

Episode 397: The Hunt for Frank Wisner
Aug 1, 2024
Matt Farwell, an author known for his insights into CIA history, dives into the intriguing life of Frank Wisner, a pivotal figure in early CIA operations. They explore Wisner's duality, reflecting on his heroism and darker legacies, alongside his mental health struggles. The discussion also reveals how military veterans navigate civilian life, influenced by video games like Tom Clancy's creations. With humorous anecdotes, they touch on military culture, deception in relationships during deployment, and Wisner's chaotic espionage adventures, offering a blend of humor and serious reflections.
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Intro
00:00 • 4min
Military Musings and Misadventures
03:31 • 11min
Veterans, Video Games, and the Cult of Combat
14:42 • 17min
Legacy of Frank Wisner: Heroism and Complexity
31:16 • 13min
Exploring Infidelity and Deception During Military Deployments
44:44 • 2min
Espionage and Eccentricities: The Life of Frank Wisner
46:33 • 11min
Wisner's Maneuvers: Romania 1944
57:21 • 4min
Shadows of Cold War Intelligence
01:01:50 • 20min
Censorship, Aliens, and Historical Echoes
01:22:12 • 13min
Cultural Quirks: Soda, Pop, and Regional Language Variations
01:35:38 • 2min
Humor and Healing: A Deep Dive
01:37:24 • 10min
The Tumultuous Journey of a CIA Pioneer
01:47:21 • 2min
The Unconventional Diplomacy of Carmel Offee
01:49:05 • 2min
Espionage and Identity: The Legacy of Kim Philby
01:50:42 • 11min
Military Life Reflections
02:01:37 • 6min