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
143 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 43min
9. North Korea’s CIA: Inside Kim’s Crime Family (Ep 1)
A riveting exploration of North Korea’s hidden cybercrime world reveals how state-sponsored hackers executed the largest bank heist ever. The chilling connection between espionage and organized crime is laid bare, demonstrating the lavish lifestyles of the regime compared to the poverty of its citizens. Intriguing tales of assassinations, including Kim Jong-un's half-brother, illustrate the extreme lengths taken by North Korean operatives. As cybercrime becomes a lifeline for the regime, the paradox of survival and success in a repressive system unfolds.
96 snips
Dec 25, 2024 • 46min
8. The Man Who Made MI6
Dive into the eccentric life of Mansfield Cumming, MI6's first chief, known for his quirky methods, like stabbing his own wooden leg to test recruits. Explore bizarre gadgets and uncover how his rebellious spirit shaped British espionage during WWI. Hear personal anecdotes that illustrate the heartbreak he faced during wartime tragedy. The discussion weaves humor and historical insight, revealing the complexities of human behavior in intelligence work while highlighting the resilience and creativity of MI6 operatives.
51 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 40min
7. The Real Godfather: The Assassination that Shook Syria (Ep 2)
The podcast reveals the intricate link between Rafic Hariri's assassination and the weakening of the Assad regime. It draws compelling parallels between Bashar al-Assad's rise to power and the dynamics of the Corleone crime family from 'The Godfather.' The gruesome details of the Beirut explosion that took Hariri's life are recounted, alongside its catastrophic aftermath. Listeners are taken through the political upheaval that followed, highlighting mass protests and investigations that forever altered Middle Eastern politics.
61 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 44min
6. The Real Godfather: Assad’s Syrian Mafia (Ep 1)
Explore the chilling rise of Bashar al-Assad and the parallels to organized crime, as his regime mirrors the tale of 'The Godfather.' Delve into the brutal assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri and the power struggles that marked early 2000s Syria and Lebanon. Discover Assad's transformation from eye doctor to feared authoritarian, navigating betrayal and loyalty within his family arrayed against a backdrop of political intrigue and regional instability.
60 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 41min
5. CIA vs the Taliban: Bin Laden's Trojan Horse (Ep 2)
The capture of Mazar-i-Sharif kicks off a dangerous game as the Taliban's hold begins to falter. CIA operatives face a chaotic prisoner revolt at Qala-i-Jangi, leading to desperate measures to maintain control. Tensions rise as American forces await crucial British support, while the complexities of surrender negotiations unfold. Amidst harrowing escapes and tragic miscommunications, the podcast dives into the brutal realities of the fight for Afghanistan, raising questions about military strategy and its dire implications.
93 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 37min
4. The Rise and Fall of Assad's Spy State
What happens to security services after Assad's fall? Western and Syrian intelligence dynamics are put under the microscope. The hosts reflect on the emotional turmoil surrounding reunifications and the murky world of cyber threats. They dissect the implications of regime collapse and criminal enterprises in Syria. Russian influences and the potential vacuum raise alarms about stability in the region. Most importantly, the voices of ordinary Syrians fighting for their rights take center stage, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping the future.
115 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 46min
3. CIA vs the Taliban: Behind Enemy Lines (Ep 1)
America acted fast after 9/11, launching covert CIA operations in Afghanistan. Teams infiltrated behind enemy lines with cash and few resources, forging alliances with local warlords like Abdul Rashid Dostum. The podcast dives into the early days of these missions, revealing the urgency, challenges, and moral dilemmas the CIA faced. It also explores the intricate web of alliances, the tumultuous landscape of Afghanistan, and the complex legacy of a notorious warlord, showcasing a pivotal moment in modern history.
214 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 31min
2. The First CIA Coup: Turmoil in Tehran (Ep 2)
Amid chaos in Tehran, a CIA operative's determination shapes a covert mission. As protesters clash over the Shah's rule, he seizes the moment to manipulate unrest. The narrative unfolds with unexpected alliances, bizarre political scenarios, and a glimpse into military secrets. A key meeting in Rome adds layers to the unfolding drama. The chaotic events of August 19, 1953, shift Iran’s power dynamics, marking a significant moment in U.S.-Iran relations. The coup leads to unforeseen consequences, revealing the pitfalls of foreign intervention.
451 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 42min
1. The First CIA Coup: Oil, Iran, and MI6 (Ep 1)
Dive into the tumultuous world of 1953 Iran, where Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh's nationalization of oil ignited a fierce response from British and American intelligence. Uncover the secretive collaboration between the CIA and MI6 as they conspired to overthrow him. Discover the amusing yet serious nature of the covert operations and the winding paths of espionage that led to political upheaval. The legacy of this coup reveals a deep-seated tension affecting Iran's view of the West that resonates to this day.
Nov 18, 2024 • 1min
The Rest is Classified Trailer
The Rest Is Classified takes you into the mysterious world of spies and espionage. Hosted by former CIA analyst now turned spy novelist, David McCloskey, and veteran security correspondent, Gordon Corera, they’ve experienced this field first-hand. It’s a world of shadows, shrouded in secrecy, but it affects every one of us. It’s time to bring it into the light. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
