“Wild” Bill Donovan laid the template for the formation of the modern CIA, but this wasn’t the way his life was supposed to turn out. A working class boy from Buffalo, Bill dreamt of something better for himself. These dreams took him to the trenches of Belgium and the beaches of Normandy, then to the halls of power themselves.

This is the story of the man behind the CIA. From decorated war hero to an eccentric establishment figure, listen as David and Gordon tell the story of Wild Bill Donovan.

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Just go to ⁠https://therestisclassified.supportingcast.fm/gifts⁠

And of course, you can still join for yourself any time at ⁠therestisclassified.com⁠ or on Apple Podcasts.

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THE REST IS CLASSIFIED LIVE 2026: Buy your tickets ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠ to see David and Gordon live on stage at London’s Southbank Centre on 31 January.

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Email: ⁠therestisclassified@goalhanger.com⁠

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Social Producer: Emma Jackson

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Head of History: Dom Johnson

Exec Producer: Tony Pastor

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