SPYCRAFT 101
By Justin Black & VN Studios
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Category: History
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Subscribers: 64
Reviews: 2
Sony
Dec 7, 2021
love this podcast! love how he's able to speak to these former spies or authors and how informative he is
Nick S
Jun 12, 2021
Absolutely loving this podcast, cool information from people who have done it!
Description
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81. Espionage In Ancient Rome with Colonel Rose Mary Sheldon
3710
This week Justin is joined by Colonel Rose Mary Sheldon, previous history professor at Virginia Military Institute world-renowned expert on intelligence and espionage in the ancient world. She earned her PhD from the University of Michigan and has published several books and many articles over the years, as well as serving as an editor for the International Journal of Intelligence and Counterintelligence, Small Wars and Insurgencies, and The Journal of Military History. Today, she discusses intelligence collection tactics and strategy in Ancient Rome. Use your forces to attack opponents and defend yourself in this new card game. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Jan 30, 2023 |
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80. The President, The Prosecutor, and The Spy with Justin Webster
3589
Today Justin speaks with with journalist and documentary filmmaker Justin Webster. Justin was a business reporter in the 90s before the release of his debut film on soccer team FC Barcelona in 2004. Since then, he's directed several more award-winning documentaries. Today he's here to discuss a six part series he created on the life and death of Alberto Nisman, a federal prosecutor in Argentina who was found dead at home in January, 2015. Nisman died hours before he was scheduled to testify on a 1994 antisemitic terrorist attack in Buenos Aires that killed dozens and wounded hundreds more, implicating Argentinian President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner in covering up supposed Iranian involvement. |
Jan 23, 2023 |
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79. An NSA Spy Unknown for Decades with John Whiteside
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Today Justin sits down with author and retired FBI special agent John Whiteside III. Since leaving the FBI after working 30 years of Cold War counterintelligence cases, John has worked as a private investigator and as a government consultant. Today, John discusses one of the highest profile cases of his career: the discovery and arrest of Robert Steven Lipka. Lipka was an Army solider assigned to the NSA who spent the mid 60s passing classified documents to the Soviet government. His acts of espionage weren't uncovered until 1992. when an investigative tip surfaced from a completely unexpected source, leading John and his fellow investigators into a lenghty investigation until they finally put Lipka under arrest. Your new favorite fragrance is here. I'm partial to Novochoc. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Jan 16, 2023 |
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78. The Spy Who Divided the CIA with Howard Blum
2454
This week, Justin brings on journalist and author Howard Blum. Howard studied at Stanford University where he received both his bachelor's and master's degree and has worked as a reporter for the New York Times where he was nominated twice for the Pulitzer Prize. More recently, he was a contributing editor for Vanity Fair. He's also the author of several best selling non-fiction books, several of which have been optioned for films. |
Jan 09, 2023 |
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77. Answering More of Your Espionage Questions
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This week, Justin answers questions you've submitted via Instagram. He dives into the deaths of Spanish espionage agents in Iraq and covers the story an American revolutionary. Tune in to hear about the weapons real spies carry every day, how Hollywood adapts real espionage events, and more. Keep a look out on Instagram for your next chance to submit your biggest questions about clandestine work. Your new favorite fragrance is here. I'm partial to Novochoc. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Jan 02, 2023 |
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76. Death and the Dangers of Clandestine Work
3374
In this solo episode, Justin dives into some of the most intriguing and suspicious deaths related to espionage in the last 80 years. While the USA and the USSR never saw combat with each other during the Cold War, their clandestine operations resulted in many casualties and fatalities over the years. Apparent suicides, murders without explanation, and plane crashes abound. Some of these deaths appear straightforward, but become suspicious when an informed eye takes a closer look. Use your forces to attack opponents and defend yourself in this new card game. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Dec 26, 2022 |
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75. An International CIA Pilot with Lee Gossett
3473
This week, Justin has his first repeat guest. Lee Gossett is back to talk CIA missions. Lee first joined us for episode 13. In his last episode, Lee and Justin dove into Lee's time as a smoker jumper and the years he spent working for Air America in the Secret War in Laos, and this time Lee is sharing stories of his time flying all over the world for the CIA after Air America went under. From Laos to El Salvador, Columbia, Honduras, and more, Lee has seen it all and lived to tell the tale. Use your forces to attack opponents and defend yourself in this new card game. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Dec 19, 2022 |
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74. The Most Dangerous Year on Earth with Brian Morra
5382
This week, Justin chats with author and Air Force intelligence veteran Brian Morra. Brian was an intelligence officer in the US Air Force and Air Force Reserve for 15 years before shifting his focus to the aerospace and defense industry, where he spent many years managing intelligence programs. Brian finally retired as a senior Vice President at the end of 2016 and began writing his debut novel. Today, we focus on a pivotal event that took place 1983, what some historians call the most dangerous year on Earth. This a little-known Soviet fiasco brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. Brian's book, The Able Archers, covers this event and his real experience as a young intelligence officer dealing with its repercussions in real time. Use your forces to attack opponents and defend yourself in this new card game. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Dec 12, 2022 |
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73. The Truth about Snowden with Anonymous
4297
Today Justin sits down with anonymous source known as Sarah. Use your forces to attack opponents and defend yourself in this new card game. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Dec 05, 2022 |
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72. An Activist Escaping Panama with Kimberly Muse
5761
This week, Justin speaks with Kimberly Muse, daughter of Kurt Muse. Kim grew up in Panama, where her father was became the leader of a group of activists in protesting against General Manuel Noriega via radio transmissions. Their work caught the attention of the CIA, and they even received support from the agency for their efforts. Use your forces to attack opponents and defend yourself in this new card game. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Nov 28, 2022 |
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71. Tracking Down an Iraqi Bioweapons Expert with Stephen Monteiro
4005
This week Justin sits down with former police officer, Navy officer, and US Secret Service special agent Stephen Monteiro. Steve spent 20 years in the Secret Service, where he was a member of the Presidential Protective Division at the Clinton White House, among other assignments. |
Nov 21, 2022 |
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70. Demoralize and Deceive: OSS Psychological Warfare with Ann Todd
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This week, Justin sits down with historian and author Ann Todd. From working at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, Virginia, to writing and consulting for the National Geographic Society and giving presentations for the National Park Service on the history of the OSS, Ann is an expert. Use your forces to attack opponents and defend yourself in this new card game. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Nov 14, 2022 |
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69. A Scottish Civilian Up Against a Nazi Spy Ring with Dr. Andrew Jeffrey
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Today, Justin sits down with author and researcher, Dr. Andrew Jeffrey. Alongside his historical books, Andrew has made on-air contributions for British, Dutch and French documentaries and is a former Royal Navy Reservist, and a volunteer Lifeboatman with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Andrew's latest book tells the tale of a Scottish civilian Mary Curran, who spotted the suspicious activity of Nazi spy Jessie Jordan. Mary's quick wit, alertness, and instincts broke down a long established espionage network spanning both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Your new favorite fragrance is here. I'm partial to Novochoc. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Nov 07, 2022 |
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68. A CIA Traitor's Last Asset with Bryan Denson
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This week, Justin chats with investigative reporter and author Bryan Denson. Focusing on true crime, scandals, and government corruption, Bryan has spent his career reporting for publications like The House Post, Reader's Digest, Newsweek, The Los Angeles Tomes, and the Oregonian. He's also written three nonfiction book series on infamous criminals like Aldrich Ames and the Unibomber, as well as other historical nonfiction. Today, Bryan and Justin discuss the story of notorious CIA traitor Jim Nicholson--and how he trained his son Nathan from behind bars to finish his work. Your new favorite fragrance is here. I'm partial to Novochoc. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Oct 31, 2022 |
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67. TRIGON: The Hero Who Betrayed the Soviet Union with Alejandra Suárez Ogorodnik
4227
This week, Justin chats with Alejandra Suárez Barcala Ogorodnik. Alejandra was born in Madrid in 1975 and currently works in Spain in the medical industry as a disease area specialist. She never knew her father growing up, and her mother told her he was a German mathematician who was killed in an automobile accident when Alejandra was a baby. When she was a teenager, she slowly began to uncover and unravel the truth of her father's identity--and what happened to him. |
Oct 24, 2022 |
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66. The Early Days of FBI Counterintelligence with Raymond Batvinis
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Today, Justin sits down with retired FBI special agent Raymond J. Batvinis, who served in the FBI for 25 years, from 1972 until 1997. Raymond worked primarily in counterterrorism and counterintelligence, and shortly after the 9/11 attacks, he returned to teach the Basic Counterintelligence course at the FBI Academy at Quantico. Your new favorite fragrance is here. I'm partial to Novochoc. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Oct 17, 2022 |
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65. Killing Castro: The Unlikely Alliance between the CIA and the Mob with Thomas Maier
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This week, Juston sits down with Thomas Maier. Thomas is an author and award-winning investigative journalist, having worked at NewDay since 1984. He has also written several historical books, including When Lions Roar about the Churchills and the Kennedys, and Masters of Sex, which was produced as a series on Showtime for four years. His latest book, Mafia Spies, details the inside story the inside story of the relationship between several senior figures in organized crime in the early 1960s and members of the Central Intelligence Agency who wanted Fidel Castro dead, as well as their unlikely and temporary alliance. Your new favorite fragrance is here. I'm partial to Novochoc. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show |
Oct 10, 2022 |
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64. The OSS, Uranium in the Congo, and the Atom Bomb with Kathryn Hogue
6099
This week Justin sits down with Kathy Hogue, daughter of World War II OSS agent Doc Hogue. Her father's service includes one of the most important and least understood missions of WWII--the mining of the uranium that built the atomic bomb. Kathy herself is also very accomplished, having worked for the Department of Defense for over a decade, enrolled at the US Navy Postgraduate School, and worked for a private firm doing research for the Pentagon. She brings a uniquely educated inside perspective to her father's work thanks to family stories, documents, and her own experience in the national defense. |
Oct 03, 2022 |
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63. Thwarting Lenin's Global Communist Plot with Giles Milton
4295
This week, Justin sits down with author and historian Giles Milton. A fellow of the Royal Historical Society in London, Giles has written 11 nonfiction books and three novels. Today, they focus on his book Russian Roulette to tell the story of the British MI6 spies who stopped Lenin from spreading the communism on a truly global scale after the Bolshevik Revolution. |
Sep 26, 2022 |
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62. The Pinkterons: Notorious Thugs, Detectives, and Spies with Dr. Paul O'Hara
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This week, Justin chats with Dr. Paul. O'Hara. Paul is an associate professor at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, teaching a wide range of compelling history courses. Paul and Justin discuss the Pinkerton Detective Agency, the most famous and most notorious detective agency in us history. From its origins to its scandals, near downfalls, and recent activities, The Pinkertons have helped shape American history from antebellum to the modern day. Much of what's covered today take place in the mid and late 1800s, but the Pinkertons are still around. |
Sep 19, 2022 |
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61. Solving the Murder of a CIA Case Officer with Michael Pullara
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This week, Justin sits down with trial lawyer Michael Pullara. Michael has faced formidable foes in the court room, from the US Department of Defense to criminals with connections to the Italian mob. But today, Michael and Justin discuss the case of CIA case officer Freddie Woodruff, who was shot and killed on assignment in the former Soviet Republic of Georgia. Michael knew Freddie's family and began investigating his implausible situation on their behalf, but soon became determined to uncover the truth. In 10 years of research, ventures overseas, and deep digging, Michael uncovered deception at the hands of Georgian authorities whose reports on the incident were entirely false. He even confronted the president of Georgia himself. Finally, in 2018, Michael published a book about Freddie's unfortunate fate--and the truth. |
Sep 12, 2022 |
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60. Flying for the CIA: a Continental Air Services Contractor with Toby Scott
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Spycraft 101 is back! |
Sep 05, 2022 |
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An Important Spycraft 101 Announcement
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This week, Justin releases a quick public service announcement to let listeners know of a short upcoming hiatus. |
Aug 22, 2022 |
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59. Honey Traps: Seduction as Espionage with Henry Schlesinger
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This week, Justin talks with author Henry Schlesinger on the topic of a notorious espionage strategy: the honey traps. Honey traps utilized seduction, from male or female spies, to glean information, create scandal, or acquire money. They've been used in intelligence for centuries--perhaps even millennia. Henry shares several stories of some of the mist influential espionage seductions in history, from femme fatales to purposeful scandals designed to distract the public. |
Aug 15, 2022 |
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58. Spies In the Space Race
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In this episode, Justin describes espionage activity in the decades-long race to the stars between the United States and the Soviet Union. The two superpowers devoted significant time, resources, and manpower to outshining each other in technological advancement in aerospace. So much occurred in this time period that it would be impossible to cover it all in one episode, so Justin highlights particularly riveting stories, anecdotes, and events that have piqued the interest of curious minds. He hopes to return to this topic in the future, ideally with an expert guest. |
Aug 08, 2022 |
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57. The American Comandante Liberating Cuba with Michael Sallah
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This week, Justin chats with investigative editor, veteran reporter, two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, and author Michael Sallah. Michael tells the story of William Morgan, an ex-paratrooper who went to Cuba in 1957 to help revolution efforts against then-dictator Fulgencio Batista. Morgan worked alongside the likes of Che Guevara, leading an entire guerilla himself. When the revolution ended and Castro's rule turned authoritarian, Morgan teamed up with Olga Rodriguez to try to liberate the country once again. |
Aug 01, 2022 |
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56. The Last Cold War Mole with Robert Baer
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Today, Justin sits down with legendary CIA case officer and author Robert Baer. Robert served all over the world between the late 1970s and late 1990s, spending much of his time in the middle east. He has written several nonfiction books about his experiences, including See No Evil, the book that inspired the 2005 film Syriana, for which he helped write the screenplay. George Clooney's character Robert Barnes is directly inspired by Robert himself. Robert's latest book, The Fourth Man, tries to unravel the mystery of a suspected high-level mole in the US government, still operating after three infamous moles were uncovered. |
Jul 25, 2022 |
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55. Answering Your Questions
2573
In this special episode of Spycraft 101, Justin answers questions listeners have submitted on Instagram. Tune in to hear stories of espionage in New Zealand, highly-successful operations, weapons and gadgets (including the fake scrotum concealment device), and more. If you submitted a question that wasn't answered, look out for our next Q & A episode. |
Jul 18, 2022 |
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54. Hunting Che Guevara with Felix Rodriguez (Part Two)
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This week, Justin returns with retired CIA paramilitary operations officer, Felix Rodriguez. Felix took part in many of the pivotal events of the Cold War from covert action against Fidel Castro in Cuba to operations in the Vietnam War and Laos to supporting to the Contras in Nicaragua. Today, Felix shares Che Guevara's failures as well as stories of Felix's time spent in Vietnam and Nicaragua. He also gives details on his own testimony before Congress, as well as an unlikely friendship with a former Cuban intelligence officer. |
Jul 11, 2022 |
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53. Hunting Che Guevara with Felix Rodriguez (Part One)
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In this episode, Justin sits down with retired CIA paramilitary operations officer, Felix Rodriguez. Felix took part in many of the pivotal events of the Cold War from covert action against Fidel Castro in Cuba to operations in the Vietnam War and Laos to supporting to the Contras in Nicaragua. Most famously, he was one of two Cubans that took part in the hunt for Che Guevara in Bolivia. Today, Felix shares his journey to the CIA, what it was like growing up in Cuba as the likes of Guevara and Castro took power, and more. |
Jul 04, 2022 |
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52. Capturing a Japanese War Criminal with Chris Carola
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This week, Justin sits down with journalist Chris Carola. Chris spent many years following the story of Jack Wilpers, one of the last surviving men on a team of World War II soldiers that captured Hideki Tojo, prime minister of Japan during WWII and a convicted war criminal. Jack was difficult to get ahold of, but Chris never backed down. Hear about Jack's interesting upbringing, his journey to counterintelligence, and key details of the events that led to Tojo's capture--and Jack's CIA career to follow. |
Jun 27, 2022 |
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51. The Youngest Green Beret in Vietnam with Terry McIntosh
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Today, Justin sits down with Terry McIntosh. Terry enlisted in the army at age 17, and joined special forces at age 18. He soon became one of the youngest men to wear a green beret in Vietnam. Terry was involved in the infamous Green Beret Affair, in which a Vietnamese double agent was identified and killed by his special forces team. Terry shares his journey to special forces, his experiences in the war, including serving on a special forces A-team and earning a combat badge. |
Jun 20, 2022 |
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50. Espionage in Nazi-Occupied Czechoslovakia with George Bearfield
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Today, Justin chats with writer, academic, and engineer George Bearfield. George is the grandson of Jaroslav Bublík, one of the last men to parachute into Bohemia and Moravia (now Czechoslovakia) in World War II. Jaroslav and his cousin Josef conducted espionage operations in the region while it was occupied by Nazi Germany until Josef was famously killed in Prague soon after assassinating German SS officer Reinhard Heydrich. George dives into the details of their dangerous parachute missions, the legacy they left in modern Czechia, and the rest of his grandfather's life. |
Jun 13, 2022 |
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49. The Life of a Cuban-Born CIA Shadow Warrior with Ric Prado
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This week, Justin chats with Enrique "Ric" Prado, a retired case officer and Paramilitary operative of the CIA. Ric is also the author of his memoir, Black Ops. Ric dives into his career, from fleeing the Peter Pan Project and his home country of Cuba to serving in Nicaragua with the Contras, including past guest Mike Lima AKA Luis Moreno. Soon after his time in Latin America and a few years in the Phillippines, Ric was contracted by the CIA to form the very task force that eventually took down Osama bin Laden. Outed by newspapers as CIA in 2009, Ric is the highest-ranking American covert operator to share his story publicly. |
Jun 06, 2022 |
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48. The Halyard Mission: Rescuing American Airmen in Serbia with John Capello
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This week, Justin sits down with John Capello, former Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and air attache and founder and president of the Halyard Mission Foundation. The mission itself involved rescuing over 500 US airmen from occupied Serbia in WWII with the help of Serbian nationals. John shares his own experiences as an air attache in Israel and Serbia. Each country posed difference challenges and attitudes due to differences in the progress of their relationships with the US. Then, John dives into the true story of the Halyard Mission--including just how important the Serbs were to the mission's success. This incredible military feat operated in secret right under the enemy's nose with no losses over a period of five months thanks to protection from brave Serbian civilians. |
May 30, 2022 |
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47. The Story of Spycraft 101
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In this episode, Justin reflects on the one-year anniversary of the Spycraft 101 Podcast. He details the history of Spycraft 101 from book ideas to the Instagram account finally the podcast, and gives shoutouts to those who have helped him along the way. Tune in for this special anniversary retrospective from your favorite espionage enthusiast. |
May 23, 2022 |
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46. Finding Che Guevara: Clandestine in the Congo with Jim Hawes
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This week Justin chats with author and former Navy SEAL and CIA contractor Jim Hawes. Jim served in Vietnam and worked with the CIA in the Congo to counter the spread of communist ideals and anti-western rebel activities. Today, Jim tells his story and shares details of his experiences, from becoming a SEAL and early in the life of the program to his role in the Gulf of Tonkin incident and finally locating Che Guevara, among several intelligence feats. |
May 16, 2022 |
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45. The Women of Britain's Special Operations Executive with Dr. Kate Vigurs
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This week Justin sits down with author and Historian Dr. Kate Vigurs. Kate shares the story of the women hired by Britain's Special Operations Executive, a mysterious organization that operated during World War II to conduct sabotage, reconnaissance, and espionage missions in occupied Europe. These brave women had to prove themselves as strong and worthy of dangerous work to compete with their male colleagues. From members of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force to women who were heard speaking excellent French at parties, female SOE personnel came from all walks of life. The work of the SOE and the women who joined it ultimately contributed to Allied victory and the fall of the Nazi regime. |
May 09, 2022 |
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44. A Secret US Intelligence Organization: Mysteries of the Pond with Dr. Mark Stout
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This week, Justin sits down with author, professor, historian and former intelligence analyst for the state department and the CIA, Dr. Mark Stout. Today, Mark shares his research on a mysterious early US intelligence entity known as the Pond. The Pond was a secret organization operating between 1942 and 1955, though its existence wasn't formally acknowledged by the US government until 2001. Headed by John V. Grombach, the Pond's unique espionage style was markedly different from the OSS and the CIA, though the quality of its intel has been brought to question. In the end, Grombach was his own worst enemy as his stark world view led to personality clashes with the CIA, ultimately playing a major role in the end of the Pond. |
May 02, 2022 |
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43. The Assassins Immortalized on Russia's Stamps with Mark Pruett
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Today, Justin sits down with business expert, university instructor, and author Mark Pruett. Mark dives into the world of Russia's stamp men--counterintelligence heroes hailed for their victories and honored for their work by having their faces immortalized on national postage. Mark tells the true stories of the heinous acts these Cheka (secret police) committed, covers their unfortunate endings, and asks why Putin chose to reinvigorate Chekist nationalism through postal propoganda. |
Apr 25, 2022 |
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42. A Father Lost in the Invasion of the Bay of Pigs with Janet Ray
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Today, Justin chats with Janet Ray. Janet lost her father, Pete Ray, when his plane was shot down by Cuban defenses in the invasion of the Bay of Pigs, an effort to retake Cuba from Castro. Met with lies and secrecy from the US government, Janet spent years finding answers on what happened to father as well as other men who didn't come home--including fighting to have their remains returned from Cuba. Justin hopes her story can shed light on how espionage and covert operations affect families around the world. |
Apr 18, 2022 |
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41. Russia's Revenge in Ukraine's Maidan Revolution with Shane Partlow (Part II)
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Tune back in for part two of Justin's interview with former diplomat and former non-commission officer in the United States Marine Corps, Shane Partlow. In this installment, Shane gets into the nitty gritty of Ukraine's 2014 Maidan Revolution, following the Euromaidan protests against former president Viktor Yanukovych. He discusses efforts to stay hidden at protests and rallies as well as what happened when the Yanukovych regime suddenly fell and Russian troops made an opportunistic play to invade Crimea. |
Apr 11, 2022 |
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40. Russia's Revenge in Ukraine's Maidan Revolution with Shane Partlow (Part I)
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This week Justin chats with former diplomat and former non-commission officer in the United States Marine Corps, Shane Partlow. Shane was an assistant defense attache in the Ukraine during their 2014 Maidan Revolution, following the Euromaidan protests against former president Viktor Yanukovych. Shane recounts the events that led to violence, corruption within the central government, and his own experiences as a Marine at the embassy. This interview is split into two parts, so be sure to tune in next week to hear more of Shane's account, including how the tables turned as revolution went on and Russia stepped into the ring. |
Apr 05, 2022 |
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39. Intelligence Agencies of the Soviet Bloc: The Czechoslovakian Secret Police
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Today, Justin describes research on an intelligence agency unique to one of the countries that makes up the former Soviet Bloc: Czechoslovakia's Státní Bezpečnost, also know as the StB. Hear stories of StB success from the 1940s to the 1980s, including suppression of rebellion and scuffles with MI6 and the CIA. Brutal and shockingly effective, the StB was one of Western intelligence's most formidable but little-known adversaries of the Cold War. |
Mar 28, 2022 |
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38. An 11-Year-Old Convicted and Executed as a Spy with Ian Townsend
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Today, author Ian Townsend shares the harrowing story of young Dickie Manson. Along with his mother, stepfather, uncle, and a family friend, Dickie was convicted as a spy and executed in during World War II. When the Australian government could not reinforce its troops in Rabaul, New Guinea, it left over a thousand Australian citizens behind, many of whom were tried for espionage by the Japanese. Though Americans and Australians alike forget the importance of the battle for Rabaul in the Pacific, it serves as a startling reminder that there are few real winners in war--and many more emotional casualties than we dare to think. |
Mar 21, 2022 |
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37. A Hollywood Spy: The Story of Boris Morros with Jonathan Gill
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Today, Justin interviews educator and author Jonathan Gill on the riveting tale of Boris Morros. A refugee of the Bolshevik Revolution turned film producer in the Golden Age of Hollywood, Boris was a mysterious and remarkable man. While many details of his life are thought to be exaggerated and the absolute truth remains unclear, Boris led a unique and eventful life. He became a Soviet spy during the Cold War only to turn on the USSR and act as a double agent for the United States. Tune in for an episode full of twists and turns. |
Mar 14, 2022 |
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36. Assassination by Poisoning: Russia & The Soviet Union
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Today, Justin shares riveting stories about the poisons and people that enabled several Soviet and Russian assassinations. From chemistry to radioactivity, learn about the way poison has captivated Russian power players since 1918. Hear of poison-coated bullets, the dangers of cyanide, and why we don't really know how many died at the hands of these methods. |
Mar 07, 2022 |
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35. The Story of a Soviet Defector with Alexandra Costa
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Today, Alexandra Costa shares the story of her defection from the Soviet Union. Also known as Yelena Mitrokhina, Alexandra was wife to the first secretary of the Russian Embassy in the US. She discusses growing up in the USSR, the real dangers of defecting, and her treatment by both the FBI and the CIA. Ultimately, Alexandra chose a better future for herself and her children despite immense risk. From teaching Marxism to young communists to peacefully renouncing the Soviet Union and becoming and entrepreneur, her life story is full of twists and turns. |
Feb 14, 2022 |
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34. Life as a Nicaraguan Contra with Luis Moreno
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Today, Luis Moreno gives a firsthand account of his experiences in Nicaragua. A prominent figure among The Contras, Luis survived unbearable violence and horrible tragedy. He gives insight on the practice of guerilla warfare, the reality of resistance, and the atrocities of war. |
Feb 07, 2022 |
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33. The True Story of the Portland Spy Ring with Trevor Barnes
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Today, Justin chats with former BBC senior reporter and producer, and now author, Trevor Barnes on the details of the Portland Spy Ring. This rare case involves stolen identities, money-hungry traitors, and more. When MI5 first discovered evidence and documents linking a Canadian man to espionage activities, they couldn't have expected what was to come. A combination of legal agents working via the embassy and illegal dead doubles, this complex KGB tale is more twisted than fiction. |
Jan 24, 2022 |
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32. Espionage in Academia and Higher Education with Daniel Golden
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Today, prolific journalist Daniel Golden dives into espionage recruitment at universities around the world. Faculty, staff, and students alike are often approached by covert operators from both sides of a conflict or interest, particularly international students. Another key group includes professors and adjuncts who, while American citizens, may be immigrants or otherwise have ties to countries of interest. Dan relates a specific story regarding a Chinese-American professor in Florida who was approached the FBI and told he could be fired for some previous transgressions, or retain his position and his tenure if he chose to be an FBI informant. |
Jan 11, 2022 |
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31. The CIA Men Tortured in Fidel Castro's Cuba
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In this solo episode, Justin dives into the story of three CIA men who survived against the odds in Havana, Cuba. As service technicians, their role was to set up surveillance equipment to monitor Castro's Cuba. The situation quickly turned sour, but all three agents stood their ground for almost three years before returning home without compromising their identities or the agency. |
Jan 03, 2022 |
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30. A Counterintelligence Agent Turned Romanov Heir with Tim Tate
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Today, prolific author and journalist Tim Tate shares the story of Polish Intelligence Officer Michael Goleniewski. A figure in James Angleton's complicated time with the CIA, Goleniewski was an expert counterintelligence agent who identified over a thousand Soviet Bloc spies across Europe and provided their details to the CIA and MI5. His complex story takes a rather interesting turn towards the end of his career when he claims to be the long-lost heir to Russia's final Czars, Alexei Romanov. What began as a play to claim the mythical Romanov fortune ends in true madness as Goleniewski becomes convinced that he really IS Alexei. |
Dec 27, 2021 |
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29. Communist Indoctrination of American POWs with Brian D. McKnight
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Today, author and scholar Brian McKnight delves into Chinese treatment of American prisoners of war during in Korea. Following the armistice that ended the Korean War in 1954, 23 American POWs refused repatriation to the United States. McKnight delves into what made them want to live in China--namely mandatory communist indoctrination while they were kept prisoner. By playing upon the reality of inequities these men faced while living in poverty under capitalism, Chinese soldiers were able to convince many the alleged upward mobility afforded by communism was reason enough not to return home. |
Dec 20, 2021 |
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28. The Complicated Case of James Angleton with Jefferson Morley
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Today, journalist, author, and expert Jefferson Morley shares unique details on the life and career of one of of the most controversial CIA figures: James Angleton. Angleton was the CIA'S chief of counterintelligence for two decades, from 1954 to 1974. He's known for his unique connections to the Italian elite post World War II, his close relationship with Israel, and his obsession over a potential mole within the CIA. Angleton was a brilliant and complicated man, but at times his paranoia seemed to get the best of him. |
Dec 13, 2021 |
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27. The Unlikely Alliance between the CIA and Ex-Communist Polish Intelligence with John Pomfret
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Today, author and journalist John Pomfret shares details about the true story of an interesting alliance involving Polish spies aiding the United States. After years of working against each other, ex-communist spies in Poland following a democratic election ended up working hand in hand with the country they'd been pinned against for most of the Cold War. |
Nov 29, 2021 |
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26. The Green Beret Defector with Greg Walker
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Today, author and former special forces officer Greg Walker shares the little-known story of a David Baez, a green beret defector. Baez was a Nicaraguan national whose father was killed by U.S.-backed President Samosa after voicing his displeasure with inequalities that had risen under Samosa's rule. After immigrating the U.S. and joining the Army (and then Special Forces), Baez found himself in El Salvador watching the country he served try to re-institute the rule of a dynasty that had done personal harm to his own family. Baez defected to Nicaragua in support of Sandinista revolutionary forces--despite the danger it posed to his American brothers in arms. |
Nov 22, 2021 |
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25. An Amoral Intelligence Superstar in Korea with Blaine Harden
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Today, author and renowned journalist Blaine Harden tells the unique story of Donald Nichols, a young intelligence officer operating in Korea. Nichols was known for being big, powerful, and morally ambiguous--but his accomplishments in Korea are virtually unknown. From warning General McArthur and the U.S. Army of the incoming Korean War (to no avail) to being falsely diagnosed with schizophrenia and undergoing electroshock therapy at the hands of the Air Force, Nichols lived a life full of surprises. |
Nov 15, 2021 |
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24. The Incredible Military Feat of Operation Jaque
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Today, Justin sits down solo to discuss Operation Jaque. This noteworthy mission took place in Colombia, where the local military managed to rescue 15 hostages from the extremist Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). FARC was known for its ruthlessness, and past rescue missions had resulted in death or injury for all but one hostage. In this unique situation, strategy percolated from the bottom of the ranks to the top, and the hostages (two of whom were Americans and a third a former Colombian presidential candidate) were successfully recovered thanks to unique intelligence. |
Nov 08, 2021 |
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23. Secrets of the Cold War from 1947 to 1990 with Aden Magee
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Today, hear from author and counterintelligence professional Aden Magee. Aden discusses how Cold War espionage began in a relatively friendly manner and evolved into the high stakes stories we know today. Initial "liaison tours" served as methods of intelligence collection as tensions rose between the USSR and the other Allied powers. As boundaries on restricted areas were drawn, tours became more and more dangerous with the risk of Soviet or East German detention, vehicle ramming, and shooting of MLM officers who strayed too close to restricted lines. |
Nov 01, 2021 |
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22. Aerial Experiences in Cold War Reconnaissance with Robert Hopkins III
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Today, hear about the real experiences of Cold War pilots from expert Robert Hopkins III. Through a combination of personal experience as an overflight pilot, intense research, and varying interviews he shares the reality of aerial Cold War reconnaissance. From the infamous U2 incident of 1960 to stories the public has hardly heard, Robert provides an inside look into the lives and missions of pilots and aerial teams during one of the tensest eras of US history. |
Oct 25, 2021 |
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21. Highly Unusual Friendship: The Bond between a CIA Case Officer and a KGB Agent with Eric Dezenhall
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Today, hear from author, crisis manager, and public relations expert Eric Dezenhall about one of the strangest friendships in Cold War history. Jack Platt and Gennady Vasilenko forged a strong brotherly connection despite their respective loyalties to the CIA and the KGB. They shared a love of shooting and a thirst for adventure, but one of their greatest feats is revealing the FBI's most notorious double agent: Robert Hanssen. Listen to hear stories of Jack and Gennady's misadventures and what it took to bring down one of the worst spies in history. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/spycraft101) Support the show |
Oct 18, 2021 |
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20. The True Story of the Poison Gun and the KGB Defector with Dr. Serhii Plokhy
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Today, Dr. Serhii Plokhy shares the story of KGB assassin Bogdan Stashinsky. Stashinsky is best known for assassinating a man on a bridge using a gun that contained a poison pellet as opposed to a bullet, ultimately killing his target in a way that appeared to be natural causes. Following his defection, his case involved a highly publicized assassination trial in 1962. Thanks to his honesty, Soviet leaders were finally implicated in many of the killings they had ordered and the KGB was put under pressure to reform their cruel tactics. |
Oct 04, 2021 |
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19. Licensed to Kill: The Couple that Inspired James Bond with Dr. Richard Wooldridge
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It's Mason, Peter Mason. Today, guest Dr. Richard Wooldridge dives into the interesting lives of talented MI6 agents Prudence and Peter Mason. Part of a specialized unit called the Baker Team that sought to even the score with war criminals who had faced no repercussions following World War II, Peter Mason was literally licensed by the British government to kill. Speculation suggests that Peter--who knew Ian Fleming himself--is the chief inspiration for the most famous fictional intelligence agent in our cultural lexicon: James Bond. And what about Prudence? Despite a slim information available, we know she played a formative part in many missions abroad (in high-stakes locations like British Palestine) thanks to her impressive linguistic skills. |
Sep 28, 2021 |
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18. KGB Agent to US Informant: Nikolai Khokhlov
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Today, Justin tells the story of former KGB officer Nikolai Evgenievich Khokhlov. Starting his career as a vaudeville performer before being recruited by pre-KGB Russian intelligence, Nikolai was highly skilled, and lived an incredible life. Hear all about his story from assassinating world leaders to testifying about the true cruelty of the KGB on national television. |
Sep 20, 2021 |
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17. 9/11 and Beyond with Toby Harnden
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Today, author and journalist Toby Harnden provides timely reflection on the events leading up to and following the September 11th attack on the World Trade Center. Hear unique details on the CIA mission launched to avenge those lost, as well as an interesting comparison between the current state of global politics and the very beginning of the war on terror. |
Sep 13, 2021 |
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16. An NSA Agent Abroad with Dr. Eric Haseltine
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In this episode, Dr. Eric Haseltine (self-proclaimed neuroscientist gone bad) tells the story of NSA agent Charles Gandy. Gandy was part of an uncharacteristic collaboration between the CIA and the NSA to find out what was happening in Cold War-era Moscow. Secret information was constantly ending up in Soviet hands, and assets were compromised left and right. It's a true tale of American hubris (and psychology) Haseltine believes we can learn from today. There may be people out there who are smarter than we are--and have better tech. Instead of ignoring or laughing off these threats, it's imperative to investigate and prepare. |
Sep 06, 2021 |
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15. Shadows of the Cold War: A Murder Investigation with Fred Burton
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This week, Fred Burton shares details on the Cold War-era murder of an Israeli diplomat, Colonel Joe Alon, in the US. Fred is a former special agent and current executive director for the center for protective intelligence at ONTIC. Hear him share his personal connections to the case as well as what it took to finally solve who pulled the trigger. |
Aug 30, 2021 |
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14. The Despondent Rise and Joyful Fall of the Berlin Wall with Helena Merriman
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This week, Author and BBC reporter Helena Merriman shares the story of the covert construction of the Berlin Wall, and the way it tore families apart. Hear heartbreaking accounts of "orphaned" children whose parents were alive and well on the other side, lovers separated, and the desperate measures East German citizens took in attempts to escape oppression. How many were able to flee? |
Aug 23, 2021 |
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13. From Forest Fires to CIA Resuppliers with Lee Gossett
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Lee Gossett (friend of Spycraft 101 alumnus Neil Hansen) shares his experience from starting his flight career as a smoke jumper fighting remote forest firs to flying for Air America, the CIA's secret airline, in Laos. Lee shares stories about friends who passed and what it was like flying above Laos and Vietnam. Do you know the difference between hard rice and soft rice? (Hint: one isn't actually rice.) |
Aug 16, 2021 |
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12. Life in FBI Counterintelligence with James Gaylord
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What you do if you found the man responsible for sharing classified Navy secrets with the Chinese government? Former FBI agent James Gaylord shares his story. From covert house searches to arresting Chinese spies at the airport tune in to this episode to hear what it's really like working counterterrorism for the FBI. |
Aug 09, 2021 |
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11. The Sacrifices of Adolf Tolkachev: A Soviet CIA Asset with David E. Hoffman
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In this episode, David E. Hoffman goes into detail on the long-running espionage of Russian radar scientist, Adolf Tolkachev. Tolkachev was so determined to bring down the USSR that he approached the CIA in Moscow himself and risked his life to bring the US hundreds of secret documents that would prove invaluable. |
Jul 26, 2021 |
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10. An Ex-KGB Spy in America with Jack Barsky and Chelsea Dittrich
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In this episode, Jack Barsky tells of his time working against the US as a KGB spy. From dangerous situations and being followed by the FBI to the lie he told to 'retire' from the KGB, hear about Jack's work firsthand. His daughter, Chelsea, shares a unique perspective on what it's like to be a 'spy kid' in the real world. |
Jul 19, 2021 |
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9. The Butcher of Lyon: The Crimes of Klaus Barbie
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In this solo episode, hear Justin tell the story of nazi hold out and eventual ally spy, Klaus Barbie. From WWII atrocities to giving up his own ex-SS colleagues and trying to take down the USSR, Barbie's life was continuously complicated thanks to his intelligence expertise and unique skills. |
Jul 12, 2021 |
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8. Counterterrorism and Special Forces with Steven Emerson
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In this episode, author and journalist Steven Emerson shares inside information on covert military operation abroad during the Cold War era. Hear of covert organizations and secret missions you never knew happened, with unique details on the Screaming Eagles to Green Berets to Operation Eagle Claw. Have you ever heard of the Yellow Fruit Organization? |
Jul 05, 2021 |
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7. The CIA and the Shah with Tim Tyler
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In this episode of Spycraft 101, Tim Tyler shares details of the CIA's involvement in Iran following World War II. From constitutional action mistaken for coups to non-lethal missions after the Islamic fundamentalist revolution, Tim provides important background and context on events that still affect the global political climate today. |
Jun 28, 2021 |
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6. The Inventions and Espionage of Leon Theremin with Dr. Albert Glinsky
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In this episode, Dr. Albert Glinsky covers the life of Leon Theremin. Theremin invented the odd musical instrument that bears his name, but he also engaged in espionage in the US for the Soviet Union. His brilliance allowed him to invent a seemingly innocuous device known as The Thing, the world's fist covert listening tool. |
Jun 21, 2021 |
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5. Flying for the CIA's Secret Airline with Neil Hansen
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In this episode, hear from Neil Hansen about what it was like flying for Air America in Southeast Asia. Neil spent his time working with and defending the Hmong people in Laos--and he disagrees with tales of POWs held there long after the end of the Vietnam War. After leaving Laos, Neil used his flight experience in unorthodox ways to raise the money to bring home 100+ refugees from Malaysia and other parts of the Pacific. |
Jun 14, 2021 |
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4. Cyanide Pills and Glowing Foxes with John Lisle
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In this episode, hear about the birth of American international espionage: the OSS. From cyanide pills to radioactive glowing foxes, the the USA's first intelligence organization was full of unique dirty tricks thanks to its Research and Development director, Stanley Lovell. |
Jun 07, 2021 |
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3. The Man in Moscow with Michael D. Sellers
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In this episode of Spycraft 101, hear from retired CIA agent and movie producer Michael D. Sellers about his time as an agent in Ethiopia, Moscow, and The Philippines. What is really like to be ambushed by the KGB when you meet up with an asset? |
May 31, 2021 |
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2. The Reality of Life in the CIA with Doug Patteson
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In the second episode of Spycraft 101's double feature premiere, hear what it's really like to be a CIA case manager, with former agent Doug Patteson. Who's in more danger--a US agent or a foreign asset? |
May 24, 2021 |
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1. The Life and Lies of Fritz Joubert Duquesne with Andrew Blasco
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In the first episode of Spycraft 101's double feature premiere, hear about the infamous Fritz Joubert Duquesne from author Andrew Blasco. Was Duquesne really the man who killed Kitchener, or was it another intricate lie woven into his already eventful life? |
May 24, 2021 |
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SPYCRAFT 101 INTRO
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Welcome to the Spycraft 101 Podcast, your clandestine clasroom. Support the show |
May 12, 2021 |