The Rest Is Classified
Goalhanger
Enter the secretive world of spies, espionage, and covert operations. Hosted by former CIA analyst turned spy novelist, David McCloskey, and veteran security correspondent, Gordon Corera, this podcast unravels real-life spy stories, intelligence secrets, and the hidden power struggles shaping global events. From Cold War espionage to modern-day intelligence agencies like the CIA, MI6, and Mossad, explore the world of double agents, classified missions, and the shadowy figures who operate in them. Whether you're a true crime addict, a thriller fan, or fascinated by spy stories, this is the show for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books
71 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 39min
62. Terror Strikes London: 7/7 (Ep 1)
On a bright summer morning, London's celebration over winning the 2012 Olympics quickly turned to horror as devastating explosions rocked the city. The podcast delves into the chaos as MI5 grappled with the unfolding crisis, raising questions about possible intelligence failures. As the investigation progressed, it revealed the shocking truth: the attackers were from within Britain. The episode not only recounts the tragic events of 7/7 but also explores the broader implications for national security and counterterrorism efforts.
21 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 41min
61. The Truth About UFOs: Whistleblowers, Warplanes, and Worlds Unknown (Ep 4)
Discover the shift in the UFO narrative as recent government reports unveil hundreds of UAP sightings, leaving experts confounded. Delve into U.S. Navy pilots' incredible testimonies and the implications for national security. A notable Chinese spy balloon incident raises tensions and questions. Explore the blurred lines between next-gen tech and potential non-human intelligence. Plus, enjoy a lighthearted discussion on public skepticism and Hollywood's last-minute casting decisions in 'Jaws'. It's an engaging mix of mystery and humor!
66 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 33min
60. The Truth About UFOs: The CIA's Alien Obsession (Ep 3)
In 1955, a senator's sighting of a mysterious orb sparked intrigue into the CIA's UFO investigations. The agency, fearing Soviet technology more than alien life, launched secretive programs that only stoked public fascination with conspiracies. The discussion reveals how the iconic U-2 spy plane inadvertently linked to UFO sightings, fueling a narrative of secrecy and cover-ups. Explore an unexpected UFO incident involving a Chicago tape and how Cold War tensions shaped perceptions of extraterrestrial encounters.
29 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 36min
59. The Truth About UFOs: Alien Sightings (Ep 2)
Dive into the bizarre world of the Roswell incident, where not just one but multiple alien crash sites allegedly emerged in the 1970s. Eyewitnesses share wild tales of small, strange beings with big heads and no bodies left behind. Explore the intriguing connections to 1950s military balloon experiments and the misinterpretations that sparked UFO hysteria. Discover how cultural attitudes towards aliens differ globally and how governmental secrecy has only fueled the fascination with extraterrestrial life.
58 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 34min
58. The Truth About UFOs: The Roswell Incident (Ep 1)
In 1947, the Roswell incident ignited a worldwide fascination with UFOs, starting with sensational headlines and eyewitness accounts of a flying saucer. The discussion dives into the tension between official narratives and conspiracy theories, revealing how government secrecy fueled speculation. The podcast also examines the cultural impact of UFOs, from early media frenzy to their depiction in films and shows. Listeners will explore the connections between military experiments, espionage, and this enduring mystery that continues to captivate imaginations.
132 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 46min
57. Why Israel Attacked Iran
Tensions mount as Israel strikes Iran, escalating their long-simmering conflict. The assassination of key nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, using advanced technologies, underscores the drastic tactics Israel employs to counter Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Delve into the ethics of targeted killings amidst murky moral dilemmas and the role of Iran's Revolutionary Guards. The dynamics of this shadow war are explored, revealing the complexities of modern espionage, military strategy, and the balance between covert operations and direct action.
26 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 3min
56. Bin Laden vs the CIA: Death in Pakistan (Ep 6)
Explore Osama bin Laden's surprising life in hiding, managing Al-Qaeda while living a mundane existence in Pakistan. Discover the chilling details of the Navy SEAL raid, including the dramatic moments and the aftermath of his death. The podcast delves into the evolution of U.S. military tactics leading up to the operation, and the unique atmosphere of the White House Correspondents Dinner on the day of the raid. Lastly, reflect on bin Laden's lasting legacy and its impact on global security and modern terrorism.
57 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 57min
55. Bin Laden vs the CIA: The Hunt for the World's Most Wanted (Ep 5)
The relentless hunt for Osama bin Laden reveals a web of intrigue and intelligence. A fleeting sighting and valuable interrogation finally point the CIA in the right direction. The complexities of US-Pakistani relations add another layer of challenge, while elaborate surveillance uncovers the unexpected location of bin Laden. Deliberations at the highest levels demonstrate the weight of decisions that could lead to capture or catastrophe. Discover the intricate dance of intelligence and strategy that defined this historic manhunt.
60 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 43min
54. Bin Laden vs the CIA: 9/11 (Ep 4)
On a fateful September morning, the meticulously planned 9/11 attacks exposed America's surprising vulnerabilities. Discover the behind-the-scenes dynamics among Osama bin Laden, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, and the Al-Qaeda operatives chosen for this horrific mission. The intelligence failures and miscommunications leading up to the attacks reveal a somber narrative of missed warnings. As chaos ensued on that day, contrasting responses in Afghanistan highlight the grim celebration of tragedy, setting the stage for a relentless decade-long hunt for the mastermind behind it all.
63 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 59min
53. Bin Laden vs the CIA: The Great Escape (Ep 3)
Explore the chilling evolution of Osama bin Laden from a wealthy Saudi to a global terrorist icon after his return to Afghanistan. Discover how he leveraged media to enhance his jihadist image while Al-Qaeda grew stronger. Delve into the CIA's frantic yet often thwarted attempts to capture him, including the bizarre Trod Pints Plan. The podcast highlights critical missed opportunities and internal struggles within the CIA that exacerbated the threat leading up to the devastating 1998 embassy bombings and ultimately 9/11.
