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
42 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 39min
18. Attack on Greenpeace: France’s Nuclear Bomb (Ep 1)
In the 70s and 80s, France's nuclear testing in the Pacific sparked outrage among environmentalists. Greenpeace, with its fearless Rainbow Warrior, took on this battle, leading to a dramatic espionage mission. A covert French operation aimed to infiltrate and sabotage the ship using limpet mines. Tensions escalated as the activists faced a deadly game of cat and mouse with French intelligence. The shocking sinking of the Rainbow Warrior not only highlighted the dangers of state-sponsored sabotage but also the heavy costs of political maneuvering in the name of national security.
52 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 44min
17. Crossing the Iron Curtain: Revenge in Russia (Ep 4)
The gripping tale of Adolf Tolkachev unfolds as he navigates the treacherous world of espionage, risking everything for the CIA. Tension rises with the mounting pressures from the KGB, revealing the psychological strain of being a mole. Betrayal and ultimate capture spotlight the harsh realities of intelligence work. The narrative emphasizes the crucial role of human intelligence during the Cold War, contrasting it with modern recruitment methods. Themes of sacrifice, regret, and the enduring complexities of espionage resonate throughout this captivating conclusion.
35 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 47min
16. Crossing the Iron Curtain: Escape From the KGB (Ep 3)
Discover the high-stakes world of espionage in Cold War Moscow. A CIA spy grapples with the harrowing decision to use a suicide pill while facing the KGB's relentless pursuit. Tensions escalate as music from Western bands becomes a lifeline for an informant amid a repressive regime. Explore the ethical dilemmas of managing spies and the clever tradecraft utilized in the cat-and-mouse game of intelligence operations. With personal anecdotes and historical insights, this narrative captures the gripping reality of life undercover.
6 snips
Feb 1, 2025 • 11min
The Seventh Floor (Extract)
Dive into the thrilling world of espionage as a CIA officer uncovers a mole within the agency. The intrigue escalates with a Russian agent's secret that leads to a deadly chase. Friendship and betrayal ripple through the narrative, reflecting on loyalty in a treacherous business. Plus, there's a sneak peek into a new streaming series that combines supernatural elements with mystery. Tension builds as the hunt intensifies, revealing both heroes and hidden enemies.
66 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 46min
15. Crossing the Iron Curtain: The Cold War’s Most Valuable Spy (Ep 2)
The podcast dives into the gripping story of Adolf Tolkachev, a CIA mole in Moscow during the Cold War. It examines the perilous world of espionage and strategies for covert communication, including the use of dead drops. Tolkachev's motivations to spy and the risks he faced from the KGB are explored, revealing the spy's dilemma of pay versus loyalty. The crucial role of photography in gathering intelligence is also discussed, highlighting how Tolkachev’s contributions transformed the CIA's understanding of Soviet military capabilities.
88 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 52min
14. Crossing the Iron Curtain: The CIA’s Mole In Moscow (Ep 1)
Explore the riveting tale of Adolf Tolkachev, a Soviet radar expert who became a key CIA asset during the Cold War. Discover the high stakes of espionage as Tolkachev risked everything to relay crucial intelligence while evading the ever-watchful KGB. The intricate dynamics between the CIA's Moscow station and its headquarters are unveiled, showcasing the dangers faced by spies. Additionally, the podcast touches on the legacy of formidable female spies, like Christina Skarbek, who broke barriers and made significant contributions during World War II.
78 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 43min
13. How China Spies: Trump, TikTok, and Taiwan
Is TikTok a spy tool for China? The ban in the U.S. ignites debates on national security and data privacy. Delve into TikTok's influence on public opinion and its potential as an intelligence-gathering platform. Explore the concept of cognitive warfare, where social media shapes perceptions, especially regarding China and Taiwan. Historical anecdotes juxtapose modern rivalries, revealing the ongoing U.S.-China tech battle and featuring impressive tales from WWII espionage. Tune in for a blend of serious analysis and light-hearted banter!
60 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 53min
12. The Spy Who Loved Me: A Russian in New York (Ep 2)
Anna Chapman, a Russian deep-cover spy, lives a glamorous life in New York while under FBI surveillance. As tensions rise between the US and Russia, the FBI grapples with how to approach her case without solid proof. A critical encounter leads her unknowingly into a sting operation, revealing the personal stakes of her espionage activities. The intricacies of her life intertwine with the relentless efforts of intelligence agents, highlighting the high stakes and psychological tensions of modern espionage.
67 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 41min
11. The Spy Who Loved Me: Undercover in Londongrad (Ep 1)
Dive into the captivating world of espionage as the story of Anna Chapman unfolds. Discover her glamorous life in Londongrad and the power dynamics of wealthy Russians in London. Uncover the complexities behind her portrayal as a simple honeytrap, and explore her romance entangled with hidden motives. The podcast reveals the shadows of betrayal among Russian oligarchs and their covert operations, alongside the transformation of a spy into a successful entrepreneur in America. It's a thrilling tale of intrigue, love, and secrets!
64 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 44min
10. North Korea’s CIA: The Billion Dollar Heist (Ep 2)
What happens when an authoritarian regime resembles a crime syndicate? Delve into North Korea's audacious attempt to steal nearly $1 billion from the Central Bank of Bangladesh. With meticulous planning and hacking expertise, operatives set out to execute one of history's largest heists. Discover their high-stakes gambling escapades in Las Vegas casinos and their unique money laundering tactics. The narrative blurs the lines between espionage and organized crime, leaving listeners questioning the morality behind such daring exploits.
