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
181 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 59min
74. The Hunt for Pablo Escobar: Rise of a Drug Lord (Ep 1)
Delve into the chaotic beauty of Colombia as Pablo Escobar emerges from petty crime to infamy. Discover how he capitalized on the burgeoning cocaine market, turning a fringe luxury into a multi-billion-dollar empire. Explore the duality of his persona—a charming figure masquerading as a lethal drug lord. Learn about Medellín's transformation into a cocaine trafficking hub and the violent strategies Escobar employed to dominate the drug trade. Unravel the societal impacts of his reign amidst the political turmoil of the time.
46 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 41min
73. Destroying the Nazi Nuclear Program: Saving the World From War (Ep 2)
Discover the daring Operation Gunnerside, where a team of commandos sabotaged a Nazi heavy water plant in Norway, risking their lives against freezing temperatures and enemy pursuit. Learn about the hilarious yet intense moments from their chaotic escape, where dark humor provided relief. The legacy of leader Joachim Rønneberg is explored, reflecting on the heavy water's significance in nuclear weaponry. Also, meet quiet heroes who contributed to this crucial mission, showcasing themes of bravery and selflessness.
44 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 45min
72. Destroying the Nazi Nuclear Program: Bombing Norway (Ep 1)
Discover the thrilling tale of Operation Gunnerside, where a group of Norwegian commandos risked it all to thwart the Nazi nuclear ambitions. Journey alongside young hero Joachim Rønneberg as he transforms from an ordinary skier to a key player in this daring mission. Learn about the importance of heavy water and the challenges faced while navigating the rugged Norwegian landscape. Packed with suspenseful anecdotes and historical insights, this story highlights the courage and ingenuity required to change the course of history.
80 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 44min
71. Israel Attacks Iran: The Dawn of Cyber Warfare (Ep 4)
Discover the groundbreaking Stuxnet cyberweapon and its unintended emergence into the wild. Listen as experts discuss its profound impacts on Iran's nuclear program and the moral dilemmas faced by cybersecurity researchers. Delve into the complexities of British intelligence involvement and the evolving tactics of Israel against Iran. Explore the shifting power dynamics in the region and the costs of military engagement. The conversation also teases insights into the future of Iranian covert operations and their nuclear ambitions.
56 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 34min
70. Israel Attacks Iran: The Virus Spreads (Ep 3)
Explore the intriguing role of the Stuxnet virus in cyber warfare and how it evolved to target Iran's nuclear capabilities more aggressively. Discover the ethical dilemmas faced by the Obama administration in launching covert cyber operations. Unpack the complexities of international relations amid rising tensions around Iran's uranium enrichment. The discussion highlights the unintentional chaos unleashed by self-propagating computer worms and emphasizes the critical importance of legal oversight in these covert actions.
89 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 39min
69. Israel Attacks Iran: Mossad’s First Assault (Ep 2)
Discover the origins of cyber warfare and how Israel and the US developed a game-changing weapon against Iran's nuclear ambitions. Explore the meticulous planning behind cyber sabotage, showcasing its effectiveness without physical damage. Delve into the complexities of covert operations, insider threats, and international intelligence collaborations. Gain insights into the psychological chaos caused by cyber attacks and how they compare to traditional warfare. It's a riveting journey through modern espionage and the evolution of military strategies.
78 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 48min
68. Israel Attacks Iran: The Origins of the Iranian Nuclear Programme (Ep 1)
Discover the fascinating origins of Iran's nuclear program and Israel's early attempts to thwart it. Explore the significant role of cyber warfare, including the Stuxnet attack, in escalating tensions. Unravel the intricate relationship between Pakistan and Iran in nuclear technology transfers. Gain insights into Iran's cautious nuclear strategy and the international complexities surrounding it. Delve into covert operations like 'Operation Olympic Games' as the U.S. grapples with the threat of regional nuclear proliferation.
33 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 51min
67. The Great Betrayal: Defecting to Moscow (Ep 2)
Dive into the mind of Edward Lee Howard, a CIA dropout turned KGB spy. Discover his chaotic life filled with alcohol-fueled decisions and betrayal as he navigated the treacherous world of espionage. Uncover the clever tricks used during his daring escape from the FBI, including a life-sized dummy. Explore the mysterious circumstances surrounding a fatal incident in Russia and the broader implications of betrayal within the intelligence community. The psychological tactics behind spying reveal a dark but fascinating side of human vulnerabilities.
60 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 48min
66. The Great Betrayal: An American Traitor (Ep 1)
Explore the captivating life of Edward Lee Howard, the only CIA officer to defect to Moscow, and the motivations behind his betrayal. Dive into the psychological impacts of loyalty and treachery, alongside a closer look at CIA recruitment practices and the rigorous training operatives undergo. Discover the role of polygraph tests in securing positions in intelligence and how youthful recruits navigate the high-stakes world of espionage. This tale uncovers the complex dynamics of betrayal within the zeitgeist of the Cold War.
30 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 10min
Former Head of MI5: 7/7, Putin, and Al-Qaeda (Eliza Manningham-Buller)
Delve into the intense world of MI5 as former head Eliza Manningham-Buller shares her firsthand experiences during the 7/7 attacks. Discover the shocking revelations about blind spots in intelligence and the emotional weight these events carry. Hear insights from a tense meeting with Vladimir Putin that shed light on national security. The discussion also uncovers the complex ties between Al-Qaeda, terrorism, and global geopolitical dynamics. Finally, explore how the legacy of 7/7 transformed MI5's operations in the fight against modern threats.
