Episodes

  • Was Biffy Dunderdale The Real Life Inspiration For 007?

    Was Biffy Dunderdale The Real Life Inspiration For 007?
    Nov 19 2024
    Wilfred "Biffy" Dunderdale: A Life of Espionage On today's Spybrary, host Shane Whaley sat down with Lt. Col. Tim Spicer OBE, author of A Suspicion of Spies: Risk, Secrets and Shadows – The Biography of Wilfred ‘Biffy’ Dunderdale. The book offers a glimpse into the life of this iconic British spy. Drawing upon years of research, Spicer's biography explores the remarkable life of a man who navigated the treacherous world of espionage, leaving an indelible mark on history. Early Life and Introduction to Espionage: Born in Odessa in 1899, Wilfred "Biffy" Dunderdale's life was marked by adventure from a young age. Spicer highlights Dunderdale's multilingual upbringing, fluent in English, Russian, French, Polish, and German, as a key asset in his future espionage career. By 16, Dunderdale was already immersed in naval studies in St. Petersburg, hinting at a future intertwined with maritime affairs. At the tender age of 17, Dunderdale found himself at the helm of an Imperial Russian submarine. In a daring maneuver, he engaged and sank five German ships, an act of valor that earned him the prestigious Order of St. Stanislav and the Order of St. Anne, the highest military honors bestowed by Tsar Nicholas II. This early display of courage and strategic thinking foreshadowed Dunderdale's future successes in the world of espionage. A Career Forged in Conflict: Dunderdale's exceptional language skills paved the way for his recruitment by British Naval Intelligence in 1918. During this time, he conducted numerous intelligence operations in Crimea, distinguishing himself with two Mentions-in-Despatches and a military MBE for his role in suppressing a Bolshevik mutiny aboard the submarine 'Outka'. The Rise of a Spymaster: In 1921, Dunderdale's talents caught the Secret Intelligence Service's (SIS) attention, leading to his posting in Constantinople. His responsibilities expanded to encompass intelligence work in Turkey, the Caucasus, and Southern Russia, further solidifying his reputation within the intelligence community. Dunderdale's meteoric rise within the SIS culminated in his appointment as Head of Station in Paris in 1926, at the remarkably young age of 26. This achievement marked him as the youngest SIS Head of Station ever, a testament to his exceptional abilities and the trust placed in him. In Paris, he collaborated closely with the French Deuxième Bureau, focusing on anti-Bolshevik and, increasingly, anti-Nazi operations. Crucial Contributions to World War II: One of Dunderdale's most significant contributions to the Allied war effort was his involvement with the Enigma machine. Working in conjunction with Polish and French intelligence, he played a key role in the development and understanding of this crucial German encryption device. Notably, Dunderdale facilitated the smuggling of the first Enigma machine to Bletchley Park just before the outbreak of World War II. This daring act provided Allied codebreakers with a critical advantage, enabling them to decipher German communications and significantly contributing to the Allied victory. Throughout World War II, Dunderdale maintained a vast and effective intelligence network in France, gathering invaluable information on German U-boat operations, Normandy's coastal defenses, and the development of V1 and V2 rockets. These intelligence coups proved instrumental in both the D-Day landings and the broader Allied war effort. A Legacy of Espionage and Intrigue: Dunderdale's postwar activities remained shrouded in secrecy. However, his influence continued to be felt in the shadowy world of espionage. Spicer's biography sheds light on Dunderdale's involvement in clandestine operations behind the Iron Curtain, his role in the Suez Crisis, and his connection to the "Buster Crabbe" affair. The Bond Connection: Dunderdale's life story reads like something straight out of a spy novel or 'like Commando comics' says Spybrary Host Shane Whaley. Biffy's long friendship with Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, has fueled speculation about Dunderdale's influence on the iconic character. Many believe that Dunderdale, with his taste for adventure, his network of informants, and his deep understanding of the world of espionage, served as a key inspiration for the suave and resourceful James Bond. Unveiling a Shadowy Figure: Lt. Col. Tim Spicer's A Suspicion of Spies offers a captivating look into the life of one of Britain's most enigmatic and influential spies. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Spicer brings Wilfred "Biffy" Dunderdale out of the shadows, revealing a man who dedicated his life to serving his country in the most clandestine of ways. The biography stands as a testament to Dunderdale's unwavering commitment to his duty, his extraordinary courage, and his lasting impact on the world of espionage. 'An exhaustively researched, detailed and gripping account of the life and dramatic times of ...
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    49 mins
  • The Riveting Life of a Maverick Scottish Spy - Robert Bruce Lockhart

    The Riveting Life of a Maverick Scottish Spy - Robert Bruce Lockhart
    Nov 4 2024

    ‘Compelling and meticulously researched, the riveting life of a maverick Scottish spy.’ Charles Cumming

    Sir Robert Bruce Lockhart, a Scottish diplomat, spy and writer, led a life filled with adventure and intrigue. While his involvement in the famed Lockhart Plot of 1918 is often cited, there is much more to uncover about Robert Bruce Lockhart's life.

    Grab Rogue Agent here: https://geni.us/gk3Qv1

    Join fellow Spy Book Enthusiasts in our Online Community: https://www.spybrary.com/community

    Professor James Crossland, author of the first ever biography on Lockhart, Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart, sheds light on the man behind the myth, exploring his motivations, his complexities, and his lasting impact on the world of espionage.

    James Crossland is a Professor of International History at Liverpool John Moores University. He has worked in both the United Kingdom and Australia, combining his passion for writing with an interest in the history of conflict, terrorism, psychological warfare and intelligence. He authored the first history of Britain's humanitarian response to the Second World War, "Britain and the International Committee of the Red Cross, 1939-1945", the story of the men and women who tried to bring rules to modern warfare, "War, Law and Humanity: the Campaign to Control Warfare, 1853-1914" and, most recently, the history of terrorism in the late nineteenth century, "The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism".

    James' latest book is a passion project over a decade in the making - "Rogue Agent: From Secret Operations to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart". This is the first biography of the man who led a plot to destroy Bolshevism in Russia in 1918 and ran Britain's secret psychological warfare campaign against the Nazis during the Second World War, all whilst becoming a best-selling author and one of the most-well connected political agents in Europe.
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    37 mins
  • Nick Harkaway On Karla's Choice, Writing in His Father's World, George Smiley and More.

    Nick Harkaway On Karla's Choice, Writing in His Father's World, George Smiley and More.
    Oct 23 2024

    Karla's Choice sees the return of John le Carré's George Smiley. Today we're joined by his son, the author Nick Harkaway, along with John le Carré fans Steve Ritterman and Matthew Bradford, Our host Shane Whaley hosts this fascinating discussion about Harkaway’s foray into his father John le Carré's iconic universe, particularly his latest novel Karla's Choice.

    Nick Harkaway shares his unique journey of bridging the narrative gaps between familiar stories like The Spy Who Came In From The Cold and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, highlighting his creative freedom and the challenges of inheriting such a revered literary legacy. He explains the pleasure and pressure of developing beloved characters like George Smiley and delving into lesser-explored figures of the Circus and its enemies.

    Listeners will enjoy insights into the intricate balancing act of character development.. We also explore the complex relationships within the espionage world, emphasising the human element and emotional depth that drive these spy narratives.

    Harkaway's admiration for his father's work is palpable, and his thoughtful approach to writing Karlas Choice within the established George Smiley universe will resonate with both seasoned fans and new readers alike. Don't miss this episode packed with literary reflections, historical intrigue, and the timeless allure of spy fiction. Nick also shares more about life growing up with John le Carrè, the Circus and reveals his favourite John le Carré novels.

    Tune in and join the conversation on the latest chapter in the Smiley saga!

    Join the free Spybrary Community today and share your opinion on the return of George Smiley.
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Spybrary’s Future: Mission On or Fade Into the Cold? Episode 250

    Spybrary’s Future: Mission On or Fade Into the Cold? Episode 250
    Oct 16 2024

    We have made it to Episode 250! Hear this special message from Spybrary founder Shane Whaley talking about Spybrary's future as well as a fun conversation

    Spybrarians, I need your intel!

    Eight years ago, I never imagined I'd be here, asking this question. When I launched the Spybrary Podcast, I had no idea we'd build a community of fellow spy enthusiasts that’s still going strong after 249 episodes of declassified interviews, thrilling brush pass reviews, and deep dives with fellow spy fans.

    But here's the thing… I’m at a bit of a crossroads.

    Do we keep the mission going, digging deeper into the world of espionage, bringing you even more author interviews, book reviews, and spy content? Or has the time come to hang up the trench coat, pull the plug on the dead drop, and fade back into the cold?

    That’s where you come in. I need your honest feedback to decide our next move. If you’ve been enjoying the ride with Spybrary, it’s time to let me know what you think.

    Please take a few minutes to fill out this listener survey. Your input will steer the future of Spybrary and help us decide if it’s mission on… or mission over.

    https://spybrary.com/feedback

    Your intel will decide what happens next. Spybrary is more than just a podcast—it’s a community. And this decision isn’t mine to make alone. So, what’s it to be, Spybrarians? One last mission, or time to go back into the cold?

    I appreciate each of you for being part of this incredible operation. Now, let’s figure out what comes next—together.

    You can have your say - please complete our listener survey.
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    18 mins
  • Cold War Spy Stories - The True Story of Jack Downey, America’s Longest-Held Prisoner of War

    Cold War Spy Stories - The True Story of Jack Downey, America’s Longest-Held Prisoner of War
    Oct 7 2024
    In this fascinating episode of the Spybrary Spy History Podcast, host Adam Brookes interviews Barry Werth author of Prisoner of Lies: Jack Downey's Cold War. This remarkable true cold war spy story of the longest-held prisoner of war in American history, John Downey, Jr., a CIA officer captured in China during the Korean War and imprisoned for twenty-one years. We invite you to join our host, author and former BBC reporter Adam Brookes, and guest Barry Werth on the Spybrary Spy History Podcast as they dive deep into the harrowing Cold War saga of Jack Downey in Prisoner of Lies. Grab Your Top 125 Spy Writers Ranked dossier! Ranked and with spy book recommendations. Discover the untold stories of espionage, resilience, and international diplomacy that shaped U.S.-China relations. Unveil the gripping narrative of Jack Downey's capture, imprisonment, and eventual release, set against a backdrop of covert operations, political machinations, and the enduring human spirit. Don't miss this thrilling exploration of "Prisoner of Lies" and the profound impact of espionage on international affairs in Barry Werth's latest book. More about Jack Downey Jr. In 1952, 23-year-old CIA officer Jack Downey Jr's mission took a devastating turn when his plane was shot down over Manchuria during the Korean War. Surviving the crash that claimed the pilots' lives, Downey and his fellow agent, Richard Fecteau, were seized by Chinese forces. What followed was a grueling two-decade ordeal of interrogations, isolation, reeducation camps, and staged trials, as they were paraded as symbols of political propaganda. While other prisoners of war found freedom, Downey and Fecteau remained trapped, their fate tied to a diplomatic stalemate. It wasn’t until Nixon’s groundbreaking visit to China in 1971 that hope emerged, leading to Fecteau’s release that same year and Downey’s eventual return in 1973. Episode Summary: In this riveting episode, Adam Brookes sits down with Barry Werth to delve into the extraordinary story of Jack Downey, a CIA officer captured and imprisoned in communist China during the height of the Cold War. Werth's meticulous research for his book Prisoner of Lies provides a gripping account of Downey Jr's endurance, complex diplomatic maneuvers, and early CIA covert operations. Key Episode Highlights: Captured and Shackled: Discover the harrowing details of how CIA officer Jack Downey, Jr and was captured, shackled, and interrogated by the Chinese. Hear how he endured life in shackles and isolation, maintaining their resilience under harsh captivity conditions.Confession and Survival: Learn about Downey. Jr's strategic delay in confessing his CIA affiliation, spanning eleven months, and culminating in a 3,000-page document meant to obscure pertinent details amidst a surplus of information.Bureaucratic Blunders and Family Heartbreak: Understand the critical role of the US government's denial of Downey. Jr's involvement, how this impacted his detainment, and the anguish faced by the families.Negotiations and Diplomacy: Explore how the convoluted politics and diplomatic negotiations for their release spanned multiple US administrations, revealing the significant impact of these efforts on US-China relations leading up to their normalization in the early 1970s.Jack Downey Jr's Resilience: Barry Werth highlights Downey's unyielding spirit, maintaining rigorous routines and an idealistic outlook despite his prolonged imprisonment. His story underscores the importance of resilience and patriotism.CIA’s Early Covert Operations: Gain insights into the CIA’s early initiatives, the risks and challenges involved, and the broader historical context, including the Cold War tensions post-World War II and the initial failures of CIA operations.Influence of Yale: Reflect on Yale University's influence on Downey and his peers, shaping their leadership qualities and driving their patriotic stoicism, influenced further by the experiences and aftermath of World War II. Special Segment: Barry Werth discusses the complex and skilled diplomacy by President Nixon and Henry Kissinger, examining how Downey's release was eventually facilitated, signaling a subtle yet significant shift in US policy towards China. Exclusive Look into the Book: "Prisoner of Lies: Jack Downey's Cold War" by Barry Werth, offering an in-depth narrative and analysis drawn from extensive research and personal accounts.
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    47 mins
  • Ian Fleming's The Spy Who Loved Me Book Debate- The James Bond Book Club

    Ian Fleming's The Spy Who Loved Me Book Debate- The James Bond Book Club
    Sep 30 2024

    Prepare to experience Ian Fleming's James Bond novels as if reading them for the first time in the year of publication as we embark on this 007 James Bond literary adventure together.

    Shane Whaley - Spybrary Podcast Host

    Are you a fan of the Ian Fleming James Bond books? If so, you won't want to miss the latest episode of the James Bond Book Club presented by Spybrary. In this episode, host Shane Whaley and guests David Craggs, Andy Onyx, Frieda Toth and Hildebrand's Ian Douglas dive deep into Ian Fleming's controversial and highly divisive novel The Spy Who Loved Me (1962) as if they are in the year of publication.

    This episode is also available to watch on YouTube.

    What do you think of The Spy Who Loved Me? Join the conversation in our world famous Spybrary community - https://www.spybrary.com/community

    Grab our list of the top 125 spy writers - ranked and with suggestions - https://www.spybrary.com/top125

    The Spybrary Spy Podcast panel provide fascinating analysis and insight into The Spy Who Loved Me plot, characters, and writing style. You'll hear their thoughts on how Ian Fleming's latest James Bond novel compares to other James Bond novels and get a glimpse into the success of Ian Fleming's writing. Whether you're a die-hard James Bond fan or love a good book club style discussion, this episode offers a detailed and engaging look at The Spy Who Loved Me and all its elements. Tune in now to join the conversation!

    We discuss the artwork, the plot, the villains, the locations, the femme fatale, the allies, and the glamour.

    All that and much more on the latest edition of the James Bond Book Club, available on all good podcast apps and at the link in the first comment. Will you join us in 1962?
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    59 mins
  • To Catch A Spy -How the Spycatcher Affair Brought MI5 in from the Cold with Tim Tate

    To Catch A Spy -How the Spycatcher Affair Brought MI5 in from the Cold with Tim Tate
    Sep 24 2024

    In this riveting episode of the Spybrary Spy Podcast, guest host David Clark is joined by author and investigative journalist Tim Tate to dissect his latest espionage non-fiction book To Catch A Spy which examines the enigmatic and controversial history surrounding Roger Hollis, the former MI5 Director General, Margaret Thatcher, Peter Wright and the explosive Spycatcher affair!

    'Researched like an intelligence officer, argued like a barrister, and as engaging and intriguing as a Le Carré, Tate presents a critical and compelling analysis which makes for both a fascinating and disturbing portrayal of how a government treated truth, justice, and public accountability with disdain.'

    Simon Ball, International Association For Intelligence Education European Chapter

    What do you think? Was Hollis maligned or was he indeed a Soviet spy? Share your opinion with other spy history enthusiasts in our Spybrary Community.
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Gary Oldman on Bringing Jackson Lamb (Slow Horses) to Life

    Gary Oldman on Bringing Jackson Lamb (Slow Horses) to Life
    Sep 18 2024

    In this captivating episode of the Spybrary Spy Podcast, join host Shane Whaley as he sits down briefly with the legendary actor Gary Oldman, who portrays the enigmatic Jackson Lamb in the hit TV adaptation of Mick Heron's "Slow Horses." Gary Oldman reveals how Jackson Lamb first appeared on his radar and the differences working with spy authors Mick Herron and John le Carré on Slow Horses and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.

    A big thank you to Catherine Spillane and Gary 'The Fixer' Dexter for arranging this short but sweet chat with Gary Oldman.

    Join 4000 other spy fans talking spy books, spy movies, spy history and spy tv shows in our free online community
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    7 mins