Spybrary Spy Podcast

Shane Whaley and author I.S. Berry (The Peacock and the Sparrow) welcome spy thriller author Dan Fesperman to talk about his latest novel, Pariah. What happens when a disgraced stand-up comedian becomes a CIA asset in a fictional Eastern European country? Listen/Watch On. Topics covered include: The real-world politics that inspired Pariah How cancel culture shapes protagonist Hal Knight Building a believable fictional Eastern/Central European setting (Bolrovia!) Why did Dan Fesperman choose to create a fictional country rather than base Pariah in a real country? Humour in serious spy fiction Do spy novels need to have a geopolitical canvas? Food in spy novels. Chimney cake anyone? Why Dan Fesperman’s audiobook producer stopped him from singing one of the songs referenced in Pariah. Dan Fesperman also reveals that his next novel will feature Winter Work’s Emil Grimm; he also shares his thoughts on what makes a spy novel and the guests give a shoutout to the unsung real-life spies. Dan Fesperman's Pariah is perfect for fans of le Carré, McCloskey, Paul Vidich and for readers craving spy fiction with depth, nuance and laughs. Grab your copy of Pariah now and join the conversation in t

In this episode of Spybrary, host Shane Whaley interviews author Alex Gerlis about his latest novel, The Second Traitor, book 2 in the spy series which is set against the backdrop of World War II and the early Cold War. They discuss the complexities of writing historical fiction, the importance of research, and the intricate character dynamics within the story. Gerlis shares insights into the historical events that inspired his work, including Operation Sea Lion, the Invasion Warning, Sub-Committee and the role of German intelligence (Abwehr). The conversation also touches on the balance between action and intrigue in spy fiction, as well as the challenges of writing sensitive topics and sex scenes. Highlights of our conversation with author Alex Gerlis. The Second Traitor is the second book in a four-part series. Readers can jump into the second book without reading the first. Historical accuracy is crucial in writing spy fiction. Operation Sea Lion was a significant but ultimately failed Nazi plan. Were the Abwehr sending second-rate spies to Britain? Character development is key to engaging storytelling. Gerlis prefers to allude to intimate scenes rather than describe them in detail. Researching real locations adds authenticity to the narrative. The Invasion Warning Subcommittee was a real organization during WWII. Gerlis's writing process is flexible and not overly planned.   If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Your support helps more spy fiction fans discover the show. Don’t forget to follow, share, and stay tuned for more tales from the world of espionage. Join us for this enthralling conversation and then connect with your fellow espionage aficionados in our online community to share your thoughts on Alex Gerlis's spy novels

Dive into Three Days of the Condor with Spybrary.  CIA conspiracies, moped escapes, and one of the best assassins in spy cinema. Redford stars in this slow-burn, cerebral classic that still resonates today. Join 4000 other spy fans, chatting spy movies, books and TV. https://www.spybrary.com/community Welcome to another edition of Section F on Spybrary, where spy film enthusiasts gather to dissect classic espionage cinema. In Episode 270, Shane is joined by Michael, Jonathan, and debut guest Pierce to delve deep into Three Days of the Condor (1975), directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Robert Redford. Episode Summary The team begins with a spoiler-free introduction to the film's plot and style, helping newcomers decide if it's their kind of spy movie. Then they dive into a rich, spoiler-heavy discussion covering historical context, casting choices, character analysis, plot structure, and the film's legacy in spy cinema. They also compare the movie to James Grady's novel Six Days of the Condor and debate the effectiveness of the movie's ambiguous ending. 

Prepare to experience Ian Fleming's James Bond novels as if reading them for the first time in the year of publication, as we embark on this 007 James Bond literary adventure together. In this time‑travel special, the Spybrary crew—Shane, David Craggs, Andy Onyx, and Ian Douglas—journey back to 1964 to dissect Ian Fleming’s latest novel, You Only Live Twice. They kick off by setting the scene: Bond mania is reaching fever pitch, with spy fiction booming, thanks to Ian Fleming, the Bond films are on a roll, and Fleming reported to be in very ill-heath. As the conversation delves into You Only Live Twice, be warned that the Spybrary panel expresses mixed feelings. They praise Fleming’s immersive evocation of Japan and its culture,  but some criticize the sparse action, flimsy plot advancement (especially the “Magic 44” intel) and Blofeld’s relatively abrupt demise.  From exotic Japan and ninja assassins to the novels shocking conclusion, we dissect culture, plot, and Blofeld’s bizarre garden. Was this bold detour worth it? Tune in and find out! Join the Spybrary Community for daily spy chat with fellow fans: https://www.spybrary.com/community Buy the book and support Spybrary - https://geni.us/gqpW

Gordon Corera makes his Spybrary debut in this riveting episode of the Spybrary podcast. Host Shane Whaley welcomes the former BBC security correspondent, espionage historian and host of The Rest is Classified podcast, Gordon Corera to discuss his latest book, The Spy in the Archive. The Cold War might be over, but its shadows stretch far into the present. What if one of the Soviet Union’s most overlooked insiders — a quiet KGB archivist — decided to turn against the very institution he once served? How did he smuggle a mountain of secrets out from under Moscow’s nose? And why did the CIA turn him away, only for MI6 to uncover what may be the most valuable intelligence defection of the era? This is the extraordinary true story of Vasili Mitrokhin — a man whose private rebellion against the KGB became a mission to expose its darkest truths. With deep ideological conviction, he spent years quietly copying thousands of classified files, building a secret archive buried beneath his dacha floorboards. His eventual escape, orchestrated by MI6, and the revelations that followed would reshape our understanding of Soviet espionage forever. The conversation dives deep into the life and legacy of Vasili Mitrokhin, a former KGB archivist turned dissident who smuggled out a trove of intelligence that would become one of the most important Cold War revelations. Gordon shares the challenges of researching this secretive figure, the personal and ideological motivations behind Mitrokhin’s actions, the drama of his family’s exfiltration by MI6, and how his warnings about the persistence of the KGB mindset still echo today. This episode offers a unique blend of spy history, investigative journalism, and human drama. Gordon Corera's book: The Spy in the Archive Gordon Corera Official Website Join the Spybrary Community

In this special episode of Spybrary, Shane is joined by fellow spy fan Joe Modzelewski for an in-depth International Spy Museum review. Recorded after their recent visit to the museum in Washington D.C., this episode is packed with honest reflections, surprising discoveries, and plenty of spy geekery. From Virginia Hall’s heroic story to rare artifacts like the Enigma machine and a section of the Berlin Tunnel, Shane and Joe cover it all—including the museum’s interactive spy games, an exhibit on intelligence analysis, and the must-see “Bond in Motion” car display. Whether you're a longtime espionage fiction enthusiast or just planning your first visit, this is your ultimate guide to navigating the International Spy Museum and getting the most out of it. 🕵️‍♂️ Topics include: What makes the Spy Museum a must-visit Interactive missions and spy quizzes Rare Cold War artifacts and East German intel gear The museum's educational value for casual fans and hardcore readers alike Bond in Motion: Why it’s not just for car buffs What spy books is Joe reading and who are some of his favourites. 🎟️ Plan your visit: https://www.spymuseum.org

On this episode of Spybrary, I welcome back one of today's finest spy fiction authors, Paul Vidich. We're diving into his gripping new novel, The Poet's Game, a contemporary espionage thriller rooted in the tense geopolitics of modern-day Russia and the United States. Paul joins me to unpack the creative process, real-life inspirations, and the deeply personal conflicts faced by his latest protagonist, Alex Matthews. We explore how Paul's personal family connections to the intelligence world have shaped his storytelling, and what drives him to keep revisiting the morally complex world of spies. From constructing rich character backstories to virtually navigating the streets of Moscow via Google Street View, Paul reveals the meticulous research and layered writing that make his novels so immersive. Tune in to hear about literary Easter eggs, historical intrigue, and the emotional depths that define The Poet's Game. [2:22] - Paul shares the real-life inspiration behind his enduring fascination with spy fiction. [4:50] - The 2017 White House meeting that sparked the idea for The Poet's Game. [7:42] - Decoding the significance of the title and the poetic codenames in the novel. [11:21] - How personal loss and professional guilt shape protagonist Alex Matthews. [18:47] - The secrets to vividly portraying cities like Moscow without ever visiting. [24:42] - The role of real historical figures and why Paul doesn't shy away from controversy. [32:25] - The E. Howard Hunt Easter egg and why The Judas Hour made it into the story. [42:54] - What Paul hopes readers will take away from The Poet's Game. Links & Resources: Buy The Poet's Game by Paul Vidich: [Available at all major bookstores and online retailers] Paul Vidich Official Website Join the Spybrary Community: https://spybrary.com/community The Spy Reader's Guide to the spy books of Paul Vidich Previous Paul Vidich interviews and conversations on Spybrary.  

Fans of George Smiley, John le Carré’s legendary spymaster, have reason to celebrate. In a rare double coup for the espionage world, Nick Harkaway—le Carré’s son—has announced The Taper Man, a new Smiley novel arriving in 2026, while The Spy Who Came in From the Cold will receive its first-ever stage adaptation in the West End this autumn. The announcement marks a major return of the “Circus,” le Carré’s iconic fictionalised British intelligence service, and the literary rebirth of one of spy fiction’s most enduring characters. Join Spybrary - the ultimate community for spy fiction fans. The Taper Man: Smiley Heads Stateside Set in 1965, The Taper Man picks up 18 months after the events of Harkaway’s bestselling Karla’s Choice and places George Smiley in unfamiliar terrain—America. The novel explores Smiley’s pursuit of a communist network on the US West Coast, threading together geopolitical paranoia with moral ambiguity in classic le Carré fashion. The story unfolds amid the tumultuous backdrop of the Civil Rights movement and the Vietnam War, with Smiley navigating tensions with the CIA ("the Cousins") while unravelling Soviet infiltrations that stretch back to the 1950s. “It’s time to meet our American Cousins,” Harkaway says. “We’re following the breadcrumbs of a messy debacle in Helsinki all the way to California, uncovering the truth of Karla’s 1950s network and pursuing Roy Bland into the USSR.” Publishing director Harriet Bourton of Viking describes The Taper Man as “an extraordinary new addition to the iconic literary world of John le Carré,” praising Harkaway’s ability to honour the legacy while making it unmistakably his own. Smiley on Stage: The Spy Who Came in From the Cold at Soho Place Alongside the novel news, spy fans will see Smiley on stage for the first time this November, when The Spy Who Came in From the Cold—le Carré’s 1963 classic—premieres at @sohoplace in London. Directed by Jeremy Herrin and adapted by acclaimed playwright David Eldridge, the production follows a successful run at Chichester Festival Theatre. Rory Keenan stars as Alec Leamas, the embittered British agent at the heart of the novel, with Agnes O’Casey playing Liz Gold. George Smiley will be portrayed by John Ramm. Clare Cornwell, director of the le Carré estate, says: “We are delighted to be celebrating the return of the Circus and George Smiley through these two new projects.” The John le Carré Legacy Continued Nick Harkaway, the fourth son of David Cornwell (John le Carré), previously completed the posthumous publication of Silverview and edited A Private Spy, a collection of his father’s letters. In Karla’s Choice, he took the bold step of writing new fiction within the le Carré universe—an effort praised by critics and readers alike. Watch our interview all about Karla's Choice with Nick Harkaway. With The Taper Man, Harkaway deepens his claim to the Smiley legacy while expanding the geopolitical canvas of the saga. For longtime fans of le Carré, and the next generation discovering his work through adaptations and new fiction, 2025 may just be the most thrilling year since Smiley first came in from the cold.

In this fascinating episode of Spybrary, host Shane Whaley takes us to the espionage heart of London with expert London Spy Tours guide David Harry, also known as The London Spy. From real-life Cold War betrayals to Bond-worthy locations and hidden relics, David shares captivating insights from his acclaimed Westminster and St. James's London spy tours. This episode is a treasure trove for spy fiction lovers and espionage history buffs alike. 🔑 Key Takeaways: 🕵️‍♂️ The Origins of the London Spy Tours: David's London spy tours began accidentally—inspired by a 1700s book, The London Spy, and his own deep interest in espionage, fiction, and tradecraft.   He incorporates rare artifacts like SOE silk escape maps and spy gadgets, blending storytelling, history, and magic (he’s a magician too!). 🇬🇧 Why London Is Spy Central: London has long been a magnet for spies due to its imperial legacy, linguistic reach, and real-life spy operations. The city has seen major espionage incidents from the Cambridge Five to the Berlin Tunnel betrayal to the Markov umbrella assassination, and the Novichok poisonings. 🧭 Tour Highlights: Visit Carlton House Terrace, featuring WWII German embassy history, the tomb of an anti-Nazi dog (!), and the headquarters of the Information Research Department (IRD)—a Cold War propaganda arm. Learn how George Orwell supplied the IRD with a list of pro-Stalinist sympathizers. Explore shops like Lock & Co Hatters, Turnbull & Asser, and Peter Harrington Rare Books, where Fleming-signed first editions and Churchill’s ledgers await. 🔍 Spy Artifacts and Anecdotes: View original newspaper clippings that simultaneously reported the Berlin Tunnel discovery and serialized From Russia with Love.   Hear about CIA gadgets like the infamous "spy scrotum" radio transmitter for downed aircrew.   Handle spy coins with hidden compartments—linked to real-life agent escapades. 🎥 Fiction Meets Reality: Discover film and TV locations from James Bond, Slow Horses, The Sandbaggers, and Kingsman. Learn how David tailors his London Spy tours to each group—mixing history, Cold War intrigue, and spy fiction depending on interest. 📍 Useful for Listeners Who: Love spy fiction and real-world intelligence history. Are planning a trip to London and want an immersive espionage experience. Enjoy behind-the-scenes London spy stories, tradecraft, and collectibles. Appreciate well-researched, artifact-rich storytelling from a charismatic guide. 🧳 Book Your Tour: 🔗 www.thelondonspy.com

Michael Idov, author of The Collaborators, joins Spybrary to discuss the spy novel everyone in our community is raving about. In this in-depth conversation, Michael shares how his Soviet upbringing, real-world intelligence events like the Ryanair Belarus 'hijacking' incident and Moscow taxi hacker chaos, and his love for British espionage fiction shaped his gripping debut spy novel. We also dive into his work on Deutschland 83, Deutschland 89, his admiration for OSINT warriors like Bellingcat, and his love letter to cities like Riga, Berlin, and London. 🎧 Topics include: Real-world events that feature in The Collaborators Why Michael sees spy fiction as a milieu, not a genre The delicate balance between spy realism and cinematic action OSINT’s influence on modern espionage stories British vs. American spy fiction traditions 🔗 Show Notes + Links: https://spybrary.com/261 📚 Buy The Collaborators: https://geni.us/V8T5a Join the Spybrary Spy Fiction Fans Community: https://www.spybrary.com/community 👍 Like, subscribe, and comment — what’s your favourite modern spy novel?

Ever wonder what spy books former CIA spy Valerie Plame can't put down? Today on Spybrary, host Shane Whaley is joined by none other than Valerie Plame—former CIA covert operative, bestselling author, and an iconic voice in the world of intelligence and espionage. For over a decade, Valerie Plame served on the front lines of national security, operating undercover in some of the world’s most complex and volatile environments. Her CIA career—and the controversial public outing that ended it—has been the subject of headlines, books, and a major Hollywood film 'Fair Game' Now, Valerie Plame joins us for a very different kind of mission—her Spybrary Dead Drop 5. She’ll reveal the five spy books she’d choose to stash in a hidden drop in East Berlin, the titles she’d rely on during a covert operation behind the Iron Curtain. From childhood favorites to deeply researched histories, Valerie’s picks promise intrigue, insight, and a few surprises. Strap in—this is going to be a Spybrary episode to remember. The Dead Drop 5 is back! In this much-requested Spybrary feature, our guest is embedded behind the Iron Curtain and can request five spy books, a gadget, luxury items and more from their handler. Before we get to Valerie Plame's five favourite books do check out her event Spies at Seas. Valerie and her team have kindly offered a discount for Spybrarians.

🔥 In This Episode: He's back. Former MI6 officer turned critically acclaimed novelist, Charles Beaumont returns to the Spybrary podcast on the launch day of his second novel, A Spy at War, the highly anticipated sequel to his bestselling debut, A Spy Alone. Recorded on publication day, this conversation delves deep—not only into the plot and characters of the new book, but also into the role of spy fiction in helping us make sense of today’s volatile geopolitical landscape. Join us for a gripping conversation about war, fiction, statecraft, and the moral complexities of modern espionage. A QUICK HEADS UP. A Spybrary first, due to Charles Beaumont's work for the Intelligence Services, our technical division has digitally altered his voice to protect his identity. Join the Spybrary Community - https://www.spybrary.com  

In this Brush Pass episode of Brush Pass, Le Carre Cast and Barbican Station podcast host Jeff Quest, gives us the lowdown on two spy-related theatrical productions: 'Operation Mincemeat' and 'Dakar 2000'. Operation Mincemeat on Broadway John Golden Theatre   252 W. 45th St., New York, NY The stunning true story of a scheme every bit as dicey, daring, and ridiculous as opening a new musical on Broadway! The best-reviewed show in West End history is now on Broadway! 74 ★★★★★ Reviews and Counting! (which, according to our calculations, adds up to 370 stars) SYNOPSIS: It’s 1943, and the Allied Forces are on the ropes. Luckily, they’ve got a trick up their sleeve. Well, not up their sleeve, per se, but rather inside the pocket of a stolen corpse. Equal parts farce, thriller, and Ian Fleming-style spy caper (with an assist from Mr. Fleming himself), Operation Mincemeat tells the wildly improbable and hilarious true story of the covert operation that turned the tide of WWII. SCHEDULE: March 25–30: Tuesday @7pm, Wednesday @2pm and 7:30pm, Thursday @7pm, Friday @7:30pm, Saturday @2pm and 7:30pm, Sunday @2pm Running Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes with one intermission Dakar 2000 In Senegal on the eve of Y2K, an idealistic Peace Corps volunteer survives a mysterious car accident. An imposing State Department operative immediately takes command of the situation and his safety. Though they couldn’t be more different, they form an unlikely relationship. But when it becomes clear that they both have secrets, the volunteer is roped into a darker side of public service – one he can’t come back from. Unpredictable at every turn, this world-premiere thriller was commissioned by Manhattan Theatre Club. Written by Rajiv Joseph (Pulitzer Prize finalist for Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo; King James at MTC) and directed by May Adrales (Vietgone and Poor Yella Rednecks at MTC).   Have you watched Operation Mincemeat and/or Dakar 2000? What did you think? Let us know in the Spybrary community. 🔗 Links & Resources: Operation Mincemeat Broadway Info and Tickets Dakar 2000 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Here’s how you can support Spybrary: ✅ Subscribe & Review – Your

Welcome to the third episode of Section F - our Spy Movie Podcast track on Spybrary. Our Section F handpicked hosts and guests discuss their favourite spy movies both the classics and the hidden gems of spy films. Today Spybrary's Section F delve into the 1963 movie adaptation of Ian Fleming's From Russia With Love starring Sean Connery and directed by Terence Young. Host Shane Whaley is joined by Section F's Dr Eric Newsom and Michael Huie, along with special guest film historian Dr. Llewella Chapman, author of the British Film Institute’s book on From Russia With Love. https://geni.us/4Ppp  The team dives deep into the 1963 Bond classic, exploring everything from Red Grant’s chilling villainy to Connery’s evolving performance as 007, and why this film is often hailed as not just the best 007 movie but maybe the best spy movie ever made. The panel explores the film's darker, more espionage-driven tone compared to other James Bond entries and its legacy in the genre. Llewella brings rich insights from her research, offering fascinating production details and commentary on its visual and psychological depth. What did you think of From Russia With Love? Agree with our panel or have your own take? Drop a comment on YouTube or your favorite podcast app. Or better still, why not join 4,000+ spy fans in our community: https://www.spybrary.com/community    

Is the German Spy Museum in Berlin worth your time? In this episode of Brush Pass on Spybrary, we take you inside this fascinating espionage attraction to uncover its best exhibits, hidden gems, and whether it’s a must-visit for spy fans. Spybrary’s on-the-ground team in Berlin – Station C's Matt Batten, David Morgan, and Father Richard Green – share their German Spy Museum Berlin review. Both Matt and David are return visitors to the German Spy Museum - how was their experience on a second visit? Tune in to find out. Have you visited the German Spy Museum? What did you think? let us know in the comments or better still come and join us in our free Spybrary Community with 4,000 other espionage fans.

Ever wonder what spy novels a real-life Special Forces and CIA operative can't put down? Former Special Forces & CIA Officer James Stejskal reveals his top five spy thrillers on Spybrary's Dead Drop 5. The Dead Drop 5 is back! In this much-requested Spybrary feature, our guest is embedded behind the Iron Curtain and can request five spy books, a gadget, luxury items and more from their handler. Today’s guest is James Stejskal, a former U.S. Army Special Forces and CIA operative, turned military historian and author. James spent 35 years operating in high-stakes locations across Africa, Europe, the Balkans, and the Near and Far East. Now an accomplished writer, he’s best known for his Cold War thriller series, The Snake Eater Chronicles, and the highly regarded non-fiction book Special Forces Berlin: Clandestine Cold War Operations of the U.S. Army's Elite (1956–1990). In this episode, James shares his five essential spy reads—spy thrillers that influenced him and shaped his view on espionage fiction. James Spy Book Picks can be found at www.spybrary.com/256

🔎 "Most mole hunts end in an unsatisfying fashion…" – David McCloskey Former CIA analyst-turned-bestselling spy novelist and The Rest is Classified Podcast Host David McCloskey returns to Spybrary for an illuminating conversation with journalist and espionage fan The Sunday Times' Chief Political Commentator Tim Shipman.  From Langley’s shadowy corridors to the gator-infested wilds of Florida, McCloskey’s latest thriller, The Seventh Floor, delivers a modern-day mole hunt infused with betrayal, thrills and intrigue.  They discuss McCloskey's journey from a promising debut author to an international expert on espionage, his new podcast 'The Rest Is Classified', and his reflections on the Syrian conflict. The conversation delves into the psychological dynamics of regime change, the challenges of writing fiction versus non-fiction, and the development of McCloskey's protagonist, Artemis Proctor, in his latest book 'The Seventh Floor'.  

Welcome to our book club episode on On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, Ian Fleming's eleventh James Bond novel and one of the most pivotal in the series. Spybrary host Shane Whaley introduces this James Bond Book club episode from the steps of the College of Arms in London, a location that plays a significant role in the story as Bond takes on a unique undercover mission. On Her Majesty's Secret Service is the book where Bond faces his arch-nemesis Blofeld, but it’s also where we see a rare, deeply emotional side to 007 as he falls in love with the enigmatic Tracy di Vicenzo. Packed with high-stakes action, breathtaking Alpine settings, and a story that forever changes the Bond mythos, it’s a classic that deserves a closer look. Let’s dive in Is On Her Majesty's Secret Service, Ian Fleming's best James Bond novel yet? Join our host, Shane Whaley, as we dive deep into the world of espionage literature featuring the latest updates on Ian Fleming's newest masterpiece, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Alongside guests David Craggs, Andy Onyx, and Hildebrand Group's Ian Douglas, we explore the narrative and character developments that showcase Fleming’s storytelling prowess. On Her Majesty's Secret Service Book Club Takeaways Ian Fleming’s Masterpiece?: Discover how Fleming has returned to form with On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The book is praised for its emotional depth and rich character development, marking it as one of his best James Bond books. Bond's Personal Evolution: Hear our guests discuss the transformation of James Bond's character in this latest installment. Fleming adds layers to Bond, exploring his humanity and personal relationships, bringing a fresh perspective to the renowned spy. Thrilling Scenes and Cinematic Flair: From high-stakes chases and avalanche escapes to the climactic showdown at Piz Gloria, the book's vivid and cinematic qualities promise an exhilarating read that could seamlessly transition onto the big screen. M at Home and at Christmas: Hear why none of the James Bond Book Club Members fancy a Yuletide gathering at M's home. And Much More! Don't miss out on this compelling discussion and join the conversation with the Spybrary community online. Dive into the latest episode and get a front-row seat at the James Bond Book Club. In this episode, host Shane Whaley and guests David Craggs, author Andy Onyx, and Hildebrand's Ian Douglas dive deep into Ian Fleming's eleventh James Bond book On Her Majesty Secret Service (1963) as if they are in the year of publication.

Shane Whaley engages in a riveting discussion with historian and author Dr. Claire Hubbard-Hall. Known for her expertise in the history of women in intelligence, Claire brings to light the overlooked yet monumental roles women have played in British Intelligence. Her book titled Her Secret Service - The Forgotten Women of British Intelligence aims to challenge the male-dominated narrative of intelligence history. Recognition and Roles: Changing Perceptions The episode also discusses the broader evolution of women's roles in British intelligence, shedding light on figures like Jane Sismore, MI5’s first officer, and Mary Shearer, MI5's first female agent handler. Claire elaborates on how societal changes, particularly during wartime when men were at the front, necessitated the inclusion of women in more substantial roles. However, progress was slow, often hinging on the approval and support of male counterparts.   Winifred Spink, a strikingly attractive woman born into a Plymouth Brethren family, was a rebel and suffragette who defied conventions of her time. Fluent in French and German, she also mastered car mechanics and excelled as a secretary. Shortly before the 1916 revolution, she broke new ground as the first female intelligence officer with the British mission to Petrograd, narrowly escaping execution during her time there. Bold and liberated, she chronicled her numerous romantic liaisons in her diary, referring to them as “another scalp.” Equally remarkable was Olga Gray, who joined MI5 in 1931 and successfully infiltrated the British Communist Party as secretary to its leader, Harry Pollitt, ultimately exposing a Soviet spy ring. Joan Bright, another inspiration for the character of Miss Moneypenny, was lauded as the "organising genius of the War Office secretariat" during the Second World War. She became the gatekeeper to the War Office’s secrets and a valuable source for historians throughout her life. Despite her significant contributions, Gray received little support and was eventually abandoned by MI5, showcasing the institutional barriers women faced. Shining a Light on the Forgotten Women of British Intellgence As Dr Claire Hubbard-Hall continues to uncover these hidden stories, her work is instrumental in revising our understanding of espionage history. By highlighting the indispensable roles women have played, she not only corrects historical oversights but also paves the way for future generations to appreciate and recognize the silent heroines of intelligence. For those interested in delving deeper into these narratives, Claire’s book "Her Secret Service" is available in the UK and will be released in the US as "Secret Servants of the Crown: Women, British Intelligence" in February. Join us in celebrating the remarkable forgotten women of British Intelligence.  

Wilfred "Biffy" Dunderdale: A Life of Espionage On today's Spybrary, host Shane Whaley sat down with Lt. Col. Tim Spicer OBE, author of A Suspicion of Spies: Risk, Secrets and Shadows – The Biography of Wilfred ‘Biffy’ Dunderdale. The book offers a glimpse into the life of this iconic British spy. Drawing upon years of research, Spicer's biography explores the remarkable life of a man who navigated the treacherous world of espionage, leaving an indelible mark on history. Early Life and Introduction to Espionage: Born in Odessa in 1899, Wilfred "Biffy" Dunderdale's life was marked by adventure from a young age. Spicer highlights Dunderdale's multilingual upbringing, fluent in English, Russian, French, Polish, and German, as a key asset in his future espionage career. By 16, Dunderdale was already immersed in naval studies in St. Petersburg, hinting at a future intertwined with maritime affairs. At the tender age of 17, Dunderdale found himself at the helm of an Imperial Russian submarine. In a daring maneuver, he engaged and sank five German ships, an act of valor that earned him the prestigious Order of St. Stanislav and the Order of St. Anne, the highest military honors bestowed by Tsar Nicholas II. This early display of courage and strategic thinking foreshadowed Dunderdale's future successes in the world of espionage. A Career Forged in Conflict: Dunderdale's exceptional language skills paved the way for his recruitment by British Naval Intelligence in 1918. During this time, he conducted numerous intelligence operations in Crimea, distinguishing himself with two Mentions-in-Despatches and a military MBE for his role in suppressing a Bolshevik mutiny aboard the submarine 'Outka'. The Rise of a Spymaster: In 1921, Dunderdale's talents caught the Secret Intelligence Service's (SIS) attention, leading to his posting in Constantinople. His responsibilities expanded to encompass intelligence work in Turkey, the Caucasus, and Southern Russia, further solidifying his reputation within the intelligence community. Dunderdale's meteoric rise within the SIS culminated in his appointment as Head of Station in Paris in 1926, at the remarkably young age of 26. This achievement marked him as the youngest SIS Head of Station ever, a testament to his exceptional abilities and the trust placed in him. In Paris, he collaborated closely with the French Deuxième Bureau, focusing on anti-Bolshevik and, increasingly, anti-Nazi operations.   Crucial Contributions to World War II: One of Dunderdale's most significant contributions to the Allied war effort was his involvement with the Enigma machine. Working in conjunction with Polish and French intelligence, he played a key role in the development and understanding of this crucial German encryption device. Notably, Dunderdale facilitated the smuggling of the first Enigma machine to Bletchley Park just before the outbreak of World War II. This daring act provided Allied codebreakers with a critical advantage, enabling them to decipher German communications and significantly contributing to the Allied victory. Throughout World War II, Dunderdale maintained a vast and effective intelligence network in France, gathering invaluable information on German U-boat operations, Normandy's coastal defenses, and the development of V1 and V2 rockets. These intelligence coups proved instrumental in both the D-Day landings and the broader Allied war effort. A Legacy of Espionage and Intrigue: Dunderdale's postwar activities remained shrouded in secrecy. However, his influence continued to be felt in the shadowy world of espionage. Spicer's biography sheds light on Dunderdale's involvement in clandestine operations behind the Iron Curtain, his role in the Suez Crisis, and his connection to the "Buster Crabbe" affair. The Bond Connection: Dunderdale's life story reads like something straight out of a spy novel or 'like Commando comics' says Spybrary Host Shane Whaley. Biffy's long friendship with Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, has fueled speculation about Dunderdale's influence on the iconic character. Many believe that Dunderdale, with his taste for adventure, his network of informants, and his deep understanding of the world of espionage, served as a key inspiration for the suave and resourceful James Bond. Unveiling a Shadowy Figure: Lt. Col. Tim Spicer's A Suspicion of Spies offers a captivating look into the life of one of Britain's most enigmatic and influential spies. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Spicer brings Wilfred "Biffy" Dunderdale out of the shadows, revealing a man who dedicated his life to serving his country in the most clandestine of ways. The biography stands as a testament to Dunderdale's unwavering commitment to his duty, his extraordinary courage, and his lasting impact on the world of espionage. 'An exhaustively researched, detailed and gripping account of the life and dramatic times of one of Britain's foremost secret agents - the inimitable Wilfred 'Biffy' Dunderdale. A fabulous hero to quicken any schoolboy adventurer's blood, Dunderdale remains an iconic figure in the world of British and allied secret services. Read this book to understand why.' Damian Lewis About the Author Lieutenant Colonel Tim Spicer OBE has led a life filled with action and adventure. During his twenty years in the British Army he saw active service in Northern Ireland, the Falklands campaign, the Gulf War and the Balkans, as well as serving in the Far East, Cyprus and Germany. Key appointments have included Chief of Staff of an Armoured Brigade, Staff Officer at the Directorate of Special Forces and Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion Scots Guards, among many others. Over the course of his illustrious military career, Spicer has developed extensive knowledge of intelligence, counter-terrorism, complex relations and protective security. In 2001 he founded the private security company Aegis, which has counted the UK, US and Italian governments among its clients. He is the author of An Unorthodox Soldier: Peace and War and the Sandline Affair (2000), a fast-moving account of his military life, including the events surrounding his time in Papua New Guinea when he was captured and held at gunpoint, as well as the notorious 'Sandline Affair' of 1996, and A Dangerous Enterprise (2021) that charts the history of the little-known, yet remarkable 15th Motor Gunboat Flotilla, commanded directly by the Secret Intelligence Service. Join Us Next Time: Stay tuned for more thrilling spy content on the Spybrary Spy Podcast!