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Ralph - A prisoner in an East German jail (182)
12 juni 2021 · 1 uur 6 min
This is the third and final part of Ralph Hänel’s story of his life in East Germany.
In this episode, we hear his time in the Stasi prison in Cottbus which with its dark red brick façade was often referred to as the ‘Red Misery’.
It’s a chilling insight into Stasi prison conditions and the brutality that the political prisoners endured from the other inmates and the guards.
We also hear about Ralph’s eventual release and of some strange experiences he has in reunited Germany
Again I am honoured and humbled that Ralph shared this story with us.
I could really use your support to help me to continue the produce the podcast. A small monthly donation entitles you to the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us and sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Ralph back to our Cold War conversation…
Further information on this episode can also be found here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode182/
Other episodes with Ralph are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode177/ and here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode181/ You can buy Ralph's book here
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook or click here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.
Radio GDR
If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Ralph - Arrested and interrogated by the Stasi (181)
5 juni 2021 · 1 uur 4 min
In this second part of Ralph Hänel’s story of his life in East Germany.
We hear of Ralph’s arrest by the Stasi and subsequent interrogation for 10 months.
Ralph describes in some detail the arrest and his early days of imprisonment. He also details the techniques used to try and make him break and the pressure the Stasi also put on his mother.
It’s an incredible insight into the workings of the Stasi from someone who was there and I am honoured that Ralph shared this story with us.
We also hear about his court case and in the following episode we hear about his time in the Stasi prison in Cottbus which with its dark red brick façade was often referred to as the ‘Red Misery’.
I could really use your support to continue the podcast. A simple monthly donation via Patreon, plus as a monthly supporter you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Ralph to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. Other episodes with Ralph are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode177/ and here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode182/ You can buy Ralph's book here
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook or click here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/ Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
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Checkmate in Berlin: The Cold War Showdown that Shaped the Modern World (180)
29 mei 2021 · 1 uur 13 min
We speak with author Giles Milton about his new book Checkmate in Berlin: The Cold War Showdown that Shaped the Modern World.
In 1945 at the end of World War 2 the Soviet Red Army captured Berlin. For the next four years, a handful of charismatic but flawed individuals – British, American and Soviet – fought an intensely personal battle over the future of Germany, Europe and the entire free world.
Checkmate in Berlin tells this exhilarating, high-stakes tale of grit, skullduggery, and raw power. From the high politics of Yalta to the desperate scramble to break the Soviet stranglehold of Berlin with the greatest aerial operation in history, this is the epic story of the first battle of the Cold War and how it shaped the modern world.
Now, I could really use your support to continue the podcast. A simple monthly donation via Patreon, will get you the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and you’ll bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Giles Milton to our Cold War conversation…
There’s a book giveaway and further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode180/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.
Radio GDR
If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.
Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
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Bonus - The state funeral of Josef Stalin (179)
26 mei 2021 · 46 min
This episode is sponsored by MUBI, a curated streaming service with an ever-changing collection of hand-picked cinema. From new directors to award-winners. From everywhere on earth. Beautiful, interesting, incredible films — with a new one added every single day.
Right now on MUBI, you can watch STATE FUNERAL, an astonishing archival vision of the Soviet Union in the days after Joseph Stalin’s death. The film is followed by a Q&A with director Sergei Loznitsa in conversation with Pietro Marcello (Martin Eden).
James Chilcott, Peter Ryan and I had exclusive access to a preview version and in today’s episode we discuss our thoughts on the film. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations
0:00 Introduction and Sponsor: Mubi
0:44 Discussion on the film "State Funeral" and first impressions
6:06 Power dynamics after Stalin's death and potential successors
10:27 Observations on foreign delegations and British Communist Party's delegation
14:26 Analysis of the film's cinematography and reactions to Stalin's death
19:10 Origin and unseen footage of the film
20:24 Influence of the film on younger generations
22:48 Personal anecdotes and the fate of Stalin's family members
28:53 Review of the film and Sponsor: Mubi
31:14 Insights into the life of average Soviet citizens and stereotypes
35:23 Body language in the film and reflections on the speeches
39:31 The film as a representation of Soviet Union in 1953 and recommendation
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Spy who was left out in the Cold: The Secret History of Agent Goleniewski (178)
22 mei 2021 · 1 uur 30 min
We speak with author Tim Tate about his new book the Spy who was left out in the Cold: The Secret History of Agent Goleniewski
Michal Goleniewski remains one of the most important, yet least known and most misunderstood spies of the Cold War. Even his death is shrouded in mystery and he has been written out of the history of Cold War espionage - until now.
Tim Tate draws on a wealth of previously unpublished primary source documents to tell the dramatic true story of the best spy the west ever lost - of how Goleniewski exposed hundreds of KGB agents operating undercover in the West; from George Blake and the 'Portland Spy Ring', to a senior Swedish Air Force and NATO officer and a traitor inside the Israeli government. The information he produced devastated intelligence services on both sides of the Iron Curtain.
I could really use your support to continue the podcast. A simple monthly donation via Patreon, will as a monthly supporter get you the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Tim Tate to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our episode notes which can also be found here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode178
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
Youtube https://youtube.… Lees meer -
Ralph - DJing and Kung Fu in East Germany (177)
15 mei 2021 · 1 uur 28 min
Ralph Hänel tells some unique, strange and funny short stories about childhood and youth in East Germany.
We talk about the experiences of his parents in the closing stages of World War 2, his schooling, and how he became a DJ, winning a trip to the Soviet Union.
Ralph is a great raconteur with virtually endless stories about his life in East Germany. Hear how he saw Fidel Castro, met the first German astronaut in space and had a girlfriend, whose father was in the people’s police or was it the Stasi...?
Ralph had a passion for martial arts, but in East Germany that wasn’t easy to pursue. Listen as Ralph tells how he found secret clubs and smuggled books into the country.
However, his interest in martial arts brought him under suspicion and don’t miss subsequent episodes where Ralph’s life takes a turn for the worst when he is arrested by the Stasi and sentenced to 3 and half years in prison.
I could really use your support to continue the podcast. A small monthly donation via Patreon is ideal, plus you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Ralph to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our episode notes which can also be found here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode177/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening.
Radio GDR
If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconve…
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Irish Army peacekeeping in the Lebanon (176)
8 mei 2021 · 59 min
Adrian Jones was commissioned as a lieutenant in the Irish Army in 1983. As a 23 year old officer he served in the United Nations Peacekeeping Force UNIFIL in Southern Lebanon from 1987 to 1988.
The Irish battalion consisted of 580 personnel which were rotated every six months, plus almost 100 others in UNIFIL headquarters and the Force Mobile Reserve. In all, 30,000 Irish soldiers served in Lebanon over 23 years.
The Irish troops in Lebanon were initially intended to supervise the withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces from the area after an invasion in 1978 and to prevent fighting between the Palestine Liberation Organization forces and Israel, however beginning in 1985, the Israeli army scaled back its numbers, remaining only in support of the South Lebanon Army in Southern Lebanon which was fighting the newly established Iranian proxy spinoff of the Amal movement – the Arab Shia Hezbollah.
We hear about Irish officer training, the position of Irish neutrality during the Cold War. Among many subjects Adrian also talks about the challenges of his peacekeeping mission, rules of engagement and the deaths of Irish peacekeepers.
Extra info, book details and videos are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode176/
Now I need help to continue to track down these unknown stories of the Cold war and ensure they are preserved before they are lost. If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to pledge a small monthly amount per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you helping preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
James Chilcott is your host today and I am delighted to welcome Adrian Jones to our Cold War conversation… Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Codename Hero - Soviet double agent Oleg Penkovsky (175)
1 mei 2021 · 51 min
In August 1960, a Soviet colonel called Oleg Penkovsky contacted the West to offer to work as a 'soldier warrior for the free world. MI6 and the CIA ran Penkovsky jointly, in an operation that ran through the showdown over Berlin and the Cuban Missile Crisis.
He provided crucial intelligence, including photographs of rocket manuals that helped Kennedy end the Cuba crisis and avert a war. Codenamed HERO, Penkovsky is widely seen as the most important spy of the Cold War, and the CIA-MI6 operation, run as the world stood on the brink of nuclear destruction.
We speak with Jeremy Duns, the author of Dead Drop also called Codename Hero in the US which investigates exactly how did the Russians detect Penkovsky, and why did they let him continue his contact with his handlers for months afterwards? Described as thrilling, evocative and hugely controversial, the book blows apart the myths surrounding one of the Cold War's greatest spy operations.
Extra info, book details and videos are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode175/
If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help us grow the number of listeners.
Now I need help to continue to track down these unknown stories of the Cold war and ensure they are preserved before they are lost. If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to pledge a small monthly amount per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you helping preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
I am delighted to welcome Jeremy Duns to our Cold War conversation…
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook. Lees meerSupport th…
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Korean war veteran & prisoner of war (174)
24 april 2021 · 1 uur 25 min
70 years ago today would have been the middle of a desperate battle by outnumbered British forces at the battle of the Imjin River in Korea. The Korean War was among the most destructive conflicts of the modern era, and one of the few times when the Cold War turned hot. There were approximately 3 million war fatalities and a larger proportional civilian death toll than World War II or the Vietnam War.
Tommy Clough is one of the last survivors of the battle of the Imjin River and was just 19 when the Gloucestershire Regiment were cut off from their brigade by more than 10,000 Chinese troops in 1951. Outnumbered and surrounded, they dug in on a hilltop for three days, repelling attack after attack until their ammunition ran out. The battle of the Imjin River was one of the most famous of the Korean War.
We hear in detail Tommy’s experiences in the days up to the battle, as well as the desperate fighting to hold off the Chinese army as food, water and ammunition ran out.
Inevitably the Gloucestershire Regiment was forced to surrender and Tommy's story continues, with the hardship and privation of the 500 miles march to their prisoner of war camp. Following an escape attempt, Tommy is held and handcuffed for 6 weeks in solitary confinement including a lengthy period held in a small cage.
It’s an incredible story of fortitude and resilience under the most extreme circumstances and I am so humbled and honoured to be able to share this story with you. I’d like to thank The History of War magazine for putting me in contact with the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum and subsequently Tommy. Lees meerExtra info and videos are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode174/
If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help us grow the number of listeners.
Now I need help to continue to track down these unknown stories of the Cold war and ensure they are preserved before they are l… -
A journalist in apartheid South Africa (173)
17 april 2021 · 54 min
John Matisonn is a South African journalist who grew up in the suburbs in Johannesburg. In 1979 he was sentenced to jail for refusing to reveal his news sources.
Matisonn describes life as a journalist in apartheid South Africa as well as his meetings with some of the key South African personalities of that period. He met with several South African Prime leaders including John Vorster, PW Botha and FW de Klerk who eventually oversaw the end of white majority rule. Also included are details of several meetings Matisonn had with Nelson Mandela the first black President of South Africa.
We also hear about Soviet training for African National Congress leaders and the South African nuclear weapons programme.
Now I could really use your support to help me to continue to produce these podcasts. A monthly donation of $4, £3 or €3 via Patreon will really and you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
Special thanks to several listeners who left 5 star reviews including Louth23, monster ceilidh band and Mortificating.
Peter Ryan is our interviewer today and I am delighted to welcome John Matisonn to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our episode notes which can be found here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode173/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.… -
Yuri Gagarin - The first human in space (172)
10 april 2021 · 1 uur 16 min
9.07 a.m., April 12, 1961. A top-secret rocket site in the USSR. A young Russian sits inside a tiny capsule on top of the Soviet Union’s most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile and blasts into the skies. His name is Yuri Gagarin. And he is about to make history.
We speak with Stephen Walker author of “Beyond” a new book that tells the thrilling story behind that epic flight on its sixtieth anniversary.
Drawing on extensive original research and the vivid testimonies of eyewitnesses, many of whom have never spoken before, Stephen unpacks secrets that were hidden for decades and takes you into the drama of one of humanity's greatest adventures. Now I thought I knew Gagarins’s story, but discovered so much more after reading this book. The episode just scratches the surface and there is so much more in the book itself, Stephen and I could have talked for hours.
This podcast wouldn’t exist without the generous support of our Patreons If you are enjoying the podcast, and want to continue to hear it please support me via a small (or large) monthly donation. Plus, you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Stephen Walker to our Cold War conversation…
There are a book giveaway and further information on this episode in our episode notes here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode172/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye. Lees meerSupport the project! https://cold…
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Confrontation at the Stößensee (171)
3 april 2021 · 46 min
In April 1966, a state-of-the-art Soviet aircraft, the Yak-28P crashed into the British Sector of West Berlin. This intelligence gift to the Allied forces resulted in a tense confrontation with the Soviet forces
We speak with historian Bernd von Kostka of the Allied Museum in Berlin-Dahlem who has researched this story for his upcoming book Capital of Spies: Intelligence agencies in Berlin during the Cold War which he co-authors with Sven Felix Kellerhoff.
The book will be published in October in the US and in December 2021 in GB.
This podcast wouldn’t exist without the generous support of our Patreons so if you are enjoying the podcast, you can show your support via a small (or large) monthly donation. Plus you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us and sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I’d like to thanks Beam2, Woodhead4780 and Tree Fella. for their 5-star reviews on Apple Podcasts
I am delighted to welcome Bernd to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode171
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode, visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction a…
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A 22 year old Briton working in East Germany (170)
27 maart 2021 · 1 uur 5 min
We speak with Chris Summers who as a 22 year old was sent by his employers to East Germany in a Ford Escort to install British factory machinery. He provides us with interesting insights into life in the provinces of the GDR.
Long term listeners of the podcast will recognise one of Chris’s colleagues was Tim, husband of Antje who was our guest in episode 82 “A Cold War Romance” available here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode82/
Chris was also sent to Poland, the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia where he tells what he saw and experienced in the latter half of the 1980s.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you helping preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
I am delighted to welcome Chris Summers to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode170/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated
Radio GDR
If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.
Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations Lees meer0:00 Introduction and toast anecdote
0:50 Interview with Chris Summers about his work with Detexamat in East Germany
15:39 Experiencing nightlife in East Germany
20:26 In… -
Bonus - Soviet Tours (169)
24 maart 2021 · 42 min
Soviet Tours is a Berlin-based tour operator focussed on off-the-beaten-path destinations across the globe.
Their core area, as the name suggests, lies mainly in and around the former USSR. From the mystic forests of Central Siberia to the austere peaks of the High Caucasus, from the scorching deserts of the Soviet Stans to the windswept steppes of Southern Russia.
We talk with the founder of Soviet Tours Gianluca Pardelli. He is a Berlin-based photojournalist, adventurer and travel author who is fascinated by that enigmatic country that was once known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
If you are enjoying the podcast, you can show your support via a monthly donation of $4, £3 or €3 via Patreon, plus you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show. Lees meerImage by Arsenyi Kotov https://www.instagram.com/northern.friend/
Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction and background of Gianluca Pardelli
4:07 The birth of Gianluca's interest in the Soviet Union
8:01 Unique itineraries offered by Soviet Tours
13:41 Ethics of photographing locals during tours
18:45 The remote autonomous republics in the former Soviet Union
24:03 Soviet Tours' expansion into Africa
27:12 Short tours and volunteer programs
33:56 Favorite region of the former Soviet Union
35:46 Contact information for Gianluca Pardelli and Soviet Tours
36:14 Acknowledging patrons and sponsors
Chapters powe… -
Commanding a Cold War Royal Navy Polaris Nuclear Missile Submarine (168)
20 maart 2021 · 1 uur 26 min
Our conversation with Rob Forsyth continues when he became Executive Officer - and in command on occasions - of HMS Repulse, a Polaris nuclear missile submarine.
We hear in detail the challenges of command on these boats, their launch procedures and the conversations Rob had with his captain about the circumstances when they might refuse to launch the missiles.
Rob tells of many fascinating incidents including a very close encounter with the Malin Head AGI, a notorious Soviet Spy trawler.
We also hear about his promotion to “Teacher” or instructor for the Submarine Commanding Officers’ Qualifying Course aka “The Perisher” and his command of HMS Sceptre, a nuclear powered "hunter-killer" submarine.
In the last section of our conversations, Rob tells us why his views on the British nuclear deterrent have changed. You can read more here http://www.whytrident.uk/
I could really use your support to help me to continue to produce these podcasts. A monthly donation of $4, £3 or €3 via Patreon will really help, plus you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Rob Forsyth to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode168/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com… -
Cold War Royal Navy Diesel Submarine officer during the 1960s and 70s (167)
13 maart 2021 · 1 uur 9 min
Commander Rob Forsyth joined submarines in1961. By March 1962 as a young officer, he joined HMS Auriga a 1945 vintage diesel submarine. Within 7 months the 22-year-old was loading live torpedoes and preparing for a war mission during the tense days of the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Robs tell of many fascinating incidents in his career including under-ice operations and an incident where Rob's captain made an error that almost resulted in the total loss of submarine and crew.
He also details what it was like to take the Submarine Commanding Officers’ Qualifying Course aka “The Perisher”. This six-month course is a prerequisite for the command of a submarine. Failure means your submarine career “perishes”.
I could really use your support to help me to continue to produce these podcasts. A monthly donation of $4, £3 or €3 via Patreon will really help, plus you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Rob Forsyth to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode167/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
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Jan - Greenham Common Peace Protester (166)
6 maart 2021 · 40 min
Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp was a protest camp established in 1981 to protest against the deployment of USAF controlled Ground Launched nuclear armed Cruise Missiles at RAF Greenham Common in Berkshire, England.
On the eve of International Women’s’ Day 2021 I talk with Jan Castro-Fraser who chose to challenge the existence of nuclear weapons during the Cold War.
We talk about her experiences at Greenham Common Peace Camp and other demonstrations in the 1980s as well as how her experiences in the peace movement changed her, empowered her and made her who she is today.
If you are enjoying the podcast, you can show your support via a monthly donation of $4, £3 or €3 via Patreon, plus you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Jan to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode166/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction and guest Jan Castro Fraser's experiences at Greenham Common Peace Camp
1:36 Appeal for financial support
6:19 Living conditions and political discussions at the p… -
The China civil war and the independence of Taiwan (165)
27 februari 2021 · 59 min
The events of 1949 in China reverberated across the world and throughout the rest of the century. That tumultuous year saw the dramatic collapse of Chiang Kai-shek's 'pro-Western' Nationalist government, overthrown by Mao Zedong and his communist armies, and the foundation of the People's Republic of China.
I talk with author Graham Hutchings who has written a vivid, gripping account of China in 1949 and the formation of an independent Taiwan. We discuss, the politics, the military campaigns, and the legendary Amethyst Incident where a British warship became embroiled in the Chinese Civil War.
If you are enjoying the podcast, you can show your support via a monthly donation of $4, £3 or €3 via Patreon, plus you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Graham Hutchings to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode and a book giveaway in our episode notes which can also be found on this link. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode165
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction
1:02 Interview with author Graham Hutchings about the Chinese Civil War
10:32 Analysi… -
The Happy Traitor - The Life of Soviet Spy George Blake (164)
20 februari 2021 · 1 uur 3 min
Acclaimed author and journalist Simon Kuper, has written The Happy Traitor, the story of British spy and Soviet Union double agent George Blake, the last major British traitor of the Cold War.
In 1961, Blake was sentenced to forty-two years imprisonment – at the time, the longest sentence in modern British history. He had betrayed all the western spying operations that he knew about to the KGB. This included the names of hundreds of British agents working around the world. About forty of them are believed to have been executed. Blake is reckoned to have done as much damage to British interests as did his Moscow companions Kim Philby and Donald Maclean – perhaps more.
Today, his story is known only to a few experts, and only insofar as anything can be known for certain in the world of deceit that is spying. MI6 has never made its files on him public. Now that the master spy has died, Simon Kuper finally sets the story straight. He unravels who Blake truly was through a combination of personal interviews, research in many languages, and use of almost unseen Stasi archives. His illuminating biography tracks Blake from his beginnings as a teenage courier for the Dutch underground during the Second World War, to his sensational prison-break from Wormwood Scrubs, to his tranquil old age in a dacha outside Moscow, where Kuper caught up with and interviewed him.
There is more information in our episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode164/ Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction and Sponsor: Profile Books
1:27 George Blake's early life and recruitment into the Secret Intelligence Service
10:23 Blake's role in the early stages of the Cold War and conversion to Communism
20:38 Blake's betrayal, spying activ… -
From Foe to Friend - the British Army in Cold War Germany (163)
13 februari 2021 · 1 uur 5 min
Germany has been at the heart of the British Army's story since 1945. After the Second World War, the Army helped rebuild a devastated and divided nation. It provided protection during the Cold War, and later used Germany as a base from which to deploy troops across the world.
Foe to Friend is a major exhibition at The National Army Museum in London that follows the lives of British soldiers in Germany over the past 75 years.
Enjoy an expert visit as Cold War Conversations co-host James takes you on a tour with the lead curator, Dr Peter Johnston
If you are enjoying the podcast, you can show your support via a monthly donation of $4, £3 or €3 via Patreon, plus you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
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If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome James and Dr Peter Johnston to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode163/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
0:00 Introduction
3:17 Introduction of James and Dr. Peter Johnston, and overview of the British Army's history in Germany
10:10 Discussion about the BrixMis car and other artifacts on display at the exhibition
16:05 Tales of bravery: Anthony Hall's exploration of a Soviet gunnery range
20:34 Testimonies from Lieutenant Colonel Dan Wilde and Michael Systems on the tense situation in Cold War Germany
25:10 The reality of life for British soldiers: Training, suits, and pamph… Lees meer -
On Her Majesty's Cold War Nuclear Submarine Service (162)
6 februari 2021 · 1 uur 29 min
Commodore Eric Thompson MBE is the author of the book “On Her Majesty’s Nuclear Service. He is a career nuclear submarine officer who served from the first days of the Polaris missile boats until after the end of the Cold War. He joined the Navy in the last days of Empire, made his first sorties in World War II type submarines, and went on to become the top Engineer in charge of the Royal Navy’s operational nuclear submarine force based at Faslane.
In this vivid personal account of his submarine operations, he reveals top-secret submarine patrols, hush-hush scientific trials, and a chat with British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
It is essentially a human story, rich in both drama and comedy, like the Russian spy trawler that played dance music at passing submarines. There was never a dull moment. Behind the lighter moments was a deadly serious game. Eric’s chat reveals some the secretive life of submarines and the men who served on them.
If you donate monthly via Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee you will get the sought after CWC coaster and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I’d like to thank some of our recent reviewers incldung Faye Dingaway, Syb 1, Cold War Gav and Romford Stu.
I am delighted to welcome Eric Thompson to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode162/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciate… Lees meer -
Advanced English studies in Moscow during the 1970s and 80s (161)
30 januari 2021 · 55 min
Vadim was at school in Moscow during the 1970s and 80s. He attended an Advanced English Studies School where all subjects were taught, however the focus was on English.
He provides us with insights into the setup of Soviet education as well as the school life, teaching methods and pop culture.
We hear how the British newspaper “Morning Star” was a key teaching aid for Soviet English students.
Now I know some of you skip this bit, but if you want to continue hearing these Cold War stories I’m asking listeners to pledge a monthly donation of at least $4, £3 or €3 per month to help keep the podcast on the air, although larger amounts are welcome too.
If you donate monthly via Patreon you will get the sought after CWC and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
Peter Ryan conducts the interview for us and I am delighted to welcome Vadim to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode161/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction and Vadim's education in the Soviet Union
2:08 Interview with Vadim begins
7:26 The impac… -
US Army Intelligence gathering in the unified Germany (160)
23 januari 2021 · 45 min
We continue the story of Bill, a US Army Intelligence Analyst with Combined Analysis Detachment-Berlin (CAD-B) from episode 127. Germany has now been re-unified and Russian troops have withdrawn from East Germany. Bill tells us of the little known story of continued US Army involvement in intelligence gathering alongside the German security services, the BND.
We hear about "Operation Giraffe", described as the largest intelligence service procurement campaign of the West since the end of World War II, how Russian sources recruited during the Cold War were managed and, how Britain’s MI6 was cut out of receiving the information they had received freely during the Cold War.
Bill tells us of a joint BND/CIA mission to monitor the disposal of Russian nuclear weapons.
It’s a fascinating look into the murky world of human intelligence gathering, corruption, and rivalry in the immediate post Cold War period.
I could really use your support to help me to continue to produce these podcasts. A monthly donation of $4, £3 or €3 via Patreon will really help and you will get the sought after Cold War Conversations coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Thanks to all our latest supporters including Tim Simmons, Fredrik Lundberg, Mary J O’Grady, Robert Ritchie, and Katie Brown.
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Bill to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here.
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank… Lees meer -
A freedom fighter in the 1956 Hungarian Revolution (159)
16 januari 2021 · 55 min
Charlie was 19 in 1956. A trip home from work by tram ended up with him being thrust into the heart of the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, a nationwide revolution against the Hungarian People's Republic and its Soviet-imposed policies, lasting from 23 October until 10 November 1956.
I’m in conversation with Charlie and his daughter Angela as Charlie describes how he and his friends attacked the Communist held Budapest radio station and graphically details his experiences and what he saw during those momentous days.
He also recalls his escape from Hungary and his later life in Wales and return visit to the country of his birth while it was still within the orbit of the Soviet Union.
I do need your help to allow me to find the time to continue producing and preserving these Cold War stories.
I’m asking listeners to pledge a monthly donation of at least $4, £3 or €3 per month to help keep the podcast on the air, although larger amounts are welcome too.
As a thank you you will get the sought-after Cold War Conversations drinks coaster and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Charlie and Angela to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode including photos and videos in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode159/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.faceb… -
Witness to the Eastern Bloc revolutions of the 1980s with Professor Timothy Garton Ash (158)
9 januari 2021 · 1 uur 14 min
Professor Timothy Garton Ash is a British historian, author, commentator and Professor of European Studies at Oxford University. Professor Garton Ash witnessed some of the most critical moments in the Eastern Bloc during the 1980s as these populations threw off Communist rule.
He provides us with vivid details of his time in East Germany, Gdansk, Poland where in 1980 the first free trade union in the Eastern Bloc was formed, and his time with then dissident Vaclav Havel when the Czechoslovak Communist government resigned in 1989.
Professor Garton Ash genuinely had a front row seat to history and provides us with fascinating and profound analysis of those incredible years.
I do really need your help to allow me to find the time to continue producing and preserving these Cold War stories.
I’m asking is for listeners to pledge a monthly donation of at least $4, £3 or €3 per month to help keep the podcast on the air, although larger amounts are welcome too.
If you donate monthly via Patreon you will get the sought after CWC and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Professor Garton Ash to our Cold War conversation… Lees meerUK listeners - Professor Garton Ash's books are available here
US listeners - Professor Garton Ash's books are available here
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode158/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really… -
Ian Black - Flying the English Electric Lightning (157)
2 januari 2021 · 1 uur 23 min
Ian Black is a former RAF Fighter Pilot with a passion for photography and motorcycles. He began his flying career with the legendary McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom in RAF Germany at the height of the Cold War.
After three years flying as a navigator Ian underwent Pilot Training in 1984-1986 during which time he was awarded prizes for flying ability , aerobatics and unsurprisingly navigation skills.
On completion of his flying training Ian was selected to fly the English electric Lightning in the Air Defence Role. Twenty five years earlier, Ian’s father had been one of the RAF’s first Lightning Pilots and his son was set to become the last. Serving on 11(F) Squadron.
Now I really need your help to allow me the time to continue producing and preserving these Cold War stories.
A monthly donation to help keep us on the air is only about $3, £3 or €3 per month (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Ian Black to our Cold War conversation… Lees meerCheck our Ian's great photography books here https://www.firestreakbooks.com/
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes,plus a book giveaway which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode157/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follo… -
Sovietisation of Estonia (156)
30 december 2020 · 1 uur
Michael Zdanowski was born and raised in the UK, but his interest with the Cold War goes back generations. His grandfather having emigrated from Poland to the United Kingdom during the second world war and was a distinguished member of the RAF in the battle against Germany.
Michael’s interest in the Cold War prompted him to pursue a doctorate focused around the Sovietisation of Estonia post-WW2, which he researched over a number of years.
His findings indicated a wholesale imperialistic strategy that centered around language, culture and moving large numbers of Russians into Estonia.
However, his findings also demonstrate a great deal of Estonian resistance to these efforts, with the local population finding ways of celebrating their local culture and heritage through covert means.
It is a story of attempted social engineering that underestimated the desire of a people to be conquered.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Co-host Peter Ryan conducts our chat and I am delighted to welcome Michael Zdanowski to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode156/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.
Help Support the podcast by shopping at Amazon.
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Help support the podcast with a CWC mug or … Lees meer -
Deputy Head of UK Mission in East Berlin - Part 2 (155)
26 december 2020 · 46 min
This is Part 2 of our conversation with Colin Munro who was the British Deputy Head of Mission in East Berlin from 1987 to 1990.
In this episode we move to the monumental events of 1989 as the GDR was wrought by internal protest prior to the opening of the Wall in Berlin. It’s a fascinating account of Colin’s contacts who were giving him insights into the eventual fall of the GDR.
0:00 Introduction and Colin Munro's views on Brezhnev
1:50 Sponsor: Listener Donations Appeal
2:28 Political situation in East Germany in 1989
10:01 Soviet embassy's uncertainty about orders to Soviet forces in East Germany
19:12 Colin Munro's personal experience during the opening of the Berlin Wall
22:30 UK government's position on German unification
30:02 The economic collapse of East Germany and the decision for a currency union
32:37 The 2+4 negotiations for German unification
35:20 The end of the Cold War and Thatcher's political career
40:27 Closing remarks and acknowledgments
Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨
Do you know how much $3 USD is in Pounds? It’s 76 pence which equals about 20p or 75c per episode if you sign up as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast.
Higher amounts are welcome too. It’s very straightforward and you can stop whenever you want. Plus monthly supporters get the sought after CWC coaster too!
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Thank you so much to our generous supporters who help keep us on the air.
If that’s not your cup of tea then leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.
In today’s episode, Colin tells of translating for Margaret Thatcher during a phone call with Helmut Kohl, UK imports from the GDR and of a drunken Harry Tisch, the East German Trade Union leader.
We welcome Colin to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https… Lees meer -
Deputy Head of UK Mission in East Berlin - Part 1 (154)
19 december 2020 · 51 min
Colin Munro was the British Deputy Head of Mission in East Berlin from 1987 to 1990. Although the UK did not recognise East Berlin as part of the GDR in 1973 it established an Embassy “to” the GDR (not in the GDR) in East Berlin to provide a diplomatic presence.
As Deputy Head of Mission Colin was effectively the Deputy Ambassador and was responsible for improving trade, ensuring correct dealings on status of Berlin and try to promote peaceful change.
0:00 Introduction and Colin Munro's roles in East Berlin
1:03 UK's stance on East Berlin and the GDR
2:24 Sponsor: Financial Supporters
2:42 Divided city of Berlin and its status
7:04 Colin's account of a sit-in at the embassy in East Berlin
15:31 Story of the sit-in at the Danish embassy
17:05 Trade between the UK and East Germany
26:18 Personal encounters with East German politburo members
33:01 Opening of the Hungarian border and its perception
40:56 Discussion on the unification of Germany
44:45 Show notes and appreciation of the podcast's patrons
45:37 Invitation to join the Facebook discussion group and closing remarks
Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨
Do you know how much $3 USD is in Pounds? It’s 76 pence which equals about 20p or 75c per episode if you sign up as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast.
Higher amounts are welcome too. It’s very straightforward and you can stop whenever you want. Plus monthly supporters get the sought after CWC coaster too!
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If that’s not your cup of tea then leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.
Back to today’s episode, Colin tells of life in the Embassy with some fascinating insights into the unique difficulties of being a diplomat in a capital city that the UK did not recognise..
We welcome Colin to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a lin… Lees meer -
Just another day in Vietnam (153)
12 december 2020 · 1 uur 16 min
In this episode we talk with Col. Keith Nightingale who served in the US military from 1965 to 1993. He completed two tours of Vietnam; the first as a Senior Advisor to a Vietnamese Ranger unit and the second as a rifle company commander in the 101st Airborne.
Keith used the experience of his first tour to write ‘Just another day in Vietnam’ which gives a vivid first-hand account of a jungle operation with the South Vietnamese Rangers against the Viet Cong. Lees meerUK listeners can buy Keith's book here https://amzn.to/3lWljkb
US listeners can buy Keith's book here https://amzn.to/33VRcTD
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $4 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Co-host James conducts our chat and I am delighted to welcome Keith Nightingale to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode153/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
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Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction and Keith Nightingale's early experiences in Vietnam
1:02 Interview with Colonel Keith Nightingale and discussion about his book "Just another day in Vietnam"
7:13 Keith's assignment to the 52nd Rangers and comp… -
With Solidarity in Gdansk in 1980 (152)
5 december 2020 · 1 uur 28 min
During her first visit to Poland in 1980, Dr Jacqueline Hayden met the leading members of the free trade union ‘Solidarność’, including the future president Lech Wałęsa. As a freelance journalist at that time, she reported the events in Gdańsk in August 1980, when the shipyard workers went on strike to demand the creation of Free Trade Unions.
Our chat includes some vivid descriptions of what she saw and heard at the time, it explains the problems facing the nascent free trade union as well as details of the interviews she carried out with General Jaruselski and Cardinal Joseph Glemp among others.
Now, I really do need your help to support my work preserving Cold War history. I deliver 4 episodes a month and all I’m asking for is about $3, £3 or €3 per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Jacqueline Hayden to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode152/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Jacqueline Hayden's j…
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Sue Boyd - Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy in East Berlin (151)
28 november 2020 · 1 uur 8 min
Sue Boyd has been the head of Australian diplomatic missions in Fiji, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Bangladesh. She also had postings at the United Nations in New York and in the former East Germany.
Sue was posted to East Germany in 1976 and tells of her work, friendships, and life as a single woman in the diplomatic community of 1970s East Berlin. She reveals the fascinating contents of her Stasi file, detailing the intense surveillance she was under as well as confirmation of some of her suspicions, but also there are some surprising revelations too. Lees meerBuy Sue's book and support the podcast here https://amzn.to/2JfHiEU
Now it does take a lot of effort and expense to produce the podcast and I could really do with some help to support my work. So if you want to really help preserve Cold War history then for only about $3, £3 or €3 per month you can help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Sue Boyd to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode151/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.
Radio GDR
If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donat…
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Cold War Royal Navy submarine missions (150)
21 november 2020 · 1 uur 29 min
Today we speak with Ian Ballantyne, the author of “Hunter Killers”, also known as “Undersea Warriors” in the United States.
Hunter Killers’ tells the incredible, true inside story of the Royal Navy’s Cold War beneath the waves. Lees meerBuy the book and support the podcast here https://amzn.to/3jalire
We talk about the forgotten role Royal Navy submarines played in the Cuban Missile Crisis while also learning the truth behind what official statements called collisions with ‘icebergs’.
In addition, we cover the processes and procedures of the Polaris submarine nuclear missile launch as well as the “Letters of Last Resort”.
Now I really need your help to allow me the time to continue producing and preserving these Cold War stories.
A monthly donation to help keep us on the air is only about $3, £3 or €3 per month (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Iain Ballantyne to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode150
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciatedPhoto: FOSNI PHOTS/MOD
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Détente – the chance to end the Cold War (149)
14 november 2020 · 1 uur 3 min
Today, we speak with Richard Crowder, the author of “Détente – the chance to end the Cold War”. Lees meer
Help support the podcast by buying the book here
UK listeners https://amzn.to/34yNeB2
US listeners https://amzn.to/3kHU3pO
Between 1968 and 1975, there was a subtle thawing of relations between East and West, for which Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev coined the name Détente.
The leaders of the United States and the Soviet Union, Richard Nixon and Leonid Brezhnev, hoped to forge a new relationship between East and West.
We talk about some of the key moments such as where Henry Kissinger, Nixon’s Secretary of State agreed the end to the war in Vietnam, the 1973 Arab Israeli war where the world stood on the brink of armed conflict between the Soviet Union and the United States and the Helsinki Accords where the agreement to uphold human rights unleashed dissident movements against the Communist Parties of Eastern Europe.
Now I really need your help to allow me the time to continue producing and preserving these Cold War stories.
A monthly donation to help keep us on the air is only about $3, £3 or €3 per month (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Richard Crowder to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, plus a book giveaway which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode149/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversatio…
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Guy Burgess and the Cambridge Spy Ring (148)
7 november 2020 · 1 uur 4 min
Guy Burgess was the most important, complex, and fascinating of The Cambridge Spies, brilliant young men recruited in the 1930s to betray their country to the Soviet Union. An engaging and charming companion to many, an unappealing, utterly ruthless manipulator to others, Burgess rose through academia, the BBC, the Foreign Office, MI5 and MI6, gaining access to thousands of highly sensitive secret documents which he passed to his Russian handlers.
In his book “Stalin’s Englishman”, Andrew Lownie tells us how even Burgess's chaotic personal life of drunken philandering did nothing to stop his penetration and betrayal of the British Intelligence Service. Even when he was under suspicion, the fabled charm which had enabled many close personal relationships with influential Establishment figures (including Winston Churchill) prevented his exposure as a spy for many years. Lees meerUK fans can buy the book and support the podcast here https://amzn.to/3jyvcTH
US fans can buy the book and support the podcast here https://amzn.to/35LDAdR
Now I really need your help to allow me the time to continue producing and preserving these Cold War stories.
A monthly donation to help keep us on the air is only about $3, £3 or €3 per month (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Andrew Lownie to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes,plus a book giveaway which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. http://coldwarconversations.com/episode148/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do… -
A Childhood under the eye of the Secret Police (147)
31 oktober 2020 · 1 uur 34 min
At 2 a.m. on 10 March 1983, 12-year-old Carmen Bugan was home alone after her father had left for Bucharest. That afternoon, Carmen returned from school to find secret police in her living room. Her father’s protest against the regime had changed her life forever. This is her story.
This is one of the most powerful stories I have recorded so far. What you will hear in Carmen’s own words is an incredibly emotional story about childhood, family, spirit and humanity – do stay and listen to the end. It's safe to say it's a hell of a story and an emotional one too... Lees meerBuy the book and support the podcast
If you want to support our work preserving Cold War history then only about $3, £3 or €3 per month really helps keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Carmen Bugan to our Cold War conversation…Carmen has also written Poetry and the Language of Oppression - Essays on Politics and Poetics, available here
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode147/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode, visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
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Don - Cold War 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment at Fulda (146)
24 oktober 2020 · 53 min
In this second episode with Don Snedeker we talk to him about his time after his tour of Vietnam when he served in West Germany.
From 1974 to 1986 Don served in a number of roles but most noticeably he was assigned to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in Fulda, one of the locations where it was assumed that Warsaw Pact units would attack through.
He also trained as a Foreign Area Officer specialising in Western Europe and studied at the German Armed Forces Staff College in Hamburg.
From 1991 to 1992, Don headed the Inspectors and Escorts branch conducting conventional arms control inspections and confidence-building visits in the former Soviet Union and other Warsaw Pact countries.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Co-host James conducts our chat and I am delighted to welcome Don Snedeker to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode146/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
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0:00 Introduction
4:26 Explanation of the Fulda Gap and its strategic importance
11:28 Comparison of missions in Vietnam and… -
Navigator aboard the Cold War Vulcan nuclear bomber (145)
17 oktober 2020 · 55 min
Barry Mullen was a Navigator Radar on the legendary Royal Air Force nuclear bomber, the Vulcan.
The Navigator Radar (Nav Radar) had the responsibility for coordinating bombing from the aircraft.
This role was performed entirely via instrumentation and was achieved via the ground-facing radar and the Navigation Bombing System a direct successor of the WW2 H2S system used in aircraft such as the Lancaster.
This allowed accurate bombing from 57,000 feet down to an incredibly low height of 250 feet.
Barry served during the 1970s and candidly shares his experiences. He tells us about his time at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus during the Turkish invasion as well as the detail of his mission scenarios, both conventional and nuclear. He also shares information about his escape and evasion training as well as much more.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute about $3, £3 or €3 per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
Back to today’s episode, we had a little bit of a problem with the audio, but I do think what Barry shares is worth hearing and I hope that doesn’t affect your listening too much.
I am delighted to welcome Barry Mullen to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode145/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook… Lees meer -
1962 Berlin fiction - author interview (144)
14 oktober 2020 · 57 min
In this bonus episode, we talk again with Paul Grant, author of "Coercion" the fourth book about the Schultz family who live in Berlin. His books are set at the end of the Second World War and the start of the Cold War.
Coercion is set in 1962 against the backdrop of the Berlin Wall while it is still barbed wire and a fragile wall. Escape attempts are frequent and these attempts are the major theme of Paul’s latest book.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Co-host James conducts our chat and I am delighted to welcome Paul Grant to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode144/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.
Help Support the podcast by shopping at Amazon.
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Radio GDR
If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction of guest, Paul G…
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Don - Vietnam war Armoured Cavalry Platoon Leader (143)
10 oktober 2020 · 1 uur 1 min
This is the first of two episodes we have following Don Snedeker’s experiences through the Cold War. In this episode, we hear about his time in Vietnam and the book he has written entitled "The Blackhorse in Vietnam: The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in Vietnam and Cambodia, 1966–1972”.
Don was born in Brooklyn New York but followed his Father’s postings around the globe as an ‘Army brat’. Don was commissioned into the Armour branch of the US Army in February 1969 and by December he had been posted to Vietnam initially assigned to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (Blackhorse) but later joining the 1st Armoured Cavalry Regiment (Blackhawks) serving as an armoured cavalry platoon leader and as a Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol platoon leader. He was awarded a Bronze Star with ‘V’ for Valour, a Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge. Lees meerBuy Don's book and support the podcast here https://amzn.to/3nAj7Ra
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Co-host James conducts our chat and I am delighted to welcome Don Snedeker to our Cold War conversation…
There is further information and a book giveaway in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode143/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
Inst… -
In Cold War Skies – NATO and Soviet airpower 1949-89 (142)
3 oktober 2020 · 1 uur
Today’s episode is brought to you by Osprey publishing and we’re speaking with Michael Napier, the author of “In Cold War Skies – NATO and Soviet airpower 1949-89”.
Michael also flew the Tornado during the Cold War and served during the 1980s at 14 Sqn and 31 Sqn at RAF Brüggen in West Germany where he talks about nuclear QRA, low-level training in Germany, Canada and Exercise Red Flag in the US plus lots more.
His book is packed with first-hand accounts of operational flying during the Cold War as well as stunning photos. Lees meerYou can buy the book and support the podcast on this link https://amzn.to/3bELNDa
If you want to support our work in preserving Cold War history then only about $3, £3 or €3 per month helps keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
If a financial contribution is not your cup of tea, then you can still help us by leaving written reviews wherever you listen to us as well as sharing us on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.
I am delighted to welcome Michael Napier to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes,plus a book giveaway which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode142/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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I was a deep cover KGB spy Part 2 (141)
26 september 2020 · 57 min
This is part 2 of our chat with Jack Barsky who spent ten years as an undercover KGB agent in the United States.
He is the longest surviving known member of the KGB illegals programme that operated during the Cold War.
In this episode we talk about his first days in the US, his mission and how he managed build his cover enabling him to live and work as a US citizen. He honestly and candidly talks about the impact his secret life had on those closest to him and the moment of his arrest by the FBI.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
I am delighted to welcome Jack Barsky to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode141/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
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0:00 Introduction and Jack Barsky's life as a KGB agent
2:18 Support for the Cold War Conversations podcast
8:18 Living undercover in the United States
15:15 Communication methods with the KGB
18:13 Shift in mission and life as a computer programmer
24:27 Impact of family life on his mission
32:11 Discovery of Jack's identity and confrontation with the FBI
40… -
I was a deep cover KGB spy Part 1 (140)
19 september 2020 · 1 uur 6 min
If you’ve seen the TV drama series, “The Americans” you’ll be fascinated by this episode. Albrecht Dittrich was an East German graduate student and a true believer in the Communist cause when he was recruited by the KGB in 1970. He spent ten years as an undercover KGB agent in the United States.
He is the longest surviving known member of the KGB illegals programme that operated during the Cold War.
In this episode we talk about his first days his early life in East Germany as well as his recruitment and training in Berlin & Moscow.
It’s an amazing insight into the mind and personality of a secret agent and the immense pressures he was under in the 10 years he served his KGB masters.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
I am delighted to welcome Jack Barsky to our Cold War conversation… Lees meerUK Fans can buy Jack's book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/2FKAbmj
US Fans can buy Jack's book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/3hLQoVs
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode140/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook or click here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
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You… -
Portland Spy Ring Part 2 (139)
12 september 2020 · 1 uur 26 min
This is the 2nd episode with Trevor Barnes, the author of “Dead Doubles, a new book on the Portland Spy Ring, one of the most infamous espionage cases of the Cold War.
The story continues with the dramatic arrest of three of the KGB spies outside the Old Vic theatre in London and the discovery of the amazing espionage career of the Krogers, the innocent-looking couple in suburbia…
We also talk about the revelation that the Portland spy ring was larger than thought and that at least two members escaped capture. Lees meerUK Fans can buy the book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/2Gp50gD
US Fans can buy the book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/3jHRpiy
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
I am delighted to welcome Trevor Barnes to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes,plus a book giveaway which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode139/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook or click here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciatedSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction and arrest of Gordon Lonsdale
2:26 Interview begins with Trevor Barnes: Background on the arrest of Lonsdale, Ho… -
Portland Spy Ring Part 1 (138)
5 september 2020 · 51 min
In this episode we talk with Trevor Barnes, the author of “Dead Doubles, a new book on the Portland Spy Ring, one of the most infamous espionage cases of the Cold War.
In 1960 it was discovered that crucial secrets from the world-leading submarine research base at Portland in Dorset were being stolen by a British man and his mistress. The couple were tailed by MI5 'watchers' to a covert meeting with a Canadian businessman, Gordon Lonsdale. The unsuspecting Lonsdale in turn led MI5's spycatchers to an innocent-looking couple in suburban Ruislip called the Krogers… Lees meerUK Fans can buy the book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/2Gp50gD
US Fans can buy the book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/3jHRpiy
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
I am delighted to welcome Trevor Barnes to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes,plus a book giveaway which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode138/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction and Background of Trevor Barnes
1:03 Overview of the Portland Spy Ring and Trevor Barnes' book "Dead Do… -
The Last British Commandant in Cold War West Berlin Part 2 (137)
29 augustus 2020 · 58 min
This is the 2nd part of our conversation with Major General Sir Robert Corbett, KCVO, CB who was the last Commandant of the British Sector in Berlin.
We join as I ask what were the British Army’s plans in the event of a Warsaw Pact invasion of West Berlin.
We also talk about the momentous night of 9th November 1989 and a fascinating tale of a situation, which if handled differently could have sent the history of that night in a very different direction...
Sir Robert also recollects his experiences at the Checkpoint Charlie closure ceremony and at the Tag der Deutschen Einheit when on 3 October 1990 the two Germanies were officially reunified.
If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help us grow the number of listeners.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you helping preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
I am delighted to welcome back Major General Sir Robert Corbett to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode137/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 I…
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The Last British Commandant in Cold War West Berlin Part 1 (136)
22 augustus 2020 · 49 min
Major General Sir Robert Corbett, KCVO, CB was the last Commandant of the British Sector in Berlin.
We start his story with the description of his first experience of Berlin as a young Army officer commanding a military train across East Germany into West Berlin just weeks after the Berlin Wall had been built.
We also talk about his subsequent Army career including his interview with British Foreign Secretary Geoffrey Howe and his early days as the Commandant of the British Sector in Berlin.
If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help us grow the number of listeners.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you helping preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
I am delighted to welcome Major General Sir Robert Corbett to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode136/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations0:00 Introduction to Cold War Conversations and guest Major General Sir Robert Corbett
2:38 Corbett's firsthand account of the fall of the Berlin Wall and… -
Eva - A Cold War Czechoslovak Childhood (135)
15 augustus 2020 · 1 uur 19 min
Born in Communist Czechoslovakia, Eva Caletkova has written an honest and unflinching account of her childhood in Bratislava.
Eva’s parents were Catholics, and the communist regime began to persecute the Catholic Church right from the start in 1948. They had to hide their faith from anyone outside of their home.
Eva provides us with an insightful and emotional conversation that captures her experiences of life in Communist Czechoslovakia and the resulting trauma.
Do check out her book “Forgiveness & Violets” available on this link. https://amzn.to/2CwB0NX
If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help us grow the number of listeners. Lees meerIf you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3, £3, €3.50 per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/If you are affected by mental health issues we describe in this episode and want assistance you can visit The Samaritans in the UK https://www.samaritans.org/ or Befrienders Worldwide https://www.befrienders.org/ websites.
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode135/You can also visit Eva's web site here https://evacaletkova.com/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just use the link below.
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My father was Cold War Stasi spy Werner Stiller (134)
8 augustus 2020 · 1 uur 5 min
Werner Stiller’s spectacular defection to the West in 1979 inflicted one of the Cold War’s most serious blows to the Stasi.
At the time he was working as a case officer for the Main Directorate for Reconnaissance, the Stasi’s foreign intelligence division, where he was in charge of scientific espionage in the West.
We speak with Stiller’s son Andy, who although he was 11 months old at the time of his father’s defection met his father in later life.
Also included is Scott Calonico, who is producing a documentary film with Andy, covering his father’s abandonment of his family and his country, as well as the story of a young man and his journey to discover the man who was his father, the spy…
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If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you helping preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
We welcome filmmaker Scott Calonico and Andy to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode134/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.
Radio GDR
If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR. Lees meerSupport the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Retracing the Iron Curtain: A 3,000-Mile Journey Through the End and Afterlife of the Cold War (133)
1 augustus 2020 · 1 uur 13 min
Tim Phillips travelled the route of the former Iron Curtain from deep inside the arctic circle to the meeting point in Azerbaijan, Armenia and Turkey. On his journey, he explored both the surviving traces of the Iron Curtain and the Berlin Wall. Lees meer
The people he meets bear vivid witness to a time of change. There are some who now look on the Cold War with nostalgia and affection, but many more who still despise it unable to forgive the hard and sometimes lost decades that their families, friends, and nations had to endure.
Strikingly a large and increasing proportion of these populations no longer has any personal recollection of this defining 20th Century conflict. They were still too young or not even born when the curtain and the wall came down.
Buy Tim's book here and support CWC https://amzn.to/3Ud9Mir
If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help us grow the number of listeners.
If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute at least $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and you bask in the warm glow of knowing you helping preserve Cold War history.
Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Back to today’s episode, we welcome Tim to our Cold War conversation…
There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode133/
If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.
Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://w…