REDACTED: Declassified Mysteries with Luke Lamana
Wondery | Ballen Studios
Behind the closed doors of government offices and military compounds, are hidden stories and buried secrets from the darkest corners of history. Each week, Luke Lamana, a Marine Corp Reconnaissance Veteran, pulls back the curtain on what once was classified information exposing the secrets and lies behind the world’s most powerful institutions. From the hitmakers at Wondery and Ballen Studios, we bring you REDACTED: Declassified Mysteries with Luke Lamana. The stories are real, and the secrets are shocking. Follow REDACTED: Declassified Mysteries with Luke Lamana on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting https://wondery.com/links/redacted/?ol=wnd~spot~ap~am now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
23 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 40min
The JFK Assassination: New Evidence Reveals The CIA's Fatal Mistake
The podcast delves into the chaos surrounding JFK's assassination and the enigmatic figure of Lee Harvey Oswald. It explores Oswald's troubled past, shedding light on his motivations and the psychological turmoil leading up to that fateful day. The narrative examines his connections with the Cuban consulate and potential CIA oversights, raising questions about conspiracy theories. With fresh evidence and personal reflections from those close to him, the discussion reveals the complexities of Oswald's life against the backdrop of a nation in turmoil.
16 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 34min
The Secret of Churchill’s Anthrax Island
Explore the chilling history of Grunhard Island, where Churchill's wartime experiments on bioweapons left a toxic legacy. A gripping tale unfolds as activists uncover buried secrets about contaminated land and livestock deaths, prompting a confrontation with governmental negligence. The narrative weaves personal fears and societal issues, linking disturbing past experiments to modern ecological threats. As wildfires reignite concerns, the fight for environmental justice highlights the enduring impact of hidden truths on communities.
19 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 33min
The Briefcase Bomb That Could Have Ended World War II
Delve into the high-stakes world of conspiracy as a rogue group of German officers plots to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Discover the harrowing details of failed bomb attempts, including the dramatic moment of Klaus von Stauffenberg's risky execution at the Wolf Slayer headquarters. Unravel the chaos that ensued after the botched coup and the tragic fallout for those involved. Plus, explore the shocking legacy of Georgia Tan and her grim influence on adoption practices in America, highlighting the dark side of a seemingly benevolent institution.
9 snips
May 27, 2025 • 33min
The CIA Puppetmaster Part 2
In a gripping continuation, the podcast delves into the chaotic Bay of Pigs invasion, revealing how Cuban exiles clashed violently with Castro's forces. Tension mounts as President Kennedy grapples with the consequences of U.S. intervention. The fallout is dissected, showcasing contrasting views between CIA Director Dulles and other key players. The discussion then shifts to how this debacle redefined American foreign policy and set the stage for Vietnam, culminating in the Cuban Missile Crisis—an explosive chapter in Cold War history.
9 snips
May 20, 2025 • 36min
The CIA Puppetmaster Part 1
Dive into the intriguing world of Allen Dulles, the CIA director who attempted to outmaneuver Fidel Castro. Uncover how Dulles's manipulation during the 1960 presidential election shaped political outcomes and his own power. Explore the infamous Bay of Pigs operation, its impact on Kennedy, and the complex web of Cold War intrigue. Witness the struggles of exiles as they navigate military training and hidden agendas in their fight against Castro. This captivating narrative reveals the high stakes of intelligence and ambition in an era of turmoil.
34 snips
May 13, 2025 • 44min
America’s Secret UFO Files
The podcast dives into the intriguing history of Project Blue Book, the U.S. Air Force's secret UFO investigation program from the 1950s. A mysterious Cold War incident sets the tone for exploring how skepticism about UFOs shaped public perception. It highlights the tension between military secrecy and scientific inquiry while discussing recent government shifts in acknowledging unexplained aerial phenomena. The conversation even touches on humanity's enduring fascination with extraterrestrial life, inviting listener engagement along the way.
13 snips
May 6, 2025 • 36min
Edward Snowden: Digital Whistleblower
Dive into the gripping tale of Edward Snowden, from a military recruit to a whistleblower exposing government surveillance. Discover the moral dilemmas he faced while working as a CIA systems engineer and the weight of secrets he uncovered. Experience the tension of a clandestine meeting where journalists confront the formidable truth about privacy and accountability. This narrative unpacks the far-reaching implications of Snowden's revelations on the debate over personal liberties and national security.
Apr 29, 2025 • 35min
Snitches Get Stitches: The Frank Serpico Story
In 1960s New York, cop Frank Serpico bravely exposed deep-rooted corruption in the NYPD, risking everything to shine a light on bribery and criminal protection. His quest for justice made him a target among his peers, highlighting the perilous nature of being a whistleblower. The podcast also delves into a violent incident concerning a healthcare CEO, prompting reflections on resilience and societal perceptions. Ultimately, it explores the high personal costs of standing up for integrity and the complex battle against systemic corruption.
Apr 22, 2025 • 40min
Nukes Below Zero
Discover the hidden underground city in Greenland built during the Cold War, initially disguised as a research facility but intended to launch missiles at Russia. Learn about the challenges faced by military teams and the complex political tensions surrounding its creation. Uncover the unintended environmental consequences of this nuclear-powered base and its legacy, which ultimately revolutionized climate science. Dive into a tale of triumph over adversity as personal narratives emerge from this clandestine chapter of history.
Apr 15, 2025 • 36min
The Fake Army That Fooled Hitler
Discover the fascinating story of the Ghost Army, a group of artists and architects who deceived Hitler’s forces during World War II using inflatable tanks and sound effects. Their bold tactics saved countless lives but remained classified for decades. Explore the ethical dilemmas they faced and the tension in their daring missions. Learn about their transition to successful artistic careers after the war, unveiling the long-hidden impact of their creative deception on military strategy.
