps in the Official Secrets Act and Britain’s uneasy relationship with Beijing. And in Washington, Matt digs into a new Congressional report on U.S. taxpayer-funded defense research benefiting the PLA—from hypersonics, quantum computing, and AI—and the bipartisan effort to close those loopholes.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"How Trump Pushed Israel and Hamas to Yes" by Isaac Stanley-Becker and Vivian Salama | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/national-security/archive/2025/10/ceasefire-gaza-trump-israel-hamas/684529/

"Hamas Is Not Done Fighting" by Matthew Levitt | Foreign Affairs: https://www.foreignaffairs.com/palestinian-territories/hamas-not-done-fighting

"White House Works to Preserve Gaza Deal Amid Concerns About Netanyahu" by Katie Rogers and Luke Broadwater | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/20/us/politics/trump-gaza-israel-netanyahu.html

"The aide, the associate, the ‘Chinese agent’ – and the collapse of a long-awaited UK spy trial" by Dan Sabbagh and Amy Hawkins | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/sep/20/collapse-uk-spy-trial-china-christopher-cash-christopher-berry

"Witness statements in relation to alleged breach of Official Secrets Act on behalf of China" by Matthew Collins | Crown Prosecution Service: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/witness-statements-in-relation-to-alleged-breach-of-official-secrets-act-on-behalf-of-china

"Fox in the Henhouse: The US Department of Defense Research and Engineering's Failures to Protect Taxpayer-Funded Defense Research" | US House Select Committee on the CCP: https://selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov/media/reports/fox-in-the-henhouse

What else we’re reading this week

"A CIA Secret Kept for 35 Years Is Found in the Smithsonian’s Vault" by John Schwartz | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/16/science/kryptos-cia-solution-sanborn-auction.html

"Charles Powell: Britain has always had to deal carefully with China" by Luke O’Reilly | The New Statesman: https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/uk-politics/2025/10/charles-powell-britain-has-always-had-to-deal-carefully-with-china

"Director General Ken McCallum gives threat update" by Ken McCallum | MI5: https://www.mi5.gov.uk/director-general-ken-mccallum-gives-threat-update

"Dutch services share less information with the US: 'Sometimes we don't tell things anymore'" by Huib Mudderkolk | Volkskrant: https://www.volkskrant.nl/binnenland/nederlandse-diensten-delen-minder-informatie-met-de-vs-soms-vertellen-we-dingen-niet-meer~b4882f19/

"The Kremlin’s New Contractors: Inside Russia’s Market for Political Warfare" by Anton Shekhovtsov | Towers of Europa: https://shekhovtsov.substack.com/p/the-kremlins-new-contractors

"Hostile states recruit youths for crime, Met warns" by James W. Kelly | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0q73312zlpo

"Mysterious Aircraft Crash Near Area 51 Just Got Weirder" by Joseph Trevithick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/mysterious-aircraft-crash-near-area-51-just-got-weirder

"Satellites Are Leaking the World’s Secrets: Calls, Texts, Military and Corporate Data" by Andy Greenberg and Matt Burgess | WIRED: https://www.wired.com/story/satellites-are-leaking-the-worlds-secrets-calls-texts-military-and-corporate-data/

"Trump Administration Authorizes Covert CIA Action in Venezuela" by Julian E. Barnes and Tyler Pager | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/15/us/politics/trump-covert-cia-action-venezuela.html

"Trump Is Turning Back the Clock on US Policy in Latin America" by Frida Ghitis | World Politics Review: https://www.worldpoliticsreview.com/us-china-latin-america-trump/

"Why did the China spying case collapse?" by Will Barker | The Week UK: https://theweek.com/defence/why-did-the-china-spying-case-collapse

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photo by Pedro Pardo/AFP & Greg Barker/AFP

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 25 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-10-24:/posts/8795599 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep9: John le Carré's Tradecraft with Dr. Jessica Douthwaite https://audioboom.com/posts/8793032 9 John le Carré's Tradecraft with Dr. Jessica Douthwaite 10 2814 false full Chris speaks with historian Dr. Jessica Douthwaite, co-curator of John le Carré: Tradecraft at Oxford’s Bodleian Library. They explore how le Carré—born David Cornwell—approached his extensive research, the selection process for the exhibition, and the political evolution reflected in his works. Jessica emphasizes le Carré’s identity as a writer who was also a spy, the collaborative nature of his writing process with his wife, and the contemporary relevance of his themes. They also discuss his novels’ impact on literature and society, and how le Carré’s creative legacy has reshaped modern spy fiction.

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Find more about John le Carré: Tradecraft: https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/lecarre

Buy the exhibition book, Tradecraft: Writers on John le Carré: https://bodleianshop.co.uk/products/tradecraft-writers-on-john-le-carre

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photo courtesy of Ralph Crane/Time-Life & Bodleian Library

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 18 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-10-17:/posts/8793032 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep8: The Grave Robber: Inside the FBI’s Art Crime Team and Its Most Unusual Case with Tim Carpenter https://audioboom.com/posts/8791696 8 The Grave Robber: Inside the FBI’s Art Crime Team and Its Most Unusual Case with Tim Carpenter 10 3837 false full Former FBI agent Tim Carpenter led the Bureau’s Art Crime Team, chasing down everything from stolen masterworks to looted antiquities. In this conversation, he joins Chris to discuss his new book The Grave Robber, a gripping account of the biggest stolen artifacts case in FBI history. Tim recounts the investigation into Don Miller, an amateur collector who raided archaeological sites and kept human remains in his Indiana home, and reflects on how the FBI sought justice and cultural restoration in the aftermath.

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Order The Grave Robber: https://www.harpercollinsfocus.com/harper-horizon/grave-robber/

Find more about Tim and his work outside the FBI: https://arguscpc.com/about/
Connect with Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-carpenter-271856202/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos courtesy of HarperCollins and the FBI

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, cold war espionage and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:15:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-10-15:/posts/8791696 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep7: Race Against Terror with Jake Tapper https://audioboom.com/posts/8789916 7 Race Against Terror with Jake Tapper 10 2977 false full CNN’s Jake Tapper joins Matt to discuss his new book Race Against Terror, a gripping true story of the US hunt and prosecution of an al-Qaeda fighter named Spin Ghul. They trace the case’s origins in Italy and Afghanistan, its lessons about justice and accountability after 9/11, and what it reveals about how America wages its “forever war.” Tapper reflects on writing trauma without spectacle, the moral limits of the War on Terror, and the investigators who quietly uphold the rule of law amid politics and fear.

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Order Race Against Terror, and see Jake’s tour schedule: https://www.simonandschuster.com/p/jake-tapper-books

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Elliott O'Donovan

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 11 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-10-10:/posts/8789916 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep6: Espresso Martini | Hegseth’s Lecture, an NYC SIM Farm Bust, Spies in a Shutdown, and MI6’s Silent Courier https://audioboom.com/posts/8786683 6 Espresso Martini | Hegseth’s Lecture, an NYC SIM Farm Bust, Spies in a Shutdown, and MI6’s Silent Courier 10 3829 false full This week, Chris and Matt break down Pete Hegseth’s speech at Quantico, where he and President Trump summoned 800 generals and admirals for what turned out to be a culture-war lecture on grooming standards and “wokeness.” They examine what it says about civil-military relations in Trump’s second term and the risks in treating the armed forces as a political prop. Then they turn to the Secret Service’s discovery of a massive SIM-card farm in New York linked to swatting threats and fraud, and what it reveals about the intersection of cybercrime, sabotage, and telecom vulnerabilities. From there, they look at how the US government shutdown is playing out inside the intelligence community—why frontline missions continue while contractors and support staff face furloughs that erode resilience. Finally, they discuss MI6’s launch of a new dark-web tool called Silent Courier, designed to encourage potential sources to walk in virtually, and weigh the promises and dangers of this digital era of espionage.

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Train Like a Spy with SpyQ - Use this discount code for 10% off - SECRETS&SPIES10
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John Le Carré: Tradecraft @ The Bodleian Library in Oxford 1st Oct  - 6th April
https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/lecarre

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"A Novice Defense Secretary Lectures the Brass on What It Takes to Win" by Greg Jaffe | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/30/us/politics/hegseth-military-officers.html

"Trump Gave the Military’s Brass a Rehashed Speech. Until Minute 44." by Shawn McCreesh | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/30/us/politics/trump-military-brass-speech.html

"Secret Service traced swatting threats against officials. They found 300 servers capable of crippling New York’s cell system" by John Miller & Celina Tebor | CNN: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/09/23/us/swatting-investigation-server-network-discovered

"Six key questions about the dismantled network capable of crippling New York’s cell system" by David J. Lopez | CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2025/09/27/us/nyc-network-secret-service-investigation

"'SIM Farms’ Are a Spam Plague. A Giant One in New York Threatened US Infrastructure, Feds Say" by Andy Greenberg, Lily Hay Newman & Matt Burgess | WIRED: https://www.wired.com/story/sim-farm-new-york-threatened-us-infrastructure-feds-say/

"The Shutdown and the Spies" by Jeff Stein | SpyTalk: https://www.spytalk.co/p/the-shutdown-and-the-spies

"Silent Courier: UK intelligence service MI6 launches dark web portal to recruit foreign spies" by Nick Paton Walsh | CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2025/09/18/europe/mi6-silent-courier-dark-web-spies-intelligence-intl

What else we’re reading this week

"After US strikes, Iran increases work at mysterious underground site" by Warren P. Strobel and Jarrett Ley | The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/09/26/iran-underground-nuclear-us/

"Pete Hegseth Is Living the Dream" by Eliot A. Cohen | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/09/pete-hegseth-quantico/684423/

"The aide, the associate, the ‘Chinese agent’ – and the collapse of a long-awaited UK spy trial" by Dan Sabbagh and Amy Hawkins | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/sep/20/collapse-uk-spy-trial-china-christopher-cash-christopher-berry

"Rash of Russian breaches of NATO airspace brings calls for shootdown response" by John Vandiver | Stars and Stripes: https://www.stripes.com/theaters/europe/2025-09-22/nato-russia-airspace-violations-19180208.html

"Skunk Works Unveils Vectis Air Combat Drone That Puts A Premium On Stealth" by Joseph Trevithick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/skunk-works-unveils-vectis-air-combat-drone-that-puts-a-premium-on-stealth

"Russia is helping prepare China to attack Taiwan, documents suggest" by Catherine Belton and Christian Shepherd | The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/09/26/russia-china-weapons-sales-air-assault/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by Doug Mills/NYT

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 04 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-10-03:/posts/8786683 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep5: Train Like a Spy with SpyQ https://audioboom.com/posts/8784373 5 Train Like a Spy with SpyQ 10 1929 false full On todays special podcast, Chris is joined by Gavin Stone and James Foster to discuss “Spy-Q,” a tradecraft-for-civilians training event that turns elicitation, deception detection, influence, behavioural profiling, resilience, and memory techniques into practical tools you can actually use. 

Find out more information about SpyQ and register: https://www.spyq.co.uk/
Use this discount code for 10% off - SECRETS&SPIES10

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:39:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-09-29:/posts/8784373 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep4: Syria After Assad with Aaron Zelin https://audioboom.com/posts/8783439 4 Syria After Assad with Aaron Zelin 10 3516 false full Nearly a year after Bashar al-Assad fled Damascus, Syria is struggling to chart a path forward. This week, Matt is joined by Aaron Zelin of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, who has just returned from a rare trip inside the country where he met with President Ahmed al-Sharaa. They unpack Sharaa’s unlikely rise from jihadist commander to head of state, the sectarian bloodshed testing his grip on power, Israel’s relentless strikes and regional pressure, and the uneasy standoff with Kurdish forces in the northeast. From shattered infrastructure to fragile diplomacy, Aaron offers a first-hand look at a nation caught between rebuilding and relapse—and what the world should watch as Syria faces its most uncertain crossroads in decades.

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More of Aaron’s work: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/aaron-y-zelin

Read Aaron’s Substack, Jihadology+: https://www.jihadologyplus.com
Read Aaron’s past work for Jihadology: https://jihadology.net

Follow Aaron on Twitter/X: https://x.com/azelin
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Aaron’s analysis for The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

"Sharaa Goes to the United Nations" by Aaron Zelin | Policy Watch 4108: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/sharaa-goes-united-nations

"Delisting Hayat Tahrir al-Sham: Implications for US Counterterrorism and Syria Policy" by Aaron Zelin | Policy Watch 4077: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/delisting-hayat-tahrir-al-sham-implications-us-counterterrorism-and-syria-policy

"Trump Meets Sharaa: Writing a New Chapter in US-Syria Relations" | Policy Watch 4039: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/trump-meets-sharaa-writing-new-chapter-us-syria-relations

Further reporting for this episode

"For the first time in nearly six decades, a Syrian president steps up to speak at the UN" by Jennifer Peltz & Bassem Mroue | AP: https://apnews.com/article/syria-united-nations-unga-c0471a2f7faece79fe15793fb0466501

"From al-Qaida to the Upper East Side: Syria’s new leader makes his debut on the world stage" by Andrew Roth | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/sep/24/ahmed-al-sharaa-united-nations-syria

"Syria’s President Says Border Deal With Israel Could Come 'Within Days’" by Ben Hubbard | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/18/world/middleeast/syria-israel.html

"Syria risks rupturing as armed camps face off across the Euphrates" by John Davison, Orhan Qereman, Khalil Ashawi & Feras Dalatey | Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/investigations/syria-risks-rupturing-armed-camps-face-off-across-euphrates-2025-09-19/

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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 27 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-09-26:/posts/8783439 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep3: Espresso Martini | Five Eyes Fractures, Israel’s Doha Strike, and Tradecraft for Civvies https://audioboom.com/posts/8779615 3 Espresso Martini | Five Eyes Fractures, Israel’s Doha Strike, and Tradecraft for Civvies 10 3842 true full In this week’s episode, Chris and Matt take another look at the political assault on the US intelligence community and its strain on Five Eyes, pushing partners to question sharing or holding information back, even as the core bonds endure for now. Chris then previews “Spy-Q,” a tradecraft-for-civilians training event that turns elicitation, deception detection, influence, behavioral profiling, resilience, and memory techniques into practical tools you can actually use. Finally, they unpack Israel’s audacious, long-range strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar, the immediate blowback, and how Israeli intelligence refused to participate.

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Spy Q event with Gavin Stone and James Foster

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"The War on American Intelligence" by Matthew Savill | Royal United Services Institute: https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/war-american-intelligence

"Inside Israel’s Audacious Airstrike on Hamas Leaders in Qatar, a US Ally" by Dov Lieber, Summer Said & Lara Seligman | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/inside-israels-audacious-airstrike-on-hamas-leaders-in-qatar-a-u-s-ally-89104bcd

"Israeli intelligence agency balked at Netanyahu’s strike in Qatar" by Gerry Shih, Shira Rubin, Karen DeYoung & Souad Mekhennet | The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/09/12/mossad-israel-qatar-strike-hamas/

"Israel Executes Unprecedented Strike On Hamas Leadership In Qatar" by Howard Altman & Joseph Trevithick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/israel-executes-unprecedented-strike-on-hamas-leadership-in-qatar

"Netanyahu spoke to Trump before Israel bombed Qatar" by Barak Ravid | Axios: https://www.axios.com/2025/09/15/trump-netanyahu-call-israel-strike-qatar

What else we’re reading this week

"How a Top Secret SEAL Team 6 Mission Into North Korea Fell Apart" by David Phillips and Matthew Cole | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/05/us/navy-seal-north-korea-trump-2019.html

"Homeland Needs To Be Able To Survive A 'Punch In The Nose' According To Former NORAD Chief" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/homeland-needs-to-be-able-to-survive-a-punch-in-the-nose-according-to-former-norad-chief

"This Company Turns Dashcams into ‘Virtual CCTV Cameras.’ Then Hackers Got In" by Joseph Cox | 404 Media: https://www.404media.co/this-company-turns-dashcams-into-virtual-cctv-cameras-then-hackers-got-in

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by Ibraheem Abu Mustafa/Reuters, Jacqueline Penney/AFP & IDF

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 20 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-09-19:/posts/8779615 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep2: Uncovering Germany’s Cold War Spy Missions with Florian Flade https://audioboom.com/posts/8776566 2 Uncovering Germany’s Cold War Spy Missions with Florian Flade 10 4447 false full On this week’s episode, investigative journalist Florian Flade joins Chris to uncover three little-known German intelligence operations from the Cold War and their aftermath: supporting the Mujahideen in Afghanistan, secretly buying Soviet weapons from demoralized troops in East Germany, and covertly shipping GDR arms to Israel. Florian explains how these missions reflected Germany’s risk-taking intelligence culture, the close ties with allies like the CIA and Mossad, and the lessons they still carry for today as modern battlefields like Ukraine become testing grounds for foreign weaponry.

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Follow Florian’s blog and connect on social media

Florian’s reporting discussed in the episode

"When the BND Supported the Mujahideen" | Taggeshau: https://www.tagesschau.de/investigativ/wdr/bnd-mudschaheddin-101.html

"Summer Rain in the Hindu Kush" | Verschlusssache: https://ojihad.wordpress.com/2021/09/06/sommerregen-am-hindukusch/

"Treasures of Steel" | Verschlusssache: https://ojihad.wordpress.com/2022/12/01/schatze-aus-stahl/

"The 'Agricultural Machinery Affair'" | Verschlusssache: https://ojihad.wordpress.com/2025/08/11/die-landmaschinen-affare/

"The BND and the Yom Kippur War" | Verschlusssache: https://ojihad.wordpress.com/2022/10/06/der-bnd-und-der-jom-kippur-krieg/

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Photos by Hannibal Hanschke/Reuters

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 13 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-09-12:/posts/8776566 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S10 Ep1: Espresso Martini | Britain’s Flag Fight, America’s Role in Post-War Ukraine, Gabbard’s Purge, and a New Zealand Spy Trial https://audioboom.com/posts/8773168 1 Espresso Martini | Britain’s Flag Fight, America’s Role in Post-War Ukraine, Gabbard’s Purge, and a New Zealand Spy Trial 10 4883 false full Flags are flying across Britain—but behind the bunting lurks a far-right campaign. Chris and Matt kick off Season 10 with a look at "Operation Raise the Colours," the extremist-led push to turn patriotism into intimidation. From there, they move to Ukraine, where the US has signaled willingness to offer critical support to a potential European-led peacekeeping force, even as Trump hedges on a deal with Moscow. Next, Tulsi Gabbard ignites turmoil at the top of the intelligence community, revoking dozens of clearances—including an undercover CIA officer’s—raising fears of politicization and damage to US alliances. Finally, the guys head to New Zealand, where a soldier’s espionage case exposes ties to far-right groups and highlights how extremists exploit culture wars from both sides.

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Join Chris on a one-day podcast course

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"'Operation Raise the Colours' Organised by Well-Known Far-Right Extremists" by Joe Mulhall | Hope Not Hate: https://hopenothate.org.uk/2025/08/22/operation-raise-the-colours-organised-by-well-known-far-right-extremists/

"US offers air and intelligence support to postwar force in Ukraine" by Henry Foy, Christopher Miller & Steff Chávez | The Financial Times: https://www.ft.com/content/66ec25a0-4af8-467f-9fbe-cf42de890a7e

"Ukraine has unbreakable pledge from West with Trump's backing - Starmer" by Paul Kirby | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czxwl15w2qko

"'Operation Raise the Colours' Organised by Well-Known Far-Right Extremists" by Joe Mulhall | Hope Not Hate: https://hopenothate.org.uk/2025/08/22/operation-raise-the-colours-organised-by-well-known-far-right-extremists/

"Soldier admits spying against NZ by trying to give military base maps to foreign country" by Jeremy Wilkinson | The New Zealand Herald: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/soldier-admits-spying-against-nz-by-trying-to-give-military-base-maps-to-foreign-country/EJHSLUWH2JH65ERPPAZASVNBDY/

What else we’re reading this week

"DOGE Targeted Him on Social Media. Then the Taliban Took His Family." by Avi Asher-Schapiro and Christopher Bing | ProPublica: https://www.propublica.org/article/doge-musk-mohammad-halimi-institute-peace-taliban

"Tehran’s Homeland Option: Terror Pathways for Iran to Strike in the United States" by Matthew Levitt | Combating Terrorism Center at West Point: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/tehrans-homeland-option-terror-pathways-for-iran-to-strike-in-the-united-states/

"Estonian citizens warned of spy games if they travel to Russia" by Eloise Hardy | The Parliament: https://www.theparliamentmagazine.eu/news/article/estonian-citizens-warned-of-spy-games-if-they-travel-to-russia

"The choices facing Britain’s next MI6 chief" The Economist: https://www.economist.com/britain/2025/08/23/the-choices-facing-britains-next-mi6-chief

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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USAF Photo by Senior Airman Ali Stewart

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 06 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-09-05:/posts/8773168 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep66: How a Murder in Coal Country Toppled an American Dictator with Nicolo Majnoni https://audioboom.com/posts/8766540 66 How a Murder in Coal Country Toppled an American Dictator with Nicolo Majnoni 9 3309 false full In this episode, Matt speaks with Nicolo Majnoni, creator of The Shadow Kingdom podcast, about his new season investigating the murder of union reformer Jock Yablonski and the battle to reclaim America’s most powerful coal union from corruption and violence. They explore how union boss Tony Boyle turned the United Mine Workers into a personal fiefdom, why Yablonski’s democratic challenge cost him his life, and how, in response, a band of young outsiders helped bring the system down. It’s a story of murder and accountability, of power’s authoritarian temptations, and of how fragile—and how hard-won—American democracy can be.

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Subscribe to The Shadow Kingdom: Coal Survivor: https://crooked.com/podcast-series/shadow-kingdom/

Find more about Nicolo and his work: https://www.nicolomajnoni.com
Follow Nicolo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolomajnoni/

Order Blood Runs Coal: The Yablonski Murders and the Battle for the United Mine Workers of America by Mark Bradley: https://wwnorton.com/books/9780393652536

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by AP, Getty Images & Arin Sang-urai

Secrets and Spies is a spy podcast that sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 30 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-08-22:/posts/8766540 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep65: The Persuasion Game and How Influence Peddlers Target Democracy with Chad Lewis https://audioboom.com/posts/8766539 65 The Persuasion Game and How Influence Peddlers Target Democracy with Chad Lewis 9 6513 false full In this episode, Chris speaks with Chad Lewis, author of The Persuasion Game, about how foreign influence operations exploit Western political vulnerabilities. Chad discusses the rise of Kremlin-backed disinformation campaigns, the use of political operatives and lobbyists to bypass formal institutions using shadow diplomacy. The conversation explores how narratives are seeded, legitimized, and weaponized in US and UK politics, drawing on case studies involving Ukraine, authoritarian networks, and digital propaganda. Chad also reflects on how disinformation has reshaped public trust, democratic institutions, and international relations in the 21st century.

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Order The Persuasion Game: https://amplifypublishinggroup.com/product/bookstore/timely-politics-and-current-affairs/the-persuasion-game/

Find more about Chad and his work: https://chadlewis.net
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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by AP/Andrew Harnik & Jose Luis Magana

Secrets and Spies is a spy podcast that sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 23 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-08-22:/posts/8766539 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep64: China’s Long Arm: Uyghur Repression From Xinjiang to Washington with John Beck https://audioboom.com/posts/8763836 64 China’s Long Arm: Uyghur Repression From Xinjiang to Washington with John Beck 9 2868 false full Award-winning journalist John Beck joins Chris to discuss Those Who Should Be Seized Should Be Seized, his harrowing account of China’s campaign against Uyghurs, ethnic Kazakhs, and other Muslim minorities. Beck traces the lives of four people—from re-education camps in Xinjiang to exile in Turkey, Kazakhstan, and the US—revealing how Beijing’s reach extends far beyond its borders through intimidation, surveillance, and coercion. They explore mass detention, forced labor, and the destruction of culture; the weaponization of bureaucracy; and the role of literature and quiet resistance in preserving identity. Beck also examines the muted global response, the complicity of some governments, and the authoritarian playbook that turns Xinjiang into both a warning and a testing ground for repression worldwide.

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Order Those Who Should Be Seized Should Be Seized: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/774464/those-who-should-be-seized-should-be-seized-by-john-beck/

Follow John on Twitter/X: https://x.com/jm_beck

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by Kemal Aslan/Depo Photos

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 16 Aug 2025 07:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-08-15:/posts/8763836 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep63: How Global Finance Influences Geopolitics with Emmanuel Daniel https://audioboom.com/posts/8758653 63 How Global Finance Influences Geopolitics with Emmanuel Daniel 9 3481 false full How does financial architecture shape the global order? Chris is joined by Emmanuel Daniel—author of The Great Transition and founder of TAB Global—for a sweeping look at how banking, capital markets, and emerging technologies are redefining geopolitics. They explore the evolution of the US dollar, the impact of digital currencies, and whether China can build a viable alternative to Western capital markets. Emmanuel explains how the US became a financial superpower, why tariffs may backfire, and how AI and blockchain are transforming both power and inequality. Plus: why the next dominant players may not be large states at all.

Subscribe and share to stay ahead in the world of intelligence, geopolitics, and current affairs.

Find more about Emmanuel on his website: https://www.emmanueldaniel.com
Follow Emmanuel on Twitter/X: https://x.com/#!/EmmanuelDaniel


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Audio: https://pod.fo/e/30e0a0
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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies is a spy podcast that sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 09 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-08-05:/posts/8758653 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep62: The Information Animal: Humans, Technology, and the Competition for Reality with Alicia Wanless https://audioboom.com/posts/8757117 62 The Information Animal: Humans, Technology, and the Competition for Reality with Alicia Wanless 9 4862 false full How do we make sense of truth in a world saturated with content? This week, Chris speaks with Alicia Wanless—director of the Information Environment Project at the Carnegie Endowment and author of The Information Animal—to explore how humans have always wrestled with information, long before the internet. They unpack the patterns that emerge when new technologies reshape how we communicate, why influence operations aren’t new, and how today’s information warfare fits into a much older story. From ancient Athens to spam, and social media to national security, Wanless explains why understanding ourselves as “information animals” is key to confronting the chaos of the digital age.

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Find more about Alicia on her website and blog: https://lageneralista.com
Find more about the Carnegie Endowment’s Information Project: https://carnegieendowment.org/projects/information-environment-project

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Secrets and Spies is a spy podcast that sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Tue, 05 Aug 2025 11:47:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-07-31:/posts/8757117 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep53: Terror Without a Cause: Nihilism, Youth, and the New Extremist Threat with Jacob Ware https://audioboom.com/posts/8735113 53 Terror Without a Cause: Nihilism, Youth, and the New Extremist Threat with Jacob Ware 9 3501 false full This week, Matt is joined by terrorism researcher Jacob Ware to unpack the rise of nihilistic violent extremism—attacks carried out by disaffected young men radicalized online without any clear political goal. They explore how social media fuels this chaotic new threat, why the FBI created a new classification for it, and what makes networks like 764 and the Order of Nine Angles so dangerous. Then, they turn to the recent string of violent antisemitic attacks in the US and what they reveal about the blurred lines between far-left, far-right, and jihadist extremism. It’s a disturbing look at the future of terrorism, and what it means when violence itself becomes the ideology.

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Get Jacob’s book, God, Guns, and Sedition: Far-Right Terrorism in America:
https://www.cfr.org/book/god-guns-and-sedition
https://www.amazon.com/God-Guns-Sedition-Far-Right-Terrorism/dp/0231211228

Jacob’s work for the Council on Foreign Relations: https://www.cfr.org/expert/jacob-ware
Jacob’s work for Lawfare: https://www.lawfaremedia.org/contributors/jware

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Reporting discussed in the episode

"Nihilistic Violent Extremism: A Valuable Stride Forward in American Counterterrorism" by Jacob Ware | Just Security: https://www.justsecurity.org/113463/nihilistic-violent-extremism-american-counterterrorism/

"Killing for Nothing: The Bizarre Logic of the Palm Springs Bomber" by Luke Baumgartner | Lawfare: https://www.lawfaremedia.org/article/killing-for-nothing--the-bizarre-logic-of-the-palm-springs-bomber

"Order of Nine Angles" by Nick Lowles | Hope Not Hate: https://hopenothate.org.uk/2019/02/16/state-of-hate-2019-order-of-nine-angles/

"The Rise of Antisemitism and Political Violence in the U.S." by Callum Sutherland | Time Magazine: https://time.com/7287941/rise-of-antisemitism-political-violence-in-united-states/

"Court papers say suspect in embassy killings declared, ‘I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza’" by Eric Tucker, Michael Kunzelman, and Alanna Durkin Richer | Associated Press: https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-10307b3b1a2a337e76730736b12ebbcb

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 30 Jul 2025 10:37:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-06-13:/posts/8735113 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep60: QAnon and the Mainstreaming of Extremism with Mike Rothschild https://audioboom.com/posts/8751031 60 QAnon and the Mainstreaming of Extremism with Mike Rothschild 9 2858 false full Author and conspiracy researcher Mike Rothschild joins Chris to unpack the rise, evolution, and enduring influence of QAnon. They explore its blend of old and new conspiracies, its gamified social appeal, and the algorithmic fuel behind its viral spread. Mike explains how QAnon adapted across borders, embedded itself into mainstream politics, and fostered real-world violence—culminating in the January 6 Capitol attack. They also examine QAnon’s psychological grip, its creative and authoritarian appeal, and how families and societies can respond. Plus, COVID’s role in supercharging conspiracies, why Russia’s role may be overstated, and the challenges of countering disinformation in the age of social media.

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Order The Storm Is Upon Us from Penguin and Hachette:
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https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/mike-rothschild/the-storm-is-upon-us/9781800960459/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 30 Jul 2025 10:36:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-07-18:/posts/8751031 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep61: Espresso Martini | Epstein Spy Rumors, Arctic Power Plays, and Trump’s Ukraine Reversal https://audioboom.com/posts/8754626 61 Espresso Martini | Epstein Spy Rumors, Arctic Power Plays, and Trump’s Ukraine Reversal 9 3998 false full The MAGA movement cracks as Trump’s name surfaces in the Epstein files and his administration fails to deliver the promised disclosures. We unpack the backlash, the conspiracies, and the lingering question of an intelligence connection to Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. Plus: a bizarre UK spy case involving Russia, a USB stick, and a bicycle seat; the Arctic emerges as a flashpoint for missile defense, climate competition, and great power rivalry; and Trump’s reversal clears the way for new weapons to reach Ukraine—just not from the US directly.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Justice Department Told Trump in May That His Name Is Among Many in the Epstein Files" by Sadie Gurman, Annie Linskey, Josh Dawsey & Alex Leary | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/politics/justice-department-told-trump-name-in-epstein-files-727a8038

"Donald Trump, Jeffrey Epstein, and the Three Conspiracy-Theory Theories" by Jon Allsop | The New Yorker: https://www.newyorker.com/news/fault-lines/donald-trump-jeffrey-epstein-and-three-conspiracy-theory-theories

"Epstein, Maxwell, and the Intelligence Question We’re Not Asking" by Frank Snepp | Frank Snepp 360 Substack: https://snepp.substack.com/p/epstein-maxwell-and-the-intelligence

"The struggle for control of the Arctic is accelerating - and riskier than ever" by Gordon Corera | BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/resources/idt-f92bc043-3893-4688-8937-fd9cad8b0d5b

"British man guilty of trying to spy for Russia" by Lewis Adams | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyn0ygwd7jo

"Ukraine Will Get US Weapons in a New Way. Here’s What We Know." by Lara Jakes | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/15/world/europe/ukraine-weapons-us-nato.html

"Trump Sends Weapons to Ukraine: By the Numbers" by Mark F. Cancian and Chris H. Park | Center for Strategic & International Studies: https://www.csis.org/analysis/trump-sends-weapons-ukraine-numbers

What else we’re reading this week

"Anti-Woke Dad Who Fled With Family to Russia Sent to War Zone" by Josh Fiallo | The Daily Beast: https://www.thedailybeast.com/texan-moved-fam-to-russia-to-flee-wokenow-hes-headed-to-ukraine-front-line/

"New U.S. assessment finds American strikes destroyed only one of three Iranian nuclear sites" by Gordon Lubold, Courtney Kube, Julie Tsirkin, Katherine Doyle, Dan De Luce & Carol E. Lee | NBC News: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/new-us-assessment-finds-american-strikes-destroyed-only-one-three-iran-rcna218761

"It’s hunting season in orbit as Russia’s killer satellites mystify skywatchers" by Stephen Clark | Ars Technica: https://arstechnica.com/space/2025/07/its-hunting-season-in-orbit-as-russias-killer-satellites-mystify-skywatchers/

"'Sparring in space' – BBC gains rare access to US base tracking global missile strikes" by Jonathan Beale | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy8k2nd7e9no

"Trump’s War on the ‘Deep State’ Comes for the Dogs" by Shane Harris | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/national-security/archive/2025/07/james-clapper-cia-dog-trump/683575/

"USAF Denies It Refueled Israel’s Fighters During War With Iran" by Tyler Rogoway | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/u-s-denies-it-provided-aerial-tanker-support-for-israels-war-against-iran

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Davidoff Studios

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 26 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-07-25:/posts/8754626 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Service Announcement: Chris and Matt on DogShirtTV. No Espresso Martini this week, and a QAnon episode instead https://audioboom.com/posts/8751024 89 false full Hi eveyone. Chris & Matt will be on Benjamin Wittes & Alicia Wanless's YouTube show "Dog Shirt TV", talking about Secrets & Spies, its origins, our interest in espionage and our thoughts on Spy Fiction. You can watch the show here: https://youtu.be/QVKAQf7p_Fs?si=TruFrM4-jsg0iQMq

There won't be an Espresso Martini this week and instead we will be sharing Chris's interview with author Mike Rothschild and discussing his research on QAnon. That will be released on Saturday 19th.

Have a great weekend

All the best
Chris & Matt]]> Fri, 18 Jul 2025 21:12:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-07-18:/posts/8751024 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep59: The Mission: The CIA in the 21st Century with Tim Weiner https://audioboom.com/posts/8747348 59 The Mission: The CIA in the 21st Century with Tim Weiner 9 3777 true full Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Tim Weiner joins Matt to discuss The Mission, his new history of the CIA in the 21st century. They explore the agency’s quiet successes and moral failings, from dismantling the AQ Khan network to abetting torture and losing its way in Iraq. Weiner recounts how the CIA reoriented after the 2016 Russian election interference, played a key role in supporting Ukraine, and tried to hold the line under Trump. Their conversation spans secret wars, agency leadership, and whether America’s intelligence services can still defend democracy when democracy itself is under threat.

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More about The Mission: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-mission-tim-weiner

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Reviews of The Mission

"The Mission by Tim Weiner review – unmasking the CIA" by John Simpson | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/jul/10/the-mission-by-tim-weiner-review-unmasking-the-cia

"The Mission" by Publishers Weekly: https://www.publishersweekly.com/9780063270183

"Mission Madness" by Loch K. Johnson | Spytalk: https://www.spytalk.co/p/mission-madness

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Harper Collins, Jessica Doyle & CIA

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 12 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-07-11:/posts/8747348 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep58: Iran’s Nuclear Future and Why Bombs Won’t Stop it with Joe Cirincione https://audioboom.com/posts/8746058 58 Iran’s Nuclear Future and Why Bombs Won’t Stop it with Joe Cirincione 9 2824 false full Matt is joined by nonproliferation expert Joe Cirincione to unpack what the recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran actually achieved—and what they didn’t. They discuss the extent of the damage to Iran’s nuclear program, why military action alone can’t stop a country from getting the bomb, and what a viable diplomatic path forward might look like. Joe breaks down the technical realities of uranium enrichment and covert weapons development, explores whether Iran now has the intent as well as the capability to build a nuclear weapon, and explains how this crisis risks pushing the world back toward nuclear anarchy. They also consider what future proliferators might be learning from the Iran case, and what comes next for the global arms control regime.

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Additional reading for the episode

"Iran and the Changing Character of the Nonproliferation Regime" by Joseph Rodgers | Center for Strategic & International Studies: https://www.csis.org/analysis/iran-and-changing-character-nonproliferation-regime

"Disruption or Dismantlement: Diverging Assessments of Iran Nuclear Strikes" by Bailey Schiff | CSIS Next-Generation Nuclear Network: https://nuclearnetwork.csis.org/disruption-or-dismantlement-diverging-assessments-of-iran-nuclear-strikes/

"Post-Attack Assessment of the First 12 Days of Israeli and US Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities" by David Albright, Spencer Faragasso, and the Good ISIS Team | Institute for Science & International Security: https://isis-online.org/isis-reports/post-attack-assessment-of-the-first-12-days-of-israeli-strikes-on-iranian-nuclear-facilities

"Going for the Bomb: Part I, Pathways and Timelines" by David Albright | Institute for Science & International Security: https://isis-online.org/isis-reports/going-for-the-bomb-part-i-pathways-and-timelines

"Going for the Bomb: Part II, Tasks to Make a Crude Nuclear Weapon" by David Albright and Andrea Stricker | Institute for Science & International Security: https://isis-online.org/isis-reports/going-for-the-bomb-part-ii-tasks-to-make-a-crude-nuclear-weapon

"Iran Suspends Cooperation With UN Nuclear Watchdog" by Erika Solomon and Sanam Mahoozi | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/02/world/middleeast/iran-nuclear-iaea.html

"Pentagon Says US Strike Delayed Iran’s Nuclear Program by Up to Two Years" by Lara Seligman and Michael R. Gordon | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/pentagon-says-u-s-strike-delayed-irans-nuclear-program-by-up-to-two-years-8d51eb81

"What Is the Iran Nuclear Deal?" by Kali Robinson | Council on Foreign Relations: https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/what-iran-nuclear-deal

Support Secrets and Spies

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto & Hossein Beris/Middle East Images

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 09 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-07-08:/posts/8746058 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep57: Espresso Martini | NATO Navigates Trump, Presidential War Powers, and Ukraine Under Strain https://audioboom.com/posts/8744441 57 Espresso Martini | NATO Navigates Trump, Presidential War Powers, and Ukraine Under Strain 9 4425 false full This week, Matt and Chris break down the recent NATO summit, where Trump’s presence loomed large—even as the alliance bent over backwards to avoid a blow-up. Matt argues that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s cringe-worthy text to Trump might’ve been politically shrewd, and the guys dive into Europe’s growing defense commitments, defense-industrial capacity, and public skepticism over military spending. Then, they take a hard look at presidential war powers in the wake of Trump’s strikes on Iran, using Syria 2013 as a case study in how Congress has repeatedly abdicated its role. Plus, the latest from Ukraine’s northeast front, troubling delays in US weapons aid, and a brief tour through MI5 misconduct and Chinese ekranoplans.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Five key priorities for NATO after the summit in The Hague – and how to make progress" by Armida van Rij and Kajsa Ollongren | Chatham House: https://www.chathamhouse.org/2025/06/five-key-priorities-nato-after-summit-hague-and-how-make-progress

"A tale of two summits" by Nicholas Dungan | European Leadership Network: https://europeanleadershipnetwork.org/commentary/a-tale-of-two-summits/

"Iran and the War Powers Problem" by POGO Staff | Project on Government Oversight: https://www.pogo.org/analysis/iran-and-the-war-powers-problem

"Does the president need Congress to approve military actions in Iran?" by Scott Bomboy | National Constitution Center: https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/does-the-president-need-congress-to-approve-military-actions-in-iran

"Fight On Ukraine’s Northern Border Sees Elite Troops Poured In From Both Sides" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/fight-on-ukraines-northern-border-sees-elite-troops-poured-in-from-both-sides

What else we’re reading this week

"The Sheikh Who Conquered Soccer and Coddles Warlords" by Declan Walsh and Tariq Panja | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/29/world/middleeast/emirates-manchester-city-soccer-sudan.html

"China Builds New Large Jet-Powered Ekranoplan" by H I Sutton | Naval News: https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2025/06/china-builds-new-jet-powered-large-ekranoplan/

"Judges order 'robust' inquiry into MI5 false evidence" by Daniel De Simone | BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c8d6e4d8v8mo.amp

"Royal Air Force Goes Nuclear With F-35A" by Thomas Newdick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/royal-air-force-goes-nuclear-with-f-35a

"A confidential brief urges the ICC to investigate Wagner’s promotion of atrocities in West Africa" by Monika Pronczuk and Sam Mednick | Associated Press: https://apnews.com/article/wagner-russia-videos-war-crimes-mali-burkina-icc-c4dc7d04846d02b014ed4c645d265475

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: https://www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies
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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by NATO

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 05 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-07-04:/posts/8744441 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep56: The Iran Intel and Tulsi Gabbard’s Future as DNI with Shane Harris https://audioboom.com/posts/8743284 56 The Iran Intel and Tulsi Gabbard’s Future as DNI with Shane Harris 9 2972 false full The U.S.  just carried out its most significant strikes on Iran in 45 years. President Trump declared victory, but his intelligence agencies aren’t so sure. This week, Matt is joined by The Atlantic’s Shane Harris to unpack what we actually know about the strikes’ effectiveness, the fractured intel picture behind them, and how DNI Tulsi Gabbard has navigated the fallout. They discuss her eroding influence, the internal backlash to her public testimony, and what her tenure reveals about the growing politicization of the intelligence community—and the risks when presidents try to shape intel to match their narrative.

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Reporting discussed in the episode

"Tulsi Gabbard Chooses Loyalty to Trump" by Isaac Stanley-Becker & Shane Harris | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/06/tulsi-gabbard-trump-iran/683323/

"Thank You for Your Attention to This Matter!" by Missy Ryan, Shane Harris, Isaac Stanley-Becker & Jonathan Lemire | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/06/israel-iran-trump-truth-social/683306/

"The True Impact of Trump’s Strike on Iran" by Missy Ryan, Jonathan Lemire, Ashley Parker, Isaac Stanley-Becker & Shane Harris | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/06/iran-nuclear-damage-trump/683294/

"Trump Changed. The Intelligence Didn’t." by Shane Harris | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/06/trump-changed-the-intelligence-didnt/683289/

"Trump’s Two-Week Window for Diplomacy Was a Smoke Screen" by Michael Scherer, Missy Ryan, Isaac Stanley-Becker, Shane Harris & Jonathan Lemire | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/06/trump-israel-iran-bomb/683275/

"How Israel Executed Its Surprise Assault on Iran" by Isaac Stanley-Becker and Shane Harris | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/06/how-israel-surprised-iran/683184/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:20:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-07-02:/posts/8743284 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep55: Espresso Martini | Operation Midnight Hammer, Trump’s Claims, and What Comes Next https://audioboom.com/posts/8741514 55 Espresso Martini | Operation Midnight Hammer, Trump’s Claims, and What Comes Next 9 4094 false full This week, Chris and Matt return for an emergency deep dive on Operation Midnight Hammer, the largest US strike on Iran since 1979. They break down what the bombing raid and actually achieved, why initial White House claims of “obliterating” Iran’s nuclear program don’t hold up to scrutiny, and what the intelligence community’s more cautious battle damage assessments reveal. They also unpack the legal debate around preemptive strikes, Israel’s unfinished campaign against Iran, and the risk of a new status quo in which these strikes become routine. Plus, Denis Villeneuve takes on Bond, and Chris dares to revisit the great “blonde Bond” panic of 2005.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Shifting Views and Misdirection: How Trump Decided to Strike Iran" by Mark Mazzetti, Jonathan Swan, Maggie Haberman, Eric Schmitt & Helene Cooper | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/22/us/politics/trump-iran-decision-strikes.html

"Early US intel assessment suggests strikes on Iran did not destroy nuclear sites, sources say" by Natasha Bertrand, Katie Bo Lillis & Zachary Cohen | CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/24/politics/intel-assessment-us-strikes-iran-nuclear-sites

"Strike Set Back Iran’s Nuclear Program by Only a Few Months, U.S. Report Says" by Julian E. Barnes, Helene Cooper, Eric Schmitt, Ronen Bergman, Maggie Haberman & Jonathan Swan | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/24/us/politics/iran-nuclear-sites.html

"Israeli officials see 'significant' damage to Iran's nuclear facilities" by Barak Ravid & Zachary Basu | Axios: https://www.axios.com/2025/06/25/iran-nuclear-program-israel-damage-intelligence

"In New Assessment, C.I.A. Chief Says U.S. Strikes ‘Severely Damaged’ Iranian Program" by Julian E. Barnes, Mark Mazzetti & Maggie Haberman | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/25/us/politics/trump-iran-nuclear.html

"Centrifuges at Fordo ‘No Longer Operational,’ U.N. Nuclear Watchdog Head Says" by Aurelien Breeden | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/26/world/middleeast/centrifuges-fordo-damage-iran.html

“Post-Attack Assessment of the First 12 Days of Israeli and U.S. Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities” by David Albright & Spencer Faragasso | Institute for Science & International Security: https://isis-online.org/isis-reports/post-attack-assessment-of-the-first-12-days-of-israeli-strikes-on-iranian-nuclear-facilities

"Questions on the Fordo Strike (Wonky)" by Cheryl Rofer | Lawyers, Guns, Money: https://www.lawyersgunsmoneyblog.com/2025/06/questions-on-the-fordo-strike-wonky

"Everything We Just Learned About The GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator Strikes On Iran" by Joseph Trevithick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/gbu-57-massive-ordnance-penetrator-strikes-on-iran-everything-we-just-learned

"Largest Patriot Missile Salvo In U.S. Military History Launched Defending Al Udeid Air Base Against Iranian Attack" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/land/largest-patriot-salvo-in-u-s-military-history-launched-defending-al-udeid-air-base-against-iranian-missiles

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 28 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-06-27:/posts/8741514 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep54: Espresso Martini | Israel vs. Iran, Trump Wavers, and Moscow’s China Paranoia https://audioboom.com/posts/8738221 54 Espresso Martini | Israel vs. Iran, Trump Wavers, and Moscow’s China Paranoia 9 4590 false full This week, Chris and Matt dive into the war between Israel and Iran, now entering its second week, with President Trump weighing a direct US strike on Iran’s deeply buried Fordow nuclear facility. They unpack how the conflict began, Mossad’s covert sabotage campaign, the mounting civilian toll, and the split between Israeli and US intelligence over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. They also explore how Trump’s political coalition is fracturing over potential US military involvement, whether the Iranian regime can survive the assault, and what might come next. Then, they turn to leaked documents revealing how Russia’s FSB sees China as a serious espionage threat, despite public rhetoric of partnership. They wrap with thoughts on MI6’s new chief and the legacy of spy fiction giant Frederick Forsyth.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Israel Built Its Case for War With Iran on New Intelligence. The U.S. Didn’t Buy It." by Alexander Ward, Lara Seligman & Dustin Volz | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/israel-built-its-case-for-war-with-iran-on-new-intelligence-the-u-s-didnt-buy-it-55592e81

"Exclusive: Inside the spy dossier that led Israel to war" | The Economist: https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2025/06/18/exclusive-inside-the-spy-dossier-that-led-israel-to-war

"How Trump Shifted on Iran Under Pressure From Israel" by Jonathan Swan, Maggie Haberman, Mark Mazzetti & Ronen Bergman | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/17/us/politics/trump-iran-israel-nuclear-talks.html

"This War Is Not Helping Us" by Arash Azizi | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2025/06/iran-opposition-israel-war/683207/

"Hegseth defers to general on Pentagon’s plans for Iran" by Jack Detsch & Paul McLeary | Politico: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/17/hegseth-erik-kurilla-iran-pentagon-response-00411007

"US Decision On Striking Iran To Be Made In 'Next Two Weeks’" by Thomas Newdick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/u-s-decision-on-striking-iran-to-be-made-in-next-two-weeks

"Israeli Airstrikes Blunt Iranian Long-Range Ballistic Missile Threat" by Howard Altman & Tyler Rogoway | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/israeli-airstrikes-blunt-iranian-long-range-ballistic-missile-launch-capabilities

"Spike Missiles That Destroyed Air Defenses From Inside Iran Were Remotely Operated" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/spike-missiles-that-destroyed-air-defenses-from-inside-iran-were-remotely-operated

"Secret Russian Intelligence Document Shows Deep Suspicion of China" by Jacob Judah, Paul Sonne & Anton Troianovski | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/07/world/europe/china-russia-spies-documents-putin-war.html

"MI6 appoints first female chief in 116-year history" by Chris Mason, Frank Gardner & Rich Preston | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czxyx04dv1wo

"The Day Of The Jackal author Frederick Forsyth dies" by Ian Youngs | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czj4ljxv17xo

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 21 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-06-20:/posts/8738221 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep52: Espresso Martini | Operation Spiderweb, CIA’s Star Wars Fan Site, and the Mystery of RAT55 https://audioboom.com/posts/8731870 52 Espresso Martini | Operation Spiderweb, CIA’s Star Wars Fan Site, and the Mystery of RAT55 9 4325 true full Ukraine’s audacious drone assault on Russian airbases, codenamed Operation Spiderweb, leads this week’s episode, as Chris and Matt break down how Kyiv may have just kneecapped Russia’s strategic bomber fleet in a single strike. They dig into what it means for Russia’s nuclear deterrent, the future of force protection, and the broader trajectory of the war. Then, a Star Wars fan site turns out to be a front for CIA covert communications. Matt unpacks how it worked, why it failed, and the lives it may have cost. Plus, a rare public appearance by RAT55, the Air Force’s bizarre stealth-measuring 737, raises questions about Area 51, classified drones, and the durability of U.S. air dominance in a drone-saturated world.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"What Ukraine’s Unprecedented Drone Attack Means For Russia’s Bomber Force" by Thomas Newdick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/what-ukraines-unprecedented-drone-attack-means-for-russian-bomber-force

"The CIA Secretly Ran a Star Wars Fan Site" by Joseph Cox | 404 Media: https://www.404media.co/the-cia-secretly-ran-a-star-wars-fan-site/

"The CIA's communications suffered a catastrophic compromise. It started in Iran." by Zach Dorfman & Jenna McLaughlin | Yahoo News: https://www.yahoo.com/news/cias-communications-suffered-catastrophic-compromise-started-iran-090018710.html

"America’s Throwaway Spies" by Joel Schectman & Bozorgmehr Sharafedin | Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/usa-spies-iran/

"World’s Most Secretive 737 Just Made A Very Rare Appearance" by Tyler Rogoway | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/worlds-most-secretive-737-rat55-just-made-a-rare-public-appearance

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by Maxar

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 07 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-06-06:/posts/8731870 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep51: The Rise of the Greek Far Right with Patrick Strickland https://audioboom.com/posts/8730271 51 The Rise of the Greek Far Right with Patrick Strickland 9 3540 false full In this conversation, Patrick Strickland discusses his experiences as a conflict reporter, particularly focusing on the refugee crisis in Greece and the rise of the neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn. He shares insights into the socio-political landscape that allowed Golden Dawn to thrive, their violent tactics, and their connections with international far-right movements. Strickland emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics in the context of global far-right trends and the ongoing challenges faced by refugees and migrants. In this conversation, Patrick Strickland discusses the normalization of extremist rhetoric in mainstream politics, particularly in relation to migration and right-wing narratives. He highlights the impact of disinformation on humanitarian efforts and the legal challenges faced by those trying to assist refugees. The discussion also covers the significance of the Golden Dawn trial in Greece, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance against fascism and the importance of education in recognizing the signs of rising extremism. Strickland calls for policymakers to consider humane approaches to migration and to learn from past mistakes in handling refugee crises.

Learn more about Patrick and his reporting: https://www.patrickobrienstrickland.com

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-06-04:/posts/8730271 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep50: Pagan Extremism, Warrior Myths, and the Culture Wars of Russia and Ukraine with Ross Downing https://audioboom.com/posts/8725026 50 Pagan Extremism, Warrior Myths, and the Culture Wars of Russia and Ukraine with Ross Downing 9 4548 false full Chris speaks with researcher and author Ross Downing about his book Germanic and Slavic Paganism: Security Threats and Resiliency. Ross, who works with a network of scholars and specialists focused on minority religions and extremism, explores how modern pagan traditions, particularly those rooted in Germanic and Slavic identity, are increasingly weaponized by extremist movements on both sides of the Ukraine War. From the myth of the warrior ideal to the role of neo-paganism in Russian special forces and the Azov movement, Ross unpacks the ideological messiness, spiritual camouflage, and social vulnerabilities that make these belief systems ripe for radicalization. They also discuss the “folkish vs. inclusive” divide, the algorithm’s role in spreading conspiratorial spirituality, and why mainstream institutions need to step up—not just to contain extremism, but to support resilient, non-violent expressions of cultural identity.

Find Ross’s book: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/germanic-and-slavic-paganisms-9781350423916/

Watch on YouTube to see Ross talk about Pagan symbols used by Russian and Ukrainian forces: https://youtu.be/IMJ3OH3czMA

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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 24 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-05-23:/posts/8725026 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep49: Espresso Martini | India and Pakistan Pull Back, A Warning on Loyalty Over Expertise, and Trump’s Flying Palace https://audioboom.com/posts/8720797 49 Espresso Martini | India and Pakistan Pull Back, A Warning on Loyalty Over Expertise, and Trump’s Flying Palace 9 3688 false full This week, Chris and Matt break down the uneasy truce reached between India and Pakistan after weeks of escalating violence, with the Trump administration stepping in late to help broker a ceasefire and avert a possible nuclear crisis. Then, former NSA and CIA director Gen. Michael Hayden issues a stark warning about the dangers of personal loyalty tests in national security—raising concerns about competence, dissent, and decision-making at the highest levels. Finally, the guys examine President Trump’s controversial plan to accept a former Qatari royal jet as a temporary Air Force One, weighing the security, ethical, and logistical risks of putting the president aboard a previously foreign-owned aircraft.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"From missiles to ceasefire: how India and Pakistan pulled back from the brink" by Shah Meer Baloch & Hannah Ellis-Petersen | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/12/how-india-and-pakistan-conflict-turned-from-brink-of-war-to-ceasefire-in-days

"As Truce Seems to Hold, India and Pakistan Both Claim Victory" by Anupreeta Das, Salman Masood & Hari Kumar | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/11/world/asia/india-pakistan-kashmir-ceasefire.html

"Vance called Indian prime minister to encourage ceasefire talks after receiving alarming intelligence, sources say" by Alayna Treene | CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/10/politics/vance-modi-india-pakistan-intelligence

"When It Comes to National Security, Loyalty Tests Should Have No Place" by Gen. Michael Hayden | The Cipher Brief: https://www.thecipherbrief.com/column_article/when-it-comes-to-national-security-loyalty-tests-should-have-no-place

"Trump administration poised to accept 'palace in the sky' as a gift for Trump from Qatar" by Jonathan Karl & Katherine Faulders | ABC News: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-administration-poised-accept-palace-sky-gift-trump/story?id=121680511

"Corruption and a Security Catastrophe in Plane Sight" by Garrett Graff | Doomsday Scenario on Substack: https://www.doomsdayscenario.co/p/corruption-and-a-security-catastrophe-in-plane-sight-c5cd67a113caf678

"Turning Qatar’s Gifted 747 Into Air Force One Will Be Anything But Free" by Howard Altman & Tyler Rogoway | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/turning-qatars-gifted-747-into-air-force-one-will-be-anything-but-free

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.
]]> Sat, 17 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-05-15:/posts/8720797 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep48: Putin’s Sledgehammer: The Wagner Group and Russia’s Collapse into Mercenary Chaos with Candace Rondeaux https://audioboom.com/posts/8719811 48 Putin’s Sledgehammer: The Wagner Group and Russia’s Collapse into Mercenary Chaos with Candace Rondeaux 9 3736 false full Candace Rondeaux joins Chris to unpack the dark mythology and hard realities behind the Wagner Group, drawing from her investigative book Putin’s Sledgehammer. They explore Wagner’s roots in post-Soviet chaos, its fusion of state power and criminal underworlds, and its critical role in Russia’s foreign policy ambitions from Syria to Africa to Ukraine. Candace explains how Wagner became a key tool for circumventing sanctions, selling arms, spreading disinformation, and exporting Russia’s influence under the guise of deniability. They discuss the rise and fall of Yevgeny Prigozhin, Wagner’s shadowy presence in Zelensky’s early presidency, and how the group evolved into today’s “Africa Corps.” Plus: assassination attempts, troll farms, and how a sledgehammer murder became a viral propaganda symbol.

Find more on Candace's research on Wagner here: https://uncoveringwagner.org/

Find Putin's Sledgehammer here: 
https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/candace-rondeaux/putins-sledgehammer/9781541703087/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by TASS & Reuters

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 14 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-05-13:/posts/8719811 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep47: Espresso Martini | Farage Surges, Allies Reject Trumpism, and Waltz’s Ouster https://audioboom.com/posts/8718137 47 Espresso Martini | Farage Surges, Allies Reject Trumpism, and Waltz’s Ouster 9 4897 false full In this week’s Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt dig into a wave of elections across the UK, Canada, and Australia, exploring what they signal for populist movements, center-left parties, and Trump-style politics beyond US borders. They break down the rise of Reform UK, growing concerns over Nigel Farage’s influence, and why British voters seem caught in a cycle of backlash politics. Then, a pair of liberal wins in Canada and Australia suggest that even the faintest whiff of Trumpism remains a liability overseas. Finally, they dissect the demotion of Mike Waltz, explain why combining the roles of secretary of state and national security advisor is historically fraught, and ask whether the Trump White House has learned anything—or simply become more ruthless in its chaos. All that, plus Larry the Cat for PM, the specter of Musk in British politics, and an earnest thank-you to recent reviewers.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

“Farage claims Reform UK local election gains ‘beginning of the end’ for Tories" by Peter Walker, Eleni Courea, and Kiran Stacey | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/may/02/farage-reform-uk-local-elections-beginning-of-the-end-for-tories

"Does Farage own the future?" by Andrew Marr | The New Statesman: https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/uk-politics/2025/05/does-farage-own-the-future

"First Canada, Now Australia: The Trump Factor Boosts Another World Leader in an Election" by Mike Cherney | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/world/first-canada-now-australia-the-trump-factor-boosts-another-world-leader-in-a-close-election-bef1c5a1

“Inside Mike Waltz’s White House Exit" by Isaac Stanley-Becker, Ashley Parker, Jonathan Lemire & Shane Harris | The Atlantic: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/05/03/waltz-trump-israel

"Inside Waltz’s ouster: Before Signalgate, talks with Israel angered Trump" by Michael Birnbaum, John Hudson, Emily Davies, Sarah Ellison & Natalie Allison | The Washington Post: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/05/mike-waltz-trump-fired/682660

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by Daniel Torok/White House

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 10 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-05-09:/posts/8718137 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep46: Surviving Corruption, Surveillance, and Cybercrime in Putin’s Russia with Bruce Talley https://audioboom.com/posts/8716732 46 Surviving Corruption, Surveillance, and Cybercrime in Putin’s Russia with Bruce Talley 9 6486 false full Chris chats with Bruce Talley, a former Russia-based businessman who now helps foreign companies set up operations in Ukraine and matches investors with projects

They explore the complex nature of doing business in Russia, including how it’s changed since the 1990s, the red flags Talley missed, and the moment he realized the system was irredeemably corrupt. He shares what it’s like to be surveilled by the FSB, the limits of Western legal remedies, and how Russia’s criminal networks evolved into tools of statecraft. They also discuss the risks facing Western investors, the Kremlin’s strategy of normalized theft, and what Bruce’s work today reveals about the intersection of cybercrime and geopolitical power.

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Bruce’s blog: http://brucetalley.com

Bruce’s company, Destination Ukraine: https://destination-ukraine.com 

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photo by Shamil Zhumatov/Reuters & Sergei Guneyev/AP

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 07 May 2025 15:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-05-07:/posts/8716732 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep45: Espresso Martini | India Eyes Retaliation, a Mysterious Russian Satellite, and New Saudi Links to 9/11 https://audioboom.com/posts/8714716 45 Espresso Martini | India Eyes Retaliation, a Mysterious Russian Satellite, and New Saudi Links to 9/11 9 4773 false full This week, Chris and Matt unpack surging tensions between India and Pakistan following a devastating terror attack in Kashmir—will India retaliate, and could it spiral out of control? Then, new evidence links a Saudi national to 9/11, reigniting old questions about the kingdom’s role in the plot and whether a reckoning is overdue. They also explore a malfunctioning Russian military satellite, possibly a testbed for a space-based nuclear weapons program, and what it means for Starlink and future great power conflicts. Finally, a tragic and bizarre story: a CIA deputy director’s son is killed in Ukraine, fighting for Russia.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"India-Pakistan Tensions On Verge Of Erupting After Deadly Terror Attack" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/india-pakistan-tensions-on-verge-of-erupting-after-deadly-terror-attack

"Pakistan warns of an Indian attack, while quietly urging de-escalation" by Shaiq Hussain and Rick Noack | The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/04/30/pakistan-india-kashmir-pahalgam-conflict/

"What 9/11 evidence unsealed in court reveals years after the attacks" by Cecilia Vega, Aliza Chasan, Richard Bonin, and Mirella Brussani | CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bayoumi-september-11-evidence-60-minutes/

"Russian satellite at centre of nuclear weapons allegations is spinning out of control, analysts say" by Joey Roulette | Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/russian-satellite-linked-nuclear-weapon-program-appears-out-control-us-analysts-2025-04-25/

"Is Russia’s Cosmos 2553 satellite a test for a future orbital nuclear weapon?" by Theresa Hitchens | Breaking Defense: https://breakingdefense.com/2024/05/is-russias-cosmos-2553-satellite-a-test-for-a-future-orbital-nuclear-weapon/

"Son of CIA deputy director was killed while fighting for Russia, report says" by Andrew Roth | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/25/michael-alexander-gloss-cia-russia

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by AP & Tauseef Mustafa/AFP

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 03 May 2025 08:14:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-05-02:/posts/8714716 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep44: Is Peace Possible for Ukraine? with Dr. Taras Kuzio https://audioboom.com/posts/8713369 44 Is Peace Possible for Ukraine? with Dr. Taras Kuzio 9 3552 false full This week, Chris is joined by Dr. Taras Kuzio for an on-the-ground look at Ukraine’s evolving war effort and the political battle over peace negotiations. Dr. Kuzio discusses daily life in Kyiv amid ongoing conflict, growing anger toward the Trump administration’s approach, and why Trump’s pressure campaign on Ukraine risks emboldening Russia and destabilizing Europe. They explore myths about Russia’s military power, the tightening Russia-China-North Korea axis, NATO’s future divisions, and Ukraine’s remarkable growth in domestic weapons production. Plus, they examine the dangers of Western illusions about Russia, the strategic importance of Crimea, and how Ukraine’s innovation and resilience could shape the next phase of the war.

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Connect with Dr Kuzio on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/TarasKuzio

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by OSV News/Ukrainian Presidential Press Service

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:08:55 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-30:/posts/8713369 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep43: Espresso Martini | Hegseth on the Ropes, Putin’s Diplomat Spy, and Listener Questions https://audioboom.com/posts/8711435 43 Espresso Martini | Hegseth on the Ropes, Putin’s Diplomat Spy, and Listener Questions 9 4806 false full This week, Chris and Matt unpack the deepening chaos at the Pentagon as Pete Hegseth’s tenure as secretary of defense continues to spiral. From more leaked strike plans on Signal to staff purges and his wife sitting in on sensitive meetings, the dysfunction is reaching new lows. Then, a little-known Russian spymaster emerges as a key player in Ukraine peace talks, just as far-right ideologues inside Russia insist on total victory at any cost. Plus, listener questions on Europe’s military independence, Bulgaria’s role in Russian espionage, and the EU’s Orbán problem.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Info Hegseth shared with wife and brother came from top general's secure messages" by Courtney Kube & Gordon Lubold | NBC News: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/info-pete-hegseth-shared-wife-brother-came-top-generals-secure-message-rcna198838

"Under Hegseth, Chaos Prevails at the Pentagon" by Greg Jaffe & Helene Cooper | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/22/us/politics/hegseth-chaos-pentagon.html

"The White House is looking to replace Pete Hegseth as defense secretary" by Tom Bowman & Quil Lawrence | NPR: https://www.npr.org/2025/04/21/nx-s1-5371312/trump-white-house-pete-hegseth-defense-department

"Hegseth Said to Have Shared Attack Details in Second Signal Chat" by Greg Jaffe, Eric Schmitt & Maggie Haberman | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/20/us/politics/hegseth-yemen-attack-second-signal-chat.html

"Two top Pentagon officials placed on leave in leak probe" by Daniel Lippman & Jack Detsch | Politico: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/15/caldwell-pentagon-leaks-00291735

"Real reason Pete Hegseth's wife Jennifer Rauchet won't let him out of her sight …and the secret nickname she has earned from Pentagon staffers" by Susan Greene | Daily Mail: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14636555/pete-hegseth-wife-jennifer-rauchet-pentagon-secret-nickname-staffers.html

"Who is Sergey Beseda, Russian spy handler leading talks with US?" by Kateryna Denisova | The Kyiv Independent: https://kyivindependent.com/sergey-beseda-russias-negotiator-in-saudi-arabia-and-his-role-in-ukraines-war/

"The Russian Nationalists Pushing for Ukraine’s Destruction" by Giovanni Pigni | New Lines Magazine: https://newlinesmag.com/reportage/the-russian-nationalists-pushing-for-victory-in-ukraine/

"Sweden’s Bigger Badder Gripen Fighter Packs A Lot Of Punch In An Incredibly Efficient Package" by Jamie Hunter | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/39081/swedens-bigger-badder-gripen-fighter-packs-a-lot-of-punch-in-an-incredibly-efficient-package

"Escalating Trade War Raises Questions Over Canada’s F-35 Future" by Thomas Newdick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/escalating-trade-war-raises-questions-over-canadas-f-35-future

"A Weak Link in NATO? Bulgaria, Russia, and the Lure of Espionage" by Mark Kramer | Davis Center for Russian & Eurasian Studies: https://daviscenter.fas.harvard.edu/insights/weak-link-nato-bulgaria-russia-and-lure-espionage

Thanks for listener questions from Julie, Sam, and Richard!

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
Photos by Eric Lee/NYT and Sgt. 1st Class Marisol Walker/US Army

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 26 Apr 2025 06:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-25:/posts/8711435 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep42: Russia’s Shadow War Against NATO with Florian Flade https://audioboom.com/posts/8709371 42 Russia’s Shadow War Against NATO with Florian Flade 9 4347 false full Chris welcomes back national security journalist Florian Flade to unpack Russia’s shadow war against NATO. They examine Moscow’s escalating hybrid attacks across Europe—from sabotage and arson to drone incursions and attempted assassinations—and how Russia recruits low-level agents via Telegram and even AI-driven chatbots. Florian details arson plots, suspicious drone activity near critical infrastructure, infiltration of the German Navy, and a parcel bomb campaign stretching from Lithuania to the UK. They also explore how Russia exploits legal loopholes, overwhelms under-resourced security services, and uses these operations to map NATO’s vulnerabilities. Plus, an alleged assassination plot in Frankfurt, concerns about escalation, and why European security services may still be underprepared for what’s coming.

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Follow Florian’s blog and connect on social media

Florian’s reporting discussed in the episode

“Cluster of New Drone Sightings in the North” by lorian Flade, Manuel Bewarder, and Benedikt Strunz: https://www.tagesschau.de/investigativ/ndr-wdr/drohnen-ueberfluege-102.html

“Sabotage of Navy Warships” by Manuel Bewarder and Florian Flade: https://www.tagesschau.de/investigativ/ndr-wdr/sabotage-marine-ostsee-102.html

“Russian Intelligence Service Suspected Behind Sabotage” by Manuel Bewarder, Florian Flade, and Sebastian Pittelkow: https://www.tagesschau.de/investigativ/ndr-wdr/russland-sabotage-106.html

“The Man with Many Identities” by Florian Flade, Antonius Kempmann and Palina Milling: https://www.tagesschau.de/investigativ/ndr-wdr/ukraine-russland-spionage-102.html

“Arrests Including for Espionage Activities and Membership in the Foreign Terrorist Organization ‘Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR)’” by the Federal Attorney General’s Office: https://www.generalbundesanwalt.de/SharedDocs/Pressemitteilungen/DE/2024/Pressemitteilung-vom-18-04-2024.html

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:41:42 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-23:/posts/8709371 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep41: Body Language and Lie Detection with Gavin Stone https://audioboom.com/posts/8707554 41 Body Language and Lie Detection with Gavin Stone 9 3695 false full Chris sits down with Gavin Stone—former covert operative, body language expert, and best-selling author—to explore the subtle science of reading people. They delve into the art of lie detection, psychological manipulation, and the power of nonverbal cues in high-risk environments. Drawing on two decades of frontline HUMINT experience, Gavin shares insights from a career spent tracking threats, training operatives, and mastering deception detection. From surveillance tradecraft to the fine line between influence and control, this episode offers a fascinating look at how operatives really interpret human behavior—and what the rest of us can learn from it.

Find more about Gavin: https://www.convenzis.co.uk/speakers/gavin-stone

Gavin’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GavinStoneAuthor

Find Gavin’s book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Gavin-Stone/author/B015HWIKGG.

Spy Q event: https://spy-q.com/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 19 Apr 2025 08:31:25 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-19:/posts/8707554 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep40: God’s Banker and the Vatican’s Cold War Secrets with Nicolo Majnoni https://audioboom.com/posts/8704097 40 God’s Banker and the Vatican’s Cold War Secrets with Nicolo Majnoni 9 3248 false full This week, Matt speaks with Nicolo Majnoni, host of Shadow Kingdom, a gripping new investigative podcast from Crooked Media and Campside Media. The first season explores the mysterious June 1982 death of Roberto Calvi—known as “God’s Banker”—and his ties to the Vatican, organized crime, and secret societies at the height of Italy’s Cold War turmoil. They unpack Calvi’s downfall, the shadowy institutions behind it, and what this story reveals about how power operates in the dark. They also discuss the Vatican’s covert influence, how conspiracies blur into history, and what it means to tell stories when the truth remains elusive.

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Listen to Shadow Kingdom: God’s Banker: https://crooked.com/podcast-series/shadow-kingdom/

Find more about Nicolo: https://www.nicolomajnoni.com

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by Arin Sang-urai, Phillip Jackson/DailyMail & Canva

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-12:/posts/8704097 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep39: Espresso Martini | Trump’s Special Economic Operation, NSA Purge, and the FBI in Turmoil https://audioboom.com/posts/8703829 39 Espresso Martini | Trump’s Special Economic Operation, NSA Purge, and the FBI in Turmoil 9 3688 true full Chris and Matt unpack the surreal ousting of top U.S. national security officials after far-right influencer Laura Loomer walked into the Oval Office with a hit list. They assess the fallout for cyber defenses, the politicization of the FBI, and the broader dismantling of U.S. institutions under Trump’s second term. Then, they turn to Trump’s sweeping trade war, its global blowback, and what Wall Street really thinks. Plus, a respected Chinese-American scientist disappears after an FBI raid, and Japan unveils a new generation of long-range missiles as it prepares for a more dangerous Pacific.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"How Right Wing Influencer Laura Loomer Targeted Top Security Officials" by Dustin Volz, Vera Bergengruen & Alexander Ward | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/how-right-wing-influencer-laura-loomer-targeted-top-security-officials-0b002715

"The Conspiracy Theorist Advising Trump" by Tom Nichols | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/archive/2025/04/the-conspiracy-theorist-advising-trump/682289/

"I was a Top Leader at the FBI. What I Saw This Year Was Deeply Worrying. It Should Concern You Too." by John Sullivan | Substack: https://substack.com/home/post/p-160799346

"Will Russia Come Out a Winner in Trump’s Trade Wars" by Moscow Times Reporter | The Moscow Times: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2025/04/03/will-russia-come-out-a-winner-in-trumps-trade-wars-a88238

"Russia not on Trump's tariff list" by Vitaliy Shevchenko | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdjl3k1we8vo

"Trump has turned his back on the foundation of US economic might - the fallout will be messy" by Faisal Islam | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp34nkj1kv2o

"Cybersecurity Professor Faced China-Funding Inquiry Before Disappearing, Sources Say" by Zeyi Yang, Louise Matsakis & Caroline Haskins | WIRED: https://www.wired.com/story/xiaofeng-wang-indiana-university-research-probe-china/

"FBI raids home of prominent computer scientist who has gone incommunicado" by Dan Goodin | Ars Technica: https://arstechnica.com/security/2025/03/computer-scientist-goes-silent-after-fbi-raid-and-purging-from-university-website/

"Japan develops new missiles designed to repel an invasion" by Leilani Chavez | Defense News: https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2025/04/03/japan-develops-new-missiles-designed-to-repel-an-invasion/

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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 12 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-11:/posts/8703829 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep38: Photographing Area 51 with Michał Rokita https://audioboom.com/posts/8702037 38 Photographing Area 51 with Michał Rokita 9 3605 false full Photographer and field researcher Michał Rokita joins Matt to discuss his rare and meticulous efforts to document one of the world’s most secretive military sites: Area 51. From hiking remote peaks in the Nevada desert to capturing panoramic images from over 20 miles away, Michał shares what it takes to legally photograph Groom Lake from public land. They explore the history of the Dreamland Interceptors, the challenges of desert spotting, and the moments he’s witnessed — stealth fighters, unannounced landings, and one night when his presence may have scrubbed a secret test flight. It’s a real-world look at Area 51, far from the conspiracy theories, and the dedicated hobbyists preserving its history from a distance.

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Find Michał’s trip reports, photos, and more about Area 51’s history at Dreamland Resort: https://www.dreamlandresort.com/team/michal.html
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Read Dreamland: The Secret History of Area 51 by Peter Merlin: https://schifferbooks.com/products/dreamland
Listen to Matt’s interview with Peter: https://audioboom.com/posts/8434360-the-secret-history-of-area-51-with-peter-merlin

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
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Photos by Michał Rokita

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 09 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-08:/posts/8702037 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep37: Espresso Martini | Signalgate with Shane Harris, Boeing’s F-47, and Remembering Oleg Gordievsky https://audioboom.com/posts/8700599 37 Espresso Martini | Signalgate with Shane Harris, Boeing’s F-47, and Remembering Oleg Gordievsky 9 5649 false full The Atlantic’s Shane Harris joins Chris and Matt to unpack Signalgate, the extraordinary national security scandal where top Trump officials coordinated airstrikes over Signal and accidentally included a journalist in the group chat. They discuss the operational fallout, legal implications, and the strain on Five Eyes allies. Then, they dive into the reveal of Boeing’s F-47, the U.S. Air Force’s first sixth-generation fighter and potential final manned combat jet. Finally, Chris remembers legendary KGB defector Oleg Gordievsky and his legacy for British intelligence.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"The Trump Administration Accidentally Texted Me Its War Plans" by Jeffrey Goldberg | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/03/trump-administration-accidentally-texted-me-its-war-plans/682151/

"Here Are the Attack Plans That Trump’s Advisers Shared on Signal" by Jeffrey Goldberg & Shane Harris | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/03/signal-group-chat-attack-plans-hegseth-goldberg/682176/

"A Rare Moment of Bipartisan Disbelief" by Mark Leibovich | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/03/trump-cabinet-security-leak/682172/

"Signal Chat Leak Angers U.S. Military Pilots" by Helene Cooper & Eric Schmitt | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/27/us/politics/pilots-signal-leak.html

"Waltz and staff used Gmail for government communications, officials say" by John Hudson | The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/04/01/waltz-national-security-council-signal-gmail/

"Hegseth’s younger brother is serving in a key role as liaison and senior adviser inside the Pentagon" by Tara Copp | Associated Press: https://apnews.com/article/hegseth-brother-signal-dhs-hired-68678a8a653c79a4c6ae31a8bee64836

"Hegseth Brought His Wife to Sensitive Meetings With Foreign Military Officials" by Katherine Long, Max Colchester, Daniel Michaels & Lindsay Wise | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/hegseth-brought-his-wife-to-sensitive-meetings-with-foreign-military-officials-c16db0ea

"'Should I Fire Him?’ Inside Trump’s Deliberations Over the Fate of Michael Waltz" by Maggie Haberman & Tyler Page | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/29/us/politics/trump-signal-michael-waltz.html

"Waltz’s team set up at least 20 Signal group chats for crises across the world" by Dasha Burns | Politico: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/02/waltzs-team-set-up-at-least-20-signal-group-chats-for-crises-across-the-world-00266845

"Signal for Secure Comms: Convenience Over Security Without the Record-Keeping" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/signal-for-secure-comms-convenience-over-security-without-the-record-keeping

"Boeing Wins F-47 Next Generation Air Dominance Fighter Contract" by Thomas Newdick & Tyler Rogoway | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/boeing-wins-air-forces-next-generation-air-dominance-fighter-contract

"F-47 Was Born Out of Secret X-Planes Built by Both Boeing and Lockheed" by Tyler Rogoway | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/f-47-was-born-out-of-secret-x-planes-built-by-both-boeing-and-lockheed

"Oleg Gordievsky, K.G.B. Officer Turned Double Agent, Dies at 86" by Clay Risen | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/26/world/europe/oleg-gordievsky-dead.html

"The Godalming Connection: The Curious Surrey Saga of Fleming, Bond, Putin & the KGB Colonel" by Mark O’Connell: https://markoconnell.co.uk/the-godalming-connection-the-curious-surrey-saga-of-bond-fleming-putin-and-the-kgb-colonel/

More about Shane Harris

Read Shane’s work at The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/author/shane-harris/
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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 05 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-05:/posts/8700599 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep36: Sell Like a Spy: What Business Can Learn from Intelligence Officers with Jeremy Hurewitz https://audioboom.com/posts/8699032 36 Sell Like a Spy: What Business Can Learn from Intelligence Officers with Jeremy Hurewitz 9 3082 false full What can business leaders learn from spies? In this episode, Chris speaks with Jeremy Hurewitz, author of Sell Like a Spy, to explore how intelligence officers build trust, read people, and influence outcomes. Drawing on years spent working alongside former CIA, FBI, and military professionals in the world of corporate security, Jeremy shares real-world techniques—like mirroring, elicitation, and active listening—that can transform how we sell, lead, and connect. They also discuss the ethics of private intelligence, how Hollywood gets espionage wrong, and why emotional intelligence matters more than ever in a tech-driven world.

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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 02 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-04-02:/posts/8699032 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep35: Eric O’Neill on Cybersecurity and Catching One of America’s Most Infamous Spies https://audioboom.com/posts/8696339 35 Eric O’Neill on Cybersecurity and Catching One of America’s Most Infamous Spies 9 3645 false full Former FBI counterintelligence specialist Eric O’Neill joins Chris to recount his mission to help capture one of the most damaging spies in American history: Robert Hanssen. They discuss Hanssen’s transformation from a wannabe Bond into a real-life cyber mole, his staggering betrayal of US intelligence, and how O’Neill built trust with a man he knew he had to take down. Eric also shares how the Hanssen case shaped his transition into cybersecurity, explores the rise of cybercrime as a $12 trillion black-market economy, and explains why AI deepfakes, ransomware, and social engineering attacks pose growing threats to national security and everyday life.

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Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 29 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-03-28:/posts/8696339 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep34: Is China’s Military Ready for War? PLA Readiness, Regime Stability, and Taiwan with Timothy Heath https://audioboom.com/posts/8694654 34 Is China’s Military Ready for War? PLA Readiness, Regime Stability, and Taiwan with Timothy Heath 9 2952 false full Is the Chinese military really ready for war? In this episode, Chris and Matt speak with Timothy Heath, a senior international defense researcher at RAND Corporation, about his provocative new report The Chinese Military’s Doubtful Combat Readiness. Heath argues that the PLA remains deeply shaped by its political mission to preserve CCP rule—and is poorly optimized for high-end combat. They discuss how China’s military modernization masks enduring political constraints, why in his view war over Taiwan remains unlikely, and what China might do instead to challenge US interests through proxy warfare, cyber, and global coercion. Heath also explores the CCP’s legitimacy crisis, China’s evolving strategic partnerships with Russia and Iran, and why the specter of global systemic war can’t be ruled out.

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Read Timothy’s reporting

The Chinese Military's Doubtful Combat Readiness: https://www.rand.org/pubs/perspectives/PEA830-1.html

Timothy’s other work for the RAND Corporation: https://www.rand.org/about/people/h/heath_timothy_r.html

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-03-25:/posts/8694654 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep33: Espresso Martini | Putin’s Dilemma, Moscow’s Play in Africa, and Listener Questions https://audioboom.com/posts/8692967 33 Espresso Martini | Putin’s Dilemma, Moscow’s Play in Africa, and Listener Questions 9 4897 true full Putin hesitates on Ukraine's ceasefire, Trump plays shuttle diplomacy, and the West braces for Russia’s next move. We break down Mark Galeotti’s take on Putin’s indecisiveness and Trump’s latest call with Moscow. Plus, Russia’s ghost ships in Libya—what’s behind Moscow’s growing influence in North Africa? Then, we tackle listener questions: Is the West retaliating against Russian undersea sabotage? Will NATO stand by Denmark over Greenland? And is Trump trying to pull a “Nixon to China” move with Russia? We wrap up with a former MI6 officer stepping out of the shadows for a very British cause. All that and more in this week’s Espresso Martini.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Ukraine talks show that ‘macho’ Putin hates tough decisions" by Mark Galeotti | The Times: https://www.thetimes.com/world/russia-ukraine-war/article/ukraine-peace-deal-is-on-trump-time-putin-may-miss-his-moment-n58zc7glm

"Trump says Russia-Ukraine 'on track’ for ceasefire after Zelensky call" by Barak Ravid | Axios: https://www.axios.com/2025/03/19/trump-zelensky-call-russia-ceasefire

"Russia’s ghost ships haunt Libya" by David Kenner | ICIJ: https://www.icij.org/news/2025/03/russias-ghost-ships-haunt-libya/

"Former intelligence agent to host talk for Suffolk Church" by Oil Picton | Ipswich Star: https://www.ipswichstar.co.uk/news/24999442.former-intelligence-agent-host-talk-suffolk-church/

Thanks for listener questions from Richard, Daniel, and Michael!

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 22 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-03-22:/posts/8692967 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep32: Who Will Defend Europe? with Keir Giles https://audioboom.com/posts/8691298 32 Who Will Defend Europe? with Keir Giles 9 3617 false full Chris is joined by Keir Giles, a senior consulting fellow at Chatham House and author of Who Will Defend Europe?, to discuss the looming threat of Russian aggression and Europe’s unpreparedness for war. They dig into the failure of Western governments to heed repeated warnings about Moscow’s ambitions, the dangerous reliance on outdated post-Cold War assumptions, and the consequences of US disengagement from European security. Keir breaks down Russia’s long-range strike capabilities, its military adaptation in Ukraine, and the likelihood of future conflicts—including whether a NATO country could be next. They also examine Trump’s approach to Russia, the vulnerability of Western societies to Russian influence, and how Europe must step up its own defense before it’s too late.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wSWUv-1brdY

More about Keir and his work

Keir’s analysis for Chatham House’s Russia & Eurasia Programme: https://www.chathamhouse.org/about-us/our-people/keir-giles

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Chris is joined by Keir Giles, a senior consulting fellow at Chatham House and author of Who Will Defend Europe?, to discuss the looming threat of Russian aggression and Europe’s unpreparedness for war. Thu, 20 Mar 2025 08:22:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-03-19:/posts/8691298 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep31: Espresso Martini | A Russian Spy Ring in the UK, Ukraine’s Ceasefire Gamble, and AI Warships on the Horizon https://audioboom.com/posts/8672555 31 Espresso Martini | A Russian Spy Ring in the UK, Ukraine’s Ceasefire Gamble, and AI Warships on the Horizon 9 4578 true full Another Russian spy ring in the UK is exposed—what were they up to, and what does it reveal about Moscow’s intelligence operations? Chris and Matt dive into the details of the case, including a botched plot to track Ukrainian soldiers and bizarre honey trap plans. Then, they break down the latest on the Ukraine ceasefire proposal. Will Putin play ball, or is this just a naive delay tactic? Plus, the US Navy’s new autonomous warship raises big questions about the future of naval warfare, and they analyze the claim that “Putin has won.” Has he really? All that and more in this week’s Espresso Martini.

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Articles discussed in today’s episode

"'The dumbest thing I’ve ever done': spy trial’s tales of scheming, bluster and a love triangle" by Dan Sabbagh | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/07/spy-trial-scheming-bluster-tangled-relationships

"Bulgarian trio convicted of conspiring to spy for Russia" | Crown Prosecution Service: https://www.cps.gov.uk/cps/news/bulgarian-trio-convicted-conspiring-spy-russia

"Trump’s Ukraine ceasefire plan: What we know so far" by Tim Ross | Politico Europe: https://www.politico.eu/article/donald-trump-ceasefire-plan-ukraine-jeddah-saudi-arabia-russia-fighting/

"Mysterious Naval Vessel Spotted In Washington State Is A New DARPA Drone Ship" by Joseph Trevithick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/sea/mysterious-naval-vessel-spotted-in-washington-state-is-a-new-darpa-drone-ship

"Putin Won" by Franklin Foer | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/03/putin-russia-won/681959/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:55:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-03-14:/posts/8672555 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep30: Mission Iran: Behind the Scenes of Operation Eagle Claw with James Stejskal https://audioboom.com/posts/8666250 30 Mission Iran: Behind the Scenes of Operation Eagle Claw with James Stejskal 9 2479 false full Guest host and spy thriller writer Stephen England sits down with James Stejskal, a former US Army Special Forces soldier, CIA officer, historian, and author. They discuss Stejskal’s journey from special operations and intelligence work to writing both fiction and nonfiction. The conversation focuses on Mission Iran, his latest book, which uncovers Special Forces Detachment A’s covert role in Operation Eagle Claw, the 1980 mission to rescue American hostages in Tehran. Stejskal shares firsthand insights into the mission, the dynamics between Special Forces, the CIA, and the State Department, and how his experience in the field shaped his writing. They also explore his Snake Eater Chronicles thrillers, his research into Cold War Berlin, and his upcoming novel, The Rat Catcher of Berlin. Along the way, Stejskal reflects on the reality of intelligence operations, the challenges of writing both history and fiction, and the enduring influence of special operations forces in modern conflicts.

Don’t miss this deep dive into espionage history, real-world spycraft, and how it translates into gripping storytelling.

Connect with James on his website: https://jamesstejskal.wordpress.com/
Follow James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/James-Stejskal-Writer/100063534272964/
Find Mission Iran and James’ other books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/James-Stejskal/author/B00NXOQG4Y

More about Stephen England: https://www.stephenenglandbooks.com/
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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Mon, 10 Mar 2025 07:40:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-03-09:/posts/8666250 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep29: Espresso Martini | The Oval Office Debacle and a Reckoning for the Western Alliance https://audioboom.com/posts/8665907 29 Espresso Martini | The Oval Office Debacle and a Reckoning for the Western Alliance 9 5138 true full This week’s Espresso Martini is unlike any other. Chris and Matt take a deep dive into the future of the transatlantic relationship after the disastrous White House meeting between Trump, Vance, and Zelenskyy. They unpack the fallout, the shifting US stance on Ukraine, and the broader implications for NATO and European security. A raw, emotional, and unfiltered discussion on a critical moment in world affairs—one where the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Subscribe and share to stay ahead in the world of intelligence, geopolitics, and current affairs.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DRqFtzQ_orA

Articles discussed in today’s episode

"At Least Now We Know the Truth About Trump and Vance" by David Frum | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/02/least-now-we-know-truth-about-trump-and-vance/681872/

"How JD Vance emerged as the chief saboteur of the transatlantic alliance" by Andrew Roth | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/28/jd-vance-volodymyr-zelenskyy

"Trump officials fume at Zelenskyy for disregarding advice before meeting" by Hugo Lowell | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/01/trump-officials-zelenskyy

"Five Dispassionate Ways of Looking at Today's Oval Office Blow-Up" by Dan Drezner | Drezner’s World Substack: https://danieldrezner.substack.com/p/five-dispassionate-ways-of-looking

"Breaking Down the U.S.-Ukraine Minerals Deal" by Gracelin Baskaran & Meredith Schwartz | Center for Strategic & International Studies: https://www.csis.org/analysis/breaking-down-us-ukraine-minerals-deal

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 08 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-03-07:/posts/8665907 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep28: Shane Harris on the US Intelligence Community in Crisis https://audioboom.com/posts/8664355 28 Shane Harris on the US Intelligence Community in Crisis 9 3621 false full The Trump administration’s national security team is in place, and the intelligence community is feeling the shock. Elon Musk’s "Department of Government Efficiency" has infiltrated federal agencies, intelligence officials are resigning or being purged, and US allies are questioning how much they can still trust Washington. In this episode, The Atlantic’s Shane Harris joins Matt to assess the state of the US intelligence community one month into Trump’s second term. They discuss the FBI shake-up under Kash Patel and Dan Bongino, Musk’s DOGE operatives posing an unprecedented counterintelligence risk, and whether Five Eyes can survive another four years. Plus, is the intelligence community still a viable career path for those who believe in its mission?

Read Shane’s work at The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/author/shane-harris/

Follow Shane on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/shaneharris.bsky.social
Follow Shane on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/shaneharris

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/G50obIZatz0

Shane’s reporting discussed in the episode:

"Trump’s Military Purge Has Washington Asking 'Who’s Next?'" by Shane Harris & Jonathan Lemire: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/02/cq-brown-joint-chiefs-chairman-fired/681804/

"This Is What Happens When the DOGE Guys Take Over" by Michael Scherer, Ashley Parker, Matteo Wong & Shane Harris: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/02/doge-musk-federal-agencies-takeover/681744/

"Elon Musk Is Breaking the National-Security System": https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2025/02/doge-intelligence-agencies-harm/681667/

"The Spies Are Shown the Door": https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2025/02/trump-intelligence-agency-buyouts/681589/

"FBI Agents Are Stunned by the Scale of the Expected Trump Purge": https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/01/trump-fbi-revenge-firings/681538/

"Trump’s First Shot in His War on the 'Deep State'": https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/01/trump-executive-order-security/681423/

"The Rise of John Ratcliffe": https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2025/01/ratcliffe-dni-cia-trump/681197/

"Trump’s 'Deep State' Revenge": https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2024/11/intelligence-agencies-trump-loyalists/680625/ 

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 05 Mar 2025 13:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-03-05:/posts/8664355 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep27: Espresso Martini | Trump’s FBI Shake-Up, China’s Military Buildup, and James Bond’s Future https://audioboom.com/posts/8662446 27 Espresso Martini | Trump’s FBI Shake-Up, China’s Military Buildup, and James Bond’s Future 9 5394 true full Chris and Matt discuss Dan Bongino’s appointment as FBI deputy director, signaling a dramatic shift in federal law enforcement and raising alarms about political loyalty over experience while Trump’s broader FBI purge faces internal resistance. Meanwhile, as the war in Ukraine enters its third year, polling challenges assumptions about the Global South’s stance on the conflict, revealing a divide between government policies and public sentiment. In the Indo-Pacific, a new report warns that China’s military modernization may be more about political control than combat readiness, despite its growing arsenal. And finally, former CIA officer John Sipher takes aim at Hollywood’s spy fantasies, arguing that real intelligence work is more about trust and tradecraft than rooftop chases—just as Amazon’s billion-dollar takeover of James Bond raises new questions about the franchise’s future.

Subscribe and share to stay ahead in the world of intelligence, geopolitics, and current affairs.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9H2nB56zRwQ

Articles discussed in today’s episode

"How Dan Bongino Went From Infowars to FBI Deputy Director" by David Gilbert | Wired: https://www.wired.com/story/dan-bongino-fbi-deputy-director-infowars/

"Inside Patel’s first week: Internal upheaval at the FBI – some of his own making" by Even Perez | CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/27/politics/kash-patel-first-week-fbi/index.html

"The Global South’s Views on Ukraine Are More Complex Than You May Think" by Michael Karadjis | New Lines Magazine: https://newlinesmag.com/argument/the-global-souths-views-on-ukraine-are-more-complex-than-you-may-think/

"Is China’s military really built for war? New report questions Beijing’s arms buildup" by Brad Lendon | CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/16/china/china-military-readiness-rand-report-intl-hnk-ml/index.html

"The Chinese Military's Doubtful Combat Readiness" by Timothy R. Heath | RAND Corporation: https://www.rand.org/pubs/perspectives/PEA830-1.html

"The Car Chase to Nowhere: Hollywood & Spies" by John Sipher | Tomorrow’s Affairs: https://tomorrowsaffairs.com/the-car-chase-to-nowhere-hollywood-spies

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 01 Mar 2025 11:45:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-02-28:/posts/8662446 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep26: Dr. Taras Kuzio on Ukraine & Trump Peace Negotiations https://audioboom.com/posts/8660513 26 Dr. Taras Kuzio on Ukraine & Trump Peace Negotiations 9 3756 false full In this conversation, Dr. Taras Kuzio provides an in-depth analysis of the ongoing war in Ukraine, discussing the current military status, the technological innovations being utilized by Ukraine, and the geopolitical implications of the conflict. He emphasizes the challenges faced by the Russian military and the evolving dynamics of international support for Ukraine.

The discussion also touches on the complexities of peace negotiations and the trust issues surrounding the Trump administration's proposals regarding Ukraine's resources. Chris and Taras delve into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy regarding the Ukraine conflict, examining the implications of Trump's statements, NATO membership, and the Biden administration's approach to territorial integrity. They discuss the challenges of negotiating peace with Russia, the dynamics of European defense spending, and the geopolitical landscape involving China and Israel's position in the conflict.

The conversation highlights the intricate interplay of international relations and the historical context shaping current events.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YJ3V8CrBjDI

Connect with Dr Kuzio: https://twitter.com/TarasKuzio

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Wed, 26 Feb 2025 19:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-02-26:/posts/8660513 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep25: David Neiwert on Authoritarianism, Trump, Jan 6, and Antifa https://audioboom.com/posts/8658423 25 David Neiwert on Authoritarianism, Trump, Jan 6, and Antifa 9 4575 true full In this episode of Secrets and Spies, David Neiwert discussed his reporting on right-wing extremism, focusing on the MAGA movement's authoritarian tendencies, online influence, and the role of masculinity. He analysed the January 6th insurrection as a result of Trump-fueled extremism and warned about the potential for further political violence, specifically targeting minorities and immigrants, while addressing the mischaracterisation of Antifa. Neiwert emphasised the dangers of extremist infiltration into law enforcement and the military, the importance of community defence, and the need to recognise the real threats posed by far-right ideologies.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CicnpPUexI0

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Follow David on social media

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:45:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-02-24:/posts/8658423 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep24: Espresso Martini | The GRU’s New Black Ops Unit, Russian Hybrid Warfare in Britain, and Listener Questions https://audioboom.com/posts/8657587 24 Espresso Martini | The GRU’s New Black Ops Unit, Russian Hybrid Warfare in Britain, and Listener Questions 9 5726 true full Russia’s latest covert warfare escalations take center stage in this week’s Espresso Martini. Chris and Matt unpack the emergence of the GRU’s Department of Special Tasks, a new clandestine unit coordinating assassinations, sabotage, and hybrid warfare operations against the West. They also break down an alarming report on a Russia-linked Telegram network inciting terrorism and hate crimes in the UK—just another front in Moscow’s war of destabilization. Plus, listener questions on the dilemmas of counterterrorism, the future of Five Eyes under Trump, and top spy books, both fiction and non-fiction.

Subscribe and share to stay ahead in the world of intelligence, geopolitics, and current affairs.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/O_uErvzy13o

Articles discussed in today’s episode

"A New Spy Unit Is Leading Russia’s Shadow War Against the West" by Bojan Pancevski | The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/world/europe/russia-spy-covert-attacks-8199e376

"A Russia-linked Telegram network is inciting terrorism and is behind hate crimes in the UK" by Gregory Davis | Hope Not Hate: https://hopenothate.org.uk/2025/02/10/exclusive-a-russia-linked-telegram-network-is-inciting-terrorism-and-is-behind-hate-crimes-in-the-uk/

Recommended Spy Reads

In this episode, we share some of our favorite spy books—both fiction and non-fiction. Whether you’re looking for deep dives into real-world espionage or classic spy thrillers, these picks have you covered.

Chris’s Picks: A mix of gripping true stories and classic spy fiction, covering Cold War betrayals, intelligence tradecraft, and covert operations.

Fiction: Agents of Innocence (David Ignatius), Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (John le Carré), Ashenden (W. Somerset Maugham), The Deceiver (Frederick Forsyth), Damascus Station (David McCloskey)

Non-Fiction: Next Stop Execution (Oleg Gordievsky), The Art of Intelligence (Henry Crumpton), The Black Banners (Ali Soufan), The Good Spy (Kai Bird), Spy Master (Helen Fry)

Matt’s Picks: Essential reads on espionage, covert ops, and spycraft—plus some of the genre’s best novels.

Fiction: The Cardinal of the Kremlin (Tom Clancy), The Sum of All Fears (Tom Clancy), Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (John le Carré), The Honourable Schoolboy (John le Carré), Smiley’s People (John le Carré), The Quiet American (Graham Greene)

Non-Fiction: Spycraft (H. Keith Melton), Rise and Kill First (Ronen Bergman), Relentless Strike (Sean Naylor), Killer Elite (Michael Smith), The Targeter (Nada Bakos), Dead Drop (Jeremy Duns), The US Intelligence Community (Jeffrey Richelson)

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies takes you deep inside the world of espionage, terrorism, and international intrigue. Each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 22 Feb 2025 09:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-02-22:/posts/8657587 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep23: Espresso Martini | Trump Targets Cartels, NSA’s Word Purge, and Iran’s Drone Carrier https://audioboom.com/posts/8654225 23 Espresso Martini | Trump Targets Cartels, NSA’s Word Purge, and Iran’s Drone Carrier 9 5321 true full In this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt unpack the latest intelligence, national security, and espionage stories shaping current affairs. First, they examine Trump’s push to classify Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organizations, the spike in U.S. surveillance flights over Mexico, and whether covert military action is on the table. Then, they break down the NSA’s sweeping deletion of 27 “banned words,” including “bias” and “inclusion,” raising serious concerns about politicized intelligence failures. They also dig into Trump’s demand for Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in exchange for U.S. aid and what it signals for Kyiv’s future. Finally, they assess Iran’s unconventional new drone carrier, the Shahid Bagheri—a floating experiment in asymmetric warfare or just a high-risk PR stunt?

Subscribe and share to stay ahead in the world of espionage, geopolitics, and global affairs.

Watch on YouTube
https://youtu.be/hofbhGOk21o

Articles discussed in today’s episode

"How Trump Could Use Military Force Against Cartels In Mexico" by Howard Altman | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/news-features/how-trump-could-use-military-force-against-cartels-in-mexico

"RC-135 Rivet Joint Surveillance Jet Just Flew Unprecedented Mission Off Mexico" by Joseph Trevithick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/air/rc-135-rivet-joint-surveillance-jet-just-flew-unprecedented-mission-off-mexico

"US spy planes hunt for intel on Mexican drug cartels as surveillance flights surge near border" by Avery Schmitz, Katie Bo Lillis, Priscilla Alvarez & Natasha Bertrand | CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/10/politics/us-spy-planes-mexican-drug-cartels/index.html

"The NSA's "Big Delete" by Judd Legum & Rebecca Crosby | Popular Information Substack: https://popular.info/p/the-nsas-big-delete

"Trump says he wants Ukraine’s rare earth elements as a condition of further support" by Zeke Miller | Associated Press: https://apnews.com/article/trump-ukraine-europe-rare-earth-russia-war-9af06a9f17dbaa49a05dcba3a3363977

"Iran’s Wacky Aircraft Carrier Has Entered Service" by Joseph Trevithick | The War Zone: https://www.twz.com/sea/irans-wacky-aircraft-carrier-has-entered-service

Good News:

Secrets & Spies is no. 3 in Feedspot's top ten spy podcasts!
https://podcast.feedspot.com/spy_podcasts/

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies is an enthralling spy podcast that guides listeners on an immersive journey into the hidden realm of espionage, terrorism, geopolitics, and international intrigue. Expect insight into the world of news, politics, and current affairs through the lens of espionage & geopolitics. Guests include former spies, authors, and experts.
]]> Sat, 15 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-02-14:/posts/8654225 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep22: Espresso Martini | The Potomac Air Disaster, Trump’s FBI Purge, and Iran Explores Its Nuclear Options https://audioboom.com/posts/8650903 22 Espresso Martini | The Potomac Air Disaster, Trump’s FBI Purge, and Iran Explores Its Nuclear Options 9 5223 true full A mid-air collision over the Potomac sheds light on secret doomsday evacuation plans for Washington, Trump’s looming FBI purge sparks major internal pushback, and Syria’s new government wants Russia to extradite Assad—but will Putin give him up? Plus, Iran explores a cruder path to a nuclear weapon.

Watch on YouTube
https://youtu.be/kCOSZCdLbyE

Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Mid-Air Collision Shines Light on Doomsday Plans for Nation’s Capital" by Joseph Trevithick | The Warzone: https://www.twz.com/air/mid-air-collision-shines-light-on-doomsday-plans-for-nations-capital

"FBI Agents Are Stunned by the Scale of the Expected Trump Purge" by Shane Harris | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/01/trump-fbi-revenge-firings/681538/

"Kremlin refuses to comment on report Syria asked for Assad to be extradited" by Ketrin Jochecová | Politico: https://www.politico.eu/article/russia-refuses-comment-report-syria-bashar-assad-extradition/

"Russian spy ship fire exposes poor state of Mediterranean fleet, say experts" by Julian Borger | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/01/russian-spy-ship-fire-exposes-poor-state-of-mediterranean-fleet-say-experts

"Iran Is Developing Plans for Faster, Cruder Weapon, US Concludes" by David Sanger & Julian E. Barnes | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/03/us/politics/iran-nuclear-weapon.html

Secrets & Spies is no 3 in Feedspot's top ten spy podcasts!
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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies is an enthralling spy podcast that guides listeners on an immersive journey into the hidden realm of espionage, terrorism, geopolitics, and international intrigue. Expect insight into the world of news, politics, and current affairs through the lens of espionage & geopolitics. Guests include former spies, authors, and experts. 
]]> Sat, 08 Feb 2025 07:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-02-07:/posts/8650903 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Service Announcement - Listener Questions & Adverts https://audioboom.com/posts/8646342 133 false full Hello, everyone. We hope you are well.

Matt and I are keen to get listener questions on future Espresso Martini Episodes. So, if you have a question or topic you would like us to discuss, email us here: secretsandspiespodcast@gmail.com

In your email, please include: 
  • Question or Topic with a relevant news or online publication link 
  • How you would like us to read out your name & location online

Adverts

Adverts are essential to keeping Secrets & Spies running. We have received feedback that there have been some repetitive adverts, and we have reached out to our online hosting service to see what can be done about that. We apologise for any irritation caused. 

We are now offering our new episodes advert-free on Patreon, so if you do want to get rid of adverts and are happy to directly support the show, please go to www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies And depending on which level you pick, you will get a coffee cup or set of coasters.

Thank you so much for your support. Keep an eye out for our next Espresso Martini, which will drop on Saturday, 1st Feb. Have a great weekend!

All the best,
Chris & Matt

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Fri, 31 Jan 2025 10:33:23 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-01-31:/posts/8646342 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep21: Espresso Martini | Southport Killer, South Korea’s Political Crisis, Trump’s Team Navigates Middle East Ceasefires, and TV’s Spy Thriller Renaissance https://audioboom.com/posts/8646455 21 Espresso Martini | Southport Killer, South Korea’s Political Crisis, Trump’s Team Navigates Middle East Ceasefires, and TV’s Spy Thriller Renaissance 9 5604 false full In this episode, we look at the horrific Southport murders that have sparked debates on mental health and the nature of terrorism, South Korea's plunge deeper into its worst political crisis in decades, and Trump’s new national security team scrambles to save ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon—while his rhetoric stirs fresh controversy. Plus, a Russian spy ship plays cat-and-mouse near UK waters, a daring Dutch gold heist stuns investigators, and why spy thrillers are making a big comeback in an age of distrust.

Listen ad-free on Patreon and directly support the show: http://www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/89dfJqAZq4c

Articles discussed in today’s episode

"How red flags over Southport killer were repeatedly missed" by Sean Seddon & Ian Aikman | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c78w7nlwz9po

"South Korea’s Impeached Leader is Indicted on Insurrection Charges" by Choe Sang-Hun | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/26/world/asia/south-korea-yoon-indicted-martial-law.html

"South Korea’s Leadership Crisis, Explained" by Choe Sang-Hun | The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/14/world/asia/south-korea-impeachment-yoon-explained.html

"Trump team avoids Middle East escalation in first weekend in office" by Barak Ravid | Axios: https://www.axios.com/2025/01/27/trump-middle-east-gaza-lebanon-israel-ceasefires

"UK warns Putin after Russian spy ship seen near British waters" by Becky Morton, Jonathan Beale & Damian Grammaticas | BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cqjv7qgpw28o

"Thieves use explosives to steal gold 'masterpieces' from Dutch museum" by Ian Aikman | BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czxkpnnlpdvo

"'The baddies reflect the worries of today’: How TV spy thrillers are booming in an age of distrust" by Laura Martin | BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20250124-why-tv-spy-thrillers-are-booming-right-now

Chris's milk frother: https://salter.com/products/aspen-milk-frother-500w.html

Chris's interview with Melissa Leo: https://pod.fo/e/27f01a

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Fri, 31 Jan 2025 00:01:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-01-31:/posts/8646455 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep20: Espresso Martini | January 6 Pardons, Syria’s Crossroads, and the CIA’s Secret Partner https://audioboom.com/posts/8642711 20 Espresso Martini | January 6 Pardons, Syria’s Crossroads, and the CIA’s Secret Partner 9 4543 true full Chris and Matt break down Trump’s sweeping pardons for January 6th rioters, including violent offenders, and what it means for the rule of law and rising political violence in the US Then, the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime has Syria at a crossroads—will it descend into chaos or find a path to stability? Plus, they explore Marc Polymeropoulos’ insights on opportunities for the US in Syria, along with the roles of Iran, Russia, and Turkey. Finally, how the CIA and Ukrainian intelligence quietly forged one of America’s most valuable partnerships.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/n3SCep-l9Y0

You can listen to our final episode of Extra Shot here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-video-120721511

Articles discussed in today’s episode

"Trump pardons upend massive Jan. 6 prosecution by freeing rioters and dismissing cases" by Richer, Kunzelman & Khalil | AP News: https://apnews.com/article/capitol-riot-trump-pardons-jan-6-f6e23bcd84eaed672318c88f05286767

"Trump's imminent pardons will green-light another wave of far-right violence" by David Neiwert | The Spyhop: https://davidneiwert.substack.com/p/trumps-imminent-pardons-will-green

"Syria’s New Era & Its Opportunities for the US" by Marc Polymeropoulos | New Lines Magazine: https://newlinesmag.com/argument/syrias-new-era-and-its-opportunities-for-the-us/

"The Syria Fiasco As Seen From Moscow" by Sergei Melkonian | Carnegie Endowment Diwan: https://carnegieendowment.org/middle-east/diwan/2024/12/the-syria-fiasco-as-seen-from-moscow

"How the CIA and Ukrainian intelligence secretly forged a deep partnership" by Patrick Reevell | ABC News: https://abcnews.go.com/International/cia-helped-rebuild-ukraine-intelligence-russia-invasion/story?id=116909361

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 25 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-01-24:/posts/8642711 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep19: Will ISIS Make a Comeback in 2025? with Aaron Zelin https://audioboom.com/posts/8639687 19 Will ISIS Make a Comeback in 2025? with Aaron Zelin 9 3438 true full On today’s episode, Matt is joined by another leading counterterrorism researcher, Aaron Zelin. Aaron has spent years studying the global jihadi movement, focusing on the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda. They explore the resurgence of the Islamic State following its territorial defeat in Iraq and Syria in 2017, and the evolving threat the group poses to the United States and other countries—from recent attacks in Iran, Russia, and New Orleans, and the organizational restructuring that’s made them rather resilient. Unpack these critical issues with one of the foremost experts in the field.

Read Aaron’s work for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/aaron-y-zelin

Read Aaron’s Substack, Jihadology+: https://www.jihadologyplus.com

Read Aaron’s past work for Jihadology: https://jihadology.net

"A Globally Integrated Islamic State" by Aaron Zelin | War on the Rocks

"Remaining, Waiting for Expansion (Again): The Islamic State’s Operations in Iraq and Syria" by Aaron Zelin | The Hudson Institute

Follow Aaron on Twitter/X: https://x.com/azelin
Follow Aaron on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/azelin.bsky.social

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 18 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2025-01-18:/posts/8639687 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep18: How to Think Like A Spy with Julian Fisher https://audioboom.com/posts/8628319 18 How to Think Like A Spy with Julian Fisher 9 2658 false full On this episode, we delve into the world of intelligence with Julian Fisher, a renowned intelligence specialist and author. We explore the covert yet powerful skills of influence and persuasion honed by intelligence officers to elicit cooperation from even the most hardened individuals. Discover how these techniques can be ethically adapted to achieve your personal and professional goals. Julian, the founder of Africa Integrity, a leading private intelligence company, and the face of the Channel 4 TV series 'Spies' in 2017, brings a unique perspective to this fascinating conversation.

Find out more about “Think Like A Spy” here: https://julesfisher.com/book/

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JFcgWnwEiqc?si=HnPbNXW0Fs-dgO5c

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 11 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-12-23:/posts/8628319 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep17: 2025 Global Forcast with Sam Liechtenstein from RANE https://audioboom.com/posts/8628314 17 2025 Global Forcast with Sam Liechtenstein from RANE 9 3788 false full In this episode, Sam Liechtenstein from RANE (Risk Assistance Network + Exchange) joins us to dissect their annual geopolitical forecast. We discussed a range of pressing issues, including:

  • The deteriorating global climate cooperation
  • The evolving conflict in Ukraine
  • The shifting political landscape in Europe
  • The Israeli-Palestinian conflict
  • US-China tensions
  • Political uncertainties in Asia
  • North Korea's military threats
  • Taiwan's strategic position
  • India's rising influence
  • Pakistan's instability
  • Jihadism in Sub-Saharan Africa
  • South Africa's political dynamics
  • The implications of a potential Trump presidency
To find out more about RANE and its annual global forecast, please visit their website here: https://www.ranenetwork.com/

Support Secrets and Spies

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Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode unpacks global events through the lens of intelligence and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and analysts.
]]> Sat, 04 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-12-23:/posts/8628314 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep16: Murder of a British Spy in the IRA with Henry Hemming https://audioboom.com/posts/8628310 16 Murder of a British Spy in the IRA with Henry Hemming 9 3118 false full In this conversation, Chris and author Henry Hemming delve into the intricate world of espionage during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, focusing on the roles of spies, informants, and key figures like Frank Hegarty and Freddy Scappatici. They discuss the political landscape that led to Operation Banner, the evolution of the IRA, and the cultural stigma surrounding informers. The conversation also highlights the challenges faced by intelligence operations and the moral complexities involved in espionage.

Get a copy of “Four Shots In The Night” here: https://www.quercusbooks.co.uk/titles/henry-hemming/four-shots-in-the-night/9781529426786/

Find out more about Henry Hemming and his work here: https://henryhemming.com/

Check out our past interview with Henry about his book “Our Man In New York”: https://pod.fo/e/ca367

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/OWmWkMq3hqM

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

]]> Sat, 28 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-12-23:/posts/8628310 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Happy Holidays and Thank You for your support over 2024 https://audioboom.com/posts/8628247 43 false full Hi everyone, we wish you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. 

We also wanted to say a huge thank you to each of you for your support over 2024. We have more episodes to share over the Holidays, so please stay tuned.

In the meantime, we hope you have a wonderful holiday period, and we will catch you in 2025 for more.


Support Secrets and Spies

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird]]> Mon, 23 Dec 2024 12:23:01 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-12-23:/posts/8628247 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep15: Russian Spy Ships and undersea cables with Florian Flade https://audioboom.com/posts/8627484 15 Russian Spy Ships and undersea cables with Florian Flade 9 3713 false full In this episode, we’re joined by Florian Flade, an investigative journalist for Germany’s public broadcaster WDR based in Berlin. In this conversation, Florian discusses the activities of Russian research ships that are suspected of espionage. He explains how these ships, while officially labeled as academic vessels, are equipped with advanced technology for intelligence gathering, mainly focusing on critical underwater infrastructure. The conversation delves into the geopolitical implications of these activities, the Russian government's official stance, and the role of Chinese ships in potential sabotage operations.

Additionally, the discussion highlights the legal challenges in addressing maritime espionage and the difficulties in investigating incidents at sea. Florian also discusses NATO's evolving strategies in response to Russian spy ships, particularly in the context of the Baltic Sea. He highlights the increasing urgency and coordination among NATO members, the challenges of hybrid warfare, and the implications for defence spending in Germany.

The discussion also touches on public perceptions of security threats and the historical context of espionage activities, culminating in a personal account of encountering spy ships.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ojllHsImbNk

For more information on these suspected Russian Spy Ships, please check out the links below:

DW Documentary: “Putin’s Fleet”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Br3K93-z6PI

DW News: “What are dozens of Russian ships doing in European waters?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7f7Nujs1_yY

HI Sutton
http://www.hisutton.com/

Online Trackers

For more information and to connect with Florian please follow the links below:

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/florianflade.bsky.social
Twitter: https://x.com/FlorianFlade
Blog: https://ojihad.wordpress.com/

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Connect with us on social media

]]> Sat, 21 Dec 2024 13:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-12-20:/posts/8627484 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep14: The Fall of Assad and What’s Next for Syria with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8623816 14 The Fall of Assad and What’s Next for Syria with Phillip Smyth 9 6229 true full After a despotic reign of over five decades, marked by 13 years of bloody civil war that killed over half a million people and displaced millions more, the al-Assad dynasty’s rule over Syria has come to a sudden, shocking end. In just under two weeks, rebel groups mounted an offensive that captured a string of major cities, culminating in the fall of Damascus with barely a shot being fired and Bashar al-Assad fleeing into exile in Moscow. It’s difficult to understate what a complete sea change these events are for Syria and the Middle East. Today, Phillip Smyth returns to help us make sense of how this all unfolded so quickly, so unexpectedly, and what it means for Iran and its proxies like Lebanese Hezbollah, who propped up the Assad regime and counted on Syria as a hub to exert their influence throughout the region.

Read Phillip’s work for West Point’s Combatting Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/authors/phillip-smyth/

Read Phillip’s past work for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth

Follow Phillip on Twitter/X: https://x.com/PhillipSmyth

Relevant articles and reporting

"The Backstory Behind the Fall of Aleppo" by Hassan Hassan and Michael Weiss | New Lines Magazine

"Jihadi ‘Counterterrorism:’ Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Versus the Islamic State" by Aaron Y. Zelin | CTC Sentinel

Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Backgrounder | Center for Strategic & International Studies

"Syrian rebels reveal year-long plot that brought down Assad regime" by William Christou | The Guardian

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird
]]> Sat, 14 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-12-14:/posts/8623816 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep13: We Defy: The Lost Chapters of Special Forces History with Jack Murphy https://audioboom.com/posts/8622029 13 We Defy: The Lost Chapters of Special Forces History with Jack Murphy 9 2996 true full In this episode, Matt’s joined by Jack Murphy—former Green Beret, investigative journalist, and host of The Team House podcast. Jack shares insights from his latest book, We Defy: The Lost Chapters of Special Forces History, which uncovers lesser-known missions that shaped the US special operations community, from Cold War Berlin to nuclear contingencies reminiscent of Dr. Strangelove. Jack delves into the untold stories of units like Special Forces Detachment A and Blue Light, exploring the ingenuity, adaptability, and sacrifices of the men behind these covert operations, reflecting on the evolving role of special operations in today’s world.

Get We Defy: The Lost Chapters of Special Forces History on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/We-Defy-Chapters-Special-History-ebook/dp/B0DCGC1N1N/ref=sr_1_1

Listen to Jack on The Team House: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-team-house/id1492797340

Read’s reporting for The High Side on Substack: https://thehighside.substack.com

Follow Jack on Bluesky & X
https://bsky.app/profile/jackmurphyrgr.bsky.social
https://x.com/JackMurphyRGR

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]]> Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-12-10:/posts/8622029 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep12: Can a Federation Heal the Divide between Israel and Palestine with Nigel Roberts https://audioboom.com/posts/8620376 12 Can a Federation Heal the Divide between Israel and Palestine with Nigel Roberts 9 4082 false full Retired World Bank Director Nigel Roberts tackles the intractable Israel-Palestine conflict. He dissects the shortcomings of the two-state solution and champions a novel approach: a federation acknowledging both identities. Roberts delves into the historical roots and the radicalisation fuelling the conflict. He argues for a new framework built on a constitutional process, acknowledging the trauma on both sides.

The discussion explores the challenges of public acceptance amidst deep mistrust. Roberts examines the influence of social media and urges international engagement to foster dialogue. Ultimately, he offers a glimmer of hope with the federation model, calling for citizen action and support for initiatives like "A Land for All."

Watch on YouTube
https://youtu.be/Ija7A6Csh3o


Links

Read the full paper - “An Israeli/Palestinian Federation: An Alternative Approach to Peace“ by Riccardo Bocco and Nigel Roberts
https://we.tl/t-sMTakmxHGD

A Land For All
https://www.alandforall.org/english/?d=ltr

Geneva Graduate Institute
https://www.graduateinstitute.ch/war-middle-east


Support Secrets and Spies

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.

Music by Andrew R. Bird

]]> Sat, 07 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-12-06:/posts/8620376 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep11: Far-Right Extremism Under Trump 2.0 with Jacob Ware https://audioboom.com/posts/8615171 11 Far-Right Extremism Under Trump 2.0 with Jacob Ware 9 3430 true full In this episode, Matt is joined again by Jacob Ware, a counterterrorism expert with the Council on Foreign Relations and co-author of God, Guns, and Sedition: Far-Right Terrorism in America. They discuss the unsettling question of what far-right extremism, with its proponents feeling emboldened and legitimized by Donald Trump’s election, might look like during his second term in office.

Jacob helps unpack how these movements are evolving, the risks they pose to democratic institutions, and what the next four years might hold for these groups in terms of recruitment, violence, and public visibility of their hateful worldview. It’s a critical conversation we hope you’ll find steers away from hyperbole, focusing instead on historical lessons and current dynamics shaping this moment.

So, grab your coffee—or maybe something stronger—and join us for an in-depth look at the challenges ahead.

Get Jacob’s book God, Guns, and Sedition: Far-Right Terrorism in America:
https://www.cfr.org/book/god-guns-and-sedition
https://www.amazon.com/God-Guns-Sedition-Far-Right-Terrorism/dp/0231211228

Jacob’s work for the Council on Foreign Relations: https://www.cfr.org/expert/jacob-ware

Jacob’s work for Lawfare: https://www.lawfaremedia.org/contributors/jware

Follow Jacob on Bluesky & X
https://bsky.app/profile/jacobware.bsky.social
https://x.com/Jacob_A_Ware

Relevant articles and reporting

"Understanding the Threats to US Election Security in 2024" by Kat Duffy & Jacob Ware | Council on Foreign Relations

"The Terrorist Threat from the Fractured Far Right" by Bruce Hoffman & Jacob Ware | Lawfare

"The Proud Boys Love a Winner" by Juliette Kayyem | The Atlantic

"Far-right extremists celebrate, see opportunity in second Trump win" by Hannah Allam | The Washington Post

"Pete Hegseth, Trump’s Pentagon pick, sparks alarm over far-right extremism" by Alice Herman | The Guardian

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Thu, 28 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-11-27:/posts/8615171 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep10: Espresso Martini | Trump’s Coming War on the Intelligence Community, Russia’s Sabotage Campaign, and America’s Future at a Crossroads https://audioboom.com/posts/8613449 10 Espresso Martini | Trump’s Coming War on the Intelligence Community, Russia’s Sabotage Campaign, and America’s Future at a Crossroads 9 4399 false full In this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt examine the potentially seismic shifts for the US and the Western alliance if Trump executes his plans to overhaul the federal workforce. They discuss the risk of a mass exodus of career officials, the politicization of intelligence agencies, and the broader implications for national security. They also explore Garrett Graff’s thought-provoking scenarios for America’s future, comparing the possibility of federal collapse to a fragmented state-driven system akin to Europe. In addition, the hosts explore Russia’s alleged GRU-led sabotage of European air cargo hubs, assessing how these operations fit into a broader strategy of hybrid warfare. The episode wraps up with a discussion on satire’s role in media, sparked by The Onion’s satirical purchase of Infowars, an incisive critique of the growing overlap between parody and disinformation in the modern media landscape.

Watch us on YouTube
https://youtu.be/oZ5pv31_60w


Articles discussed in today’s episode

“Trump’s Deep State Revenge” by Shane Harris | The Atlantic
https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2024/11/intelligence-agencies-trump-loyalists/680625/

“Two scenarios for the years ahead” by Garrett Graff | Doomsday Scenario
https://www.doomsdayscenario.co/p/two-scenarios-for-the-years-ahead

“Mystery fires were Russian 'test runs' to target cargo flights to US” by Paul Kirby | BBC News
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c07912lxx33o

“The Onion’s Most Trenchant Headline” by Megan Garber | The Atlantic
https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2024/11/onion-infowars-acquisition-satire/680667/

Click here to tune into our Patreon Show Extra Shot:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-cias-116617245?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Support Secrets and Spies

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird]]> Sun, 24 Nov 2024 12:01:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-11-24:/posts/8613449 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9: Podcast Update 11/23 https://audioboom.com/posts/8612718 9 41 false full We wanted to drop a quick update about the podcast this weekend. New episodes of Espresso Martini and our Patreon-exclusive show, Extra Shot, are running just a little behind schedule. Listeners in the US and the UK can expect them in their feeds on Sunday. For our friends Down Under, that’ll probably be Monday.

Both are still on the way, just not on Saturday, as expected. We thank you for your patience. Enjoy your weekend, everyone.]]> Fri, 22 Nov 2024 22:35:39 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-11-22:/posts/8612718 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep9: Russian mercenaries in Africa with Philip Obaji https://audioboom.com/posts/8601711 9 Russian mercenaries in Africa with Philip Obaji 9 4152 true full In this conversation, award-winning investigative journalist Philip Obaji discusses the increasing influence of the Russian Wagner Group in Africa, particularly in relation to military coups and economic interests. He shares insights into the motivations behind Russia's actions in the region, the impact of Yevgeny Prigozhin's death on Wagner's operations, and his personal experiences reporting in dangerous environments. Obaji highlights the human rights violations committed by Russian paramilitaries, including sexual assaults and massacres, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and reporting on these issues. This conversation delves into the complex and often dark relationship between Russia and various African nations, focusing on the involvement of Russian mercenaries, the exploitation of local populations, and the growing influence of China. Philip Obaji shares insights from his reporting on atrocities committed by Russian forces, including sexual violence and child labor in mining operations. The discussion also touches on local perceptions of Russian influence, the impact of disinformation campaigns, and the need for accountability from the international community.

Find out more about Philips's work here: https://www.thedailybeast.com/author/philip-obaji-jr/

Connect with him on X here: https://twitter.com/PhilipObaji


Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Follow Chris and Matt on Twitter/X:
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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

]]> Fri, 08 Nov 2024 13:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-11-04:/posts/8601711 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep8: David Bickford, former Legal Director of MI5 & MI6 turned author https://audioboom.com/posts/8600547 8 David Bickford, former Legal Director of MI5 & MI6 turned author 9 3724 false full In this conversation, David Bickford shares his fascinating journey from a unique childhood to a distinguished career in the intelligence services, specifically as a legal director for MI5 and MI6. He discusses the complexities of balancing national security with legality, the current threats posed by Russia and China, and the evolving landscape of intelligence work. Transitioning into a novelist, Bickford reflects on the inspiration behind his books, the writing process he shares with his wife, and offers valuable advice for aspiring writers and those considering a career in intelligence.

To find out more about David and his latest novel, “Katya The Informer”, please visit his website: https://davidbickford.co.uk/

Watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0zPfzbDOrIc


Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com

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Follow Chris and Matt on Twitter/X:
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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird

]]> Sat, 02 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-11-01:/posts/8600547 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep7: Espresso Martini | North Korean Troops to Ukraine, Sinwar’s End, Israel Rolls Up an Iranian Spy Ring, and Conspiracies Drive Threats to FEMA https://audioboom.com/posts/8596703 7 Espresso Martini | North Korean Troops to Ukraine, Sinwar’s End, Israel Rolls Up an Iranian Spy Ring, and Conspiracies Drive Threats to FEMA 9 4524 true full In this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt discuss the alarming news that North Korea is sending up to 12,000 troops to bolster Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. They explore the implications of North Korea gaining combat experience and modern warfare training and whether these troops are likely to be anything more than cannon fodder for Putin’s war. Next, they unpack the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, mastermind of the October 7th attacks, killed by Israeli forces after a years-long manhunt. In a twist of fate, it was trainee soldiers who found him. While his final defiance is already being mythologized by supporters, Chris and Matt assess whether his death will weaken Hamas or bolster its extremist factions. They also explore the arrest of seven Israelis accused of spying for Iran and how these betrayals compromised national security. Finally, they examine growing threats against FEMA workers in North Carolina, driven by conspiracy theories that disrupted disaster relief efforts and underscore the real dangers of misinformation.

Watch us on YouTube
https://youtu.be/bP_YTHABle4

Articles discussed in today’s episode

"North Korea 'sends 1,500 special forces with fake Russian IDs' to support Putin's war against Ukraine" by Deborah Haynes | Sky News
https://news.sky.com/story/north-korea-sends-1-500-special-forces-with-fake-russian-ids-to-support-putins-war-against-ukraine-13235751

"Yahya Sinwar’s final moments and the Israeli trainees who found him" by Julian Borger | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/oct/18/yahya-sinwar-final-moments-israeli-infantry-tracked-him-down

"Seven Israelis arrested for spying for Iran, providing info on army bases" by Jacob Laznik & Eye Young | Jerusalem Post
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-825487

"Suspect arrested after reports of threats toward FEMA operations in North Carolina" by Andy Rose, Paradise Afshar, Ella Nilsen & Gabe Cohen | CNN
https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/14/us/fema-helene-north-carolina-reported-threats/index.html


Click here to tune into our Patreon Show Extra Shot:
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Support Secrets and Spies

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Follow Chris and Matt on Twitter/X:
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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird]]> Fri, 25 Oct 2024 20:53:54 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-10-25:/posts/8596703 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Chris is unwell, so he is resharing The Double Bind with Meredith Tax https://audioboom.com/posts/8591684 2872 false full Chris is unwell so there won’t be a new episode this week. Instead, Chris is re-sharing the first-ever episode in which he is joined by the author Meredith Tax, and they discuss her book “The Double Bind”, which looks at the problematic relationship between Anglo American left and the Muslim right. Later in the podcast, they also discuss the role of Kurdish women in the fight against ISIS.

You can get a copy of the Double Bind here:

UK
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Double-Bind-Muslim-Anglo-American-Universal/dp/0988830302/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ZKEJ0U88CK4F&keywords=the+double+bind+meredith+tax&qid=1699649198&sprefix=the+double+bind+meredith+tax%2Caps%2C225&sr=8-1

US
https://www.amazon.com/Double-Bind-Muslim-Anglo-American-Universal/dp/0988830302/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2SGNS9LZ9PFXX&keywords=the+double+bind+meredith+tax&qid=1699649248&sprefix=the+double+bind+meredith+tax%2Caps%2C122&sr=8-1

AUS
https://www.amazon.com.au/Double-Bind-Muslim-Anglo-American-Universal/dp/0988830302/ref=sr_1_1?crid=238AGSX9HY3UG&keywords=THE+DOUBLE+BIND+MEREDITH+TAX&qid=1699649285&sprefix=the+double+bind+meredith+tax%2Caps%2C184&sr=8-1


Support Secrets and Spies

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Follow Chris and Matt on Twitter/X:
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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird]]> Fri, 18 Oct 2024 11:17:12 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-10-18:/posts/8591684 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep6: Espresso Martini | Gaza After a Year of War, Iran’s Criminal Alliances, Russia’s Arctic Intrigues, and Tom Clancy’s Legacy https://audioboom.com/posts/8588702 6 Espresso Martini | Gaza After a Year of War, Iran’s Criminal Alliances, Russia’s Arctic Intrigues, and Tom Clancy’s Legacy 9 4889 true full In this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt discuss a new public opinion poll revealing a sharp decline in Palestinian support for Hamas after a brutal year of war in Gaza. They also explore Iran’s troubling alliances with criminal organizations to carry out assassinations in the West, and Russia’s use of a remote Norwegian town in the Arctic as a laboratory for hybrid warfare. Lastly, 40 years after The Hunt for Red October, they reflect on the enduring legacy of Tom Clancy, whose work continues to shape military fiction and public perceptions of global conflict. Tune in for a compelling mix of current events, espionage, and cultural reflections on the impact of techno-thrillers.

You can now watch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Vb4U23bn80s

Articles discussed in today’s episode

“Hamas Is Monstrous. Most Gazans Agree.” by Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib | The Dispatch

“Iran turns to Hells Angels and other criminal gangs to target critics” by Greg Miller, Souad Mekhennet & Cate Brown | The Washington Post

“Russia’s Espionage War in the Arctic” by Ben Taub | The New Yorker

“Tom Clancy’s legend began 40 years ago – with a nudge from The Post” by Dan Diamond | The Washington Post

Click here to tune into our Patreon Show Extra Shot:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-audio-113855719?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Follow Chris and Matt on Twitter/X:
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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird]]> Sat, 12 Oct 2024 09:42:31 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-10-12:/posts/8588702 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep5: Who Attacked Nord Stream? Inside the Investigation with Florian Flade https://audioboom.com/posts/8584316 5 Who Attacked Nord Stream? Inside the Investigation with Florian Flade 9 3215 false full Today’s episode brings you an in-depth look into one of the most mysterious and controversial sabotage incidents in recent history – the Nord Stream Pipeline attack. Joining both Chris and Matt is investigative journalist Florian Flade, who has been at the forefront of uncovering the truth behind the explosions that shook Europe.

Florian, working with the German public broadcaster Tagesschau, has spent years investigating issues surrounding national security, terrorism, and intelligence. In this episode, we explore the tangled web of geopolitical intrigue surrounding the Nord Stream pipeline bombings, examining who may be responsible and what this attack means for Ukraine’s potential future in the EU and NATO. From questions of Ukrainian involvement to the presence of Russian spy ships in the Baltic, we’ll be unpacking a story filled with uncertainty, strategic sabotage, and high-stakes diplomacy.

So, tune in as we dive into the facts, theories, and investigative breakthroughs that shed light on this murky case.

Follow Florian on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/FlorianFlade

Articles and reporting discussed in the episode

"New clue apparently leads to Ukraine" by Florian Flade & Manuel Bewarder | Tagesschau (May 2023)

"Search in Germany" by Florian Flade & Manuel Bewarder | Tagesschau (June 2023)

"Sailing yacht with stopover in Poland" by Florian Flade, Manuel Bewarder, Michael Götschenberg, Georg Heil & Holger Schmidt | Tagesschau (June 2023)

"Denying All Involvement" by Florian Flade, Manuel Bewarder, et al. | Tagesschau (September 2023)

"New list from Poland raises questions" by Florian Flade, Manuel Bewarder, Michael Götschenberg, Georg Heil & Holger Schmidt | Tagesschau (September 2023)

"Sweden wants to stop Nord Stream proceedings" by Florian Flade & Manuel Bewarder | Tagesschau (February 2024)

"First arrest warrant for Nord Stream attacks" by Florian Flade, Manuel Bewarder, Michael Götschenberg, Georg Heil & Holger Schmidt | Tagesschau (August 2024)

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Sun, 06 Oct 2024 13:07:34 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-10-06:/posts/8584316 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep4: Hezbollah Decapitated, Israel Invades, and Iran Attacks with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8582186 4 Hezbollah Decapitated, Israel Invades, and Iran Attacks with Phillip Smyth 9 6323 true full In this special episode, Matt welcomes back Phillip Smyth just days after his last appearance to analyze another major development in the Middle East: the assassination of Hezbollah’s secretary general, Hassan Nasrallah, in a targeted Israeli airstrike. Nasrallah’s death has sent shockwaves across Lebanon, Iran, and the wider network of Iran-backed militias, raising pressing questions about Hezbollah’s future and its role in regional power dynamics.

Phillip returns to help unpack the key players, their motives, and the potential fallout from this strike. Together, they examine Israel’s strategic objectives, Iran’s retaliatory actions, and the broader implications for the already fragile situation in the Middle East. They also explore the ongoing Israeli ground offensive and Iran’s ballistic missile strikes in response.

It’s a rapidly evolving situation, so join Phillip and Matt as they break down the latest developments and consider what might come next.

Phillip’s work for West Point’s Combatting Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/authors/phillip-smyth/.

Phillip’s work at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth

Follow Phillip on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/PhillipSmyth

Relevant articles and reporting

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]]> Thu, 03 Oct 2024 19:29:21 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-10-03:/posts/8582186 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep3: Exploding Pagers and More Airstrikes: Unpacking Hezbollah’s Catastrophic Week with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8578793 3 Exploding Pagers and More Airstrikes: Unpacking Hezbollah’s Catastrophic Week with Phillip Smyth 9 5067 false full On today’s episode, Phillip Smyth, the guru for all things related to Iranian proxy groups, returns to chat with Matt about the exploding pagers and radios that maimed thousands of Hezbollah members last week and the following wave of Israeli airstrikes targeting the group’s long-range missile and drone forces. They discuss the implications for Hezbollah’s communication networks and command structure and the broader impact these events will have on the regional war that’s now consumed the Middle East for a year.

Phillip’s work for West Point’s Combatting Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/authors/phillip-smyth/.

Phillip’s work at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth

Follow Phillip on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/PhillipSmyth
Follow Matt on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/FultonMatt

Support Secrets and Spies

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]]> Sat, 28 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-09-28:/posts/8578793 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep2: Extra Shot Preview: The weaponisation of disgust, a peek inside a US Far-Right militia and a globally integrated ISIS https://audioboom.com/posts/8574325 2 Extra Shot Preview: The weaponisation of disgust, a peek inside a US Far-Right militia and a globally integrated ISIS 9 3715 false full Hello, everyone. As Chris and Matt are working on new interviews this week, we are sharing a preview of our Extra Shot episode from September 13th.  On this episode we look at the weaponisation of disgust, a peek inside a US Far-Right militia and a globally integrated ISIS.

Articles discussed in the show:

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-stochastic-terrorism-uses-disgust-to-incite-violence/

https://www.propublica.org/article/inside-secret-ap3-militia-american-patriots-three-percent

https://warontherocks.com/2024/07/a-globally-integrated-islamic-state/

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon and get access to "Extra Shot" for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird]]> Fri, 20 Sep 2024 17:11:09 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-09-20:/posts/8574325 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S9 Ep1: Espresso Martini | Teen Terrorism, Telegram Trouble, and Exposing the Kremlin’s American Useful Idiots https://audioboom.com/posts/8570773 1 Espresso Martini | Teen Terrorism, Telegram Trouble, and Exposing the Kremlin’s American Useful Idiots 9 4673 true full In the Season 9 premiere of the Secrets & Spies podcast, hosts Chris Carr and Matt Fulton reveal exciting new plans for the show, including a transition to video. They dive into breaking stories, starting with the shocking failed ISIS attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna—exposing the growing threat of teenage online radicalization. The episode also covers the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov in France for failing to regulate harmful content, and the DOJ’s exposure of ties between American influencers and Russian state media. Finally, they discuss a rare joint interview with CIA Director William Burns and SIS Chief Sir Richard Moore, offering insights into the historic US-UK intelligence collaboration amid rising global tensions.

Tune in for expert analysis on terrorism, online extremism, and intelligence from the leaders shaping the global security landscape.

Video version available on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/espresso-martini-112014979

Articles discussed in today’s episode

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]]> Fri, 13 Sep 2024 22:38:11 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-09-13:/posts/8570773 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies The Secret History of Area 51 with Peter Merlin (Repost) https://audioboom.com/posts/8566674 3321 false full On today’s episode (originally aired January 20th, 2024), Matt speaks with aerospace historian Peter Merlin, whose new book, DREAMLAND: THE SECRET HISTORY OF AREA 51, is the first authoritative, scholarly history ever published on the infamous top-secret base deep in the Nevada desert. This isn’t a book about UFOs or conspiracy theories but instead offers a sweeping, comprehensive study of the real Area 51, where for 70 years the US Air Force has developed and tested classified military aircraft like the U-2 and SR-71 spy planes, the F-117 stealth fighter, and some projects that will remain secret for decades to come.

Purchase DREAMLAND through Schiffer Publishing: https://schifferbooks.com/products/dreamland

Find DREAMLAND and Peter’s other books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Peter-W.-Merlin/author/B001JS0GU6

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]]> Sat, 07 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-09-05:/posts/8566674 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Extra Shot Teaser: Privacy vs. national security, threats to democracy, Ukraine aid, and the state of the Royal Navy https://audioboom.com/posts/8563945 3932 true full Chris and Matt are enjoying a late-summer break. Please enjoy this episode of Extra Shot, our bonus show for Patreon subscribers, originally aired May 11th, 2024. Secrets and Spies will return for season 9 with a new Espresso Martini on September 14th.

Take our anonymous listener survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MSRSSSP

Reporting discussed in the episode

"Asio boss says privacy ‘not absolute’ as he urges social media companies to do more on extremism" by Josh Butler | The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/apr/24/asio-boss-says-privacy-not-absolute-as-he-urges-social-media-companies-to-do-more-on-extremism

"Autocracies Are Winning the Information War" by Tom Nichols | The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/archive/2024/05/the-plot-to-discredit-democracy/678315/

"Putin’s Propagandists Rage Against the Republican ‘Betrayal’" by Julia Davis | CEPA: https://cepa.org/article/putins-propagandists-rage-against-the-republican-betrayal/

"The Royal Navy is going through difficult times" by Stavros Atlamazoglou | Sandboxx News: https://www.sandboxx.us/news/royal-navy-woes/

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Sat, 31 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-08-30:/posts/8563945 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Listener Survey 2024 https://audioboom.com/posts/8562617 192 false full Hello, everyone. We just wanted to say a huge thank you for your support during season 8. We will be starting Season 9 on the 14th of September.

Before we start the new season, we wanted to hear from you about your thoughts on the podcast and if there is anything you would like us to do.

Please take part in our anonymous listener survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MSRSSSP

Thank you for taking the time to participate in our survey and for all your support over the year.

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Secrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
Music by Andrew R. Bird]]> Wed, 28 Aug 2024 17:08:12 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-08-28:/posts/8562617 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep59: Tim Tate - To Catch A Spy - Peter Wright and the SpyCatcher affair https://audioboom.com/posts/8560516 59 Tim Tate - To Catch A Spy - Peter Wright and the SpyCatcher affair 8 4936 false full Join us on today’s podcast as we sit down with author and investigative journalist Tim Tate to chat about his fascinating new book, To Catch A Spy. Tim takes us behind the scenes of the SpyCatcher affair, where the Thatcher government of the 1980s tried to silence MI5 whistleblower Peter Wright. It’s a gripping tale of cover-ups, deception, and its impact on MI5 today. So, grab your favourite drink, get comfortable, and enjoy this intriguing conversation with Tim!

To find out more about Tim and To Catch A Spy, visit: https://timtate.co.uk/

Support Secrets and Spies:

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Secrets & Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.]]> Fri, 23 Aug 2024 18:30:09 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-08-23:/posts/8560516 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep58: Russian Sleeper Spies in Germany with Florian Flade https://audioboom.com/posts/8557645 58 Russian Sleeper Spies in Germany with Florian Flade 8 4606 true full In this episode, we’re joined by Florian Flade, an investigative journalist for Germany’s public broadcaster ARD, based in Berlin. Florian takes us inside the gripping true story of two Russian sleeper spies who lived undercover in Germany for years, posing as an ordinary family. Drawing parallels to the fictional world of The Americans, this real-life espionage tale reveals the extraordinary lengths to which Russia will go to spy on foreign nations. Join us as Florian shares insights from his in-depth research and podcast, shedding light on one of the most remarkable espionage operations uncovered in recent history.

Please note that this episode was recorded before the historic prisoner swap with Russia in early August.

To listen to Florian’s podcast “Die Anschlags – Russlands Spione unter uns”  visit this link: https://www.ardaudiothek.de/sendung/die-anschlags-russlands-spione-unter-uns-wdr-und-ndr/13420611/

For more information and to connect with Florian, please follow the links below.

Blog: https://ojihad.wordpress.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/FlorianFlade

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Secrets & Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.
 
]]> Sat, 17 Aug 2024 10:08:56 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-08-17:/posts/8557645 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep57: Inside the blockbuster US-Russia prisoner swap with Shane Harris https://audioboom.com/posts/8553552 57 Inside the blockbuster US-Russia prisoner swap with Shane Harris 8 2620 true full On today’s episode, Washington Post national security reporter and friend of the show, Shane Harris, joins Matt to discuss last week's historic prisoner exchange between the US and Russia, securing the release of several prominent journalists and pro-democracy activists. Shane dives into his reporting on the swap, detailing months of delicate negotiations, who the Russians got in return, and touches on the complicated question of whether these exchanges incentivize autocrats like Putin to take hostage more Westerners and journalists to extract concessions from their governments.

Read Shane’s work for The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/shane-harris/

Follow Shane on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shaneharris
Follow Shane on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shanewharris

Reporting and groups discussed in the episode

"Inside the deal that led to a blockbuster prisoner swap between US, Russia" by Shane Harris, Yasmeen Abutaleb & Souad Mekhennet: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/08/01/deal-us-russia-prisoner-swap/

Committee to Protect Journalists: https://cpj.org

James Foley Legacy Foundation: https://jamesfoleyfoundation.org

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Sat, 10 Aug 2024 04:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-08-09:/posts/8553552 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep56: Israel, Iran, and Hezbollah on the brink with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8552045 56 Israel, Iran, and Hezbollah on the brink with Phillip Smyth 8 4303 true full In today’s special episode, Phillip Smyth, a leading expert on Iranian-backed militias, returns to dissect the latest wave of conflict in the Middle East. Recent escalations have claimed the lives of a dozen Israeli civilians and two senior leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah. Retaliation from Iran and its allies is expected at any moment, leaving the region once again on the brink of a potentially more widespread and unrestrained war. Phillip sheds light on who these two men were and what their deaths mean for their organizations, parses the delicate messaging and maneuvering behind the scenes, and offers his insights on what Iran and Hezbollah’s imminent response might entail.

Phillip’s work for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth

Phillip’s work for West Point’s Combatting Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/authors/phillip-smyth

Follow Phillip on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhillipSmyth

Reporting discussed in the episode

"Who Is Fuad Shukr, Target of the Israeli Strike on Beirut?" by Aaron Boxerman, Ronen Bergman & Euan Ward: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/30/world/middleeast/fuad-shukr-hezbollah-israel-strike.html

"Bomb Smuggled Intro Tehran Guesthouse Months Ago Killed Hamas Leader" by Ronen Bergman, Mark Mazzetti & Farnaz Fassihi: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/01/world/middleeast/how-hamas-leader-haniyeh-killed-iran-bomb.html

"Iran Arrests Dozens in Search for Suspects in Killing of Hamas Leader" by Farnaz Fassihi: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/03/world/middleeast/iran-security-response-hamas-assassination.html

"Houthis Launch Deadly Drone Strike on Tel Aviv, Evading Israel’s Defenses" by Gabby Sobelman, Aaron Boxerman, Ronen Bergman, Lara Jakes & Erin Mendel: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/19/world/middleeast/houthis-drone-strike-tel-aviv.html

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Spoutible: https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Middle East analyst Phillip Smyth joins Matt to discuss the latest round of conflict in the region and Iran's expected retaliation against Israel. Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-08-06:/posts/8552045 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep55: How autocracies try to undermine democracy with Anne Applebaum https://audioboom.com/posts/8550732 55 How autocracies try to undermine democracy with Anne Applebaum 8 2520 true full On today’s podcast, we are joined by Pulitzer Prize-winning author, historian, and journalist Anne Applebaum. In this episode, we discuss Anne’s latest book, Autocracy Inc., which examines how and why autocracies try to undermine democracy.

We also consider what can be done to better protect ourselves from anti-democratic propaganda.

Find out more about “Autocracy Inc” here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/725302/autocracy-inc-by-anne-applebaum

Connect with Anne and find out more about her work here: https://www.anneapplebaum.com

Support Secrets and Spies

Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996
]]> Sat, 03 Aug 2024 05:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-08-02:/posts/8550732 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep54: Espresso Martini | Russian agents target the Olympics, Trump assassination attempt and President Biden steps out of the Presidential race https://audioboom.com/posts/8547954 54 Espresso Martini | Russian agents target the Olympics, Trump assassination attempt and President Biden steps out of the Presidential race 8 4741 true full Today, we will look at a Russian operative who was arrested in France, details on the failed assassination of Donald Trump, and a little at President Biden stepping out of the 2024 Presidential race.

On Extra Shot we will be looking at a developing spy case in Australia, Tech Broligarch’s courting Trump, influences driving extreme misogyny and a former US analyst accused of spying for South Korea

To get access to Extra Shot you’ll need to become a Patreon subscriber. You can do that by clicking this link here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-27-07-108936531?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Article Discussed on Espresso Martini
https://theins.ru/en/politics/273350

https://www.twz.com/news-features/experienced-snipers-break-down-the-trump-assassination-attempt

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/23/us/politics/cheatle-secret-service-director-resigns.html

https://www.nbcnews.com/investigations/agency-crisis-secret-service-decade-old-staffing-shortfall-rcna162698

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c51ydg792ggo

https://theins.ru/en/opinion/weiss/273301

Youtube Videos Chris mentioned

https://youtu.be/zfATfPIpDc4?si=V1Ut0C0tTpnGKJLd

https://youtu.be/FsvJzfXZI18?si=IW6QqDzgclbpKtfC

Articles Discussed on Extra Shot

https://www.9news.com.au/national/one-of-two-russians-accused-of-attempting-to-leak-australian-military-secrets-to-moscow-told-colleagues-of-special-forces/2207002f-49a1-4d2f-8d2c-e8ec74b3b20e

https://www.9news.com.au/national/australian-soldier-and-husband-charged-with-spying-for-russia/72e72264-a236-40e9-89c6-ee1bc27dfb90

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/20/tech-broligarchs-court-trump-vance-elon-musk-peter-thiel
  
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cne4vw1x83po

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/16/nyregion/sue-mi-terry-cia-south-korea.html


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Secrets & Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.]]> Sat, 27 Jul 2024 19:37:20 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-07-27:/posts/8547954 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep53: Unpacking the Assassination Attempt on Donald Trump with Jacob Ware https://audioboom.com/posts/8542887 53 Unpacking the Assassination Attempt on Donald Trump with Jacob Ware 8 2166 true full On today’s special episode, Matt is joined again by Jacob Ware, a research fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations focusing on domestic and international terrorism. Jacob helps make sense of last weekend’s assassination attempt on Donald Trump, placing it in the larger context of political violence in the United States and the ongoing threat to the presidential election.

Read Jacob’s coverage of the Trump assassination attempt and preventing violence in the 2024 election:

https://www.cfr.org/expert-brief/trump-assassination-attempt-poses-new-test-us-democracy

https://time.com/6998930/the-trump-assassination-attempt-represents-a-dark-new-chapter-in-american-politics/

https://www.usnews.com/opinion/articles/2024-07-15/trump-assassination-attempt-poses-new-test-for-u-s-democracy

https://thehill.com/opinion/national-security/4411720-assassination-attempts-are-on-the-rise-worldwide-is-the-us-next/

https://www.cfr.org/report/preventing-us-election-violence-2024

Follow Jacob on social media:

https://x.com/Jacob_A_Ware

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Wed, 17 Jul 2024 13:34:04 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-07-17:/posts/8542887 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep52: UK & French Elections, UK defence report and Russian information campaign exposed in US https://audioboom.com/posts/8541064 52 UK & French Elections, UK defence report and Russian information campaign exposed in US 8 5208 true full On today's episode, we will examine who’s who in the new Labour-led UK government, a report on the UK’s armed services, the French elections, and a recently discovered Russian covert information campaign.

On Extra Shot, our Patreon only show we will look at NATO’s 75th anniversary, terrorists returning to Afghanistan, a Chinese spy base in Cuba and GPS under attack.

To get access to Extra Shot you’ll need to become a Patreon subscriber. You can do that by clicking this link here:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-13-07-108077378?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

By joining our Patreon, you’ll be directly supporting this podcast. Depending on your level, you'll receive either a set of coasters or a free coffee cup as a thank you.

Links to articles

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0veg88g7jyo

https://inews.co.uk/news/uk-intelligence-warning-starmer-major-security-threats-election-3152924

https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/new-defence-secretary-john-healey-addresses-mod-staff/

https://rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/hollow-force-choices-uk-armed-forces

https://www.politico.eu/article/marine-le-pen-france-elections-2024-national-rally-paris-jordan-bardella-emmanuel-macron-europe/

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/09/business/russian-bots-artificial-intelligence-propaganda.html

On Extra Shot

https://carnegieendowment.org/emissary/2024/07/nato-summit-ukraine-russia-war

https://8am.media/eng/the-taliban-host-terrorist-groups-four-new-settlements-built-for-al-qaeda-and-ttp/

https://features.csis.org/hiddenreach/china-cuba-spy-sigint/

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/07/02/world/gps-threats.html?campaign_id=190&emc=edit_ufn_20240708&instance_id=128218&nl=from-the-times&regi_id=172310860&segment_id=171610&te=1&user_id=0e295462ed2f443b418b1b6c162349bd

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Secrets & Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.

]]> Sat, 13 Jul 2024 19:37:02 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-07-13:/posts/8541064 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep51: How the KGB and the FSB attempt to subvert Western democracies with Mark Hollingsworth https://audioboom.com/posts/8535260 51 How the KGB and the FSB attempt to subvert Western democracies with Mark Hollingsworth 8 4596 false full On today’s episode, Chris speaks with author and journalist Mark Hollingsworth about his book Agents of Influence, which looks at how the KGB attempted to subvert Western democracies during the Cold War and how its replacement agency, the FSB, attempts to do the same now.

Check out Mark’s website for information about him, his book and his other work: https://markhollingsworth.co.uk/

And get a copy of “Agents of Influence” here: https://markhollingsworth.co.uk/agents_of_influence/

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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Secrets & Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.]]> Fri, 05 Jul 2024 22:31:52 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-07-05:/posts/8535260 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep50: Conspiracies, Disinformation, and Mission Implausible with John Sipher and Jerry O’Shea https://audioboom.com/posts/8531432 50 Conspiracies, Disinformation, and Mission Implausible with John Sipher and Jerry O’Shea 8 2804 false full On today’s episode, Matt speaks to former senior CIA officers and now co-founders of Spycraft Entertainment, John Sipher and Jerry O’Shea, to discuss their podcast, Mission Implausible.

In their careers with the clandestine service, John and Jerry, in a sense, created conspiracies, convincing terrorists and hostile foreign governments to believe things that were not true. Now, they’re looking into past and present conspiracy theories to assess what’s real and what isn’t and explore why so many are eager to believe the most outlandish ideas.

Listen and subscribe to Mission Implausible: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-mission-implausible-146774875/

Spycraft Entertainment: https://spycraftentertainment.com/

Follow John on Twitter: https://x.com/john_sipher

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Fri, 28 Jun 2024 21:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-06-28:/posts/8531432 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep49: God, Guns, and Sedition with Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware https://audioboom.com/posts/8527978 49 God, Guns, and Sedition with Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware 8 3294 true full On today’s episode, Matt is joined by terrorism experts Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware to discuss their book, "God, Guns, and Sedition: Far-Right Terrorism in America.” Both are fellows at the Council on Foreign Relations and teach at Georgetown University. Their book examines the far-right’s long embrace of political violence as a tactic, its proliferation through social media, and provides a range of policy advice to counter this movement and extremism in democratic societies.

Purchase God, Guns, and Sedition: https://www.amazon.com/God-Guns-Sedition-Far-Right-Terrorism/dp/0231211228

Bruce and Jacob’s work for the Council on Foreign Relations:

https://www.cfr.org/expert/bruce-hoffman

https://www.cfr.org/expert/jacob-ware

Follow Bruce and Jacob on Twitter:

https://x.com/hoffman_bruce

https://x.com/Jacob_A_Ware


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Fri, 21 Jun 2024 14:23:32 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-06-21:/posts/8527978 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep48: Espresso Martini: Hamas leaders messages, Europe & China, Chinese spies and potential ISIS-K plot foiled in USA https://audioboom.com/posts/8524595 48 Espresso Martini: Hamas leaders messages, Europe & China, Chinese spies and potential ISIS-K plot foiled in USA 8 4499 true full On today’s show, we are going to look at reports about private messages from the leader of Hamas, criticisms of Europe’s outdated approach to China, a former CIA officer and FBI linguist pleading guilty to spying for China, and a potential plot from ISIS-K foiled in the US.

Then we will move to our Patreon only show “Extra Shot” we will look at Europe on high alert to Russian sabotage, Russian backed online efforts to disrupt the Olympics, a Fugitive sheriff from Florida who has a new career as an online propagandist in Russia and we will wrap up looking at a piece about Chinese espionage efforts in the west.  

You will need to be a Patreon subscriber to get access to Extra Shot. Click here to subscribe and listen to Extra Shot:
 https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-15th-106240850?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Articles discussed

https://edition.cnn.com/2024/06/11/middleeast/sinwar-hamas-israel-ceasefire-hostage-talks-intl/index.html

https://thediplomat.com/2024/06/in-the-new-cold-war-europes-approach-to-china-is-already-outdated/

https://apnews.com/article/cia-fbi-officer-spying-china-56865d1f194b94c014afcef9c53b0b30

https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-border-fbi-homeland-security-7088e6f665f095ad38186cafe69bbddd

https://www.foreignaffairs.com/tajikistan/new-recruiting-ground-isis

On Extra Shot we look at

https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/may/30/europe-on-high-alert-after-suspected-moscow-linked-arson-and-sabotage

https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/2024/06/02/russia-cyber-bots-disinformation-2024-paris-olympics/

https://www.newsguardtech.com/special-reports/john-mark-dougan-russian-disinformation-network/

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cmm33rm32veo


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Sat, 15 Jun 2024 08:30:07 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-06-15:/posts/8524595 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies No show this weekend, we will return next weekend. https://audioboom.com/posts/8520497 25 false full Hi all, we hope you are well. Sadly, due to work commitments on Chris's side, there will be no show this weekend. We will return next weekend.

Support Secrets and Spies:

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon from £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Sat, 08 Jun 2024 10:42:36 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-06-08:/posts/8520497 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep47: London Met Murder Investigation Team with Steven Keogh https://audioboom.com/posts/8516859 47 London Met Murder Investigation Team with Steven Keogh 8 3473 true full On todays podcast I am joined be retired detective and author Steven Keogh. Steven investigated murders at Scotland Yard for 12 years, and he joins us to discuss his excellent book “Murder Investigation Team” which gives readers an insight into how British murder investigations are run and what it is like to be a part of a murder investigation.

Check out Steven’s website to find out more about Steven, his book and his online course for crime writers: https://stevekeogh.com/

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3 
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our Red Bubble shop: 
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Subscribe to our Youtube page:
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For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Sat, 01 Jun 2024 09:37:18 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-06-01:/posts/8516859 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep46: Espresso Martini: Iran’s President is killed, Israel & Iranian espionage comparisons and secret Hamas surveillance files. https://audioboom.com/posts/8511489 46 Espresso Martini: Iran’s President is killed, Israel & Iranian espionage comparisons and secret Hamas surveillance files. 8 3502 true full On today’s show, we are going to look at the death of the Iranian President, Israel &
Iran espionage comparisons, and we finish by looking at secret Hamas files that expose a mass surveillance campaign in Gaza.

Then we will move to our Patreon only show “Extra Shot” we will look at reports of
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau not taking the work of its intelligence agency
CSIS seriously. We also look at Chinese research advances in brain-computer interfaces, then we look at the FBI cutting ties with Russian informants and we wrap up with a new look at CIA funding of art works during the Cold War.

You will need to be a Patreon subscriber to get access to Extra Shot.

Click here to subscribe and listen to Extra Shot:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-25th-104921299?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Articles discussed in the show:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/05/20/iran-president-raisi-deathspeculation/

https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2024/05/israel-iran-espionage-comparison/678389/

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/13/world/europe/secret-hamas-files-palestinians.html


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Sat, 25 May 2024 17:23:25 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-05-25:/posts/8511489 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep45: What President Raisi’s death means for Iran https://audioboom.com/posts/8510674 45 What President Raisi’s death means for Iran 8 4698 true full On today’s episode, Matt is once again joined by Phillip Smyth, one of the leading researchers of Iranian-backed militia groups, to discuss the death of President Ebrahim Raisi and several other senior officials in a helicopter crash last weekend. They unpack what this unexpected development means for Iran domestically, the regime’s web of proxy forces, and the wider Middle East.

Phillip’s work for The Washington Institute for Near East Policy: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth

Phillip’s work for West Point’s Combatting Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/authors/phillip-smyth/

Follow Phillip on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhillipSmyth

Support Secrets and Spies:

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Thu, 23 May 2024 20:34:27 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-05-23:/posts/8510674 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep44: Havana Syndrome from a technological and medical perspective. https://audioboom.com/posts/8507332 44 Havana Syndrome from a technological and medical perspective. 8 3897 false full On today’s podcast, I am joined by two guests, Dr. Chris Gilbert and Dr. Eric Haseltine, and we discuss Havana Syndrome from a technological and medical perspective.

Dr Chris Gilbert is an Integrative and Holistic Medicine physician who has interviewed victims of these so-called Anomalous Health incidents, otherwise known as Havana Syndrome.  

Dr Haseltine is a neuroscientist and author who worked as the NSA's research director before becoming the director of science and technology for the US intelligence community. He wrote an excellent book called “The Spy In Moscow Station”, which may well hold the key to what is behind Havana Syndrome.

Dr Chris Gilbert Website
https://drchrisgilbert.com/about/

Dr Chris Gilbert Blog
https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/heal-the-mind-heal-the-body

Dr Haseltine Website
https://www.drhaseltine.com/

Dr Haseltine Blog
https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/long-fuse-big-bang?page=3


Support Secrets and Spies:

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon from £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Fri, 17 May 2024 15:49:27 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-05-17:/posts/8507332 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep43: Espresso Martini: Plot to kill Zelensky, Russian sabotage plots, and Chinese hacking. https://audioboom.com/posts/8503654 43 Espresso Martini: Plot to kill Zelensky, Russian sabotage plots, and Chinese hacking. 8 3569 true full On today's show, we are going to look at a failed plot to kill President Zelensky, fears of Russian sabotage in Europe, spy plots being foiled in Germany, and awkward talks between the US and China about Volt Typhoon, one of China’s hacking operations against the west.

Then we will move to our Patreon only show “Extra Shot” and we will look at privacy concerns in the age of AI, then we will turn our attention to the plot to discredit democracy,  Putin propagandists in Russia left dismayed as the US finally passes its aid to Ukraine bill and we will finish up looking at the sad state of the Royal Navy which has become a show of its former self after decades of successive cuts.

To listen to Extra Shot you will need to become a Patreon subscriber. Just go to the link in the show notes and pick the subscription level that works for you, or go to Patreon.co/secretsandspies


You will need to be a Patreon subscriber to get access to Extra Shot. Click here to subscribe and listen to Extra Shot: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-11th-104022410?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Articles discussed on the show:

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/07/world/europe/ukraine-russia-zelensky-plot.html

https://www.ft.com/content/c88509f9-c9bd-46f4-8a5c-9b2bdd3c3dd3

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2024/05/04/german-spy-plots-alternative-for-germany-far-right-authorit/

https://therecord.media/china-volt-typhoon-direct-talks-us-china



Support Secrets and Spies:

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Fri, 10 May 2024 21:29:21 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-05-10:/posts/8503654 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep42: Agent Of The Iron Cross With Bill Mills https://audioboom.com/posts/8500611 42 Agent Of The Iron Cross With Bill Mills 8 2820 true full Chris is joined by historian and author Bill Mills on today's podcast. They discuss Bill’s research into German sabotage and espionage operations in the United States during World War One and how that led to Bill’s new book “Agent of the Iron Cross.”

To find out more about “Agent of the Iron Cross” and to get a copy, visit the publisher's website here:
https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781538182079/Agent-of-the-Iron-Cross-The-Race-to-Capture-German-Saboteur-Assassin-Lothar-Witzke-during-World-War-I


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3
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Buy merchandise from our shop:
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Subscribe to our YouTube page:
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For more information about the podcast, check out our website:
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Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Mon, 06 May 2024 03:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-05-05:/posts/8500611 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep41: The reality behind “A Spy Alone” with Charles Beaumont https://audioboom.com/posts/8500156 41 The reality behind “A Spy Alone” with Charles Beaumont 8 4548 true full On today’s podcast, Chris is joined by former MI6 Officer turned best-selling author Charles Beaumont. They discuss the real-life inspiration behind Charle’s debut spy novel, “A Spy Alone”, and a little bit about his career in MI6. Charles also shares his literary influences, his approach to writing fiction and some tips if you are thinking of a career in intelligence.

Please note that in this episode we have disguised Charles’s voice.

To find out more about “A Spy Alone” and to get a copy visit the publisher's website here: https://www.canelo.co/books/a-spy-alone-charles-beaumont/

To connect with Charles you can follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Cb20226


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop:
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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Sat, 04 May 2024 04:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-05-03:/posts/8500156 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep40: Israel and Iran climb (and descend?) the escalation ladder with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8498822 40 Israel and Iran climb (and descend?) the escalation ladder with Phillip Smyth 8 5478 true full On today’s episode, Matt welcomes back Phillip Smyth, one of the leading researchers of Iranian-backed militia groups in the Middle East. This time, they discuss last month’s exchange of missiles, drones, and airstrikes between Israel and Iran. Phillip helps unpack what triggered this latest cycle of violence, gauge Iran’s intent behind an unprecedented attack against Israel itself, and look ahead at how it may impact the war in Gaza and the wider conflict throughout the region.

Phillip’s work for The Washington Institute for Near East Policy: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth

Phillip’s work for West Point’s Combatting Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/authors/phillip-smyth/

Follow Phillip on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhillipSmyth

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

]]> Wed, 01 May 2024 16:20:31 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-05-01:/posts/8498822 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies No Espresso Martini or Extra Shot this weekend https://audioboom.com/posts/8496172 31 false full Hi all, due to essential maintenance works at London HQ, there won't be an Espresso Martini or Extra Shot this weekend. We are very sorry about this. We will have a new podcast out next weekend, so please stay tuned.

We hope you all have an excellent weekend and we will catch you on the next episode.

All the best
Chris & Matt]]> Thu, 25 Apr 2024 20:20:18 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-04-25:/posts/8496172 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep39: The legal case for the victims of Havana Syndrome with Mark S. Zaid https://audioboom.com/posts/8493626 39 The legal case for the victims of Havana Syndrome with Mark S. Zaid 8 3298 false full On today’s podcast, Chris is joined by national security Lawyer Mark S. Zaid. They discuss the legal case for the victims of the Anomalous Health Incidents, more popularly known as Havana Syndrome. Mark discusses the US government's denial and how that affects his clients, who have had their lives disrupted by these alleged attacks. 

You can find out more about Mark and his work here: https://markzaid.com/

You can follow Mark on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/MarkSZaidEsq

If you feel politicians and decision-makers should be doing more to help the victims of these attacks, you can contact Politicians via the links below:

Contact your Senator: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm
Contact your MP: https://www.parliament.uk/get-involved/contact-an-mp-or-lord/contact-your-mp/



Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Mon, 22 Apr 2024 03:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-04-20:/posts/8493626 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep38: Directed energy and Havana Syndrome with Dr. James Giordano https://audioboom.com/posts/8492739 38 Directed energy and Havana Syndrome with Dr. James Giordano 8 3451 false full On today’s podcast Chris is joined by Dr James Giordano. Dr Giordano served as the consulting neuroscientist on research into the original cases of Havana Syndrome.

Dr. James Giordano is a neuroscientist and neuroethicist, whose work focuses upon mechanisms and treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, and neuroethical issues arising from the use and misuse of neuroscientific techniques and technologies.

Dr Giordano wrote a fantastic article titled “Directed Energy Remains Key Suspect Behind Havana Syndrome” which looks at Dr Giordano’s research on directed energy devices and their potential weaponisation.

You can read that article here: https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2024/4/4/directed-energy-remains-key-suspect-behind-havana-syndrome

You can find out more about Dr. Giordano’s work at the links below: 

Georgetown University
https://gufaculty360.georgetown.edu/s/contact/00336000014Tm4oAAC/james-giordano

Bio Defense Research
https://biodefenseresearch.org/the-institute-for-biodefense-research-announces-dr-james-giordano-as-new-executive-director/


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3 
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


]]> Find out about the secret world of directed energy research and Havana Syndrome. Sat, 20 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-04-18:/posts/8492739 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep37: Former US Navy Captain Gene Moran on the Houthi threat in the Red Sea https://audioboom.com/posts/8490975 37 Former US Navy Captain Gene Moran on the Houthi threat in the Red Sea 8 3319 false full On today’s podcast, Chris is joined by Former US Navy Destroyer Captain Gene Moran to discuss the Houthi Threat in the Red Sea. In this episode, they look at the background of the Houthis, the threat that they pose, and how the US Navy and its allies are dealing with that threat. They then discuss life on a ship during a time of conflict and finish up with Gene explaining what more he thinks could be done to counter this threat. 

You can find out more about Gene and his work here: 
https://www.genemoran.com/

You can connect with Gene on LinkedIn here: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/genemoran

Check out Gene’s books on his Amazon page: 
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Gene-Moran/author/B07YW9RLMD?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Mon, 15 Apr 2024 21:14:38 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-04-15:/posts/8490975 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep36: Espresso Martini: Putin exploits ISIS-K attack, House Republicans hold up US aid to Ukraine, and new Havana Syndrome information. https://audioboom.com/posts/8490157 36 Espresso Martini: Putin exploits ISIS-K attack, House Republicans hold up US aid to Ukraine, and new Havana Syndrome information. 8 4010 true full On today’s episode, we are going to look at Putin exploiting the ISIS-K attack for his war on Ukraine, House Republicans holding up US aid to Ukraine, and we will wrap up looking at new revelations on Havana Syndrome.

Then we will move to our Patreon only show “Extra Shot”. On that we will look at Chinese Disinformation efforts targeting the US elections, a Chinese Drone flying over the Sea of Japan, the results of a recent survey that suggests some US gun owners would engage in political violence, and we wrap up looking at Hollywood’s depiction of espionage in Film & TV. 


You will need to be a Patreon subscriber to get access to Extra Shot. Click here to subscribe and listen to Extra Shot: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-13-04-102258042?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link



Articles discussed:
https://cepa.org/article/moscow-terror-attack-a-lie-too-good-to-waste/

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/01/us/politics/mike-johnson-ukraine-aid.html

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/08/mike-johnson-ukraine-aid-congress-republicans

https://theins.ru/en/politics/270425


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

]]> Sat, 13 Apr 2024 07:51:45 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-04-13:/posts/8490157 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep35: Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu imprisoned in Azerbaijan https://audioboom.com/posts/8487870 35 Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu imprisoned in Azerbaijan 8 4453 true full On today’s podcast, we are joined by Ibad Bayramov, and we discuss the imprisonment of his father, Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu, in Azerbaijan.

Dr Ibadoghlu is an economics professor who was a visiting professor at the London School of Economics and a leading figure in the opposition in Azerbaijan. In July 2023, he was arrested and held by Azerbaijan authorities while visiting family. He is facing up to 12 years in prison for the production, acquisition, or sale of counterfeit money by an organised group and allegedly possessing extremist material—charges he denies.

Find out more about Dr Ibadoghlu at the Gubad Files Website: https://thegubadfiles.com/

You can connect with and follow Ibad here:  https://twitter.com/BayramovIbad

Ibad’s sister Zhala is also on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BayramovaZhala


You can contact Politicians via the links below:

Contact your Senator: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm
Contact your MP: https://www.parliament.uk/get-involved/contact-an-mp-or-lord/contact-your-mp/


You can read more on some of the topics Ibad mentions about the political situation in Azerbaijan

Detention of Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu
https://edm.parliament.uk/early-day-motion/61412/detention-of-dr-gubad-ibadoghlu-in-azerbaijan

https://www.bushcenter.org/publications/the-struggle-for-freedom-an-azerbaijani-economist-who-stands-up-to-aliyevs-kleptocracy

Concerns about Dr Ibadoghlu’s health
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/14/health-of-lse-academic-detained-in-azerbaijan-at-risk-say-family

US could do more to help Dr Ibadoghlu
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/08/11/united-states-must-do-more-help-gubad-ibadoghlu/

Doubt about the validity of Azerbaijan’s elections
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-68237326

Caviar diplomacy
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caviar_diplomacy

Pandora Papers
https://www.rferl.org/a/pandora-papers-tax-havens/31490744.html
https://www.theguardian.com/news/2021/oct/03/queen-crown-estate-bought-property-family-azerbaijan-ruler

Azerbaijani Laundromat
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/sep/04/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-azerbaijani-laundromat

Azerbaijan adopt harsh tactics against the opposition
https://eurasianet.org/azerbaijani-government-adopts-still-harsher-tactics-against-opposition

Human Rights report on Azerbaijan - Torture and Ill-Treatment in Detention
https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2023/country-chapters/azerbaijan

BP and Azerbijan
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/nov/08/bp-projects-have-helped-fund-azerbaijan-military-aggession-say-campaigners

UK Gov Risk Guidance on doing business in Azerbaijan
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/overseas-business-risk-azerbaijan/overseas-business-risk-azerbaijan


Support Secrets and Spies:

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

]]> Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:20:22 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-04-09:/posts/8487870 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep34: Moscow ISIS-K attack, Ukriane update and Ukraine Intelligence https://audioboom.com/posts/8484307 34 Moscow ISIS-K attack, Ukriane update and Ukraine Intelligence 8 7859 false full In today’s episode, we welcome Dr Taras Kuzio, who has just returned from a trip to Ukraine.

Dr. Taras Kuzio is a Professor in the Department of Political Science at the National University of Kyiv Mohyla Academy and an Associate Research Fellow at the Henry Jackson Society. Winner of the 2022 Peterson Literary Prize for Russian Nationalism and the Russian-Ukrainian War: Autocracy-Orthodoxy-Nationality (Routledge, 2022).

In the first section, we discuss the recent ISIS-K terrorist attack in Moscow and how President Putin is capitalising on that atrocity and attempting to blame Ukraine. We look at new Ukrainian tactics against Russia and an increasingly risk-averse US government to give Ukraine what it needs to defeat Russia.

We then shift focus to Dr Kuzio’s trip to Ukraine, in which he shares his observations, and then we look at how President Zelensky is holding up after recent reports that he has been at loggerheads with senior members of the Ukraine military. We also discuss some of the talking points about Ukraine on both sides of the political spectrum in the British and American press.

After the break, we’ll shift our focus to the lesser-known realm of the Ukrainian intelligence services and special forces, shedding light on their roles and actions.

So, it’s a pretty jam-packed episode, and we end with a few bonus questions about the Nord Stream pipeline attack, a strange conversation I had with a taxi driver in London about Ukraine that left me scratching my head, and a brief chat about Alexi Navalny’s links to the Russian far-right.

So pour yourself your favourite drink, make yourself comfortable and immerse yourself in an episode packed with revelations, analysis, and unexpected stories.

Lawrence Freedman Substack mentioned:
https://substack.com/profile/69709932-lawrence-freedman

New York Times Article mentioned:
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/25/world/europe/cia-ukraine-intelligence-russia-war.html

Connect with Dr Kuzio: https://twitter.com/TarasKuzio


Support Secrets and Spies:

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3
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]]> Fri, 05 Apr 2024 10:50:43 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-04-05:/posts/8484307 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8: Easter sample of Extra Shot our Patreon only show https://audioboom.com/posts/8481233 8 3296 true full As it's the Easter weekend, Chris and Matt are away. So today, we are going to share a sample episode of "Extra Shot," our Patreon-only show that immediately follows each episode of "Espresso Martini."

To get access to future and past episodes of "Extra Shot" please subscribe here:
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

In this edition of Extra Shot, we will look at recommendations for a shake-up of British intelligence, the arrest of an alleged member of the Red Army Faction in Germany, we also look at the conviction of a left-wing terrorist in the UK and a cyber-attack against an Iranian spy ship. 

Links to articles discussed:

https://therecord.media/british-former-spy-chiefs-shakeup

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-68415892

https://news.sky.com/story/left-wing-anarchist-guilty-of-terror-offences-after-declaring-he-wanted-to-kill-mps-13072775

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/investigations/us-conducted-cyberattack-suspected-iranian-spy-ship-rcna138638

NSPCC: “Spotting the signs of radicalisation”

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/reporting-abuse/dedicated-helplines/protecting-children-from-radicalisation/

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3 
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996
 
Subscribe to our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Sat, 30 Mar 2024 11:37:34 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-03-30:/posts/8481233 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep33: Espresso Martini: Tactical nukes, Spies in Brussels, Turkish spies in the West and more https://audioboom.com/posts/8477801 33 Espresso Martini: Tactical nukes, Spies in Brussels, Turkish spies in the West and more 8 4658 false full On today’s episode, we are going to look at how close we got to Russia using nukes in Ukraine, spies wining and dining in Brussels, Russia setting up fake news sites and more.

Then we will move to our Patreon-only show, “Extra Shot”. On that, we will look at how to run a CIA station abroad, SAS soldiers accused of murder, reports that the King has died and more.

Get Patreon access to Extra Shot here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-23rd-100909002?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Articles

https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/09/politics/us-prepared-rigorously-potential-russian-nuclear-strike-ukraine?cid=ios_app

https://www.politico.eu/article/belgian-justice-minister-only-tip-iceberg-brussels-spy-problem-known/

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/07/business/media/russia-us-news-sites.html

https://www.axios.com/2024/03/10/antarctica-china-science-geopolitics

https://nordicmonitor.com/2024/03/turkey-escalates-covert-intelligence-activities-in-europe-and-north-america/

Our restaurant recommendation in Brussels: Meet Meat Steak & Wine House
https://meetmeat.be/


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Sat, 23 Mar 2024 10:26:29 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-03-23:/posts/8477801 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep32: The US government’s search for alien life with Garrett Graff https://audioboom.com/posts/8474074 32 The US government’s search for alien life with Garrett Graff 8 3076 false full On today’s episode, Matt is joined by investigative journalist, bestselling author, and Pulitzer Prize finalist Garrett Graff. His latest book, “UFO: The Inside Story of the US Government's Search for Alien Life Here—and Out There,” draws from original archival research, declassified documents, and interviews with senior intelligence and military officials to explore America’s obsession with UFOs and the government’s decades-long pursuit of answers to the age-old question: Are we alone in the universe?

Purchase UFO on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/UFO-Inside-Governments-Search-Here_and/dp/1982196777/

Garrett’s website: https://www.garrettgraff.com/

Follow Garrett on Twitter: https://twitter.com/vermontgmg

Follow Garrett on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@vermontgmg

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Fri, 15 Mar 2024 14:28:50 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-03-15:/posts/8474074 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep31: The Discord Leaks with Shane Harris https://audioboom.com/posts/8470943 31 The Discord Leaks with Shane Harris 8 2734 true full On today’s episode, The Washington Post’s Pulitzer Prize-winning intelligence correspondent, Shane Harris, joins Matt to discuss the “Discord Leaks” and the air national guardsman who, earlier this week, pleaded guilty to charges of willful retention and transmission of US national defense information, an act that’s been called the largest disclosure of classified material in years. Shane shares his reporting on who this man is, what he leaked, and his bewildering motivations for doing so.

Read Shane’s reporting for The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/shane-harris/

Watch the Post and PBS Frontline’s documentary on the leaks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AkgkBEuEHwU

Follow Shane on Twitter: https://twitter.com/shaneharris

Follow Shane on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shanewharris

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


]]> Sat, 09 Mar 2024 06:45:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-03-08:/posts/8470943 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep30: Espresso Martini: Leaked Russian documents, defector shot in Spain, CIA's relationship with Ukrainian intelligence https://audioboom.com/posts/8467338 30 Espresso Martini: Leaked Russian documents, defector shot in Spain, CIA's relationship with Ukrainian intelligence 8 4389 true full In today's episode, we are going to look at a leak of Russian documents about their threshold for using nuclear weapons, the assassination of a Russian defector in Spain, details on the cooperation between the CIA and Ukraine intelligence services and more.

Then we will move to our Patreon-only show, “Extra Shot”. On that we will look at recommendations for a shake-up of British intelligence, the arrest of an alleged member of the Red Army Faction in German, we also look at the conviction of a left-wing terrorist in the UK and a cyber-attack against an Iranian spy ship. 

You can listen to Extra Shot here:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-2nd-99562088?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Links to articles discussed:

https://www.ft.com/content/f18e6e1f-5c3d-4554-aee5-50a730b306b7

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/20/world/europe/russian-pilot-maksim-kuzminov-spain.html

https://www.sandboxx.us/news/the-man-who-stole-americas-stealth-fighters-for-china/

https://dnyuz.com/2024/02/25/the-spy-war-how-the-c-i-a-secretly-helps-ukraine-fight-putin/

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/27/world/middleeast/biden-israel-hamas-cease-fire.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare



Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:58:09 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-03-01:/posts/8467338 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep29: The death of Alexei Navalny and its consequences with Edward Lucas https://audioboom.com/posts/8461599 29 The death of Alexei Navalny and its consequences with Edward Lucas 8 1567 false full On today’s podcast, I am joined by Edward Lucas to discuss the death of Alexei Navalny and its consequences. 

Edward is the author of the 2008 book “The New Cold War”. He has been warning us for many years of an increasingly aggressive Russian foreign policy dictated by President Vladimir Putin. When Edwards's book came out in 2008, he was largely ignored, and the recent invasion of Ukraine and countless assassinations abroad have shown us that we cannot ignore or dismiss President Putin and his geopolitical aims.

Edward was selected as the Liberal Democrat prospective parliamentary candidate for the constituency of Cities of London and Westminster and he will run in the next general election.

You can find out more about Edward Lucas here: https://www.edwardlucas.com/about

Support Secrets and Spies:

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]]> Wed, 21 Feb 2024 18:15:53 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-02-21:/posts/8461599 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep28: Espresso Martini: Russian space weapons, Tucker Carlson in Russia and a beheading in Pennsylvania https://audioboom.com/posts/8459505 28 Espresso Martini: Russian space weapons, Tucker Carlson in Russia and a beheading in Pennsylvania 8 4856 true full In today's episode, we are going to look at a potential new Russian threat in space, then we are going to look at Tucker Carlson’s trip to Russia, then look at Russian efforts to destabilise US politics, and more.

Then we will move to our Patreon-only show, “Extra Shot”. On that, we will look at the rise of the AFD in Germany, the Cult of AI, the impact of AI on elections in Indonesia, and the return of an old Cold War spymaster.

You can listen to Extra Shot here:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-17th-98642658?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Links to articles discussed:

https://www.twz.com/space/alarm-raised-over-destabilizing-new-russian-threat-in-space-reports

https://carnegieendowment.org/politika/91614

https://www.wired.com/story/russia-disinformation-campaign-civil-war-texas-border/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2024/01/31/levittown-pennsylvania-beheading-justin-mohn-youtube/


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
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For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

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]]> Sat, 17 Feb 2024 11:42:49 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-02-17:/posts/8459505 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep27: The Path Ahead For The Middle East with Laura Rozen https://audioboom.com/posts/8457808 27 The Path Ahead For The Middle East with Laura Rozen 8 2643 false full On today’s episode, Matt speaks with the veteran foreign policy journalist and Middle East watcher, Laura Rozen. After four months of war between Israel and Hamas, the conflict seems to be entering a new phase with the possibility of another ceasefire on the horizon. Laura joins us to unpack what she’s seeing from her reporting and discuss the delicate ongoing diplomatic talks between the US, Israel, and the Arab states on how a post-war Gaza would be governed and what it might mean for the region.

Follow Laura on Twitter: https://twitter.com/lrozen

Subscribe to Laura on Substack: https://diplomatic.substack.com/

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Wed, 14 Feb 2024 15:27:28 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-02-14:/posts/8457808 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep26: US Airstrikes in Iraq & Syria with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8453691 26 US Airstrikes in Iraq & Syria with Phillip Smyth 8 3888 false full Phillip Smyth, a leading researcher of Iranian-backed militia groups, returns to Secrets and Spies to unpack the January 28th drone attack against a US military outpost in Jordan that killed three service members and the resulting round of airstrikes beginning on February 2nd targeting the militias believed to be responsible. He gives his take on the degree of Iranian control over these militias, analyzes the effectiveness of the US response thus far, and tells us what, if anything, can be done to deter future attacks.

Follow Phillip on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhillipSmyth.

Find Phillip’s work for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth.

Explore Phillip’s Shia Militia Mapping Project: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/shia-militia-mapping-project.

Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:39:19 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-02-06:/posts/8453691 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep25: The Year of the Locust with Terry Hayes https://audioboom.com/posts/8451309 25 The Year of the Locust with Terry Hayes 8 3608 false full On today’s episode, Matt speaks with the global best-selling author Terry Hayes. Following a storied career as a journalist, Hollywood screenwriter, and film producer, his 2014 debut novel, I Am Pilgrim, was a revelation in the spy genre and sold millions of copies worldwide. Ten years later, Terry returns with a long-anticipated follow-up, The Year of the Locust. They talk about his creative inspirations, why the book took a decade to complete, and how contemporary spy fiction can take a page from epic fantasy and science fiction. Every bit as gritty, sweeping, and intricately plotted as I Am Pilgrim, The Year of the Locust’s bold bending of conventions will surely make it one of the most talked-about thrillers of the year.

Terry Hayes’ author page: https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Terry-Hayes/15705144.

Order The Year of the Locust on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1668055783.


Support Secrets and Spies: 

Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u
 
Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

]]> Fri, 02 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-02-01:/posts/8451309 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep24: Espresso Martini: Strikes against the Houthi’s, Chinese spies and the hunt for Hamas’s spokesman Abu Obaida. https://audioboom.com/posts/8446350 24 Espresso Martini: Strikes against the Houthi’s, Chinese spies and the hunt for Hamas’s spokesman Abu Obaida. 8 3907 false full On today's show, we will be looking at the strikes against Houthi Rebels who have been attacking ships in the Red Sea; we will also look at the hunt for Hamas’s spoke person, Chinese spies recruiting Western politicians, more information on the Chinese spy balloon from last year and we will round off with a worrying story of an Iranian operative who was arrested in connection with a plot to kill Iranian journalists based in London.

Then we will move to our Patreon-only show, “Extra Shot”. On that, we will look at reports of China rebuilding its nuclear weapons testing facilities, the retirement of MI5’s longest-serving member; celebrities tricked into making propaganda videos, concerns of a former CIA officer about Trump returning to the White House and we will wrap up on the death of Gaston Glock, who created the legendary Glock pistol favoured by people on both sides of the law.  

You will need to be a Patreon subscriber to get access to Extra Shot. Click here to subscribe and listen: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-26th-97260730?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Links to articles discussed in Espresso Martini:

https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/new-airstrikes-target-houthi-forces-in-yemen

https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/why-hasnt-the-u-s-struck-back-after-red-sea-anti-ship-attacks

https://www.thedailybeast.com/israels-fervent-hunt-for-the-mysterious-hamas-spokesman-abu-obaida

https://www.ft.com/content/601df41f-8393-46ad-9f74-fe64f8ea1a3f

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/investigations/us-intelligence-officials-determined-chinese-spy-balloon-used-us-inter-rcna131150

https://news.sky.com/story/man-guilty-of-spying-on-london-based-tv-channel-iran-international-to-help-terror-plotters-13034011


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Fri, 26 Jan 2024 21:22:41 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-01-26:/posts/8446350 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep23: The Secret History of Area 51 with Peter Merlin https://audioboom.com/posts/8434360 23 The Secret History of Area 51 with Peter Merlin 8 3305 false full On today’s episode, Matt speaks with aerospace historian Peter Merlin, whose new book, “Dreamland: The Secret History of Area 51,” is the first authoritative, scholarly history ever published on the infamous top-secret base located deep in the Nevada desert. This isn’t a book about UFOs or conspiracy theories, but instead offers a sweeping, comprehensive study of the REAL Area 51, where for seventy years the US Air Force has developed and tested classified military aircraft like the U-2 and SR-71 spy planes, the F-117 stealth fighter, and numerous other projects that will remain a secret for decades to come.

Purchase Dreamland through Schiffer Publishing: https://schifferbooks.com/products/dreamland.

Find Dreamland and Peter’s other books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3APeter+W.+Merlin&s=relevancerank&text=Peter+W.+Merlin&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Sat, 20 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-01-18:/posts/8434360 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep22: UK release of Moscow X with former CIA analyst David McCloskey https://audioboom.com/posts/8429409 22 UK release of Moscow X with former CIA analyst David McCloskey 8 5029 true full With the UK release of "Moscow X", we dive into the vault and revisit Matt’s interview with spy novelist and former CIA analyst David McCloskey. 

David is best known for his critically acclaimed debut, Damascus Station; David returns with his latest thriller, Moscow X. Just as detailed, intricate, and vividly written as Damascus Station, Moscow X is set within the enigmatic layers of Putin’s Russia amidst the backdrop of the Ukraine War, where turmoil, intrigue, and betrayal intertwine in a riveting narrative that will keep you turning the pages. For any fans of the spy genre, this is not an interview you want to miss.

Moscow X is out now in the UK and available here: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/david-mccloskey/moscow-x/9781800753389/

For more info on David, check out his website here: https://www.davidmccloskeybooks.com/

Moscow X is also available from the following websites:

Amazon - https://a.co/d/6UtkEYC 

Indiebound - https://bookshop.org/p/books/moscow-x-david-mccloskey/19670054?ean=9781324050759

Amazon Pre-Order for UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Moscow-X-Novel-David-McCloskey-ebook/dp/B0BWLJ4K63

Amazon Pre-Order for Australia - https://www.amazon.com.au/Moscow-Damascus-Station-David-McCloskey-ebook/dp/B0BS24PP9F/ref=sr_1_5?crid=26R3NQ02RWOFF&keywords=moscow+x&qid=1695673531&sprefix=moscow+x%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-5

Amazon Pre-Order for New Zealand - https://www.amazon.com.au/Moscow-Damascus-Station-David-McCloskey-ebook/dp/B0BS24PP9F/ref=sr_1_5?crid=29JF1MD20FY40&keywords=moscow+X&qid=1695673614&sprefix=moscow+x%2Caps%2C200&sr=8-5

If you enjoyed the podcast please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Fri, 12 Jan 2024 17:47:36 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-01-12:/posts/8429409 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep21: 2024 Global forecast with Sam Lichtenstein from RANE https://audioboom.com/posts/8425925 21 2024 Global forecast with Sam Lichtenstein from RANE 8 3600 false full What does 2024 have in store for us? Well, on today's podcast, we are joined by Sam Liechtenstein from RANE, and we will discuss their global forecast for the year ahead.

2024 looks like it will be the most influential year yet, and that will set the tone for the rest of this decade. 

So, Pour yourself a drink, join us for the discussion and find out what to keep an eye on for the year ahead.

To find out more about RANE and its annual global forecast, please visit their website here: https://www.ranenetwork.com/


If you enjoyed the podcast, please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Fri, 05 Jan 2024 19:24:56 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2024-01-05:/posts/8425925 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep20: The Lion And The Fox with Alexander Rose https://audioboom.com/posts/8416050 20 The Lion And The Fox with Alexander Rose 8 2920 false full On todays podcast we are joined by author Alexander Rose and we discuss his epic American Civil War espionage book “The Lion And The Fox”. The book is a tale of two rival American spies in neutral Britain both entrusted with a vital mission.


You can now get a paperback copy of “The Lion And The Fox” here:
https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-lion-and-the-fox-alexander-rose?variant=41038091616290

To find out more about Alexander and his other works visit his website here: https://www.alexrose.com/

If you enjoyed the podcast please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Fri, 29 Dec 2023 03:42:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-12-13:/posts/8416050 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep19: Directing James Bond with John Glen https://audioboom.com/posts/8415818 19 Directing James Bond with John Glen 8 3610 false full On today's podcast, we are joined by James Bond director John Glen to discuss his work on the 1980s-era James Bond films, including Chris’s favourite James Bond film, “Licence To Kill”. 

Agent Scott from the excellent spy movie podcast Spy Hards joins us on this episode. 

You can get a copy of John Glen’s book “For My Eyes Only” on Amazon
https://www.amazon.co.uk/My-Eyes-Only-Life-James/dp/1574883690

You can listen and find out more about Spy Hards here: 
https://www.spyhards.com/

If you enjoyed the podcast, please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER”, now available on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Fri, 22 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-12-13:/posts/8415818 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep18: Spy Artist Prisoner with Lady Jane Reid https://audioboom.com/posts/8415795 18 Spy Artist Prisoner with Lady Jane Reid 8 1970 false full On todays podcast we are joined by Lady Jane Reid and we are going to talk about the biography of Romanian artist and World War Two Spy, George Tomaziu. Lady Reid, was the translator of the book and knew Tomaziu personally.

You can get a copy of Spy Artist Prisoner here: https://www.nickelbooks.co.uk/product/spy-artist-prisoner-1st-april/


If you enjoyed the podcast please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Tue, 19 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-12-13:/posts/8415795 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep17: Spy Game Trilogy, with Michael Frost Beckner and guest host Stephen England https://audioboom.com/posts/8415778 17 Spy Game Trilogy, with Michael Frost Beckner and guest host Stephen England 8 4677 false full We have a guest host for today’s show, a first for the podcast. Indie thriller author Stephen England talks with the spy novelist and screenwriter Michael Frost Beckner about his “Spy Game” trilogy, which was adapted into the 2001 film starring Robert Redford and Brad Pitt. He joins Stephen for a deep-dive into the trilogy, his broader career as a writer, and drops some details on books still to come.

Michael Frost Beckner’s website: https://www.michaelfrostbeckner.com/.

Stephen England’s website: https://www.stephenenglandbooks.com/


If you enjoyed the podcast please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


]]> Sat, 16 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-12-13:/posts/8415778 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep16: Espresso Martini: An alleged Cuban Mole, Traders profiting off 7th October attack and Israeli Intelligence Failures https://audioboom.com/posts/8413484 16 Espresso Martini: An alleged Cuban Mole, Traders profiting off 7th October attack and Israeli Intelligence Failures 8 4086 false full
On todays episode we will be looking at what the Israeli Intelligence services may have known before the 7th October Hamas terrorist attack. We will then look at reports of traders who may have benefited from the attacks. We have a developing spy scandal involving an alleged Cuban mole within the US State Department, and we will wrap up looking at a developing situation between Venezuela and Guyana over an oil-rich disputed territory. 

On Extra Shot, our exclusive Patreon show that follows this, we will be looking at the financing of Hamas, the ongoing ideological debate within US universities over the 7th October attacks, aggressive Sonar use by the Chinese navy targeting Australian naval divers, and we will end at reports of Ukrainian action against the main railway between Russia and China. 

You will need to be a Patreon subscriber to get access to Extra Shot. Click here to subscribe and listen: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-8th-94312976?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Articles discussed in Espresso Martini

Israel Knew Hamas’s Attack Plan More Than a Year Ago
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/30/world/middleeast/israel-hamas-attack-intelligence.html

Unknown traders appear to have anticipated October 7 Hamas attack, research finds 
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/12/04/business/some-traders-appear-to-have-anticipated-october-7-hamas-attack-research-finds/index.html

Former career US diplomat charged with secretly spying for Cuban intelligence for decades 
https://apnews.com/article/cuba-bolivia-former-ambassador-arrested-e30bf2d027e32ac8b66ff051062273dc

Cuban Spy Service Dazzles Again
https://open.substack.com/pub/spytalk/p/cuban-spy-service-dazzles-again?r=19kty&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=email

‘Despotic’ Maduro accused of risking Venezuela-Guyana  conflict over oil-rich region 
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/01/venezuela-oil-guyana-essequibo-vote-nicolas-maduro


Articles Discussed on Extra Shot

Hamas’s Main Source of Funding Might Surprise You 
https://newrepublic.com/article/176962/hamas-finances-funding-sources-palestinian-authority?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=tnr_daily&utm_term=&utm_content=

A Tale of Two Ivory Towers  
https://www.newsweek.com/tale-two-ivory-towers-opinion-1845433

Australia says, China navy used sonar pulses against divers
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/67461081

Ukraine's Security Service blows up railway linking Russia and China
https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2023/11/30/7431023/


If you enjoyed the podcast please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

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* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

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BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Fri, 08 Dec 2023 15:07:45 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-12-08:/posts/8413484 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep15: Russia’s War on Ukraine and the Anti Western Axis with Dr Taras Kuzio https://audioboom.com/posts/8409566 15 Russia’s War on Ukraine and the Anti Western Axis with Dr Taras Kuzio 8 3576 true full On today’s episode, Chris is joined again by Dr Taras Kuzio. They discuss the latest developments with Russia’s War on Ukraine and Dr Kuzio’s research on the Anti-Western Axis, which includes Russia, China, Iran and North Korea.

Dr Kuzio is a professor in the Department of Political Science at the National University of Kyiv Mohyla and a research fellow at the Henry Jackson Society. He is the Winner of the Peterson Literary Prize for his book "Russian Nationalism and Russian-Ukrainian War."

You can follow Dr Kuzio on Twitter/X here: https://twitter.com/TarasKuzio

If you enjoyed the podcast, please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

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Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:51:38 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-12-01:/posts/8409566 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep14: Iranian Militia Attacks on US Forces with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8407873 14 Iranian Militia Attacks on US Forces with Phillip Smyth 8 5005 false full On today’s episode, Matt is joined again by Phillip Smyth. Phillip is a leading expert on Iranian proxy groups, such as Hamas and Lebanese Hezbollah, and has conducted research at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and the University of Maryland. They discuss the spate of attacks by Iranian-backed militias against US forces in the Middle East since the Gaza War began. Phillip tells us who these groups are, what their strategy is, and if he sees potential for the violence to escalate.

Phillip’s research at the Washington Institute: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth.

Follow Phillip on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhillipSmyth.


If you enjoyed the podcast please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

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Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Tue, 28 Nov 2023 18:40:36 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-11-28:/posts/8407873 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep13: Hamas hostage deal, coming to terms with 7th October, Ukraine nuclear weapons and political dysfunction the greatest threat to the US https://audioboom.com/posts/8405388 13 Hamas hostage deal, coming to terms with 7th October, Ukraine nuclear weapons and political dysfunction the greatest threat to the US 8 6037 true full Happy Thanksgiving to our listeners in the US!

On today's episode we will be looking at the potential hostage deal with Hamas, we will also be looking at a few articles on how people are still coming to terms with the Hamas attacks, new information on the disastrous deal that led to Ukraine giving up it’s nuclear arsenal, and we will look at how political dysfunction is growing to be the number one threat to the US.

On Extra Shot, our exclusive Patreon show that follows this, we will be looking at growing tensions between Serbia and Kosovo, a ransomware cyber-attack that has cripple the British Library, Tik Toks latest icon and how to avoid conflict over the thanksgiving holidays in the US.

You will need to be a Patreon subscriber to get access to Extra Shot.

Click here to subscribe and listen:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/extra-shot-23rd-93392480?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Articles discussed in Espresso Martini

Hamas Hostages deal
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/11/21/politics/negotiations-israel-hamas-hostages?cid=ios_app


For Years, Two Men Shuttled Messages Between Israel and Hamas. No Longer.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/19/world/middleeast/israel-hamas-back-channel-gershon-hamad.html


All My Life, I’ve Watched Violence Fail the Palestinian Cause
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/11/israeli-palestinian-conflict-hope/675917/

Political Dysfunction is the greatest threat to US
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/11/13/america-disruption-superpower-national-security-suicide/

Deceit, Dread, and Disbelief: The Story of How Ukraine Lost Its Nuclear Arsenal
https://nationalinterest.org/feature/deceit-dread-and-disbelief-story-how-ukraine-lost-its-nuclear-arsenal-207076


Articles Discussed on Extra Shot

New European Article titled “The west must act to stop Balkans tensions boiling over by Petrit Selimi (Pe-Trit Sel-imi)
https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/the-west-must-act-to-stop-balkans-tensions-boiling-over/

BBC article titled: “British Library: Employee data leaked in cyber attack” By Yasmin Rufo
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-67484639

Is Bin Laden the new Che Guevara? 
https://www.msnbc.com/andrea-mitchell-reports/watch/viral-bin-laden-speech-is-a-failure-of-education-rhetoric-being-celebrated-is-appalling-198153797619

6 Tips to navigate a tense Thanksgiving Dinner
https://www.cnbc.com/2022/11/22/6-ways-to-handle-a-tense-thanksgiving-according-to-a-family-therapist.html


If you enjoyed the podcast please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

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]]> Thu, 23 Nov 2023 11:07:03 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-11-23:/posts/8405388 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep12: The Double Bind revisited - No Espresso Martini or Extra Shot this week https://audioboom.com/posts/8398876 12 The Double Bind revisited - No Espresso Martini or Extra Shot this week 8 2943 false full There won’t be an Espresso Martini today. Instead, Chris is re-sharing the first-ever episode in which he is joined by the author Meredith Tax, and they discuss her book “The Double Bind”, which looks at the problematic relationship between Anglo American left and the Muslim right.

Later in the podcast, they also discuss the role of Kurdish women in the fight against ISIS.

You can get a copy of the Double Bind here:

UK
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Double-Bind-Muslim-Anglo-American-Universal/dp/0988830302/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ZKEJ0U88CK4F&keywords=the+double+bind+meredith+tax&qid=1699649198&sprefix=the+double+bind+meredith+tax%2Caps%2C225&sr=8-1

US
https://www.amazon.com/Double-Bind-Muslim-Anglo-American-Universal/dp/0988830302/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2SGNS9LZ9PFXX&keywords=the+double+bind+meredith+tax&qid=1699649248&sprefix=the+double+bind+meredith+tax%2Caps%2C122&sr=8-1

AUS
https://www.amazon.com.au/Double-Bind-Muslim-Anglo-American-Universal/dp/0988830302/ref=sr_1_1?crid=238AGSX9HY3UG&keywords=THE+DOUBLE+BIND+MEREDITH+TAX&qid=1699649285&sprefix=the+double+bind+meredith+tax%2Caps%2C184&sr=8-1

If you enjoyed the podcast, please support the show and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot." Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

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Connect with us on social media. 

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]]> Fri, 10 Nov 2023 21:37:06 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-11-10:/posts/8398876 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep11: Israel-Hamas War with Malcolm Nance https://audioboom.com/posts/8394594 11 Israel-Hamas War with Malcolm Nance 8 4203 true full

On today's podcast, Chris is joined by Malcolm Nance, and they discuss the terrible 7th October attacks, the origins of Hamas, the Iranian connection and what may lie ahead for Israel’s war with Hamas.

You can read more of Malcolm Nance’s work on his substance here: https://malcolmnance.substack.com/

And you can watch his video Podcast “Black Man Spy” here: https://www.youtube.com/@blackmanspy-bo1lk/videos


If you enjoyed the podcast, please support the show by becoming a Patreon subscriber. You will get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot" and directly support the podcast. Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER”, which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Thu, 02 Nov 2023 21:30:51 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-11-02:/posts/8394594 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep10: Espresso Martini: Hamas Spies, Russian Sabotage and ATACMS for Ukraine https://audioboom.com/posts/8391724 10 Espresso Martini: Hamas Spies, Russian Sabotage and ATACMS for Ukraine 8 6002 false full On Espresso Martini, we take a look at the complexity of Gaza hostage rescue efforts and Hamas’s intelligence efforts in preparation for the 7th October Attacks. We also look at Ukraine receiving much-needed ATACMS missiles, Russia’s Unit 29155’s assassination and sabotage operations in Europe, and to finish up, we look at Donald Trump’s plans to withdraw the US from NATO.

On Extra Shot, our exclusive bonus Patreon show, we look at how storytelling helps trauma victims and how Elon Musk’s X is now rampant with misinformation. We also look at a surprising number of celebrities who once served as spies and offer our thoughts on Errol Morris’s new John Le Carré documentary, “The Pigeon Tunnel”

Get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot."

Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access:
https://www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Links discussed

Espresso Martini
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/hostage-rescue-experts-on-the-daunting-challenges-israel-faces

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/21/opinion/israel-hamas-hostage.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

https://www.spytalk.co/p/the-spies-of-hamas?utm_campaign=post

https://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-said-to-form-unit-tasked-with-killing-hamas-commandos-behind-oct-7-assault/

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/17/world/europe/ukraine-atacms-attacks-russia.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

https://theins.ru/en/politics/266039

https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/donald-trump-u-s-leave-nato-1234860016/

Extra Shot
https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2023/10/08/1203975027/what-survivors-of-trauma-have-taught-this-eminent-psychiatrist-about-hope?utm_source=pocket-newtab-en-gb

https://www.adweek.com/media/verified-accounts-x-spread-wartime-misinformation/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2023/10/22/celebrity-spies-houdini-fleming-baker/

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/19/movies/the-pigeon-tunnel-review.html

The Le CarréCast interview with Le Carré biographer Adam Sisman
https://lecarrecast.com/2023/10/21/adam-sisman-on-the-secret-life-of-john-le-carre/?fbclid=IwAR0EwkLWif1CYbPi3mrUCYTgKaqvjE0pBhkFqxUmKeJbBKkVQ-R9wInOz_0




Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Sat, 28 Oct 2023 09:02:21 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-10-28:/posts/8391724 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep9: Disrupting Time, a tale of watches and industrial espionage with Aaron Stark https://audioboom.com/posts/8389034 9 Disrupting Time, a tale of watches and industrial espionage with Aaron Stark 8 3829 true full On today's podcast, Chris is joined by author Aaron Stark, and they discuss Aaron’s book “Disrupting Time”, which looks at the battle between Swiss and American watch companies in the 1870s.

You can find out more about Aaron’s book “Disrupting Time” here: https://www.aaronstarkbooks.com/

Get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot."
Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Find out more about Matt Fulton and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Mon, 23 Oct 2023 19:20:26 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-10-23:/posts/8389034 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep8: Inside the Israel-Hamas War with Phillip Smyth https://audioboom.com/posts/8386958 8 Inside the Israel-Hamas War with Phillip Smyth 8 4123 true full On today’s episode, Matt is joined by Phillip Smyth. Phillip is a leading expert on Iranian-backed terrorist groups, such as Hamas and Lebanese Hezbollah, and has conducted research at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and the University of Maryland. They discuss Hamas’s attack on southern Israel, the question of Iran’s involvement, and the potential for the war to expand throughout the Middle East.

Content Warning: This episode contains some graphic descriptions of atrocities Hamas committed against Israeli civilians during the October 7th terrorist attack.

Phillip’s research at the Washington Institute: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/experts/phillip-smyth.

Follow Phillip on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhillipSmyth.


Get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot."
Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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]]> Thu, 19 Oct 2023 16:08:20 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-10-19:/posts/8386958 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep7: The Lumumba Plot with Stuart A. Reid https://audioboom.com/posts/8385223 7 The Lumumba Plot with Stuart A. Reid 8 3167 false full On today's podcast, we are joined by author Stuart A Reid, and we discuss his fantastic new book “The Lumumba Plot: The Secret History of the CIA and a Cold War Assassination”. The assassination target was the Congo’s first Prime Minister after independence from the Belgians, Patrice Lumumba.

You can find out more about Stuart and the book here: https://www.stuartareid.com/the-lumumba-plot

You can buy the book using the following Amazon links below:

Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Lumumba-Plot-Secret-History-Assassination-ebook/dp/B0BRMMVWBY/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10HKJBLFXVOXA&keywords=THE+LUMUMBA+PLOT&qid=1697477974&sprefix=the+lumumba+plot%2Caps%2C228&sr=8-1

New Zealand: https://www.amazon.com/Lumumba-Plot-Secret-History-Assassination/dp/1524748811/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1AQMXT0HR88Y0&keywords=the+lumumba+plot+stuart+reid&qid=1697478045&sprefix=the+lumu%2Caps%2C139&sr=8-1

UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lumumba-Plot-Secret-History-Assassination/dp/1524748811

USA: https://www.amazon.com/Lumumba-Plot-Secret-History-Assassination/dp/1524748811/ref=sr_1_1?crid=112OL1W0OJJRB&keywords=the+lumumba+plot+stuart+reid&qid=1697477912&sprefix=THE+LUMUMBA+%2Caps%2C172&sr=8-1


Support the podcast and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot."

Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
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SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

]]> Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:45:32 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-10-16:/posts/8385223 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep6: Espresso Martini: Hamas 7th October Attack in Israel https://audioboom.com/posts/8384498 6 Espresso Martini: Hamas 7th October Attack in Israel 8 6527 true full On this episode of Espresso Martini, we will focus on the appalling October 7th attack, in which the designated terrorist group Hamas launched a violent and bloody attack focused on Israeli civilians.

For the sake of clarity, we have decided our conversation into these areas:

* What happened
* Who are Hamas
* The geopolitics of what happened and the alleged role of outside support for Hamas
* The Israeli response and alleged intelligence failures
* The online reactions to what happened

Links to the articles we used for our discussion

What Happened

https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/10/10/how-hamas-entered-israel/

https://www.timesofisrael.com/death-toll-from-hamas-onslaught-passes-1000-idf-kills-terrorists-in-southern-israel/

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/oct/07/civilians-will-pay-price-for-biggest-challenge-to-israel-since-1973

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-67065205

Who Are Hamas

https://www.tahir-abbas.com/understanding-hamas-a-qa-on-the-groups-origins-leadership-and-goals/

https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2023/10/hamas-covenant-israel-attack-war-genocide/675602/

https://thearabweekly.com/hamas-leaders-seen-living-luxury-while-gazans-suffer

Geopolitics

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/oct/08/hamas-attack-has-abruptly-altered-the-picture-for-middle-east-diplomacy

https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2023/10/iran-hamas-israel-gaza-attack/675582/

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/12/bidens-saudi-israel-normalization-plans-distant-as-israel-pounds-gaza.html

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-67061453

https://thehill-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/thehill.com/opinion/international/4250708-putins-fingerprints-are-on-hamas/amp/

https://www.timesofisrael.com/zelensky-accuses-putin-of-backing-hamas-russian-leader-calls-for-palestinian-state/

Israeli response and alleged intelligence failures

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/10/world/middleeast/israel-gaza-security-failure.html?campaign_id=190&emc=edit_ufn_20231010&instance_id=104895&nl=f

https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/source-close-to-hamas-describes-years-long-campaign-to-fool-israel/

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/oct/12/israel-hamas-war-egypt-warned-foreign-affairs-gaza#:~:text=Earlier%20this%20week%2C%20the%20country's

https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2023/10/israels-netanyahu-has-little-choice-launch-gaza-ground-operation#ixzz8FxjFz4kd

https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/gaza-neighborhood-turned-to-rubble-rockets-rain-on-tel-aviv

Online Reactions

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/10/left-jewish-suffering-israel-hamas/675621/

https://www.jamesbloodworth.com/p/as-long-as-they-hate-us-they-must

https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/5050/double-bind-tied-up-in-knots-on-left/


Get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot."
Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

]]> Sat, 14 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-10-14:/posts/8384498 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep5: Best Thriller Books with Kashif Hussain https://audioboom.com/posts/8381265 5 Best Thriller Books with Kashif Hussain 8 3238 false full In this episode, Matt talks with Kashif Hussain from the blog "Best Thriller Books.” Kashif is a prolific reader in the spy genre and has written hundreds of reviews, including novels from all the famous authors you know and probably some you don’t know yet. They have a light discussion about his perspective on different issues in the genre, including publishing trends, audience tastes, and artificial intelligence.

Best Thriller Books main page: https://www.bestthrillerbooks.com/.

Kashif’s review page: https://www.bestthrillerbooks.com/kashif-hussain.

Best Thriller Books on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BestThrillBooks.


Support the podcast and get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot."

Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER”,available on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

BLUE SKY https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies
TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Mon, 09 Oct 2023 20:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-10-09:/posts/8381265 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep4: Espresso Martini: Russian & Chinese Spies in the UK and an Assassination in Canada https://audioboom.com/posts/8376393 4 Espresso Martini: Russian & Chinese Spies in the UK and an Assassination in Canada 8 4235 true full In today's Espresso Martini, Matt & Chris dive into the assassination of Sikh dissident Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. They look at fresh details about Chinese and Russian spies in the UK. They also explore an interview with Estonia’s outgoing military intelligence, who reflects on his dynamic career; and, after his liberation from a US prison, notorious arms dealer Viktor Bout embarks on a second act in local Russian politics.

Immediately following this show on Patreon, join Chris & Matt on Extra Shot as they delve into Russell Brand and his 'brand' of disinformation and conspiracy-mongering. They also examine Spy Planes tracking Russian activity in Ukraine, explore the work of the late War Studies Professor Christopher Coker, and critically analyze fresh rumours about the future of the Bond franchise.

— Extra Shot —

To get listen to Extra Shot, you will need to be a Patreon subscriber. Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Links to articles discussed in Espresso Martini

Alleged Indian plot to assassinate Sikh dissident in Canada
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/23/us/politics/canada-sikh-leader-killing-intelligence.html

Russian spies in a London court
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66923824

Chinese espionage threat to the UK
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2023/sep/09/parliamentary-researcher-who-spied-for-china-arrested

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-66779117

https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/china-is-spying-on-us-so-what/

Exit interview with Estonian intelligence chief
https://theins.press/en/politics/265092

Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout’s second act
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/10/world/europe/russia-bout-arms-dealing-politics.html

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Sat, 30 Sep 2023 07:30:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-09-29:/posts/8376393 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep3: Moscow X with former CIA analyst David McCloskey https://audioboom.com/posts/8373553 3 Moscow X with former CIA analyst David McCloskey 8 5027 false full On today’s episode, Matt welcomes back spy novelist and former CIA analyst David McCloskey. Best known for his critically acclaimed debut, Damascus Station, David returns with his latest thriller, Moscow X. Just as detailed, intricate, and vividly written as Damascus Station, Moscow X is set within the enigmatic layers of Putin’s Russia amidst the backdrop of the Ukraine War, where turmoil, intrigue, and betrayal intertwine in a riveting narrative that will keep you turning the pages. For any fans of the spy genre, this is not an interview you want to miss.

David’s website - https://www.davidmccloskeybooks.com/

Amazon - https://a.co/d/6UtkEYC 

Indiebound - https://bookshop.org/p/books/moscow-x-david-mccloskey/19670054?ean=9781324050759

Amazon Pre-Order for UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Moscow-X-Novel-David-McCloskey-ebook/dp/B0BWLJ4K63

Amazon Pre-Order for Australia - https://www.amazon.com.au/Moscow-Damascus-Station-David-McCloskey-ebook/dp/B0BS24PP9F/ref=sr_1_5?crid=26R3NQ02RWOFF&keywords=moscow+x&qid=1695673531&sprefix=moscow+x%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-5

Amazon Pre-Order for New Zealand - https://www.amazon.com.au/Moscow-Damascus-Station-David-McCloskey-ebook/dp/B0BS24PP9F/ref=sr_1_5?crid=29JF1MD20FY40&keywords=moscow+X&qid=1695673614&sprefix=moscow+x%2Caps%2C200&sr=8-5

Get access to our new Patreon-only show, "Extra Shot."
Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media.

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
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INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


]]> Mon, 25 Sep 2023 20:31:14 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-09-25:/posts/8373553 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep2: Extra Shot Teaser -- Espresso Martini & Extra Shot returns 30th September https://audioboom.com/posts/8372173 2 Extra Shot Teaser -- Espresso Martini & Extra Shot returns 30th September 8 3895 true full Espresso Martini & Extra returns a little later this month on Saturday, 30th September.

Today, we are airing a taster episode of Extra Shot, which was recorded in June. If you enjoy Extra Shot and wish to listen to future episodes, you must be a Patreon subscriber. Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


On this episode:

Chris & Matt look at the sinking of a boat in Italy with Mossad and Italian intelligence officers aboard. Was it foul play or an accident?

Dan Kaszeta joins us to discuss his thoughts on the recent poisonings of Kremlin critics in Berlin & Prague. He also gives us some good cheese recommendations.

The final story, Chris & Matt, look at whether Vladimir Putin was involved with Red Army Faction terrorists during his time in Germany in the 1980s.

Articles discussed in Extra Shot

Mossad boat party deaths in Italy
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/01/world/europe/spy-deaths-boat-italy.html?smid=tw-nytimes&smtyp=cur

Putin and his alleged connections to the Red Army Faction
https://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/were-vladimir-putin-s-years-in-germany-less-thrilling-than-the-stories-a-178de140-b799-472d-83bc-5e3b1adf65b2

With Dan, we discuss Kremlin Critics who believe they were victims of poisonings
https://www.agents.media/a-former-us-ambassador-two-journalists-writing-about-russia-and-an-activist-experienced-symptoms-of-poisoning-and-surveillance-two-cases-are-investigated-by-the-fbi/


Find out more about Dan Kaszeta's books here:
https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Kaszeta

You can connect with Dan on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/DanKaszeta

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 17:45:50 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-09-22:/posts/8372173 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S8 Ep1: Espresso Martini: Coups in Africa, Prigozhin’s death and a Russian pilot defects. https://audioboom.com/posts/8364657 1 Espresso Martini: Coups in Africa, Prigozhin’s death and a Russian pilot defects. 8 4452 false full On today’s Espresso Martini, Matt & Chris look at a coup in Niger and Gabon, Prigozhin’s death, his legacy haunting us from the grave and a Russian pilot involved in a dramatic defection to Ukraine with his Mil Mi-8 helicopter.

On "Extra Shot", immediately following this show on Patreon, Chris & Matt take a look at concerns of a NATO collapse if Donald Trump is re-elected as President, a mysterious submarine sinking off the coast of Taiwan, a new security agreement between China and Fiji and an update on the GCHQ stabbing story. Plus some spy entertainment news as legendary documentary filmmaker Erroll Morris has a new film about the life of spy author John Le Carré.

— Extra Shot —

To listen to "Extra Shot", you must be a Patreon subscriber. Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Links to articles discussed in Espresso Martini

Recent coups in Niger & Gabon

https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/what-is-going-on-with-the-coup-in-niger-and-why-it-matters

https://apnews.com/article/coup-niger-jihadis-extremist-violence-a7ae8b8f3954cdf838692b074f9cd4e8

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-66652015

https://theintercept.com/2023/07/27/niger-coup-leader-us-military/

Prigozhin’s death and Putin’s ambitions in Africa

https://theconversation.com/russia-in-africa-prigozhins-death-exposes-putins-real-motives-on-the-continent-212707

https://kyivindependent.com/prigozhins-death-latest-in-a-series-of-unsolved-murders-in-putins-russia-whats-next/

https://www.wired.co.uk/article/prigozhin-wagner-dead-news-disinformation

Russian pilot defects with Mil MI8 Helicopter
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/defected-russian-helicopter-pilot-details-his-flight-to-ukraine

Laugo Arms Alien pistol
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/super-gucci-alien-pistol-in-use-with-zelensky-security-detail


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures.” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Sat, 09 Sep 2023 08:22:28 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-09-09:/posts/8364657 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep41: Summer Special: Stalin’s Englishman with Andrew Lownie https://audioboom.com/posts/8357370 41 Summer Special: Stalin’s Englishman with Andrew Lownie 7 2387 false full On today's Summer Special, author and literary agent Andrew Lownie joins us to discuss his excellent book “Stalin’s Englishman: The Lives of Guy Burgess.”

You can find out more about the book here: https://www.andrewlownie.co.uk/authors/andrew-lownie/books/stalins-englishman-the-lives-of-guy-burgess

The podcast will return with a new "Espresso Martini" and "Extra Shot" on Saturday 9th September.

— Extra Shot —
To listen to "Extra Shot", you must be a Patreon subscriber. Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 09:57:17 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-08-27:/posts/8357370 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep40: Espresso Martini 15: Missing Chinese Foreign Minister, another Russian coup predicted and the dangers of AI. https://audioboom.com/posts/8342224 40 Espresso Martini 15: Missing Chinese Foreign Minister, another Russian coup predicted and the dangers of AI. 7 4170 true full On today’s Espresso Martini and season seven finale, Matt & Chris look at the puzzlingly short tenure of the Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang; they unpack some hot gossip surrounding last month’s Wagner mutiny and discuss updates on the war in Ukraine, both at sea and on land. In the last story, they look at AI's potential threat in the 2024 US Elections and the 2025 UK general election.

On Extra Shot, immediately following this show on Patreon, Matt & Chris ask Is it time to most expeditiously take a hammer to your smart watch? They also discuss friend of the pod Dan Kaszeta’s legal victory over Downing Street, have a spoiler-free-ish chat about Christopher Nolan’s new Oppenheimer biopic, and then indulge in some flagrantly irresponsible speculation about the next Bond movie.

— Extra Shot —
To listen to Extra Shot, you must be a Patreon subscriber.
Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


We want to wish listeners a happy Summer and hope you have a great time. The podcast will return on Saturday, 9th September, unless world events force our hand.


Links to articles discussed in Espresso Martini

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang removed from post after only 7 months
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/07/25/china-foreign-minister-qin-gang/

Russia’s Spies Say Putin Faces More Coups
https://theins.ru/en/politics/263596

US Navy Backs Away From Ukraine’s Proposal To Protect Grain In NATO Waters
https://gcaptain.com/us-navy-backs-away-from-ukraines-proposal-to-protect-grain-ships-nato-waters/

West must focus on preparing Ukraine’s troops – or we will all pay the price
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/23/west-must-focus-on-preparing-ukraines-troops-or-we-will-all-pay-the-price

Intelligence nominee warns generative AI poses threat to 2024 elections
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/07/20/intelligence-chief-nominee-warns-of-threats-from-ai-to-2024-elections-00107375


—Alphabet Boys Podcast —

Alphabet Boys reveals the secret investigations of the FBI, DEA, ATF, and other alphabet agencies. Hosted by journalist Trevor Aaronson, Alphabet Boys exposes secret undercover recordings that the government never wanted the public to hear. We explore dangerous and absurd cases to ask this question: Are America’s top cops catching criminals or creating them?

Find out more here: https://link.chtbl.com/secretsandspies

—Surfshark offer—
Get an exclusive Surfshark deal! Enter promo code SECRETS for an extra 3 months free at https://surfshark.deals/SECRETS



Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Support Secrets and Spies:
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media. 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
THREADS: https://www.threads.net/@secretsandspies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies



Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Sat, 29 Jul 2023 07:55:07 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-07-29:/posts/8342224 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep39: Espresso Martini: Cluster Bombs, Ukraine NATO membership and Prigozhin’s meeting with Putin https://audioboom.com/posts/8334434 39 Espresso Martini: Cluster Bombs, Ukraine NATO membership and Prigozhin’s meeting with Putin 7 3521 true full On this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt look at cluster munitions being supplied to Ukraine, Putin & Prigozhin’s post-mutiny meeting, and Ukraine’s future membership with NATO.

On “Extra Shot” that follows this show on Patreon, we will be looking at Russian spies in Switzerland, a MOSSAD operation in Iran, CIA Director William Burns's keynote speech at the Ditchley Foundation and Vladimir Putin’s secret train.

— Extra Shot —
To get listen to Extra Shot you will need to be a Patreon subscriber. Go to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page and subscribe there to get access: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Links to articles discussed in Espresso Martini

Giving Ukraine Cluster Munitions is Necessary, Legal and Morally Justified
By Dr Jack Watling and Professor Justin Bronk from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)
https://rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/giving-ukraine-cluster-munitions-necessary-legal-and-morally-justified

Nato summit: Allies refuse to give Ukraine a timeframe on joining
BBC Reporting
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-66167616

Putin and Prigozhin held a meeting in June, their first known contact since the
mutiny.
By Paul Sonne New York Times
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2023/07/10/world/russia-ukraine-news/putin-prigozhin-meeting?smid=url-share

CIA's Burns: armed mutiny shows damage Putin has done to Russia
By Guy Falconbridge for Yahoo News
https://news.yahoo.com/cias-burns-armed-mutiny-shows-154432408.html?guccounter=1


—Alphabet Boys Podcast —

Alphabet Boys reveals the secret investigations of the FBI, DEA, ATF, and other alphabet agencies. Hosted by journalist Trevor Aaronson, Alphabet Boys exposes secret undercover recordings that the government never wanted the public to hear. We explore dangerous and absurd cases to ask this question: Are America’s top cops catching criminals or creating them?

Find out more here: https://link.chtbl.com/secretsandspies

—Surfshark offer—
Get an exclusive Surfshark deal! Enter promo code SECRETS for an extra 3 months free at https://surfshark.deals/SECRETS


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Thu, 13 Jul 2023 22:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-07-13:/posts/8334434 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep38: Soon Dies the Day with Stephen England https://audioboom.com/posts/8333307 38 Soon Dies the Day with Stephen England 7 3624 true full On today’s episode, Matt welcomes back his friend and fellow indie spy writer, Stephen England, to discuss his new novel, “Soon Dies the Day.” They take a deep-dive into the book's development and unpack some of its more timely geopolitics themes, including the German far-right and infighting in Russian security services. If you’re a fan of realistic, thoroughly researched spy thrillers, this is a conversation for you.

Stephen’s website: https://www.stephenenglandbooks.com

Get Soon Dies the Day on Amazon: https://a.co/d/1p1O8AO

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/


--- Alphabet Boys Podcast ---

Alphabet Boys reveals the secret investigations of the FBI, DEA, ATF, and other alphabet agencies. Hosted by journalist Trevor Aaronson, Alphabet Boys exposes secret undercover recordings that the government never wanted the public to hear. We explore dangerous and absurd cases to ask this question: Are America’s top cops catching criminals or creating them?

Find out more here: https://link.chtbl.com/secretsandspies

--- Extra Shot ---

Don't miss out on our new show, "Extra Shot," available exclusively on the Secrets & Spies Patreon page. Subscribe now to access this thrilling content and delve deeper into the world of espionage and intrigue. www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

---Connect with us on social media ---

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 17:12:30 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-07-11:/posts/8333307 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep37: Operation Chrysler and a Murder Behind Enemy Lines in World War II with Pate McMichael https://audioboom.com/posts/8326090 37 Operation Chrysler and a Murder Behind Enemy Lines in World War II with Pate McMichael 7 5065 false full On today’s episode, Matt talks with Pate McMichael, a journalist and professor at the University of Arizona, about his book, "Operation Chrysler: Stolen Valor Behind Enemy Lines in World War II”. They explore the gripping true story of Operation Chrysler, an OSS mission deep inside Nazi-occupied Italy, and the decades-long investigation into the murder of its commanding officer, Major William Holohan. Through meticulous research and riveting storytelling, Pate’s book unravels layers of deception, intrigue, espionage, and betrayal that will leave you questioning the very nature of valor and honor in times of war.

Get a copy of Operation Chrysler here: https://www.amazon.com/Operation-Chrysler-Stolen-Behind-During/dp/B086G11XSK.

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/


Additionally, don't miss out on our new show, "Extra Shot," available exclusively on the Secrets & Spies Patreon page. Subscribe now to gain access to this thrilling content and delve deeper into the world of espionage and intrigue. www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Sat, 01 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-06-30:/posts/8326090 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep36: Espresso Martini: Prigozhin vs Putin and Wagners mutinous weekend in Russia https://audioboom.com/posts/8323995 36 Espresso Martini: Prigozhin vs Putin and Wagners mutinous weekend in Russia 7 4004 true full On this special episode of Espresso (Vodka) Martini, join Chris, and Matt as they delve into the recent dramatic events in Russia. Like the rest of the world, they were taken aback when Yevgeny Prigozhin and his Wagner mercenaries orchestrated an armed convoy headed towards Moscow, seemingly attempting a coup. In this episode, Chris & Matt strive to shed light on what is known so far.

If you enjoyed this podcast please support us by becoming a Patreon subscriber and get access to our exclusive show “Extra Shot”.  You can subscribe to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page here: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Links to articles discussed in Espresso Martini

“Band of Brothers: The Wagner Group and the Russian State” by Centre of Strategic Studies
https://www.csis.org/blogs/post-soviet-post/band-brothers-wagner-group-and-russian-state

Professor Phillips O’Brien: “Substack weekend update 34”
https://phillipspobrien.substack.com/p/weekend-update-34?sd=pf

Putin Caught In His Own Trap By Anne Applebaum for The Atlantic
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/06/putin-caught-in-his-own-trap/674524/


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Mon, 26 Jun 2023 20:08:40 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-06-26:/posts/8323995 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep35: Espresso Martini: Trump Classified Docs Debacle and a Chinese Spy Base In Cuba https://audioboom.com/posts/8322887 35 Espresso Martini: Trump Classified Docs Debacle and a Chinese Spy Base In Cuba 7 3793 true full On this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt look at Former President Trump being accused of illegally retaining classified documents, new evidence suggesting Russian forces are responsible for destroying the Kakhvoka dam, and information on a Chinese spy base in Cuba.

On Extra Shot, they look at the German intelligence service seeing more aggressive Russian intelligence efforts, Russian assassins targeting a defector in Miami, and a Cold War traitor deep in the Australian intelligence services finally being unmasked.

You can access “Extra Shot” by subscribing to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page here: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Surfshark offer
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Links to articles discussed in Espresso Martini & Extra Shot:

What Trump indictment tells us about US security risks
By Gordon Corera
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-65878149

Chinese Nationals at Mar-a-Lago Raise Questions About Classified Documents
By Ewan Palmer
https://www.newsweek.com/maralago-classified-documents-chinese-nationals-trump-1805890

Why the Evidence Suggests Russia Blew Up the Kakhovka Dam
New York Times
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/06/16/world/europe/ukraine-kakhovka-dam-collapse.html

China to Build Station That Could Spy on U.S from Cuba, Officials Say
By Karoun Demirjian and Edward Wong (Dated 8th June)
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/08/us/politics/china-spy-cuba-station.html

Germany sees 'more aggressive' Russian spy activity
By Ben Knight for DW Online
https://www.dw.com/en/germany-sees-more-aggressive-russian-spy-activity/a-65970734

Russia Sought to Kill Defector in Florida
By Ronen Bergman, Adam Goldman and Julian E. Barnes
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/19/us/politics/russia-spy-assassination.html

The Traitor
By Sally Neighbour and Margot O’Neill for ABC news Australia
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-19/russia-spy-mole-in-asio-sold-cold-war-intelligence-four-corners/102469652


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Support Secrets and Spies:
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Fri, 23 Jun 2023 22:22:13 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-06-23:/posts/8322887 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep34: Espresso Martini: A Farewell to Robert Hanssen & No 10 Blacklisting with Dan Kaszeta https://audioboom.com/posts/8315450 34 Espresso Martini: A Farewell to Robert Hanssen & No 10 Blacklisting with Dan Kaszeta 7 3401 false full
On this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt look at the death of the Russian spy who was deep in the FBI, Robert Hanssen.

Later in the episode, they are joined by Chemical, Biological and Radiological expert Dan Kaszeta who the UK Government Blacklisting has blacklisted for being critical of the government on Twitter. Dan discusses what that experience has been like and what he has since discovered.

And lastly, they look at the destruction of the Kakhovka dam and discuss who may be responsible.

On Extra Shot (Patreon Exclusive show)
Chris & Matt look at the sinking of a boat in Italy with Mossad and Italian intelligence officers aboard. Was it foul play or an accident?

Dan joins us to discuss his thoughts on the recent poisonings of Kremlin critics in Berlin & Prague. He also gives us some good cheese recommendations.

The final story Chris & Matt look at whether Vladimir Putin was involved with Red Army Faction terrorists during his time in Germany in the 1980s.

You can access “Extra Shot” by subscribing to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page here: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Surfshark offer

Get an exclusive Surfshark deal! Enter promo code SECRETS for an extra 3 months free at https://surfshark.deals/SECRETS


Links to articles discussed in Espresso Martini

Robert Hanssen's death
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-65820220

Kakhovka dam
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2023/06/06/world/russia-ukraine-news

Articles discussed in Extra Shot

Mossad boat party deaths in Italy
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/01/world/europe/spy-deaths-boat-italy.html?smid=tw-nytimes&smtyp=cur

Putin and his alleged connections to the Red Army Faction
https://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/were-vladimir-putin-s-years-in-germany-less-thrilling-than-the-stories-a-178de140-b799-472d-83bc-5e3b1adf65b2

With Dan, we discuss

Blacklisted by the UK government
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-65675247

Kremlin Critics believe they were victims of poisonings
https://www.agents.media/a-former-us-ambassador-two-journalists-writing-about-russia-and-an-activist-experienced-symptoms-of-poisoning-and-surveillance-two-cases-are-investigated-by-the-fbi/


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/


Support Secrets and Spies:
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Sat, 10 Jun 2023 07:28:45 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-06-10:/posts/8315450 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep33: The Liquid Bomb Plot with Aki J. Peritz. https://audioboom.com/posts/8311182 33 The Liquid Bomb Plot with Aki J. Peritz. 7 4516 false full Today, Chris is joined by Aki J. Peritz, a former CIA officer and author. They dive into the gripping story of the liquid bomb plot and the monumental counterterrorism investigation launched to thwart it. Aki's captivating book, "Disruption," provides an insider's perspective on the plot and sheds light on how it was successfully foiled. Join them as they uncover the secrets behind this high-stakes operation and unravel the reasons behind the stringent restrictions on carrying liquids in hand luggage aboard planes.

Get a copy of “Disruption” here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/disruption-inside-the-largest-counterterrorism-investigation-in-history-aki-j-peritz/16580363?ean=9781640123809

Additionally, don't miss out on our new show, "Extra Shot," available exclusively on the Secrets & Spies Patreon page. Subscribe now to delve deeper into espionage and intrigue. www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

For more information about the Secrets & Spies, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media. 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Fri, 02 Jun 2023 23:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-06-02:/posts/8311182 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep32: Espresso Martini Episode Ten https://audioboom.com/posts/8307958 32 Espresso Martini Episode Ten 7 3341 false full On this episode of Espresso Martini Chris and Matt take a look at Bakhmut means for Putin and Russia, the UK Government Blacklisting chemical weapons export Dan Kaszeta for being critical of the government on Twitter. They also take another look at the Turkish Presidential elections and accusations of Russian interference.

Also the new Patreon exclusive show “Extra Shot” launches. You can access it by subscribing to the Secrets & Spies Patreon page here: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Links to articles discussed: 

Putin & Bakhmut
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2023/05/23/putin-is-toast-with-or-without-bakhmut/

Dan Kaszeta blacklisted by UK Gov
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-65675247

Turkey
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/may/12/turkish-opposition-accuses-russia-of-election-interference-days-before-vote 


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures.” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 


Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Fri, 26 May 2023 22:14:57 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-05-26:/posts/8307958 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies New Patreon exclusive show "Extra Shot" launching tomorrow https://audioboom.com/posts/8307804 85 false full We are launching an extra show that will be a Patreon exclusive and it will follow immediately after each Espresso Martini. The new show is called “Extra Shot” and it will give us an opportunity to talk about stories we didn’t cover but we really wanted to. Also, we may talk about any stories or bits of history that are on our mind at the moment and in time we plan to get on the odd guest and hopefully even some listeners. So to get access to Extra Shot you will need to go to 
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

You will need to pick a subscription level, and depending on which level you select, you will get a complimentary Secrets & Spies coffee cup or set of coasters. 

So, we hope that sounds good value to you, you will be directly supporting this podcast, and if it becomes popular, we will be open to expanding and making more content exclusively for you.

So to get access to Extra Shot you will need to go to 
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies ]]> Fri, 26 May 2023 16:52:53 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-05-26:/posts/8307804 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep31: Espresso Martini Episode Nine https://audioboom.com/posts/8300354 31 Espresso Martini Episode Nine 7 4843 false full On this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris, Matt and Oliver the cat discuss a little more Jack Teixeira the man arrested over Pentagon files leak. Then we will look at a former FBI Special Agent arrested for his role in the January 6th attack. Then we look at an interesting spy story involving a retired Iranian government member accused of being a spy for MI6. In the last section of the show, we discuss some of the new information on the Nord Stream pipeline attack and look ahead at the Presidential elections in Turkey this weekend.

Links to articles discussed:

War, Weapons and Conspiracy Theories: Inside Airman Teixeira’s Online World
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/06/us/politics/jack-teixeira-leaks-discord-messages.html

Ex-FBI agent who feds say urged Jan. 6, rioters to kill police worked terrorism task force
https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/justice-department/ex-fbi-agent-feds-say-urged-jan-6-rioters-kill-police-worked-terrorism-rcna82775

Iranian Insider and British Spy: How a Double Life Ended on the Gallows
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/01/world/middleeast/british-spy-execution-iran.html

Nord Stream: Report puts Russian Navy ships near the pipeline blast site
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-65461401

Yes, Erdogan’s Rule Might Actually End This Weekend
https://foreignpolicy.com/2023/05/09/turkey-election-erdogan-kilicdaroglu-akp-nation-alliance/

Cold Front Podcast mentioned by Chris about the new Nord Stream information:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-6-the-explosion-sites/id1683166185?i=1000611529149


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 


Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Sat, 13 May 2023 08:08:17 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-05-13:/posts/8300354 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep30: Espresso Martini Episode Eight https://audioboom.com/posts/8285915 30 Espresso Martini Episode Eight 7 4879 false full On this episode of Espresso Martini we discuss the recent Pentagon leaks, a Russian pro-war blogger who is not actually Russian, business men taking money from Chinese spies and Spy Ships off the coast of Scotland.

Links to articles discussed:

Who is Jack Teixeira, the man arrested over Pentagon files leak?
By Peter Beaumont reporting for The Guardian Newspaper
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/apr/13/who-is-jack-teixeira-the-man-arrested-over-pentagon-files-leak

What the leaked Pentagon documents reveal - key takeaways
By Paul Adams, Jean Mackenzie and Antoinette Radford reporting for the BBC
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-65238951

Pentagon Leaks: Russian Su-27 Nearly Shot Down British Rivet Joint Last Year
By David Cenciotti reporting for The Aviationist
https://theaviationist.com/2023/04/11/russian-su-27-nearly-shot-down-british-rivet-joint-last-year/

Social-Media Account Overseen by Former Navy Noncommissioned Officer Helped Spread Secrets
By Yaroslav Trofimov for the Wall Street Journal
https://www.wsj.com/articles/social-media-account-overseen-by-former-navy-noncommissioned-officer-helped-spread-secrets-a4b5643b

Australian businessman allegedly given envelopes of cash from Chinese spies for information
By Australian Associated Press for the Guardian Newspaper
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/apr/17/australia-businessman-alexander-csergo-allegedly-given-envelopes-of-cash-from-chinese-spies-for-information

Ukraine war: The Russian ships accused of North Sea sabotage
By Gordon Corera for the BBC
Ukraine war: The Russian ships accused of North Sea sabotage - BBC News

Moray Firth: Russian spy ship 'probed wind farm for sabotage plans'
By Jody Harrison for the Herald of Scotland
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/homenews/23467879.moray-firth-russian-spy-ship-probed-windfarm-sabotage-plans/

Link to interview with Todd Leventhal about Cold War “Active Measures” https://pod.fo/e/14fa0


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Connect with us on social media

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Support Secrets and Spies:
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Sat, 22 Apr 2023 08:26:24 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-04-22:/posts/8285915 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep29: Challenges researching Israeli intelligence history with Eldad Ben Aharon https://audioboom.com/posts/8282045 29 Challenges researching Israeli intelligence history with Eldad Ben Aharon 7 2696 false full On todays podcast Chris is joined by Eldad Ben Aharon who is a researcher of Israeli intelligence and geopolitical history. We discuss the challenges of researching intelligence history in Israel and the importance of first person interviews with intelligence community members.

You can connect with Eldad on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/EldadBenAharon

You can read the following papers by Eldad via the links below

You can read more from Eldad via his website here: https://hsfk.academia.edu/EldadBenAharon


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

]]> Sat, 15 Apr 2023 20:11:15 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-04-15:/posts/8282045 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep28: How to Write a Spy Thriller with Stephen England https://audioboom.com/posts/8281761 28 How to Write a Spy Thriller with Stephen England 7 4945 false full On this episode, Matt sits down with his friend and fellow indie spy writer Stephen England. They talk about Stephen's decade-long career as a novelist, the history and development of his 'Shadow Warriors' series, their inspirations, and the ethics of writing in the spy genre

For more information about Stephen and his books, check out his Amazon page: shorturl.at/elFI0

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures” 
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Fri, 14 Apr 2023 22:32:20 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-04-14:/posts/8281761 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep27: Espresso Martini Episode Seven https://audioboom.com/posts/8277614 27 Espresso Martini Episode Seven 7 5047 false full On this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris & Matt take a look at President Xi’s trip to China, Chinese espionage against the west and the revelations of a recent Russian defector who paints a less than flattering picture of President Putin and his mental state.


Links to articles discussed on this episode

“China portrays Xi’s Russia trip as bid for leadership of non-Western world” – by Lily Kuo for the Washington Post
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/03/21/china-xi-russia-world-leadership/

“China waging decades-long spy war” by Calder Walton for Foreign Policy
https://foreignpolicy.com/2023/03/28/china-has-been-waging-a-decades-long-all-out-spy-war/

“Russian defector sheds light on Putin paranoia and his secret train network” by Andrew Roth and Pjotr Sauer for The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/apr/05/russian-defector-sheds-light-on-putin-paranoia-including-secret-train

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Connect with us on social media
TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/secretsandspies/
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Support Secrets and Spies:
 

Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/

Check out Chris’s short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER”, now available on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
Check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network.
Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 
]]> Sat, 08 Apr 2023 07:43:06 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-04-08:/posts/8277614 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Podcast update, Two Espresso Martinis a month and no podcast this week https://audioboom.com/posts/8273178 240 false full Hi everyone, we just wanted to share a quick update about the podcast. We will now be producing two Espresso Martinis a month. Chris & Matt will also be splitting interviews between them. So exciting times ahead for the show!

We will have an "Ask us anything" section on the next Espresso Martini. Email or Tweet at us your questions before 6th April. 

You can email us here: secretsandspiespodcast&gmail.com and Tweet at us here:  www.twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies


Support Secrets and Spies: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Fri, 31 Mar 2023 00:12:45 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-03-31:/posts/8273178 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep26: Ukraine War First Anniversary with Matthew Orr from RANE https://audioboom.com/posts/8265885 26 Ukraine War First Anniversary with Matthew Orr from RANE 7 3474 false full We are joined by Matthew Orr, a Eurasian analyst at RANE, Risk Assistance Network & Exchange in this episode.

We discuss the first anniversary of Russia’s war on Ukraine and what to expect over the next few months.

You can find out more about RANE here: https://www.ranenetwork.com/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Support Secrets and Spies
 
Connect with us on social media

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 
]]> Fri, 17 Mar 2023 17:30:39 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-03-17:/posts/8265885 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep25: Nord Stream attack with Shane Harris https://audioboom.com/posts/8262901 25 Nord Stream attack with Shane Harris 7 2326 false full Matt Fulton interviews Shane Harris from the Washington Post on today's podcast. Shane has written about intelligence, security and foreign policy for over two decades. He is a staff writer with The Washington Post, covering U.S. intelligence agencies and national security. Shane takes us through his research on the Nord Stream attack and how it is not as straightforward as previously believed.

These are Shane’s articles discussed in the episode:

No conclusive evidence Russia is behind Nord Stream attack
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2022/12/21/russia-nord-stream-explosions/

Intelligence Suggests Pro-Ukrainian Group Sabotaged Pipelines, U.S. Officials Say
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/07/us/politics/nord-stream-pipeline-sabotage-ukraine.html

Intelligence officials suspect Ukraine partisans behind Nord Stream bombings, rattling Kyiv’s allies
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2023/03/07/intelligence-officials-suspect-ukraine-partisans-behind-nord-stream-bombings-rattling-kyivs-allies/


You can find out more about Shane Harris and his work on the Washington Post’s website: https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/shane-harris/.

You can connect with Shane’s via his Twitter page: https://twitter.com/shaneharris.

Find out more about Matt Fulton and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/


Support Secrets and Spies:
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Mon, 13 Mar 2023 13:50:19 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-03-13:/posts/8262901 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep24: Espresso Martini Episode Six https://audioboom.com/posts/8261812 24 Espresso Martini Episode Six 7 4778 false full On this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris & Matt look at President Joe Biden’s historic trip to Ukraine, leaked documents showing how Russia plans to take over Belarus, and CIA director William Burns's secret trip to Libya and more!

Links to articles discussed in this episode

“Biden’s Surreal and Secretive Journey Into a War Zone”
By Peter Baker and Michael D. Shear for the New York Times
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/20/us/politics/biden-kyiv-ukraine.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

“Revealed: Leaked document shows how Russia plans to take over Belarus”
By Michael Weiss and Holger Roonemaa for Yahoo News
https://news.yahoo.com/russia-belarus-strategy-document-230035184.html?soc_src=social-sh&soc_trk=ma

“Russian state news accidentally publishes article saying Russia has defeated Ukraine and restored its 'historical borders”
By Yelena Dzhanova for Yahoo News & Business Insider
https://www.yahoo.com/news/russian-state-news-accidentally-publishes-181749627.html

“LIBYA’S FRAGILE DEADLOCK”
By JALEL HARCHAOUI for War on the Rocks
https://warontherocks.com/2023/03/libyas-fragile-deadlock/

“Hive of spies’ trying to steal sensitive information removed from Australia, Asio chief says” by Daniel Hurst Foreign affairs and defence correspondent The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/21/hive-of-spies-trying-to-steal-sensitive-information-removed-from-australia-asio-chief-says

“The neo-Nazi movement behind the plot to blackout Baltimore”
By Brenna Smith for Baltimore Banner
https://www.thebaltimorebanner.com/community/local-news/power-grid-plot-neo-nazi-R3R54GDYCBECDOOY3HA4NHVNII/

“Borderless Vigilantism: The Nativist US Militias Entering Mexico”
By Avery Schmitz for Bellingcat
https://www.bellingcat.com/news/2023/02/21/borderless-vigilantism-the-nativist-us-militias-entering-mexico/


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Support Secrets and Spies
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Fri, 10 Mar 2023 21:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-03-10:/posts/8261812 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep23: Russia's war on Ukraine with John Sweeney https://audioboom.com/posts/8251634 23 Russia's war on Ukraine with John Sweeney 7 3108 true full On today's podcast, I am joined by journalist John Sweeney, the author of “Killer in the Kremlin”. John joins me from Kyiv, and we reflect on the first anniversary of Russia’s war against Ukraine.

You can get a copy of “Killer in the Kremlin” and find out more about John and his work here: https://www.johnsweeney.co.uk/

You can support his freelance work in Ukraine here: https://www.patreon.com/JohnSweeneyRoar

You can follow John on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/johnsweeneyroar

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
SPOUTIBLE   https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Wed, 22 Feb 2023 15:00:36 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-02-22:/posts/8251634 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep22: Ukraine War One Year On with Dr. Taras Kuzio https://audioboom.com/posts/8249448 22 Ukraine War One Year On with Dr. Taras Kuzio 7 4684 false full On today podcast I am joined by Dr Taras Kuzio and we reflect on the first anniversary of Russia’s war against Ukraine and we discuss what to expect in the months ahead. 

You can also visit Dr Kuzio’s website here:
http://www.betweeneuropeandrussia.com/

You can connect with Dr.Kuzio on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/TarasKuzio


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
 SPOUTIBLE https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ ]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2023 23:18:14 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-02-17:/posts/8249448 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep21: NFL Espionage with Kevin Bryant https://audioboom.com/posts/8245655 21 NFL Espionage with Kevin Bryant 7 3498 false full On todays Super Bowl Special, we are joined by author Kevin Bryant to discuss his book “Spies on the sidelines” which looks at espionage within the NFL. 

Kevin’s book “Spies on the Sidelines” is available here: https://www.spiesonthesidelines.com/ 

Connect with Kevin via social media:

Facebook: @kevinbryant.author 
Instagram: @kevinbryant.author 
Twitter: @kevbryantauthor 
Linkedin: @kevinbryantauthor


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 10 Feb 2023 23:33:03 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-02-10:/posts/8245655 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep20: Espresso Martini Episode Five https://audioboom.com/posts/8245304 20 Espresso Martini Episode Five 7 3744 false full On today's episode of Espresso Martini, Chris & Matt take a look at the Chinese “weather balloon” (Spy Balloon), Israel's drone strike on an Iranian missile facility and a Russian spy in the ranks of the BND, Germany’s foreign intelligence service

Topics covered

Chinese Spy Balloon & Chinese electronic espionage in the west
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/chinas-spy-balloon-over-montana-is-part-of-a-larger-more-troubling-pattern

https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/our-first-look-chinese-spy-balloon-debris-being-recovered

https://inews.co.uk/news/hidden-chinese-tracking-device-government-car-national-security-2070152

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/dec/22/tiktok-bytedance-workers-fired-data-access-journalists

Iran Drone strike
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/29/world/middleeast/iran-drone-strike-israel.html

Russian Spy in the BND
German BND officer caught spying for Russia named
https://www.politico.eu/article/russia-spy-arrest-germany-foreign-intelligence-agency-treason/

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11712829/Youth-football-coach-unmasked-Putin-spy-passed-Germanys-secrets-Moscow.html

https://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/hackers-spies-and-contract-killers-how-putin-s-agents-are-infiltrating-germany-a-2cc6c24c-16ac-43d4-97fa-103081414acc


Other Stories of note:

Suspected Neo Nazi Attacks on US power-grids
https://www.nationalreview.com/the-morning-jolt/whos-attacking-our-power-grid/

Russia paying EU MPs
https://www.occrp.org/en/investigations/kremlin-linked-group-arranged-payments-to-european-politicians-to-support-russias-annexation-of-crimea

Active duty Marines with intelligence roles arrested for connection to Jan 6th
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/01/19/3-active-duty-marines-who-work-intelligence-arrested-alleged-participation-jan-6-riot.html



Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures”
https://mattfulton.net/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird). You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 10 Feb 2023 12:27:30 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-02-10:/posts/8245304 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep19: The Jabbari Lincoln Files with Yaya J. Fanusie https://audioboom.com/posts/8241750 19 The Jabbari Lincoln Files with Yaya J. Fanusie 7 4911 false full On today's podcast, I am joined by former CIA analyst Yaya J Fanusie.

Yaya was my third guest on the podcast back in 2016, and he returns today to tell us about his exciting new podcast called “The Jabbari Lincoln Files”.

“The Jabarri Lincoln Files” is a CIA-based espionage thriller that partly takes a look at the world of Financial intelligence.
Yaya and I talk about the real-world inspiration for his podcast, and we also discuss his writing process and artistic influences.

You can listen to “The Jabarri Lincoln Files” here: https://podfollow.com/the-jabbari-lincoln-files

And you can read The Jabbari Lincoln blog here: https://www.jabbarilincoln.com

The podcast is available via the following links:
On Apple Podcasts: (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jabbari-lincoln-files/id1663688674)
On Amazon/Audible: (https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Jabbari-Lincoln-Files-Podcast/B0BQWH3Q1S?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp),
On Google Podcasts:(https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5saWJzeW4uY29tLzQ1MjQ1NC9yc3M)
On Spotify: (https://open.spotify.com/show/2zqiUvQFEUkeOCzAJtZDdz?si=1accb9d9d9db4f10).
On the Libsyn Podcast Site: (https://sites.libsyn.com/452454)


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network.

Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/

Music

Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) provides music on this podcast. You can check out his work here:
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:

- [ ] Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

- [ ] Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

- [ ] You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

- [ ] Connect with us on social media

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 


Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 


]]> Sat, 04 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-02-03:/posts/8241750 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Espresso Martini to return on Saturday 11th Feb https://audioboom.com/posts/8240579 112 false full Hi everyone, I just wanted to let you know this month's Espresso Martini has been delayed by a week. It will return on Saturday 11th Feb.

See you then.]]> Thu, 02 Feb 2023 10:11:06 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-02-02:/posts/8240579 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep18: Ukraine update with Malcolm Nance https://audioboom.com/posts/8239517 18 Ukraine update with Malcolm Nance 7 3391 false full Malcolm Nance joins us on our first special podcast looking at Ukraine as we get close to the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion.

Malcolm visited Ukraine before the war, joined the Ukrainian army and fought on the front line against Russian forces.

Malcolm is an American author and media commentator on terrorism, intelligence, insurgency, and torture. He is a former United States Navy senior chief petty officer specializing in naval cryptology. He is the author of several books, including the New York Times bestseller “The Plot to Hack America” and his latest book “They Want To Kill Americans”.

“They Want To Kill Americans”
You can purchase it here: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250279002/theywanttokillamericans

TAPSTRI
Malcolm mentions TAPSTRI, in which you can directly donate to the international legion fighting in Ukraine here:
https://tapstri.org/

Malcolm’s Substack
Subscribe here: https://malcolmnance.substack.com/

Malcolm’s Twitter
https://twitter.com/MalcolmNance



Music 
Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) provides music on this podcast.
You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:

- [ ] Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

- [ ] Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

- [ ] You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

- [ ] Connect with us on social media

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. 

Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/

]]> Tue, 31 Jan 2023 22:38:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-01-31:/posts/8239517 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep17: 2023 global forecast with Sam Lichtenstein from RANE https://audioboom.com/posts/8237878 17 2023 global forecast with Sam Lichtenstein from RANE 7 2643 false full On today's podcast, I am joined by Sam Lichtenstein.  Sam is a Director of Analysis at RANE, which stands for Risk Assistance Network and Exchange. 

In this episode, we will look at world events for the year ahead with RANE’s annual Global forecast for 2023.

2023 looks to be another challenging year, and I think you will want to check it out. It’s a deep episode, so pour yourself your favourite drink, sit back, and I hope you find it informative.


To find out more about RANE and its annual global forecast, please visit their website here:
https://www.ranenetwork.com/


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. 

Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/

Music 

Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) provides music on this podcast. You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:


- [ ] Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

- [ ] Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

- [ ] You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

- [ ] Connect with us on social media

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 


Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 



]]> Fri, 27 Jan 2023 21:17:10 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-01-27:/posts/8237878 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep16: Berlin, Capital of Spies with Bernd von Koska https://audioboom.com/posts/8233546 16 Berlin, Capital of Spies with Bernd von Koska 7 3821 false full On today's podcast, I am joined by Bernd von Koska, who is the curator of the Allied Museum in Berlin and co-author of the excellent book Capital of Spies. In this episode, we discuss Capital of Spies which takes a look at the history of Cold War Berlin. 

You can get a copy of Capital of Spies here: https://www.casematepublishing.co.uk/capital-of-spies.html

And you can find out more about the Allied Museum here: https://www.alliiertenmuseum.de/en/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 




Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz

]]> Fri, 20 Jan 2023 17:48:50 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-01-20:/posts/8233546 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep15: Espresso Martini: Episode Four https://audioboom.com/posts/8225622 15 Espresso Martini: Episode Four 7 3931 false full Happy New Year everyone and welcome to Espresso Martini episode Four, which is our first podcast of 2023.

On todays episode of Espresso Martini, Chris & Matt take a look at a coup plot in Germany that was discovered by the German authorities and they also take a look at the rising Covid numbers in China and the official denials coming from the ruling Communist Party.

Related articles to the discussion:

German Coup Plot:

Germany arrests 25 accused of plotting coup
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-63885028

The Motley Crew that Wanted to Topple the German Government
https://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/prince-putsch-and-his-gang-the-motley-crew-that-wanted-to-topple-the-german-government-a-07a32d7c-96e6-4b61-a282-9e9ab2ffa288

Is a far-right coup possible in Germany?
https://www.dw.com/en/is-a-far-right-coup-possible-in-germany/a-64041643


Rise of Covid in China:

China Covid: experts estimate 9,000 deaths a day as US says it may sample wastewater from planes
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/dec/30/china-covid-experts-estimate-9000-deaths-a-day-as-us-says-it-may-sample-wastewater-from-planes

How deadly will China’s covid surge get? Answers to that and more.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/science/2022/12/31/china-covid-virus-evolution/

China's COVID vaccines: Do the jabs do the job?
https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2022/12/30/1143696652/chinas-covid-vaccines-do-the-jabs-do-the-job


Other Stories of note:

Russian influencers at work in Germany
https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/ukraine-crisis-germany-influencers

Clergymen or spies - Russian Orthodox churches used for espionage
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/31/world/europe/orthodox-church-ukraine-russia.html

Suspected Neo Nazi Attacks on US power-grids
https://www.nationalreview.com/the-morning-jolt/whos-attacking-our-power-grid/


Writing aids mentioned by Chris & Matt

Scrivener
https://www.literatureandlatte.com/

Trello
https://trello.com/


Find out more about Matt and his book “Active Measures.” 
https://mattfulton.net/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 06 Jan 2023 23:32:37 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2023-01-06:/posts/8225622 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep14: Espresso Martini: Episode Three https://audioboom.com/posts/8206877 14 Espresso Martini: Episode Three 7 4732 false full On this episode of Espresso Martini, Chris and Matt take a look at the key stories from November in the world of espionage, geopolitics and intrigue. 

They discuss the Crimean Bridge Attack, infighting among Putin’s allies, a Russian GRU officer who defected to Estonia, a spy trial at the Old Bailey and the hit Star Wars espionage series Andor.

Links to articles discussed are below

How Ukraine blew up the bridge - By James Glanz and Marco Hernandez – New York Times
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/11/17/world/europe/crimea-bridge-collapse.html

The BBC on October 9th published an article By Paul Adamstitled “Crimean Bridge; Who or what caused the explosion” https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-63192757

Civil War among Putin Allies – Isabel Van Brugen - Newsweek
https://www.newsweek.com/leaked-fsb-letters-civial-war-putin-allies-prigozhin-kadyrov-1760455

Russian Spy Defects – Michael Weiss – Yahoo News
https://news.yahoo.com/exclusive-ex-russian-spy-flees-to-the-nato-country-that-captured-him-delivering-another-embarrassing-blow-to-moscow-010049616.html?guccounter=1

British embassy security guard David Smith admits spying for Russia – Gordon Corera 
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-63602000

Swedish brothers charged as spies for Russia – Phelan Chatterjee BBC 
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-63601266

China & Iran hire PI’s to spy on dissidents in US -  By Benjamin Weiser and William K. Rashbaum – New York Times
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/13/nyregion/china-iran-private-detectives.html

China’s new satellite hunting radar – Gabriel Honrada – Asia Times
https://asiatimes.com/2022/11/chinas-new-satellite-hunting-radar-aims-to-blind-us/

Spy Among Friends – 8th Dec ITV X & BritBox in UK – MGM Plus in 2023
https://cultbox.co.uk/news/start-dates/a-spy-among-friends-trailer-for-the-drama-which-launches-itvx

Andor - Available on Disney + 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andor_(TV_series)


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Sat, 03 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-12-03:/posts/8206877 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep13: The Ideology behind Elon Musk buying Twitter  https://audioboom.com/posts/8199797 13 The Ideology behind Elon Musk buying Twitter  7 3532 false full On this podcast episode, we are joined by author and journalist Dave Troy. Dave is an Investigative journalist addressing threats to democracy, and we discuss the possible ideological motivations behind Elon Musk’s recent purchase of Twitter, and it’s national security implications.

Read Dave’s fantastic article: “No, Elon and Jack are not competitors. They’re collaborating”
https://davetroy.medium.com/no-elon-and-jack-are-not-competitors-theyre-collaborating-3e88cde5267d

You can find out more about Dave Troy and his work here: https://about.davetroy.com/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Sun, 20 Nov 2022 11:27:59 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-11-20:/posts/8199797 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep12: Espresso Martini 2 https://audioboom.com/posts/8189341 12 Espresso Martini 2 7 4338 false full On the second episode of Espresso Martini, Chris & Matt do their best to cover events from the jam pact month of October.

Topics discussed
  • Elon Musk takes over Twitter
  • Russian espionage foiled in the US and Europe
  • Mysterious Chinese "Police stations" have been discovered in UK, USA & Europe
  • Spy Entertainment
Links

The Dry Cleaner is screening at the Horsham Film Festival on 30th November
Tickets are available here: https://www.everymancinema.com/Booking/horsham/8814967

Articles discussed in the show:

No, Elon and Jack are not “competitors.” They’re collaborating
https://davetroy.medium.com/no-elon-and-jack-are-not-competitors-theyre-collaborating-3e88cde5267d

Elon Musk Spoke to Putin Before Tweeting Ukraine Peace Plan: Report
https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-blocks-starlink-in-crimea-amid-nuclear-fears-report-2022-10

US army doctor and wife charged with Russia spying 
https://topsecretumbra.substack.com/p/its-raining-traitors

Russians expelled from the Hague
https://euobserver.com/world/156289

Chinese ‘police station’ in NYC that spies on dissenters run by shady charity on IRS blacklist
https://nypost.com/2022/10/08/chinese-police-station-spies-on-dissenters-linked-to-shady-us-charity/

More on the police stations
https://www.politico.eu/article/uk-police-china-london-glasgow-investigating-unacceptable-chinese-police-stations-in-britain/

Former RAF pilots in China training Chinese pilots to shoot down western aircraft
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/oct/18/raf-pilots-chinese-military-law-change-james-heappey

US charges alleged Chinese spies in telecoms probe case
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-63378817

UK sent RAF pilots to teach Chinese counterparts and allowed students to attend British military colleges
https://news.sky.com/story/uk-sent-raf-pilots-to-teach-chinese-counterparts-and-allowed-students-to-attend-british-military-colleges-12732462


Articles we did not get time to cover

Wired: How the World Will Know If Russia Is Preparing to Launch a Nuke
https://www.wired.com/story/russia-ukraine-nuclear-attack-surveillance/

Spy Talk: “A Bold New look at China’s Audacious Spies”  by Matt Brazil titled
https://open.substack.com/pub/spytalk/p/a-bold-new-look-at-chinas-audacious?r=19kty&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

“Terror Granny” plotting German civil war to bring back the Kaiser
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/terror-granny-accused-of-plotting-german-civil-war-to-bring-back-the-kaiser/ar-AA12Ywv7

The Hunt for Phish: How Agents Netted a Terrorist Jewel Thief 
https://www.coffeeordie.com/phish-isis-jewel-thief


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
]]> Sat, 05 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-11-04:/posts/8189341 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep11: Social Media Disinformation, US Mid Terms and Elon Musk with David Neiwert https://audioboom.com/posts/8188805 11 Social Media Disinformation, US Mid Terms and Elon Musk with David Neiwert 7 3905 false full Social Media Disinformation Mid Terms and Elon Musk with David Neiwert

On this podcast episode, we are joined by author and journalist David Neiwert.

David is an expert on the far-right, so he joins us to discuss online disinformation, the upcoming US midterm elections and the concerns about Elon Musk’s recent purchase of Twitter. 

You can read David’s articles here: https://www.dailykos.com/users/david%20neiwert

David is the author of a fantastic book called "Alt America: The Rise of the Alt-Right in the Age of Trump". You can get a copy here: https://www.versobooks.com/books/2801-alt-america and you can listen to our 2018 interview with David about his book here: https://pod.fo/e/14f9f and our 2021 chat about the Jan 6th Insurrection: https://pod.fo/e/b2262

It’s a deep episode, so pour yourself your favourite drink, sit back and I hope you find it informative. 


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 04 Nov 2022 08:23:21 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-11-04:/posts/8188805 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep10: Biden and the Afghan evacuation one year on with Frank Snepp https://audioboom.com/posts/8184998 10 Biden and the Afghan evacuation one year on with Frank Snepp 7 4831 false full On today's podcast, we are joined by former CIA officer and investigative journalist Frank Snepp. 

Frank recently published an article titled "Stop Kvetching About Biden’s Afghan “Screw-Ups” – Kudos Are Owed”. 
You can read it here: https://franksneppexclusives.com/?p=519

This is a detailed episode where I take a back seat and let Frank explain what he found. 

In the last section of the podcast, we discuss the broader context of the evacuation and what it is like to play god in an evacuation, having to decide who can leave and who has to stay.

It’s a deep episode, so pour yourself your favourite drink, sit back, and I hope you find it informative. 


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Mon, 31 Oct 2022 09:15:44 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-10-31:/posts/8184998 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep9: Putin’s war on Ukraine with Matthew Orr https://audioboom.com/posts/8183994 9 Putin’s war on Ukraine with Matthew Orr 7 4232 false full We are joined by Matthew Orr, a Eurasian analyst at RANE, Risk Assistance Network & Exchange in this episode.

We discuss Russia’s war on Ukraine and what to expect as winter settles in. We also look at Putin’s political motivations for the war and speculate on his future and what a Russia without Putin may look like.

You can find out more about RANE here: https://www.ranenetwork.com/

And you can also read a few of Matthew’s reports in the links below:
https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/drivers-and-potential-threats-deepening-russia-turkey-ties

https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/what-ukraines-victory-kharkiv-means-russias-war

https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/bracing-protracted-war-ukraine-part-1-time-kyivs-side

https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/bracing-protracted-war-ukraine-part-2-time-russias-side


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
 
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 28 Oct 2022 17:33:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-10-28:/posts/8183994 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep8: Hope Not Hate and the Walk-In with Nick Lowles https://audioboom.com/posts/8181259 8 Hope Not Hate and the Walk-In with Nick Lowles 7 3947 false full In this episode, we are joined by Nick Lowles from Hope Not Hate.  

Hope Not Hate is the real organisation behind ITV’s The Walk-In.

Nick joins us to discuss the work of Hope Not Hate, and he gives us an overview of the far-right in Britain today. 

We also discuss a Far Right plot by the terrorist group National Action to murder Labour MP, Rosie Cooper. That plot was foiled by a National Action member who objected to violence and became an informant for Hope Not Hate. The plot to murder Rosie Cooper has now been turned into an excellent ITV television drama called “The Walk-In.”

Find out more about Hope Not Hate here: https://hopenothate.org.uk/

You can connect with Nick on Twitter: https://twitter.com/lowles_nick

Watch "The Walk-In" on ITV player here: https://www.itv.com/hub/the-walk-in/2a7556a0005

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Thu, 27 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-10-26:/posts/8181259 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep7: Ukraine Update with Dr Taras Kuzio https://audioboom.com/posts/8173940 7 Ukraine Update with Dr Taras Kuzio 7 3284 false full In this episode, we are joined again by Dr Taras Kuzio, discussing the latest developments on Russia’s war against Ukraine. 

Taras Kuzio is a professor of political science at the National University of Kyiv Mohyla Academy and the author of Russian Nationalism and the Russian-Ukrainian War (2022) and Fascism and Genocide: Russia’s War Against Ukrainians (2023). 

You can connect with him on Twitter
https://twitter.com/TarasKuzio


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

]]> Thu, 13 Oct 2022 11:45:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-10-13:/posts/8173940 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep6: Espresso Martini 1 https://audioboom.com/posts/8167042 6 Espresso Martini 1 7 5133 false full We have a brand new show on Secrets & Spies! Welcome to episode one of Espresso Martini.

Once a month, Chris Carr & Matt Fulton will pick out stories that catch their eye about espionage, terrorism, geopolitics and pretty much anything that relates to the themes of the podcast.

In episode one, we look at the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, who died at the beginning of September. According to "C", the head of MI6, Britain's foreign intelligence service, Queen Elizabeth was the longest serving reader of intelligence briefs. 

We then look at a Russian Spy in Italy who tried to get close to service NATO members. We also take a look at Russia's latest citizen, Edward Snowden, who was a former employee of the CIA & NSA.

Other topics discussed in the podcast are the nuclear threat from Vladimir Putin's war on Ukraine, Luxury Nuclear bunkers and the world's most famous spy, James Bond, celebrating 60 years on screen.

Topics and links to articles discussed:

Her Majesty's Secret Service becomes His Majesty’s Secret Service. Her Majesty the Queen dies after a 75-year reign.
https://www.pressreader.com/uk/yorkshire-post/20220909/281547999727062

Russian Spy at NATO: Socialite, Widow, Jeweller, Spy: How a GRU Agent Charmed Her Way Into NATO Circles in Italy
https://www.bellingcat.com/news/2022/08/25/socialite-widow-jeweller-spy-how-a-gru-agent-charmed-her-way-into-nato-circles-in-italy/

Snowden becomes a Russian citizen.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-63036991

Ronald Pelton, a convicted spy for the Soviets, dies aged 80
https://www.washingtonpost.com/obituaries/2022/09/16/ronald-pelton-nsa-spy-dead/

The CIA turns 75! As part of the CIA’s 75 birthday celebrations, they opened up its refurbished museum to journalists:  https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-63023876

Writing tips about uncertainty from a former CIA officer who worked on the Presidential Daily Brief
https://medium.com/@aaronbman/writing-tips-from-the-pdb-conveying-uncertainty-ccf9769ee031

The growing nuclear threat posed by Putin
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2022/09/26/putin-nuclear-threat-bluff-us-biden-response/

Apocalypse hacking; Luxury nuclear bunkers for rich people
https://www.cnet.com/science/features/inside-the-survival-condo-nuclear-bunker-protecting-the-ultrarich-hacking-the-apocalypse/

James Bond 60th
https://variety.com/2022/film/global/james-bond-007-barbara-broccoli-michael-g-wilson-1235378239/

The Walk In
In the UK on ITV, a new 5 part terrorist drama based on a true story called “The Walk In.”
https://www.itv.com/presscentre/ep1week40/walk

Jack Ryan returns in December
https://collider.com/jack-ryan-season-3-release-date-john-krasinski-prime-video/?utm_medium=Social-Distribution&utm_campaign=Echobox-CL&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR1PT1ROgJb4mB08l1qb-LMH3IFFCHhCWzOyTWOsIpORjnQBFkum7wAh8sA#Echobox=1664374912

The Old Man on Disney plus in the UK
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5645432/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird). You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

]]> Sat, 01 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-09-30:/posts/8167042 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep5: Philby, Angleton and JFK https://audioboom.com/posts/8161924 5 Philby, Angleton and JFK 7 2950 false full On today's podcast, I am joined by Dr Anthony Wells, and we discuss his latest book, “Crossroads in Time: Philby & Angleton A Story of Treachery”, which looks at the relationship between Kim Philby and James Jesus Angleton. The book also takes a look at if Angleton, whilst at the CIA, could have done more to prevent the assassination of President John F Kennedy in 1963.

You can get a copy of “Crossroads in Time” here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crossroads-Time-Philby-Angleton-Treachery-ebook/dp/B09Y7R55SG/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1EB2LGU13Z5ET&keywords=CROSSROADS+IN+TIME&qid=1663851282&s=digital-text&sprefix=crossroads+in+time%2Cdigital-text%2C52&sr=1-2

And you can read more of Anthony’s writing here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Anthony-Wells/e/B08DMYF75P?ref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird). You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

]]> Sat, 24 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-09-22:/posts/8161924 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep4: Western Foreign Fighters and the Yazidi Genocide https://audioboom.com/posts/8149892 4 Western Foreign Fighters and the Yazidi Genocide 7 3691 false full On today's podcast, Liam Duffy from the Counter Extremism Project. In this episode, we discuss Liam’s report on Western Foreign Fighters and the Yazidi Genocide.

You can read Liam’s report here: https://www.counterextremism.com/press/cep-report-launch-western-foreign-fighters-and-yazidi-genocide

And you can read more of his writing here: https://unherd.com/author/liam-duffy/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk


For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
 
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

]]> Sat, 03 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-09-01:/posts/8149892 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep3: Heat 2 with Meg Gardiner https://audioboom.com/posts/8135079 3 Heat 2 with Meg Gardiner 7 2419 false full On our 100th podcast, we are joined by best-selling novelist Meg Gardiner, and we discuss “Heat 2”, which she co-authored with legendary film director Michael Mann.

Heat 2 is available here: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/heat-2-michael-mannmeg-gardiner?variant=40050976129058

You can find out more about Meg at her website: http://meggardiner.com/

You can follow Meg on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/MegGardiner1

You can follow Michale Mann on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/MichaelMann


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

This episode was edited by Rob Daniel 

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/ 

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/ 

You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways: 
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u


Connect with us on social media 

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER”, which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.  Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

]]> Tue, 09 Aug 2022 07:37:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-08-08:/posts/8135079 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep2: The Wayward Assassin with former CIA analyst Susan Ouellette https://audioboom.com/posts/8129567 2 The Wayward Assassin with former CIA analyst Susan Ouellette 7 3620 false full We are joined by former CIA analyst Susan Ouellette on today's podcast. We discuss her novel “The Wayward Assassin”, and we talk about how the Chechen war influenced her book.

You can find out more about Susan at her website below: https://www.susanouellette.com/


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

This episode was edited by Rob Daniel

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:
 
* Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

* Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

* You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u

Connect with us on social media

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
  
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime. 
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 29 Jul 2022 15:37:10 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-07-29:/posts/8129567 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S7 Ep1: Spy Game with Michael Frost Beckner https://audioboom.com/posts/8120778 1 Spy Game with Michael Frost Beckner 7 5388 false full On today's podcast, we are joined by Michael Frost Beckner. Michael was the writer of my favourite spy film “Spy Game”. He joins us to discuss the making of that film and we also look at his TV show “The Agency” which was the first TV show to get access to the CIA headquarters and it had direct assistance from the CIA on certain stories and episodes.

You can find out more about Michael at the following links below:

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: https://soundcloud.com/andrewbirduk

This episode was edited by Rob Daniel For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:
 



Connect with us on social media

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
 
Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
]]> Fri, 15 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-07-14:/posts/8120778 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep24: Radicalisation and Counter-Radicalisation in Higher Education https://audioboom.com/posts/8103724 24 Radicalisation and Counter-Radicalisation in Higher Education 6 4018 false full
On today's podcast, we are joined by authors Catherine McGlynn and Shaun McDaid. 

In this episode, we discuss their writing and research on Radicalisation and Counter-Radicalisation in Higher Education. 

You can get a copy of their book here: https://www.emerald.com/insight/publication/doi/10.1108/9781787560024

This episode was edited by Rob Daniel

For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com/

Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. 

Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/

Music 
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:

- [ ] Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

- [ ] Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

- [ ] You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

- [ ] Connect with us on social media
TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 

]]> Thu, 16 Jun 2022 19:37:15 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-06-16:/posts/8103724 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep23: Putin's Plan B for Ukraine with Frank Snepp https://audioboom.com/posts/8091489 23 Putin's Plan B for Ukraine with Frank Snepp 6 5453 false full In this episode, we are joined by former CIA officer and investigative journalist Frank Snepp. 

Frank Snepp won the CIA's second-highest award, the Medal of Merit, for his intelligence work in Vietnam. He went on to become a CIA whistleblower, a US Supreme Court precedent-maker; a Peabody award-winning investigative journalist, and the author of two CIA memoirs.

Frank recently published a very detailed article titled "Putin's Plan B for Ukraine", which delves into two murky peace plans connected to Russian intelligence and associates of former President Donald Trump. 

In the last section of the podcast, we look at the situation today and discuss how the war in Ukraine could end.

You can read Frank's article "Putin’s Plan B For Ukraine: The Trump Primer"
here: http://franksneppexclusives.com/?p=468

You can connect with Frank here:
Website: franksnepp.com; franksneppexclusives.com.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCzpM-owwI_CQBLlx6RZjkA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063466695236


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network.
Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/


Music 
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:

- [ ] Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

- [ ] Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

- [ ] You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

- [ ] Connect with us on social media
TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies
FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 

Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 







]]> Sat, 28 May 2022 07:53:42 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-05-28:/posts/8091489 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep22: The Betrayal with Robert Mazur https://audioboom.com/posts/8086864 22 The Betrayal with Robert Mazur 6 4481 false full On this podcast, I am joined by Robert Mazur, and we discuss his book “The Betrayal”, which looks at his time working undercover against the Cali cartel for the DEA.

Robert previously worked undercover for US Customs against the Medellin cartel in the legendary  “Operation C-Chase”. That story was later turned into an excellent film called “The Infiltrator”, and Robert was played by Bryan Cranston from “Breaking Bad.”

You can get a copy of Robert’s excellent book here:
https://uk.bookshop.org/books/the-betrayal-the-true-story-of-my-brush-with-death-in-the-world-of-narcos-and-launderers/9781785788390

You can find more about Robert at his website here:
https://www.robertmazur.com/


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network.

Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:


Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

You can buy merchandise from our shop:
https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

Connect with us on social media

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 


Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER”, which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 

]]> Thu, 19 May 2022 20:31:39 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-05-19:/posts/8086864 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep21: Impact of the Ukraine War on Russian Espionage activity in Europe. https://audioboom.com/posts/8079244 21 Impact of the Ukraine War on Russian Espionage activity in Europe. 6 3069 false full On today's podcast, I am joined by Sam Lichtenstein. Sam is Director of Analysis at RANE, the Risk Assistance Network and Exchange

In this episode, we discuss Sam’s articles about the impact of the Ukraine War on Russian Espionage activity in Europe. 

Sam’s Articles 

To read Sam’s articles, you can subscribe to Stratfor Worldview here: 
https://cloud.subscribe.stratfor.com/worldview (just $1 for 4 weeks)

The Impact of the Ukraine War on Russian Espionage in Europe, Part I 

The Impact of the Ukraine War on Russian Espionage in Europe, Part II

RANE

To find out more about RANE, please visit their website here:
https://www.ranenetwork.com/


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. 

Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird). You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:


- [ ] Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

- [ ] Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

- [ ] You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

- [ ] Connect with us on social media

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 


Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 





]]> Fri, 06 May 2022 16:51:31 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-05-06:/posts/8079244 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep20: Andrew Bustamante Everyday Spy https://audioboom.com/posts/8067740 20 Andrew Bustamante Everyday Spy 6 3806 false full On today's podcast, I am joined by former CIA officer and fellow podcaster Andrew Bustamante. We discuss his excellent website “Everyday Spy” which enables people to learn valuable lessons from the world of intelligence and apply them in their everyday life. Andrew also shares his thoughts and insights on the war on Ukraine towards the end of the episode.

Check out Andrew’s website here: https://everydayspy.com/

And his excellent podcast “Everyday Espionage” is here: https://everydayspy.com/podcast/

Andrew also supports the Mountain Seed Foundation which are doing vital humanitarian work in Ukraine. Please visit their website here: https://mountainseedfoundation.org/


Secrets and Spies is part of the Spy Podcast Network. Check out our other excellent spy-related podcasts here: https://www.spypodcasts.com/


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


You can support Secrets and Spies in a few ways:

- [ ] Subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

- [ ] Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

- [ ] You can buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

- [ ] Connect with us on social media

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 


Check out our short spy film “THE DRY CLEANER” which is now available to buy on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Watch the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 15 Apr 2022 18:35:34 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-04-15:/posts/8067740 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep19: Bio Labs, Chemical Weapons and Nukes with Dan Kaszeta https://audioboom.com/posts/8054390 19 Bio Labs, Chemical Weapons and Nukes with Dan Kaszeta 6 2884 false full On todays podcast we are joined by Dan Kaszeta, who is chemical and biological weapons expert. He is also the author of the fantastic book “Toxic” which is a history of nerve agents from Nazi German to Putin’s Russia. On this episode we discuss the conspiracy theories around so called “Bio Labs” and we also discuss the potential use of Chemical and Nuclear weapons in the war in Ukraine.

You can find out more and connect with Dan here: https://twitter.com/DanKaszeta

You can also buy a copy of his book “Toxic” here: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Kaszeta


Episode edited by Rob Daniel

Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast


YOUTUBE
Please subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

PATREON
Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

RED BUBBLE MEMORABILIA SHOP
Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


SOCIAL MEDIA

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 


 THE DRY CLEANER

Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 25 Mar 2022 09:51:25 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-03-25:/posts/8054390 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Spy Hards interview about my love of the film "Spy Game" https://audioboom.com/posts/8053699 63 false full Hi everyone

Just a quick shoutout, I was a guest on an excellent podcast called “Spy Hards”. On that episode we discuss one of my favourite spy movies “Spy Game”, directed by Tony Scott and starring Robert Redford and Brad Pitt.

You can listen to the episode here:

https://www.podpage.com/spyhards/081-spy-game-2001/

You can connect with “Spy Hards” here: https://linktr.ee/SpyHards

I hope you enjoy it ]]> Thu, 24 Mar 2022 08:51:22 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-03-24:/posts/8053699 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep18: Fighting Evil with Macer Gifford https://audioboom.com/posts/8050281 18 Fighting Evil with Macer Gifford 6 4371 true full On todays podcast we are joined by Macer Gifford and we discuss his book “Fighting Evil”, which looks at the controversial topic of volunteer fighters who joined the Kurds in the fight against ISIS.

You can find out more and connect with Macer here: https://twitter.com/macergifford

Episode edited by Rob Daniel

Music
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here:
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU

Please support this podcast

YOUTUBE
Please subscribe to our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg

PATREON
Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

RED BUBBLE MEMORABILIA SHOP
Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996

SOCIAL MEDIA

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies


THE DRY CLEANER
Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released on Apple TV & Amazon Prime.
Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 ]]> Fri, 18 Mar 2022 23:56:38 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-03-18:/posts/8050281 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep17: Putin and Ukraine with Dr. Taras Kuzio https://audioboom.com/posts/8043814 17 Putin and Ukraine with Dr. Taras Kuzio 6 3118 false full On todays podcast I am joined by Dr Taras Kuzio from the Henry Jackson society. Dr Kuzio wrote a great book called “Putin's War Against Ukraine: Revolution, Nationalism, and Crime”. 

On this episode we take a look at the background to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

You can also visit Dr Kuzio’s website here:
http://www.betweeneuropeandrussia.com/

You can also visit the Henry Jackson Society here:
https://henryjacksonsociety.org/


Episode edited by Rob Daniel

Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Tue, 08 Mar 2022 14:59:44 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-03-08:/posts/8043814 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep16: Russia Today & Ukraine with Dr Precious N Chatterje-Doody https://audioboom.com/posts/8042036 16 Russia Today & Ukraine with Dr Precious N Chatterje-Doody 6 2446 false full Today we are joined by Dr. Precious N Chatterje-Doody who co-authored the book “Russia Today and Conspiracy Theory” with with Dr Ilya Yablokov

On this episode we discuss how Russia Today has covered the Russian invasion of Ukraine. And we also take a look at the recent banning of the channel in the EU, UK and America.

The book is available with here: https://www.routledge.com/Russia-Today-and-Conspiracy-Theories-People-Power-and-Politics/Yablokov-Chatterje-Doody/p/book/9780367224677# 


You can also visit Dr Chatterje-Doody’s website here: https://www.preciouschatterjedoody.com 

Podcast edited by Rob Daniel


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 04 Mar 2022 18:24:35 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-03-04:/posts/8042036 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep15: Invasion of Ukraine with Edward Lucas https://audioboom.com/posts/8041177 15 Invasion of Ukraine with Edward Lucas 6 1610 false full On todays special podcast about the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we are joined by Edward Lucas. Edward is the author of the 2008 book “The New Cold War”. He has been warning us for many years of an increasing aggressive Russian foreign policy dictated by President Vladimir Putin.

You can find out more about Edward Lucas here: https://www.edwardlucas.com/about

Podcast Edited by Rob Daniel 



Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Thu, 03 Mar 2022 13:34:12 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-03-03:/posts/8041177 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Podcast Trailer https://audioboom.com/posts/8035143 45 false trailer Mon, 21 Feb 2022 12:37:07 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-02-21:/posts/8035143 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep14: Marc Polymeropoulos - Clarity in a Crisis https://audioboom.com/posts/8033382 14 Marc Polymeropoulos - Clarity in a Crisis 6 4203 false full Marc Polymeropoulos - Clarity in a Crisis

On this episode we are joined by former senior CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos and we discuss his book “Clarity in a Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the CIA”

You can find out more about Marc and get a copy of his book on his website: https://marcpolymeropoulos.com/


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: https://youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 18 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-02-17:/posts/8033382 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6: Podcast Update Feb 2022 https://audioboom.com/posts/8029755 6 608 false bonus Hello everyone, this is just a quick update about the podcast and upcoming episodes.

This is a link to the Warships Pod episode I was on about the Ukraine crisis
https://pod.fo/e/10808c

Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 11 Feb 2022 13:39:22 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-02-11:/posts/8029755 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep13: Syria, CIA & Damascus Station with David McCloskey https://audioboom.com/posts/8016376 13 Syria, CIA & Damascus Station with David McCloskey 6 3485 false full On this episode I am joined by former CIA analyst turned author David McCloskey.

David has written a fantastic new spy novel called Damascus Station”. I have to be honest David’s book is brilliant and sits in my favourite spy novels of all time.

On this episode David and I take a look at the situation in Syria, and look at how those real life elements informed his writing. 

And we ask the burning question…. Will the CIA hotdog machine return in David’s next book?

Tune in to find out more

You can connect with David and get a copy of “Damascus Station” via David’s website: https://www.davidmccloskeybooks.com/


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Thu, 20 Jan 2022 19:03:03 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-01-20:/posts/8016376 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep12: "Rutland From Jutland" -- Was a British war hero a Japanese spy? https://audioboom.com/posts/8012987 12 "Rutland From Jutland" -- Was a British war hero a Japanese spy? 6 2530 false full On this episode we are joined by Bradley W. Hart and Ron Drabkin, who have both been researching the life of Fredrick Rutland. Fredrick Rutland was a British war hero who was nicknamed “Rutland From Jutland” and it is alleged that he may have been a spy for the Japanese intelligence services in the build-up to World War Two.  
You can read Bradley and Ron’s paper on Fredrick Jutland here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08850607.2020.1871252

Also the story has recently been reported in the Hollywood Reporter


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:


]]> Fri, 14 Jan 2022 14:40:34 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2022-01-14:/posts/8012987 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep11: Russia Today and Conspiracy Theories with Dr Precious Chatterje-Doody https://audioboom.com/posts/7987700 11 Russia Today and Conspiracy Theories with Dr Precious Chatterje-Doody 6 3638 false full On this episode we are joined by Dr Precious.Chatterje-Doody and we discuss her book which she co-authored with Dr Ilya Yablokov called “Russia Today and Conspiracy Theory: People, Power and Politics of RT” 

The book is available with a 20% discount here (Use the code SOC21) : https://www.routledge.com/Russia-Today-and-Conspiracy-Theories-People-Power-and-Politics/Yablokov-Chatterje-Doody/p/book/9780367224677# 


You can also visit Dr Chatterje-Doody’s website here: https://www.preciouschatterjedoody.com 


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 03 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-11-29:/posts/7987700 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep10: Mike Spann - First Casualty with Toby Harnden https://audioboom.com/posts/7986264 10 Mike Spann - First Casualty with Toby Harnden 6 3094 false full On this episode we are joined by Toby Harnden and we discuss his new book “First Casualty” that takes a look at the first CIA team that went into Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks. The book also focuses on CIA officer Mike Spann who was tragically killed on that operation and became the first American casualty in the Afghan War.

You can get a copy of the book here:https://tobyharnden.com/first-casualty/

You can find out more about Toby’s work on his website: https://tobyharnden.com/


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Thu, 25 Nov 2021 14:16:09 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-11-25:/posts/7986264 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep9: Spymaster with Dr Helen Fry https://audioboom.com/posts/7973143 9 Spymaster with Dr Helen Fry 6 3329 false full On this episode we are joined by Dr Helen Fry and we discuss her fantastic new book “Spymaster” that takes a look at the life and work of MI6 officer Thomas Kendrick

You can get a copy of the book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spymaster-Man-Who-Saved-MI6/dp/0300255950/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=helen+fry+spymaster&qid=1633709106&sr=8-1

You can find out more about Helen’s work on her website: https://www.helen-fry.com/

You can also connect with her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrHelenFry and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DrHelenFry


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 05 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-11-03:/posts/7973143 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep8: Ian Fleming’s War https://audioboom.com/posts/7951150 8 Ian Fleming’s War 6 2270 false full
On this episode we are joined by author Mark Simmons and we discuss his book “Ian Fleming’s War”


You can get a copy of the book here: https://www.thehistorypress.co.uk/publication/ian-fleming-s-war/9780750993265/



Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 

]]> Wed, 29 Sep 2021 11:43:43 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-09-29:/posts/7951150 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep7: Reflecting on 9/11 with Tom Parker https://audioboom.com/posts/7944101 7 Reflecting on 9/11 with Tom Parker 6 3719 false full On this episode we are joined by author Tom Parker and we reflect on the legacy of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Tom has written a fantastic in-depth book called “Avoiding the Terrorist Trap”.  

You can get a copy of the book here: https://www.worldscientific.com/worldscibooks/10.1142/p995

You can follow Tom on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/tdgparker


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 17 Sep 2021 13:54:08 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-09-17:/posts/7944101 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep6: Reflecting on 9/11 with Angie Gad https://audioboom.com/posts/7941952 6 Reflecting on 9/11 with Angie Gad 6 3235 false full We are joined by counterterrorism analyst Angie Gad and we reflect on the legacy of 9/11.

You can connect with Angie on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/Angieslyst 


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Tue, 14 Sep 2021 14:33:44 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-09-14:/posts/7941952 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6: Reflections on 9/11 & Podcast Update https://audioboom.com/posts/7940319 6 635 false full On this brief podcast, I just wanted to take a moment to share my memories of 9/11 in London 20 years ago. 

I also wanted to give you a quick update about the podcast. We will have two 9/11 specials over the following week. 

The podcast will then take a break over October and return on Friday 5th November and continue once a month, with the odd extra episode if time allows.

I just want to say if anyone listening was affected in 9/11 you are in my thoughts on this anniversary.


]]> Fri, 10 Sep 2021 23:12:39 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-09-10:/posts/7940319 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep5: License to Parent with former CIA officer Christina Hillsberg https://audioboom.com/posts/7915963 5 License to Parent with former CIA officer Christina Hillsberg 6 4476 false full License to Parent

On today’s podcast we are joined by former CIA officer Christina Hillsberg, who has written a fantastic book about how she and her husband Ryan have used their CIA training to raise resourceful and self-sufficient children.
 
Christina’s book is great as it gives a real snap shot of how CIA officers think and gives practical examples of how they use that training in their day to day lives. I personally think the book is great for spy buffs and it is also a great self-help book for adults who don’t plan to raise children but want to sharpen their own personal skills. There is literally something for everyone in this book!

You can find out more about Christina and Ryan’s story and their book here: https://www.christinahillsberg.com/


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4


And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)

You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon 
Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Visit our new memorabilia shop:
https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 03 Sep 2021 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-08-01:/posts/7915963 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep4: Dr Ayesha Ray on the fall of Afghanistan and its geopolitical consequences https://audioboom.com/posts/7929994 4 Dr Ayesha Ray on the fall of Afghanistan and its geopolitical consequences 6 1634 true full On this episode we are joined Dr Ayesha Ray who is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kings College in Pennsylvania.

We discuss the situation in Afghanistan, the media and online reaction to the fall of Kabul.  We also take a look at the wider geo-political consequences of the Taliban take over of Afghanistan and we discuss why Pakistan supports them.

It’s quite a packed episode!

You can follow Dr Ray on twitter here: https://twitter.com/DrAyeshaRay


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here:
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Wed, 25 Aug 2021 08:42:40 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-08-25:/posts/7929994 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep3: The fall of Kabul and the fall of Saigon with Frank Snepp https://audioboom.com/posts/7927192 3 The fall of Kabul and the fall of Saigon with Frank Snepp 6 2680 false full On this episode of Secrets & Spies, we are joined by former CIA officer and Peabody Award-winning investigative journalist Frank Snepp.

Frank was a CIA officer who served in the Vietnam war and he was there at the fall of Saigon, so in light of the recent events in Afghanistan we take a look at the similarity and differences between the fall of Saigon and Kabul.

We also discuss the intelligence picture that led up to the chaotic scenes we have witnessed as US and NATO forces attempt to evacuate personnel and Afghan allies from Afghanistan.

Frank has asked me to add this about the fall of Saigon:

"Because of US Ambassador Graham Martin’s reluctance to accelerate departures and risk upsetting the “controlled conditions he thought were needed for a diplomatic solution to the military crisis, the pullout from Saigon devolved into every man and woman for themselves. 

Every agency battled for seat space on outgoing aircraft, violating the quotas assigned to each one. Vietnamese girlfriends and maids were often shoehorned into evacuee lists ahead of Vietnamese who had loyally at great hazard worked with US agencies in sensitive positions.  On the last day of the war there was no master list in the embassy of the Vietnamese at highest risk and most deserving of being flown to safety. 

As Snepp points out in his memoir of these events, Decent Interval, nearly 52,000 people were lifted out of Vietnam in the month of April 1975 on American military aircraft – 6,763 Americans and roughly 46,000 Vietnamese and other third-party personnel. Counting people who departed by commercial carriers, undocumented black flights and the 6,000 who came out by barge the total number of evacuees for which the embassy could claim some responsibility that month was 65,000. 
Another 65,000 escaped on their own just before the Communist takeover and in the two years that followed, bringing the total evacuees for that period to 140,000.

Ambassador Martin told Congress in early 1976 that 22,294 Vietnamese employed by US agencies had been evacuated by April 30 of the previous year. That was a small fraction of the indigenous employees of these agencies and their families – 90,000. To judge from Martin’s figures less than one third of these deeply imperiled people benefitted from the airlift.

Only the Defense Attaché’s Office which had largely controlled available aircraft and the boarding process, came close to evacuating all the “locals” on its payroll, 3,800. But Colonel William Le Gro, who headed DAO intelligence operations, later acknowledged that only 20 percent of the Vietnamese whom his staff had ushered onto outgoing aircraft were truly high risk.

Out of the 1,900 “indigenous employees” of the CIA station only about 500 were finally evacuated – together with 2,000 others including family members who had enjoyed privileged contacts with the Agency over the years." 

You can read more about Frank’s experiences in Vietnam in his excellent books “Decent Interval” and “Irreparable Harm” which are both available to buy via Frank’s website:http://franksnepp.com/

Frank’s journalism and other writings can be viewed on his blog: franksneppexclusives.com/

Check out our past interview with Frank about the CIA mission in Vietnam
https://pod.fo/e/213e1

Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here:
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us:

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies
]]> Thu, 19 Aug 2021 22:29:53 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-08-19:/posts/7927192 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep2: Future Intelligence threats with Rolf Mowatt-Larssen https://audioboom.com/posts/7908480 2 Future Intelligence threats with Rolf Mowatt-Larssen 6 4122 true full On this episode of Secrets & Spies, we are joined by Rolf Mowatt-Larssen. 

Rolf is a senior fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, Belfer Centre, prior to that appointment he was the Director of Intelligence & Counter Intelligence at the US Department of Energy. Before that he served in the CIA for 23 years as an intelligence officer.

On this podcast we discuss future intelligence threats such climate change, WMD’s, Chemical Weapons and more.

You can find out more about Rolf here: https://www.belfercenter.org/person/rolf-mowatt-larssen

And you can get an copy of his excellent memoir “A State of Mind: Faith and the CIA.” https://amzn.to/3eBqUeN

Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: 
https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 06 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-07-20:/posts/7908480 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S6 Ep1: Money Laundering, Organised Crime and Trojan Shield https://audioboom.com/posts/7894712 1 Money Laundering, Organised Crime and Trojan Shield 6 3367 false full On today’s podcast we are joined by Ben West and we take a look at money laundering, its connection to organised crime and an FBI sting operation called “Trojan Shield”
 
Ben is a Senior Global Security Analyst with Stratfor, a RANE company.

You can read Ben's two articles on money laundering here:

https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/basics-money-laundering-how-criminal-organizations-move-illicit-revenue-legal-economy 



Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

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]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2021 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-06-28:/posts/7894712 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: The Podcast is five years old! https://audioboom.com/posts/7894557 5 3208 false full On 28th June 2016 I recorded my first interview for the podcast.

Back then the podcast was called “The Dry Cleanercast” named after my film “The Dry Cleaner” and now the podcast is “Secrets & Spies”

I have decided to re-air the first episode with a little behind the scenes story about the recording of that first interview.

You can find out more about Meredith Tax and her two books “The Double Bind” & “A road unforeseen” here at here website: https://www.meredithtax.org/book.php

Thank you for listening to the podcast for five years.

Keep an ear out for Season Six starting on Friday 2nd July



Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
 
Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm 
 
MUSIC

Music Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here:
www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU
 
 
Please support this podcast
 
Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies 
 
 
Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996 
 
 
Connect with us here:
 
TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies 
 
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies 

]]> Sun, 27 Jun 2021 23:25:42 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-06-27:/posts/7894557 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Between Five Eyes with Anthony Wells https://audioboom.com/posts/7880596 5 4060 false full On this episode of “Secrets and Spies”, we are joined by author and former intelligence officer Anthony Wells

We discuss Anthony’s excellent book “Between Five Eyes”, which takes a detailed look at UK-US intelligence through a personal lens based on working uniquely for UK intelligence as a British citizen and US intelligence as a US citizen.
 
 
 
Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
 
Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm
 
MUSIC

Music Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here:
 
 
Please support this podcast
 
Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast” on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies
 
 
Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996
 
 
Connect with us here:
 
 
]]> Fri, 04 Jun 2021 09:14:04 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-06-04:/posts/7880596 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: The Spy Who Was Left Out In The Cold with Tim Tate https://audioboom.com/posts/7870743 5 4924 false full On this episode of “Secrets and Spies”, we are re- joined by author Tim Tate

We discuss his latest book “The Spy Who Was Left Out In The Cold” which takes a look at Polish intelligence officer Michal Goleniewski who became one of the West’s most effective Cold War spies. 

Michal has largely been written out of western intelligence history. 

Join us on the podcast to find out why.

You can find out more the book which is available from 27th May here: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/112/1120299/the-spy-who-was-left-out-in-the-cold/9781787634015.html

You can find out more about Tim’s previous work here: https://timtate.co.uk/ and connect with him on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/TimTateBooks


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here:

https://www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0%E2%80%A6BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies

]]> Thu, 20 May 2021 21:24:53 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-05-20:/posts/7870743 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: “Our Man In New York” https://audioboom.com/posts/7861094 5 3168 false full On this episode of “Secrets and Spies”, we are joined by author Henry Hemming

We discuss his book “Our Man in New York” which takes a look at the history of the secretive BSC and its mysterious spymaster William Stephenson. Henry and I discuss the myth and facts of BSC’s operations in the US prior to America joining the fight in World War 2

You can find out more about Henry and his book here:
http://henryhemming.com/


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)


You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon 
Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3

www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Visit our new memorabilia shop:
https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies

]]> Fri, 07 May 2021 20:08:05 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-05-07:/posts/7861094 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Economic Espionage - Ben West from Stratfor https://audioboom.com/posts/7835624 5 3258 false full On today’s podcast we are joined by Ben West and we take a look at economic espionage past, present and future. 
 
Ben is a Senior Global Security Analyst with Stratfor, a RANE company. 

You can read Ben's reports here:

Understanding Economic Espionage: The Future

Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon 
Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Visit our new memorabilia shop:
https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies

]]> Thu, 01 Apr 2021 17:06:04 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-04-01:/posts/7835624 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: “Hitler’s American Friends” with Bradley W. Hart https://audioboom.com/posts/7814591 5 4860 false full “Hitler’s American Friends” 

On this of “Secrets and Spies”, we are joined by author Bradley W. Hart

We discuss his book “Hitler’s American Friends” which takes a look at the history of Nazi sympathisers in America before and during World War Two. 

You can get a copy of Bradley’s book here:
https://t.co/HcyUt8s6mB?amp=1

And you can connect with Bradley on Twitter here:
https://twitter.com/DrBHart


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon 
Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Visit our new memorabilia shop:
https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 05 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-03-03:/posts/7814591 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Everything you wanted to know about COVID but were afraid to ask https://audioboom.com/posts/7804870 5 3484 true full On this special COVID-19 episode of “Secrets and Spies”, we are joined by author and expert Dan Kaszeta

We discuss what is known about COVID-19, we take a look at the vaccines now available and we tackle some of the myths and conspiracy theories that have grown online since the pandemic began.

Dan is a Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) security specialist. He previously served in the US Army and the US Secret Service. Dan is also the author of 'Toxic' which looks at the history of nerve agents from Nazi Germany through to Putin’s Russia.

So we are in good company on this episode!

You can get a copy of Dan’s book “Toxic” here: www.hurstpublishers.com/book/toxic/

And you can connect with Dan on Twitter here:
https://twitter.com/DanKaszeta


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3 www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies

Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies

]]> Sat, 20 Feb 2021 06:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-02-19:/posts/7804870 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Avoiding The Terrorist Trap with Tom Parker https://audioboom.com/posts/7791283 5 5963 true full On this episode of “Secrets and Spies”, we are joined by author Tom Parker

Tom has written a fantastic in-depth book called “Avoiding the Terrorist Trap”.  Tom and I discuss his research into the history of terrorism and we look at what he calls “The Terrorist Trap”, that governments frequently fall into when fighting terrorism. 

You can get  a copy  of “Avoiding the Terrorist Trap”  here: https://www.worldscientific.com/worldscibooks/10.1142/p995

Use these codes to get an exclusive discount:

Hardback: 55% discount code: P995PARKERHC
Ebook: 30% discount code: P995PARKEREB


You can also  follow Tom on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/tdgparker


Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)

You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Patreon 
Become a “Friend of the podcast”  on Patreon for £3

www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies


Visit our new memorabilia shop:
https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996


Connect with us here:

TWITTER
twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 05 Feb 2021 14:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-02-04:/posts/7791283 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Podcast Update Feb 2021 - "The Tiers (or tears) of Patreon" https://audioboom.com/posts/7790051 422 false full Just a quick update on how the podcast will be released in the months ahead and some changes to how we will use Patreon going forward]]> Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:02:55 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-02-03:/posts/7790051 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: 6th January Capital Attack, Trump's Legacy and the future of the Far-Right https://audioboom.com/posts/7776930 5 4302 true full On this episode of “Secrets and Spies”, we are joined by author and journalist David Neiwert.

We discuss President Trumps Legacy, the rise of the far-right during his time in office, the events of 6th January and what they mean for the future as President-Elect Joe Biden is sworn into office.

David is the author of a fantastic book called "Alt America: The Rise of the Alt-Right in the Age of Trump". and “Red Pill Blue Pill: How to counteract the conspiracy theories that are killing us”

All of his books are available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-David-Neiwert/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3ADavid+Neiwert (UK)

https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3ADavid+Neiwert&s=relevancerank&text=David+Neiwert&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1 (US)


You can follow David on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/DavidNeiwert

Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4 And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU


Please support this podcast

Become a Patreon Subscriber Get early access to episodes by becoming a Patreon subscriber. Early access from $5 a month www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies
Get a Secrets & Spies t-shirt, cup, coaster and more. Visit our new memorabilia shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996?asc=u



Connect with us here:

TWITTER twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> We discuss President Trumps Legacy, the rise of the far-right during his time in office, the events of 6th January and what they mean for the future as President-Elect Joe Biden is sworn into office. Wed, 20 Jan 2021 01:20:52 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2021-01-20:/posts/7776930 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: The Unexpected Spy - Interview with Tracy Walder https://audioboom.com/posts/7757044 5 3070 true full On today’s episode, I am joined by Tracy Walder. We discuss her career from the CIA, the FBI and as a teacher today inspiring the next generation. 

Find out more about Tracy here: https://www.tracywalder.com/

You can get a copy of Tracy’s book here: https://www.tracywalder.com/preorder-book-retailers

You can connect with her on Twitter here:  https://twitter.com/tracy_walder


Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird) You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU

For podcast merchandise please visit our new Redbubble shop: www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/54491911?asc=u

My Spy Film
 My short spy “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm

Don't forget to connect with us on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies 


]]> Former CIA officer and FBI Special Agent, Tracy Walder discusses her book "The Unexpected Spy" Fri, 15 Jan 2021 01:00:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2020-12-23:/posts/7757044 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Secret Twenties with Timothy Phillips https://audioboom.com/posts/7754569 5 3809 true full On today’s episode, I am joined by author Timothy Phillips.  

We discuss his book “The Secret Twenties” which takes a look at espionage in 1920’s Britain.

You can get a copy of Timothy's book here: https://granta.com/contributor/timothy-phillips/ 

You can connect with him on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/tsjphillips and Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/curtainandwall 

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU

For podcast merchandise please visit our new Redbubble shop:
www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/54491911?asc=u

My Spy Film
My short spy “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

And you can buy the film here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm

Don't forget to connect with us on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/SecretsAndSpies 

]]> On this episode, we take a look at espionage in 1920's Britain. Thu, 31 Dec 2020 00:07:00 +0000 tag:audioboom.com,2020-12-18:/posts/7754569 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Prevent Two Years On https://audioboom.com/posts/7727630 5 3227 false full “Prevent Two Years On”
On the podcast, we are re-joined Sean Arbuthnot and William Baldet, who both work on the UK government’s Countering Violent Extremism programme called “Prevent”.
On this episode, we discuss what has changed, what hasn’t changed, and the reaction to Prevent since we last spoke in 2018.
You can listen to our original discussion here: https://pod.fo/e/14f9d
For more information about “Prevent” you can visit the “Let’s Talk About It” website here: https://www.ltai.info/
For more information about Extremism today please visit Educate Against Hate: https://educateagainsthate.com/
Show Notes:
This is a link to the Guardian article Will mentioned that was critical of NGO’s supporting the CVE work of “Prevent”
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2016/may/02/uk-government-covert-propaganda-stop-muslims-joining-isis
The Guardian article was reportedly based on information provided by Cage
https://www.cage.ngo/product/we-are-completely-independent-report
Cage became famous when Asim Qureshi called the ISIS terrorist “Jihadi John” a “beautiful young man” https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-31650427
Cage reportedly held events and campaigned in support of notorious hate preacher and Al Qaeda terrorist Anwar Al-Awlaki Author and Terrorism researcher Shriaz Maher wrote about this in Standpoint magazine here:
https://standpointmag.co.uk/anwar-al-awlaki-s-british-supporters-part-2/
Music
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU
Please support this podcast
Become a Patreon Subscriber
Get early access to episodes by becoming a Patreon subscriber. Early access from $5 a month
www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies
Get a Secrets & Spies t-shirt, cup, coaster and more. Visit our new memorabilia shop:
www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/54491911?asc=u
My Spy Film
My short spy “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm
Connect with us here:
]]> Mon, 24 Aug 2020 06:55:24 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/880692208 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Pandemic and Anti Vaccination Conspiracy Theories with Debra Winter https://audioboom.com/posts/7727631 5 3582 false full Pandemic and Anti Vaccination Conspiracy Theories with Debra Winter
On today's “Secrets and Spies” podcast I am joined by Debra Winter.

Debra is a professor of Literature and Critical Thinking at New York University and she is the author of the up and coming book “Global Catastrophe and Literature: Writing the sublime”.
We discuss her excellent article that was published in The Guardian titled “Meet the white, middle-class Pinterest moms who believe “Plandemic”. Which looks at the rise in conspiratorial thinking towards vaccinations and the dangers that presents in todays world.
You can find out more about Debra and her work here: http://www.debrawinter.com/
In our discussion we refer to the following:
“If You Found That ‘Plandemic’ Video Convincing, Read This Too” by Beth Skwarecki
https://vitals.lifehacker.com/if-you-found-that-plandemic-video-convincing-read-th-1843339002
Ted Talk with Andrew Marantz who spent three years embedded in the world of internet trolls and social media propagandists: https://www.ted.com/talks/andrew_marantz_inside_the_bizarre_world_of_internet_trolls_and_propagandists?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare
How do fake websites make money:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/business-38919403
A good resource on misinformation online: https://www.stopfake.org/en/tag/internet-trolls/
I refer to the book “Voodoo Histories” by David Aaronovitch which really helped challenge the conspiratorial views I once held.
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/306318/voodoo-histories-by-david-aaronovitch/
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU
Please support this podcast
Become a Patreon Subscriber
Get early access to episodes by becoming a Patreon subscriber. Early access from $5 a month
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]]> Fri, 14 Aug 2020 10:33:45 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/875664205 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Spies Of The Deep https://audioboom.com/posts/7727632 5 3492 false full On this episode of “Secrets & Spies” I am joined by William Craig Reed, who is a former US Navy diver, turned best-selling author. 

We discuss the tragic sinking of the Kursk Submarine, and how that tragic event is linked to President Vladimir Putin’s geopolitical plans in the Arctic today. 

For more information about William and his fantastic book “Spies of the deep” go to http://wcraigreed.com/nonfiction/spies-of-the-deep/

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU

Please support this podcast

Become a Patreon Subscriber
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Visit our new memorabilia shop:
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My Spy Film
My short spy “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!

Check out the trailer here: youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

Connect with us here:
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FACEBOOK 
www.facebook.com/secretsandspies ]]> Fri, 07 Aug 2020 13:37:46 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/871854541 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Secrets of the Kashmir Valley https://audioboom.com/posts/7727633 5 2484 false full "Secrets of the Kashmir Valley”
On this episode, we are joined by author and counterterrorism expert Farhana Qazi and we discuss her book "Secrets of the Kashmir Valley"
Farhana was previously on the podcast back in November 2018. You can listen to that interview here: https://pod.fo/e/14f94
You can find out more about Farhana by going to her website: https://farhanaqazi.com/
Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU
Please support this podcast
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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And you can buy the film here:
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Connect with us here:
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]]> Mon, 27 Jul 2020 04:00:09 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/862953997 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: "Need To Know" - Russia Report With Calder Walton https://audioboom.com/posts/7727634 5 1601 false full Secrets & Spies Present: Need to Know
Need to Know is our current affairs strand of the podcast that complements our regular interviews. 
Today on "Need to Know" we are joined by author and intelligence historian Calder Walton. 
We discuss the recent UK Government looking at Russian interference in British politics. 

Calder is also the author of the fantastic book “Empire of Secrets” which is available at all resellers.

You can find out more about Calder and his work at his website: www.calderwalton.com/

This is a link to the report Calder mentions on the Bio-Revolution that is transforming economics and society
https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/pharmaceuticals-and-medical-products/our-insights/the-bio-revolution-innovations-transforming-economies-societies-and-our-lives

Music on this podcast is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU

Please support this podcast

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]]> Thu, 23 Jul 2020 18:50:05 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/863289409 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S5: Need To Know - Russian Bounties With Frank Snepp https://audioboom.com/posts/7727635 5 3624 false full NEED TO KNOW: Russian Bounties with Frank Snepp
A few weeks ago, a story broke in the New York Times, claiming it had been discovered that the Russian government had been paying bounties to the Taliban to target and kill US and Allied forces in Afghanistan.
There has been an understandable shock and condemnation in the US and in the UK when the story first broke.
President Trump’s reaction to the story has been to claim ignorance to the whole thing and claim that he was never briefed by US intelligence officials about any of this.
On today’s “Need to Know” podcast we are joined by former CIA officer and Peabody Award-winning investigative journalist Frank Snepp and we discuss the Russian bounties story.
You can find out more about Frank and his books “Decent Interval” and “Irreparable Harm” on Frank’s website: franksnepp.com/
Frank’s journalism and other writings can be viewed on his blog: franksneppexclusives.com/
Music On this episode:
Music is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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]]> Wed, 22 Jul 2020 09:40:30 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/862400884 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Listener Update -- Podcast Reboot in progress & Summer break https://audioboom.com/posts/7727636 332 false full The Dry Cleanercast will be rebooted as "Secrets & Spies" in the Autumn.
A new show called "Espresso Martini" will join our regular interview show and "Need to Know".
Watch this space
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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Connect with us here:
]]> Mon, 13 Jul 2020 13:33:07 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/857150038 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Frank Snepp CIA In Vietnam https://audioboom.com/posts/7727637 4 9493 false full CIA in Vietnam with Frank Snepp
On today’s podcast we are joined by Frank Snepp.
Frank served with the CIA during the Vietnam war. He was the chief analyst of North Vietnamese strategy. He was there at the fall of Saigon and today we discuss his experiences during the Vietnam war and the intelligence failures that contributed to the US and South Vietnamese loss of the war.
Frank published the book “Decent Interval” as an after-action report about the intelligence failures he witnessed in Vietnam. He hoped the book would galvanise the CIA into mounting rescue efforts for the hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese allies left behind.
Sadly nothing happened and Frank was instead sued by the US government for publishing his book.
After the CIA Frank went on to become an investigative journalist and he won a Peabody Award for his work.
You can find out more about Frank and his books “Decent Interval” and “Irreparable Harm” from Frank’s website: https://franksnepp.com/
Frank’s journalism and other writings can be viewed on his blog: http://franksneppexclusives.com/
This is our longest interviews and possibly one of the most fascinating.
So pour yourself your favourite drink, sit back and join me on a trip back in time to 1960s Vietnam.
Music On this episode:
Music is provided by Andrew R. Bird (Andy Bird)
You can check out his work here: www.monsteromnibus.com/?fbclid=IwAR0…BdNQbuCvt9KWU
Please support this podcast
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

And you can buy the film here:
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Connect with us here:
]]> Fri, 10 Jul 2020 16:00:14 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/854823325 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Former CIA officer Sarah M. Carlson - In the dark of war https://audioboom.com/posts/7727639 4 3725 false full “In the dark of war”
On this month’s podcast, we are joined by former CIA officer Sarah M. Carlson.
Sarah was deployed to Libya in 2013. A year into her deployment the situation in Libya deteriorated and it was decided to evacuate the US mission in Tripoli. Sarah played a key role in leading over 150 staff from the US mission to safety.
After a legal dispute with the CIA, she is now able to tell her story publicly.
We discuss her book “In the dark of war” which looks at her time in Libya.
You can find out more about Sarah here:
http://www.sarahmcarlson.com/
Please support this podcast

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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

And you can buy the film here:
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Connect with us here:
]]> Sun, 14 Jun 2020 08:36:24 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/839880121 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Why Spies Spy with Michael Smith https://audioboom.com/posts/7727641 4 2883 false full Why Spies Spy
On this month’s podcast, we are joined by author and journalist Michael Smith.
We discuss his book “Anatomy of a Spy” which takes a look at why spies spy.
You can find out more about Michael and his books here:
https://www.michaelsmithauthor.com/
All of Michael’s books and “Anatomy of a spy” are available at Amazon and all other book sellers.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Michael-Smith/e/B001H6O0OS%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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Connect with us here:
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]]> Sun, 31 May 2020 23:25:04 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/831887278 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Dan Kaszeta - COVID19 is not a biological weapon https://audioboom.com/posts/7727642 4 2827 false full WELCOME TO NEED TO KNOW
On this month’s podcast, we are joined by Dan Kaszeta.
Dan is Security/CBRN specialist and a US Army Veteran. He is also the author of 'Toxic' which is due out on 1st July 2020
On this episode, we discuss Dan’s Washington Post article on why the Coronavirus is not a biological weapon.
And pre-order his book Toxic here:
https://www.hurstpublishers.com/book/toxic/
Please support this podcast

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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm
]]> Sun, 31 May 2020 23:17:28 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/831884305 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: David Neiwert COVID Conspiracy Theories And The Far Right https://audioboom.com/posts/7727643 4 4156 false full WELCOME TO NEED TO KNOW
On this month’s podcast, we are joined by author and journalist David Neiwert.
We discuss the latest Conspiracy Theories inspired by the Coronavirus and look at how many of those theories have their roots in far-right ideology.
We look at the economics of conspiracy theories, the dangers of conspiracy theories during a worldwide pandemic and Chris shares a few memories from his past as a conspiracy theorist.
David is the author of a fantastic book called "Alt America: The Rise of the Alt-Right in the Age of Trump". You can get a copy here: amzn.to/2PKvY5p and you can listen to our earlier interview with David about his book here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/podcast/#/ep…ge-of-trump/
Please support this podcast

Get early access to episodes by becoming a Patreon subscriber. Early access from $5 a month
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm
Connect with us here:
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]]> Thu, 07 May 2020 15:02:03 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/815386150 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Gordon Corera Russians Among Us https://audioboom.com/posts/7727644 4 3077 false full On this month’s podcast, we are joined by author and journalist Gordon Corera. Gordon is the BBC's Security Correspondent.
We discuss his book “Russians Among Us” which takes a look at the use of sleeper spies by the Russian intelligence services. 
You can find out more about Gordon and his books here:
https://www.harpercollins.com/author/cr-128450/gordon-corera/
And you can see his reporting for the BBC here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/correspondents/gordoncorera
You can also connect with him on Twitter here:
https://www.twitter.com/gordoncorerar
Please support this podcast

Get early access to episodes by becoming a Patreon subscriber. Early access from $5 a month
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
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Connect with us here:
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]]> Fri, 24 Apr 2020 07:23:16 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/805935373 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: A Naval Perspective On COVID - 19 https://audioboom.com/posts/7727645 4 4456 false full On this episode of “Need to Know” we are joined by author and journalist Iain Ballantyne. We take a look at how COVID-19 is effecting navies across the world and we also look at the first digital edition of Warships magazine.
To get a copy of Warships IFR go to WWW.WARSHIPSIFR.COM/
For more information about Iain check out his website here: WWW.IAINBALLANTYNE.COM
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2020 10:15:42 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/800715259 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: SPIES FIGHTING A SHADOW WAR AGAINST COVID19 https://audioboom.com/posts/7727646 4 2132 false full On a special episode of "Need to Know" we are joined by author and intelligence historian Calder Walton. We discuss his brilliant article called “Spies Are Fighting a Shadow War Against the Coronavirus” for Foreign Policy.
Calder is also the author of the fantastic book “Empire of Secrets” which is available at all resellers.
You can find out more about Calder and his work at his website: www.calderwalton.com/
Please support this podcast
Get early access to episodes by becoming a Patreon subscriber. Early access from $5 a month

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www.paypal.me/drycleanercast
Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm
Connect with us here:
]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2020 17:29:48 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/793153624 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Matt Fulton - "Active Measures" book and new chapter. https://audioboom.com/posts/7727647 4 2067 false full On this special podcast, we are joined by independent author Matt Fulton and we discuss his spy book “Active Measures”.
You can connect with him on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/fultonmatt
Check out his website here: https://mattfulton.net/
Please support this podcast
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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]]> Tue, 31 Mar 2020 10:36:11 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/787491343 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Calder Walton British Intelligence in the age of Brexit and Bellingcat. https://audioboom.com/posts/7727648 4 3364 false full On this month’s podcast we are joined by author and intelligence historian Calder Walton.
We discuss the future of British Intelligence in the age of Brexit and Bellingcat.
Calder is the author of the fantastic book “Empire of Secrets” which is available at all resellers. He also wrote a brilliant article called “The Spies Who Came In From The Continent” for Foreign Policy magazine which was the inspiration for this episode. You can read it here: https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/04/27/the-spies-who-came-in-from-the-continent-espionage-britain-brexit/
You can find out more about Calder and his work at his website: http://www.calderwalton.com/
Please support this podcast

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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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]]> Fri, 27 Mar 2020 13:20:56 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/784534927 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies Service announcement, COVID, new episodes & Patreon https://audioboom.com/posts/7727649 238 false full Please support this podcast
Get early access with a Patreon monthly subscription
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Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
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]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2020 17:29:21 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/778410379 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: John Calvert Discusses Sayyid Qutb https://audioboom.com/posts/7727650 4 2911 false full WELCOME TO EPISODE THIRTY-TWO
On this month’s podcast, we are joined by author John Calvert. We discuss his book “Sayyid Qutb and the Origins of Radical Islamism”
You can purchase the book at the following links
Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4

And you can buy the film here:
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]]> Fri, 28 Feb 2020 16:52:35 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/768054772 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Need To Know: David Neiwert on latest Far Right developments https://audioboom.com/posts/7727651 4 3710 false full WELCOME TO NEED TO KNOW
On this month’s podcast, we are joined by author and journalist David Neiwert.
We discuss the latest developments with the far-right across the USA & Europe.
David is the author of a fantastic book called "Alt America: The Rise of the Alt-Right in the Age of Trump". You can get a copy here: amzn.to/2PKvY5p and you can listen to our earlier interview with David about his book here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/podcast/#/ep…ge-of-trump/
Our film “The Dry Cleaner” has been released!
Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm
Please support this podcast
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Connect with us here:
]]> Fri, 24 Jan 2020 11:55:44 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/748690186 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: The Spy In Moscow Station https://audioboom.com/posts/7727652 4 3886 false full WELCOME TO EPISODE THIRTY ONE
“The Spy In Moscow Station”
On this months podcast, we are joined by the NSA’s former director of research Eric Haseltine.
We discuss his fantastic book “The Spy In Moscow Station”, which takes a look at an investigation into the suspected bugging of the US Embassy in Moscow.
The book is available at your preferred sites.
You can purchase a copy and support the show via our Amazon links:
(UK) https://amzn.to/2Sg7tOf
(US) https://amzn.to/35NCqNK
Check out the trailer here:
youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
And you can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm
PLEASE SUPPORT THE SHOW
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CONNECT WITH US
]]> Sun, 22 Dec 2019 08:12:23 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/732220612 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Director Chris Carr discusses his spy film The Dry Cleaner https://audioboom.com/posts/7727653 4 5058 false full WELCOME TO EPISODE THIRTY
On this month’s podcast, the tables have turned. Today host Chris Carr will discuss the making of his new spy film “The Dry Cleaner”.
There are some minor spoilers and a little swearing in the discussion (Sorry)
Check out the film trailer here:

youtu.be/j_KFTJenrz4
You can buy the film here:
www.drycleanercast.co.uk/watchthefilm
Huge thank you to Rob Wallis of Electric Shadows podcast for interviewing me. Check out his podcast here: https://www.electric-shadows.com/tag/the-electric-shadows-podcast/
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]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2019 13:14:28 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/694231168 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S4: Tim Tate -- Hitler's British Traitors https://audioboom.com/posts/7727656 4 3487 false full WELCOME TO EPISODE TWENTY NINE
We are joined by author and journalist Tim Tate, and we discuss his fantastic book “Hitler’s British Traitors”, which is quite timely with the 80th anniversary of World War 2 just passing.
You can find out more about Tim at his website: www.timtate.co.uk and connect with him on Twitter www.twitter.com/TimTateBooks

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]]> Fri, 06 Sep 2019 09:03:59 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/677108751 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: My Islam With Angie Gad https://audioboom.com/posts/7727657 3 4625 false full WELCOME TO TWENTY EIGHT
We are joined by Angie Gad and we discuss her website “My Islam”, which she set up to counter Islamic extremist propaganda with a more accurate interpretation of Islam.
You can visit My Islam here: https://www.myislamproject.com/
You can connect with Angie on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/Angieslyst
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]]> Fri, 05 Jul 2019 13:44:15 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/646629804 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: DDAY75 Submarines & Submarine hunters with Iain Ballantyne https://audioboom.com/posts/7727658 3 5275 false full WELCOME TO TWENTY SEVEN
We are joined by Iain Ballantyne, author of “The Deadly Trade: The Complete History of Submarine Warfare”
We discuss the role of Submarines and Submarine Hunters in the build-up to D-Day and their role in an allied victory that lead to the end of World War Two.
In the later section, we talk about veterans we have met and where to see some of the submarines and ships involved in WW2.
IAIN’S LINKS
WEBSITE: IAINBALLANTYNE.COM/
WARSHIPS IFR MAGAZINE: HTTPS://WWW.WARSHIPSIFR.COM/
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VISIT SUBMARINES & SHIPS MENTIONED
HMS ALLIANCE, X24 MIDGET SUB AND MORE (ROYAL NAVY SUBMARINE MUSEUM - UK)
HTTPS://WWW.NMRN.ORG.UK/D-DAY75
TYPE XXI (21) U-BOAT WILHELM BAUER (GERMANY)
HTTPS://U-BOOT-WILHELM-BAUER.DE/EN/
U505 CAPTURED U-BOAT (USA)
HTTPS://WWW.MSICHICAGO.ORG/EXPLORE/WHATS-
HERE/EXHIBITS/U-505-SUBMARINE/
]]> Thu, 06 Jun 2019 07:28:51 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/632512926 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Andrea Chalupa, Discusses Mr Jones Film And Gaslit Nation https://audioboom.com/posts/7727659 3 3212 false full WELCOME TO EPISODE TWENTY-SIX
On this months podcast, we are joined by Andrea Chalupa. Andrea is a writer, author, producer, journalist, and podcaster!
She is the co-creator of the Gaslit Nation podcast and the writer of the feature film “Mr. Jones”. “Mr. Jones” is based on the true story of journalist Gareth Jones, who uncovered the Soviet-engineered famine in 1930’s Ukraine. The famine led to an estimated 7 million deaths and Gareth’s reporting was largely ignored and covered up by Soviet authorities.
On this episode, we discuss the film and its relevance today in the age of Trump.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ANDREA
You can visit her website here: http://www.andreachalupa.com/
CHECK OUT Andrea’s podcast Gaslit Nation
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]]> Fri, 03 May 2019 16:39:08 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/615221145 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: David Neiwert, New Zealand Attacks, Rise Of Far Right https://audioboom.com/posts/7727660 3 5035 false full On this Need to Know special we are joined by Author and Journalist David Neiwert.
David is the author of a fantastic book called "Alt America: The Rise of the Alt-Right in the Age of Trump". You can get a copy here: amzn.to/2PKvY5p and you can listen to our earlier interview with David about his book here: www.drycleanercast.co.uk/podcast/#/ep…ge-of-trump/
Chris & David take a look at the Christchurch massacre in New Zealand. The attack killed 50 people and injured another 50.
We look at the killers far-right links and we also discuss the role of social media in sharing far-right ideology. We also discuss the rise of the Far-Right in the age of Trump.
And we also ask what is Steve Bannon up to in Italy?
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]]> Thu, 18 Apr 2019 15:33:10 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/607905036 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Fred Burton Discusses His Book Beirut Rules https://audioboom.com/posts/7727661 3 2971 false full Welcome to Episode 25 of "The Dry CleanerCast"
On this months podcast, we are joined by Fred Burton.
Fred was the deputy chief of the Counterterrorism division for the State Departments, Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). He is currently the vice president of Stratfor, a strategic intelligence and analysis firm tracking global security and international affairs.
On this episode we discuss Fred's new book “Beirut Rules”, that looks at the 1984 kidnapping and murder of CIA station William Buckley.
You can purchase "Beirut Rules" via our Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/2FMDVks
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]]> Sun, 31 Mar 2019 09:29:45 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/598684479 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Anti Semitism on the British Left with Dave Rich https://audioboom.com/posts/7727662 3 3472 false full EPISODE TWENTY FOUR: DAVE RICH, ANTI-SEMITISM ON THE BRITISH LEFT
On this episode, we are joined by author Dave Rich, who wrote the book “The Left’s Jewish Problem: Jeremy Corbyn, Israel, and Anti-Semitism”
You can buy the book here: https://amzn.to/2Sf5kyx
Dave Rich is an Associate Research Fellow at the Pears Institute for the Study of Anti-Semitism, Birkbeck College, University of London, where he was awarded his PhD in 2015. He works at the Community Security Trust (CST), for whom he briefs ministers, MPs, civil servants and police officers about antisemitism.
The Community Security Trust (CST) is a British charity established in 1994 to ensure the safety and security of the Jewish community in the UK. You can find out more about the important work they do here: https://cst.org.uk/
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]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2019 06:00:25 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/579096363 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Need To Know - Malcolm Nance looking at Brexit & Russia https://audioboom.com/posts/7727663 3 3063 false full Malcolm Nance is back!
On this special episode of “Need To Know”, Malcolm joins us to discuss Russia’s connection to the far-right and the Ultra-Left in Europe, USA, and the UK. We take a look at Russia’s connection to Brexit, the Scottish referendum and the 2016 US Elections.
Malcolm Nance is an American author and media commentator on terrorism, intelligence, insurgency, and torture. He is a former United States Navy senior chief petty officer specializing in naval cryptology.
Malcolm is the author of several books including the New York Times bestseller “The Plot to Hack America” and his latest book “The Plot to Destroy Democracy”. He is also the Counter-Terrorism and Russia analyst on MSNBC and NBC News.
You can purchase “The Plot to Destroy Democracy” here: https://amzn.to/2Nkbqx3
NATO Handbook on Russian information warfare
http://www.ndc.nato.int/news/news.php?icode=995
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And for more information about the podcast and the short film “The Dry Cleaner” go to our website: www.drycleanercast.co.uk
]]> Mon, 18 Feb 2019 21:14:15 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/577534032 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Need To Know - South China Seas https://audioboom.com/posts/7727664 3 3472 false full NEED TO KNOW: SOUTH CHINA SEAS WITH IAIN BALLANTYNE
THIS IS OUR FIRST PODCAST OF 2019!
On this episode of “Need To Know” we are joined we are joined by Author Iain Ballantyne and we discuss the situation in the South China Seas. We also look at developments in anti-ship and submarine weapons. We also ponder on the future of NATO and it’s importance.
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]]> Sat, 26 Jan 2019 11:54:45 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/564876690 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Farhana Qazi, Invisible Martyrs https://audioboom.com/posts/7727667 3 3580 false full WELCOME TO EPISODE TWENTY THREE!
On this episode, we are joined by author of “Invisible Martyrs” Farhana Qazi. Farhana was the first Muslim woman to have worked with the US Governments Counterterrorism Centre and she has been fascinated with the question of why some women turned to violence. Over the last decade, she has been on a global quest searching for an answer.
On this episode, Farhana tells us what she has discovered.
You can purchase her book "Invisible Martyrs" here: https://amzn.to/2zB0GVb
For more information about Farhana, please visit her Website: http://farhanaqazi.com/
You can connect with her on Twitter https://twitter.com/farhanaqazi and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/farhanaqaziauthor
CONNECT WITH US
TWITTER
https://twitter.com/DryCleanerCast
]]> Fri, 30 Nov 2018 07:37:23 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/537646212 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Need To Know, Incel Movement, Alt Right And Violence https://audioboom.com/posts/7727668 3 3118 false full On this Need to Know special we are joined by Author and Journalist David Neiwert.
Chris & David take a look at the growing Incel movement, its threats and use of violence against women and its connection to the Alt-Right.
On this episode, we also discuss the MAGA Bomber, the Pittsburg Synagog shooting and the Tallahassee yoga shooting.
David is the author of a fantastic book called "Alt America: The Rise of the Alt-Right in the Age of Trump". You can get a copy here: https://amzn.to/2PKvY5p and you can listen to our earlier interview with David about his book here: https://www.drycleanercast.co.uk/podcast/#/episode-eighteen-david-neiwert-alt-america-radical-right-in-age-of-trump/
]]> Fri, 09 Nov 2018 21:54:25 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/527373288 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Robert F. Delaney discussing China and his book "The Wounded Muse" https://audioboom.com/posts/7727669 3 3130 false full EPISODE TWENTY TWO: ROBERT F. DELANEY, THE WOUNDED MUSE & CHINA
On this episode we are joined by author and journalist Robert F. Delany and we discuss the inspiration behind his new China set book “The Wounded Muse”
You can connect with Robert on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RFDelaney
This is our first podcast to take a look at China and Chinese espionage. We intend to create more episodes in 2019 looking further at China on the world stage.
You can buy "Wounded Muse" here: https://amzn.to/2CXcuU7
]]> Fri, 02 Nov 2018 08:34:01 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/523643133 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Amy Knight - Russian Intelligence & Political Murder https://audioboom.com/posts/7727670 3 3630 false full EPISODE TWENTY ONE: AMY KNIGHT - RUSSIAN INTELLIGENCE & POLITICAL MURDER
WE ARE JOINED BY AUTHOR & JOURNALIST AMY KNIGHT TO DISCUSS RUSSIAN INTELLIGENCE AND POLITICAL MURDER
AMY WAS DESCRIBED BY THE NEW YORK TIMES AS "THE WEST'S FOREMOST SCHOLAR" OF THE KGB. SHE IS THE AUTHOR OF A NUMBER OF BOOKS SUCH AS “HOW THE COLD WAR BEGAN”, “THE KREMLIN’S GREATEST MYSTERY” AND MORE RECENTLY “ORDERS TO KILL”.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT AMY PLEASE VISIT HER WEBSITE: HTTP://AMYKNIGHT.ORG/
TO BUY A COPY OF "ORDERS TO KILL" CLICK HERE:https://amzn.to/2N6aWsA
CONNECT WITH US
TWITTER
https://twitter.com/DryCleanerCast
]]> Fri, 28 Sep 2018 06:16:20 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/506365374 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S3: Need To Know - Salisbury Poisoning Revisited & Sonic Attacks With Fred Burton https://audioboom.com/posts/7727671 3 2747 false full “The Dry CleanerCast” is back!
We kick off with a special episode of “Need to Know”.
On this episode, we are joined by former State Department Counterterrorism Agent and Author Fred Burton.
We discuss the latest information on the Salisbury poisoning case and we also look at the series of Sonic attacks against US embassies and embassy staff in Cuba and China.
Fred was the deputy chief of the Counterterrorism division for the State Departments, Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). He is currently the vice president of Stratfor, a strategic intelligence and analysis firm tracking global security and international affairs.
Fred is also the author of a number of fantastic books, we discuss "Chasing Shadows" and "Ghost: Confessions of a Counterterrorism Officer".
Fred has a new book out on 25th October called “Beirut Rules: The Murder of a CIA Station Chief and Hezbollah's War Against America”
You can pre-order the book at Amazon here: https://amzn.to/2QOGl5O
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON FRED
Visit Stratfor: www.stratfor.com
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CONNECT WITH US
And visit our website: www.drycleanercast.co.uk
]]> Fri, 21 Sep 2018 13:33:43 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/503087619 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Ian Fleming With Jeremy Duns https://audioboom.com/posts/7727673 2 4359 false full EPISODE TWENTY: IAN FLEMING, LIFE & LEGACY WITH JEREMY DUNS
Welcome to Episode twenty!
On this months episode we take a look at the life & legacy of James Bond creator Ian Fleming.
We are joined by author and journalist Jeremy Duns who has written a new short ebook called “Agent of Influence: Anthony Terry and the shaping of Cold War fact and fiction”.
“Agent of Influence” reveals that during the Cold War, while he was writing the James Bond novels, Ian Fleming was working for MI6. It's a detailed analysis of how an MI6 operative called Antony Terry, working as a correspondent at the Sunday Times, fed Fleming information for his novels - it also explores Terry's interactions with John le Carre and Frederick Forsyth, declassifying his major impact on spy fiction. The short also explores how MI6 used the British press during the Cold War, following on from Jeremy Duns, 2013 Radio 4 documentary MI6 and the Media.
For more information on "AGENT OF INFLUENCE"
Go to: http://www.jeremy-duns.com/agentofinfluence
CONNECT WITH US
TWITTER
https://twitter.com/DryCleanerCast
]]> Mon, 02 Jul 2018 07:51:51 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/466185876 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Discussing "Prevent" with Sean Arbuthnot and William Baldet https://audioboom.com/posts/7727674 2 4977 false full On this month’s podcast we are looking at Prevent.
Prevent is name given to the UK governments Countering Violent Extremism programme.
“Prevent is about safeguarding people and communities from the threat of terrorism. Prevent is 1 of the 4 elements of CONTEST, the Government's counter-terrorism strategy. It aims to stop people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.” (https://www.ltai.info/what-is-prevent/)
On the podcast we are joined by two Prevent practitioners Sean Arbuthnot and William Baldet to discuss how it works and the wider context of the programme.
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]]> Mon, 28 May 2018 08:42:44 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/450148614 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: David Neiwert, discussing "Alt America & Rise Of The Radical Right" https://audioboom.com/posts/7727675 2 6497 false full EPISODE EIGHTEEN
On this months podcast we are joined by author and investigative journalist David Neiwert.
David has spent the majority of his career researching and documenting the far right in America. He is currently a correspondent for the Southern Poverty Law Centre and author of the book "Alt America: The Rise of the Radical Right in the age of Trump".
On this episode we discuss the rise of the radical right into the American political mainstream. We look at Conspiracy culture and we also discuss Chris's past as a conspiracy theorist and how he got himself out of that mindset.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DAVID NEIWERT
You can visit David's website here: dneiwert.blogspot.co.uk/
WRITING COURSE
Writing or producing a military drama like The Last Post or Our Girl? Making an espionage series to rival Spooks?
Rossa McPhillips MBE, a former soldier in British military intelligence, is offering a one-day course to writers, directors and producers on the facts about the armed forces, its culture, traditions and how it operates overseas in conflict zones from a first-hand perspective. The course will also open a door on the closed world of the intelligence services. Course participants will get the opportunity to see what the role of an intelligence officer is really like, as they take part in a realistic conflict simulation exercise where they must make quick decisions based on disparate intelligence data to prevent a hypothetical terrorist attack.
Email Rossa for more information: rossa.mcphillips@googlemail.com
Venue: Royal Holloway, University of London, 11 Bedford Square, London WC1B 3R
Date: 30th June 2018 (10am–6pm)
Price: £85, £75 Concessions
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CONNECT WITH US
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]]> Fri, 27 Apr 2018 15:50:19 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/436028571 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Need To Know - Strikes against Syria With Iain Ballantyne https://audioboom.com/posts/7727676 2 1877 false full NEED TO KNOW: STRIKES AGAINST SYRIA WITH IAIN BALLANTYNE
On 7th April there was a chemical attack against civilians in Douma, Syria. 70 people were reportedly killed and 1,000 people suffered effects from the attack. The bombs in question were suspected to be filled with chemical munitions such as chlorine gas and Sarin.
As with previous incidents of this nature, France, the UK and US governments accused the Syrian government as being responsible. French, UK and US forces launched joint strikes against targets on 14th April despite threats from the Russian government to retaliate against any strikes to their interests in Syria.
On this episode of "Need to Know" we are joined by Author Iain Ballantyne and we discuss the strikes against Syria and the wider implications of those strikes from a naval perspective.
CONNECT WITH US
TWITTER
https://twitter.com/DryCleanerCast
Writing Course
Writing or producing a military drama like The Last Post or Our Girl? Making an espionage series to rival Spooks?
Rossa McPhillips MBE, a former soldier in British military intelligence, is offering a one-day course to writers, directors and producers on the facts about the armed forces, its culture, traditions and how it operates overseas in conflict zones from a first-hand perspective. The course will also open a door on the closed world of the intelligence services. Course participants will get the opportunity to see what the role of an intelligence officer is really like, as they take part in a realistic conflict simulation exercise where they must make quick decisions based on disparate intelligence data to prevent a hypothetical terrorist attack.
Email Rossa for more information: rossa.mcphillips@googlemail.com
Venue: Royal Holloway, University of London, 11 Bedford Square, London WC1B 3R
10am–6pm, Dates TBC
Price: £85, £75 Concessions
]]> Wed, 25 Apr 2018 19:15:55 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/435110856 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Need To Know - Salisbury Poisoning With Jeremy Duns https://audioboom.com/posts/7727677 2 4524 false full NEED TO KNOW: SALISBURY POISONING WITH JEREMY DUNS
The world is turning into a plot line from a Cold War novel, so we thought that it may be a good idea to chat with a Cold War novelist to try and make sense of it all.
So on today’s episode of “Need to Know” we are joined by author Jeremy Duns, who has written a number of Cold War based novels as well as books on contemporary issues such as the coverage of the Edward Snowden revelations back in 2013.
On this episode will have a look at a few stories that have caught our eye from the Salisbury poisoning and the reaction to it.
For show notes and links to what we discuss please visit our website: www.drycleanercast.co.uk
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CONNECT WITH US
]]> Sat, 07 Apr 2018 10:03:03 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/426093006 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Need To Know - Salisbury Poisoning And Austin Parcel Bombings With Fred Burton https://audioboom.com/posts/7727678 2 2578 false full NEED TO KNOW: SALISBURY POISONING WITH FRED BURTON
On Sunday 4th March, 2018, a former Russian Intelligence officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found on a bench in a catatonic state in the town of Salisbury. It has subsequently been found that the pair were poisoned.
On this episode of "Need to Know" we are joined by former State Department Counterterrorism Agent and Author Fred Burton.
We discuss the Salisbury poisoning, how professional assassins operate, and we ask who else could have been a target? We also have a look at the recent Austin Parcel Bombing case in Austin Texas.
Fred was the deputy chief of the Counterterrorism devision for the State Departments, Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). He is currently the vice president of Stratfor, a strategic intelligence and analysis firm tracking global security and international affairs. Fred is also the author of a number of fantastic books, we discuss "Chasing Shadows" and "Ghost: Confessions of a Counterterrorism Officer".
]]> Sat, 31 Mar 2018 10:11:25 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/422720244 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Need To Know Salisbuy Poisoning, British & Russian Submarines With Iain Ballantyne https://audioboom.com/posts/7727679 2 1990 false full NEED TO KNOW: SALISBURY POISONING WITH IAIN BALLANTYNE
On Sunday 4th March, 2018, a former Russian Intelligence officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found on a bench in a catatonic state in the town of Salisbury. It has subsequently been found that the pair were poisoned.
On this episode of "Need to Know" we are joined by Author Iain Ballantyne. We discuss how our submarine forces used to be a deterrent to hostile Russian military activity and how defence cuts have made us weaker in the eyes of the Kremlin.
]]> Fri, 30 Mar 2018 15:39:59 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/422365083 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Need To Know - Sergei Skripal And The Salisbury Poisoning With Edward Lucas https://audioboom.com/posts/7727680 2 1286 false full On Sunday 4th March, 2018, a former Russian Intelligence officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found on a bench in a catatonic state in the town of Salisbury. It has subsequently been found that the pair were poisoned.
On this episode of "Need to Know" we are joined by Author and Journalist Edward Lucas. We discuss the poisoning, its context and why Russia is the main suspect in this assassination attempt that happened in broad daylight on the streets of Great Britain.
You can find out more about Edward Lucas and connect with him via his website: http://www.edwardlucas.com/
If you like the work we are doing on the podcast, please become a Patreon subscriber by going to: https://www.patreon.com/DryCleanerCast
You can connect with us on
]]> Sat, 24 Mar 2018 20:39:06 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/419111904 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Fred Burton, the DSS And Pre 9/11 Counter Terrorism https://audioboom.com/posts/7727681 2 3284 false full On this months podcast we are joined by Fred Burton.
Fred was the deputy chief of the Counterterrorism devision for the State Departments, Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). He is currently the vice president of Stratfor, a strategic intelligence and analysis firm tracking global security and international affairs.
Fred is also the author of a number of fantastic books, we discuss "Chasing Shadows" and "Ghost: Confessions of a Counterterrorism Officer".
On this episode we discuss Fred's career at the DSS, the terrorist scene pre 9/11 and a cold case that stayed with him after retiring from the DSS.
If you like what we are doing please support the show by becoming a subscriber. Go to www.patreon.com/drycleanercast
For more information visit our website: www.drycleanercast.co.uk
Connect with us on Twitter @DryCleanerCast
]]> Thu, 22 Feb 2018 20:00:45 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/403643991 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Todd Leventhal - Cold War Russian Active Measures https://audioboom.com/posts/7727682 2 3872 false full On this month’s podcast, we are joined by Todd Leventhal who was the State Departments sole counter-misinformation officer in the last years of the Cold War from 1987 through until 2010.
We discuss Russian Cold War era "Active Measures"
If you enjoy the show please visit our website: www.drycleanercast.co.uk
]]> Fri, 19 Jan 2018 18:01:21 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/386069792 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: The Rage - The vicious circle of Islamist and Far-Right extremism https://audioboom.com/posts/7727683 2 3861 false full On Episode 15 we interview author Julia Ebner who has written a fantastic book called “The Rage” that looks at the relationship between Islamist extremists and the Western Far Right.
If you like the work we are doing please support this podcast by becoming a Patreon subscriber today by going to www.patreon.com/drycleanercast
You can join in the discussion by connecting with us on Twitter. Go to: www.twitter.com/drycleanercast
For more information about the podcast and to listen to past episodes please visit our website: www.drycleanercast.co.uk
Thanks for listening
All the best
Chris
]]> Fri, 15 Dec 2017 10:59:08 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/369877979 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: The Battle For British Islam https://audioboom.com/posts/7727684 2 2048 false full On this months podcast, we are joined by journalist and author Tony McMahon. We discuss his book "The Battle for British Islam" which he co-authored with Sara Khan.
For more information about the work Sara and Tony do please visit: https://wewillinspire.com/
If you like the work we are doing please support this podcast by becoming a Patreon subscriber today by going to www.patreon.com/drycleanercast
You can join in the discussion by connecting with us on Twitter. Go to: www.twitter.com/drycleanercast
For more information about the podcast and to listen to past episodes please visit our website: www.drycleanercast.co.uk
Thanks for listening
All the best
Chris
]]> Fri, 24 Nov 2017 11:43:22 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/360274850 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Discussing Moscow Gold, The Soviet Union & the British left https://audioboom.com/posts/7727685 2 4831 false full It's the 100th Anniversary of the Bolshevik "October Revolution", so this month we have recorded a special on the complex relationship between the Soviet Union and the British Left.
We are joined by authors Paul Anderson & Kevin Davey to discuss their book "Moscow Gold".
If you like what we are doing please support the show by connecting with us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/drycleanercast
This show is independently made, please support us by becoming a subscriber at Patreon by going to www.patreon.com/DryCleanerCast
]]> Mon, 16 Oct 2017 18:58:01 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/347181477 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Need To Know- Episode Two - North Korea, Parsons Green, Barcelona Attack And More- https://audioboom.com/posts/7727686 2 5036 false full On this episode we will be looking at events that took place between July and September 2017.
Anthony Ruggiero from the Foundation for Defence of Democracies joins us to discuss North Korea for the first half.
Then we are joined by former Counter Terrorism Detective and Author, David Videcette, to discuss the Barcelona attacks and the failed Parson's Green tube bombing.
If you enjoyed the show please support us by becoming a subscriber on Patreon by going to www.patreon.com/drycleanercast
]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2017 05:07:54 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/345587608 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S2: Submarines for espionage & trident for nuclear defence - With Iain Ballantyne https://audioboom.com/posts/7727687 2 4633 false full The Dry CleanerCast returns after a short summer break.
This month we go Nuclear on "The Dry CleanerCast".
We just hope your bunker has wifi.
We are joined by Iain Ballantyne, author of "Hunter Killers: The Dramatic Untold Story of the Royal Navy's Most Secret Service".
We discuss the use of submarines for espionage and nuclear defense. We also dive into dangerous waters disusing the renewal of Trident, the Royal Navy's nuclear deterrent.
If the podcast is not enough we have also created a submarine inspired playlist for you on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/…/…/playlist/6weE1SU0plFFxUaJiOqOEd
You can find out more about Iain Ballantyne, here: http://iainballantyne.com/
If you enjoy our podcast please connect with us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DryCleanerCast
And please support the show by becoming a subscriber at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DryCleanerCast
]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2017 09:16:17 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/343514075 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Need To Know- Episode One - Terrorist Attacks, Manchester, London, Paris. https://audioboom.com/posts/7727688 1 3765 false full The "Dry CleanerCast" presents "Need to Know"
"Need To Know" is a new quarterly podcast featuring conversations with security experts focused on the terrorism and intelligence stories dominating the headlines.
On this episode of "Need to Know" host Chris Carr is joined by former CIA officer Yaya J. Fanusie. Chris and Yaya discuss the recent terrorist attacks that occurred in Manchester, London and Paris between April - June 2017 and the wider issues that surround these attacks.
Yaya has recently published an article titled "How to neutralise the violent Jihadist pull"
You can view it here: http://muslimmatters.org/2017/07/12/how-to-neutralize-the-violent-jihadist-pull/
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]]> Sat, 15 Jul 2017 22:54:55 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/333364940 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Dr William Matchett Special Branch And The Intelligence War Against The IRA https://audioboom.com/posts/7727689 1 4257 false full On this months "The Dry CleanerCast" we are joined by former Special Branch Officer, Dr William Matchett. We discuss his book "Secret Victory: The Intelligence War That Beat The IRA".
If you enjoy the podcast please support us by subscribing to our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/DryCleanerCast
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]]> Fri, 19 May 2017 07:18:42 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/323352849 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Peter Bleksley Undercover Policing, The War On Drugs, Organised Crime And Hunted https://audioboom.com/posts/7727690 1 5206 false full On Episode 10 of "The Dry CleanerCast" we are joined by former London Met Detective Peter Bleksley.
Peter was one of the Met's top undercover detectives during the 1980's to the Mid 1990's. We discuss what it is like to work undercover, the war on drugs and the wider issue surrounding drugs and the illegal drugs trade.
We also discuss Peter's work in television on "Hunted", "Guerrilla" and "Murphy's Law".
]]> Fri, 07 Apr 2017 10:31:45 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/316544982 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Brian Dunning from SKEPTOID discussing Fake News, Conspiracy Theories And Alternative Facts https://audioboom.com/posts/7727691 1 4248 false full On Episode 09 of "The Dry CleanerCast" we are joined by fellow podcaster Brian Dunning of "Skeptoid".
Brian & Chris discuss Conspiracy Theories, Alternative Facts & Fake News. They also discuss what to do if a friend or family member has become a conspiracy theorist.
]]> Fri, 17 Mar 2017 18:16:52 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/312988780 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Edward Lucas discussing Russia & Russian Espionage https://audioboom.com/posts/7727692 1 3488 false full On this months "The Dry CleanerCast" we are joined by author & journalist Edward Lucas. We discuss Edward's book "Deception" which provides much needed insight into Russia & Russian Espionage.
Don't forget you can get a free copy of "Deception" and a 30 day free trial through Audible using our our link www.audibletrial.com/drycleanercast
]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 08:48:37 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/308179850 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Dr Vince Houghton, International Spy Museum, Washington DC https://audioboom.com/posts/7727693 1 3333 false full On this months "Dry CleanerCast" we are joined by Dr Vince Houghton from the International Spy Museum in Washington DC. We discuss the museum and its history and we look ahead to see what 2017 has in store for the world of espionage. We also talk nukes at the beginning. Why not start the year with a bang :)]]> Thu, 19 Jan 2017 22:54:14 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/303567838 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: David Videcette - Former Counter Terrorism Detective London Met https://audioboom.com/posts/7727694 1 3797 false full On Episode 6 we are joined by David Videcette.
David was a counterterrorism detective for the Metropolitan Police Service in London. He was involved in the investigation of the 7/7 London Bombings and the failed 21/7 Bombings.
He is now an author and he has released a novel "The Theseus Paradox" which is a fictional account of the investigation into the London bombings.
]]> Fri, 23 Dec 2016 23:46:11 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/299363990 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Malcolm Nance - The Plot To Hack America https://audioboom.com/posts/7727695 1 2842 false full On episode 5 of "The Dry CleanerCast" we are joined by author and former US intelligence officer Malcolm Nance. We discuss the alleged Russian plot to hack and disrupt the 2016 US Presidential Election.]]> Sun, 18 Dec 2016 22:27:12 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/298526996 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Shiraz Maher discussing "Salafi Jihadism: The history of an idea" https://audioboom.com/posts/7727696 1 3225 false full We are joined by author Shiraz Maher and discuss the roots of Salafi Jihadism.]]> Mon, 12 Dec 2016 07:07:10 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/297496836 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Yaya J Fanusie - Former CIA Officer on Islam & Counterterrorism https://audioboom.com/posts/7727697 1 4949 false full On Episode Three of "The Dry CleanerCast"
Former CIA officer Yaya J. Fanusie talks to us about Islam and counterterrorism.
Follow us on Twitter @DryCleanerCast
]]> Fri, 11 Nov 2016 22:19:42 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/292615572 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Paddy Hayes - Spy Trade Craft https://audioboom.com/posts/7727698 1 1843 false full On Episode Two of "The Dry CleanerCast" we discuss the need and function of intelligence and what makes a good spy with author Paddy Hayes.]]> Tue, 11 Oct 2016 18:19:13 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/287192267 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies S1: Meredith Tax - The Double Bind, The Islamic Right and the Anglo American Left https://audioboom.com/posts/7727699 1 2884 false full Episode 1: Meredith Tax
In the first half of the show host Chris Carr discusses the problematic relationship between Anglo American left and the Muslim right with author Meredith Tax. Later in the podcast they discuss the role of Kurdish women in the fight against ISIS.]]> Thu, 08 Sep 2016 19:05:36 +0000 tag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/281998445 Secrets & Spies Secrets & Spies