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    History

    Cold War Conversations

    Experience the Cold War like never before through award-winning, real-life stories told by those who lived it.
    Each week, we bring you firsthand accounts from soldiers, spies, civilians, and more, capturing the full spectrum of Cold War experiences.
    Host Ian Sanders takes you beyond the history books, delivering raw, personal stories where every breath, pause, and emotion adds depth to understanding this pivotal era.
    This is Cold War history, told from the inside.
    We cover subjects such as spies, spying, the Iron Curtain, nuclear weapons, warfare, tanks, jet aircraft, fighters, bombers, transport aircraft, aviation, culture, and politics.
    We also cover personalities such as Fidel Castro, JFK, Ronald Reagan, Nikita Khrushchev, Leonid Brezhnev, Yuri Andropov, Mikhail Gorbachev, Konstantin Chernenko, Margaret Thatcher, John F. Kennedy, Josef Stalin, Richard Nixon, Lech Walesa, General Jaruzelski, Nicolae Ceaușescu.
    Other subjects include Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Romania, Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin, West Berlin, East Berlin, Cuban missile Crisis, Berlin Airlift, Bay of Pigs, SALT, Perestroika, Space Race, superpower, USSR, Soviet Union, DDR, GDR, East Germany, SDI, Vietnam War, Korean War, Solidarność, Fall of the Wall, Berliner Mauer, Trabant, Communist, Capitalist, Able Archer, KGB, Stasi, STB, SB, Securitate, CIA, NSA, MI5, MI6, Berlin Wall, escape, defection, Cuba, Albania, football, sport, Bulgaria, Soviet Union, Poland, China, Taiwan, Austria, West Germany, Solidarity, espionage, HUMINT, SIGINT, OSINT, IMINT, GEOINT, RAF, USAF, British Army, US Army, Red Army, Soviet Army, Afghanistan, NVA, East German Army, KAL007, T-72, T-64, Chieftain, M60
    The podcast is for military veterans, school teachers, university lecturers, students and those interested in Cold War history, museums, bunkers, weapons, AFVs, wargaming, planes, A Level, GCSE students

    Advertise

    Copyright: © 2024 Cold War Conversations

    • Apple Podcasts
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    Latest Episodes:
    From Vulcan to Gannet: A Cold War career in the Royal Air Force Nov 02, 2024

    This episode is brought to you by the Avro Heritage Museum at Woodford near Manchester where I am a volunteer. Trevor Jackson is also one of the volunteers, but unlike me he’s a former Vulcan pilot who shares with me his extraordinary career.


    From his early days with the Royal Air Force Cadet Force to flying iconic aircraft like the BAC Jet Provost, Folland Gnat , Vulcan, Gannett, and Canberra, Trevor provides fascinating insights into the life of a military aviator.


    Discover the challenges and thrills of flying during the Cold War, the intricacies of Vulcan QRA scrambles, and landing on the pitching, heaving deck of an aircraft carrier. This episode is a must-listen for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike!


    I highly recommend the Avro Heritage Museum. They’re the home of the only white Vulcan in the World as well as many other historical aircraft and cockpits. Visit the web site at https://www.avroheritagemuseum.co.uk/ for more details.


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode372


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    All our air power episodes in one convenient playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4QVY3bWNLFSd62iBkPzRh9?si=31342ec59eb54762



    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Doorsteps of Hell - a US Marine platoon commander in the Vietnam War (371) Oct 25, 2024

    As Tom Williams fought the enemy, every day, without fail, he would record the day’s events in his diary. It is these diaries (which Tom has to this day), that enable him to tell the story of Vietnam in the late sixties/early seventies, like it really was.


    I talk with Tom about his book “Doorsteps of Hell” where he offers an honest, unembellished account of a new officer in the US Marines - fighting and surviving in the mud-sucking rice paddies and leech-infested jungles of Vietnam.


    In my conversation Tom brings to life the camaraderie, leadership, and the very essence of military expertise. Tom’s book is available at heartofamarineseries.com .


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode371


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    All our combat episodes in one convenient playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6j6YJmRWzt42kYiPGkcFfa?si=95e5366e4ad945a3


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    • 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
    • Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    How the Cold War almost destroyed European Football (370) Oct 18, 2024

    In the late 1960s European club football competitions were thriving However unexpected events in 1968 threatened its survival.


    I delve into the fascinating world of European football during the Cold War era with Craig McCracken, a self-described peddler and purveyor of quasi obscure retro football nostalgia via the 'Beyond The Last Man' blog.


    We explore the political tensions that influenced European football in the 1960s, and the dramatic events of 1968 when the Prague Spring was crushed by Soviet and Warsaw Pact forces.


    Discover how these geopolitical events impacted clubs like Celtic, the Milan clubs, and Real Madrid, and the unprecedented decisions UEFA had to make. This episode is a gripping tale of football, politics, and the power struggles that shaped the beautiful game.


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode370


    Craig's excellent blog https://beyondthelastman.com/


    All our Cold War Sport episodes in one convenient playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2OoAtLN7sHYdCgCNhms1Kl?si=da05732a422a41f8


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Nuclear Missions - a Canadian CF104 Starfighter Pilot's Story (369) Oct 11, 2024

    Flying at high speed and low level, RCAF pilot Allen French was at the sharp end of potential nuclear bombing missions during the Cold War.


    Born at the dawn of the baby boomer era, Allen delves into his early inspirations, his father's service in the Royal Canadian Air Force, and the pivotal moments that led him to join the Air Force.


    From training on the Canadair CT-114 Tutor to flying the iconic F-86 Sabre and CF-104 Starfighter, Allen shares firsthand accounts of Cold War tensions, nuclear deterrence strategies, and the challenges of high-speed, low-level navigation across Europe.


    Around 50% of over 200 Canadian Starfighters were lost in accidents. You’ll hear about Allen’s near-death experience at a West German airbase and many other personal anecdotes that bring history to life.


    Thanks to Bernardo Scheliga who put me in contact with Allen. He and Allen are volunteers at the Canadian Museum of Flight. You can find details here https://canadianflight.org/


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode369


    All our air power episodes in one convenient playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4QVY3bWNLFSd62iBkPzRh9?si=31342ec59eb54762


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The KGB Spies Next Door (368) Oct 04, 2024

    In the sleepy suburb of Ruislip in London during the late 1950s, life was anything but exciting for Gay Search, a 15-year-old girl. Little did she know, her mundane existence was about to be shattered by a shocking revelation that would turn her world upside down.


    This is the gripping tale of suburban espionage, the story begins with the seemingly ordinary Kroger family—Helen and Peter—who live just a stone's throw away from Gay.


    However, beneath their friendly facade lay a dark secret. The Krogers were, in fact, Soviet spies, part of the infamous Portland Spy Ring.


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode368


    All our spy episodes in one convenient playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/40wb3AyJ6oUep10YKXLhtm?si=c72eba540bee4ba4


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    From Sydney to the Vietnam War: An Australian Soldier's Cold War Journey (367) Sep 27, 2024

    In this gripping episode of Cold War Conversations, we hear the remarkable first-hand account of John Brooker, an Australian veteran who takes us on a journey from the streets of Sydney to the battlefields of Vietnam.


    John shares his experiences from joining the Citizens Military Force (CMF) to his deployment with the Royal New South Wales Lancers and the regular army.


    He provides vivid details of the Tet Offensive of 1968, the intense firefights, and the harrowing experience of being mortared for the first time.


    John also reflects on the challenges of returning to civilian life and the mixed reception from the Australian public and World War II veterans.


    Don't miss this powerful and insightful episode!


    Related episodes

    • Vietnam War draftee to US Army Ranger https://pod.fo/e/10388d
    • Just another day in Vietnam https://pod.fo/e/ac3e7
    • Don – Vietnam War Armoured Cavalry Platoon Leader https://pod.fo/e/a08dc
    • Cold War Tank Tales from the Land Down Under https://pod.fo/e/2078b9
    • Further Cold War Tank Tales from the Land Down Under https://pod.fo/e/20dda1
    • Australian Cold War Maritime Air Patrols https://pod.fo/e/21e35d


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode367/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Unveiling Cold War Secrets: Hack Green Regional Seat of Government Bunker museum (366) Sep 20, 2024

    It's 40 years since the film Threads was shown on British TV. It portrayed the effects of a nuclear attack on the city of Sheffield, England and the eventual long-term effects of nuclear war on civilization. It therefore seems apt to publish a tour I had of the Hack Green Regional Seat of Government Bunker museum.


    Nestled in the heart of Cheshire, Hack Green Nuclear Bunker is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Cold War era. I had the pleasure of exploring this historical site with Rod Siebert who originally bought the bunker and volunteer David Smith, who shared their extensive knowledge and passion for this remarkable place.


    The bunker contains many unique artefacts such as the largest public collection of nuclear weapons casings in Europe, including Polaris, Trident, Chevaline and WE 177, the UK's last airdrop nuclear deterrent.


    Other rare and unique items include the Queen's transition to war telephone, which would have been used by the UK government to communicate with Buckingham Palace in the event of war.


    Hack Green is not just a museum; it's a time capsule that offers a unique and sobering insight into the Cold War era. Whether you're a history buff, a fan of military technology, or simply curious about this hidden piece of history, Hack Green is a must-visit.


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode365/


    Related episodes


    • How Cold War Britain prepared for Nuclear War https://pod.fo/e/172825
    • The man who built his own nuclear bunker https://pod.fo/e/12af02
    • The last voice you'd hear in a nuclear war https://pod.fo/e/186a6d
    • Cold War leaflets and secret documents https://pod.fo/e/157f2
    • Assigned to a government bunker https://pod.fo/e/13303
    • Visiting a Royal Observer Corps monitoring post and interview with the Chief Observer who served in the post https://pod.fo/e/f82a
    • Alistair McCann has preserved a Royal Observer Corps monitoring post as a museum in Northern Ireland. https://pod.fo/e/f83d


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Siege: The Remarkable Story of the Greatest SAS Hostage Drama with Ben Macintyre (365) Sep 13, 2024

    On April 30, 1980, six heavily armed gunmen burst into the Iranian embassy on Princes Gate, overlooking Hyde Park in London. There they took 26 hostages, including embassy staff, visitors, and three British citizens.


    I talk with Britain’s bestselling historian Ben Macintyre who has written a new book called “The Siege: The Remarkable Story of the Greatest SAS Hostage Drama”. The book details the tense six-day siege ensued as millions gathered around screens across the country to witness the longest news flash in British television history, in which police negotiators and psychiatrists sought a bloodless end to the standoff, while the SAS – hitherto an organisation shrouded in secrecy – laid plans for a daring rescue mission: Operation Nimrod.


    Drawing on unpublished source material, exclusive interviews with the SAS, and testimony from witnesses including hostages, negotiators, intelligence officers and the on-site psychiatrist, bestselling historian Ben Macintyre takes readers on a gripping journey from the years and weeks of build-up on both sides, to the minute-by-minute account of the siege and rescue.


    Recreating the dramatic conversations between negotiators and hostages, the cutting-edge intelligence work happening behind-the-scenes, and the media frenzy around this moment of international significance, The Siegeis the remarkable story of what really happened on those fateful six days, and the first full account of a moment that forever changed the way the nation thought about the SAS – and itself.


    Buy the book and support the podcast https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9780241675670


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode365/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod


    00:00 Start

    00:51 Introduction

    03:53 Why is the book unique?

    08:51 What were the political motivations of the gunmen?

    16:30 How did the attack start?

    23:50 Who is being held hostage?

    27:25 The situation in the embassy in the first few days

    35:31 Police negotiations

    40:55 The SAS go in!

    49:06 What happens to the gunmen?

    51:12 PC Trevor Locke concealed his gun for six days during hostage crisis

    54:16 The ending of the siege

    55:26 How the siege raised Britain's military profile

    58:33 The book about the siege will be turned into a television drama




    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    From Sheffield to Sandhurst: A Cold War Territorial Soldier's Memories (364) Sep 06, 2024

    Chris is a former member of the Yorkshire Volunteers, part of Cold War Britain’s Territorial reserve Army. This episode is a treasure trove of personal anecdotes, historical insights, and reflections on military life, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in military history and the Cold War era.


    Chris’s journey into the military began with his interest in military subjects and history. He joined the Army Cadet Force before university and later, the Officer Training Corps at Sheffield University. As a reserve unit, training included handling World War II vintage weapons including the venerable Bren gun.


    Chris’s training involved long days and nights of exercises and lectures. He recalls an incident at the School of Infantry in Warminster where he inadvertently came under live fire. Despite his initial lack of physical prowess, Chris’s perseverance and dedication saw him through, eventually leading to his decision to pursue a commission as an officer.

    After training and assessment at Sandhurst, Chris was commissioned as a second lieutenant. The transition from private soldier to officer was challenging, particularly as he had to command men who previously outranked him. However, Chris’s determination and growing confidence helped him establish himself as a capable leader.


    Looking back, Chris reflects on the camaraderie, the challenges, and the humorous moments that defined his military service. He also discusses the reality of PTSD, sharing insights from a friend who served in Iraq.


    Related episodes


    • Britain's 1980s Cold War Dads Army/Home Guard - The Home Service Force https://pod.fo/e/14aea3



    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode364


    Want to hear more military stories of the Cold War?

    Here are all our military episodes in one convenient playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/22Tf4FcjFWQB1Jh4hpYJDg?si=d1cac1f026fb4783


    • The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history.


    • You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    • 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
    • Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    From East Berlin to Ireland: A Cold War Journey of Resilience (363) Aug 30, 2024

    Juli begins by recounting her early years in East Berlin, a time marked by the tragic loss of her father. Drafted into the army just days before her birth, her father continually deserted to see his family, ultimately leading to his untimely death. This early loss left Juli and her mother to

    navigate a harsh landscape in East Germany alone.


    Life in East Berlin was a world of contrasts. Juli describes the indoctrination she experienced in school, where lessons were steeped in socialist propaganda. The Berlin Wall, a symbol of division and oppression, loomed large in her family's life, cutting them off from relatives in the West. Despite the regime's efforts to control information, Juli's family found ways to glimpse the outside world through Western television channels, fuelling her desire for freedom.


    As Juli grew older, she became increasingly aware of the regime's lies and the oppressive nature of the state. The revolutionary movements of the late 1980s, sparked by events like the Tiananmen Square massacre, galvanized her. Juli joined the Monday demonstrations in Leipzig, risking her safety to demand change.


    Juli’s story doesn’t end with the fall of the Wall. She moved to Ireland, where she built a new life and family. Her reflections on transitioning from a controlled, oppressive state to a free society are profound. She speaks candidly about the challenges of adapting to a new way of life and the lingering impact of her upbringing.


    East Germany episode playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1gHCa6R8q5OXkUncJQmyFm?si=9cc56794cf7244bc


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode363/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history.


    You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.




    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    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

    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    BRIXMIS and the Secret Cold War - Intelligence Collecting Operations Behind Enemy Lines in East Germany (362) Aug 23, 2024

    BRIXMIS and its operations behind enemy lines continue to fascinate the listeners of Cold War Conversations. In August 2024 I was honoured to be invited to the National Army Museum in London to interview Andrew Long, the author of BRIXMIS and the Secret Cold War - Intelligence Collecting Operations Behind Enemy Lines in East Germany.


    The National Army Museum is a leading authority on the British Army and its impact on society past and present. It’s well worth a visit, particularly their Foe to Friend exhibition about the British Army in Germany since 1945 which is on until the end of September 2024.


    In front of a sellout audience including approximately 50 BRIXMIS veterans and their families, we discuss the role, purpose and achievements of BRIXMIS. The accompanying presentation can be viewed here.


    The interview starts with an introduction from former BRIXMIS officer Major General Peter Williams and Chairman of the BRIXMIS Association. I’m delighted to welcome Peter Williams, Andrew Long and a sellout audience at the National Army Museum to our Cold War Conversation.


    Buy the book and support the podcast https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781399067843


    Linked episodes


    • BRIXMIS, the defence of Cold War Berlin & Rudolf Hess https://pod.fo/e/f833
    • Pete – a BRIXMIS driver behind enemy lines in East Germany https://pod.fo/e/eeb4c
    • Arrested 11 times, plus 3 shooting incidents – a BRIXMIS officer’s diary Pt 1 https://pod.fo/e/13af96
    • Imprisoned in a Soviet Military gaol - a BRIXMIS officer's diary Pt 2 https://pod.fo/e/13ca90
    • In conversation with 7 BRIXMIS veterans – Part 1 https://pod.fo/e/1599d9
    • In conversation with 7 BRIXMIS veterans – Part 2 https://pod.fo/e/15b0ac
    • Royal Military Police versus the Soviets (SOXMIS) in Cold War West Germany https://pod.fo/e/12c9d6
    • Behind enemy lines in East Germany with a US Military Liaison Mission driver Part 1 https://pod.fo/e/d4229
    • Behind enemy lines in East Germany with a US Military Liaison Mission driver Part 2 https://pod.fo/e/d757b
    • Soviet and U.S. Military Liaison Missions & US Counterintelligence https://pod.fo/e/e4f55
    • Cold War US Army Intelligence Analyst https://pod.fo/e/1f383
    • US Army Intelligence gathering in the unified Germany https://pod.fo/e/b2cb3



    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode362/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod


    00:00 Introduction

    12:06 Post war Germany was split into four occupation zones

    16:35 BRIXMIS offices in Berlin and East Germany

    21:06 Contacts between Soviets and British

    23:27 The tour role in East Germany

    30:16 Exploiting intelligence from Soviet rubbish tips

    32:15 Restricted areas in East Germany

    35:55 Missions and intelligence scoops

    40:04 Descriptions of special equipment

    42:05 BRIXMIS Cars

    44:01 James Bond switches

    47:59 Photography

    50:36 Overnighting in East Germany

    53:25 There East German and Soviet opposition

    56:58 Close scrapes and fatalities

    01:02 Where to buy the book

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    To Catch a Spy - How the Spycatcher Affair Brought MI5 in from the Cold (361) Aug 16, 2024

    The Spycatcher affair remains one of the most intriguing moments in the history of British intelligence and a pivotal point in the public's relationship with the murky world of espionage and security.


    It lifted the lid on alleged Soviet infiltration of British services and revealed a culture of law-breaking, bugging and burgling. But how much do we know about the story behind the scandal?


    Tim Tate is the author of To Catch a Spy - How the Spycatcher Affair Brought MI5 in from the Cold and in this episode he reveals the astonishing true story of the British government's attempts to silence whistleblower and ex MI5 Spycatcher Peter Wright and hide the truth about Britain's intelligence services and political elites.


    This is a tale of high treason and low farce. Drawing on thousands of pages of previously unpublished court transcripts, the contents of secret British government files, and original interviews with many of the key players in the Spycatcher trials.


    It draws back the curtain on a hidden world. A world where spies, politicians and Britain's most senior civil servants conspired to ride roughshod over the law, prevented the public from hearing about their actions and mounted a cynical conspiracy to deceive the world.


    Related episodes


    • Guy Burgess and the Cambridge Spy Ring https://pod.fo/e/a5e38
    • Charlotte Philby talks about her grandfather Soviet spy Kim Philby https://pod.fo/e/115bd7
    • Spy Who Was Left Out in the Cold: The Secret History of Agent Goleniewski https://pod.fo/e/cd2e1


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode361/


    • The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history.


    • You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


    • Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
    • Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
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    • Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

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    The longest-held prisoner of war in American history (360) Aug 09, 2024

    Jack Downey was the longest-held prisoner of war in American history. He was a CIA officer captured in China during the Korean War and imprisoned for twenty-one years.


    I speak with Barry Werth the author of Prisoner of Lies - Jack Downey's Cold War. He details Downey’s story when the CIA recruited him as a new Yale graduate in the post-World War II years. In a violation of protocol, Downey took part in an airdrop that failed and was captured over China.


    US government policy forbade ever acknowledging the identity of spies, no matter the consequences. Washington invented a fictitious cover story and stood by it through four Administrations. As a result, Downey was imprisoned during the decades that Red China, as it was called, was considered by the US to be a hostile nation.


    This is a harrowing, chilling story of one man whose life is at the mercy of larger forces outside of his control; in Downey’s case as a pawn of the Cold War, and more specifically the Oval Office and the State Department.


    However above all, it is an inspiring story of remarkable fortitude and resilience.


    Buy the book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/3LRQyvW


    Linked episodes


    Gary Powers & the 1960 U2 Incident https://pod.fo/e/f830

    The Chinese Civil War and the Independence of Taiwan https://pod.fo/e/b9f5d



    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode360/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    The Soviet Sixties (359) Aug 02, 2024

    Beginning with the death of Stalin in 1953, the “sixties” era in the Soviet Union was just as vibrant and transformative as in the West. The ideological romanticism of the revolutionary years was revived, with a renewed emphasis on egalitarianism, equality, and the building of a communist utopia.


    Mass terror was reined in, great victories were won in the space race, Stalinist cultural dogmas were challenged, and young people danced to jazz and rock and roll.

    I speak with Robert Hornsby who has written "the Soviet Sixties" which examines this remarkable and surprising period, showing that, even as living standards rose, aspects of earlier days endured.


    Censorship and policing remained tight, and massacres during protests in Tbilisi and Novocherkassk, alongside invasions of Hungary and Czechoslovakia, showed the limits of reform. The rivalry with the United States reached perhaps its most volatile point, friendship with China turned to bitter enmity, and global decolonization opened up new horizons for the USSR in the developing world.


    These tumultuous years transformed the lives of Soviet citizens and helped reshape the wider world.


    Buy the book here & support the podcast https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9780300250527


    Related episodes


    • My father was Nikita Khrushchev Part 1 https://pod.fo/e/f831
    • My father was Nikita Khrushchev Part 2 https://pod.fo/e/f82f
    • The Cuban Missile Crisis https://pod.fo/e/143b25
    • Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev https://pod.fo/e/f9094
    • A freedom fighter in the 1956 Hungarian Revolution https://pod.fo/e/b1813
    • The Prague Spring https://pod.fo/e/f83a


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode359/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

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    Low Flying the Cold War USAF F-111 Nuclear Bomber (358) Jul 27, 2024

    Due to personal circumstances, I’ve been unable to produce a new episode this week, however, you will be aware of the many gems in the back catalogue and I have chosen one of my favourites today which is a rip-roaring story of service in the USAF with Rick Shreve an F111 pilot which I know you will enjoy. Normal service should be resumed next week.


    Rick Shreve was a US Air Force F 111 pilot based at RAF Lakenheath in the UK. He was trained to carry out nuclear as well as conventional missions against the Warsaw Pact forces in Europe. Rick describes his low-level training missions to attack targets in the Soviet Union and East Germany, where he recalls a near-fatal incident amongst the Scottish lochs.


    Rick was also part of one of the crews that flew on Operation El Dorado Canyon, the operation to bomb Libya in April 1986 in retaliation for the West Berlin discotheque bombing ten days earlier.


    Rick gives you a very frank and honest view of his role in the US Air Force and his approach to the huge responsibilities he carried.



    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode358/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    Reporting on the 1989 Revolution in Romania and the Czechoslovak Velvet Revolution (357) Jul 19, 2024

    Allan Little recounts his journey from his student days in Edinburgh to working as a journalist the front lines of Cold War history in Eastern Europe and beyond.

    In 1989 he found himself on the night shift at the BBC’s Today programme in London when the Berlin Wall fell. Witnessing the world change in real time Allan’s desire to be part of these monumental events grew stronger.


    He shares is his experience as a journalist during the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia. Allan describes the electrifying atmosphere of Wenceslas Square and the fear of a violent crackdown.


    Allan also takes us to Romania during the fall of Nicolae Ceaușescu's brutal regime. He recounts in detail the chaos, the gunfire, and the bloody reality of the revolution’s human cost .

    The episode also delves into his time covering the 1991 Gulf War in Baghdad. He describes the eerie experience of watching the city being bombed from his hotel room and the resilience of the people around him.


    As the episode draws to a close, Allan reflects on the lessons he's learned from his career. He reminds us that while we may know what a society is transitioning from, we should be cautious in predicting what it is transitioning to. His insights are a powerful reminder of the complexities of history and the importance of journalism.


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode357/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    Mafia Spies and the CIA Plot to Kill Fidel Castro (356) Jul 16, 2024

    Thomas Maier an investigative journalist is our guide to the shadowy world of organized crime and espionage where shares insights from his extensive research and writing, including his latest book and drama documentary "Mafia Spies," which explores the unlikely alliance between the CIA and the Mafia in their attempts to assassinate Fidel Castro.


    We dive into the lives of two central figures in "Mafia Spies": Sam Giancana and Johnny Roselli. Giancana, the head of the Chicago mob in the early 1960s, and Roselli, the mafia's fixer in Hollywood, had a complex relationship that intertwined with the glamorous world of celebrities and the dark underworld of organized crime. Thomas elaborates on Giancana's personal turmoil following the sudden death of his wife and his increasing involvement with Roselli in Las Vegas.


    We explore the intriguing character of Judy Campbell, who was introduced to Frank Sinatra and eventually to John F. Kennedy, becoming a key player in this intricate web of relationships.

    The episode uncovers the CIA's covert operations to eliminate Castro, detailing the various assassination attempts and the involvement of Mafia figures like Giancana and Roselli. Thomas provides a fascinating look at the historical context and the extensive espionage network set up by Castro with the help of the Soviets.


    We also examine the ethical implications of the CIA's collaboration with the Mafia, the internal conflicts within the U.S. government, and the ultimate fates of Giancana and Roselli.

    The Paramount Showtime series based on "Mafia Spies," is released on July 16, and promises to bring this captivating story to a wider audience.


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode356/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Teaching English in East Germany (355) Jul 12, 2024

    Bärbel was born in a village near Magdeburg in 1962, She explores her personal and professional life growing up in East Germany.


    We delve into her family's views on the East German government, her journey to becoming a teacher, and her experiences teaching English. We cover gender roles and the pressures to become a member of the communist party.


    Also discussed are the ideological and societal differences between East and West Germany, as well as the impact of the Berlin Wall's fall.


    Bärbel reflects on her career transition post-reunification, her family's life, the significant changes in Magdeburg and details her first trip to the UK.


    Highlighting the joy and challenges she faced, the episode provides a comprehensive insight into the daily life and career of a teacher in East Germany.


    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode355/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Cold War Nuclear Bombing Missions and a UFO Encounter (354) Jul 05, 2024

    Cold War RAF pilot Jeremy Lane, shares his gripping experiences, from nuclear bombing missions to a close encounter with a UFO.

    He was trained to fly the Canberra aircraft on nuclear bombing missions and describes how the American weaponry they would have used required dual control from both the President of the United States and the British Prime Minister.

    Jeremy also describes the Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) duties where aircraft were always on standby, ready to fly their nuclear missions at a moment's notice.

    He shares his experiences with escape and evasion training, designed to prepare pilots for the possibility of being shot down over enemy territory. The training was gruelling, involving everything from water survival exercises, evading capture in the wilderness and how to stand up to interrogation. It was a stark reminder of the risks these pilots faced daily.

    However, it wasn't all tension and drills. Life on the squadron had its moments of camaraderie and even humour. Our guest recounts how young pilots, feeling invincible, would joke about heading west instead of completing their mission if war ever broke out.

    The episode concludes with a truly extraordinary story—a close encounter with a UFO. During a night flight exercise, our guest, his crew and other aircraft witnessed a mysterious, pulsating object in the sky.

    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode354/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    00:00 Mysterious Shape in the Sky

    00:25 Introduction to Cold War Conversations

    01:53 American Nuclear Weaponry and Dual Control

    04:56 Life on Quick Reaction Alert

    12:54 Navigating and Bombing Techniques

    21:32 Positive Vetting Process

    28:57 Suicide Mission Realities

    29:35 A Surreal Briefing at Laarbruch

    33:47 Escape and Evasion Training

    36:26 Life on a Frontline Squadron

    42:23 Disillusionment with the Air Force

    55:09 Transition to Civilian Life

    56:24 A Close Encounter with a UFO

    01:02:12 Podcast Conclusion and Extras


    Cold War, Raf Pilot, Jeremy Lane, Nuclear Bombing Missions, Canberra Aircraft, Ufo Sighting, Quick Reaction Alert, Escape And Evasion Training, Cold War Aviation, Dual-Control Weaponry, American Weaponry, Cold War Podcast, Military Aviation, Night Flight Exercise, Pulsating Object, Cold War History, British Military, Cold War Stories, Cold War Intelligence, Cold War Missions

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Cheltenham Schoolboy to Cold War Canberra Jet Pilot (353) Jun 28, 2024

    Jeremy Lane’s fascination for aviation was nurtured by countless childhood hours watching aircraft at Staverton Airport and North Weald.

    He shares his experiences flying the Jet Provost and later, the Canberra. He describes the capabilities of this versatile and iconic aircraft, from high-speed reconnaissance to its nuclear role.

    The Canberra's design, with its twin jet engines and rudimentary navigation equipment, required high skill and constant attention. The stories of flying at low levels, navigating with minimal aids, and the ever-present risk of engine failure provide a gripping insight into the life of an RAF pilot.

    This episode is a treasure trove of aviation history and personal anecdotes. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about the life of an RAF pilot, this episode offers a compelling and immersive experience.

    Tune in next week part 2 where we go into detail about the challenges of nuclear operations along the edge of the Iron Curtain.

    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode353/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    A Cold War Hungarian Journey Through War, Revolution, and Emigration (352) Jun 21, 2024

    In this comprehensive narrative, Imre recounts his life from his birth in 1936 in Hungary to his emigration to the West after the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.

    He discusses the influence of his family’s Hungarian and German heritage, his father’s work in the oil industry, and the impact of World War II and communist rule on his upbringing.

    The account vividly describes his education, military training, and involvement in the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. He also highlights his subsequent escape to Austria and eventual resettlement in England including living with Bridget’s parents who featured in episode 322

    Imre elaborates on the hardships faced by his family due to political changes and the repressive regime, as well as his educational and professional journey in the UK, culminating in a successful international career.

    His narrative provides a poignant look at the personal ramifications of leaving your country and the impact on relatives left behind.

    Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode352/

    Listen to Bridget’s story here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode322/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Mutiny in the East German Army (351) Jun 14, 2024

    In this riveting account, Tilo recounts his experiences as an East German soldier during the final months of East Germany.

    He details the rising political awareness among soldiers, and his fear that his unit will be asked to shoot on demonstrators also provides a personal perspective on the pivotal moments leading up to and following the fall of the Berlin Wall, including attending massive protests and his first visit to West Berlin.

    Spurred by a broadcasted precedent of concession to striking soldiers in another barrack, Tilo and his comrades orchestrated what can only be described as a mutiny: a demand for rights, dignity, and acknowledgement of the transformative tide sweeping through East Germany.

    The fall of the Berlin Wall is often recounted in grand narratives of geopolitical shifts, but regular Cold War Conversations listeners will know that it is stories like Tilo's that remind us that behind monumental changes are individuals and communities.

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode351/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Face to face with the Soviets at the Cold War Reykjavik Summit between President Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev (350) Jun 07, 2024

    This episode is brought to you by the CNN Original Series Secrets & Spies: A Nuclear Game which premieres 2nd June 2024 and is available now on BBC Iplayer). The series tracks the spies operating behind the scenes in the 1980s as the Cold War brings two superpowers to the brink of nuclear war.

    This razor-sharp series examines the tenuousness of global geopolitics during the Cold War and features my guest Ken Adelman who served as the Director of the U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency for nearly five years during the Reagan administration.

    In our episode, Ken places you face to face with the Soviets during the tense nuclear arms negotiations at the 1986 Reykjavik Summit between President Reagan and Soviet Leader Mikhail Gorbachev.

    Planned as a short gathering it quickly developed into major international issues and the possibility of eliminating all nuclear weapons...

    Buy Ken's book here https://amzn.to/3R7ei2n

    Extra video content here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode350/

    Episodes mentioned: 1983 the Year the Cold War Almost Turned Hot https://coldwarconversations.com/episode316/

    CNN Original Series Secrets & Spies: A Nuclear Game https://cnncreativemarketing.com/project/secrets-spies/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly or annual donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history.

    You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    The President’s Kill List - Assassination and US Foreign Policy since 1945 (349) May 31, 2024

    Luca Trenta is an associate professor at Swansea University and has recently authored The President's Kill List: Assassination and US Foreign Policy Since 1945. We dig in detail into the contents of the book delving into the history of Cold War CIA operations including instances of electoral interference and assassination.

    Our conversation explores key historical episodes, including U.S. actions in Italy, Cuba, Chile, and assassinations in the context of the Cold War.

    Case studies feature notable figures such as Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, Salvador Allende and René Schneider. Our discussion includes the impact of investigative journalism, the intricacies of covert planning, and the eventual exposure of these actions.

    Luca also shares his personal story of a memorable dinner with former President Jimmy Carter.

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode349/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    The sinking of the USS Scorpion and the Velvet Revolution (348) May 28, 2024

    I’m a big fan of the History Daily podcast, where my good friend Lindsay Graham takes you back in time to explore a momentous moment that happened ‘on this day’ in history. Visit Historydaily.com or search History Daily in your podcast app to learn more.

    As an introduction to History Daily I have selected two Cold War-themed episodes that I know you will enjoy.

    The first is the story of the nuclear-powered submarine USS Scorpion which disappeared in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean with 99 men on board on May 22, 1968.

    The second is the story of the Velvet Revolution when on November 17, 1989. Police violently shut down a student demonstration in Prague, sparking a revolution that ended communist rule in Czechoslovakia.


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    A US Diplomat's Son in Cold War Soviet Union, Nicaragua and Cuba (347) May 24, 2024

    In this fascinating interview, Patrick D. Joyce recounts his unique experience growing up as the son of a U.S. diplomat during the Cold War.

    Living in the diplomatic community of the Soviet Union, Nicaragua, and Cuba, Patrick shares vivid memories of his father's career as a Soviet and linguistic expert, who rose to become Deputy Ambassador at both the Moscow and Havana US embassies.

    The discussion touches on the juxtaposition of ordinary family life in various U.S. embassies around the world alongside the extraordinary circumstances of espionage and international relations, highlighting the complexities and contradictions of living in hostile countries during tense political times.

    The narrative weaves through personal anecdotes, school experiences, interactions with local populations, and the evolving geopolitical landscape, providing a deeply personal lens on historical events.

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode347/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Patrick D. Joyce is the author of two Cold War thrillers for young adults: Back in the USSR and Strawberry Fields. Learn more about Patrick and his books at https://patrickdjoyce.com.

    Obituary in The Foreign Service Journal for Patrick’s father, John M. “Mike” Joyce:

    https://afsa.org/sites/default/files/flipping_book/070823/90/

    “The Old Russian Legacy,” by John M. Joyce, in Foreign Policy (1984):

    https://www.jstor.org/stable/1148385

    “La guerra de la CIA contra Cuba,” the 1987 Cuban TV exposé that aired the night before Patrick’s family departed Havana:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqdlRcs06-Y

    The Washington Post on the Cuban TV exposé:

    https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/1987/07/25/spy-charges-strain-us-cuban-ties/d1a4ecc6-a7f6-4765-9a74-16a2d925b2eb/

    James Olson on Foreign Policy’s I Spy podcast, with a recently revealed backstory to the Cuban TV exposé:

    https://foreignpolicy.com/podcasts/ispy/?episode=the-counterspy

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    0:00 Introduction to Cold War Conversations

    00:27 Meet Patrick D Joyce: A Diplomat's Son

    01:37 Early Life and Family Background

    04:44 Life in the Diplomatic Community

    09:06 Experiences in the Soviet Union

    19:00 Return to Moscow in the 80s

    23:58 Navigating Diplomatic Life

    29:06 Reflections and Writing Novels

    30:13 Arrival in Managua: A Soviet Satellite

    30:52 Life Amidst Conflict: The Contra War

    32:41 Navigating Diplomatic Challenges

    35:03 Teenage Adventures in a War-Torn City

    38:04 Spies Among Us: Embassy Life Revealed

    40:46 Transition to Havana: A Diplomatic Shift

    42:54 Living in Havana: Between Luxury and Hostility

    46:44 A Summer Job in Havana

    48:04 Suspicions and Scandals: The Spy Question

    54:31 Return to Moscow: A New Era

    58:56 Life in Moscow: Socializing and Escaping

    01:00:18 Final Departure: A Road Trip to Freedom

    01:01:08 Episode Extras and Acknowledgements

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    East German Army Bullying, Serving in a Brigade HQ and Military Exercises (346) May 17, 2024

    Warning: This episode does cover the subject of suicide. If you need help please use these links:

    • UK https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
    • Rest of the World https://findahelpline.com/i/iasp


    Tilo shares his raw and powerful testimony of a young man conscripted into the East German military at the height of Cold War tensions. He recounts the daunting prospect of being drafted into the border guards, an assignment he was determined to avoid at all costs due to his moral opposition to the Berlin Wall and the potential to be forced into shooting unarmed escapers.


    Tilo vividly describes the intense medical and psychological scrutiny he faced from military officials and shares the ingenious way he ensured he wouldn't be placed in the border guards, a tactic that involved a bold statement of conscience in front of a military panel.


    The episode also delves into the harsh realities of East German military life, from the ritual humiliations of new recruits to the tragic story of a comrade's suicide attempt under the pressures of service. We explore the psychological toll of such an environment and the coping mechanisms soldiers use to survive.


    Tilo also describes working in an artillery brigade headquarters, an unusual tactic to prevent Allied Military Liaison Missions from identifying their vehicles and an attack by East German paratroops during an exercise.

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode346/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    00:00 Trigger Warning and Introduction

    00:54 Tilo's Early Life and Draft Experience

    02:43 Avoiding the Border Guards

    10:27 Life in the Artillery Brigade

    14:37 Harsh Realities and Hazing

    18:14 Comrade's Suicide Attempt

    35:03 Zyklus 89 Exercise and Conclusion

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    America's Cold War Scottish Bastion (345) May 10, 2024

    David McKay is a former Cold War special forces officer and author of Bubbleheads, SEALs and Wizards: America's Scottish Bastion in the Cold War.

    His book highlights the Scottish bases' significant role in supporting the US military over three decades.

    David brings his expertise into play, examining this intriguing story by reaching out to more than one hundred veterans and expert witnesses. Their contributions reveal the personal stories of history, not high-end diplomacy.

    We also delve into the espionage efforts mounted by the KGB against these bases through trawlers and agents on the ground.

    Among the many stories that David details are the nuclear missile submarine operations from Holy Loch, the large radio spy stations and reveals for the first time one of America’s most bizarre intelligence gathering activities of the early Cold War.

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode345/

    Buy the book and support us here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781849955546

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod


    00:00 Introducing Cold War Conversations and David Mackay

    01:54 David Mackay: From Paratrooper to Cold War Historian

    05:30 The Strategic Importance of Scottish Bases in the Cold War

    08:32 Project Genetrix: Balloons, Espionage, and Cold War Ingenuity

    16:49 The U.S. Submarine Base in Scotland: Strategic Decisions and Local Impact

    26:55 Espionage and Security: Spies, Spetsnaz, and Surveillance

    33:20 The Soviet Presence in Scotland: Trawlers, Spies, and Local Encounters

    41:25 Close Encounters of the Naval Kind

    42:09 The Cat and Mouse of Cold War Submarines

    42:53 Espionage and a High Seas Emergency

    44:13 Gathering Intel

    46:21 Signals Intelligence and the Scottish Connection

    56:14 The Strategic Importance of Machrihanish

    01:04:56 Prestwick Airport: A Cold War Crossroads

    01:08:29 Reflecting on the Cuban Missile Crisis

    01:11:37 Personal Anecdotes and Cold War Reflections

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    The Challenges of a Christian East German Childhood (344) May 03, 2024

    Tilo offers an engaging and personal account of growing up in East Berlin before the fall of the Berlin Wall. He begins by describing his early childhood in a rundown building in Prenzlauer Berg before moving to a new prefab neighbourhood in Lichtenberg.

    Tilo’s grandfather on his mother’s side was a pastor in the Lutheran church and second in command to a Bishop at the end of his career. His grandfather on his father’s side had been a teacher and had joined the Nazi party After the World War Two he was banned from working.

    Tilo’s family faced educational and career limitations due to their religious and political background compounded by the pervasive influence of the Stasi and party loyalty in determining one’s future.

    Tilo also recounts experiences of attending school with a strong military and ideological indoctrination, including paramilitary training and pressure to join the National People's Army (NVA). Despite these challenges, he describes a vibrant underground punk scene and moments of resistance against the regime.

    The story reflects on the significant socio-political changes during Tilo’s adolescence, including the impact of Chernobyl, the introduction of Glasnost, and the unexpected persistence of Nazi elements in East German society.

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    00:00 Introduction to Cold War Conversations

    00:35 Growing Up in East Berlin: A Personal Journey

    00:48 Family Background and Political Challenges

    01:17 School Life and Ideological Indoctrination

    01:44 The Impact of Glasnost and Political Changes

    03:30 Navigating the Complexities of East German Society

    23:01 Reflections on East German Education and Military Training

    25:55 Facing the Draft and the Pressure to Conform

    41:37 The Punk Scene and Resistance in East Berlin

    46:35 Concluding Thoughts and the Legacy of the Cold War

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    Commanding a Cold War US Navy Nuclear Missile Submarine (343) Apr 26, 2024

    Bill Woodman is a former US Navy nuclear missile submarine commander, who shares his rich experiences from joining the US Naval Academy in 1964 to commanding two SSBN submarines, the USS James Monroe and the USS Alabama during the Cold War.

    Bill opens up about his initial aspirations, rigorous training at the Naval Academy, and his challenging interviews with the legendary Admiral Rickover who directed the original development of US naval nuclear propulsion and controlled its operations for three decades.

    He gives detailed insights into submarine operations, leadership challenges, operational readiness exercises, and the constant concern of being detected by enemy or friendly forces.

    We also delve into Bill's personal challenges and the pressures on submarine families, his final patrol commanding the USS Alabama, and reflections on movies and literature that accurately depict submarine life.

    Throughout, Bill shares anecdotes illustrating the camaraderie, mental fortitude, and technical prowess required to lead in the silent, unseen world of submarine warfare.

    Extra episode content here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode343/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    00:00 A Harrowing Introduction to Admiral Rickover

    00:33 Joining the Cold War Underwater: Bill Woodman's Journey

    02:40 The Rigorous Path to Becoming a Submariner

    04:33 The interview with Admiral Rickover

    11:09 From Nuclear Power School to Submarine Command

    15:50 Commanding the Depths: Life as a Submarine Commander

    31:37 The Psychological and Family Challenges of Submarine Life

    40:27 Life Aboard a Nuclear Submarine: The Stark Realities

    41:36 Routine and Readiness: The Cycle of a Submariner

    43:12 Rigorous Testing: Ensuring Operational Excellence

    47:22 The Unthinkable Scenario: Letters of Last Resort and Defence Conditions

    49:45 Cold War Cat and Mouse: Encounters at Sea

    51:04 Leadership Under Pressure: A Harrowing Rescue at Sea

    01:00:46 Interactions and Exercises: Allied Navies and the Soviet Shadow

    01:07:05 Reflections on Command and the Unseen Challenges of Submarine Life

    01:13:59 Submarine Cinema: Authentic Portrayals and Personal Recommendations

    01:15:27 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments

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    My friend the Bridge of Spies spy - Part 2 (342) Apr 19, 2024

    Burt recounts the surreal experience of learning about Fisher's true identity from a newspaper headline, the subsequent FBI interrogations, and the emotional courtroom testimony where he struggled to reconcile his friendship with the stark reality of espionage.

    Burt's journey leads him to Moscow in a failed attempt to reconnect with Fisher, revealing a labyrinthine world of secrets and paranoia. He shares a heartfelt letter he left for Fisher, expressing regret and longing for a simpler time when art, not intrigue, was their common ground.

    As a testament to the personal connection they shared, Burt unveils a handcrafted wooden box—a wedding gift made by Fisher himself—symbolizing the genuine human connection that endured despite the shadowy world they navigated.

    This episode is a poignant exploration of identity, memory, and the complex human relationships that defy the black-and-white narrative of the Cold War.

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode342

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history.

    You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Connect with us on social media for more Cold War content:

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    For the perfect gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life, visit our store at https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    If you love history, check out Into History at https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

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    My friend the Bridge of Spies spy - Part 1 (341) Apr 12, 2024

    In a riveting episode that peels back the layers of Cold War espionage, we sit down with Burt, an artist who unwittingly befriended a man better known as Colonel Abel, the infamous Bridge of Spies Spy who was exchanged for shot down US U2 pilot Gary Powers.

    Burt knew Abel as Emil Goldfuss but his real name was Willie Fisher from Newcastle Upon Tyne in England. Fisher was a Soviet agent deeply embedded in the fabric of New York City's bustling art scene.

    Burt's tale unfolds in a studio building exclusively for artists, where he first crossed paths with Fisher in an old-fashioned elevator—an encounter that would mark the beginning of an unexpected friendship.

    Burt reminisces about their shared moments, from the peculiar request for a cup of turpentine to late-night discussions surrounded by the haze of cigarette smoke. He reflects on the nuances of their bond, the fatherly figure he saw in Fisher, and the mutual need for companionship that transcended the spy's professional obligations.

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode341/

    Don’t miss part two of this amazing conversation next week…

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history.

    You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Connect with us on social media for more Cold War content:

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    For the perfect gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life, visit our store at https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    If you love history, check out Into History at https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

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    A Diver Sapper in the Cold War Soviet Navy (340) Apr 05, 2024

    Valeriy was a Soviet Navy diver sapper and was born and raised in Kyiv, Ukraine. I have used a human translator for this episode so the main voice you will hear is my translator Galina Ryabova who was kindly funded by one of my financial supporters

    Valeriy opens up about his childhood, the impact of the Great Patriotic War on his family, and his mother's resilience in raising him after his father's untimely death. He shares insights into his schooling, where history and geography sparked his curiosity, and his early military training which set the stage for his specialised role in the Soviet Navy.

    Valeriy offers a rare glimpse into the life of a Soviet Navy diver sapper, trained in both underwater firearms and explosives, tasked with clearing mines to pave the way for naval infantry. He provides revealing insights into underwater warfare during the 1980s.

    His unit was stationed near Kaliningrad, where he describes his equipment and the day-to-day life that included guarding, surveillance, and rigorous half-yearly military exercises.

    Reflecting on the broader scope of the Cold War, Valeri discusses his perceptions of the US and NATO, the political climate under Gorbachev, and the aftermath of the USSR's dissolution.

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Gymnastics and Pills: An East German Childhood (339) Mar 30, 2024

    Sirka offers a comprehensive exploration of life in East Germany, detailing the experiences of growing up in Neubrandenburg, the influence of the East German state and the Stasi, and the societal impacts of Mikhail Gorbachev's policies leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall.

    She also talks of her intensive gymnastics training and being given pills by her trainer...

    Sirka also describes the transition to reunification, highlighting the challenges of adapting to a new economic system and the mixed feelings toward sudden exposure to Western consumer culture.

    Additionally, it includes a reflective conversation on post-reunification life in Germany, discussing Sirka's and her family's adjustment to the changes, including the effects on employment, homeownership, and personal political histories.

    Video and photo extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode339

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history.

    You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Connect with us on social media for more Cold War content:

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    For the perfect gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life, visit our store at https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    If you love history, check out Into History at https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod


    00:00 Preview

    00:22 Welcome to Cold War Conversations

    00:36 Life in East Germany: An Insider's Perspective

    01:50 Circa's Childhood and Family Life in Neubrandenburg

    03:33 The Impact of World War II on Family Histories

    05:42 Navigating Post-War East Germany

    07:53 The East German Regime Through a Family's Eyes

    10:31 Cultural and Educational Experiences in East Germany

    23:23 The Challenges of Consumer Goods and Entertainment

    25:39 School Life and Education in East Germany

    34:17 Extracurricular Activities: Singing Club and Gymnastics

    44:58 The Intensity of Gymnastics Training in East Germany

    46:15 The Secret Gymnastics Pills

    48:14 The Grueling Training Regime and Its Impact

    49:46 The Power of Music and Discipline in a Regimented Society

    50:38 The Harsh Realities of Military-Style Training

    51:39 Life Under an Autocratic System: Acceptance and Adaptation

    55:26 The Transition to College and the End of Gymnastics

    55:56 Exploring Moscow: A Glimpse into the Space Race

    01:03:37 Witnessing the Winds of Change: The Fall of the Berlin Wall

    01:14:21 Navigating the New World: Post-Wall Challenges and Reflections

    01:25:05 A Journey Back in Time: Revisiting Memories and the Stasi Files

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    The Soviet Afghan War (338) Mar 23, 2024

    The Soviet-Afghan War lasted ten years between 1979-1989 and led to the deaths of between 500k and 2m Afghan civilians.

    I speak with Nick Geering a Russian history and language teacher. From his memories of the haunting sight of uniformed amputees in St Petersburg to the complex origins of the conflict, we explore the intricacies of a war that was both an accident and a tragedy.

    Our conversation traverses the murky politics that led to the Soviet invasion, the unpreparedness of the conscript-heavy Soviet army, and the brutal reality of life for soldiers caught in the mountainous terrain of Afghanistan. We also discuss the question of international support for the Mujahideen and the controversial impact of Western-supplied weaponry.

    The episode also shines a light on the deeply entrenched hierarchy within the Soviet military, harrowing drug abuse among troops, and the chilling treatment of prisoners of war on both sides. As we approach the subject of the Soviet withdrawal, we reflect on the war's enduring scars, the fate of the communist Afghan government, and how the conflict is remembered today in Russia.

    Video and photo extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode338

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history.

    You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    00:00 Introduction to the Complexity of the Soviet-Afghan War

    00:26 Diving Deep into the Soviet-Afghan War with Nick Gearing

    01:38 Nick Gearing's Personal Journey and Initial Exposure to War Veterans

    03:13 Exploring the Intricacies and Origins of the Soviet-Afghan War

    16:17 The Soviet Military's Challenges and Adaptations in Afghanistan

    28:52 Evaluating the Soviet Strategy and Its Impact on the War

    32:51 Unveiling the Truth: The Soviet Union's Hidden War

    33:44 Gorbachev's Legacy and the Path to Peace

    34:27 Glasnost and the Afghan War: A Shift in Soviet Media

    37:19 The Impact of Western Weapons on the Afghan Battlefield

    39:31 The Unseen Side of War: Defections and Captivity

    44:24 The Brutal Reality of Conscript Life in the Soviet Army

    48:46 Drug Abuse Among Soviet Soldiers in Afghanistan

    50:47 The Endgame: Soviet Withdrawal and the Geneva Accords

    53:22 Najibullah's Struggle and the Fate of the Communist Government

    54:46 Revisiting the Afghan War: Memory and Media in Russia

    57:51 Exploring the Soviet-Afghan War Through Books, Films, and Music

    01:03:17 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments

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    Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War on Netflix Podcast (337) Mar 20, 2024

    Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War, is a nine-part documentary series from director Brian Knappenberger, that provides a comprehensive appraisal of the events that led to the Cold War and traces the conflict around the world and through the decades.

    While the Cold War ended in 1991, even a casual appraisal of current headlines reveals that relations between the United States and Russia — the one-time centre of the Soviet Union — remain tense, to say the least. The global repercussions of the Cold War continue to ripple through the current geopolitical landscape to this day, but it can be difficult to understand just how a mid-20th century struggle for ideological dominance continues to ensnare countless nations in ongoing unrest.

    To tell this story, the series draws on more than 100 interviews with subjects ranging from past and present world leaders (Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas) to historians as well as everyday people whose lives were drastically altered by the events of the Cold War. As the history unfolds, each episode considers the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine as an example of how the history being examined is directly tied to the events of today. “Nearly every part of the war in Ukraine is an echo of the Cold War,” Knappenberger explains.

    Watch the series here https://www.netflix.com/title/81614129

    Watch the trailer here https://youtu.be/qHuuLo-CSRo?si=ZaNGZyeP0nZe5Nwp

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

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    00:00 The Chilling Call: A Cold War Nightmare

    00:21 Welcome to Cold War Conversations

    00:39 Inside 'Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War' Documentary

    01:02 The Cold War's Legacy and Today's Nuclear Threats

    03:15 The Making of a Cold War Documentary

    05:09 Why the Cold War Story Matters Now

    06:17 The New Cold War: A Hot and Unstable Conflict

    10:24 The Munich Security Conference: A Turning Point

    13:32 Crafting the Documentary: Challenges and Insights

    15:06 Personal Connections and the Impact of Nuclear Weapons

    19:32 The Importance of First-Person Cold War Accounts

    19:59 Daniel Ellsberg: A Courageous Insider's Perspective

    23:19 Uncovered Stories: The Challenges of Time Constraints

    23:46 Exploring Untold Cold War Stories

    24:37 The Intriguing Case of the AIDS Misinformation Campaign

    28:14 The Ripple Effects of Cold War Decisions

    28:45 Project Sapphire: Securing Nuclear Materials Post-Soviet Union

    30:47 The Budapest Memorandum and Ukraine's Nuclear Dilemma

    34:43 Post-Cold War Transitions and the Rise of Putin

    41:18 Reflecting on the Series: Favorite Moments and Missed Opportunities

    44:48 Dream Interviews: Cold War Figures Who Left a Mark

    49:03 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments

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    Sex, spies and scandal : the John Vassall affair (336) Mar 16, 2024

    Alex Grant’s new book Sex, Spies and Scandal The John Vassall Affair has everything: a honey trap, industrial-scale espionage, journalists jailed for not revealing their sources and the first modern tabloid witch-hunt, which resulted in a ministerial resignation and almost brought down Harold Macmillan’s government.

    With access to newly released MI5 files and interviews with people who knew Vassall from the 1950s until he died in 1996, this book sheds new light on a neglected spy scandal. Despite having been drugged and sexually assaulted by the KGB in Moscow, as a gay man John Vassall was shown no mercy by the British press or the courts.

    Sentenced to eighteen years in jail, he served ten years, despite telling MI5 everything. Once released, he found that many of his old friends and lovers had been persecuted or dismissed from the civil service in Britain, America and Australia.

    Unlike the Cambridge Five, who courted attention, after leaving prison Vassall changed his name to avoid the media and lived quietly in London.

    Buy the book and support the podcast here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781785907883

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode336/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/I

    f a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

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    00:00 Introduction to Cold War Conversations and the John Vassal Affair

    00:36 Unveiling the John Vassal Spy Scandal

    05:49 The Life and Times of John Vassal

    16:15 Vassal's Recruitment by Soviet Intelligence

    37:08 Vassal's Espionage Activities in London

    41:28 The Cold War Thaw and Social Dynamics in Moscow

    42:24 Vassal's Entrapment and the Lax Security

    43:56 The Discovery of a Spy Within the Admiralty

    46:55 The Fallout of Vassal's Capture and Its Impact

    48:33 The Dramatic Arrest of John Vassal

    49:35 Vassal's Immediate Confession and Relief

    53:05 The Aftermath: Legal Proceedings and Public Reaction

    01:05:41 Vassal's Life Post-Imprisonment and Legacy

    01:09:48 Revisiting the Impact of Vassal's Espionage

    01:11:57 Uncovering New Insights from the National Archives

    01:16:55 Reflecting on Vassal's Life and the Broader Historical Context

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    V-Bombers: Britain's Nuclear Frontline in the Cold War (335) Mar 09, 2024

    V-Bombers: Britain's Nuclear Frontline in the Cold War is a new book by Dr Tony Redding that takes a deep dive into Britain's V-bomber force's operational nuclear war role.

    Tony reveals the intense preparations and the stark realities faced by the aircrews, who lived in a perpetual state of wartime readiness despite being in a country at peace. The narrative intertwines technical analysis and personal accounts, offering a comprehensive view of the crews' complex systems and psychological burdens.

    His meticulous research and vivid anecdotes from the veterans themselves paint a fascinating picture of the V force's potential impact in a nuclear war scenario.

    It's a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the delicate Cold War balance of deterrence and the harrowing responsibilities entrusted to the men of the V bomber force.

    Buy Tony’s book on this link and support the podcast at the same time! https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781911667872

    Enter the book giveaway draw here https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway/

    Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode335/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    00:00 Introduction

    00:35 Dr. Tony Redding's Deep Dive into V Bombers

    05:59 The V Force: Britain's Nuclear Deterrent in the Cold War

    11:22 The Evolution of Nuclear Deterrence: From Bombers to Submarines

    24:10 The V Force's Combat Readiness and Training Rigors

    34:26 Surviving a Nuclear Strike: The V Force's Strategic Planning

    38:57 Airborne vs. Ground Alert: The Strategic Dilemma

    40:12 The Impracticality of V Bombers in Nuclear Strikes

    40:56 The Struggle for Airborne Endurance and Refueling

    41:25 Exploring Overseas Basing and Tanker Fleet Limitations

    42:46 Soviet Fears

    44:19 Security Measures and Vulnerabilities at RAF Bases

    47:46 Humorous and Harrowing Tales from the Aircrew

    52:13 The Mental and Emotional Toll on Aircrews

    57:31 Vetting and Security Concerns within the V Force

    01:00:48 Navigating Soviet Defenses: A Hypothetical Mission

    01:05:13 The Unique Challenges and Strategies of V Bombers

    01:10:11 Secret Agreements and the Route Over Sweden

    01:11:45 The Grim Realities of a Nuclear Mission

    01:18:52 Decoy Tactics and Morale Issues

    01:21:29 Conclusion and Further Resources

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    On the Streets of Cold War Estonia fighting for Independence (334) Mar 02, 2024

    Timo takes us on a journey through the tumultuous events of the 1991 Soviet coup attempt, as experienced from the streets of the Baltic States.

    As the coup unfolds, Timo finds himself in Lithuania, planning to covertly visit the closed city of Kaliningrad. He shares the tension sharing a dining table with a Soviet officer, unknowingly on the eve of the coup.

    As the coup escalates, Timo's narrative becomes a vivid street-level account of the Estonian people's defiance. He describes the formation of human walls against Soviet tanks, the strategic significance of the TV tower, and the Estonians' ingenious methods of maintaining communication despite Russian interference.

    Timo's reflections on the morality of his curiosity, the fear of violence, and the spirit of resistance that pervaded Estonia during those critical hours are a testament to the resilience of a nation on the brink of reclaiming its freedom.

    Timo’s book “Tanks & Roaches” is only currently available in Finnish, Estonian and Slovak and can be purchased on the links here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode334/

    • Timo can be contacted at timlaine@gmail.com

    

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

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    00:00 Introduction

    01:38 Timo’s summer in Estonia during the Cold War

    09:52 The 1991 Soviet Coup and its impact on Estonia

    20:34 Tom joins a demonstration

    29:47 The confrontation between Estonian and Russian troops near the occupied TV tower

    40:36 Estonians switched off the TV signal to calm down the Russians

    41:57 The bravery of the four Estonian men who were locked inside the tv tower during the Soviet invasion


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    Borderlands and Battles: A Finnish Town's Cold War Story (333) Feb 24, 2024

    Timo takes us to the remote Finnish border town of Kuusamo. He paints a vivid picture of a childhood overshadowed by his grandparent’s memories of their home lost during World War II and their proximity to the Soviet Union.

    As a child, he was fascinated by the invisible line that marked the end of the world— the heavily guarded border with the USSR. Timo recounts a tense encounter with border guards while visiting his grandparents, and his meeting with a Soviet escaper.

    He travels to Moscow and Eastern Europe as a young man which further fuels his curiosity about life on the other side of the Iron Curtain. Timo recalls the austere streets of Prague to the bureaucratic maze in Budapest and a harrowing night at the Romanian border.

    Timo’s book “Tanks & Roaches” is only currently available in Finnish, Estonian and Slovak but can be purchased via our episode extras page here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode333/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    00:00 Intro

    01:26 Timo's early life

    04:41 Timo's grandparents' experiences of World War II

    08:59 Incidents of people coming over the border

    08:56 Estonian man's escape

    28:32 Timo's trip to Moscow with his father in 1977

    32:03 Finns remaining in areas handed over to the Soviet Union

    39:34 Visits to Prague, Hungary and Romania

    41:34 First Impressions of Prague

    43:18 The challenges of Hungarian visitor registration

    45:49 Trouble getting into Romania from Hungary

    54:37 Polish smugglers on the train

    59:04 Timo's fascination with Estonia.

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    Australian Cold War Maritime Air Patrols (332) Feb 17, 2024

    Leigh joined the RAAF in 1978 to train as a pilot but was scrubbed after a few months and transitioned to training as an Air Electronics Officer (AEO) at the RAAF School of Air Navigation.

    He flew on the P-3C Orion and was employed in operations across the Indo-Pacific region on maritime patrol surveillance operations in the region - which included both usual surface surveillance of the region and operations alongside the US against Soviet submarines transiting the area.

    He also had the opportunity to track Soviet SSBNs in the NE Pacific operating with the US Navy.

    He details many incidents during his career including an “archaeological” mission, accidentally causing a diplomatic incident, as well as monitoring the splash-down and recovery of re-entry vehicles used to test the heat tiles for the Soviet Buran space shuttle.

    I’m delighted to welcome Leigh Collins to our Cold War Conversation.

    Episode extras including book recommendations, videos and photos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode332/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    00:00 Intro

    01:49 Early interest in aviation and the military

    02:47 Aspirations in the RAAF

    04:08 Failure as a pilot

    06:43 Length of Orion missions

    09:05 Soviet naval activity around Australia in the 1980s

    16:52 RAF 617 Squadron held their annual reunion in Australia

    20:42 Use of GPS on the Orion

    24:23 Use of astral navigation using a Sextant

    27:59 Viewing the cockpit of the Vulcan

    31:10 Monitoring a Russian diesel submarine

    33:13 Soviet trawlers during exercises

    34:23 Exercise Silent Pearl

    43:49 Soviet Buran Space shuttle test bed recoveries

    52:52 Incident just out of Darwin where the crew ditched

    56:50 Operation Gateway, Australia's long-standing anti-piracy operation

    01:03:39 Threat of China during the cold war

    01:07:53 September 1993 deployment as a submarine observer

    01:12:23 Leigh worked with Sue Boyd from episode 151

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    A traumatic childhood journey from Cold War Poland to the United States (331) Feb 10, 2024

    In this deeply personal episode, our guest, Norbert, vividly recounts his traumatic childhood journey from Cold War Poland to the United States.

    With vivid recollections, he describes the struggles of his parents amid food shortages and the poignant decision of the family to leave everything behind for an uncertain future in the United States.

    We also explore the cultural shock and the struggle to find identity in a new world, as Norbert navigates life as a Polish immigrant in 1980s America. From his first bewildering day at an American school to his father's relentless work ethic in pursuit of the American dream, we witness the sacrifices and choices that shape an immigrant's life.

    Norbert's narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the Cold War, where his family's German heritage in Poland subjected them to suspicion and prejudice. Our episode starts with his Grandfather’s story in World War 2.

    Photos and video extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode331/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Planning for a Hot War in the Cold War (330) Feb 03, 2024

    Dan served in the War Plans office of the US Army VII Corps working on counterattack plans and reorganization of the US Army’s General Defence Plan.

    He describes the debriefing of a Polish Special Forces operator who had defected to the West and who revealed surprising knowledge of US plans and order of battle.

    Dan also details his experiences on the Able Archer 83 exercise and his views about how dangerous that was.

    In addition to his work in the War Plans office, we discuss terror attacks on the US Army in West Germany including the bombing of the LaBelle disco in West Berlin where 2 US soldiers and one Turkish woman were killed and 79 wounded.

    The terrorist threat to US Forces was significant and this is highlighted by the attempted assassination of General Kroesen commander of United States Army Europe by the Red Army Faction aka The Baader-Meinhof Group. Dan describes his own experiences in the immediate aftermath of the attack., including the issuing of live ammunition to US Forces in the field.

    Extra info here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode330/

    0:00 Introduction

    1:32 Dan's Insights in the War Plans Office

    10:29 The defector's shocking intel on US plans

    18:13 Reflections on Able Archer 83

    24:33 Terrorism and the attack on the La Belle disco

    33:21 Red Army Faction attempted assassination of General Kroesen

    42:20 The impact of these events on US forces

    58:41 Dan's views on the sudden changes in Eastern Europe

    1:13:38 Podcast extras, appreciation for financial supporters, and closing remarks

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    The Picnic That Ripped Open The Iron Curtain (329) Jan 27, 2024

    In August 1989, a group of Hungarian activists did the unthinkable: they entered the forbidden militarised zone of the Iron Curtain - and held a picnic.

    Word had spread of what was going to happen. On wisps of rumour, thousands of East German 'holiday-makers' had made their way to the border between Hungary and Austria, awaiting an opportunity, fearing prison, surveilled by lurking Stasi agents.

    The stage was set for the greatest border breach in Cold War history: that day hundreds would cross from the Communist East to the longed-for freedom of the West. The fall of the Berlin Wall, the end of the Soviet Union - the so-called end of history - all would flow from those dramatic hours.

    Drawing on dozens of original interviews with those involved - activists and border guards, escapees and secret police, as well as the last Communist prime minister of Hungary Matthew Longo's book "The Picnic - An Escape to Freedom and the Collapse of the Iron Curtain" reconstructs this world-shaping event and its tumultuous aftermath.

    Freedom had been won but parents had been abandoned and families divided. Love affairs faltered and new lives had to be built from scratch.

    The Picnic is the story of a moment when the tide of history turned. It shows how freedom can be both a dream and disillusionment and how all we take for granted can vanish instantly...

    Book giveaway info here https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway/

    Buy the book and support the podcast here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781847927798

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    0:00 Introduction to the episode by Ian Sanders

    4:47 Discussion on the political situation in Hungary in the late 80s

    13:11 Gorbachev's view on Hungary's reforms and changes

    23:26 Reaction of Hungarian hardliners to Imre Nagy's reburial

    29:41 The tense atmosphere at the Warsaw pact meeting in Bucharest

    37:49 The origin of the idea for a European picnic at the border

    48:02 The impact on the Berlin Wall

    57:23 The fatal shooting of Werner Schultz

    1:00:38 The rapid changes that followed the opening of the border

    1:07:42 Victor Orban's reimagining of history

    1:11:53 Conclusion and promotion of Matthew Longo's book, The Picnic

    1:12:33 Acknowledgements and closing remarks

    Chapters powered by PodcastAI✨

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    US Army Anti-Aircraft Missile Battery Command in Cold War West Germany (228) Jan 20, 2024

    Dan served as a lieutenant and captain in a US Army air defence artillery battalion in West Germany from 1980 until 1985.

    He describes details of Soviet overflights deep into West Germany and we discuss how the Warsaw Pact attempted to track their units.

    Now who knew that the US Army experimented with geese for perimeter security?! Dan reveals details of this little-known specialist unit.

    Dan worked with the improved Hawk anti-aircraft missile system. We talk about its capabilities, the challenges of working with 1980s electronics, its deployment and exercises. He describes a live firing exercise where an errant missile almost wiped out a group of VIPS.

    Don’t miss part 2 in a couple of weeks where Dan describes his experiences in the war plans office of the general staff.

    Do make sure you check out the episode extras at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode328/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod


    0:00 Introduction and background of Dan

    1:32 The Improved Hawk missile system and its capabilities

    10:29 Deployment to field locations and the challenges faced

    18:13 Encounters with Soviet aircraft and military liaison missions

    24:33 The innovative use of intruder geese for security

    33:21 Live firing exercises and the dangers involved

    42:20 The deactivation of an air defence unit and its implications

    58:41 Reflections on service

    1:13:38 Podcast extras, appreciation for financial supporters, and closing remarks

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    Britain's first Cold War Nuclear Attack Warning Station at Jodrell Bank (327) Jan 13, 2024

    The Jodrell Bank observatory in Cheshire in the UK played a significant secret role during the Cold War. It was established in 1945 by Bernard Lovell, a radio astronomer at the university, to investigate cosmic rays after his work on radar in the Second World War.

    We hear some intriguing details of the site’s Cold War roles including being Britain’s first nuclear attack early warning station and its signals intelligence collaboration with GCHQ, the UK’s Government Communications Headquarters.

    Even more surprisingly it’s also revealed how Soviet Scientists also worked at the site and that the Soviets attempted to get Bernard Lovell to defect during a visit to the Soviet Union.

    I’m given a tour of the non-public areas by Tim O'Brien who is a Professor of Astrophysics.

    Do make sure you check out the extensive photos I took at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode327/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

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    0:00 Introduction to the podcast

    1:00 Jodrell Bank Observatory's role in the Cold War and its establishment

    10:08 The birth and evolution of radio astronomy

    15:50 The construction and purpose of the world's biggest radio telescope

    32:46 The telescope's role during the Cuban missile crisis and its implications

    51:05 The mission of GCHQ at Jodrell Bank and intercepting signals from the Soviet Union

    1:04:21 Touring the secret tunnel and discussing its potential uses

    1:14:51 Recounting the Soviet Luna 15 mission during the American moon landing and the role of Jodrell Bank

    1:29:18 Episode extras and thanking financial supporters

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    The East German Tank Commander (326) Jan 06, 2024

    In the mid-1980s Dag was a T72 tank commander in the NVA, the East German Army and is now a volunteer at the Tank Museum at Bovington in

    the UK.

    He describes his initial tank commander training, the battle readiness of the NVA, and the challenges of a conscript army as well as a startling revelation about a significant change in doctrine in 1987.

    We also dig deep into the technical details of the T72, including the autoloader, deep water wading, radio communication and its advantages and disadvantages versus NATO tanks.

    Dag also talks about how Soviet WW2 learnings were applied into the NVA, and his regiment’s role and deployment area in the event of war.

    Dag shares a frank view and great insight into life in the NVA as a tank commander and the challenges of life beyond the NVA as the Wall opens and all he has known disappears.

    Make sure you check out the videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode326/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    0:00 Introduction

    10:29 Briefing on NATO armour and perception of NATO as the enemy

    18:13 Planning for potential conflict and readiness in the NVA

    24:33 Understanding the roles and challenges in a conscript army

    33:21 Performance and operational details of the T72 tank

    42:20 Training, battlefield strategies and preparations

    58:41 East German-Soviet relations and Warsaw Pact exercises

    1:13:38 Reflections on service in the NVA and potential conflict with NATO

    1:23:59 Reaction to the opening of the Berlin Wall and post-service encounters

    1:27:34 Life post-unification: Expectations, reality and personal growth

    1:31:28 Podcast extras, appreciation for financial supporters and closing remarks

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    Twilight of the Soviet Union – Memoirs of a British Journalist in Moscow (325) Dec 30, 2023

    Kate is sent to Moscow in 1985 to write articles for The Morning Star, a left-wing British daily newspaper founded in 1930 as the Daily Worker by the Communist Party of Great Britain. She lives in a block of flats alongside Soviet citizens and enrols her 3 children in Soviet schools.

    Three weeks after Kate arrives Mikhail Gorbachev comes to power and she finds herself having to cover the disorientating number of rapid reforms and attacks on the Soviet system by its leadership for a newspaper, that had always supported the Soviet Union.

    Kate is fluent in Russian, speaks with Soviet citizens on the bus or at the shops, and visits every Soviet republic bar one of the then-largest countries on Earth. In 1986 she reported on the Chernobyl disaster and was one of the first journalists to arrive in the area.

    Buy the book here https://www.bannisterpublications.com/product-page/twilight-of-the-soviet-union

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    0:00 Introduction and background of Kate Clark

    1:32 Journey to becoming a Moscow correspondent and life in Soviet Union

    11:09 Placing Ket's children in Soviet schools and their adaptation

    15:10 Bureaucratic challenges

    18:08 Shopping habits and emergence of supermarkets in Soviet Union

    21:00 Impact of Mikhail Gorbachev's leadership and his policies

    33:34 Cultural accessibility, promotion and diversity in the Soviet Union

    44:36 Covering the Chernobyl disaster and its aftermath

    57:17 Relations with the British embassy and dealings with Soviet security services

    1:04:47 Visit to Afghanistan and reflections on its political challenges

    1:09:31 Reflections on the collapse of the Soviet Union and the role of Yeltsin

    1:15:30 Kate's book, "Twilight of the Soviet Union", and closing remarks

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    Further Cold War Tank Tales from the Land Down Under (324) Dec 23, 2023

    Tim participates in Kangaroo 89, a huge military exercise with the entire Australian Army using an area the size of Western Europe and we hear about the Australian equivalent of Wolfgang the Bratty Man who used to turn up on British exercises in Germany.

    Tim was also part of an exchange program with the British Army and he describes his experiences there and the advantages and disadvantages between Leopard 1 and the British Challenger 1 tank

    Tim also worked with the Bundeswehr where he had a fascinating encounter with a former East German tank commander. This is part two of my chat with Tim., Part one is episode 321 here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode321/


    Photos, videos and extra episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode324/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    0:00 Introduction

    1:03 Kangaroo 89: Large-scale military exercise and logistical challenges

    9:37 Leopard 1 vs Challenger 1: A comparison and discussion of their advantages

    20:26 Evaluation of Russian/Chinese armoured vehicles and Soviet tanks

    22:45 Discussion about the arms industry and British involvement in upgrading Iraqi tanks

    28:28 Life in the field: Food, rations, and interaction with the local population

    34:11 Night fighting capability of Leopard AS1 and limitations of infrared technology

    39:24 Cold War tactics and concerns about signals intelligence

    45:02 Exchange with the Bundeswehr and bonding with an ex-NVA senior NCO

    51:59 Cold War-themed films recommendations and Australian contribution during the Cold War

    54:02 Importance of individual Cold War stories and episode extras

    55:00 Closing remarks and invitation to join the Facebook discussion group

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    How To Catch A Cold War Spy (323) Dec 16, 2023

    Since 1985, Ana Montes has been an asset of the Cuban intelligence service. In that time, she’s risen through the ranks to become one of the Pentagon’s most respected voices on Cuban affairs with easy access to classified documents.

    Peter Lapp reveals Montez's tradecraft and how the FBI found the proverbial "needle in a haystack".

    To learn more about the woman labelled "one of the most damaging spies in U.S. history" by America's top counter-intelligence official listen to episode 277.

    Buy the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781915603326

    Extra Photos and videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode323

    Enter the book giveaway here https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    0:00 Introduction to Anna Montez and her role in the Cuban Intelligence Service

    7:48 The process of identifying a spy within the US intelligence community

    16:43 Introduction of Scott Carmichael and his role in the investigation

    28:34 The potential involvement of Anna Montez's family in espionage

    34:51 A mistake and the realities of surveillance

    41:00 The importance of the Toshiba computer in Anna's arrest

    52:22 Arrest of Ana Montez

    56:18 The process of reaching an agreement with Ana Montez

    1:03:16 Public perception and recognition of Ana Montez post-arrest

    1:04:11 Introduction of the book giveaway

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    Cold War, Warm Hearts - Hitchhiking behind the 1960s Iron Curtain (322) Dec 09, 2023

    In 1966 most of Bridget’s friends, in their early twenties, were settling down with jobs and/or husbands…

    She, on the other hand, set off alone to travel across Poland relying on the kindness of strangers. Fascinated by what she experienced she continued to wander the highways and byways of, Hungary Czechoslovakia, Romania, Bulgaria and Yugoslavia for the next couple of years seeking out remote rural communities almost untouched by the passage of time...

    Bridget travelled with virtually no money, however, this was not a problem but an opportunity: it enabled a rare and deep insight into the lives and experiences of ‘ordinary’ people in these Warsaw Pact countries.

    We hear how she stumbles across remote German minorities, gets arrested by border guards and finds love in a youth hostel in Munich.

    Buy the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781915603326

    Extra Photos and videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode352/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    0:00 Introduction to the episode

    3:06 Bridget's journey and adventures in Poland

    12:18 Bridget's job in Germany and exploration of the iron curtain

    15:56 Bridget's smuggling adventure in Slovakia and visit to Hungary

    26:02 Bridget's journey to Yugoslavia and her experiences there

    32:04 Socio-economic situation and life experiences in Slovakia

    34:36 Encounter with West German border guards

    37:16 Meeting Bill in Munich and travelling to Romania

    43:30 Journey to Bulgaria and experiences there

    48:34 Using travel diaries to write "Cold War, Warm Hearts"

    53:01 Acknowledging financial supporters and engaging with listeners on Facebook

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    Cold War Tank Tales from the Land Down Under (321) Dec 02, 2023

    Many of Tim’s family had served in WW1 and WW2 and from a young age, he was determined to follow their path.

    Overcoming huge competition for places he became a driver of the Leopard AS1 MBT at 1st Armoured Regiment of the Australian Army.

    Australia is largely ignored in most Cold War histories, however, we hear how the Australian Army prepared to fight the Musorians, a thinly disguised notional enemy which was obviously the Soviets or one of their satellites in everything but name.

    Photos, videos and extra episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode321/

    Part two of our chat is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode324/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    0:00 Introduction and Tim Whitford's early life and influences

    7:48 Tim's involvement in the reserves and training details

    12:16 Transition to the regular army and experience with basic training

    19:41 First encounter with the Leopard tank and training experience

    28:42 Comparison of Leopard and Centurion tanks

    33:57 Posting to the 1st Armored Regiment and first deployment

    43:41 NBC training and river forwarding capabilities of Leopard tanks

    51:30 Reaction to the fall of the Berlin Wall and shift in military roles

    55:09 Preview of Part 2 and recognizing financial supporters

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    Jack's dramatic Cold War escape across the fortified Inner German border (320) Nov 25, 2023

    Jack Wesolek was born in East Germany in 1966. His grandfather was a member of the Red Orchestra, a Communist Anti-Nazi resistance organisation in Germany during World War 2. He later became Chief of the Signals Service of the Volksmarine, the East German Navy. In the 1980s an East German Army signals regiment was named after him.

    Jack’s father was an actor and we discuss how accurate the depiction of East German actors is in the film “The Lives of Others”.

    At age 6 his parents divorce and Jack stays with his father and grandmother in Rostock where he learns more about his grandfather’s story, however, he is separated from his brother who goes to live with his mother.

    Jack has an Uncle who was captured escaping from East Germany and was bought out by West Germany in the 1970s. At a clandestine meeting in Hungary they hatch a daring plan for Jack to escape across the Inner German Border, the fortified frontier between East and West Germany.

    Photos, videos and extra episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode320/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    0:00 Introduction and background of Jack Wesolek

    3:19 Recollections of his father's actor friends

    5:20 Jack's views on artistic freedom and family's political climate in East Germany

    18:12 Life with grandmother and school experiences

    32:20 Military training as part of school curriculum

    37:48 Relatives in West Germany and uncle's imprisonment for attempted escape

    41:12 Planning and preparation for escape to West Germany

    1:00:43 The escape and crossing the border

    1:04:33 First moments of freedom and reflections on life in East Germany

    1:07:10 Registering as a refugee and first contact with family in East Germany post-escape

    1:14:04 Stasi's interrogation and impact of Jack's escape on his family

    1:20:36 Episode extras and closing remarks

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    How President Kennedy's assassination almost started World War 3 (319) Nov 22, 2023

    On 23rd Nov 1963 at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea a detachment of US Air Force B-57 Canberra bombers were parked on an alert pad each with a live nuclear weapon in their bomb bay and ready to fly at a moment’s notice.

    At 0400 klaxon horns aroused the crews from their slumber and they rushed to their waiting aircraft, for what they likely thought was just one more drill

    But this morning was different.

    As the crew strapped themselves into their cockpits, they were told to await a signal to fly their war mission…

    With targets in North Korea, China, and the Soviet Far East, the aircrews instinctively knew they would be flying one-way missions. But they had no idea as to why they were facing potential oblivion.

    I talk with US Marine Veteran John F. Davies who has researched the little-known story of the military response to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

    Extra episode info including videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode319/

    Do you have any further information about this episode, contact John via email at JFD3vet "at"protonmail.com

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod


    0:00 Introduction and background

    1:34 John Davies' military service and reaction to JFK's assassination

    6:38 Initial military reaction to JFK's assassination and subsequent actions

    11:18 Events unfolding in Washington post JFK's assassination and transition of command authority

    16:13 Dean Rusk's and Admiral Harry D. Felt's response to JFK's assassination

    20:45 The military response in Europe and Strategic Air Command situation

    26:21 Exceptions in the military response - Fort Bliss, Texas and Cuba

    31:46 President Johnson's return to Washington and easing of crisis atmosphere

    34:09 Changes in command and control post November '63 and handling of information

    43:41 Reflections on the importance of telling this story and predictions on Kennedy's continued presidency

    46:29 Acknowledgement of financial supporters and Facebook discussion group

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    The lazy schoolboy who became a Cold War Vulcan nuclear bomber pilot (318) Nov 18, 2023

    Kevin was born in Wigan in North West England and joined the RAF as an apprentice in 1956 with only 3 O Levels. He came top of his course but was posted into supplies at RAF St Mawgan. However, he quickly became in charge of their clothing stores and via a fortuitous route became a trainee pilot.

    By May 1963 he joined the RAF V Force as a Vulcan pilot and served with 44 Squadron where Vulcan crews were being converted to low-level flying.

    He describes the challenges of low-level flying, Vulcan handling, and the immense power of the Vulcan’s engines and training in Canada.

    We also hear about the different methods of nuclear bomb release, what it was like to be on Quick Reaction Alert, and his targets in the Soviet Union.

    Kevin also flew a number of the Queen’s birthday flights up the Mall and describes a near collision on one of these events in cloud.

    He also remembers some of his colleagues who never came back from missions.

    Extra episode information including videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode318/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    0:00 Introduction and Background of Kevin

    3:35 Kevin's Journey from Corporal Supplier to Vulcan Pilot

    9:49 Kevin's Experiences and Training as a Vulcan pilot

    18:20 Low-Level Flying, and Navigating

    23:43 Quick Reaction Alerts and Nuclear Bomb Release

    29:57 Post-Bomb Release Plans and Popular Media Depictions

    33:22 Incidents, Implications, and Personal Views on nuclear Weapons

    37:33 Responsibility of a Vulcan's Crew and recalling past incidents

    39:17 Kevin's experience with Other V Bombers and survival training

    42:06 Kevin's participation in Bombing Competitions and Closing Remarks

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    Across the Iron Curtain in a yellow MG Midget sports car (317) Nov 11, 2023

    Andrew McNeile decided to travel through Eastern Europe in a yellow MG Midget Sports car, a ​car ​that's ​going ​to ​stand ​out ​no ​matter ​where you are!

    He recalls his adventures travelling through East Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, Romania, and Yugoslavia

    He talks about the warmth and friendliness of people, challenges with petrol quality, and an accidental visit to a nudist beach.

    Peter Ryan is your host today and I’m delighted to welcome Andrew McNeile to our Cold War Conversation…

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    Episode cover photo by kind permission of Oxyman https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MG_Midget_Orange_S.jpg

    0:00 Introduction and overview of the episode's guest, Andrew Nielle

    0:31 Andrew's journey through Eastern Europe in a yellow MG midget sports car

    4:21 Reaction of Andrew's family and friends to his travel plans

    7:13 Planned itinerary for the journey through Eastern Europe and Turkey

    10:01 Describing the border crossing experience into the East Bloc from Germany

    16:05 Reflections on the separation between East and West Germany and the construction of the Berlin Wall

    24:25 Unexpected nudist beach experience in Romania

    28:12 The challenges of travelling by car in Eastern Europe

    32:19 Favourite country visited during the road trip: Czechoslovakia

    35:57 Relief of returning to the West and impressions on Soviet rule

    37:11 Closing remarks

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    1983 - the year the Cold War almost turned hot (316) Nov 04, 2023

    This week is the 40th anniversary of the Able Archer NATO Exercise where it is reckoned that the Soviet Union and NATO almost started a nuclear war.

    1990 an investigation by the US President’s Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board, culminating in its highly secret report “The Soviet ‘War Scare’” The detailed PFIAB report concluded that the U.S. “may have inadvertently placed our relations with the Soviet Union on a hair trigger”.

    The following is an audio version of the talk I delivered to the Manchester Military History Society in October 2023.

    Documents, videos, and other extra episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode316

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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/

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    0:00 Introduction and overview of the episode

    1:14 Comparison of the 1983 crisis and the Cuban missile crisis

    2:38 Detente and the state of US/Soviet relations in the 1970s & early 80s

    4:24 Introduction Ronald Reagan and his policies

    5:25 Introduction to Yuri Andropov and his policies

    8:56 Soviet intelligence Operation Ryan's purpose and indicators

    12:49 Fleetex 83 US naval exercise appears to confirm Soviet suspicions that US is planning an attack

    16:33 The downing of Korean Airlines Flight 007

    22:30 Incidents soon after the Korean Airlines shootdown

    26:08 Soviet early warning system warns of US missile attack

    30:06 The US military intervention in Grenada

    34:21 Brigadier General Leonard H Perroot's role in averting a nuclear war during Able Archer 83

    41:43 Double agent's contributions to Western intelligence

    51:26 Controversy about how close we came to nuclear war around Able Archer

    54:30 Acknowledgement of financial supporters and continuation of Cold War conversation on Facebook

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    Serving in a Cold War Danish Reconnaissance Squadron (315) Oct 27, 2023

    Denmark joined NATO as a founding member in 1949. However, it originally laid down limitations to NATO membership, effectively excluding the country from full military integration. The conditions were threefold: no non-Danish bases, no nuclear warheads, and no Allied military activity on Danish territory.

    Bo Hermansen served in a conscript reconnaissance platoon of the Danish Jutland Dragoon Regiment during the 1980s. His squadron was part of the divisional reconnaissance for the Danish Jutland division which was tasked to move into the north of West Germany and link up with West German units to stop a Warsaw Pact advance into Jutland.

    Bo describes Denmark’s political stance during this period where the election of President Reagan in the US and his policies regarding defence caused some concern in Denmark and elsewhere in Europe. We hear of his unit’s tactics against the Warsaw Pact, the exercises he participated in, the rivalry between units, and why a Danish tank was painted pink!

    It’s a fascinating view into the organisation and tactics of one of the lesser-known members of NATO.

    Extra episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode315

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    0:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Bo Hermansen

    7:31 Bo's decision to join the military and family reactions

    12:33 Training, challenges, and transition to a professional soldier

    19:46 Role and composition of the 5th Battalion of the Jutland Dragoon Regiment

    28:42 Preparations for war: Major exercises and deployment practice

    35:16 Relations with the Germans and other international troops during the Cold War

    43:45 Importance of history and ethos in the Jutland Dragoons

    51:32 Transition to green and black paint for Danish vehicles: Controversies and anecdotes

    1:00:09 Escape and survival training in the Danish Army

    1:08:06 Dedication to Bo's platoon and episode extras

    1:08:33 Closing remarks

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    The Cold War Atomic Spies (314) Oct 20, 2023

    On 29 August 1949 at 7:00 a.m. the Soviet Union exploded its first atomic bomb.

    The test stunned the Western powers. American intelligence had estimated that the Soviets would not produce an atomic weapon until 1953, while the British did not expect it until 1954.

    The speed at which the Soviet Union developed their bomb was due a network of spies from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada who gave the Soviet Union the necessary information to develop an atomic bomb

    They were motivated by a range of factors. Some, such as ideology or a belief in communism, were committed to advancing the interests of the Soviet Union. Others were motivated by financial gain, while some may have been coerced or blackmailed into spying.

    I speak with author Andrew Long who has written “Secrets of the Cold War – espionage and intelligence operations from both sides of the Iron Curtain” which covers this story and many others.

    Buy the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781526790255

    Book Giveaway info here https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway/

    Extra episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode314/

    Other episodes

    Interview with a KGB agent trained by two of the Atomic Spies https://coldwarconversations.com/episode140/

    The Portland Spies https://coldwarconversations.com/episode138/ & https://coldwarconversations.com/episode139/

    Ottawa Soviet defector Igor Gouzenko https://coldwarconversations.com/episode194/

    Ethen Rosenberg https://coldwarconversations.com/episode184/

    Guy Burgess & The Cambridge 5 https://coldwarconversations.com/episode148

    Kim Philby’s granddaughter recollections https://coldwarconversations.com/episode228/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

    0:00 Introduction to the podcast and the topic of the Soviet Union's first atomic bomb

    1:13 The history of atomic physics and the conceptualization of the atomic bomb

    6:34 Collaboration between the US and the UK on the atomic bomb project and its aftermath

    11:24 Espionage and the role of spies in the Soviet Union's acquisition of atomic technology

    20:50 The Cambridge Five and how Cairncross broke the story to the Soviets about the atomic bomb project

    33:33 The contribution of Ted Hall and George Koval to Soviet Intelligence

    38:27 British spy Klaus Fuchs's role at Los Alamos and his ideological motivations

    51:49 Fuchs's contribution to the Los Alamos setup and the plutonium bomb

    59:12 Post-war movements of the atomic spies and the unraveling of the Soviet Spy network

    1:10:02 The arrest and conviction of Klaus Fuchs and the Rosenberg case

    1:15:29 The fate of the spies and the impact of atomic espionage on the Cold War and global power dynamics

    1:25:14 Introduction to Andrew's book and closing remarks

    1:26:20 Podcast outro and acknowledgments

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    Spying on NATO from a Cold War East German Army radio monitoring base Part 2 (313) Oct 13, 2023

    This is the second part of my chat with Thomas who worked in a secret East German radio monitoring base.

    He describes how a BRIXMIS or another Allied Military Liason Mission vehicle had once got into the base and what the East German Army was told about MLM capabilities.

    When the officers aren’t around he and his comrades listen to Western radio and watch Western TV.

    Gorbachev is now in power and liberalisation has now started in the Soviet Union and the East German government worries about contamination. Thomas describes his participation in the Dresden protests and is totally ​shocked ​by ​police brutality against East German citizens.

    We talk about the opening of the Wall and the decline in NVA discipline as East Germany starts to implode in the march to reunification. We also hear about the surprising contents of his Stasi file.

    Extra episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode313/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    0:00 Introduction

    1:21 Thomas's Stasi file and military liaison mission experiences

    11:30 Perception of NATO and potential for invasion

    18:06 Exposure to Western media and culture

    22:39 Unrest and start of the rebellion in East Germany

    34:20 Closure of the Czech border

    49:04 Shared experiences with American and Czech soldiers

    55:38 Recollection of the day the Berlin Wall came down

    1:02:55 First experience visiting the West and adapting to Western lifestyle

    1:12:27 Transitioning back to civilian life and the reunification of Germany

    1:27:13 Joining the Cold War Conversations Facebook discussion group

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    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Spying on NATO from a Cold War East German Army radio monitoring base Part 1 (312) Oct 06, 2023

    Born in 1968 in East Germany Thomas had a "normal socialist" but happy childhood in a small town near Dresden. His family was viewed as exotic at that time as his mother had Hungarian citizenship which allowed her to travel to West Berlin.

    He was conscripted into the East German Army and signed up for 3 years as an Unteroffizier (NCO) instead of one and a half years of compulsory service.

    After training he is posted to a radio reconnaissance battalion based on the top of a mountain in the middle of nowhere near the inner German border. The unit was tasked with monitoring NATO surface-to-air missile batteries such as Patriots, and Nike Hercules, tracking NATO air traffic in Western Europe, and listening to air-to-ground transmissions.

    Thomas describes the isolated life on the mountain and harsh winters with lots of snow. The base was protected with a high-voltage double fence and sentries. With good visibility, Thomas could see the enemy on a similar mountaintop monitoring station on the other side of the border.

    Extra episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode312/

    0:00 Introduction and background of Thomas

    7:21 Thomas' schooling and impact of politics on education

    16:23 Thomas's decision to join the army and experiences in Hungary

    24:21 Living close to West Berlin and parents' experiences in West Germany

    32:35 Experiences at the border and considering escape from East Germany

    38:16 Thomas' drafting into the East German army

    44:47 The drafting process and training in East Germany

    50:42 Life at the outpost and working with the Czech Army

    1:01:41 Social life, restrictions, and interactions with locals

    1:09:15 The struggle to access Western media and relationship with officers

    1:13:15 Acknowledgement of financial supporters

    1:13:33 Closing remarks and teaser for next week's episode

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    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    Cold War US Army tank gunner serves with a Bundeswehr Panzer unit (311) Sep 29, 2023

    Mark joined the US Army on January 6th, 1981, and went to Ft Knox KY for Basic and Armor training. He graduated in April 1981 and was selected as Instructor Tank commander and trained the next cycle of recruits till August 1981.

    Mark was posted to West Germany in September 1981 and was assigned to 1st 37th Armor 1st Armored Div based in Katterbach. When he arrived they were just turning in their M60A2s for the M60A3s. Mark was made a gunner on C-22 as an E-2 private which is rare.

    He was also picked to serve with a 1st 304th Bundeswehr PZ unit in Leopard 1A4s in 1982 and describes some fascinating details of the differences between the Bundeswehr and the US Army.

    In 1982 his friend Dean McCoy was killed in a military accident and Mark experienced PTSD for the last 30 years as a result. We dedicate this episode to the memory of Sammy Dean McCoy who died on March 18th 1982 aged 21.

    0:00 Introduction and Background of Mark

    3:11 Mark's experiences in West Germany

    9:59 Life expectations and preparations in case of a Soviet Invasion

    14:44 Comparison Between Leopard and M60 A3 Tanks, and German and American Tank Training

    20:18 Interactions with other national armies and demonstrations of West German firepower

    25:36 Escape, Evasion, and Gunnery training

    30:42 Naming of tanks and preparation for chemical Warfare

    36:24 Differences between Army Life in West Germany and Fort Knox

    39:15 Memorable and tragic incidents during service in West Germany

    47:34 Discussion on the Book "Red Army" by Ralph Peters and Mark's PTSD

    54:12 Podcast Closing Remarks

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    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    Uncovering Cold War Soviet secrets with the USAF and NSA (310) Sep 22, 2023

    Tim served in the USAF and the NSA from 1975 to 1988 during some of the most tense periods of the Cold War.

    This included stints at the US Air Force Electronic Warfare Center at Kelly AFB, Texas, and RAF Chicksands, in the UK working on SIGINT collection of USSR/Warsaw Pact/Other targets.

    He also served as part of the Cryptologic Support Group, Strategic Air Command HQ, Offutt AFB, Nebraska providing SIGINT briefings to SAC leadership on worldwide events

    In 1983 he transferred to the NSA and later GCHQ, Cheltenham, Glos 1984-1988.

    We hear about how the first indications that something was amiss the morning Chernobyl reactor exploded in 1986, the day the cleaners answered the secure phone at SAC HQ, and how at GCHQ the US and British intelligence share information as part of the UKUSA Agreement.

    0:00 Introduction and Tim's background in the US Air Force

    5:12 Understanding electronic warfare and data gathering at Kelly Air Force Base

    16:58 Posting at RAF Chicksands in Bedford, UK, and monitoring for changes in regular patterns

    25:52 The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the Iranian hostage crisis

    36:19 Able Archer alerts and other instances of signals intelligence at Strategic Air Command, Nebraska

    44:16 Incident of the KAL007 Korean airliner and US Navy exercise incidents

    57:08 Misinterpretation during a briefing on a recon flight of TU-95 bear bombers and gathering intel on the Soviet Union

    1:01:18 Constant pressure to provide intel on Soviet leadership and missile alerts during Soviet drills

    1:05:34 Transition from Air Force to NSA and role at the NSA

    1:14:08 Tracking Chinese air defense and transition to GCHQ

    1:22:08 U.S. stance during the Falkland conflict and witnessing the Chernobyl reactor explosion

    1:30:59 Anecdote about NSA bureaucracy and language proficiency test

    1:34:21 Closing and thanks to supporters

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    Extra episode info here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode310/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    Thanks to listener Phil Curme for introducing me to Tim. You can read his blog here walkingthebattlefields.com

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    REME Keeping the British Army on the road during the Cold War (309) Sep 15, 2023

    Aged 16 Chris joined the British Army apprentice school in Arborfield, at Princess Marina College. He was trained as a vehicle mechanic in the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers otherwise known as REME.

    We talk about life expectancy in war scenarios, experiences with crash-out exercises, and life as a British soldier in West Germany

    Chris also served Post-Wall Berlin with the Military Police and describes an interesting “secret” job he was involved in.

    The episode was recorded at one of the Hack Green Nuclear Bunker Living History Weekends where Chris is one of the re-enactors. His advice has proved valuable to the other re-enactors as he is someone who was there…

    It’s a great down-to-earth account of a sometimes forgotten part of the British Army, without whose support they wouldn’t have been able to operate.

    0:00 Introduction and Chris's early life and decision to join the British army

    3:05 Life expectancy in war scenarios and crash out exercises

    4:40 Casualties on exercises and in training

    9:25 Encounters with Soviet military liaison units and inspections by the Warsaw Pact

    13:59 Living with the constant threat of conflict and its mental toll

    15:53 De-escalation of tensions and the opening of the Berlin Wall

    19:45 Life in Berlin post-Wall

    20:31 Best aspects of serving in the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR)

    23:57 Differences between the RAF and the Army

    26:03 Closing remarks

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    Extra episode info here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode309/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    Gunfire in the Woods: A foiled escape and imprisonment in Cold War East Germany (308) Sep 08, 2023

    This is part two of Henrik’s story. You can hear the first part in episode 307. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode307

    It’s the late 1980s and Henrik and his friends plan to escape from East Germany via Czechoslovakia.

    Henrik provides a very vivid account of their discovery by Czechoslovak border guards in a forest near the Austrian border. He describes the moment the guards open fire to get them to stop.

    Henrik is separated from his friends and held in various Czechoslovak prisons, before being flown back to East Germany. There he is interrogated for a number of months before being placed on trial.

    After his conviction for Republikflucht or "desertion from the republic" he is held on in a rough criminal prison in Dresden before being moved to a work camp.

    The prison and work camp has two types of prisoners, politicals and criminals. There he is exposed to the hardcore criminals of the GDR, violent criminals, murderers and neo-Nazis.

    0:00 Introduction and recap of the previous episode

    1:31 Interview with Henrik: Early plans and journey to Czechoslovakia

    7:40 Arrest on the border and early imprisonment experiences

    17:21 Transfer to Prague and encounter with the East German Stasi

    28:23 Arrival at the Secret Service prison in Dresden and coping in prison

    46:59 Interrogations and dealing with the Stasi

    1:00:18 Family visits, communication in prison, and considering a change of mind

    1:13:08 Reflections on the Stasi's approach and trial

    54:36 Life in remand prison and public humiliation during transport to Rakowitz work camp

    1:00:06 Living conditions, daily life, and experiences in Rakowitz work camp

    1:10:54 Announcement of amnesty and release from prison

    1:14:00 Post-release observations on the social climate in East Germany

    1:23:18 Closing remarks and outro

    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode308

    Special thanks to Jonny Whitlam for introducing Henrik to CWC. You can book his excellent Berlin tours here https://www.whitlams-berlin-tours.com/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


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    Growing up in Cold War East Germany's Valley of the Clueless (307) Sep 01, 2023

    Henrik was born in the late 1960s near Dresden in East Germany. The area was sarcastically known as the Tal der Ahnungslosen or Valley of the Clueless, as the area generally was not able to receive TV from West Germany from the mid-to-late 1950s.

    He describes his childhood growing up in a Uranium mining area. His mother was a teacher and his father was required to be a member of the Communist Party as his role at the university involved in map making which was classified as secret work.

    It’s not until he is 8 or 9 that Henrik realises there is another Germany and as he gets older he gets into Western music as he can still pick up West German radio. In 1983 his favourite grandmother moved to the West and started to bring him Western clothing and vinyl records.

    At 15 or 16 he seriously starts to think about how he can get to the West. Compulsory service in the National Peoples Army beckons increasing his urgency in finding a way to leave.

    In 1988 Henrik receives an unexpected postcard from Spain from a friend who had been sentenced for 2 years for trying to escape and this begins to crystallise Henrik’s plans.


    0:00 Introduction and background of Henrik

    10:47 The role of Western radio and music in shaping Henrik's perception of the West

    19:21 Importance of Western contact for East German citizens

    29:45 Music censorship in East Germany

    35:19 Henrik's first thoughts of leaving East Germany

    47:34 Henrik's gap year and work in a data processing factory

    52:08 News about friends sentenced for trying to escape

    1:02:24 The impact of his escape on his family

    1:06:24 Comparison of Stasi and Gestapo tactics

    1:07:45 Closing remarks, mention of episode extras and soundtrack


    If Henrik's life was made into a movie he says this would be the soundtrack… https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3eJFR6QJebyv2S16Dqyhoc?si=072a284d83dc4410

    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode307

    Special thanks to Jonny Whitlam for introducing Henrik to CWC. You can book his excellent Berlin tours here https://www.whitlams-berlin-tours.com/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Flying the Cold War A10 Tankbuster Part 2 (306) Aug 25, 2023

    You are listening to part 2 of my chat with Joe who joined the USAF in 1981 and was trained to fly the A10 Warthog a single-seat, twin-engine jet aircraft designed to provide close air support to ground forces by attacking tanks, armoured vehicles, and other ground targets. Part 1 is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode305/

    In 1985 Joe is sent to 92nd Tactical Fighter Squadron at RAF Bentwaters in the UK, just over 50 miles from where his father served in World War 2.

    His role was to fly the A10 over West Germany and attack Warsaw Pact ground forces should the Cold War turn hot.

    We hear about the perils of flying the A10 at only 100 feet in mist and rain, whilst navigating with a map on your knee in the days before GPS was available.

    Joe also recounts visiting the Inner German border and driving to his wartime target sectors to see what they looked like from the ground. He describes how they trained for landing on West German autobahns as well as their tactics against enemy aircraft.

    Joe also flew the Royal Air Force’s VTOL fighter, the Harrier, and tells of the challenge of managing the controls and his respect for the Royal Air Force.

    0:00 Introduction and Joe Andrew's deployment to UK

    1:35 Visiting the inner German border and discussion on potential kill zones

    3:29 Practice landing on autobahns and durability of A-10's undercarriage

    6:17 Low-level navigation and situational awareness in Europe

    10:59 Practice bombing, missile firing, and liaisons with the army

    15:00 Air to air defense, maneuvering training, and target acquisition

    17:32 Managing information and plotting targets while flying

    20:45 Tactics for air-to-air combat and likely survivability rate in conflict

    27:44 Training for escape and evasion if shot down, and use of countermeasures

    34:45 Joe Andrew's experiences with combat SAR alert and flying the Harrier

    44:00 Extras and acknowledgements for the podcast's financial supporters

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    Visit the RAF Bentwaters Museum here https://www.bcwm.org.uk/

    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode306

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Flying the Cold War A10 Tankbuster Part 1 (305) Aug 18, 2023

    Joe’s father served in World War 2 in the USAF. His service inspired Joe to try and join the USAF or the Naval Air Force despite having no flying experience.

    It’s the aftermath of the Vietnam War so forces are being reduced, however with the arrival of a new President, Ronald Reagan, defence spending grows and provides Joe with an opportunity to start pilot training with the USAF.

    He eventually ends up flying the A10. The A-10 was first in service in 1976 and was designed to provide close air support to ground troops by attacking armoured vehicles, tanks, and other enemy ground forces.

    Joe describes what makes the A10 special as well as his training and initial deployment in the A10 in Alaska. You get a real pilot’s eye view of flying the plane including navigation techniques and the challenges of flying low level.

    0:00 Introduction and background of Joe Andrew

    6:41 Joe's completion of officer training school and becoming a second lieutenant

    9:47 The decision of what to fly at the end of training

    15:01 Description of the A 10 and its capabilities

    28:19 First flight experience in the A-10

    32:17 Joe's first operational station and flying experience in Alaska

    37:56 Journey to Bentwaters and first impressions of the UK

    41:40 Meeting and marrying future wife in the UK

    44:13 Undergoing advisory training course for UK weather conditions

    48:05 Wrap up and preview of next week's episode

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Part two is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode306/ where Joe is sent to 92nd Fighter Squadron at RAF Bentwaters in the UK, just over 50 miles from where his father served in World War 2.

    Visit the RAF Bentwaters Museum here https://www.bcwm.org.uk/

    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode305

    Rick Shreve's F111 episode https://coldwarconversations.com/episode193/

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Love history? Join Intohistory on this link Cold War Conversations – Into History

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    A Cold War Polish childhood near Wroclaw (304) Aug 11, 2023

    Tom lived in western Poland in an area that had been part of Germany until the end of World War 2. He describes how his grandmother settled in this area and the strangeness of taking over formerly German houses and apartments.

    Tom’s grandfather on his mother’s side was a Communist activist who worked for the Polish security services which created some tension as Tom’s father dodged the draft into the Polish Army.

    Tom describes his childhood in some detail, highlighting the contrasts of life in Cold War Poland versus some of the Warsaw Pact countries such as how the Boy Scouts and the Catholic Church managed to co-exist with the Communist government.

    He is 11 years old when the free trade union Solidarity is made illegal and martial law is declared by the Polish Communist authorities. Tom describes how life changes under martial law and the suppression of Solidarity demonstrations.

    We end with the poignant story of his Grandmother’s experiences as a forced labourer in Germany during World War 2.

    0:00 Introduction and background of Tom's family history in Cold War Poland

    9:06 Tom's family members and their roles during the Cold War

    20:38 Tom's parents' professions and their impact on his upbringing

    26:15 Living conditions in the 70s in Poland and Tom's school life experiences

    41:56 The role of the Scouts movement and the state in shaping youth ideology

    48:59 Declaration of martial law and its immediate impact

    1:02:19 Witnessing solidarity demonstrations and restrictions on travel

    1:11:39 Visit to Dresden and grandmother's experience as a forced laborer

    1:22:00 Communicating with the locals in Dresden and Grandma's vivid recount

    1:24:15 Podcast extras and thanking financial supporters

    1:24:43 Closing remarks and teaser for next week's episode

    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode304

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    Love history? Join Intohistory on this link Cold War Conversations – Into History

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    Soviet MIG shoots-down a US RB-47H reconnaissance plane (303) Aug 04, 2023

    On 1 July 1960, a United States RB-47H reconnaissance plane was shot down by the Soviet Air Defence Forces while performing signals intelligence in the Barents Sea, near the Kola Peninsula, off the Arctic coast of the Soviet Union. Four of the six crew members died. The shootdown occurred exactly two months after the far better-known U-2 shootdown involving Francis Gary Powers and added to the tensions created by that incident. Gary Power and the U2 incident https://coldwarconversations.com/episode23/

    I speak with John Mollison, an aviation artist, writer, and award-winning filmmaker. Do check out his website at https://www.johnmollison.com/ John interviewed Captain "Bruce" Olmstead who was co-pilot of the RB47.

    As a result of his involvement in the incident, Olmstead received the POW medal in 1996 and Silver Star medals in 2004, as well as the Distinguished Flying Cross.

    His Silver Star Citation reads “For 208 days, Colonel Olmstead was interrogated and harassed at length on a continuous basis by numerous top Soviet Secret Police interrogating teams. Although greatly weakened physically by the lack of food, denial of sleep, and the mental rigors of constant interrogation, Colonel Olmstead steadfastly refused all attempts to give sensitive defense information or be exploited for propaganda purposes. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Colonel Olmstead has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.”

    Bruce died in October 2016.

    0:00 Introduction and background of the RB47 incident

    6:30 The shift from RB47 to U2 missions and importance of signals intelligence

    12:00 Description of the RB47's engagement and defensive armament

    17:00 Context of the times, the Gary Powers shoot down, and implications of SIOP

    20:00 The tracking, interception, and attack on the RB 47

    26:00 Communication between the Ravens and the cockpit, aftermath of the crash and capture

    33:00 The American reaction to the loss of the RB 47 and negotiations with the Soviets

    36:00 The duration of captivity, trial, and release of the crew

    38:00 Meeting with President Kennedy and the zeitgeist of the times

    40:00 Importance of the shoot down in Cold War history and other related incidents

    43:00 Podcast extras, acknowledgements, and closing remarks

    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode303

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.supercast.com/

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    The rise and fall of East German leader Erich Honecker (302) Jul 28, 2023

    Honecker emerged as an ambitious political player and became the shadowy mastermind behind the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961, a crucial moment in twentieth-century history.

    Author Nathan Morley brings to life the story of the longtime leader of the German Democratic Republic. Drawing from a wealth of untapped archival sources – and firsthand interviews with Honecker’s lawyers, journalists, and contemporary witnesses – Morley paints a vivid portrait of how an uneducated miner’s son from the Saarland rose to the highest ranks of the German Communist Party.

    Having survived a decade of brutality in Nazi prisons, and frequently on the verge of being relegated to obscurity, he managed to overthrow strongman Walter Ulbricht at the height of the Cold War and reigned supreme over the GDR between 1971-1989.

    However, by 1980, the Honecker honeymoon was on the wane as a decade of economic and social difficulties blighted the GDR. Then, as tumultuous changes swept through the Soviet bloc, everything in and around him collapsed in 1989. His health, his certainties, his ideology, his apparatus of power, and his beloved SED party.

    0:00 Introduction and discussion on the life of Eric Honecker

    5:42 Overview of Honecker's early life and family background

    13:49 Honecker's return to Germany and the state of the country

    19:37 Honecker's post-war life and rise in East German politics

    28:01 Honecker's struggle with the exodus of East Germany's population

    34:53 Operation Rose: The division of Berlin

    44:10 Public perception of Honecker in East Germany

    46:05 Intensifying economic struggles in East Germany and Poland

    55:26 Honecker's refusal to follow Gorbachev's reforms and health decline

    1:01:19 Honecker's extradition and trial in Berlin

    1:03:17 Honecker's release and final years in Chile

    1:05:29 Honecker's funeral and tributes received

    1:06:51 Mention of the book "The Man Who built the Berlin Wall" by Nathan Moreley and podcast extras

    1:07:22 Acknowledgement of podcast's financial supporters and closing remarks


    Buy the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781399088824

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Book giveaway entry info here https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway/

    Episodes mentioned:

    History of East Germany https://coldwarconversations.com/episode284/

    Doping of East German athletes https://coldwarconversations.com/episode264/

    Polish strikes in 1980 https://coldwarconversations.com/episode152/

    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode302/


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    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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    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.

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    US Army tank platoon commander in 1980s Cold War Korea (301) Jul 21, 2023

    Tom Sullivan was a tank platoon commander in Korea in the early 1980s responsible for six tanks and their crew

    We hear why he joined the US Army, his training, and his first impressions of Korea in the Winter of 1982.

    He is assigned to Second Platoon, C Company, 1-72 Armor under the toughest Company Commander in the Brigade who had very high standards, no humour, and was a rigid disciplinarian with an uncompromising approach.

    Tom shares details of his fellow soldiers, including Vietnam veterans, the living conditions

    He explains the challenges of operating armour where the winter weather is brutal, and the majority of the terrain is hills, mountains, rice paddies, and dirt roads

    We discuss the threat the North Koreans posed and the scarce hope that reinforcements would arrive in sufficient time should the North Koreans decide to attack.

    0:00 Introduction and background of Tom Sullivan

    4:56 Training to become an armored officer and the role of international instructors

    14:12 Arrival in Korea, transfer to Camp Casey and introduction to the unit

    20:35 Initial challenges and observations in Korea

    27:57 Exercise with Korean army units: Team Spirit and deployment experience

    32:00 Living conditions and navigating the difficult Korean terrain

    39:00 Proximity to the DMZ and observing cross border fire and incursions

    43:38 Using the M48 tank in Korea and facing the North Korean armored threat

    51:08 Being within North Korean artillery range and potential infiltration threats

    57:22 Acknowledgement of financial supporters and podcast extras

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode301/



    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Assembling and delivering nuclear artillery rounds to the Cold War West German Army (300) Jul 14, 2023

    In February 1983 US soldier Manuel Alzager was sent to a mysterious posting to the British Zone in the north of West Germany a long way from the main US forces in southern Germany.

    After a lengthy journey, he is picked up by a West German private and eventually arrives at the 81st USAFAD (US Army Field Artillery Detachment), where his mission is to guard, assemble, and deliver low-yield nuclear artillery rounds to the 7th West German Army Artillery Regiment.

    He describes how the rounds were assembled as well as their orders in the event of unauthorised intruders. Being stationed in the British Zone of West Germany Manuel also tells us about the love/hate relationship with the Brits where they would fight, make up, drink, and fight again.

    0:00 Introduction and overview of the episode

    0:55 Manuel Altsaga's experience and assignment in West Germany

    13:25 Mission and protocol related to nuclear artillery rounds

    21:10 Public awareness and potential spy encounters

    24:29 Guard duty and response plan for potential attacks

    30:06 Social interactions and bonding with British soldiers

    32:14 Manuel's departure from Germany and reflection on his service

    33:38 Manuel's assignment at Fort Bragg and decision not to re-enlist

    37:00 Transition to civilian life: College and California National Guard

    39:17 Acknowledgement of financial supporters and promotion of Facebook discussion group

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Manuel's other episodes are here:

    A 17-year-old in the Cold War US Army https://coldwarconversations.com/episode57/

    Experiences of the Cold War Reforger 82 NATO Exercise https://coldwarconversations.com/episode100/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode300/



    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Dickey Chapelle - trailblazing female Cold War journalist (299) Jul 07, 2023

    Now have you ever heard of Dickey Chapelle? No, I hadn’t either, but I’m delighted to bring you the unknown story of this trailblazing female war correspondent.

    Dickey’s career started in World War 2 where she reported from some of the Pacific wars’ toughest battlefields of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

    During the Cold War, she reported from Hungary during the 1956 Uprising and was held in the infamous Fő Prison and interrogated by the Hungarian security forces.

    Dickey went on to report from the struggle of the Algerian Liberation Front covering their campaign against French colonial rule as well as becoming the first Western female reporter to march with Castro’s Cuban Revolutionary Army.

    She was the first woman to be given permission to para drop with the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions' first correspondent to live with anti-communist guerrilla forces in the Mekong Delta.

    Later, she would become the first female reporter to go on patrol with the First and Third Battalions of the Seventh Marines Regiment which were among the initial US combat troops sent to Vietnam.

    0:00 Introduction to the episode and the story of Dickie Chapelle

    1:22 Interview with author Larissa Reinhardt on Dickie Chapelle's journalism career

    12:46 Chapelle's experiences in the Hungarian revolution and subsequent arrest

    19:57 Discussion on Chapelle's post-traumatic stress disorder and reporting style

    21:13 Chapelle's determination to report on the Algerian war of independence

    25:07 Difficulty of getting such stories published in the US

    30:02 Chapelle's time in Cuba and her unique reporting strategies

    38:54 Discussion on the Bay of Pigs incident and CIA's control of information

    47:52 Early assessment of the Vietnam War by Chapelle

    52:38 Chapelle's fame in the US and her vocal opposition to the treatment of South Vietnamese

    56:11 Chapelle's death and its impact on the journalism world

    57:54 Ian Sanders wraps up the conversation and promotes Larissa's book

    58:20 Thanks to the financial supporters of the podcast


    Buy the book here and support the podcast https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781250276575

    Book giveaway entry info here https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode299/



    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    The Cold war ice hockey team that fought the Soviets for the soul of its nation (298) Jun 30, 2023

    I speak with author Ethan Scheiner whose book “Freedom to Win” describes the gripping story of a group of small-town young men who would lead their underdog hockey team from Czechoslovakia against the Soviet Union, the juggernaut in their sport.

    In 1968 Czechoslovakia experienced the Prague Spring, an attempt to moderate and soften communism. However, a sudden invasion by 500,000 Warsaw Pact soldiers halts the reforms.

    We hear the inspiring story of how the young players of the national hockey team battle the Soviets on the ice to keep their people’s quest for freedom alive and forge a way to fight back against the authoritarian forces that sought to crush them.

    0:00 Introduction and background on the episode's guest

    2:51 Background on the Holik family and their struggle under the Nazi occupation

    9:37 The unique situation of army teams in Czechoslovakia and the Holik brothers' involvement

    15:50 Yaroslav Holik: A superhero in Czechoslovakia

    23:23 The heated 1967 World Championships match between Czechoslovakia and the Soviet Union

    28:48 The impact of the Prague Spring on Czechoslovakia's performance in ice hockey

    34:21 The Prague Spring and the World Ice Hockey Championships

    40:37 The aftermath of Dubcek's negotiations with the Soviets

    49:35 The 1969 World Ice Hockey Championships

    1:08:08 The consequences for the hockey players

    Buy the book here and support the podcast https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781639363513

    Book giveaway entry info here https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway/


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode298/


    Prague Spring and Cold War Czechoslovakia episodes https://coldwarconversations.com/tag/czechoslovakia/


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    The last voice you'd hear in a nuclear war (297) Jun 23, 2023

    The BBC Wartime Broadcasting Service (WTBS) is a little-known piece of Cold War history that would have been for many the last human voice they heard after a nuclear attack on the UK.

    Iain started work for the BBC in 1988 and due to the pressure on training space, was trained in the nuclear bunker at BBC Wood Norton.

    After training he went to Broadcasting House in London where he first encountered some of the technical infrastructure the WTBS would use. Iain did a spell in the main control room and recalls the red phone which was the link from Whitehall to initiate the BBC War Book.

    Over time Iain has collected knowledge on all aspects of the WTBS and he shares details of where it would have been broadcast from, what would have been heard, and who, in the event of an attack, would have descended into the bunkers to broadcast it.

    Iain also delivers a talk on the subject. There are more details on this link.

    https://speakernet.co.uk/talk/4000/the-bbc-the-bomb-cold-war-broadcasting-from-the-bunkers

    Hack Green Nuclear bunker that has a preserved BBC studio (as seen in our episode cover) https://www.hackgreen.co.uk/

    0:00 Introduction to the episode and the BBC wartime broadcasting service

    2:05 Introduction of the guest, Ian Benson

    3:04 Ian's fascination with the WTS and his experiences at the BBC

    8:27 The evolution of the WTS with the onset of the Cold War

    13:12 The change in broadcasting plans with the advent of transistor radios

    15:33 The BBC's emergency broadcasting facility and its myths

    20:01 Changes in television and radio broadcasts during emergencies

    25:26 Launch and activation of the Wartime Broadcasting Service (WTBS)

    30:33 The dilemma of duty versus family for BBC staff during emergencies

    35:59 Regular exercises and resistance from BBC staff towards emergency broadcasting

    44:36 Conclusion and wrap-up of the episode

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Extra videos and photos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode297/


    Previous UK Civil Defence episodes

    How Cold War Britain Prepared for Nuclear War https://coldwarconversations.com/episode285/

    Cold War leaflets and documents https://coldwarconversations.com/episode112/

    Assigned to a government bunker https://coldwarconversations.com/episode107/

    Visit to a Royal Observer Corps monitoring post and interview with the Chief Observer who served in the post https://coldwarconversations.com/episode30/

    Alistair McCann has preserved a Royal Observer Corps monitoring post as a museum in Northern Ireland. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode11/



    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    The ultimate guide to Cold War locations in Berlin (296) Jun 20, 2023

    Jonny Whitlam has been a Berlin tour guide since 2010, and since then he’s been showing travellers from across the world the fascinating history of Berlin.

    We met via social media after I noticed his great videos describing well-known and lesser know 20th-century historical locations in Berlin.

    We discussed doing an episode to help you see Cold War Berlin sites without needing a tour guide and this episode is the result. However, if you would like a personal tour check out Jonny’s tours on this link. Book your Berlin private tour experience now (whitlams-berlin-tours.com)

    Jonny is keen to share Berlin’s amazing history with everyone and he has put together The Ultimate Guide to Cold War Berlin which includes an amazing Google map of Cold War sites in Berlin. Despite the name, this list is not exhaustive and we’d welcome suggestions for anything you think we have missed!

    0:00 Introduction and guest introduction: Johnny Whitlam

    2:21 Interview with Johnny Whitlam: His experience as a tour guide and significant Cold War sites in Berlin

    15:49 Must-see locations in Central Berlin according to Johnny Whitlam

    27:30 Treptower Park: The Soviet Cemetery in Berlin

    31:50 Ian Sanders shares a story about two brothers rescuing their sibling from East Berlin

    42:35 Touring Potsdam and Berlin:

    47:06 Waldsiedlung : GDR Leaders Housing Estate

    57:04 Recommended Cold War Museums: Including Allied Museum and DDR Museum

    1:02:02 Erich Mielke's office at the Stasi Museum

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra episode information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode296/


    Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

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    A KGB trained spy's desperate escape from Cold War South Africa (295) Jun 16, 2023

    South Africa in the 1980s is a brutal, racist Apartheid regime. Those who oppose it risk their lives. Apartheid was a system of institutionalised racial segregation that existed in South Africa from 1948 to the early 1990s


    Sue Dobson is moving easily through the echelons of the racist government in her work as a journalist, whilst concealing her espionage and military training in the Soviet Union, and her intelligence work for the banned African National Congress. She interviewed Apartheid ministers and had a honey trap affair with a police chief involved with the Namibian independence process.


    However, Sue's cover is blown leading to her desperate flight across Southern Africa with the Apartheid security police snapping at her heels. We hear in detail about her tense three day car journey to the Soviet Embassy in Botswana and how her KGB training saved her life…


    0:00 Introduction and Sue Dobson's Espionage Journey

    2:22 Sue's Role in the South African Bureau of Information and Namibia's Independence

    8:21 Sue's Encounter with Key Information Source and Communication with ANC

    13:55 Sue's Meeting with Apartheid Era Figures and Confrontation with Pik Botha

    18:44 Sue's Moral Dilemma and Justification for Her Actions

    20:37 Global Attention on South Africa and Tactics Used in Namibia

    22:37 Sue's Job Offer and Realization of a Potential Exposure

    24:15 Sue's Escape Plan and Journey through Namibia

    32:58 Sue's Close Encounter with Surveillance and Journey to Botswana

    40:12 Sue's Refuge in the Russian Compound and Escape to Europe

    44:27 Sue's New Life in the UK and Fears of Parcel Bombs and Poisonings

    47:22 Sue's Decision to Share Her Story

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Listeners can find details of our book giveaway here https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway/


    Episode extras including videos and photos https://coldwarconversations.com/episode295/


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    A KGB trained spy in Cold War South Africa (294) Jun 09, 2023

    South Africa in the 1980s is a brutal, racist regime. Those who oppose it risk their lives.

    Sue Dobson, was a young white South African woman who was also a spy for the banned African National Congress. The ANC was a liberation movement known for its opposition to apartheid

    In the 1980s she built a legend, a fake persona where she pretends to conform, moving easily through the echelons of the racist government in her work as a journalist, whilst concealing her espionage and military training in the Soviet Union, and her intelligence work.

    We begin with her childhood and what life was like under apartheid. Sue then describes her journey to joining the African National Congress, her recruitment into the armed wing, and her training in the Soviet Union.

    0:00 Introduction and brief history of apartheid

    0:31 Sue Dobson: Life as a spy for the ANC

    8:35 Geopolitical outlook of South Africa during the Cold War

    15:40 Sue Dobson's initial contact with the ANC and her training

    24:38 Living a lie permanently and returning to London

    27:43 First impressions of the Soviet Union

    32:57 Building strong bonds with the training team

    39:55 Shocking news upon return to South Africa and becoming a spy

    44:31 End of part one and preview for next week

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    Buy the book here and support Cold War Conversations

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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.

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    The 10 year old girl who tried to stop a nuclear war (293) Jun 02, 2023

    In November of 1982, at the height of the Cold War, Samantha Smith, a 10-year-old girl from Manchester, Maine, wrote to the Soviet leader Yuri Andropov and asked him if he was going to wage a nuclear war against the U.S.


    When an unprecedented response from Andropov arrived, and Samantha received an invitation to visit the USSR, she and her family embarked on a journey that brought the two warring nations closer together.


    We speak with author Lena Nelson who was born in the Soviet Union and has spent the past 15 years researching and documenting the story of Samantha Smith and creating an archive at https://www.samanthasmith.info/.


    Lena reveals how Samantha Smith's journey in the summer of 1983 helped melt the hearts of the Soviets and thaw the ice of the Cold War. We talk about the interviews she conducted in both the US and Russia with key players in the events of those days and tell the story of this unprecedented moment in history.


    0:00 Introduction and interview with author Lena Nelson about Samantha Smith

    1:35 Sponsor: Support for Cold War Conversations

    5:24 Samantha Smith's motivation to write to Yuri Andropov and her history of letter writing

    14:54 Lena's impressions of American life from Samantha Smith's documentary

    20:49 Samantha Smith's preparation for her trip to the Soviet Union

    25:41 Samantha Smith's arrival in the Soviet Union and the initial reactions

    33:54 Natasha's accidental trip to Artek and meeting Samantha Smith

    43:25 The incident over the colour of hot dogs in the Artek cafeteria and Samantha's image as an ideal American representative

    48:37 Samantha's post-trip experience and school life

    57:04 Circumstances of Samantha's tragic death and Lina Nelson's memory of hearing the news in the Soviet Union

    1:05:16 Lina's collaboration with Jane and the evolution of her project

    1:07:19 Podcast conclusion, invitation to Facebook discussion group and closing remarks by Ian Sanders

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    Lena’s book America's Youngest Ambassador: The Cold War Story of Samantha Smith's Lasting Message of Peace is available via this link https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781684750207


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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.

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    Episode extras including videos and photos https://coldwarconversations.com/episode293/


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    Cold War Polish People Army Radio Operator (292) May 26, 2023

    Communist Poland had universal conscription and the armed forces were huge by contemporary standards. The Polish People’s Army, Navy, and Airforce had just over 400,000 troops for most of the 1980s in a country of 36 million.

    Tom was a conscript in Polish People's Army from 1987-89. He served as a radio operator in Legnica for the rocket artillery.

    His service was at an interesting time when the communist dominance ended as Poland began to embrace democracy in its first free elections before World War 2.

    Tom shares details of his conscription process, selection, and initial training. We also hear of training exercises, attempts at political indoctrination, and his role if the Cold War had ever turned hot.

    I’m very keen to expand our library of Warsaw Pact voices, so if you know of any other English speakers who served in the Warsaw Pact Forces during the Cold War do let me know.

    0:00 Introduction and background of Polish military conscription

    5:18 Issuance of army book and process for students aspiring for higher education

    10:59 Political education at the university and military radio training

    19:43 Tom's role as a mobile radio operator and experience in an armored truck

    27:15 Fear of being ordered to stop demonstrations and participating in Warsaw Pact exercises

    35:28 Interactions with the Russian military and instructions if captured by NATO forces

    40:31 Living conditions and military structure in Legnica

    45:28 Perception of the West as a threat and the Army's transition after the Russian withdrawal

    49:37 Reflecting on time in the Polish People's Army and pretending to work

    51:27 Episode extras and thanks to financial supporters

    51:58 Closing remarks by Ian Sanders

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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.

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    Volker the Berlin Wall Escape Helper (291) May 19, 2023

    It’s 1966 in Berlin and the city has now been divided for 5 years by an almost impenetrable wall erected by the communist German Democratic Republic.

    Together with his friends, West German student Volker Heinz joins a group looking for ways to help would-be fugitives escape from East to West.

    Their search ends at Checkpoint Charlie, the most heavily secured border crossing of the Berlin Wall. By hiding the fugitives in the trunk of a diplomat's car, Volker Heinz helps East German citizens flee to the West.

    However, the Stasi picks up his trail, and Volker is arrested and interrogated. We hear in detail about his time in prison, including the interrogations and fellow cellmates.

    Following secret negotiations and a show trial where he is sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, Heinz is eventually swapped for two Soviet spies.

    In 2001 Heinz initiated the German-British foundation Temple Gift dedicated to the reconciliation of former foes Britain and Germany. In 2012 he was awarded the Federal Order of Merit in recognition of his courage.

    0:00 Introduction and Volker Heinz's story

    5:19 Volker's involvement in helping East German citizens escape

    20:01 Reflections on the experience and diplomatic immunity

    30:25 Volker's arrest, interrogation, and time in prison

    57:12 Meeting Wolfgang Vogel and trial experiences

    1:02:23 Volker's prison experiences and Stasi's recruitment attempts

    1:05:54 Volker's release and return to West Germany

    1:09:32 Volker's post-prison life and discovery of Stasi's tracking

    1:14:21 Volker's book and its contribution to Cold War understanding

    1:14:41 Sponsor: Amberley Publishing

    1:15:11 Closing remarks and podcast's Facebook discussion group information


    Buy the book here and support CWC https://amzn.to/42V7FUK


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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.

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    Cold War Canadian airborne anti-submarine missions (290) May 12, 2023

    Colonel Terry Chester’s flying career spanned some 42 years, and 10,000 flying hours. He joined the RCAF in Sept 1964 and in 1968 was awarded Navigator Wings.

    Terry flew for 3,000 hrs on the Argus Maritime patrol aircraft where he spent a good portion of his RCAF career hunting for Soviet Submarines in both the Pacific and Atlantic areas of operation.

    He was instrumental in the design criteria for sub-hunting capability when Canada procured the new Aurora, for anti-submarine hunting in the early 1980s.

    Terry reveals sub-hunting tactics as well as details of Canadian participation in NATO exercises.

    Among other stories, he describes how he accidentally attacked a US nuclear submarine, the perils of landing in Gibraltar, and Soviet sub-incursions into Canadian waters. He also recalls airborne meetings with Soviet aircraft and a trip in the British nuclear submarine HMS Churchill.

    0:00 Introduction to Cold War Conversations with Colonel Terry Chester

    2:24 Overview of Chester's experiences in Anti-Submarine Warfare and the Soviet Navy

    5:05 Accounts of accidental attacks on US nuclear submarines

    13:21 Encounters with Soviet aircraft and monitoring of Soviet submarines

    20:34 The Gibraltar Base, Spanish tensions, and life aboard HMS Churchill

    26:28 Protocols and preparations for potential nuclear warfare

    28:14 Soviet submarine incursions in Canadian waters and international cooperation

    32:19 End of the Cold War: experiences and concerns

    33:40 Post-Cold War era and the Western Alliance's reduced defense spending

    34:21 Reflections on serving in the Cold War and camaraderie during service

    35:17 Sponsor: Listener Support and invitation to the Facebook discussion group

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    Episode 1 of our interview with Terry is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode54/

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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.

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    If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    Episode extras including videos and photos https://coldwarconversations.com/episode290/

    Do take a look at Vintage Wings a collection of historically significant aircraft that Terry has worked on as well as the Royal Canadian Airforce Association of which Terry was a National President.

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    Discovering your husband is a KGB spy (289) May 05, 2023

    The second part of Svetlana’s story starts shortly after her arrival in West Germany with her husband Oleg who is the Chief Editor of the Russian Service of Radio Liberty a CIA-financed station beaming Western propaganda into the Soviet Union. Listen to the previous episode here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode288/

    To Svetlana’s horror, Oleg reveals that he has been working for the KGB for 14 years. Svetlana is now trapped. She is in a quandary. Should she betray the man she loves and risk the wrath of the KGB or should she stay loyal to her husband?

    Loyalty wins out and she is invited by the Americans to teach Russian to intelligence officers and later becomes assistant to the commander at the US Army Intelligence Institute in Munich.

    However, in 1986 Oleg disappears and leaves Svetlana on her own in West Germany. At a press conference in Moscow, he reveals his espionage and suspicion falls on Svetlana…

    0:00 Introduction and background of Svetlana's story

    5:34 Discussion about Oleg's recruitment into the KGB and his role as a spy

    15:18 Svetlana's job with the Americans and the impact on their relationship

    24:06 Lie detector test and its implications for Oleg

    31:02 The pressures of leading a double life and Oleg's subsequent disappearance

    40:50 Svetlana's actions and the aftermath of Oleg's disappearance

    46:58 Oleg's return to Munich, American secret investigations, and the disagreement with Germans

    55:23 Oleg's encounters with Vladimir Putin and his subsequent help

    58:47 Oleg's arrest, trial, and prison sentence

    1:03:29 Oleg's life post-prison and his encounters with the FBI and family in the United States

    1:07:34 Transition to life in Moscow and political involvement with "John Wood"

    1:08:04 Episode extras and thanking financial supporters

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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.

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    Episode extras including videos and photos https://coldwarconversations.com/episode289/

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    From Soviet Latvia to the BBC Russian Service (288) Apr 28, 2023

    Svetlana came from a dissident Jewish family opposed to Soviet rule in Latvia. Her parents survived World War 2, but during the Stalin era two members of her family were held in the Gulags. The family never resigned themselves to Latvia's occupation by the Soviet Union in 1940.

    It was almost impossible to legally leave the Soviet Union, however, in 1971 the first opportunities for "Jewish" emigration appeared, and Svetlana, then aged 12 and her family left legally.

    At the age of 16, she is staying with her Uncle in London when she comes across Bush House, the home of the BBC Russian Service.

    Svetlana manages to get a job there and begins to get promoted. She meets Georgi Markov who is assassinated by Bulgarian Security Services on Waterloo Bridge in London and later she is introduced to Oleg, the Chief Editor of the Russian Service of Radio Liberty, a CIA-financed station beaming Western propaganda into the Soviet Union. This meeting has a profound effect on her life…

    0:00 Introduction and Svetlana's Background

    7:23 Svetlana's Experiences during the Stalin Era and Attempted Hijack

    14:12 Svetlana's Immigration and Figure Skating Career

    17:04 Svetlana's Arrival in Vienna and First Impressions of Western Lifestyle

    23:51 Svetlana's Experience at BBC and Life in London and Israel

    31:42 Encounter with Georgi Markov and Introduction to Oleg

    39:43 Oleg's Escape from Soviet Union and Journey to Libya

    44:32 Oleg's Role in Radio Liberty

    46:57 Svetlana's Move to Germany and Discovery of Oleg's KGB Affiliation

    49:21 Preview of Next Episode and Closing Remarks

    2:00 Sponsor Message and Testimonial from a Listener

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    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Details and extra video content on this link https://coldwarconversations.com/episode288/

    St Petersburg (Leningrad) aircraft hijack episode https://coldwarconversations.com/episode258/


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    Transferring from the East German Army (NVA) to the unified German Army (Bundeswehr) (287) Apr 21, 2023

    We continue Steffen’s story where he tells of serving in three armies – firstly, the NVA, secondly the East German Army between the first free elections and unification, and finally the unified Bundeswehr.


    We start the episode in the Autumn of 1989 where demonstrations are growing against the government in nearby Leipzig and Steffen’s unit is on high alert and confined to barracks. It is clear East Germany is on the cusp of change however, what will be the impact on Steffen and his comrades?


    Steffen describes these tense days when rumours abounded of military action against the demonstrators, as well as how he heard about the fall of Honecker and the opening of the border. We also hear about his experiences as the NVA transitions after the first free elections in East Germany and momentum builds for reunification.


    Steffen accepts a place in the new unified German army and we hear about the day command is handed over to the Bundeswehr and how he has to learn a different way of thinking, such as the new doctrine of personal responsibility.

    0:00 Introduction and Steffen's account of tension in East Germany

    2:26 Steffen's experiences during high alert and rumors of military action

    9:41 Steffen's account of the news about Honecker's departure and post-fall experiences

    13:29 Steffen's thoughts on a better GDR and first crossing into the West

    18:32 Changes in public sentiment during weekly demonstrations and the decline of grassroots groups

    24:15 Reunification possibilities and its effect on the NVA

    29:11 Steffen's encounter with Bundeswehr troops and changes post-reunification

    34:03 Steffen's transition from the East German uniform to the Bundeswehr uniform

    43:57 Transformation in the relationship between soldiers and commanders post-reunification

    46:51 Impact of reunification on Steffen's parents' jobs and his own career path

    54:31 Steffen's comparison between NVA and Bunderswehr

    55:46 Sponsor: Reminder about the Facebook discussion group

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    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Photos and extra video content on this link https://coldwarconversations.com/episode287/


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    Drafted into the East German Army (286) Apr 14, 2023

    Steffen was born in Karl Marx Stadt and was conscripted into the NVA (East German Army) in 1988.

    When he left school he started an apprenticeship in electronics learning how to build radio receivers at REMA, a then-famous producer of HiFi equipment.

    Steffen is called up at 18 for his 18 months of service and he talks of the conscription process and incentives offered to him to serve for a longer period.


    Steffen is posted to a unit in Leipzig that was responsible for telephone lines from the NVA Headquarters for the area south of Berlin. He describes the training he took and the role he carried out including installing phones for NATO Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty inspectors.

    In the summer of 1989 many citizens of East Germany flee the country via the now semi-open Hungarian border and Steffen describes heightened tension within the Army.

    Don’t miss next week’s episode where Steffen describes his transfer into the Bundeswehr, the West German Army.

    0:00 Introduction and guest presentation

    2:36 Steffen's childhood and school life in East Germany

    15:21 Steffen's conscription into the East German army and training experiences

    25:37 Steffen's comrades and checks conducted on him before his role

    29:38 Steffen's experience with possible Stasi checks

    32:34 Steffen's daily duties in the East German army and infrastructure of the East German phone system

    37:14 Steffen's mission involving a secret code word and awareness of the Allied military liaison missions

    43:16 Access to Western media while in the East German army

    47:49 Lead up to Steffen's job on October 7th, 1989 and preview of next week's episode

    48:34 Sponsor: Encouragement for listeners to donate and join the Facebook discussion group

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    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve these first hand accounts. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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/

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    Episode extra inc videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode286/


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    How Cold War Britain prepared for Nuclear War (285) Apr 07, 2023

    During the Cold War, the awesome power of nuclear weapons and its deadly fallout meant that every town, village and home in Britain fell under the nuclear shadow, and the threat of annihilation coloured every aspect of ordinary life.


    I chat with author and fellow Cold War podcaster Julie McDowall about her new book Attack Warning Red!: How Britain Prepared for Nuclear War. We discuss how families were encouraged to construct makeshift shelters with cardboard, plastic sheets and sandbags, as well as how vicars and pub landlords learnt how to sound hand-wound sirens, offering four minutes to scramble to safety. and the thousands who volunteered to give nuclear first aid, often consisting of breakfast tea, herbal remedies, and advice on how to die without contaminating others.


    It's a fascinating, haunting and darkly humorous look at the UK government’s attempts to prepare the UK population for nuclear war while bunkers were readied for the officials and experts who, in theory, would ensure life continued after Armageddon.


    Buy the book & support CWC https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781847926210

    0:00 Introduction and story of a village landlord's plan for nuclear warning

    4:08 The 4-minute nuclear warning system in the UK

    14:22 Role of the Women's Royal Volunteer Service in the Cold War

    20:03 Rise of organizations like the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament

    27:05 The Python plan for government survival in a nuclear attack

    33:07 Visiting former Cold War government bunkers in the UK

    37:04 The haunting TV version of Protect and Survive

    51:15 The selection process for government bunker inhabitants

    56:09 The importance of Threads in understanding nuclear war

    1:10:54 Introduction to Julie McDowell's book 'Attack Warning Red'

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    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve these first hand accounts. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Previous UK Civil Defence episodes

    Cold War leaflets and documents https://coldwarconversations.com/episode112/

    Assigned to a government bunker https://coldwarconversations.com/episode107/

    Visit to a Royal Observer Corps monitoring post and interview with the Chief Observer who served in the post https://coldwarconversations.com/episode30/

    Alistair McCann has preserved a Royal Observer Corps monitoring post as a museum in Northern Ireland. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode11/


    Book giveaway info and extra videos https://coldwarconversations.com/episode285/


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    Beyond the Wall: East Germany, 1949-1990 (284) Mar 31, 2023

    In 1990, a country disappeared. When the Iron Curtain fell, East Germany simply ceased to be. For over forty years, from the ruin of the Second World War to the cusp of a new millennium, the GDR presented a radically different German identity to anything that had come before, and anything that exists today. Socialist solidarity, secret police, central planning, barbed wire: this was a Germany forged on the fault lines of ideology and geopolitics.


    I talk with acclaimed historian Katja Hoyer Whose new book Beyond the Wall: East Germany, 1949-1990 offers a kaleidoscopic new vision of this vanished country. Beginning with the bitter experience of German Marxists exiled by Hitler, to the creaking foundations of socialism in the mid-1980s, we discuss that amid oppression and frequent hardship, East Germany was yet home to a rich political, social, and cultural landscape, a place far more dynamic than the Cold War caricature often painted in the West.


    Powerfully told, and drawing on a vast array of never-before-seen interviews, letters, and records, this is the definitive history of the other Germany, the one beyond the Wall.

    0:00 Introduction to the episode and Katya Hoya

    2:37 Katya Hoya's approach to researching and writing about East Germany

    7:35 Arrival of Gruppe Ulbricht in Soviet occupied zone of Germany

    15:19 Public sentiment towards the formation of East Germany

    21:24 The 1953 uprising in East Germany

    24:19 The economic disparity between East and West Germany

    33:10 Evidence of Honecker's collaboration with Nazi authorities

    45:17 Car ownership in East Germany: perceptions and realities

    1:00:14 The unique relationship between Helmut Kohl and Honecker

    1:10:16 The impact of reunification on East Germany's economy and workforce

    1:21:43 Ending notes, book promotion, and thanks to supporters



    UK listeners can support CWC by buying the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9780241553787

    US listeners can support CWC by buying the book here https://bookshop.org/a/92195/9781541602571


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Details and extra video content on this link https://coldwarconversations.com/episode284/


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    A British kid transferred to a Soviet school (283) Mar 25, 2023

    Richard was 6 years old when he was uprooted from a school in the United States to a Soviet school 700 miles East of Moscow.

    In 1988 the Soviet Union was opening up following Michael Gorbachev’s policy of Perestroika and American firms began looking at the possibility of trading with the Soviet Union. It was politically and economically sensitive and his family was chosen to be sent to the USSR to open a factory in the industrial town of Nizhnekamsk in Tartarstan.


    They lived in a special apartment building designated for foreigners and Richard attended the local school. Being thrown in the deep end of a Soviet school was a shock to him and he had to adapt fast, not least by learning Russian.


    He describes his school experiences and the stark contrasts with his previous life. Despite the difference, he found being six years old in the Soviet Union in all, rather fun. There was a Lunar Park for us to go on rides, war-themed toys like tanks and soldiers even at school, and all sorts of mischief were had.


    Life in Nizhnekamsk was hard on his mother who had to stay at home a lot and found the whole experience painfully boring.

    0:00 Introduction and Richard's move to the Soviet Union

    5:32 Life and impressions of Nizhnekamsk, the Soviet industrial city

    11:57 Schooling and social experiences in the Soviet Union

    24:22 Sponsor break

    24:33 Dealing with school dynamics and ideological content in subjects

    31:25 Restrictions and mischief in the Soviet Union

    35:00 Family struggles and lifestyle in the Soviet Union

    41:10 Fond memories and reasons for leaving the Soviet Union

    44:41 Reconnecting with old schoolmates and appreciation of Soviet architecture

    48:07 Acknowledgment of financial supporters and invitation to donate

    49:03 Closing remarks and promotion of Cold War Conversations store

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Photos and extra content here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode283/




    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Cold War US Army tank driver at the Iron Curtain (282) Mar 18, 2023

    Brian Regal entered the US Army in 1977 and served on the M60A1 tank initially as a driver. The M60A1 was America's primary main battle tank during the Cold War, with initial deployment in 1960 and combat service through to 1991.


    After tank school, Brian was sent to West Germany where he was assigned to the 3/35 Armor in the Bamberg Garrison as part of the 1st Armored Division US Army, where the 3/35 was tasked to fight a Warsaw Pact attack across the Czechoslovak and East German borders. Brian was also his company’s nuclear, biological and chemical warfare specialist.


    He describes in detail his training, how patrols were conducted along the borders, an incident with a Soviet Military Liaison mission car, the war games amongst the West German civilians, as well as practice alerts.


    It’s a great chat and Brian is frank about his role and the scant expectations for survival if war did come.


    He is now Dr. Brian Regal, Professor for the History of Science, Technology, and Medicine at Kean University, New Jersey

    web page: https://sites.google.com/a/kean.edu/brian-regal-phd/

    0:00 Introduction and Brian Regal's initial days in the US Army

    1:53 Request for donations to support the podcast

    7:00 Brian's decision to join the Army and training experiences

    23:41 Arrival at the first duty station in Bamburg Garrison, Bavaria

    28:57 Introduction to M60A1 tank and its features

    37:56 NBC training and nuclear chemical defense

    52:54 Practice alerts and close calls during the Cold War

    1:01:05 Rules of engagement at the border and description of fortifications

    1:07:58 Interaction with German civilians and Soviet military during service

    1:31:08 Journey to becoming a tank commander

    1:35:48 Episode extras and appreciation for financial supporters

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation you will give me the ammunition to keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra photos and videos here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode282/



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    Cold War Dutch conscientious objector (281) Mar 11, 2023

    In 1987 Martin received a letter informing him of his conscription into the Dutch Army. A number of European NATO countries had conscription during the Cold War. Holland’s applied to men over the age of 18 and included service for about a year, after which you were placed on the reserve.

    Martin objected to military service as a conscientious objector on religious grounds. Conscientious objectors could perform alternative civilian service instead of military service. However to get to be an official “conscientious objector” you had to pass multiple military courts and military procedures which was especially challenging for someone aged 17 years old.

    Martin is very honest about his beliefs and his experiences. During the Cold War he was seen by some as an enemy because he refused to bear arms to protect his country.

    You may disagree with his views, but it’s a Cold War topic that is little covered elsewhere and I’m sure you will find my conversation with Martin as fascinating and powerful as I did.

    0:00 Introduction to Cold War Conversations and Martin's military interaction

    0:58 Conscription during the Cold War and Martin's conscientious objection

    2:13 Sponsor message and user testimony

    4:30 Martin's family's experiences and his draft notice

    10:54 Process and challenges of becoming a conscientious objector

    22:07 Martin's moral position and Ian's comments

    24:10 Attempts to avoid conscription and Dutch law

    29:37 Anti-nuclear movement in Holland and soldiers' participation

    33:39 Martin's gratitude for the law and public reaction to his conscientious objection

    41:19 Perception of conscientious objectors and Martin's replacement service

    48:26 Current status of conscription in the Netherlands

    53:05 Martin's perspective on defending his country and serving humanity

    56:51 Podcast extras, call for support, and closing remarks

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    .Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/281


    The foundation Martin works for as a volunteer is: https://www.emmy.foundation/




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    Discovering your Cold War Czechoslovak Secret Police file (280) Mar 04, 2023

    Mark Baker was featured in episode 9 where he told us about working in Czechoslovakia in the 1980s as a journalist for a small publishing company called Business International (BI). He was the company’s Czechoslovakia expert and with his Czech minder Arnold he travelled to Prague and other cities to report on significant economic and political developments.


    In 2021, he published “Čas Proměn” (“Time of Changes”), written in Czech, it is a collection of stories about Central and Eastern Europe in the 1980s and early ‘90s.


    Over the Christmas 2021 holidays, as he was visiting family in Ohio, he received a surprise email from a Czech academic. He was writing to Mark that he had finished reading the book and that he liked it. But then he added, cryptically, that Mark might want to revise part of it for future editions as he had found Mark’s Czechoslovak secret police surveillance file…


    We hear about the plans the Czechoslovak secret police had for Mark and the secret of Operation Oheň, aka Operation Fire.

    0:00 Introduction to Mark Baker's story

    2:40 Mark's journey as a journalist in Czechoslovakia

    5:59 Discovering Arnold's collaboration with the secret police and Mark's own surveillance file

    14:14 Reflection on the photographs from Mark's surveillance file

    19:45 Decoding the secret language and understanding the code names in the file

    24:01 Unveiling Mark's first appearance on the secret police radar

    44:15 Mark Baker: Operation Ohen and the infiltration of US Embassies

    45:00 Changes after the fall of the Berlin Wall and end of STB operations

    48:59 Ian Sanders: Closing remarks, reminders and invitation to join the discussion group

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    Now if you think there is a vast army of research assistants, audio engineers and producers putting together this podcast you’d be wrong. This podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to everyone for free.


    If you’d like to help to preserve Cold War history and enable me to continue to produce this podcast you can via one off or monthly donations.


    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/for more details.


    Listen to mark's previous episode here https://pod.fo/e/f83f

    Mark's blog is available here. https://markbakerprague.com/part-1-introducing-our-man-inter



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    A Cold War escape from Czechoslovakia (279) Feb 25, 2023

    We return to Dirk’s story from episode 278 with a move to East Berlin following his mother’s divorce from his father.


    Dirk finds school life more relaxed where pupils are allowed to wear Western clothing and to speak more openly, even questioning their teachers about the existence of the Berlin Wall.


    After leaving school, Dirk starts work in a factory from which he can see into West Berlin and he longs for a life away from the restrictions of East Germany.


    His mother’s new partner is a conscripted border guard who advises him not to attempt an escape over the Wall.


    However, as East Germany starts to implode in November 1989 Dirks sees a chance to escape…


    We also hear of his and his family’s life in the new Germany where at school reunions the children of Stasi families reveal their secrets and his mother sees the contents of her Stasi file.

    0:00 Introduction and Dirk's life in East Berlin

    7:24 Dirk's career and encounters with international leaders

    15:33 Dirk's changing perspectives on East Germany and life near the Berlin Wall

    20:06 The risks of escaping East Germany and Dirk's involvement in 1989 demonstrations

    24:18 Dirk's escape to West Germany

    30:32 Arrival in West Germany and the reunion with his mother

    36:43 The adjustment to the reunification of Germany

    39:59 Post-reunification life and Dirk's connections with school friends

    42:17 Discoveries from Stasi files and the impact on Dirk's family

    44:53 Closing remarks and promotion of episode extras

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    Dirk's previous episode https://coldwarconversations.com/episode278/


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode279


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Growing up in the Stasi town (278) Feb 18, 2023

    Dirk lived in the town of Bernau about 15 miles from East Berlin. Just outside Bernau was Wandlitz the residential estate of the East German leadership. As a result, Bernau had one of the highest densities of Stasi facilities in East Germany.


    Dirk shares details of his childhood growing up in a Plattenbau block of flats where his school friends were children of NVA officers, Stasi officers, and Soviet Army officers.


    He shares some fascinating details of school life and visits the homes of his school friends in Bernau. However, his parents clashed with his school teachers as they bullied Dirk for wearing western clothing.


    We also hear how his parent's anti-soviet view originated with his grandparents fleeing the World War 2 Soviet invasion of East Prussia and an Uncle who was arrested and disappeared in Berlin in 1945.

    0:00 Introduction and Dirk's early life in East Germany

    8:45 Impact of the Berlin Wall on Dirk's family and visits from West German relatives

    16:22 Confrontations with teachers over Western influences and passive resistance to East German authorities

    22:36 Discretion about Western influences and maintaining friendships with children of East German and Soviet army officers

    27:38 Visiting the homes of Russian friends and experiences with Russian conscripts

    35:21 Treatment of Soviet conscripts as observed by British troops and daily life amidst the Soviet and East German armies

    41:09 Hidden bunkers, bases in East Germany, and Stasi surveillance of Dirk's family

    45:01 Discussion about escaping East Germany and family visits to West Germany

    47:06 Preview of Dirk's story in the next episode and acknowledgments

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Videos and extra episode info here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode278


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    The most damaging female spy in US history (277) Feb 11, 2023

    Ana Montes was the most damaging female spy in US history.

    For nearly 17 years, Montes was one of the government's top Cuba experts, with easy access to classified documents. By night, she was working for Fidel Castro's Cuba, listening to coded messages over shortwave radio, passing US secrets to handlers in local restaurants, and slipping into Havana wearing a wig.


    Her only sister, Lucy, worked for the FBI helping the FBI flush Cuban spies out of the United States. Little did Lucy or her family know that the greatest Cuban spy of all was sitting right next to them at Thanksgivings, baptisms, and weddings.


    I speak with investigative journalist Jim Popkin whose book Code Name Blue Wren, weaves the tale of two sisters who chose two very different paths and reveals the making of a traitor- a woman labelled "one of the most damaging spies in U.S. history" by America's top counter-intelligence official.


    After more than two decades in federal prison, Montes was freed in January 2023.


    0:00 Introduction to Anna Montes and her spying activities

    10:15 Anna Montes' radicalization and move to Washington

    18:10 Anna's trip to Cuba and her spy training

    26:12 Anna's entry into the DIA and her unique method of passing information

    33:14 Anna's communication methods with Cuba and her siblings joining the FBI

    42:01 Colleagues' perception of Anna and her personality changes

    49:37 The FBI's success in Cuban counterintelligence operations and suspicions about Anna

    54:42 Agent S's identity and the investigation into Agent S

    1:02:19 Building the case against Ana Montes and the evidence found

    1:07:20 Ana Montes' promotion, arrest, and prosecution

    1:15:22 Anna Montes' unapologetic stance and her sentence

    1:18:08 Jim's book: Code Name Blue Ren

    1:19:07 Cold War Conversations Facebook Group and store promotions

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Buy the book here https://amzn.to/3l9s47k


    Episodes mentioned

    Number stations https://coldwarconversations.com/episode239/


    Photos and videos relating to this episode https://coldwarconversations.com/episode277/


    The battle to preserve Cold War history is ongoing and your support can provide me with the ammunition to continue to keep this podcast on the air. Via a simple monthly donation, you’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    The 1989 US Invasion of Panama & the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre (276) Feb 08, 2023

    Every weekday on the History Daily podcast, Lindsay Graham takes you back in time to explore a momentous moment that happened ‘on this day’ in history.



    1989 was a pivotal year for the Cold War. The fall of the Berlin Wall, free elections in Poland, and the almost bloodless revolutions in the other Warsaw Pact countries apart from Romania.



    However, two other important events occurred in 1989 and this bonus episode will cover those events.



    So here is the 1989 US Invasion of Panama and the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre courtesy of our friends at History Daily. Just search History Daily in your podcast app for further episodes. https://www.historydaily.com/



    We have two full episodes for you.



    1989 US Invasion of Panama


    December 20, 1989. President George H.W. Bush launches a US invasion of Panama to depose the country's dictator, and former CIA informant, Manuel Noriega.



    The Tiananmen Square Massacre



    June 3, 1989. In a bloody government crackdown on dissent, Chinese troops storm Beijing's Tiananmen Square and open fire on a pro-democracy demonstration, killing hundreds of unarmed civilians.


    Related videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode276/



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Missile away, missile away! - A Cold War US Peacekeeper nuclear missile launch officer (275) Feb 04, 2023

    Tim Lyon was an officer assigned to the 400th Strategic Missile Squadron located in Cheyenne Wyoming. The Squadron was maintained 50 Peacekeeper ICBM missiles based in underground silos in farmers’ fields in remote areas of Wyoming.


    Tim was one of two launch officers who were responsible for 10 of these missiles. He and his colleague would descend forty to sixty feet below ground to a concrete capsule that housed the Launch Control Centre. There he would spend 24-hour alerts ready to launch 100 nuclear warheads — each with twenty times the explosive force of the Hiroshima bomb at speeds of 15,000 mph.


    We hear in detail about his training, the testing procedures, security, and how he handled such a huge responsibility. Tim also describes launching one of these missiles from a test site in the US.


    Episodes mentioned:

    Commanding a Royal Navy Polaris Nuclear Missile Submarine https://coldwarconversations.com/episode168/



    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode275/




    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Red Elvis on tour, aka Dean Reed the US Cold War music star (274) Jan 28, 2023

    Warning: This episode does cover the subject of suicide. If you need help please use these links:

    • UK https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
    • Rest of the World https://findahelpline.com/i/iasp


    Dean Reed was an American actor, singer and songwriter, director, and Socialist who became a huge star in Latin America and the Eastern Bloc.

    Neil Jacobs is a guitarist who first met Dean Reed briefly while renting accommodation from Will Roberts, who directed the documentary of Dean Reed called “American Rebel”.

    Neil served on the US Cultural Delegation to the Moscow World Youth Festival in 1985 and unlike most of the participants, he was assigned by the Soviets. I did not go through any of the screening processes that the American Delegation had undergone, and therefore has a unique perspective on the event. It was at this event he began his friendship with Dean Reed.

    Additionally, he traveled with Dean Reed extensively both in the US and in the Eastern Bloc from 1985 -1986 and was one of the last people to see him before his death.

    0:00 Introduction and Content Warning

    4:46 Neil's first meeting with Dean Reed and their friendship

    7:03 Filming and Screening of "American Rebel"

    11:26 Dean Reed's Mentoring and Support for Neil

    15:00 Dean Reed's experiences at the World Youth Festival

    20:18 Dean Reed's Relationship with Host, Ian Sanders

    24:44 Dean Reed's Struggle to Reestablish a Career in the US

    28:19 Dean Reed's Controversial Stance on the Berlin Wall

    32:46 Discussion on German Fascination with American Western Cowboy Culture

    41:21 Dean Reed's Unexpected Death and Speculations

    46:19 Mysterious Deaths of Celebrities in East Germany

    51:54 Fears and Speculations about Dean Reed's Death

    54:14 Impact of the Chernobyl Incident on Dean Reed's State of Mind

    55:06 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments to Supporters

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    Listen to our other Dean Reed episodes here

    https://coldwarconversations.com/episode97/

    https://coldwarconversations.com/episode98/


    The battle to preserve Cold War history is ongoing and your support can provide me with the ammunition to continue to keep this podcast on the air. Via a simple monthly donation, you’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Photos and videos relating to this episode https://coldwarconversations.com/episode274/



    Neil Jacobs web site https://www.neiljacobs.com/



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    The Bridge of Spies spy (273) Jan 21, 2023

    On 10 February 1962, Gary Powers, the American pilot whose U2 spy plane was shot down in Soviet airspace, was released on “The Bridge in Spies” in Berlin by his captors in exchange for one Colonel Rudolf Abel, aka Vilyam Fisher - one of the most extraordinary characters in the history of the Cold War.

    Born plain William Fisher in Newcastle upon Tyne, in the UK this British grammar schoolboy was the child of revolutionary parents who had fled tsarist oppression in Russia. Their son returned to his spiritual homeland, the newly formed Soviet Union, and became a spy, embarking on a mission to New York, where he ran the network that stole America's atomic secrets.

    In 1957, Willie's luck ran out and he was arrested and sentenced to thirty years in prison. Five years later, the USSR's regard for his talents was proven when they insisted on swapping him for Gary Powers.


    I speak with Vin Arthey, the author of “Abel. The true story of the spy they traded for Gary Powers” Vin Arthey has traced Willie's tale from the most unlikely of beginnings in Newcastle, to Moscow, the streets of New York, and back again, a story of Cold War espionage to rival anything in fiction.

    0:00 Introduction and discussion about Willie Fisher's spy work

    10:26 Willie Fisher's upbringing and education in England

    18:49 Fisher's move to Russia and his early years in Soviet society

    25:33 Fisher's entry and rise in the intelligence services

    38:41 Fisher's significant operations during the Great Patriotic War

    42:52 Fisher's training and espionage work in the US

    57:42 Fisher's capture, trial, and the role of his defense lawyer, Jim Donovan

    1:08:26 The spy exchange, Fisher's imprisonment, and contact with his family

    1:14:23 Fisher's life post-exchange in the Soviet Union and his role in the KGB

    1:19:15 Fisher's final moments and the KGB's surveillance of him

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    Buy the book here https://amzn.to/3D9di6B


    Episodes mentioned

    The Rosenberg’s https://coldwarconversations.com/episode184/

    Portland Spy Ring https://coldwarconversations.com/episode138/ https://coldwarconversations.com/episode139/


    The battle to preserve Cold War history is ongoing and your support can provide me with the ammunition to continue to keep this podcast on the air. Via a simple monthly donation, you’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Videos and further infor here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode273/


    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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    Two weddings and a teaching post in Cold War Berlin (272) Jan 14, 2023

    Marie-Claude Hawkes continues her story with her return to Berlin in 1985 as a French teaching assistant at the Havel School RAF Gatow, teaching French and taking part in school activities in West and East Berlin.

    Between September 86 and August 87 Marie-Claude was employed as a cartoonist for the Berlin Bulletin, the weekly magazine for the British Forces in Berlin.

    Marie Claude describes her experiences as a French citizen working for the British Army as well as the challenges of being a French civilian in Berlin marrying a British citizen.

    In February 1988 Marie-Claude started work as the Director of Extra-Mural Studies at 46 AEC (Army Education Corps), Smuts Barracks in Spandau.

    While organising various classes for service men/women and their ‘dependents’, she also provided interpreting and trips to East Berlin for various purposes, one illegal…

    It’s a fascinating view of Cold War Berlin from a perspective not heard before.


    7:14 Marie-Claude Hawkes' experiences in Berlin and role at the Harvard School

    14:39 Marie-Claude Hawkes' post-marriage life and career in the Army Education Corps

    17:28 Life in Berlin, cultural barriers, and infamous locations

    20:49 Marie-Claude Hawkes' role in the Education Center and adventures in East Berlin

    30:06 Unique rules and regulations of living in Berlin: 'Berlinology'

    33:37 Discussions on Berlin defense and encounters with Soviet officers

    38:53 Marie-Claude Hawkes' wedding and experience on the French military train

    46:26 Inquiry about Stasi files and reflections on being a part of history

    48:16 Sponsor: Episode extras and gratitude to financial supporters

    48:50 Closing remarks and preview of next episode

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Episodes mentioned:

    The Defence of RAF Gatow https://coldwarconversations.com/episode257/


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra info including photos, and videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode272/


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    The girl in a Cold War East German coal mine (271) Jan 07, 2023

    In 1981 Marie-Claude Hawkes was an 18-year-old living in Amiens, France when she embarked on a trip to East Germany looking for adventure…

    Among her experiences was working in a lignite coal mine. Lignite is considered the lowest rank of coal and the most harmful coal to human health but was a major fuel source for East German power stations.

    Marie-Claude travelled from Paris to Leipzig on an overnight train, staying at the International Youth Camp in Borna. From there she travelled every day to work in the open lignite mine at Espenhain, about 16 miles from Leipzig.

    She describes working at the mine, weekends off, visits to Leipzig, Magdeburg, Weimar, and a potato peeling factory...!

    It’s a fascinating view of East Germany away from the capital Berlin.


    0:00 Introduction and Mary Claude Hawkes' initial experiences in East Germany

    2:06 Sponsor: Promotion of Cold War Conversations and listener's testimonial

    4:51 Mary Claude Hawkes' journey to East Germany and arrival at the International Youth Camp

    13:43 Work and life in the International Youth Camp

    22:37 Leisure time: visits to Leipzig and after-work activities

    25:51 Travel experiences and evening entertainment in East Germany

    29:01 Political experiences and visits to various factories

    33:11 Working conditions and run-in with authorities

    40:01 Impressions of Magdeburg and East Berlin

    44:13 Return to Paris and plans for future visits to Berlin

    45:23 Sponsor: Thanks to financial supporters and invitation to join the Facebook Discussion Group

    46:19 Closing remarks and mention of the Cold War Conversations store

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.



    Check out the episode related photos and videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode271/


    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/

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    In conversation with 7 BRIXMIS veterans - Part 2 (270) Jan 04, 2023

    Part 2, of a two part recording.


    Part 1 is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode268


    In October of 2022, I was asked by the West Pennines Military Vehicle Trust to moderate a Q&A session with a number of BRIXMIS veterans.


    Attending were Drivers Neil Walton, Pete Curran, Dave Collins and Kev Smith, plus Sandy Saxton-Warne (Joint operations & weapons) , Mike Hill (Tour officer), Mike Corcoran (Weapons), and Dave Butler (Senior Non Commissioned Officer, Tourer).

    It was an amazing afternoon of reminiscing about their experiences and viewing the amazing collections they had from that time.

    My good friend Colin Dyter was a massive help with the recording, but a quick note that the audio is not up to the usual quality of Cold War Conversations, due to background noise, but I think the events and activities described definitely make it worth listening to.

    0:00 Introduction and background on the episode's guests

    2:15 BRIXMIS veterans and their stories

    6:44 Importance of safeguarding sensitive equipment and intelligence gathering

    14:52 Identifying and tracking Soviet equipment

    24:06 Scavenging procedures and notable discoveries

    30:22 Operation Tomahawk and the risks of tour driving

    39:35 Confrontations with Russians and successful escapes

    46:17 Use of maps and marking points of interest in the Cold War

    58:10 Collecting memorabilia and living conditions in the DDR

    1:02:14 Closing remarks and episode extras

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.




    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode270



    Support the show




    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Able Archer - The military exercise that almost started World War 3 - a look in the archives (269) Dec 31, 2022

    In 1986 Soviet Leader Mikhail Gorbachev said “Never perhaps, in the post-war decades has the situation in the world been explosive and hence more difficult and unfavourable as in the first half of the 1980s. “

    He was referring to a period of immense tension between the Soviet Union and NATO when in 1983 a NATO exercise called Able Archer was believed to have almost accidentally started World War 3.


    We delve into the Able Archer archives to talk about the most recent documents with Francesca Akhtar, a researcher whose main research interests are US Cold War foreign policy, intelligence history and defence.


    Francesca has written a dissertation entitled “The most dangerous Soviet-American confrontation since the Cuban Missile Crisis?” An analysis of the origins, nature, and impact of the Able Archer 83 incident.

    0:00 Introduction and context about Able Archer

    1:07 Overview of Able Archer and its potential to start World War 3

    2:15 Sponsor message and call for donations

    3:19 The changes in Able Archer in 1983 and misconceptions

    6:51 Context of shooting down of Korean airliner in 1983 and comparison with the Cuba missile crisis

    10:31 Status of UK archives on Able Archer and challenges in obtaining information

    14:11 Discussion on the cancellation of Able Archer in 1990 and continuation despite potential misunderstandings

    21:11 Introduction to the revealing documents in the February state department release and discussion on Perroots' letter

    32:11 The letter that sparked an investigation and possible preemptive strike

    35:03 Post-exercise NSA message, Soviet readiness, and criticism of US intelligence

    41:17 Soviet side and access to information and concluding remarks on the Cold War scare

    47:16 Acknowledgement of the episode extras and appreciation of financial supporters

    48:30 Closing remarks and promotion of the Cold War Conversations store

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Regular listeners will remember that Francesca talked about Able Archer 83 previously in Episode 19.


    The battle to preserve Cold War history is ongoing and your support can provide me with the ammunition to continue to keep this podcast on the air. Via a simple monthly donation, you’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    View the actual Able Archer intelligence briefing documents here as well as videos, and extra information https://coldwarconversations.com/episode269/



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    In conversation with 7 BRIXMIS veterans - Part 1 (268) Dec 28, 2022

    In October of 2022, I was asked by the West Pennines Military Vehicle Trust to moderate a Q&A session with a number of BRIXMIS veterans.


    Part 2 is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode270


    Attending were Drivers Neil Walton, Pete Curran, Dave Collins and Kev Smith, plus Sandy Saxton-Warne (Joint operations & weapons) , Mike Hill (Tour officer), Mike Corcoran (Weapons), and Dave Butler (Senior Non Commissioned Officer, Tourer).

    It was an amazing afternoon of reminiscing about their experiences and viewing the amazing collections they had from that time. Don’t miss part 2 which follows next week.

    My good friend Colin Dyter was a massive help with the recording, but a quick note that the audio is not up to the usual quality of Cold War Conversations, due to background noise, but I think the events and activities described definitely make it worth listening to.

    0:00 Introduction and story from Dave Collins

    5:25 Dave Collins recounts the night the wall came down

    8:47 Neil Walton talks about their communication system and shares stories of challenging situations

    15:41 Monitoring equipment and weapon remnants in East Germany

    21:21 An encounter with the MFS during a tour

    28:20 Discussion about different units and experiences in the army

    39:04 Understanding 'tarpology' and recognizing Soviet equipment

    44:35 Special permits and fast driving experiences

    54:04 Using thermal imaging in the Cold War

    1:01:14 Cliffhanger - The discovery about the missile

    1:01:42 Acknowledgement of financial supporters and call for donations

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Episode notes herehttps://coldwarconversations.com/episode268


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    Home Bases: Memories & Stories of US Military Bases in the UK (267) Dec 24, 2022

    Sean Kelly is the author of Home Bases: Memories & Stories of US Military Bases Around London which for the first time, puts the spotlight on the history of many of the US Military’s lesser-known command and support bases that were located either in or close to London.


    The bases (often known as ‘Little Americas’) are furthermore brought to life in a series of ‘snapshot’ memories. We hear about the heroism of US personnel who were awarded the George Medal for bravery in rescuing people caught in the great floods of 1953 as well as including actor Larry Hagman who played JR Ewing in the TV series Dallas.

    We talk about the memories of bases further afield such as Upper Heyford, Greenham Common, Sculthorpe, and Burtonwood.


    0:00 Introduction and background of Sean Kelly

    1:59 Sponsor: Call for donations

    2:23 Guest Introduction: Sean Kelly

    7:38 Sean Kelly's book "Home Bases" and the history of US military bases in London

    15:20 Personal stories from US military bases

    28:31 Transformation and current state of Greenham Common

    34:11 Personal anecdotes from those who served on the bases

    48:54 The peak of the Cold War in the UK and discussion about the Burtonwood base

    58:24 The special relationship between the UK and the US and the importance of personal stories in understanding history

    1:02:30 Where to Find Sean Kelly's Book and Contact Information

    1:06:22 Podcast Extras and Support Information

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Buy the book here https://amzn.to/3V8959o


    The battle to preserve Cold War history is ongoing and your support can provide me with the ammunition to continue to keep this podcast on the air. Via a simple monthly donation, you’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    I am delighted to welcome Sean Kelly to our Cold War conversation…



    Sean's websites

    Home Bases https://www.facebook.com/ushomebases

    7 North Audley https://www.facebook.com/7NorthAudley


    Episodes referred to:

    Greenham Common https://coldwarconversations.com/episode18/

    Burtonwood https://coldwarconversations.com/episode74/

    Upper Heyford https://coldwarconversations.com/episode65/


    Further episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode267/


    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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    Cold War Chieftain tank deployment at the East German Border (266) Dec 17, 2022

    We’re back with Alan Hodges, a Royal Tank Regiment Chieftain tank commander, and Mick Hadfield who was his 17-year-old gunner.


    In this episode we talk in detail about their deployment within a kilometer of the East German border and their tasks should H Hour have come as well as emergency deployment from barracks.


    There is no affection for their main training area at Soltau described as “the moon with a few trees and also in less polite terms. However, these training periods are made better by the regular appearance of Wolfgang, a German entrepreneur and British Army legend who was uncannily able to place his snack vans whenever the British Army deployed.


    We also hear how the crew was also trained on how to evacuate the tank if it was hit as well as how to evade capture and resist interrogation.


    It’s anecdotes galore again including a visit from a Swedish Major who unwisely was given the chance to drive Chieftain.


    There’s also sadness as we remember those that never came back from exercises due to accidents. It’s the continuing story of the close bond that soldiers forge that still lasts to this day.


    0:00 Introduction

    2:37 Discussion of training procedures and deployment strategies

    6:20 Recollection of training exercises and potential war scenarios

    12:39 Experiences and preparations for potential emergency situations

    19:17 Experiences with escape and evasion exercises

    23:50 Reflections on Exercise Lionheart and Soltau training area

    29:51 Discussion of casualties of Cold War training exercises

    34:48 Reflections on the seriousness of training and camaraderie developed during service

    44:47 Maintaining focus and motivation during training and visits to both sides of Berlin

    49:17 Discussion about Cold War literature and potential film creation

    51:14 Reality of military life and benefits of being stationed in Germany

    54:02 Social activities in Germany and episode wrap-up

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra videos and photos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode266/


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Crewing the Cold War Chieftain tank (265) Dec 10, 2022

    Alan Hodges was a Royal Tank Regiment Chieftain tank commander and troop SGT in West Germany. Mick Hadfield was his 17-year-old gunner. The affection between the two is still apparent even today and Mick still calls Al his army Dad.


    Mick met Al in 1987 straight out of his armoured corp gunnery training at Catterick. They served for 3 years together in 1st Royal Tank Regiment in Hildesheim from August 87 to December 90.


    They share detailed insights into the operations of the Chieftain, the training, the camaraderie of a crew as well as important details like how you go the loo in a tank..


    As part of 1st Royal Tank Regiment they were at the time (the most forward-facing Tank unit in BAOR and given a 2-hour life expectancy. They were told that if the Soviet 3rd Shock army crossed the border, each Chieftain would have to knock out a minimum of 10 Soviet tanks before they got overrun.

    0:00 Introduction

    4:07 Mick's journey into the army and Al's family military background

    10:04 Experiences with the Chieftain Mark 2 tank and its components

    16:40 Structure of the tank regiment and regional recruitment

    23:59 Training process for the Chieftain crew and simulation experiences

    34:06 Cold War threat discussion and ammunition types

    42:49 Physical experience of being in a tank and recalling incidents

    47:25 Reality of fighting in AFVs and potential for motion sickness in a tank

    57:04 Relationship between a crew and their tank, tuning for performance

    1:02:40 Knowledge of the battleground and teaser for the next episode

    1:03:30 Closing remarks and invitation to the Facebook discussion group

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Extra videos and photos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode265/




    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    How East Germany doped its athletes (264) Dec 03, 2022

    In the early 1970s, the athletes of East Germany started to achieve incredible sports results, winning medals and setting new world records with astonishing frequency. For many years, their sporting supremacy was hailed as a triumph of the socialist government's commitment to scientific research and innovative training methods.



    However, after the Cold War ended, the Stasi archives revealed a sinister secret behind the successes: a perverse doping system imposed by the government itself. Drugs were administered to young athletes, often without their consent, and the price their bodies are now paying is very high, both physically and mentally.


    I talk with Joseph Tudor, whose new book Synthetic Medals reveals the events that led to the discovery of the state-doping system and the subsequent trial. It also explores the state's motives for this crime against its own people.


    0:00 Introduction and Joseph Tudor's perspective on East German doping

    2:04 Sponsor: Call to support the Cold War Conversations podcast

    4:12 East Germany's adoption of artificial methods to enhance athletes' performance

    10:43 Unveiling the East German 'athlete machine'

    17:47 The International Olympic Committee's suspicions about East Germany's success

    21:44 Prevalence and detection of doping in East German sports

    26:05 Resistance and consequences against Stasi's involvement in sports

    31:49 Discovery of State Plan 14.25, East Germany's state doping program

    34:03 Legal challenges surrounding East Germany's doping program

    38:39 The devastating side effects of doping drugs on athletes

    45:30 Legacy of East German athletic success and the role of doping

    52:37 Athletes returning their medals due to guilt of doping

    56:13 Sponsor: Promotion of the book 'Synthetic Medals: East German Athlete's Journey to Hell'

    57:05 Closing remarks and promotion of the Cold War Conversations store

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Extra episode info here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode264/


    Buy the book here https://amzn.to/3gVZbtI and support the podcast.


    ==========================================================

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    ==========================================================



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    The building of the Berlin Wall (263) Nov 26, 2022

    From the moment East Germany was formed in 1949, many of its citizens chose to leave to start a new life in the West. By the mid-1950s, the trickle had turned into a flood as large numbers rejected Walter Ulbricht’s Communist paradise. His ‘Workers’ & Peasants’ State’ could not afford to lose the skills and productivity of these key workers, so he proposed a radical solution - to physically fence in the whole population.

    I speak with Andrew Long, the author of a series of books about Cold War Berlin as we explore the background and build-up to the building of the Berlin Wall, from the closing of the Inner German border to the momentous events of August 1961.


    We examine in detail how Operation Rose, the operation to close the border between East and West Berlin, was planned and executed and look at how the West reacted.


    0:00 Introduction

    1:04 Formation and Exodus of East Germany

    7:51 Dissent and Exodus in East Germany

    15:39 The Unique Situation in Berlin and the Establishment of Air Corridors

    18:11 Khrushchev's Ultimatum and the Role of Nuclear Deterrence

    24:16 Arrival of JFK and the Renewed Ultimatum

    33:27 Operation Rose and the Planning for the Berlin Wall

    47:08 Situation at Checkpoint Charlie and Allies' Response

    56:43 Propaganda and Defection Post-Border Closure

    1:07:30 Rules of Engagement and Fortification of the Berlin Wall

    1:11:23 Acknowledgement of Financial Supporters and Donation Call to Action

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Extra episode info here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode263/


    Buy Andrew's books here https://amzn.to/3hI6N2Y and support the podcast.


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Photos and video extra here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode263/


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    Guarding Rudolf Hess, Hitler's Deputy Führer (262) Nov 19, 2022

    Dave Phillips is a Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London. The Yeoman Warders have been guarding the Tower since Tudor times.


    Dave joined the British Army aged 16 into the Royal Irish Rangers. We hear of his early years in the Army in Northern Ireland and his posting to West Berlin.


    In West Berlin Dave is part of the force that guarded Rudolf Hess, a leading member of the Nazi Party in Nazi Germany and appointed Deputy Führer to Adolf Hitler in 1933.


    On 10 May 1941, Hess made a solo flight to Scotland, where he hoped to arrange peace talks with the British. He was arrested and stood trial at the 1946 Nuremberg trials of major war criminals. The court convicted him of crimes against peace and of conspiracy with other German leaders to commit crimes and was given a life sentence in Berlin’s Spandau Prison.


    Dave describes interactions with Hess, as well as the guard duties and operation of the prison.


    0:00 Introduction and Dave Phillips' early experiences in Berlin

    1:04 The story of Rudolph Hess and his arrest

    6:16 Dave's experiences in Berlin and Spandau Prison

    15:38 A typical day for Hess in Spandau Prison and guarding duties

    24:56 Hess's time at the Tower of London and conversations with him

    28:59 Military training in Berlin and preparations for a potential invasion

    36:00 Interaction with other occupying forces and West Berlin locals

    39:44 Dave's return to Berlin years later and reminiscing about the fall of the Berlin Wall

    45:16 Career progression, service in Northern Ireland and UN Peacekeeping

    49:22 Dave's current role as a Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London

    52:54 Financial support and donations

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping preserve Cold War history.


    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/


    If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Episode videos and photos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode262/


    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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    From Cold War military drone development, to the deployment and command of the nuclear armed Ground Launched Cruise Missiles (GLCM) in Europe (261) Nov 12, 2022

    We continue the story of Richard Stachurski from the previous episode. Part 1 is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode260


    In 1971 Richard left NASA and was assigned to the Drone/Remotely Piloted Vehicle Systems Program Office at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.


    From 1975-1978 Richard did a tour of duty with the Air Staff at the Pentagon in Washington D.C. and between 1978-1981: he was Deputy Program Manager, Ground Launched Cruise Missile Program (GLCM) System Program Office-engaged in the adaptation of the Navy’s SLCM for use by the Air Force.


    In 1981 he was assigned to the staff at USAFE Headquarters (Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany) responsible for the deployment of the GLCM to five European countries (England, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, and Italy).


    Richard was then promoted in 1984 to Vice Commander, Commander, 487th Tactical Missile Wing, Comiso Air Station, Sicily where he was responsible for the missile wing's operational readiness, and his troops' welfare.


    0:00 Introduction and background of Richard Stachurski

    4:18 Rationale behind developing drone programs

    13:12 Design and manufacture of the missile launcher and control center

    17:34 Richard Stachurski's agreement to go to the Royal College of Defense Studies in London

    34:45 Initial impressions of Comiso Air Base and roles at the base

    41:10 Encounter with Russian special forces

    45:30 Dealing with peace protesters and security protocol

    46:49 The short-lived cruise missile program

    51:59 The significance of the Apollo 11 mission

    53:20 Cold War Conversations Store Promotion

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping preserve Cold War history.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/


    If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Episode notes and videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode261



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    Nuclear missile launch control and Mission Control for the NASA Apollo Moon Missions (260) Nov 05, 2022

    Richard Stachurski joined the US Air Force in 1962, on the cusp of the Cuban Missile Crisis as a security police officer guarding nuclear-armed B-58 Hustler bombers.


    Within two years he volunteered for the Minuteman nuclear missile program where he served as a Deputy Missile Combat Crew Commander with the 68th Strategic Missile Squadron at Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota. Richard was the junior officer on a two-man crew in a launch control capsule buried beneath the South Dakota prairie who was charged with monitoring the status and launching if necessary ten Minuteman ICBMs.


    In 1965 he was selected as one of 128 Air Force officers to be loaned to NASA to support the activation and operation of the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Texas. He worked his way up to being a Network Controller, who sat two consoles to the right of the Flight Director in the Mission Operations Control Room. He was responsible for all the ground systems that supported an Apollo mission and was selected as the lead Network Controller on Apollo 11 working on both the launch from Earth and the first-ever launch from the lunar surface.


    0:00 Introduction and Career Overview of Richard Stachurski

    2:33 Richard's Journey in the US Air Force and the Cuban Missile Crisis

    9:25 The Minuteman System and Life in the Bunker

    20:14 Launch Protocols and the Dynamics of Working as a Missileer

    27:03 Richard's Transition to NASA and his Role in Apollo 11

    34:29 Apollo 11 Launch Day, Landing, and Return to Earth

    44:43 Richard's Experiences during Apollo 13 and Subsequent Missions

    48:10 The Camaraderie and Humour in High-Stress Situations

    50:00 Acknowledgements and Promotion of the Cold War Conversations Online Store

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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. One-off donations are also welcome.


    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/


    Episode notes , inc photos and video here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode260/


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    Britain's 1980s Cold War Dads Army/Home Guard - The Home Service Force Oct 28, 2022

    The Home Service Force or HSF was UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher's Cold War version of the World War 2 Home Guard.


    An almost forgotten unit, the HSF was established in 1982 and recruited from ex-regular Army, ex-territorial and ex-uniformed service personnel aged up to 60 years old. Its mission was to guard key points in the UK as the perceived threat from Warsaw Pact special forces increased towards the end of the Cold War.


    I speak with Richard Coles, who served as an officer in the HSF Company of The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC). He tells of the setup of the unit, the incredible characters he served with and details some of the exercises that he participated in.


    0:00 Introduction and overview of the Home Service Force

    2:38 Richard Cole's background and establishment of the Home Service Force

    6:34 Recruitment and training process for the Home Service Force

    13:51 Role and perceived threats of the Home Service Force

    21:45 Diversity and roles within the Home Service Force members

    29:12 Memorable characters and experiences within the Home Service Force

    34:31 Career paths and attitudes towards promotion within the Home Service Force

    38:35 Various training exercises and anecdotes from the Home Service Force

    47:28 Disbandment of the Home Service Force and its irony

    51:44 Richard Cole's service in 2 HAC companies and reflections on the bond between old soldiers

    53:18 Sponsor: Episode extras, acknowledgements, and invitation to Facebook discussion group

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    The Cold War Conversation continues in our Facebook discussion group and on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping preserve Cold War history.


    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/


    If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    I am delighted to welcome Richard Coles to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode259


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    An aircraft hijack to escape from the Soviet Union (258) Oct 21, 2022

    Back in the 1970s, migrating from the Soviet Union was an unattainable dream for many, particularly Jews wanting to leave for Israel. To leave the Soviet Union for another country, it was necessary to obtain exit visas. In practice, many people found them impossible to get.


    On the morning of June 15, 1970, 16 Soviet Jews who had been refused exit visas appeared at Smolny Airport near Leningrad to hijack a plane. They posed as a group going to a wedding — hence the name of the operation.


    The plan devised a year before the attempted hijacking, was quite straightforward. The hijackers would target a small aeroplane and book all the seats on it. They would commandeer the aircraft and leave the pilots unharmed on the landing strip, while one of the conspirators would take control of the aeroplane and fly it to Sweden.


    I speak with filmmaker Anat Zalmanson-Kuznetsov whose film “Operation Wedding” reveals the compelling story of her parents, the leaders of the group.


    0:00 Introduction and background on Soviet Union migration

    7:22 The Struggle of Soviet Jews' Emigration

    11:16 The Origin and Execution of Operation Wedding

    17:03 The Arrests and Aftermath of Operation Wedding

    24:36 Prison Conditions and International Reaction

    30:17 Influences and Interventions: Golda Meir and Franco

    33:03 Soviet Restrictions on Emigration and Its Impact

    35:22 Release and Life Post-Prison for Anat's Parents

    40:52 The Making of the Film "Operation Wedding"

    42:49 Acknowledgement of Supporters and Closing Remarks

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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. One-off donations are also welcome.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    I am delighted to welcome Anat Zalmanson-Kuznetsov to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes and full film here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode258/


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Defending RAF Gatow - Britain's airbase in Cold War Berlin (257) Oct 14, 2022

    Trevor Howie’s role at RAF Gatow was advising the Station Commander on Station defence during times of war, tension or terrorist threat as well as the defence of 26 Signals Unit at the Teufelsberg listening post.


    RAF Gatow’s western side was located right against the Berlin Wall which was clearly visible from the control tower. Beyond the Wall was the Döberitz training area for the Soviet and East German Army.


    Soviet jets regularly overflew West Berlin emitting sonic booms to underline the immediate threat from their forces.


    To gain intelligence about the opposition Trevor used the resident De Havilland Chipmunk aircraft to see across the Wall and observe the neighbouring Soviet and East German forces. He describes the defence plans and exercises such as Exercise Grizzly Bear where every member of the air station would have played a part in its defence.


    Trevor vividly describes how he heard that the Wall had opened on 9th November 1989.


    It’s a fascinating view of British forces in Berlin and their plans should the Cold War have turned hot.


    0:00 Introduction and Trevor Howie's role at RAF Gatow

    3:53 The role and responsibilities of a station regiment officer

    8:21 The vulnerability of the base and the plan in case of an attack

    13:37 Life in Berlin during the Cold War

    19:50 Discovery of a Stasi spy on the base and introduction to British Services Security Organization

    23:50 Preparations for Exercise Grizzly Bear and the realization of the fall of the Berlin Wall

    31:24 Enhanced security measures post-fall of the wall

    37:27 Impact of the fall of the wall on Berliners and the beginning of the exit of Soviet forces

    43:10 Discovery of World War 2 ammunition and relics in the base

    46:10 Podcast extras, appreciation of financial supporters

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.


    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode257/

    Please leave a review.

    If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a written review.



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    Guarding Britain's nuclear weapons and RAF Akrotiri during the Cold War (256) Oct 07, 2022

    Following his RAF Regiment officer training Trevor Howie was posted to 34 Sqn at Raf Akrotiri in Cyprus, commanding C Flight. The RAF regiment was effectively the Royal Air Force’s infantry, providing ground defence for air operations.


    34 Sqn had a dual role of providing defence at Akrotiri and in the event of war at RAF Wildenrath in Germany.


    Trevor vividly describes his time at Akrotiri, including terrorist threats and realistic anti-riot training exercises the enthusiasm of the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders required a hospital ward to be kept available for casualties.


    In 1986 Trevor became involved in Nuclear Weapon Security training, where the training techniques he introduced were the subject of complaints. His service also includes stints at RAF Greenham Common where he describes providing support to the US nuclear-armed cruise missile deployment there.


    Don’t miss next week’s episode where Trevor is posted to RAF Gatow in West Berlin as the Station Regiment Officer, responsible for advising the Station Commander on how to defend the Station during times of war, tension or terrorist threat.


    0:00 Introduction and brief about Trevor Howie's role during the Cold War

    2:31 Trevor Howie's training and role in Cyprus

    14:17 Description of weaponry and tactics used during the Cold War

    22:30 Potential terrorist incident and precautions taken

    30:04 Security and transportation of Britain's nuclear weapons

    35:43 Evolution of military readiness and training for competence

    42:15 Use and criticism of physical punishment in military training

    46:08 Transforming challenges into rewarding experiences during training

    48:03 Role in protecting cruise missiles at Greenham Common

    54:24 Conclusion: Episode extras and thanking financial supporters

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    The 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis with Sir Max Hastings (255) Sep 30, 2022

    The 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis is reckoned to be one of the most perilous events in history, when the World faced a looming nuclear collision between the United States and Soviet Union. During those weeks, the world gazed into the abyss of potential annihilation.

    I speak with Sir Max Hastings whose new history Abyss: The Cuban Missile Crisis 1962 tells the story from the viewpoints of national leaders, Russian officers, Cuban peasants, American pilots and British disarmers. The period is brought to life with eye-witness interviews, archive documents and diaries, White House tape recordings, and top-down analysis. More than purely a focus on the 13 days of the crisis, the book provides context through the Cold War experiences of Fidel Castro’s Cuba, Nikita Khrushchev’s Russia, and Kennedy’s America.

    Among the areas we discuss are how Cuba became a crisis, the failure of intelligence on both sides, and those nail-biting Thirteen Days in which Armageddon beckoned.

    Buy the book and support the podcast https://amzn.to/3rlPLsM

    0:00 Introduction and discussion on the Cuban missile crisis

    7:35 Examination of the decision-making approaches during the Cuban Missile Crisis

    15:07 Analysis of Jack Kennedy's political considerations and the missile gap myth

    25:58 Comparison of Nikita Khrushchev's wisdom and Putin's actions in Ukraine

    33:30 Analysis of fear's role in decision-making during the Cuban missile crisis

    40:29 Discussion on the portrayal of military leaders in the Cold War

    43:05 Exploration of communication failures and the impact of technology during crises

    48:08 Cultural context and perspectives of the missile crisis era

    52:10 Personal memories and humor in the face of the missile crisis

    57:05 Conclusion and details about Max Hastings' book, "Abyss"

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    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode255/

    Please leave a review.

    If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a written review.



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    “Houston, we’ve had a problem” interview with Fred Haise, Apollo 13 astronaut (254) Sep 23, 2022

    Fred Haise was one of the three astronauts on the ill-fated Moon mission when a design fault caused an oxygen tank to explode mid-mission putting the Apollo 13 crew in mortal danger on April 13th, 1970. This was the seventh crewed mission in the Apollo space program and the third meant to land on the Moon.

    Now as you can imagine I’m genuinely excited to be speaking with one of the Apollo astronauts. Fred and I talk about his life and his almost accidental entry into flying. We cover his admission into the astronaut programme, the family impact, and as you can imagine go into some detail about his experiences on the Apollo 13 mission.

    Many of you will know of this mission via the Film “Apollo 13” starring Tom Hanks, and Fred shares his views on the film and corrects some of the inaccuracies.


    Buy Fred's new book Never Panic Early: An Apollo 13 Astronaut's Journey and support the podcast here https://amzn.to/3DvCRzN

    0:00 Introduction

    6:14 Fred Haise's journey to becoming an astronaut and role in Apollo 11

    16:39 Selection and preparation for Apollo 13 mission

    32:41 The Apollo 13 crisis: the explosion, aftermath, and survival

    51:21 Critical maneuvers to correct trajectory back to Earth

    1:03:42 Activation of the command module and return journey

    1:11:12 Splashdown and immediate aftermath

    1:18:48 Analysis of Apollo 13 film and Fred Haise's book 'Never Panic Early'

    1:25:17 Episode extras, acknowledgment of financial supporters, and closing remarks

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

    I am delighted to welcome Fred Haise to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode254

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    All audio/video/photos courtesy of NASA.


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    An 18 year old US Military Policeman in Cold War West Berlin (253) Sep 16, 2022

    Richard Blevins enlisted aged 18 in the US Army in March of 1987. He completed Basic Training & Military Police School training in July of 1987 and was posted to West Berlin as a United States Military Policeman.

    He describes his selection for Berlin duty while at Rhine-Main AFB in Frankfurt and his first journey across East Germany on the US Duty train to West Berlin.

    Richard’s first year consisted of patrol duties and combat training as well as serving at Checkpoints Bravo and Charlie as the assistant to the Non-commissioned Officer in Charge.

    He also got selected as a traffic accident investigator in 1988 where he would patrol with the West Berlin Police and respond to all car accidents involving US military, dependents, and civilian workers as well as West German nationals.

    Richard also describes how he heard the news on November 8th, 1989, that Erich Honecker had lifted all travel restrictions on East Germans starting at midnight.

    He is a close friend of Michael Rafferty who appeared in episode 13 with his account of the last days of Checkpoint Charlie. Don’t miss Michael’s video of 1980s Berlin in the episode notes.

    0:00 Introduction with Richard Blevins

    5:00 Richard's journey to Berlin and first encounter with Soviet troops

    15:00 Contrasting West and East Berlin and living conditions

    25:00 Richard's assignment to 3rd platoon: Patrol duties, training, and interactions with Royal Military Police

    35:00 Liaising with Soviets and training with British units

    45:00 Duties at checkpoints Bravo and Charlie

    55:00 Living near the Berlin Wall and its transformation post-fall

    1:05:00 Friendship with Michael Rafferty and plans to revisit Berlin

    1:10:00 Security measures for soldiers and interactions with locals

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 Richard Blevins to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode253

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    A trip across Central Europe on a East German MZ motorbike (252) Sep 09, 2022

    MZ was an East German motorcycle manufacturer located in Zschopau, Saxony. The acronym MZ stands for Motorenwerke Zschopau GmbH (German for Zschopau engine factory).


    In the 1980s MZ was regarded by the British motorcycle press as producing ugly and old-fashioned (if worthy) motorcycles however, there was a hard-core set of UK fans who loved this relatively, cheap and easy-to-repair bike.


    Julian Howe was a big fan of the MZ bike. He tells of a bizarre honeymoon of fellow MZ club members which involved MZ bike fans from across the UK touring Western Europe and the Warsaw Pact Countries.


    From sharing drinks with border guards to being on the receiving end of CS gas in Krakow it’s a tour through late 1980s Europe on the back of a two-stroke MZ motorbike.


    0:00 Introduction and background on MZ motorcycles

    1:21 Call for donations and testimonial from a supporter

    5:28 The journey begins - crossing the border into East Germany

    11:26 Interaction with an East German border guard and reflections on environment

    15:20 Entering Poland and experiences with locals

    22:19 Crossing through Czechoslovakia into Hungary and visit to a private museum

    26:12 Visit to Prague and interactions with locals

    29:37 Return journey through East Germany and humorous encounter at the border

    33:47 Julian's most memorable experience from his trip and favorite media recommendations

    38:29 Closing remarks and appreciation for financial supporters

    39:02 Encouragement to join the Facebook group and continue the conversation

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 Julian Howe to our Cold War conversation…


    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode252


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    Imprisoned in a Soviet Military gaol - a BRIXMIS officer's diary Pt 2 (251) Sep 02, 2022

    This is the 2nd part of my interview with Lt Col. Stephen Harrison, MBE who served for two years as a full-time Touring Officer with BRIXMIS. The tours were hazardous three-man, vehicle-borne patrols collecting intelligence on the Warsaw Pact forces in East Germany for up to five days and nights over a series of four-month patrolling periods.

    In this episode, we hear of Stephen’s imprisonment in a Soviet Army gaol, following detention in a Soviet Army garrison town as well as East German and Soviet Army press coverage about his activities.

    Stephen’s speciality was using his language skills to engage and befriend opposition troops and thereby gaining valuable intelligence. He used to go into bars frequented by Soviet officers and recalls one particular drunken night in Potsdam..

    We also hear about his visit to the infamous World War 2 prison camp of Colditz castle where he befriends the staff enabling other BRIXMIS tours to visit regularly.

    Stephen also shares details of the top-secret Operation Tomahawk, a particularly unpleasant mission which may not be for those of a sensitive disposition.

    In later years Stephen obtained his Stasi file which reveals that the surveillance on him was far closer than he’d ever believed.


    0:00 Introduction and Stephen Harrison's role in BRIXMIS

    10:21 Stephen's arrest and time in a Soviet military cell

    15:48 Stephen's role as interpreter and socializing with Soviet officers

    22:53 Stephen's experiences during town and cultural tours

    27:38 Stephen's Stasi files and the accuracy of their reports

    33:25 Stephen's work and dealing with detentions

    38:49 Operation Tomahawk: Exploiting Soviet military rubbish tips

    47:57 Reflecting on the human side of intelligence gathering

    49:45 Podcast end notes, acknowledgments and donation information

    50:15 Invitation to join the Cold War Conversations Facebook group

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 Stephen to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode251/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    There is nothing like hearing history from those that were there...


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    Arrested 11 times, plus 3 shooting incidents - a BRIXMIS officer's diary Pt 1 (250) Aug 26, 2022

    Lt Col. Stephen Harrison, MBE served for two years as a full-time Touring Officer with BRIXMIS. These Tours were hazardous three man, vehicle-borne patrols collecting intelligence on the Warsaw Pact forces in East Germany for up to five days and nights over a series of four-month patrolling periods.

    They lived in the field and did not carry weapons while Soviet and East German troops were nearly always armed, and their ever-present sentries carried live ammunition. The Tours operated in the closest proximity to these hostile and aggressive Warsaw Pact troops whose orders permitted them to use whatever force necessary, including opening fire, to protect the property they are guarding.

    We hear in detail about Stephen’s experiences in these demanding and frequently dangerous situations, as well as how he used his language skills to engage and befriend opposition troops gaining valuable intelligence which made him a particular threat to the Soviets.

    Don’t miss part 2 here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode251/

    0:00 Introduction and Background of Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Harrison

    2:19 How to Donate to Cold War Conversations

    5:27 Stephen's Experiences and Roles During the Cold War

    15:05 Techniques and Strategies Used on Tours

    23:14 Emergency Situations and Adaptations During Tours

    30:10 Interactions with East German Population and Soviet Troops

    41:13 Encounter with Soviet Air Defense System and Other Incidents

    47:39 Reflections on Risk-Taking during Operations

    47:58 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements of Financial Supporters

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 Stephen to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode250/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Life in the forbidden zone at the East/West German border (249) Aug 19, 2022

    A young Claudia Bierschenk lived at the edge of a world called the GDR, in a village surrounded by hills, valleys and thick forests.

    Her great uncle lives in the Forbidden Zone, the area where the East German border is a few metres away from West Germany. This is where the villages are like ghosts towns and inhabitants need special permits to enter.

    Claudia provides a vivid and unique description of entering the Forbidden Zone for the first time after being granted special permits to visit her Great Uncle on his 80th birthday. His house is the last house before the final border fences and Claudia describes up close to the fences, while her grandfather tells her about “rabbit discos”…

    We also hear more of her life in this isolated area, including strange sports activities and Claudia’s experience of being trained as a 12-year-old Para medic.

    We end the episode talking about how she and her family experienced the momentous events of 1989 when the border opens, and East Germans are free to cross into West Germany.

    Claudia has distilled these stories into a book, Never Mind, Comrade, published by Tangerine Press

    Don’t miss our previous episode with Claudia here https://pod.fo/e/137f1e

    0:00 Introduction

    1:00 Life and experiences in East Germany featuring Claudia Biashek

    10:07 Claudia's family history during World War 2

    17:10 Claudia's journey to the restricted zone and first sight of the Berlin Wall

    25:35 Claudia's family decision to emigrate and the fears associated

    34:35 Claudia's experience during the opening of the borders and crossing into the West

    44:27 Adaptation to life in the West

    46:00 Introduction to Claudia's book, "Nevermind Comrade"

    46:24 Acknowledging financial supporters of the podcast

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll become part of our community and get a 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 Claudia to our Cold War conversation…

    Enter the draw to win a copy of the book here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode249/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    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/

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    The girl at the edge of the World - an East German childhood at the West German Border (248) Aug 12, 2022

    A young Claudia Bierschenk lived in a village surrounded by hills, valleys and thick forests at the edge of a world called the GDR. It could be beautiful, but the Iron Curtain runs through it, like a tectonic plate separating East and West and Claudia from her West German relatives.


    She tells of her life in this isolated area, of village life, far away from the socialist showpiece of East Berlin, where there are only two types of yoghurt in the village store.

    In a series of snapshots, we re-live her childhood of secretly watching West German TV, learning “Marxism-Leninism for kids” at school, and the rare joy of a phone call from the West.

    We also hear of her parents’ challenges. For her father, it’s his home village, but he is criticised for his liberal views and for wearing Western braces to school. Locals see her mother as an outsider, and she yearns for a life in the West with her sister in West Berlin.

    Claudia has distilled these stories into a book, Never Mind, Comrade, published by Tangerine Press. Buy the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781910691700

    0:00 Introduction and Claudia Bierschenk's early life in the GDR

    6:50 Claudia's family occupations and life in a small town

    14:08 Education and the system of punishment and reward in East German schools

    24:06 Viewing Western television and maintaining contact with relatives in West Germany

    33:07 Claudia's family experiences with the Berlin Wall and escape attempts

    38:42 School experiences and navigating discussions in East Germany

    44:13 Tightening of border controls and holidays in Hungary

    49:56 After school activities and sports under the ideology ofEast Germany

    51:30 "Nevermind Comrade" book by Claudia Bierschenk

    52:00 Acknowledgement of financial supporters and call to action

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping 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 and sharing them on social media. It really helps us get new guests on the show.

    I am delighted to welcome Claudia Bierschenk to our Cold War conversation…


    Listen to the 2nd part of this interview here. https://pod.fo/e/1395f8


    Extra episode info here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode248


    All photos are © Claudia Bierschenk.

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    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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    A daughter's 18 year search for her Cold War CIA pilot father at the Bay of Pigs invasion in Cuba (247) Aug 05, 2022

    In 1961, members of the Alabama Air National Guard secretly took part in the failed invasion of Cuba by U.S.-backed Cuban exiles known as the Bay of Pigs. This was a covert attempt by the United States to overthrow the Soviet-allied Cuban government of Fidel Castro.


    Pete Ray was one of eight Alabama guardsmen who flew combat missions on April 19th 1961, which resulted in the deaths of Pete and three members of the Alabama unit. U.S. President John F. Kennedy later acknowledged America's involvement but denied that American military personnel had entered Cuban territory. It was not until 1987 did the U.S. revealed that eight ANG members had indeed flown into Cuban airspace.


    We hear from Pete Ray’s daughter Janet, who tirelessly worked to find out the truth of what happened that day despite the best efforts of the CIA, the Cubans, and the US government to obstruct her investigations.


    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping 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 Janet Ray to our Cold War conversation…


    Photos and videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode247/


    0:00 Introduction to the podcast and the story of the Bay of Pigs invasion

    2:32 Guest Introduction: Janet Ray, daughter of Pete Ray

    4:22 Pete Ray's involvement in the Bay of Pigs invasion

    9:34 Aftermath of the Bay of Pigs invasion and the government's cover-up

    15:03 Impact of the mercenaries' deaths on their families

    18:52 The fear and paranoia in the families following the Bay of Pigs invasion

    22:55 Janet's investigation into her father's death and resistance from the CIA

    31:58 Janet's interactions with the Bay of Pigs pilots and Fidel Castro

    47:15 The truth about Pete Ray's death and the return of his body

    55:58 Wrap up and closing comments by Ian Sanders

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    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod


    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/


    Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    British Army Air Corps helicopter co-pilot in Cold War Germany (246) Jul 29, 2022

    Paul continues his story with his recruitment into the Army Air Corps. It’s initially delayed with a tour providing airfield repair in West Germany and then the Falklands, but finally, he’s at training at Middle Wallop, the home of the Army Air Corps.

    He describes the training including underwater escapes, flying and navigation. As a Gazelle crewman, his role was navigator, observer and co-pilot. We hear of exercises including the lesser-known Railex/Probex, a US, French and British exercise to re-open a land corridor to West Berlin should the links be closed by Warsaw Pact forces and the British Frontier Service.

    Paul’s story is again full of great anecdotes and the dangerous reality of flying low-level missions in a single-engine aircraft including a forced landing with a General on board.

    0:00 Introduction and Paul's recruitment into the army air corps

    1:30 Sponsor: Call for donations and listener testimonial

    8:08 Discussion on practice drills and Paul's deployment to the Falklands

    20:02 Surviving training and posting back to Germany

    24:17 Transition to a new hangar and memorable encounter with Apache helicopters

    28:34 Flying the inner German border and interception of unauthorized flights

    33:42 Exercise Railex Probex: A combined US, French, and British exercise

    44:08 Winning the Rolls Royce Trophy and personal experiences in the army air corps

    54:24 Reflecting on the dangers of the job and the forgotten casualties of the Cold War

    58:33 Importance of timing for the general's travels and emergency landing due to engine failure

    1:13:59 Return to the Corps of Royal Engineers and posting back to Germany

    1:21:16 Paul's sunshine tour in Gibraltar and final tours

    1:21:48 Closing remarks and appreciation for patrons

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping 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 Paul to our Cold War conversation…


    Photos and videos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode246/

    Don’t miss our previous episode where Paul joins the Army as a boy soldier in the Royal Engineers here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode245/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    A boy soldier in the Cold War Royal Engineers (245) Jul 22, 2022

    Paul joined the Royal Engineers in 1977, aged 16 as an apprentice. We hear of his experience of joining the army at such a young age and being away from home for the first time.

    After initial training his first posting was to Osnabruck in 1979. Shortly after his arrival Paul is appointed to the challenging role of driver to the Squadron Sergeant Major

    With participation in exercises such as Crusader 80 and Active Edge Paul describes in detail the role of Royal Engineers in Cold War Germany, including mine laying, bridge demolition and fixed defence construction.

    Paul’s story is full of great anecdotes and tales of the reality of life in the British Army of the Rhine.

    Don’t miss our next episode where Paul joins the Army Air Corps and becomes an Aircrewman Observer on Gazelle helicopters along the Inner German Border.

    0:00 Introduction to Paul's journey in the Royal Engineers

    1:30 Request for support to keep the podcast running

    2:31 Paul's early life and decision to join the army

    9:14 Paul's arrival in Osnabruck and his role as a Land Rover driver

    29:00 Paul's experiences in Germany and developing an affinity for the country

    38:20 Preparation and expectations for exercise Crusader 80

    47:00 Cooperation with German farmers during the exercises

    59:00 The humanity of the Sergeant Major and the challenges of dispatch riders

    35:33 Transition to engineering tasks during the Crusader 80 exercise

    42:20 Paul's transition to support troop and working with REME workshop

    51:01 Paul's career move and application for the Army Air Corps

    52:56 Ian Sanders: Closing thoughts and reminders

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 Paul to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode245/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    A Mormon missionary in Cold War East Germany (244) Jul 14, 2022

    In the early 1980s East Germany had just 5000 members of the Church of Latter-day Saints, many of which had been members since before World War 2.

    In 1982 East German leader Erich Honecker historically allowed the church to build a temple in Freiberg and in 1988 Mormon missionaries were allowed into East Germany. Ken Brady describes his experiences as a Mormon missionary in East Germany as the country gradually disappeared and was absorbed into West Germany.

    Ken also gives us a valuable view of life away from Berlin in cities such as Cottbus, Gorlitz, Schwerin, Frankfurt an der Oder and Eisenhüttenstadt. It’s a fascinating story told with humour and candour as Ken grapples with local dialects, the local food and tricks with East German currency.


    0:00 Introduction and Ken Brady's early interest in East Germany

    7:16 The Church's operations in East Germany before the fall of the Berlin Wall

    12:24 First impressions of East Germany

    21:17 Fear of the Stasi after the fall of the Berlin Wall

    28:18 Encounters with locals suspecting them to be CIA agents

    34:19 Sightseeing and exploring local culture on days off

    42:19 Guidance on political party selection and introduction of West German products

    46:17 Teaching religion to those with no prior experience

    56:22 Currency Unification and its impact on East Germany

    1:09:00 Ken Brady's service in West Berlin

    1:18:18 The stark contrast of Soviet architecture

    1:21:00 Thanking the Patrons and final remarks

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 Ken to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode244/


    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    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/

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    US Navy Cold War airborne electronic reconnaissance (243) Jul 08, 2022

    KC flew the US Navy’s airborne Electronic Reconnaissance during the 1980s in the Lockheed EP-3 which is an electronic signals reconnaissance version of the P-3 Orion.

    He flew as a Navigator, Senior Electronic Warfare Evaluator and Mission Commander.

    We hear about several missions he was involved in including his first detachment to Athens the then main USN operating base for missions in the Mediterranean and the Adriatic.

    We also hear about flying in the Baltic from bases in the UK (Mildenhall/Wyton) or FRG (Schleswig-Jagel). Flying from Keflavik in Iceland KC monitored a huge Soviet Navy exercise in the Norwegian Sea involving the Kiev, Kirov, and numerous cruisers, destroyers, and frigates.

    In the 1980s Libya was claiming the Gulf of Sidra as its territorial waters and KC flew in support of “freedom of navigation” operations involving USN ships.

    It’s a great insight into a relatively unknown part of Cold War air operations.

    0:00 Introduction and KC's experience on the EP3

    9:21 Focus on the Adriatic and Yugoslavia and Albania

    15:24 The aftermath of the La Belle disco bomb attack and increased security measures

    26:10 Busy month flying from Athens

    32:27 Continuation of Cold War era aircraft in service today

    36:15 The Achilles Lauro cruise ship hijacking, October 1985

    54:25 Iowa class battleships and their role in the Cold War

    1:02:12 KC's last flight in the Baltic

    1:06:15 Instructions for landing in enemy territory

    1:13:33 Cold War conversations on Facebook

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 KC to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode243/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    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/

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    My life laid bare through secret police files (242) Jul 01, 2022

    What is it like to be under secret police surveillance? On 10 March 1983, 12-year-old Carmen Bugan returned from school to find Romanian secret police in her living room. Her father’s protest against the regime had changed her life forever.

    In recent years Carmen gained access to the files of the Romanian secret police. She herself is surprised by the intimacy of the surveillance. Forgotten conversations, love letters, and arguments are all laid bare via the detailed notes taken by the Securitate. We hear the sadness of discovering friends and family members were involved in informing on them too.

    Carmen and I discuss the “language of oppression”, the subtle and not-so-subtle methods used to try and ensure a compliant population but still thwarted by humanity even in the darkest recesses of the Romanian prison system.

    It’s a warning from history and the meaning of freedom in current times.

    0:00 Introduction of guest Carmen Bugan and her experience with the Romanian secret police

    4:08 Carmen's first experience with the secret police at the age of twelve

    10:55 Initial reactions to reading the secret police files and seeing recorded intimate details

    18:28 Carmen's discovery of surveillance files and their impact

    24:12 Carmen reads out a transcript from the files

    33:57 Carmen on the conflicts stirred by the files

    41:17 Carmen elaborates on why the secret police needed justifications for arrests

    49:21 Carmen discusses how family members justified their involvement with the secret police

    1:02:28 Carmen talks about the power of language to harm and inspire

    1:13:33 Ian Sanders introduces Carmen Bugan's book and previous episode

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    Buy the book here Carmen Bugan Books UK Listeners

    Carmen Bugan books US listeners

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation me will keep this project going and allow me to continue preserving these incredible stories. You’ll join our community, get a sought-after CWC drinks 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 back Carmen Bugan to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode242/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Don't miss Carmen's previous episode " A Childhood under the eye of the Secret Police" here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode147/


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    Royal Military Police versus the Soviets (SOXMIS) in Cold War West Germany (241) Jun 24, 2022

    Keith Bailey Joined British Army at 16 in 1973. He was recruited into the Blues and Royals, (Household Cavalry) and served in West Germany as a gunner in Chieftain tanks.

    However, he was keen to serve in the Royal Military Police and particularly 19 (Support) Platoon known as "The White Mice". Their role was to track the SOXMIS (Soviet Military Mission) in West Germany.

    SOXMIS operated under a 1946 agreement where the Soviets, British, US and French agreed to exchange mission groups to patrol the opposing side’s then zones of occupation.

    The agreement continued to 1990 and needless to say both sides bent the rules somewhat…

    0:00 Introduction

    2:35 Keith Bailey's Military Career and Transition to the Royal Military Police

    16:39 The Role of the RMP during the Cold War and Bailey's Experience

    19:11 Joining the 19 Support Platoon and Training

    23:29 The Presence of Soviet Troops in West Germany and Interactions

    38:07 Soviet Intelligence Gathering and Anecdotes

    43:28 Discussion about Soviet Precautions and Protocol for Crossing Sectors

    51:35 Keith's Collection of Cold War Photos and Discussion on Detaining SOXMIS Vehicles

    1:07:03 Reaction to the Fall of the Berlin Wall and Post-Cold War Interactions

    1:18:15 Invitation to Facebook Discussion Group and Closing Remarks

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 Keith Bailey to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes & photos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode241/

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    The man who built his own nuclear bunker (240) Jun 17, 2022

    Graham Bate was 30-year-old Civil Servant when he built his own nuclear bunker in the garden of his rural home 20 miles outside Hull in the UK.

    It was here that the Bate family expected to survive for at least 3 weeks after a nuclear attack.

    We speak with Graham Bate and his son Conrad who was 5 years old when the bunker was built and has vivid memories of the period.

    0:00 Introduction and background

    0:53 Guest Introduction: Graham Bate and his nuclear bunker

    2:26 The inception and design of Graham's bunker

    7:04 Family's experience and trial run in the bunker

    13:27 Reflections on the bunker project

    20:10 The family's nuclear emergency plan

    29:11 Security measures and local perspectives on the bunker

    32:37 Living conditions in the bunker

    37:03 Graham's fame and bunker building business

    43:39 Impact of the Cold War on the bunker business

    46:03 Learning curve and survival in a post-apocalyptic scenario

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    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will help preserve these accounts and keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 Graham and Conrad Bate to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information on this episode here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode240/


    Special thanks to Al McCann who helped facilitate this episode. Please visit his website Northern Ireland's Secret Bunker. A Cold War 'Living' Museum situated in County Armagh https://www.facebook.com/nibunker/

    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.

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated.


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    Cold War number stations (239) Jun 10, 2022

    You might remember listening to short wave radio during the Cold War and coming across weird transmissions of metallic voices reciting random groups of numbers through the ether. These are number stations, shortwave radio stations characterised by broadcasts of formatted numbers, which were being sent to spies operating in foreign countries.

    Number stations were used widely during the Cold War and we speak with Jo Reggelt. Jo has been working with Simon Mason who was a founding member of ENIGMA, launched in the 80s after identifying several of these stations.

    We discuss in detail the operations behind the transmissions and the stations themselves. You will hear some sample transmissions which Jo has kindly allowed us to use, including one with drunken Stasi officers serenading their agents after the opening of the Berlin Wall.

    We also detail a UK spy case that centred on capturing an agent red-handed listening to a numbers station.

    There’s further information including links here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode239/

    0:00 Introduction

    5:06 Overview of Number Stations

    20:37 Role of Agents and Attempts to Jam Number Stations

    29:51 Identification and grouping of number stations

    35:20 Notable Number Stations: Lincolnshire Poacher and CIA, BND Stations

    43:15 The Story of Czech Spy: Erwin Van Harlem

    54:41 Number Stations in Non-Aligned and NATO Nations

    1:02:26 History of South Tyrol and its Role in the Cold War

    1:07:27 Impact of the End of the Cold War on Number Stations

    1:12:25 Influence of Number Stations on Pop Culture

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Now if you think there is a vast army of research assistants, audio engineers and producers putting together this podcast you’d be wrong. This podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to everyone for free.

    If you’d like to help to preserve Cold War history and enable me to continue to produce this podcast you can via one-off or monthly donations.


    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.


    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.


    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

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    Air warfare in the Cold War (238) Jun 03, 2022

    The Cold War years were a period of unprecedented peace in Europe, yet they also saw a number of localised but nonetheless very intense wars throughout the wider world in which air power played a vital role.

    I speak with former Cold War Tornado pilot and acclaimed aviation historian Michael Napier who has written Flashpoints: Air Warfare in the Cold War published by Osprey which describes eight of these Cold War conflicts.

    We discuss the wide range of aircraft types used and the development of tactics over a period of revolution in aviation technology and design which saw some of the most modern technology that the NATO and Warsaw Pact forces deployed.

    UK listeners buy the book here

    US listeners buy the book here

    0:00 Introduction

    2:08 Introduction of guest Michael Napier and discussion on the importance of personalizing conflicts

    7:18 Deep dive into the Suez and Congo conflicts

    14:54 Role of the UN's air force in conflicts and the impact of combat aircraft

    24:08 Introduction to the Indo-Pakistan wars and the Arab-Israeli wars

    34:22 The toll of war on pilots and the international nature of conflicts

    35:59 Overview of the Iran-Iraq War

    40:53 The Falklands War: Initial reactions, strategies, and impact

    50:34 Closing remarks, acknowledgments, and store promotion

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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.


    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode236/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    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/

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    Arrested by the KGB and taken to the Lubyanka prison (237) May 27, 2022

    Marti Peterson was the first female CIA operative to be assigned to Moscow, probably the most challenging posting during the Cold War.


    Don't miss the previous episode here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode236/


    This second episode turns to TRIGON, the code name for Alexandr Ogorodnik. He was an official in the Soviet Embassy in Bogota, Columbia recruited by the CIA in 1973. Marti and TRIGON never met in person, but they shared information through dead drops and intelligence. We hear about the tradecraft involved.

    Marti is arrested by KGB agents and taken to Moscow's Lubyanka Prison for questioning and talks in detail about that experience.


    UK listeners buy Marti's the book here and support the podcast

    US listeners buy Marti's the book here and support the podcast

    0:00 Introduction and Marti Peterson's role in the Cold War

    2:33 Recruitment of Trigon by the CIA

    10:06 Marti's first dead drop for Trigon and surveillance evasion techniques

    18:24 Marti Peterson's account of her adrenaline-filled Cold War operations

    24:12 The value and dissemination of Trigon's intelligence

    29:55 Growing concerns about Trigon's safety and attempts to communicate

    33:11 The dead drop and Marti's unexpected encounter

    37:12 Marti Peterson's arrest, interrogation, and release

    49:59 Marti Peterson's return to the US and the discovery of Trigon's fate

    57:38 The aftermath: Trigon's unknown daughter in Bogota and his real identity

    1:00:21 Marti's meeting with President Jimmy Carter

    1:02:34 Episode notes, acknowledgement of financial supporters and call for donations

    1:03:25 The Cold War Conversations online store

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 Marti Peterson to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode237/


    Episode one is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode236/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    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

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    The first female CIA officer in Cold War Moscow (236) May 20, 2022

    Marti Peterson was the first female CIA operative to be assigned to Moscow, probably the most challenging posting during the Cold War. Her story begins in Laos during the Vietnam War where she accompanied her husband John, a CIA officer. She describes their life in a small city in Laos, and the devastating news she received on October 19, 1972.

    Marti returned to the United States and one night at dinner a good friend suggested she look into working for the CIA.

    After making it clear to CIA recruiters that she didn’t want to be a secretary or an admin assistant they trained her to become an operative, effectively a spy. When Marti was posted to Moscow during the day, she worked as a diplomat at the U.S. Embassy. At night, on weekends and during her lunch breaks, she would report to the CIA station in the same building to do her work as an operative.


    UK listeners buy Marti's the book here and support the podcast

    US listeners buy Marti's the book here and support the podcast

    0:00 Introduction and Marti Peterson's background

    1:14 Marti Peterson's life in Moscow as a CIA operative

    2:50 Marti's early life and college years

    6:20 Marti's experience as a CIA wife and life in Laos

    14:22 The path to becoming a CIA operative

    36:50 Training and preparation for Moscow

    40:10 Arrival and adaptation to life in Moscow

    49:54 Social life and intelligence work in Moscow

    53:31 Teaser for the next episode about Trigon

    54:52 Store promotion and closing remarks

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 Marti Peterson to our Cold War conversation…

    Episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode236/

    Listen to episode 2 here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode237/

    Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

    Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.

    The Cold War Conversations Bookshop

    Help us to continue recording the stories of the Cold War by using our bookshop.


    Please leave a review.

    If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a written review.



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    The 1989 World Festival of Youth and Students in Pyongyang, North Korea (235) May 13, 2022

    The 13th World Festival of Youth and Students was held from 1–8 July 1989 in Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. It was the largest international event staged in North Korea up until then.

    The event took four years of preparation by the North Korean government, which effectively spent a quarter of the country's yearly budget (US$4.5 billion) on it. Ultimately declared as the largest ever World Festival of Youth and Student with about 22,000 people from 177 countries attending.

    This event was the last festival held during the Cold War era as waves of unrest began to occur throughout Central and Eastern Europe later on in the year.

    Greg Elmer has directed the film “The Canadian Delegation” which features long time activist Chris Frazer who was handed the task of assembling a Canadian delegation to North Korea. The film follows Frazer and a number of other delegates as they recount their participation in the Festival as world events continued to unfold around them.

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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.

    Today’s episode is hosted by co-host Peter Ryan. I am delighted to welcome Greg Elmer to our Cold War conversation…

    0:00 Introduction and background of the 13th World Festival of Youth and Students

    2:21 Interview with Greg Elma: The History and Politics of the Youth Festivals

    9:15 Economic implications of North Korea's festival expenditures

    12:06 The Canadian Delegation: Composition and Journey to Pyongyang

    21:19 Festival Atmosphere and Experiences in North Korea

    27:18 Delegates' Realizations and Long-Term Impact of the Festival

    36:44 The Canadian Delegation's Response to Tiananmen Square

    45:20 Reaction to the Film "The Canadian Delegation"

    53:19 How to Access the Film on Vimeo and Future Plans

    54:07 Ian Sanders' Closing Remarks and Cold War Conversations' Call to Action

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    Watch the film here

    There’s further information and videos here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode235/

    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.

    The Cold War Conversations Bookshop

    Help us to continue recording the stories of the Cold War by using our bookshop.



    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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    Britain’s Cold War Human Chemical Warfare Experiments (234) May 06, 2022

    Ian Foulkes was exposed to the deadly nerve agent Sarin in 1983 at the Porton Down Chemical & Biological Defence Establishment., one of the UK's most secretive and controversial military research facilities.

    Ian describes in detail the process and the ill effects this caused him and shares details of a little-known fatality where 20-year-old Ronald Maddison died 45 minutes after what scientists thought was 200mg of liquid Sarin dripped onto his arm.

    We also talk about the development of chemical weapons during the Cold War and the history of the Porton Down Chemical & Biological Defence Establishment.

    Up to 20,000 people took part in various trials at Porton Down from 1949 up to 1989. In 2004 Maddison’s death was ruled to have been Corporate Manslaughter. The MoD withdrew a challenge to this ruling minutes before the hearing. In 2008 the MoD paid 600 veterans of the tests £8k each without admitting liability.

    Now if you think there is a vast army of research assistants, audio engineers and producers putting together this podcast you’d be wrong. This podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to everyone for free.

    If you’d like to help to preserve Cold War history and enable me to continue to produce this podcast you can via one-off or monthly donations.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    0:00 Introduction and background of the 13th World Festival of Youth and Students

    2:21 Interview with Greg Elma: The History and Politics of the Youth Festivals

    9:15 Economic implications of North Korea's festival expenditures

    12:06 The Canadian Delegation: Composition and Journey to Pyongyang

    21:19 Festival Atmosphere and Experiences in North Korea

    27:18 Delegates' Realizations and Long-Term Impact of the Festival

    36:44 The Canadian Delegation's Response to Tiananmen Square

    45:20 Reaction to the Film "The Canadian Delegation"

    53:19 How to Access the Film on Vimeo and Future Plans

    54:07 Ian Sanders' Closing Remarks and Cold War Conversations' Call to Action

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. 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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Flying for the CIA's Air America in South East Asia (233) Apr 29, 2022

    In 1964, pilot Captain Hansen found himself unemployed. He began to send out feelers to several companies including one that had placed an ad in the Washington Post called Air America. When he was called in for an interview which primarily consisted of two questions - can you fly good and do you drink a lot.

    Air America was the airline owned by the CIA. Its operations were unknown. Its schedules were irregular. Its pilots were shadow people. Its world was the world of spooks, covert air ops, adventure, and danger. Hansen would be flying in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and other locations in Southeast Asia. It could not have been a better fit for Hansen, an addicted adrenaline junkie. He would end up staying in Asia for over a decade and was fortunate enough to live to tell us about it in his book “Flight”

    Buy Neil's book here


    Cold War history is disappearing; however a simple monthly donation will help preserve it and keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 Neil Hansen to our Cold War conversation…

    Further information is here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode233/

    0:00 Introduction of guest, Neil Hansen, and his journey with Air America

    2:02 Call for financial support for the Cold War Conversations podcast

    3:35 Hansen's recruitment and early experiences with Air America

    13:31 Hansen's black flight missions and promotion within Air America

    20:13 Hansen's unique flight training methods and handling emergencies

    26:12 Planning missions and gathering intelligence in Vietnam and Laos

    30:53 Hansen's first-hand account of the Tet Offensive

    41:21 Navigating the dangers and challenges in Laos during the Cold War

    1:00:01 Hansen's harrowing experience of being shot down and bailing out

    1:04:07 The last flight out of Cambodia: Neil Hansen's escape and reflection

    1:20:26 Neil Hansen's fight for recognition, his book, and concluding remarks

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    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/

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    A photojournalist in Cold War Eastern Europe (232) Apr 22, 2022

    During the 1970s and 1980s, Arthur Grace travelled extensively behind the Iron Curtain, working primarily for news magazines. One of only a small corps of Western photographers with ongoing access, he was able to delve into the most ordinary corners of people's daily lives, while also covering significant events. His remarkable book Communism(s) A Cold War Album is effectively psychological portraits that leave the viewer with a sense of the gamut of emotions in that era.


    Illustrated with over 120 black-and-white images-nearly all previously unpublished- Communism(s) gives an unprecedented glimpse behind the veil of a not-so-distant time filled with harsh realities unseen by nearly all but those that lived through it. Shot in the USSR, Poland, Romania, Yugoslavia and the German Democratic Republic, here are portraits of factory workers, farmers, churchgoers, holidaymakers and loitering teens juxtaposed with Social Realist-designed apartment blocks, annual May Day Parades, Poland's Solidarity movement (and the subsequent imposition of martial law) and the vastness of Moscow's Red Square.


    Buy the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9788862087674

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 here. It really helps us get new guests on the show.


    0:00 Introduction to Cold War Conversations and Arthur Grace

    2:37 Sponsor: Cold War Conversations merchandise and donations

    5:31 Arthur Grace's experiences in Romania

    15:45 Encounters and photo opportunities in East Germany

    21:23 Anti-government memorials and Solidarity movement in Poland

    33:39 The art and challenges of photojournalism during the Cold War

    40:42 Transition and transformation in Poland between 1982 and 1989

    46:16 Reflections on Cold War assignments and favorite photographs

    48:45 Anecdotes from Moscow, Warsaw and the Gobi Desert

    58:11 Arthur's book

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    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.


    More episode info here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode232/


    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated.




    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Escaping from Cold War Romania (231) Apr 15, 2022

    Zsolt Akos Pall was 17 when he decided to flee Cold War Romania for a better life in the West.

    It’s a heart-warming story of the generosity of strangers. Young Zsolt finds compassionate border guards, gets lost in Vienna and has incredible luck wherever he turns as he negotiates the iron curtain as well as many other international borders to reach his brother in Sweden

    However, his escape is bittersweet as we hear of his emotional farewell to his parents, not knowing if he’d ever see them again.

    Cold War history is disappearing; however a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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.


    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode231/

    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 and Zolt Acos Powell's decision to flee Cold War Romania

    7:52 Zolt's parents' reaction and his journey to the Hungarian border

    16:00 Zolt's escape and experiences at the Hungarian border station

    24:01 Zolt's journey to Vienna and his first day there

    36:10 Zolt's journey from Vienna to Germany and his encounters along the way

    48:06 Zolt's attempt to cross the border, arrival in Germany and journey to Stuttgart

    53:02 Zolt's first impression of Hamburg

    1:04:01 Zolt's arrival in Sweden and reuniting with his brother

    1:07:38 The repercussions faced by Zolt's parents and their arrival in Sweden

    1:10:44 Conclusion, mention of financial supporters and the Cold War Conversations store

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    A Hungarian childhood in Cold War Romania (230) Apr 08, 2022

    Zsolt Akos Pall was born in a small town in the Hungarian speaking part of Romania.

    For ordinary people, life in Romania in the 1980s was very hard and it could be even worse if you were a part of the Hungarian Szekler minority since the Communist government persecuted the Hungarian minority. They even made them change their Hungarian names into Romanian. Zsolt's brother was renamed Istvan to Stefan. However, Zsolt was baptised Zsolt, since there was no Romanian equivalent to it.

    Zsolt describes the shortages, his schooling and many other stories of life in Romania during this period.

    We end the episode with Zsolt’s plans to escape to Sweden. Don’t miss Part 2!

    Cold War history is disappearing; however, a simple monthly donation will keep this podcast on the air. You’ll get a 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 Zsolt Akos Pall to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode230/

    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.

    0:00 Introduction and early life in Romania

    2:36 Life under communism and experience of the Hungarian minority in Romania

    15:56 Impact of shortages on daily life and industry

    18:47 School life, propaganda, and societal structure under the regime

    27:02 Cold War hobbies: Young pioneer experience and photography

    32:59 Brother's journey out of Romania and Western influences

    38:35 Zsolt's escape attempt and first love

    41:12 Life goals in Hungary, brother's journey to Sweden, and pivotal decision

    44:27 Closing remarks, acknowledgments, and sponsor mentions

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    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    The shooting down of KAL007, the Able Archer exercise and the nuclear war scare of 1983 (229) Apr 01, 2022

    The year 1983 was one of the most dangerous in human history. While the Cuban crisis was exceptionally dangerous and both the United States and the Soviet Union had significant nuclear arsenals in 1962, a war in 1983 would have likely ended the human race.


    Brian Morra was Chief of Intelligence Analysis for US Forces Japan at Yakota airbase when on 1st September 1983 an unarmed Korean airliner was shot down by a Soviet fighter causing the deaths of 269 people. He describes the less well known subsequent incidents between Soviet and US military aircraft which almost resulted in a shooting war between the two superpowers.


    During this period the Soviet leadership believed the US was going to launch a nuclear attack on their country. Their paranoia was heightened by several incidents during 1983 which are dramatized in Brian’s new novel “The Able Archers”, which is based on his experiences during that period.


    UK listeners buy the Able Archers book here

    US listeners buy the Able Archers book here

    Robert M. Gates, former CIA Director and Secretary of Defence describes “The Able Archers” as “a powerful reminder of the value of human judgment—and the continuing peril posed by nuclear-armed powers.”


    I could really use your support to continue the podcast. A simple monthly donation 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/

    I am delighted to welcome Brian Morra to our Cold War conversation…


    Brian's Web site https://brianjmorra.com/

    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/episode229

    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 or click here https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    0:00 Introduction and background of Brian Morra

    7:12 The 1983 incident involving U.S. Navy aircraft over Soviet territory

    17:12 Discussion on the shooting down of the Korean airliner KAL 007

    30:03 The hostile incident against the US intelligence collection aircraft

    41:44 Discussion on Stanislav Petrov, the man who saved the world

    56:14 Leonard Peroot's personality and professional skills and role in defusing the Able Archer 83 crisis

    1:04:58 Reflection on the book's portrayal of the 3 major flashpoints of 1983

    1:11:39 Recollections of decision-making during the Cold War

    1:19:33 Acknowledgement of patrons and how to become a patron

    1:21:03 Final goodbye

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    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Charlotte Philby talks about her grandfather Soviet spy Kim Philby & her book "Edith & Kim" (228) Mar 26, 2022

    In June 1934, Kim Philby met his Soviet handler, the spy Arnold Deutsch. Kim Philby was a British intelligence officer and a double agent for the Soviet Union. In 1963 he was revealed to be a member of the Cambridge Five, a spy ring that had divulged British secrets to the Soviets during World War II and in the early stages of the Cold War.

    The woman who introduced Philby to Deutsch was Edith Tudor-Hart and her story has never been told.

    Edith Tudor Hart changed the course of 20th-century history. Then she was written out of it.

    I speak with Charlotte Philby, granddaughter of Kim Philby. Charlotte has written "Edith and Kim" which draws on the Secret Intelligence Files on Edith Tudor Hart, along with the private archive letters of Kim Philby. This finely worked, evocative and beautifully tense novel tells, for the first time, the story of the woman behind the Third Man.

    We also hear from Charlotte what it was like having Kim Philby as her grandfather, including details of visits to see him in Moscow during the Cold War. It’s a fascinating insight into one of the most notorious spies of the Cold War.

    Now, this podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to you.

    If you’d like to continue to hear the podcast and help preserve Cold War history, you can support me via one off or monthly donations.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    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 Charlotte Philby to our Cold War conversation…

    Book giveaway details further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode228/

    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 and reflections on Kim Philby's legacy

    1:03 Discussion on Kim Philby and his Soviet handler, Arnold Deutsch

    4:21 Exploration of Edith Tudor-Hart's life and her connection to Kim Philby

    15:27 Edith Tudor-Hart's involvement in left wing politics and the rise of fascism

    18:28 Gender inequalities during the Cold War

    22:31 The significance of Edith's portrait in Kim's study

    31:43 Charlotte's memories of Kim Philby

    35:15 The impact of Kim Philby's legacy on Charlotte's career

    57:55 Edith's life as depicted through her photos

    1:02:19 Comparing Edith and Kim Philby's experiences in concealing their beliefs

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    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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    The first woman to graduate from French Commando school (227) Mar 19, 2022

    Maura McCormick was posted to Berlin as a Signals Intelligence voice interceptor (Russian). Her workplace was the Teufelsberg U.S. listening station, aka Field Station Berlin.

    Maura shares her early impressions of Berlin and working at the Tberg. She talks about her impressions of the infamous James Hall, a United States Army warrant officer and signals intelligence analyst who sold eavesdropping and code secrets to East Germany and the Soviet Union from 1983 to 1988.

    Maura also recounts a close call with Hüseyin Yıldırım, a Turkish-American auto mechanic who was a Stasi courier for the espionage activities of James Hall.

    Maura often visited East Berlin where she tells of an unusually close encounter with a chimney sweep that almost resulted in an international incident.

    In West Berlin, Maura became the first woman to graduate from French Commando school. The commandant had a nightly call to Paris to confirm that she had survived the day's training…

    Now if you think there is a vast army of research assistants, audio engineers and producers putting together this podcast you’d be wrong. This podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to everyone for free.

    If you’d like to help to preserve Cold War history and enable me to continue to produce this podcast you can via one-off or monthly donations.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    0:00 Introduction and Maura McCormick's role in the Cold War

    2:35 Interview with Maura McCormick begins

    5:56 Maura's first posting in Berlin and impressions of West Berlin

    16:21 Maura's interaction with Stasi spies James Hall and Hüseyin Yıldırım

    24:52 Maura's acclimatization trip to East Germany and encounters

    36:04 Maura's experiences in East Berlin and close encounter with East German leader

    44:13 Maura's interactions with East Germans

    48:40 How Maura ended up in French Commando school and her training experiences

    1:00:53 Exploring Berlin through books and films

    1:07:25 Accidental crossing of the border and reflections on Berlin

    1:13:15 First impressions of the Berlin Wall and questioning the depth of the Cold War victory

    1:14:28 Acknowledgement of the podcast's patrons and invitation to join the Facebook group

    1:15:19 Closing remarks and promotion of the podcast store

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    More info and videos related to this episode here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode227/


    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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    Betrayed by comrades (226) Mar 12, 2022

    Liz Kohn has been researching Alice Glasnerová, who was imprisoned as part of the early Cold War Czechoslovak show trials known as the Slansky trials.

    These were among the most notorious show trials of the 20th century, with the prosecution and sentencing to death of Rudolf Slánský, general secretary of the Czechoslovak Communist party, and 10 other defendants, who had been arrested in a brutal purge ordered by Stalin.

    Alice Glasnerová was Liz’s father’s first wife. When Liz started researching Alice’s life she had never seen a picture of her and had never read a word she had written. All I knew was that she had been married to her father and had been a member of the communist party. Liz has pieced together a tragic story of a couple although deeply in love, who were separated by the difference in their political views which ultimately resulted in pain, disillusion and betrayal.

    Now if you think there is a vast army of research assistants, audio engineers and producers putting together this podcast you’d be wrong. This podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to everyone for free.

    If you’d like to help to preserve Cold War history and enable me to continue to produce this podcast you can via one-off or monthly donations.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    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.

    0:00 Introduction to Liz Kohn and her research on Alice Glasnerova

    6:17 Alice Glasnerova's political journey and experiences in the Soviet Union

    14:58 Alice's experiences in Spain and the aftermath

    17:13 Alice's journey to America and the impact of Anti-Semitism

    20:02 Alice's return to Czechoslovakia and involvement in the war

    27:21 The communist takeover in Czechoslovakia and its impact on Alice's life

    31:04 Alice's arrest and her involvement with Noel Field

    43:38 The notorious Slansky trial and its outcomes

    49:21 Helena's trial, imprisonment, and post-release struggles

    1:00:52 Future plans for the story of Alice and Helena

    1:01:59 Closing remarks, appreciation for patrons, and invitation to join the Facebook group

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    You can read more about Liz’s research on her blog https://lookingforalice.com/

    There are further videos, photos and information on this episode here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode226/


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    My father, the KGB spy (225) Mar 05, 2022

    In 1978, Ieva Lesinska was a university student in Soviet Latvia with dreams of becoming a writer. She had just spent a heady month in New York visiting her father, Imants Lesinskis, a Soviet translator working at the United Nations. However, he was an employee of the KGB and a member of the Communist Party.


    During her trip to the US, Ieva’s father informed her that he and his wife Rasma were about to defect. He offered her a blunt choice: take a taxi to the Soviet Embassy and denounce him as a traitor, or stay with him and never see her mother or her homeland of Latvia again. She chose to stay.


    The new family officially became East German immigrants with new identities: Peter and Linda Dorn, and their daughter Evelyn. They were citizens of nowhere who possessed re-entry permits but no passports. In 1985, soon after Mr Lesinskis publicly disclosed confidential items on various KGB operations in Latvia, he died under mysterious circumstances.


    Watch the film about Ieva story here:

    UK https://amzn.to/3In12Ra US https://amzn.to/3xRZsBX

    This podcast relies on listener support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free. You can support my work and help to preserve Cold War history via one-off or monthly donations

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    I am delighted to welcome Ieva Lesinska to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode225/

    0:00 Introduction and story of Ieva Lesinska's parents as sleeper agents

    2:26 Ieva Lesinska on her childhood and family history in Soviet Latvia

    17:03 Revelation of Ieva's father's KGB affiliation and defection plans

    23:02 Ieva Lesinska's journey to the United States and her decision to stay

    39:13 Ieva Lesinska's adjustment to new life and identity in the US

    50:13 Ieva's academic journey in the US, from Ohio State University to University of Colorado

    57:42 Maintaining contact with her mother and dealing with homesickness

    1:00:39 Ieva's father's mysterious death and his double life as a CIA and KGB agent

    1:08:17 Reunion with her mother and her life after liberation in Latvia

    1:14:04 Her story being adapted into a film and rejection of the victim narrative

    1:17:41 Ieva Lesinska's current life as a journalist and translator

    1:19:13 Acknowledging and thanking patrons

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    "Three, Two, one, detonation..." a Royal Navy nuclear test veteran remembers (224) Feb 26, 2022

    The British Nuclear Test Veterans Association (BNTVA) is the Charity for UK Nuclear Veterans and last year they very kindly invited me to the annual conference. I met many veterans including Peter Lambourne and this is his story.

    Peter joined the Royal Navy aged 15. He describes those early days including serving on HMS Wizard during the Cod War with Iceland in 1961.

    In 1962 Peter was then posted to HMS Resolution which was the codename for the nuclear bomb testing base on Christmas Island.

    Peter’s base was less than 20 miles away from where hydrogen bombs were being detonated and he shares his experiences of those detonations.

    Many servicemen and islanders who were present at Christmas Island from 1957 to 1962 later reported severe health problems, which they attributed to the nuclear bomb tests – from cancers to organ failure. Whilst Peter’s health has appeared unaffected, his children and grandchildren have suffered from cancers.

    In 2023 the UK finally awarded a medal to the nuclear test veterans.

    Now if you think there is a vast army of research assistants, audio engineers and producers putting together this podcast you’d be wrong. This podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to everyone for free.

    If you’d like to help to preserve Cold War history and enable me to continue to produce this podcast you can via one off or monthly donations.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    0:00 Introduction and Peter Lambourne's background

    1:06 Peter's posting to HMS Resolution and nuclear bomb testing on Christmas Island

    2:29 Call for podcast support and donations

    3:33 Peter's experience in the Cod War with Iceland and posting to Christmas Island

    12:10 Witnessing hydrogen bomb detonations on Christmas Island

    17:06 The terrifying contingency plans and impracticality of their landing crafts

    21:01 Lack of protective clothing and radiation tracking

    24:33 Recreational activities and dynamics of the Navy group on Christmas Island

    29:47 The mystery of the "big black line" in Peter's service record and the classified nature of the mission

    34:05 The health effects of radiation exposure and the government's avoidance of liability

    38:09 Reflections on Christmas Island as part of Peter's naval career

    42:57 Closing remarks and thanks to patrons

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    The British Nuclear Test Veterans Association (BNTVA) is the Charity for UK Nuclear Veterans https://www.bntva.com/

    There’s further information including videos and photos on this episode here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode224

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    The Stasi Poetry Circle (223) Feb 19, 2022

    In 1982 the East German Ministry for State Security is hunting for creative new weapons in the war against the class enemy – and their solution is stranger than fiction. Rather than guns, tanks, or bombs, the Stasi develop a programme to fight capitalism through rhyme and verse, winning the culture war through poetry – and the result is the most bizarre book club in history.

    I speak with Philip Oltermann the author of The Stasi Poetry Circle. Philip has used unseen archival material and exclusive interviews with surviving members to tell the incredible hidden story of a unique experiment: weaponising poetry for politics.

    Now if you think there is a vast army of research assistants, audio engineers and producers putting together this podcast you’d be wrong. This podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to everyone for free.

    If you’d like to help to preserve Cold War history and enable me to continue to produce this podcast you can via one off or monthly donations.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    Do join our facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.

    I am delighted to welcome Philip Oltermann to our Cold War conversation…

    Book giveaway and further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode223/

    0:00 Introduction with Philip Oltermann

    6:09 Discussion on GDR's policies towards arts and culture

    13:22 The Stasi's involvement with writing circles and their shift in approach

    21:01 Role of poetry and culture as a weapon in the Cold War

    28:37 The story of Annegret Gollin and Stasi's fear of subversive literature

    34:57 Stasi's recruitment process and the impact on Annegret Gollin.

    39:03 Introduction to Alexander Ruika, a talented poet and spy

    44:27 Discussion on the fear of nuclear war in the 1980s

    49:39 Introduction to Uwe Berger, the teacher of the Stasi poetry circle

    57:43 The decline of the GDR and impact on the writing circle

    1:02:13 Book giveaway announcement

    1:03:12 Acknowledgement of the podcast's patrons and promotion of the Facebook group

    1:06:03 Closing remarks and promotion of the podcast's store

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    The start of the Cuban revolution & the launch of Apollo 8 (222) Feb 16, 2022

    The phrase “history is human” was coined by two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian David McCullough. He says “History is about life. It isn't just about dates and quotations from obscure treaties and the like; it's about people", which is exactly what Cold War Conversations is about.


    I discovered this phrase listening to the History Daily podcast presented and narrated by Lindsay Graham. This podcast takes you back in time to explore a momentous moment that happened "on this day" in history using fully immersive, sound design, original music and a compelling narrative style.

    I really enjoy it and I'm sure you will too. I am sharing two short Cold War episodes on this bonus episode. If think you'd enjoy the History Daily podcast follow or subscribe by searching “History Daily Podcast”. or click on this link https://pod.link/1591095413


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Cold War British Army fighting tactics in West Germany (221) Feb 12, 2022

    Frank Baldwin was commissioned into the Royal Artillery in 1979 and served for ten years, rising to the rank of Major. The first battlefield study he planned was in 1989 for HQ 4th Armoured Division. Since then, he has been a guide or historian for over 200 realities of war tours, battlefield studies and staff rides.

    Frank reels off lots of great anecdotes as he takes us through the initial years of the BAOR and the British Army’s plans for the defence of West Germany.

    He talks about the evolution of doctrines, on both the Soviet and NATO sides including their nuclear war-fighting techniques.

    Frank also describes working with Warsaw Pact observers of NATO military exercises and the British view of the effectiveness of other NATO armies as well as the armies of the Warsaw Pact.


    Maps and material to accompany this episode are here https://www.staffrideservices.com/?p=461

    Now if you are enjoying these podcasts I’m asking for you to support my work with a small monthly donation. Your donations enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free to others.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    I am delighted to welcome Frank Baldwin to our Cold War conversation…

    Battlefield tour website

    Story of a BAOR Cold war tour

    Maps and material on BAOR and the Cold war. Cold war background material

    Frank Baldwin's blog The Observation Post

    0:00 Introduction and overview of the episode

    2:37 Discussion on the planning and strategy during the Cold War

    8:50 The concept of flexible response and the shift in NATO's planning

    19:39 Tactics and maneuvers in the face of Russian forces

    27:14 The Battle Group trainer and war simulation

    33:04 Introduction of CSC and Stockholm agreement, and experiences during Iron Hammer exercise

    37:07 Interaction with officers from the Warsaw pact and insights into Russian training methods

    46:23 Perception of East Germans and experiences in East Germany

    53:00 Post-cold war British army engagements and core values

    56:31 Civilian evacuation during the Cold War and the role of German transport

    1:00:34 Supporter acknowledgement and episode closing

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    The West Berlin village surrounded by the Berlin Wall (220) Feb 05, 2022

    When the Cold War split Berlin in half, between East and West, one neighbourhood was trapped in the middle and became a symbol of Cold War tensions.

    For more than twenty years, the hamlet of Steinstücken was caught in a tug-of-war between the Americans, the Soviets and the East Germans.

    Steinstücken officially belonged to the U.S. Occupation Sector of Berlin. But, it was located outside the city boundaries, completely surrounded by East German territory. No West Berlin-owned roads or trails connected it to the city. It was a de facto Western island in a Communist sea.

    We speak with Cold War veteran Don Smith the author of Steinstuecken: A Little Pocket of Freedom, a photo and fact-packed book which describes the challenges America faced in occupied Berlin and the personal stories of the citizens of Steinstücken who faced East German soldiers on a daily basis.

    Buy the book here and support the podcast


    UK listeners https://amzn.to/3Aux9dW

    US listeners https://amzn.to/3r47PZi

    Don’s web site http://steinpocket.com/

    Now if you think there is a vast army of research assistants, audio engineers and producers putting together this podcast you’d be wrong. This podcast relies on your support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available to everyone for free.

    If you’d like to help to preserve Cold War history and enable me to continue to produce this podcast you can via one-off or monthly donations.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    I am delighted to welcome Don Smith to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information including videos here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode220/

    0:00 Introduction and background of Steinstücken

    5:21 History and life in Steinstücken during the Cold War

    14:03 The unique nature of German farming and how Steinstücken got its name

    16:10 East Germany's attempt to annex Steinstücken and America's response

    20:47 The political dynamics in Steinstücken during the Cold War

    30:25 Impact of the Berlin Wall on Steinstücken

    38:17 The refugee situation and U.S. military operations in Steinstücken

    45:37 Economic and societal implications in Steinstücken and the 4 power agreement

    1:01:15 Post Cold War integration of Steinstücken into West Berlin

    1:07:04 Podcast patrons and invitation to join the Facebook group

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    Tales of a West German football fan in the Soviet bloc (219) Jan 29, 2022

    You will remember Karl-Heinz from our episode 218 where he talked about being a signaller on the West German destroyer "Hamburg" in the late 70s.

    Today we follow his post navy life as a travelling supporter of football club HSV Hamburg where he followed them all over the Soviet bloc talks about watching them play Dynamo Berlin the Stasi side and drinking with Liverpool, Newcastle and Hamburg legend Kevin Keegan in a hotel bar in Tiblisi.

    And his Cold War encounters don’t stop there. While working in Chile he met General Pinochet, the military dictator of Chile from 1973 to 1990 and living across the street from Margot Honecker the wife of East German leader Erich Honecker who was also an influential member of that country's Communist regime until 1989.

    If you have listened this far, I know you are enjoying the podcasts so I’m asking for one-off or monthly donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you, audio and other extras as well as basking 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.


    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.

    I am delighted to welcome Karl-Heinz to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information on this episode here including videos here . https://coldwarconversations.com/episode219/

    0:00 Introduction to the episode and Karl Heinz's experiences with the KGB

    2:02 Request for donations and support for the podcast

    4:01 Karl Heinz's recollections of visits to East Berlin and encounters with fans

    9:44 Karl Heinz's trip to Tbilisi, Georgia for a football match and interactions with locals

    17:32 Encounter with potential KGB agents and misunderstandings with locals

    20:38 Karl Heinz's football game experiences in East Berlin

    24:57 Karl Heinz's experience in Chile during the time of Pinochet and meeting with Pinochet

    30:16 Meeting with Margaret Honecker and her continued belief in the communist cause

    32:04 Acknowledgement of patrons and their contributions

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    Serving on the West German destroyer "Hamburg" (218) Jan 22, 2022

    Karl-Heinz served in the Bundesmarine as a Signalman on the West German destroyer "Hamburg" in the late 70s.

    He talks of his training, his role and shares details of manoeuvres in the North Sea and Baltics involving East German and Soviet ships.

    He also speaks about a cruise to West Africa where the sailors were briefed to stay away from any East German merchant marine sailors and not to engage with them in any form – he and his mates didn’t keep to the rules…

    If you have listened this far, I know you are enjoying the podcasts so I’m asking for one-off or monthly donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, you will get the sought after CWC coaster as a thank you, audio and other extras as well as basking 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 Karl-Heinz to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information on this episode in our show notes here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode218/

    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 and Overview of the Episode

    2:29 Sponsor: Request for Donations and Support

    3:15 Karl Heinz's Entry and Role in the West German Navy

    10:56 Karl Heinz's Posting to the Destroyer Hamburg and West Africa Tour

    18:03 Interaction with East German Sailors

    22:27 Military Drills and Exercises in the North Sea and the Baltic

    28:00 Anti Submarine Warfare Practice and Duration of Service

    30:41 Cold War Travel Restrictions

    30:49 Acknowledgments to Patreon Supporters

    32:01 Engaging with the Podcast and Closing Remarks

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    The CIA director responsible for creating spy devices (217) Jan 15, 2022

    After service in the US Army during the Vietnam War Bob Wallace was recruited into the CIA.

    In the CIA his initial assignments were as a field case officer. He rose through the ranks at the agency and was Chief of Station in three locations where he directed the full range of CIA activities.

    In 1995 Bob became deputy director of the Office of Technical Service and in 1998 was appointed its director responsible for creating spy devices and capabilities necessary to conduct clandestine operations with safety and security. In other words, Bob was the "Q" of the CIA.


    Buy Bob's book here

    UK listeners https://amzn.to/3pBDrF4

    US listeners https://amzn.to/3qvX0xD


    This podcast relies on listener support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free. You can support my work and help to preserve Cold War history via one-off or monthly donations

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/for for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    I am delighted to welcome Bob Wallace to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode217/

    0:00 Introduction and Bob's journey to the CIA

    7:00 The professional career training program at the CIA

    14:21 Use of technology in clandestine operations in the 1970s

    20:07 Development of devices for espionage operations

    42:04 Role as Director of The CIA's Office of Technical Service

    48:41 The science of disguise and examples of successful disguises

    54:31 The role of Hollywood in disguise techniques

    58:31 Reflections on the Cold War era and thoughts on the future of espionage

    1:00:24 Inspiration from James Bond movies and spy fiction

    1:02:31 Closing remarks and appreciation

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    Vietnam War draftee to US Army Rangers (216) Jan 08, 2022

    Bob Wallace joined the US Army in 1968 as a reluctant conscript. He describes the draft process, and his attempts to avoid conscription.

    After basic training, Bob is assigned to a long range reconnaissance unit and ambush unit in five or six man teams in the Mekong delta.

    We hear of the reconnaissance and ambush tactics as well as some poignant memories of those that didn’t make it back.

    This podcast relies on listener support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free. You can support my work and help to preserve Cold War history via one off or monthly donations

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    I am delighted to welcome Bob Wallace to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information on this episode here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode216/

    0:00 Introduction and request for donations

    1:03 Introduction to guest, Bob Wallace, Vietnam War Veteran

    3:21 Bob Wallace's early life and journey to the US Army

    13:25 Bob's arrival in Vietnam and military training experiences

    21:21 Bob's leadership experiences and decision to turn down promotions

    24:54 Discussion on Bob's deployment to Vietnam and role in a Ranger reconnaissance team

    35:43 Bob's experiences in identifying hostile targets and ambush operations

    40:51 Bob's first time under fire and personal reflections on combat

    42:38 Bob's visit to the Vietnam War Memorial and remembering fallen comrades

    46:02 Introduction of Bob's book, "9 from the 9th", and discussion on shared experiences

    49:18 Acknowledgment of patrons and call to donate

    50:54 Closing remarks and promotion of the Cold War Conversations store

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    Helping the Refuseniks (215) Jan 01, 2022

    Refusenik was an unofficial term for individuals—typically, but not exclusively, Soviet Jews—who were denied permission to emigrate, primarily to Israel, by the authorities of the Soviet Union and other countries of the Eastern bloc. The term refusenik is derived from the "refusal" handed down to a prospective emigrant from the Soviet authorities.

    Eric Hochstein was a staff member for Senator Carl Levin of Michigan working on human rights. Human rights were a big issue for Senator Levin.

    Eric went as part of a standard commercial tour of the SU for two weeks from Sep 28th,1980, where he visited Moscow, Kharkiv, Kyiv, Odessa, and Leningrad. Eric and his colleagues used this trip to peel off and visit various Refusenik families to bring them news, messages and supplies.

    Only protected by a US passport and a tourist visa Eric travelled by public transport under surveillance from the KGB carrying supplies for the families included Levi jeans which were better than money in the Soviet Union of the 1980s.

    0:00 Introduction

    2:50 Guest Introduction: Eric Hochstein

    6:51 Lead-up to Eric Hochstein's trip to the USSR

    13:41 Arrival and first impressions of the Soviet Union

    23:39 Interaction with Refusenik families and their conditions

    29:42 Anecdotes about being followed by the KGB

    36:04 Soviet people's awareness about the United States and the West

    40:12 Impressions of Leningrad and merchandise scarcity in Soviet Union

    45:12 Acknowledgement and thanks to patrons

    46:41 Cold War Conversations store promotion

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    I could really use your support to help me to capture and preserve these amazing stories of the Cold War.

    If you could make either a one-off or better still sign up to monthly donations to help me to find the time to produce and finance the project.

    If you’d like to know more just go to cwc.com/donate

    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.

    Peter Ryan is your host today and I am delighted to welcome Eric Hochstein to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode215

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


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    Eyewitness to the 1991 Soviet Coup with Brett Elliott (214) Dec 25, 2021

    Today’s episode is different. Brett Elliott died earlier this year and I was contacted by his ex-wife Polly who offered me a cassette tape.


    Polly and Brett had met in college and got to know each other in Russian Club at Oklahoma State. In the summer of 1991, they went to Moscow to pursue Polly’s goal of being a reporter in Russia and Brett’s goal of further studying Russia.


    They both worked together covering the Bush Gorbachev summit, with Polly as a reporter and Brett as an interpreter. Polly left Russia early, but Brett stayed a few weeks more and witnessed the collapse of the Soviet Union, August 19-21, 1991. During a rare phone call, Polly begged him to be careful, and he famously said she was worse than the coup leaders if she wanted to deny him getting out to witness history…


    Polly's book is available on the links below

    US Listeners https://amzn.to/3mEuPMa

    UK listeners https://amzn.to/3CLuHjy


    We have photos here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode214/


    This podcast relies on listener support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free. You can support my work and help to preserve Cold War history via one-off or monthly donations


    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.


    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.


    This episode is the audio from the cassette of Brett describing his experiences just two weeks after the coup. Being on cassette the sound quality is not great, but I am delighted and honoured to welcome Brett Elliott to our Cold War conversation…

    0:00 Introduction and appeal for donations

    1:47 Brett and Polly's experience in Russia

    5:55 Brett's account before and during the coup

    14:09 Brett's analysis of the coup leaders' strategy

    16:03 Reaction to the arrival of armored vehicles in Moscow

    21:23 Protestors' response to the show of military force

    28:45 The march towards the Russian Federation building

    31:01 Day 2: Speeches and continued protests

    35:07 Brett's journey back home through Yugoslavia

    44:22 Brett's reflection on the changes since the uprising

    46:00 Ian Sanders: Closing remarks and thanks to patrons

    47:13 Ian Sanders: Postscript and store promotion

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    Working in the nuclear missile compartment of a Cold War Royal Navy Polaris submarine (213) Dec 18, 2021

    John Andrews joined the Royal Navy in 1981 and went on to serve aboard the HMS Repulse, one of the UK’s Polaris nuclear missile submarines from 1982.

    His role was Missile Compartment Control Patrol which included security of the nuclear missile compartment as well as assisting in the maintenance of the missile tubes and the nuclear missiles themselves.

    John shares details of life aboard the ship including missile launch tests, alcohol, practical jokes, escape procedures from a submerged submarine and many more.

    This podcast relies on listener support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free. You can support my work and help to preserve Cold War history via one-off or monthly donations

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    Now, this episode was recorded at the Hack Green Nuclear Bunker Soviet Threat event so you will hear some background noise, but I am delighted to welcome John Andrews 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.

    0:00 Introduction and guest John Andrews' role in the Royal Navy

    3:05 Detailed background of John's service

    6:13 Discussion on John's claustrophobia and PTSD diagnosis

    9:02 Recollection of a missile launch test

    15:32 Understanding of ship-wide activities

    20:38 Role of detonators in missile launch

    24:28 Monitoring radiation exposure and experiences with PTSD

    28:17 Relationships and interactions with officers

    31:40 Family communication on the submarine

    37:52 Running quiet on the submarine when being followed

    42:22 Rivalry between submarines and crews

    44:30 Closing remarks by Ian Sanders

    43:55 Acknowledging patrons and call for donations

    44:45 Cold War Conversations store advertisement

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    British Army "stay behinds" the Special OP Troop (212) Dec 11, 2021

    I speak with Colin Ferguson a veteran from the British Army‘s covert Special Observation Post Troop which was founded in 1982.

    The "stay behind" Special OP Troop consisted of selected soldiers in 6 man patrols whose task was to dig in large underground hides known as "mexe" shelters along the inner German border. They would then allow the main Soviet forces to pass over them before deploying to two smaller observation posts (Ops) where they would engage the enemy with the long-range guns and rockets of the British Army.

    Colin, covers in detail, selection, training and deployment as well as how the mexes were constructed. Do check out Colin’s podcast, “The Unconventional Soldier” which offers first-hand accounts of past conflicts, military history, book and film reviews, plus guests, dits and digression

    This podcast relies on listener support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free. You can support my work and help to preserve Cold War history via one off or monthly donations

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes.


    This episode is dedicated to remembering two members of the Special Op Troop. Lance Bombardier Steve Cummins, who is pictured on the episode cover and Gunner Miles Amos who lost their lives in 1989 when their vehicle struck a mine near Londonderry. We thank them for their service.

    I am delighted and honoured to welcome Colin Ferguson to our Cold War conversation…

    There are photos and further info here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode212/

    0:00 Introduction

    0:24 Interview with Colin Ferguson, a veteran from the British Army's covert Special OP troop

    7:22 Basic training for the artillery and assignment to the 12th air defense regiment

    14:24 Volunteering and initial training for the Special OP troop

    20:30 The selection process for the Special OP troop and field experience training

    33:08 Survival skills, live field firing and the final exercise of the course

    36:48 Historical accuracy of army depictions in movies and use of Soviet vehicles for training

    40:31 Deployment of special OP troops, selection of shelter locations and creation of target information packs

    50:20 Communication distance with the artillery and encryption of communication

    59:45 Participation in Exercise Reforger, end of the Cold War and escape and evasion training

    1:02:51 Survival and resistance interrogation course and experiences facing the Soviet army

    1:12:13 Reflections on the sacrifices of fellow soldiers and remembering the casualties of the Cold War

    1:13:44 Introduction to the "Unconventional Soldier" podcast

    1:16:31 Store promotion and closing remarks

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    A Cold War childhood in Albania (211) Dec 03, 2021

    Lea Ypi grew up in one of the most isolated countries on earth, a place where communist ideals had officially replaced religion. Albania, the last Stalinist outpost in Europe, was almost impossible to visit, almost impossible to leave. It was a place of queuing and scarcity, of political executions and secret police. To Lea, it was home. People were equal, neighbours helped each other, and children were expected to build a better world. There was community and hope.

    Then, in December 1990, a year after the fall of the Berlin Wall, everything changed. The statues of Stalin and Hoxha were toppled. Almost overnight, people could vote freely, wear what they liked and worship as they wished. There was no longer anything to fear from prying ears. But factories shut, jobs disappeared and thousands fled to Italy on crowded ships, only to be sent back. Predatory pyramid schemes eventually bankrupted the country, leading to violent conflict. As one generation's aspirations became another's disillusionment, and as her own family's secrets were revealed, Lea found herself questioning what freedom really meant.

    Free is an engrossing memoir of coming of age amid political upheaval. With acute insight and wit, Lea Ypi traces the limits of progress and the burden of the past, illuminating the spaces between ideals and reality, and the hopes and fears of people pulled up by the sweep of history.


    Buy the book and support the podcast

    • UK buyers https://amzn.to/2ZVgRx4
    • US buyers https://amzn.to/3psOkr8

    Now time doesn’t come free and I’m asking listeners to support my work recording these incredible stories via a small (or large)l donation. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 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. Schattenberg

    I am delighted to welcome Lea Ypi to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode210/

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction

    1:01 Life in Albania during the Cold War: Lea Ypi's Background

    3:08 Lea Ypi's Family History and the Impact of Politics

    7:15 Tourism and International Influence in Cold War Albania

    15:46 Decoding Family Secrets: The Coded Language of Dissidence

    19:25 The Delayed Fall of Communism in Albania and its Aftermath

    26:35 Lea Ypi's Exposure to the Outside World and Cultural Shifts

    34:39 Childhood Memories: The Tourist Area and Italian Television

    42:13 Political Transition in Albania: From Communism to Liberalism

    51:48 Rise and Fall of Pyramid Schemes in Transitioning Albania

    54:18 Lea Ypi's Journey into Studying and Teaching Marx and Marxism

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    The Cold War handshake in the heavens - the Apollo-Soyuz mission (210) Nov 27, 2021

    On 17 July 1975 the first manned international space mission, carried out jointly by the United States and the Soviet Union. Millions of people around the world watched on television as a United States Apollo module docked with a Soviet Union Soyuz capsule.

    The project, and its memorable handshake in the heavens, was a symbol of détente between the two superpowers during the Cold War, and it is generally considered to mark the end of the Space Race.

    Unthinkable only years earlier the Apollo–Soyuz mission was made possible by the thaw Soviet-US relations. According to Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, "The Soviet and American spacemen will go up into outer space for the first major joint scientific experiment in the history of mankind. They know that from outer space our planet looks even more beautiful. It is big enough for us to live peacefully on it, but it is too small to be threatened by nuclear war.”

    Our guest is Cold War Conversations favourite, author Stephen Walker, the author of Beyond: The Astonishing Story of the First Human to Leave Our Planet and Journey into Space.

    Buy the book here and support CWC

    UK https://amzn.to/3wOBZRI

    US https://amzn.to/30vgsld


    Do check out our two previous episodes with Stephen. Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode172/ and the Forgotten Cosmonaut here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode192/

    I’m asking listeners to support my work and enable me to continue recording these incredible stories. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 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.

    I am delighted to welcome Stephen Walker back to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode210/

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and historic narration of the Apollo-Soyuz mission

    1:24 Significance of the Apollo-Soyuz mission in the Cold War context

    5:44 Detailed discussion on the Apollo-Soyuz mission: technological, political, and human aspects

    10:17 Beginning of the thawing of Cold War tensions and the role of Apollo-Soyuz mission

    20:06 Challenges encountered during the Apollo-Soyuz mission: Language and technology

    24:38 Profiles of Apollo-Soyuz mission crew members

    32:23 Training, first impressions, and cultural exchange between the American and Soviet teams

    44:51 The launch of the mission and the first-ever televised Soviet launch

    50:23 First meeting in space, exchange of gifts, shared journey, and near disaster

    57:41 Troubled return of the Apollo and the aftermath

    1:01:53 Legacy of the Apollo-Soyuz mission and the changing dynamics of space travel

    1:08:05 Reflections on the collapse of the Soviet Union and the Berlin Wall

    1:08:49 Introduction to Stephen Walker's book "Beyond"

    1:11:23 Acknowledgement of the show's patrons and supporters

    1:12:29 Closing remarks and promotion of the Cold War Conversations store

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    Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev - aspiring actor and poetry fan (209) Nov 14, 2021

    Now, what do you think of when you hear the name Leonid Brezhnev who ruled the Soviet Union for 18 years from the 1960s to the 1980s?


    An old guy waving weakly from the Lenin mausoleum?

    Well, think again! We speak with Susanne Schattenberg, the author of a new biography that systematically dismantles the stereotypical and one-dimensional view of Brezhnev as the stagnating Stalinist by drawing on a wealth of archival research and documents not previously studied in English.

    The Brezhnev that emerges is a complex one, from his early apolitical years, as an aspiring actor and poetry fan, through his swift and surprising rise through the Party ranks.

    We talk about his hitherto misunderstood role in Khrushchev's ousting and appointment as his successor, to his somewhat pro-Western foreign policy aims, deft consolidation and management of power, and ultimate descent into addiction and untimely death.

    For Schattenberg, this is the story of a flawed and ineffectual idealist - for the West, this biography makes a convincing case that Brezhnev should be reappraised as one of the most interesting and important political figures of the twentieth century.


    Buy the book here and support CWC

    UK https://amzn.to/3kCUaVn

    US https://amzn.to/3c9fOvZ

    Now time doesn’t come free and I’m asking listeners to support my work recording these incredible stories via a small (or large)l donation. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 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.

    I am delighted to welcome Susanne Schattenberg to our Cold War conversation…

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction

    2:58 Brezhnev's early life, education, and career

    8:07 Start of Brezhnev's political career and navigation of Stalinist purges

    23:08 Brezhnev's rise to power and relationship with Khrushchev

    34:06 Brezhnev's leadership style, reforms, and international crisis

    38:12 Brezhnev's portrayal as a Western statesman and health decline

    49:34 Brezhnev's involvement in Afghanistan and Poland's situation

    56:41 Closing remarks and promotion of Cold War Conversations store

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    Born into a family of Canadian Communists (208) Nov 13, 2021

    Fred Weir was a third-generation red diaper baby from Toronto and a long-time member of the Communist Party. His uncle, trained at the Lenin School in Moscow in the 1920s as an agent of the Communist International, the Comintern and spent many years in the USSR.

    Fred had visited a few times, had studied Russian history up to the graduate level, but never wanted to live there until Gorbachev came to power in 1985. The new general secretary, the party’s first to be born after the revolution, talked, unlike any Communist leader since the original Bolsheviks. Suddenly, there was the electrifying prospect of socialism powered from below, a system focused on creative human potential rather than crop statistics.

    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 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 am delighted to welcome Fred Weir to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode208/

    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/

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    0:00 Introduction

    3:00 Introduction of guest Fred Weir and discussion on his early life

    9:16 Recollection of the Prague Spring and its impact

    15:24 Decision to stay in Moscow after the collapse of the Soviet Union

    19:03 Socializing with local Communist Party members and life in Soviet Union

    25:48 Covering the impact of Glasnost and Perestroika

    35:41 The transition from Yeltson's to Putin's leadership

    39:15 Fred Weir's experiences during the 1991 coup

    52:09 Predicting and understanding the collapse of the Soviet Union

    55:13 Life after the collapse of the Soviet Union

    1:00:34 Acknowledging the support of patrons

    1:01:20 Cold War Conversations discussion group on Facebook

    1:02:28 Cold War Conversations store

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    Berlin: Capital of Spies (207) Nov 06, 2021

    For almost half a century, the hottest front in the Cold War was right across Berlin. From summer 1945 until 1990, spying was part of everyday life in both East and West Berlin.

    I speak with historian Bernd von Kostka of the Allied Museum in Berlin-Dahlem who has co-authored with Sven Felix Kellerhoff the book Capital of Spies: Intelligence agencies in Berlin during the Cold War recently published by Casemate.

    The book describes the spectacular successes and failures of the various secret services based in the city and in this episode we will concentrate on one of the chapters detailing the work of the various Allied listening stations.


    Buy "Capital of Spies" and support the podcast here

    • UK Listeners https://amzn.to/3mFb3jK
    • US Listeners https://amzn.to/3waLwSL

    This podcast relies on listener support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free. You can support my work and help to preserve Cold War history via one off or monthly donations

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/for more details.

    Do join our Facebook discussion group where the cold war conversation continues between episodes. Just search Cold War Conversations on Facebook.

    I am delighted and honoured to welcome back Bernd von Kostka to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode207/

    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

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    0:00 Introduction and discussion on Berlin's role in the Cold War

    2:42 Historical significance of Teufelsberg in Berlin

    9:14 Listening stations in Berlin: Marienfelde and Templehof

    16:28 Collaboration between the Western powers in Berlin

    20:47 Technology and operations at Teufelsberg

    27:47 Infiltration of Field Station Berlin by Soviet and East German agents

    38:32 US counterintelligence's awareness of spy activities

    43:33 Exposure and fate of the spies post-arrest

    47:59 Fate of Teufelsberg after the Wall opened

    50:07 Sponsor: Promotion for Bernd's book "Capital of Spies"

    51:57 Closing remarks and promotion for the Cold War Conversations store

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    How a Soviet conscript became a NATO General (206) Oct 29, 2021

    In 1985, an eighteen-year-old named Riho Terras arrived at the Soviet armed forces’ large conscript assessment facility in Tallinn obeying his conscription orders.

    Little did he know that 26 years later he would be a NATO General.

    Riho shares his experiences in the Soviet Navy with us in some detail. We hear about his service on the Soviet frigate Zadornyy including trips to the Mediterranean and Cuba as well as monitoring NATO warships.

    Riho also shares his experiences of Estonian independence and the challenges of converting the country into an independent nation.

    I’m extremely grateful to Elisabeth Braw, a resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute who facilitated this interview via her Englebert Ideas essay.

    Thanks to all of you for listening to the podcast. It is an absolute passion for me to save these stories from being forgotten and sharing them weekly for free for everyone to hear.

    Whilst this is a passion, I am asking if each listener could make either a one-off or better still sign up for monthly donations to help me to find the time to produce and finance the project.

    If you’d like to know more 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 Riho Terras to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information about this episode here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode206/

    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/

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction and Riho Terras' early life in Estonia

    1:41 Sponsor: Call for listener support and donations

    9:06 Riho's military draft notice and initial experiences in the Soviet Navy

    16:41 Riho's unique experience as an artist in the Navy and decision to join a naval ship

    22:37 Riho's role and experiences on the Soviet naval ship in the Mediterranean

    27:43 Riho's experiences in Cuba and encounters with NATO warships

    36:19 Riho's return to Estonia, observations on its independence movement and joining the national guard

    47:39 Transitioning from Soviet Union to independent Estonia and its economic changes post-independence

    51:03 Riho joining the Estonian Armed Forces and progression through the ranks

    54:51 Influence of Riho's Soviet military experience on his career in the Estonian Armed Forces

    56:43 Conclusion and acknowledgements to patrons

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    Terrorism in the Cold War (205) Oct 22, 2021

    I talk with the writers and editors of Terrorism in the Cold War a new two volume book that uses a wide range of case studies including Polish Military Intelligence and Its Secret Relationship with the Abu Nidal Organization and Gladio – Myth and Reality: The Origins and Function of Stay Behind in the Case of Post-war Austria.

    The book sheds new light on the relations between state and terrorist actors, allowing for a fresh and much more insightful assessment of the contacts, dealings, agreements and collusion with terrorist organizations undertaken by state actors on both sides of the Iron Curtain.

    You will learn that these state-terrorism relationships were not only much more ambiguous than much of the older literature had suggested but are, in fact, crucial for the understanding of global political history in the Cold War era.

    If you are enjoying the podcast I could use some support to enable me to continue recording these incredible stories. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 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.

    There's more in the episode notes here coldwarconversations.com/episode205/

    I am delighted to welcome Thomas Riegler, Przemyslaw Gasztold and Adrian Hänni to our Cold War conversation…

    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/

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    0:00 Introduction

    0:10 Examination of state terrorism relationships during the Cold War era

    4:15 Debunking myths around Cold War terrorism

    10:23 Discussion on Eastern Bloc nations and their dealings with terrorist organizations

    17:16 Examination of the Italian Red Brigades' relationship with the Soviet Bloc

    23:23 Introduction to the case studies: Abu Nidal Organization and its leader

    33:51 Research into Polish military intelligence's relationship with the Abu Nidal Organization

    41:07 Introduction to Thomas Riegler's chapter: Gladio Myth and Reality

    53:46 The United Kingdom's development of a stay-behind network during the Cold War

    55:05 Acknowledgements and closing remarks

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    Emanuela - a Cold War Romanian Childhood (204) Oct 15, 2021

    Emanuela Grama was born in the mid-1970s’ in a small provincial town in Eastern Romania. She provides us with a great insight into life in the Romanian provinces during the 1980s.


    Emanuela lived in a small two-bedroom flat and tells of her parents working in a factory while her grandparents looked after her.

    Her father listened secretly to Radio Free Europe and collected stamps so he could legitimately write to people in the West.


    Her parents told her not to talk at school about what was said at home and to be very careful what she said to friends.


    Emanuela vividly recalls the day the revolution started in 1989, Emanuela was at home alone and she described the instant atmosphere of change and the weeks and months after.


    We also hear about Emanuela’s book, Socialist Heritage: The Politics of Past and Place in Romania which traces the transformation of Bucharest’s Old Town district where under socialism, politicians and professionals used the district’s historic buildings to emphasize the city’s Romanian past and erase its ethnically diverse history.


    I’m asking listeners to support my work and enable me to continue recording these incredible stories. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 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.


    Further details , including photos are in our episode notes at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode204/


    James Chilcott is our host and I am delighted to welcome James and Emanuela to our Cold War conversation…


    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/

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    0:00 Introduction and background of Emanuela Grama

    4:49 Absence of Jewish history in Romanian education and Emanuela's early life

    14:40 Emanuela's childhood, influence of Western literature, and school experience under communist regime

    26:55 Revelation of the fall of Ceausescu regime and experience during the revolution

    34:22 Introduction to Emanuela Grama's book 'Socialist Heritage' and discussion on political changes in Romania

    40:49 The state of Romanian high schools post 1990 and reflections on Romania's past and present

    46:24 Understanding ethnographic research and the ethnic diversity in Romania

    49:30 The rise of the secondhand clothes market and longing for Western media in Romania

    55:43 Emanuela's published poem and changes made by editors

    59:22 Closing remarks and mention of Cold War Conversations store

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    Pete - a BRIXMIS driver behind enemy lines in East Germany (203) Oct 08, 2021

    Pete Curran served with BRIXMIS, the British Military Liaison Mission in East Germany. Their operation was established by a post-WWII Allied occupation forces' agreement, where British, US and French missions had relative freedom to travel and collect intelligence throughout East Germany from 1947 until 1990.

    Pete’s story starts with details of his vetting interview, driver training, and his first tour in East Germany. We also hear of the intelligence scoops he was involved in and some of his close scrapes while evading both the Soviets and the Stasi including one with a Soviet helicopter.

    We also hear of the role of the driver in the three-man teams, the incredible camaraderie of the unit, as well as the pressure on their loved ones.

    I know from my stats that a lot of you really enjoy the podcast. It is an absolute passion for me to save these stories from being forgotten and sharing them weekly for free for everyone to hear.

    Whilst this is a passion, I am asking if each listener could make either a one-off or better still sign up for monthly donations to help me to find the time to produce and finance the project.

    If you’d like to know more 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 Pete Curran to our Cold War conversation…


    UK BRIXMIS books https://amzn.to/3ljkK6I

    US BRIXMIS books https://amzn.to/3ae2HZs

    There’s further information including videos here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode203

    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/

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    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    0:00 Introduction and guest introduction: Pete Curran

    3:00 Pete Curran's journey into BRIXMIS and training experiences

    8:40 Pete's first posting to Berlin and impressions

    15:21 Role of the Mission House and Pete's first mission to East Germany

    20:02 Interactions with other military liaison missions and vehicle maintenance

    24:45 Driver's decision-making authority and tour operations

    28:07 Memorable incidents during tours: The Halle Incident and evading a helicopter

    35:40 Reflections on the Andreotti incident and sharing experiences with other drivers

    41:40 Interactions with East German citizens and encounters with UK civilian vehicles

    45:29 The day the Berlin Wall came down and aftermath

    54:06 The camaraderie amongst the BRIXMIS and souvenirs from the time

    56:14 Acknowledgment of patrons and closing remarks

    57:21 Store advertisement and final goodbye

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    MKUltra - the CIA’s mind control project & the mysterious death of Frank Olson (202) Oct 01, 2021

    Frank Olson was an American bacteriologist, biological warfare scientist, and employee of the United States Army Biological Warfare Laboratories. In 1953 at a meeting in rural Maryland, he was covertly dosed with LSD by his boss Sidney Gottlieb, who was the head of the CIA's MKUltra mind control program.

    Nine days later, Olson plunged to his death from the window of the Hotel Statler. The U.S. government first described his death as a suicide, and then as misadventure, while others allege murder. The story was made into the Netflix film "Wormwood".

    I speak with Paul Vidich, the acclaimed author of The Coldest Warrior, An Honorable Man, The Good Assassin and The Mercenary. He is also the nephew of Frank Olson.

    UK link to Paul Vidich Books

    US link to Paul Vidich Books

    This podcast relies on listener support to enable me to continue to capture these incredible stories and make them available for free. You can support my work and help to preserve Cold War history via one-off or monthly donations

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ for more details.

    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 Paul Vidich to our Cold War conversation…

    Further information on this episode https://coldwarconversations.com/episode202/

    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/

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction and background of Frank Olsen

    2:22 Introduction to guest, Paul Vidich and his book, "The Coldest Warrior"

    5:29 Frank's involvement in the Artichoke Committee and MK Ultra

    18:40 Frank's psychological turmoil and the lead up to his mysterious death

    24:55 Investigation into Sydney Gottlieb's motives and the aftermath of Frank's death

    33:02 The Olsen family's pursuit for truth and meeting with President Ford

    38:04 Political implications of the Olsen case for President Ford's administration

    42:42 Connection between the Olsen case and harsh interrogation programs

    45:48 Meetings with key figures from the MK Ultra project

    50:38 Exhumation and examination of Frank Olsen's body

    57:01 Thanks to patrons, episode notes, Facebook group, and store

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    Flying into nuclear mushroom clouds (201) Sep 24, 2021

    Squadron Leader John Robinson AFC (ret’d) was an RAF pilot who was tasked to fly into the mushroom clouds of nuclear bomb tests to capture samples at Operation Buffalo at Maralinga in 1956, and Operation Grapple, at Christmas Island in 1957.

    He tells of his recruitment into RAF, initial training and his cloud sampling missions as well his experiences of watching the tests from as little as five miles away.

    It is reckoned that over 22,000 British servicemen participated in the British and American nuclear tests and clean-ups between 1952-1965, along with scientists from the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment and civilians. The majority of men have passed away, and around a tenth of the men remain.

    I was honoured that the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association (BNVTA) invited me to their annual reunion and enabled me to capture some of their veterans’ stories.

    I could really use your help to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become 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 John Robinson to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information including videos on this link https://coldwarconversations.com/episode201/

    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/

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction and Squadron Leader John Robinson's Cold War journey

    2:03 Sponsor: Cold War Conversations' Patron Support

    4:13 John Robinson's early career and Cold War aircraft training

    15:11 Special duties in Australia and encounter with atom bombs

    28:30 The mission into the mushroom cloud and gathering radiation data

    34:33 Life in Christmas Island and preparations for larger weapons

    45:52 Post atom bomb missions and John's illness

    48:19 John Robinson's radiation exposure and journey back home

    52:04 High altitude sampling and ditching the aircraft plan

    53:42 Closing remarks by Ian Sanders and appreciation for patrons

    54:50 Cold War Conversations store reminder

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    Life in the underground Soviet music scene Part 3 (200) Sep 17, 2021

    We hear of Joanna's heartbreak when her visa is refused, preventing her from marrying Yuri. However, using an ingenious method she manages an emotional reunion and eventual marriage as the Soviet Union begins to dissolve.


    Details of the book giveaway are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode200/


    Part one is here and part 2 here


    Joanna’s book, Red Wave written with her singer/songwriter daughter, Madison, includes Stingray’s extensive collection of photographs, artworks, and interviews with the musicians.


    Buy the book and support the podcast here

    UK listeners https://amzn.to/3rwItSz

    US listeners https://amzn.to/3zyvbHX

    If you are enjoying the podcasts I’m asking for donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 Joanna Stingray to our Cold War conversation


    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


    0:00 Introduction and book giveaway announcement

    2:54 Interview with Joanna Stingray begins

    12:08 Joanna's risky journey to Leningrad with her mother

    24:34 Joanna's reunion and NBC coverage in Russia

    30:19 Joanna's dilemma about leaving Russia and her marriage

    34:03 Rise of rock bands amidst political changes in Russia

    39:16 Joanna's unconventional Russian wedding

    46:07 Impact of Glasnost and fall of communism on Russian bands

    51:05 Shift in Russian society and music taste in the 90s

    53:53 Closing remarks and patron acknowledgements

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    Life in the underground Soviet music scene Part 2 (199) Sep 14, 2021

    Joanna is questioned by the KGB and the FBI, falls in love with Yuri and starts to smuggle the bands' music out of the Soviet Union to produce the album.


    Details of the book giveaway are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode199/


    Part one is here and part 3 here


    Joanna’s book, Red Wave written with her singer/songwriter daughter, Madison, includes Stingray’s extensive collection of photographs, artworks, and interviews with the musicians.


    Buy the book and support the podcast here

    UK listeners https://amzn.to/3rwItSz

    US listeners https://amzn.to/3zyvbHX

    If you are enjoying the podcasts I’m asking for donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 Joanna Stingray to our Cold War conversation…




    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction and Joanna Stingray's background

    3:15 Joanna Stingray's first encounter with the KGB

    9:27 Joanna's experiences with the band Kino and living in Soviet Union

    15:11 The idea of bringing Soviet music to the US and collaboration with David Bowie

    20:12 Struggles with record companies and signing with Big Time Records

    22:29 Dealing with the FBI and KGB while collecting content for the album

    26:57 Reception of the Red Wave album and its impact

    31:20 Smuggling the Red Wave album into the Soviet Union

    40:10 Meeting with the KGB and proposal from Yuri

    46:38 Joanna Stingray's changing relationship with Russia and the music scene

    54:00 Preview of the next episode and closing remarks

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    Life in the underground Soviet music scene Part 1 (198) Sep 10, 2021

    Joanna Stingray was only 23 years old when she first set foot in the USSR and started meeting now-legendary musicians and artists of the Soviet underground. By 1985, she was writing and recording with them, and smuggling their music to the West in order to produce the groundbreaking album Red Wave: 4 Underground Bands from the USSR.

    This is her testimony of youthful fortitude and rebellion, her love story, and proof of the power of music and youth culture over stagnancy and oppression.


    Details of the book giveaway are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode198/


    Part 2 is here and part 3 here

    Joanna’s book, Red Wave written with her singer/songwriter daughter, Madison, includes Stingray’s extensive collection of photographs, artworks, and interviews with the musicians.

    Buy the book and support the podcast here

    UK listeners https://amzn.to/3rwItSz

    US listeners https://amzn.to/3zyvbHX

    If you are enjoying the podcasts I’m asking for donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 Joanna Stingray 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.

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.

    Help Support the podcast by shopping at Amazon.

    https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/bestsellers/books/12447630031/ref=pd_zg_hrsr_books&tag=cwcp-21

    Help support the podcast with a CWC mug or maybe a t-shirt?

    https://www.redbubble.com/people/Coldwarpod/shop?asc=u


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and Joanna Stingray's journey into the Soviet Underground

    1:23 Sponsor: Patreon introduction and shoutout

    2:46 Joanna's initial career plans and first visit to Russia

    6:14 Joanna's struggle with communication and parental concerns

    11:38 Joanna's first meeting with Boris Grebenschikov

    14:17 Joanna's first visit to a Soviet apartment

    18:27 Joanna's realization about her own music and the language of music

    23:04 Joanna's experience at an underground concert and promise to return to Russia

    29:49 Joanna's offer to help the Russian music scene

    36:38 Joanna's first experience at a Russian rock concert and impressions of Soviet bands

    44:00 Joanna's backstage experiences and encounter with the KGB

    46:40 Ian's closing remarks and Sponsor: Patreon acknowledgement

    48:21 Cold War Conversations online store promotion

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    Popular Cold War culture of the 1980s (197) Sep 07, 2021

    Over the past, nearly two decades, the Stuck in the 80s podcast has emerged as the go-to for all aspects of 1980s nostalgia from a North American point of view. And, much like Cold War Conversations, Stuck in the 80s is an award-winning podcast.

    Recognizing that decade’s popular culture was heavily influenced by the Cold War, co-host Peter Ryan organized a discussion with its curators, Steve Spears and Brad Williams.

    Key topics that are covered include some of the most important songs, films, television programs of the 80s that were Cold War oriented, some of which may surprise listeners. Also discussed are the key personalities of the 1980s Cold War period, from both sides of the Iron Curtain.

    This special edition of Cold War Conversations will also features a playlist on Spotify, featuring many of the songs discussed during this lively episode. We thank Brad and Steve for the chance to organize a cross-podcast discussion today and encourage listeners to visit their website sit80s.com to learn more about their dedication to keeping the nostalgia of the 1980s alive.

    Help me to continue producing the podcast. Single or monthly donations really helps keep the podcast on the air.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 Peter Ryan, Steve Spears and Brad Williams to our Cold War conversation…


    Videos relating to this episode are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode197/

    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.

    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/

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    Soviet and U.S. Military Liaison Missions & US Counterintelligence SOXMIS & USMLM (196) Sep 03, 2021

    I speak with Aden Magee who operated as the commander of a highly specialized Counterintelligence (CI) unit in West Germany during the last decade of the Cold War.

    We talk about his book The Cold War Wilderness of Mirrors - Counterintelligence and the U.S. and Soviet Military Liaison Missions 1947–1990. This is a rare book that details some never-before documented accounts of the Soviet Military Liaison Mission (SMLM) in West Germany and the U.S. Military Liaison Mission (USMLM) in East Germany and shows how they were microcosms of the Cold War strategic intelligence and counterintelligence landscape.

    I also discuss with Aden how the book shows the impact of CIA Director James Angleton’s legacy which restricted counterintelligence operations long after his departure.


    Buy the book and help support the podcast.

    UK listeners buy here

    US listeners buy here

    What do you think the podcast is worth to you?


    Single or monthly donations really help keep the podcast on the air.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    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.

    I am delighted to welcome Aden Magee to our Cold War conversation…


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction and discussion about weapons cache sites and suitcase nukes

    0:17 Introduction to guest Aden McGee and his new book about strategic intelligence and counterintelligence during the Cold War

    2:05 Sponsor: Podcast donations and mention of the Cold War Conversations Facebook group

    3:47 Importance of documenting Cold War stories and in-depth discussion on the Soviet military liaison missions

    10:35 Rotation of tours in East Germany and their intelligence collection capabilities

    14:47 US's approach to counterintelligence and the importance of the USMLM's collection asset

    19:04 Soviet's stance on guarding their SMLM/SOXMIS post and the normalization of ramming and shooting incidents under international law

    24:14 Access to the Soviet military liaison mission compound and its implications

    28:35 Likelihood of more covert activities by the Soviet military liaison mission

    34:32 U.S. intelligence betrayals to the Soviets and the impact on the Cold War

    53:42 Soviet penetration agents in the FBI and CIA and case of KGB Colonel Yachenko

    1:00:32 Lack of urgency in addressing the mole issue within the CIA and the damaging impact of Aldrich Ames' betrayal

    1:06:21 Conclusion and introduction of Aden Magee's book "The Cold War Wilderness of Mirrors"

    1:06:57 Sponsor: Acknowledgement of the show's patrons and call to action for listener support

    1:07:25 Closing remarks and goodbye from host Ian Sanders

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    Ron - a veteran of the Korean War & the Malayan Emergency (195) Aug 27, 2021

    Ron Knight served in the Royal Marines on HMS Belfast during the Korean War of 1950-53. He was a gunner and describes the shore bombardments and how his gun was used in anti-aircraft defence. We also hear Ron describe life aboard the Belfast during this period

    Ron also served with the Royal Marine Commando during the Malayan Emergency which was a guerrilla war fought in the Federation of Malaya between Communist pro-independence fighters against the armed forces of the British Empire and Commonwealth between 1948 and 1960.

    He shares details of the dangers of jungle warfare including from their own air force!

    I’m asking listeners to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 am delighted to welcome Ron Knight to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information on this episode here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode195/

    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.

    Please leave a review.

    If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a written review.


    0:00 Introduction and Ron Knight's early life and training

    2:35 Ron Knight's experiences in the Royal Marines and HMS Belfast

    9:01 Discussing air attacks on HMS Belfast and life on board

    17:42 Royal Marines' shore raids and interactions with American forces

    20:20 Shift in relations with Japan and interactions with Chinese and North Korean POWs

    21:45 Encounter with Typhoon Ruth and its impact on HMS Belfast

    26:58 Incident of a man overboard and transfer to 45 commando

    29:23 Ron Knight's experiences in the Korean and Malayan jungles

    38:20 Communication, safety measures and recognizing friendly units in the jungle

    43:39 Reflecting on dangerous moments in service and transition to HMS Victory

    51:13 Outro and Patron Acknowledgement

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    The Gouzenko Affair - the start of the Cold War (194) Aug 20, 2021

    Igor Gouzenko exposed Soviet intelligence's efforts to steal nuclear secrets as well as the technique of planting sleeper agents. The "Gouzenko Affair" is often credited as a triggering event of the Cold War, with historian Jack Granatstein stating it was "the beginning of the Cold War for public opinion" and journalist Robert Fulford writing he was "absolutely certain the Cold War began in Ottawa".

    I talk with Andrew Kavchak the author of Remembering Gouzenko: The Struggle to Honour a Cold War Hero and Evy Wilson, the daughter of Igor and Svetlana Gouzenko.

    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 Andrew and Evy to our Cold War conversation…


    There’s further information on this episode can be found here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode194/

    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 and Background of Igor Gouzenko

    2:41 Interview with Andrew Kavchak and Evie Wilson begins

    13:55 Aftermath of Gouzenko's Defection and the Following Trials

    23:30 Introduction of Evie Wilson, Daughter of Igor Guzenko

    33:55 Wilson Family's Relocation and Life in the Greater Toronto Area

    43:33 Evie's Discovery of Her Family's Unique Situation and Origin

    52:36 The Incident of the Wilsons' Mailbox Getting Blown Up

    1:00:22 Evy Wilson's Life and Relatives in the Soviet Union

    1:04:26 Andrew Kavchak's Journey to Commemorate the Gouzenko Story

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    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    Flying the F-111 nuclear bomber (193) Aug 13, 2021

    Rick Shreve was a USAF F111 pilot based at RAF Lakenheath in the UK. We hear about his early USAF career as a fighter pilot, then we move onto his transfer to the F111 and how he was trained to carry out nuclear as well as conventional missions against the Warsaw Pact forces in Europe. He describes his low-level training missions to attack targets in the Soviet Union and East Germany and recalls a near-fatal incident amongst the Scottish lochs.

    Rick was also part of one of the crews that flew on Operation El Dorado Canyon, the operation to bomb Libya in April 1986 in retaliation for the West Berlin discotheque bombing ten days earlier.

    Rick gives you a frank view of his role in the USAF and his approach to the huge responsibilities he carried.

    In his later career, he flew civil airliners with Pan-Am and recalls how he was astonished to fly over the Warsaw Pact airfield he had been tasked to attack in the event of war…

    If you have listened this far, I know you are enjoying the podcasts so I’m asking for donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become 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, 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 Rick to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information including photos and videos here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode193/

    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.

    0:00 Introduction and Rick Shreve's initial experiences in the Air Force

    10:00 Rick's experiences with debriefing, training evaluations, and handling nukes

    16:18 Rick's transfer to RAF Lakenheath and differences between flying an F 111 and the F4 Phantom

    26:24 Noise complaints, rules for flying in different countries, and Rick's training in escape and evasion

    37:27 Details of a nuclear mission and Rick's view on dropping a nuclear weapon

    46:04 Operation El Dorado Canyon: The 1986 bombing of Libya

    56:11 Role as the Nuclear Alert Force Commander at Lakenheath

    1:00:33 Salty Nation: Preparing for operational readiness inspections

    1:13:48 Rick Shreve discusses dangerous flying incidents and the mindset of military pilots

    1:19:46 Rick Shreve's transition to Pan Am and his involvement in Desert Storm

    1:24:13 Reminder for listeners to visit our Facebook discussion group

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

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    The forgotten cosmonaut (192) Aug 10, 2021

    This week it's the 60th anniversary of the flight of Gherman Titov on Vostok 2. The forgotten 2nd cosmonaut overshadowed by the exploits of his friend Yuri Gagarin.

    Titov’s 25.3 hours and 17 orbits flight was much more ambitious than Gagarin’s and more dangerous. It was also a very political flight, intending to distract the world from the building of the Berlin Wall a number of days later.

    However, there’s more to Titov than his flight, he was different character to most of the Soviet cosmonauts with a love of pre-Soviet literary classics and enjoying his own company.

    He was also one of the most colourful characters of the Soviet space program leading a wild life back on Earth with various car crashes and scrapes.

    I’m sure regular listeners will be pleased to hear we have Stephen Walker back, the author of Beyond: The Astonishing Story of the First Human to Leave Our Planet and Journey into Space.


    Do check out our previous episode on Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode172/

    I’m asking listeners to support my work and enable me to continue recording these incredible stories. If you become a monthly supporter via Patreon, 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 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.

    I am delighted to welcome Stephen Walker back 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/episode192

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.

    0:00 Introduction and overview of German Titov's character

    0:45 The political implications of Titov's groundbreaking flight

    2:20 Guest introduction: Stephen Walker

    3:53 The Cold War context of Titov's flight

    7:22 Titov's rebellious nature and the cosmonaut program's rule-breaking

    26:37 Training for Titov's mission, Vostok 2

    29:24 The significance and firsts of Titov's 25-hour mission

    35:14 Titov's life post-mission: fame, scandal, and tragedy

    42:13 The technical issues and risks of Titov's mission

    47:38 Titov's role in the Soviet Moon mission and the Spiral project

    52:23 Reflections on Titov's legacy and closing remarks

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    A workers view of Poland from Łódź in 1986 (191) Aug 06, 2021

    Evan McGilvray has written a number of books on Poland as well as biographies. He is well versed in Poland and Polish society and away from the usual locations of Krakow and Warsaw.

    Evan first visited Poland in 1986, 5 years after the declaration of martial law which triggered the suppression of the free trade union Solidarity in December 1981. He visited some friends he had made via correspondence, who lived in the city of Łódź. He provides us with a great insight away from the intelligentsia as his friends were workers. We hear in some detail how the communist party was perceived, life as a worker, as well as views on Lech Walesa and Solidarity.

    In the 1990s Evan interviewed General Jaruzelski, who as First Secretary of the Polish United Workers' Party (aka the communist party) gave the martial law order in 1981 and remained head of state until 1989.

    Extra info, and videos are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode191/

    If you are enjoying the podcast please tell 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/

    Peter Ryan is our host today and I am delighted to welcome Evan McGilvray 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.

    0:00 Introduction

    3:00 Interview with Evan McGilvray: His interest in Poland and first impressions

    16:45 Life in Poland: The average worker, shopping, self-sufficiency, and popular culture

    26:16 Surveillance and influence of the Catholic church in Poland

    29:07 Impressions and interactions with the communist regime in Poland

    33:05 Impressions of the Soviet Union and Russian forces in Poland

    36:21 Impressions of Lech Walesa in Poland and his transition to mainstream

    40:19 Contacts with solidarity in Poland and encounters with General Jaruzelski

    44:56 General Jaruzelski's efforts to correct the record

    49:33 Reminder to check out extra information and videos

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Unforgotten in the Gulf of Tonkin (190) Jul 30, 2021

    On November 18, 1965, U.S. Navy pilot Willie Sharp ejected from his F-8 fighter after being hit while positioned over a target in North Vietnam. With a cloud layer beneath him, he did not know if he was over land-where he would most certainly be captured or killed by the North Vietnamese or over the Gulf of Tonkin. As he ejected, both navy and air force aircraft were already heading toward him to help.

    Thanks to Dennis DeFreitas and his Youtube video of Willie’s shootdown available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Md9oNlLYEr8

    Co-host James Chilcott speaks with former military flight test engineer Eileen A. Bjorkman, who has written “Unforgotten in the Gulf of Tonkin A Story of the U.S. Military's Commitment to Leave No One Behind” The book includes nail-biting descriptions of air combat, flight, and rescue as Bjorkman places Willie Sharp's story in the larger context of the U.S. military's bedrock credo-No Man Left Behind-and calls attention to the more than eighty thousand Americans still missing from conflicts since World War I. She also explores the devastating aftershocks of the Vietnam War as Willie Sharp struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder.


    Buy the book and support the Podcast

    UK listeners buy the book here https://amzn.to/3rtpJDe

    US Listeners buy the book here https://amzn.to/3zwLVPA

    If you have listened this far, I know you are enjoying the podcasts so I’m asking for donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become 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 Eileen Bjorkman to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information and details of our book giveaway here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode190/

    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.

    T0:00 Introduction and Overview of the episode

    2:47 Guest Introduction: Eileen Bjorkman

    6:37 Combat Search and Rescue during the Vietnam War

    11:53 Willie Sharp's Mission and Rescue Operation

    28:56 Willie's Ejection, Descent, and Capture

    40:31 Willie's Escape and Confrontation with Fishermen

    47:17 Final Rescue Operation and Post-Rescue Plans

    52:04 Improvements in Rescue Operations during the War

    1:02:08 Reflection on Dramatic Events and Acknowledgment of Patrons

    1:03:21 Encouragement to Join Facebook Discussion Group and Closing Remarks

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    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Philippe - A French soldier in Cold War Berlin (189) Jul 23, 2021

    The French Forces in Berlin were the units of the French Armed Forces stationed from 1945 until the end of the Cold War-era in West Berlin according to the agreements of the Yalta Conference and Potsdam Conference.

    The troops were the French counterparts to the United States' Berlin Brigade and the United Kingdom's Berlin Infantry Brigade in the city.

    Philippe was stationed in Berlin from 1972 to 1973 with the French army for his military service. He did not volunteer and was not too happy at first, but started enjoying life outside of the “Quartier Napoleon” as it was called, near the Tegel airport.

    His role was in Signals intelligence and during the day he listened to FM radio transmissions of the East German Army as well as the Soviets (GFSA).

    If you are enjoying the podcast, you can help me to keep producing these episodes by a small monthly donation 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, 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 Philippe to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information on this episode here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode189/

    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.

    0:00 Introduction and Philippe's experience in Berlin

    4:58 Philippe's training and move to Landau

    13:43 Philippe's posting to Berlin and initial impressions

    18:15 French counterintelligence's investigation into Philippe's relationship

    22:35 The French sector in Berlin and tensions with American interests

    28:42 French military lifestyle in Berlin

    33:53 Attitude of Berlin locals towards foreign soldiers

    38:39 Sightseeing and political discussions in East Berlin

    46:30 Leaving Berlin and life after service

    50:31 Communication and encryption methods during the Cold War

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    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    A Czechoslovak family's escape to Austria (188) Jul 16, 2021

    We continue Drea Hahn’s story with her family’s escape to Austria and the realities of being a refugee.

    In 1986, under the pretext of a “ski trip” to Yugoslavia Drea’s family escaped to Austria. We hear about the sadness of being unable to tell anyone they were leaving and how her relatives were summoned to the police station to be detained for questioning. They didn’t communicate with anyone at “home” until 1989 or 1990 because it was too dangerous.

    Once, in Austria, there was no certainty that that Drea’s family wouldn’t be handed back to Czechoslovakia as Austria was neutral and the government was keen to stay on good terms with their neighbours.

    Drea’s family were in Austria for about 2 years living in a single room with a shared bathroom. We hear from her about the challenges of life as a child refugee in rural Austria.

    In 1988 permission was granted to emigrate to the US and we hear of their elation when they arrive.

    Extra info, photos and videos are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode188

    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. 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 Drea Hahn back to our Cold War conversation…

    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.

    0:00 Introduction to Drea Hahn's family's escape from Czechoslovakia

    1:27 Listener support and testimonials

    8:08 Comparison of individual and family escapes from the Eastern Bloc

    12:04 Access to STB files and the decision to escape

    19:20 Planning and executing the escape to Austria

    27:36 The tense border crossing and seeking asylum in Austria

    33:07 Adjusting to life as refugees in Austria

    41:28 Visit from grandparents and the Czechoslovakian government's persuasion program

    45:48 Journey to America and initial days in the new country

    51:03 The fall of the Berlin Wall and the Velvet Revolution: Impact and decisions

    57:50 The role of Cold War Conversations podcast in uncovering personal histories

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    Drea - A Cold War Czechoslovak childhood (187) Jul 09, 2021

    Drea Hahn was born in Czechoslovakia in 1980 in Teplice. Her mother was a secretary and her father was an engineer but refused to join the communist party and this was a source of tension in Drea’s family.

    She was partly raised by her grandparents and her grandmother shared stories about growing up in “the Protectorate”, the name given to the area of Czechoslovakia occupied by the Germans in World War 2.

    Drea tells of a typical Czech childhood – her school friends, fond memories of school trips, and summers at their chata (country house).

    A more sinister side of life was getting in trouble for being a chatty kid and being cautioned with the phrase “walls have ears”.

    Extra info, and videos are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode187/

    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. 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 get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast and 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 Drea Hahn to our Cold War conversation…

    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.

    0:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Drea Hahn

    0:47 Request for listener support

    2:29 Drea's fascination with everyday history and her decision to share her experiences

    7:54 Drea's family background during World War 2

    15:14 The presence and regulation of religion in Czechoslovakia during the Cold War

    17:47 The impact of socialism and communism on daily life

    21:35 Misconceptions about the isolation of the Eastern Bloc

    30:56 Drea's parents' wedding and her birth

    33:29 Ideological teachings in school and the fear of non-conformity

    38:16 Travel restrictions and permits within Eastern Bloc countries

    44:13 Membership in the Communist Party and the associated documentation

    47:50 Teaser for the next episode

    48:26 Acknowledging the supporters and patrons of the podcast

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    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    An evening with Kim Philby (186) Jul 06, 2021

    Ben Brown is the writer of A Splinter of Ice, a play that portrays the meeting in Moscow in 1987 of one of the greatest novelists of the 20th century, Graham Greene and his old MI6 boss, Kim Philby, one of Britain's most notorious spies... and a traitor.


    Graham Greene never divulged any details of the meeting and Ben’s play imagines what might have been. We discuss the play, as well as how Philby and Greene’s lives intertwined.


    It’s a story of two men catching up on old times, but with a new world order breaking around them how much did the writer of The Third Man know about Philby's secret life as a spy? Did Philby betray his friend as well as his country..?


    A trailer and other videos are available in our episode notes here www.coldwarconversations.com/episode186/


    If you have listened this far, I know you are enjoying the podcasts so I’m asking for one-off or monthly donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become 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 Ben Brown to our Cold War conversation…


    There’s further information on this episode here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode186/


    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 to the episode and discussion on "A Splinter of Ice"

    3:07 Deep dive into Kim Philby’s life, his relationship with Graham Green, and their portrayal in the media

    17:25 Exploration of Philby's rise in the security services and overlooked communist credentials

    25:05 Discussion on why Green left MI6 and the research used for the play

    31:05 Examination of John La Carre's opinion of Philby and his influence on La Carre's work

    35:04 Discussion on the political climate in the 1930s, the rise of fascism and its impact

    44:59 Discussion on actors' preparation for their roles in the play

    51:35 Exploration of Philby's life in Russia, his struggles and the role of Ruth in his life

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    Behind enemy lines in East Germany with a US Military Liaison Mission driver Part 2 (185) Jul 02, 2021

    We return to the 2nd part of Tom Favia’s story with the US Military Liaison Mission which the Soviet Union permitted to operate in East Germany, ostensibly for monitoring and furthering better relationships between the Soviet and Western occupation forces. The British & French also had missions as did the Soviets in West Germany.


    Part 1 is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode183/

    As you would expect there are some incredible incidents that Tom shares with us including one with a drunk Soviet Major who tries to defect. Tom was with USMLM when the Wall opened in Nov 1989 and describes the uncertainty of the time with Soviet soldiers selling parts of tanks and munitions.

    If you have listened this far, I know you are enjoying the podcasts so I’m asking for donations to support my work and enable me to continue producing the podcast. If you become 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, 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 back Tom Favia to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information on this episode can be found here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode185

    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.

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.


    Please leave a review.

    If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a written review.


    0:00 Introduction and Tom Favia's experiences with the US military liaison mission

    1:23 Request for donations and benefits for monthly supporters

    2:56 Tensions and incidents with the Soviets

    7:36 Dealing with Stasi and interactions with East German citizens

    13:19 Disclosure of mission details and important findings

    21:30 The opening and aftermath of the Berlin Wall

    27:11 Challenges post the fall of the Berlin Wall and other intelligence organizations

    31:33 Experiences leading up to unification day in East Germany

    34:07 Recruitment into the on-site inspection agency and working out of Frankfurt

    38:33 Cold War souvenirs and remembering fallen comrades

    43:25 Episode wrap up, acknowledgements of patrons, and sign off

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    Ethel Rosenberg (184) Jun 25, 2021

    Ethel Rosenberg is a controversial figure and generates polarising views varying from an innocent mother caught up in Cold War hysteria to a willing and ruthless accomplice to her husband’s Cold War espionage betraying secrets to the Soviets.

    Anne Sebba’s new book “Ethel Rosenberg – A Cold War tragedy” (“An American tragedy” in the US) provides a more nuanced view of Ethel that is not just about innocence and guilt but of a talented singer and mother of two children, betrayed by her family and the American judicial system. Aged 37, in 1953 she becomes the first woman in American history to be executed for a crime other than murder.

    Whatever your views about Ethel Rosenberg this episode will detail more of who Ethel was and how the American judicial system was manipulated to ensure her conviction.

    Anne’s book is available on these links.

    UK listeners https://amzn.to/3wGZD1z

    US listeners https://amzn.to/2TObJra

    If you’ve listened this far, I know you are enjoying the podcasts so I’m asking for a small monthly donation to support my work and allow me to continue producing the podcast. 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, 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 Anne Sebba to our Cold War conversations...


    There's more information as well as a book giveaway in the episode notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode184/

    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.


    0:00 Introduction to Ethel Rosenberg's story

    1:32 Request for financial support for the podcast

    5:10 Ethel Rosenberg's early life and family

    12:26 The political climate in 1936 and Ethel's meeting with Julius Rosenberg

    16:14 The changing perceptions of the Soviet Union and Ethel and Julius's loyalty

    27:31 Book giveaway announcement

    33:30 Ethel's knowledge of Julius's espionage activities and the arrest

    41:25 Legal proceedings and Ethel's decision to take the 5th Amendment

    47:21 Discussion on the Vannona decrypts and Ethel's role

    54:08 Importance and relevance of Ethel's story today

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    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Behind enemy lines in East Germany with a US Military Liaison Mission driver Part 1 (183) Jun 18, 2021

    Tom Favia served with the USMLM, The US Military Liaison Mission which the Soviet Union permitted to operate in East Germany at the end of World War 2 for monitoring and furthering better relationships between the Soviet and Western occupation forces. The British & French also had missions in East Germany and the Soviets has theirs in West Germany.

    Tom tells the amazing story of his recruitment from being an art student to being deployed “behind enemy lines” in East Germany. He also describes his earlier career on the Inner German border and then we move to his USMLM career. We hear about his driver training, planning procedures and the process for exiting West Berlin as well as details of the vehicles including the “James Bond switches”.

    If you’ve listened this far, I know you are enjoying the podcasts so I’m asking for a small monthly donation to support my work and allow me to continue producing the podcast. 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, 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 Tom Favia to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s further information on this episode can be found here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode183/


    Part 2 is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode185

    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 – goodbye.

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.


    0:00 Introduction and guest introduction

    3:08 Journey of Tom Favia from art school to the US Army

    9:56 Tom Favia's role on the inner German border and experiences

    17:18 Arrival and first impressions of West Berlin and initial training

    25:11 Changes to recruitment and training after the Nicholson incident

    33:10 Operational and representational headquarters in East and West Berlin

    39:30 Gathering information from the Soviets at parties

    44:34 Procedures for a mission and crossing from West Berlin to East Germany

    51:08 Navigation and target selection during Cold War

    1:00:17 Incidents where the Soviets tried to hinder their mission

    1:01:33 Acknowledging the patrons and show wrap-up

    Table of contents powered by PodcastAI✨


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    Ralph - A prisoner in an East German jail (182) Jun 11, 2021

    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.


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations


    0:00 Introduction and podcast award announcement

    1:07 Life in the Stasi Prison: Conditions and Dangers

    3:08 Transfer to Caughtpus Starzy prison and initial experiences

    13:15 Treatment by guards and fear of a massacre

    18:38 Experience of the open border and release from prison

    27:25 First impressions of the West and arrival in West Berlin

    34:13 Relocation to West Germany and reunion with former workmates

    38:06 Moving to Switzerland, opening Kung Fu schools, and mysterious bank account

    46:21 Mysterious illness and suspicion towards a woman from work

    54:01 Decision to leave Germany and move to Canada

    59:23 Ralph's theory about the doppelganger and the secret service

    1:01:19 Acknowledgement of the podcast patrons

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    Ralph - Arrested and interrogated by the Stasi (181) Jun 04, 2021

    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/


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations


    0:00 Introduction and Ralph Hänel's encounter with the Stasi (Ministry of State Security)

    2:21 Ralph's life in East Germany and his dreams of moving to the West

    7:10 Ralph's arrest and interrogation process by the Ministry of State Security

    17:45 The roles of the three interrogation officers and their psychological tactics

    25:14 The court procedure, sentence, and Ralph's suspicions

    28:10 Living conditions in prison and Ralph's relationship with his cellmate

    32:11 Ralph's mother's interactions with the Stasi and her constant surveillance

    43:32 Ralph's audacious move during his interrogation and the involvement of a Western lawyer

    52:18 The sentencing process, the charges, and Ralph's coerced confession

    57:17 The 'modern slave trade' of East Germany's political prisoners and Ralph's resilience

    59:16 Encouragement to join the Cold War Conversations Facebook group and support the show

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    Checkmate in Berlin: The Cold War Showdown that Shaped the Modern World (180) May 28, 2021

    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

    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction and Giles Milton's new book "Checkmate in Berlin" discussion

    2:34 Interview with Giles Milton and introduction of key players in Berlin (1945-1949)

    7:53 Occupation of Berlin and agreement at Yalta for the occupation of Berlin

    15:48 Management of Berlin through the "Kommandatura" and key disagreements

    23:41 The looming showdown and the Defection of Igor Gouzenko

    27:28 Formation of political parties in occupied Berlin and Soviet strategy to control Berlin's administration

    33:01 Cultural and propaganda battles in Berlin

    35:24 Differing views on managing post-war Germany and the shift from dismantling to rebuilding Germany

    43:35 The concept of a siege: The Soviets' strategy to control Berlin and the dangers of the air corridors

    51:17 The Berlin airlift, its challenges and involvement of Lucius Clay, Colonel Frank Howley and Bill Turner

    1:08:25 Invitation to join the Facebook discussion group

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    Bonus - The state funeral of Josef Stalin (179) May 25, 2021

    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.

    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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    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) May 21, 2021

    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/

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    Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction

    1:08 Discussion on the topic: The Spy Who Was Left Out In the Cold

    3:51 Interview with Tim Tate and Goleniewski's importance in the Cold War

    14:38 Goliansky's defection and personal life complexities

    24:27 The arrest of Soviet spies and Goleniewski's debriefing process

    33:36 Goleniewski's trial and his rise in Polish intelligence

    38:06 Impact of other defections on Goleniewski's CIA status

    46:24 Public revelation of Goleniewski's story and his financial struggles

    54:57 Goleniewski's claim to be Prince Alexei Romanov and second bigamous marriage

    1:00:16 Polish intelligence's failed scheme to infiltrate Goleniewski's circle

    1:09:39 Analysis of Golitszin's motivations and his effect on Western Intelligence

    1:20:01 Possible movie adaptations of Goleniewski's story and his erasure from Cold War history

    1:26:07 Acknowledging patrons and how to support the show

    0:00 of contents powered by PodcastAI✨

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    Ralph - DJing and Kung Fu in East Germany (177) May 14, 2021

    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.



    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


    0:00 Introduction and Ralph Hänel's childhood in East Germany

    7:01 Ralph's experiences as a DJ and trip to the Soviet Union

    15:18 Life in East Germany: Dichotomy and the black market for Western records

    22:56 Encounters with famous people in East Germany

    27:33 Ralph's journey into martial arts and a secret judo club

    35:14 Communication with the West: Pen pals and smuggling books

    46:53 Living in East Berlin: Observations and encounters

    1:00:26 Ralph Hänel's life in East Berlin during the Cold War

    1:15:29 Challenges of East-West communication under Secret Service surveillance

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    Irish Army peacekeeping in the Lebanon (176) May 07, 2021

    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…


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations


    0:00 Introduction and early life of Adrian Jones

    2:08 SListener Donations Request

    7:34 Discussion on the role of the Irish military in global peacekeeping

    16:23 Irish neutrality during the Cold War

    24:55 Adrian's deployment to Lebanon: preparations and initial impressions

    30:12 The mission in South Lebanon and changing political landscape

    50:24 Reflections on the Lebanon tour and challenges of peacekeeping

    1:00:00 Navigating communication and politics in a pre-cell phone era

    1:04:00 Looking back at the time in Lebanon and closure

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    Codename Hero - Soviet double agent Oleg Penkovsky (175) Apr 30, 2021

    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.


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction and guest - Jeremy Duns

    2:33 The story of Soviet Colonel Oleg Penkovsky and his disillusionment with the Soviet Union

    10:17 The intelligence Penkovsky provided to MI6 and CIA and its impact

    23:30 The lack of satellite cover over the Soviet Union and Penkovsky's methods of passing information

    30:06 The complications and aftermath of Penkovsky's discovery and his influence on the Cuban Missile Crisis

    36:00 Arrests of Penkovsky and Greville Wynn, Wynn's trial and sentence

    42:31 The fate of Oleg Penkovsky and how he was betrayed

    45:32 DCode Name Hero: books on Oleg Pankovsky

    46:07 Sponsor: Acknowledging patron support

    46:58 End of episode and thanks to listeners

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    Korean war veteran & prisoner of war (174) Apr 23, 2021

    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.


    Extra 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 lost. 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 Tommy Clough 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.

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated

    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and Tommy Clough's first encounter with the enemy

    2:39 Sponsor: History of War Magazine and request for financial support

    2:49 Tommy Clough's enlistment and journey to Korea

    13:45 Encounters and incidents during the advance towards the Yellow River

    22:30 Observations at the Imjin River and the ensuing Chinese attack

    30:18 The desperate measures and the moment of capture

    47:41 Arrival at the POW camp and survival strategies

    57:12 Escape attempts, interrogation, and hard labor sentence

    1:05:38 The end of the war and Tommy's journey back home

    1:11:07 Transition to civilian life and post-war experiences

    1:18:50 Tommy's silence about the war and eventual return to Korea

    1:20:25 Closing remarks and invitation to join the Facebook discussion

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    A journalist in apartheid South Africa (173) Apr 16, 2021

    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.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction of guest John Matisonn

    2:02 Sponsor: Request for listener support and acknowledgments

    2:34 Matisonn's experience as a journalist in Apartheid South Africa

    7:00 Interplay of Cold War dynamics in South Africa

    10:03 Nelson Mandela's relationship with Communism and the Soviet Union

    14:27 ANC leaders' training in Soviet Union and GDR

    21:02 South African collaboration with Western intelligence services

    26:26 The concept of "linkage" in the Cold War and Cuba's involvement

    29:38 South Africa's nuclear program

    35:27 Reagan administration's approach towards South Africa

    42:48 Matisonn's personal interactions with Apartheid era leaders

    46:06 Introduction to John Matisonn's book "God, Spies and Lies"

    48:25 Sponsor: Acknowledging Patrons and Sponsors

    49:11 Invitation to Join Facebook Discussion Group

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    Yuri Gagarin - The first human in space (172) Apr 09, 2021

    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.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction

    4:19 The significance of the first man in space and misconceptions

    10:14 The Soviet Union’s involvement in the space race

    18:37 The KGB's insistence on having a bomb onboard the spacecraft

    27:58 The secrecy of the Soviet space program

    33:44 The Myth of the Lost cosmonauts

    38:22 Gagarin's landing and the unravelling of decades-long lies

    52:20 Gagarin's demeanour during the launch and the aftermath of the landing

    1:02:01 The decision to leapfrog the Soviets in the space race and Gagarin's life post-space mission

    1:10:21 Closing and acknowledgements of patrons

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    Confrontation at the Stößensee (171) Apr 02, 2021

    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.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and crash of Soviet interceptor in British sector of Berlin

    0:49 Interview with historian Bernd von Kostka and discussion on his upcoming book

    2:34 Overview of Cold War Berlin in 1966 and frequent overflights by Soviet aircraft

    7:06 Examination of the Yak 28p crash site and its significance

    14:44 Analysis of the Soviet Union's limited control in West Berlin and the tense standoff at the crash site

    18:06 Debunking of common rumors surrounding the crash and discussion on the aftermath

    20:23 British attempts to extract secrets from the crashed aircraft and discovery of the radar equipment

    23:22 Negotiations and handover of the wreckage to the Soviets

    30:19 Exploring the impact and memory of the incident in Germany and the Soviet Union

    37:20 Posthumous honors for the pilots and introduction to the book "Capital of Spies"

    41:06 Acknowledgement of the patrons and invitation to join the Facebook discussion group

    41:50 Closing remarks

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    A 22 year old Briton working in East Germany (170) Mar 27, 2021

    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/

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    0:00 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 Independent tourism during the Cold War

    26:31 Installing equipment and training locals in East Germany

    38:59 Chris Summers' work experiences in Poland and Russia

    45:57 Experiences in Soviet factories and Georgian culture

    49:09 Unique experiences and restrictions in the Soviet Union

    54:45 Chris Summers' work in Czechoslovakia

    56:33 Tim's wedding and Ancher's arrival in the UK

    59:36 Wrap up and donation information

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    Bonus - Soviet Tours (169) Mar 24, 2021

    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.


    Image by Arsenyi Kotov https://www.instagram.com/northern.friend/


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 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

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    Commanding a Cold War Royal Navy Polaris Nuclear Missile Submarine (168) Mar 20, 2021

    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.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and overview of the episode

    0:59 Rob Forsyth's experiences on HMS Repulse, a Polaris nuclear missile submarine

    5:43 Missile tests and weapons system readiness routine

    11:19 Life on a submarine: staying active, alert, and coping with challenges

    17:06 The psychological aftermath of patrols: crew members' struggles

    23:47 Post-launch plans and moral implications of a nuclear attack

    31:55 Anecdotes and stories from Rob's time with HMS Repulse

    36:04 Rob's transition to a Perisher teacher and his experiences

    49:42 Rob's command of HMS Sector and encounters with Soviet submarines

    1:00:15 The financial and operational cost of Trident, and the UK's nuclear policy

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    Cold War Royal Navy Diesel Submarine officer during the 1960s and 70s (167) Mar 13, 2021

    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.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction

    1:15 Guest Introduction: Rob Forsyth, Royal Navy Veteran

    7:15 Submarine Training and the Cuban Missile Crisis Experience

    16:04 Recollection of Near-Miss Submarine Incidents

    18:10 Deployment to Canada and Leisure Time in Bermuda

    22:17 Lessons from Under Ice Operations and Handling Submarine in Icy Conditions

    28:47 Work on Sound Propagation in Water and Anti-Submarine Training

    33:47 Trimmed Down Submarine and Operation Differences in War and Peace Mode

    37:33 Life in the Far East Fleet and Goodwill Visits

    46:23 Experience of Perisher and the Realities of Submarine Command

    1:00:41 Maintaining Morale and Teamwork During Crisis

    1:05:00 Acknowledgment of the Patrons and Episode Conclusion

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    Jan - Greenham Common Peace Protester (166) Mar 06, 2021

    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.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 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 peace camp

    10:54 Activities, protests, and interactions with soldiers and police at the camp

    15:50 Participation in the 14-mile human chain demonstration and the role of singing in protests

    19:14 Reaction of locals, experiences with arrests, and court experiences

    24:16 Reflections on the achievements of the Peace Movement and its lasting impact

    28:56 Awareness and action on environmental issues and sharing history with younger generations

    32:42 Memorable moments from Greenham and current stance on nuclear weapons

    34:17 Acknowledgement of patrons and supporters

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    The China civil war and the independence of Taiwan (165) Feb 27, 2021

    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


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction

    1:02 Interview with author Graham Hutchings about the Chinese Civil War

    10:32 Analysis of the Nationalist strategy and situation by 1949

    17:58 British authorities' perspective on the civil war in Hong Kong

    23:32 Exploration of the scale of the conflict and its impact on the lives of millions of people

    26:11 Detailed discussion of the HMS Amethyst incident

    30:00 Examination of the fall of the nationalist cause and the fate of the Guangxi leaders

    34:37 Shift in the communist approach post-victory: from rural insurrection to urban administration

    41:10 A look at a striking photograph in Graham Hutchings' book

    44:44 Mao's relationship with the Soviet Union

    49:00 America's effort to thwart Chinese invasion of Taiwan

    52:11 Discussion on current tensions between China and Taiwan

    54:01 Acknowledgement of Patrons and Supporters

    2:03 How to help support the podcast

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    The Happy Traitor - The Life of Soviet Spy George Blake (164) Feb 20, 2021

    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/



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    0:00 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 activities, and impact on Cold War dynamics

    31:33 Discovery of Blake's betrayal and subsequent trial

    40:21 Insights from Blake's speeches to the Stasi and his life in prison

    46:11 Blake's escape and new life in Russia

    54:45 Blake's remorse for his actions and admiration for Britain

    56:30 Simon Cooper's personal connection with Blake

    58:19 Conclusion and promotion of the book "The Happy Traitor: Spies, Lies, and Exile in Russia"

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    From Foe to Friend - the British Army in Cold War Germany (163) Feb 13, 2021

    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.

    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 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 pamphlets

    31:09 Living in the shadow of the Berlin Wall and the British military train

    38:00 The evolution of weaponry and the role of the British Army in Germany

    43:23 The impact of the Cold War on soldier and family life in Germany

    51:25 Changes in Europe: A look at the maps from 1979 and 1991

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    On Her Majesty's Cold War Nuclear Submarine Service (162) Feb 06, 2021

    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 appreciated – goodbye.


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    Advanced English studies in Moscow during the 1970s and 80s (161) Jan 30, 2021

    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.


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    0:00 Introduction and Vadim's education in the Soviet Union

    2:08 Interview with Vadim begins

    7:26 The impact of usage on language proficiency and importance of language education in the Soviet Union

    10:19 Influence and censorship of Western music and pop culture in the Soviet Union

    18:21 Exposure to Western broadcasts: BBC, Radio Free Europe, and Voice of America

    20:48 Access to English language literature in the Soviet Union

    30:10 Censorship and perception of English-language movies

    32:10 Interactions with native English speakers and international visitors at school

    43:15 Communist ideology in Soviet Education

    47:20 Shift in English education after Glasnost and Perestroika

    49:02 Special thanks to Patreons

    49:51 How to support Cold War Conversations podcast

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    US Army Intelligence gathering in the unified Germany (160) Jan 23, 2021

    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 you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


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    0:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode

    1:50 Sponsor: Patreon and How to Support the Podcast

    3:30 Bill's Story of Intelligence Gathering and Shift in Work Post Cold War

    9:00 Fear of Soviet Agents within BND and Discussion on Rosenholz Files

    14:11 CIA and BND's Joint Mission and Tracking Movement of nuclear warheads out of East Germany

    18:52 Cooperation with the CIA, Role of Aldrich Ames, and Friction over Source Management

    24:04 Potential Risks of Espionage and the Downsizing of the Unit

    28:46 Arrest of BND Team Members for Espionage and the Subsequent Trial

    33:38 Bill's Visit to Zossen-Wünsdorf, Former Soviet Forces Headquarters in Germany

    38:33 Bill's Aspiration to Write a Book about CAD B and the Organization Post the Allied Missions

    40:02 Sponsor: Acknowledgment of Sponsors and How to Support the Podcast

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    A freedom fighter in the 1956 Hungarian Revolution (159) Jan 16, 2021

    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.


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    Witness to the Eastern Bloc revolutions of the 1980s with Professor Timothy Garton Ash (158) Jan 09, 2021

    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…


    UK 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 appreciated.


    Episode photo by By Daniel Vegel (www.vegeldaniel.com) - This file has been extracted from file: Timothy-Garton-Ash-Daniel-Vegel-CEU-Lecture-2017.jpg, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=59301308


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    0:00 Introduction and background of Professor Timothy Garton Ash

    2:02 Donations and support options

    3:23 Professor Timothy Garton Ash's experiences and research in East Berlin

    12:37 Discussion on the Stasi file and its contents

    20:05 The eruption of the Solidarity movement in Poland and the strikes in Gdansk

    33:20 Professor Garton Ash's involvement in the Solidarity movement

    39:00 The political climate in Poland during the 1980s and the journey towards freedom

    43:59 Hungary's role in the fall of the Soviet block

    45:30 The Velvet Revolution in Prague and Vaslav Havel's leadership

    54:07 Reflection on pivotal moments of the Cold War era in Eastern Europe

    1:02:00 The regional collaboration of anti-communist groups during the Cold War

    1:09:02 Acknowledgements and closing remarks from Ian Sanders

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    Ian Black - Flying the English Electric Lightning (157) Jan 02, 2021

    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…


    Check 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.


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    0:00 Introduction to guest Ian Black and his flying career

    15:45 The use of IFF identification and challenges during the Cold War

    28:09 RAF's vetting process and the lack of background checks in the 70s and 80s

    33:19 Realistic training methods of the RAF and struggles with pilot training

    41:32 Recommendation of Cold War TV on YouTube

    43:32 Ian Black's experience flying the English Electric Lightning

    55:23 Interception of a Russian bomber: a life-defining moment

    1:00:20 Air refueling: strategy, coordination, and challenges

    1:09:24 The responsibilities and challenges of flying a single-seat Lightning

    1:12:28 Ian Black's photography, Firestreak Books, and future projects

    1:17:44 acknowledgement of financial supporters

    1:18:33 Closing remarks and continuation of the Cold War conversation on Facebook

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    Sovietisation of Estonia (156) Dec 30, 2020

    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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    0:00 Introduction and Michael Zdanowski's family history

    2:41 Interview with Michael Zdanowski about his interest in the Cold War

    10:55 Michael's university studies and encounters with Cold War era tutors

    16:48 Discussion on Soviet migration and cultural imperialism in Estonia

    29:18 Resistance of Estonians against Soviet rule and preservation of culture

    34:56 Independence movements in Soviet Socialist Republics

    39:11 Influence of Western culture in Estonia during the Cold War

    41:42 Enduring impact of the Soviet era on Estonia

    45:27 Rapid fire discussion on Cold War themed books and films

    52:23 Imaginary dinner party with Cold War personalities

    53:51 Additional resources and donations

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    Deputy Head of UK Mission in East Berlin - Part 2 (155) Dec 26, 2020

    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!

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    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://coldwarconversations.com/episode155/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou 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.



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    Deputy Head of UK Mission in East Berlin - Part 1 (154) Dec 19, 2020

    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 link in your podcast app here . https://coldwarconversations.com/episode154/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.


    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Just another day in Vietnam (153) Dec 12, 2020

    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.


    UK 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/

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    0:00 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 comparison with US army

    14:22 Keith's first experience in combat and discussion on PTSD

    20:25 The writing process of Keith's book and the decision to write in third person

    27:20 The B52 strike against the POW camp and the aftermath of the battle

    40:02 Major Hep's leadership and influence on Keith Nightingale

    53:21 Public attitudes towards the Vietnam War and preparing for a second tour

    1:00:34 Reflections on the war, its impact and lessons learned

    1:09:07 Keith's reflections on Vietnam and his book, closing remarks from Ian Sanders

    1:10:04 Acknowledgement of financial supporters and politburo level Patreons: Sam Hardwick, Nicholas Butler, and Jeffrey Jones

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    With Solidarity in Gdansk in 1980 (152) Dec 05, 2020

    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.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Jacqueline Hayden's journey and her first interactions with Poland's dissidents

    2:25 Cold War Channel on YouTube

    11:55 Jacqueline's experiences with the Solidarity movement and Lech Walesa

    19:00 Meeting special figures during the Cold War and the prospects of a free trade union

    30:25 Interpretation of the round table and the collapse of communism

    36:59 Jacqueline's experiences in Poland during the agreement signing and her work with the Irish press

    42:51 Jacqueline's encounters with the Polish secret police and other foreign journalists

    49:02 Discussions on the potential end of the regime and the beginning of opening up in Russia

    55:46 Jacqueline's interviews with General Juruselski and the symbolism of his handshake with Lech Walesa

    1:06:07 Analysis of the 1989 election and the impact of the electoral system

    1:13:36 Discussion on the role of the Catholic Church in the Cold War and the relationship between Cardinal Glemp and General Jaruzelski

    1:22:10 Closing remarks, promotion of Cold War Conversations Coasters, and a call for donations

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    Sue Boyd - Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy in East Berlin (151) Nov 28, 2020

    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.


    Buy 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.



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    0:00 Introduction of Sue Boyd and her diplomatic career

    1:17 Sue Boyd's postings at the United Nations and East Germany

    3:19 Sue Boyd's early career in the Australian foreign service

    6:01 Sue Boyd's unexpected posting to East Germany and role as 1st secretary

    9:07 Sue Boyd's travel experiences and surveillance by Stasi

    15:13 Sue Boyd's observations on East Bloc countries' relationships with the Soviet Union

    22:31 Building relationships and friendships in the GDR

    34:49 Comments on Sue Boyd's journalist contacts in East Germany

    47:12 Sue Boyd's surveillance stories and the impact of Stasi

    1:00:02 Gough Whitlam's visit to the GDR in 1976 and Sue Boyd's role

    1:03:32 Sue Boyd's book about her life as a diplomat

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    Cold War Royal Navy submarine missions (150) Nov 21, 2020

    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.


    Buy 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 appreciated


    Photo: FOSNI PHOTS/MOD


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    0:00 Introduction

    0:43 Interview with Ian Ballantine, author of 'Hunter Killers'

    1:18 Role of Royal Navy submarines in the Cuban missile crisis

    3:02 Post-war use of WWII submarines and sharing of captured submarine technology

    9:58 Intelligence gathering missions in the Barents Sea

    14:49 Royal Navy's participation in the Cuba quarantine

    19:29 Under-ice missions and the Royal Navy going nuclear

    30:10 Introduction of nuclear-powered submarines in the Royal Navy

    41:00 Identification of NATO submarines by the Soviet Union

    52:08 Authentication and launch process of missiles

    1:02:05 Collision incident between HMS Splendid and a Typhoon

    1:09:37 The burial at sea prank on the Russians by HMS London

    1:14:30 The uncertainty during the hardliner's coup in Moscow

    1:19:10 The most dangerous area of confrontation: Under the Sea

    1:21:00 Proposal for a submariners' memorial

    1:23:52 Acknowledging the contributions of patrons and sponsors

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    Détente – the chance to end the Cold War (149) Nov 14, 2020

    Today we speak with Richard Crowder, the author of “Détente – the chance to end the Cold War”.

    Help support the podcast buy 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 Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.

    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and Patreon appeal by Ian Sanders

    1:06 Introduction to Richard Crowder and his book "Detente"

    5:07 Overview of global social and economic changes and politics in the late 1960s

    10:11 Richard Crowder discusses the flow of events from 1968 to 1975

    14:05 Breakthrough with China and its impact on the Cold War

    20:14 The need for the Berlin 4 power agreement

    32:25 Discussion on the Paris Peace Accords and the end of US involvement in Vietnam

    40:20 The Yom Kippur War and the risk of a superpower confrontation

    44:52 Nixon's resignation and the Watergate scandal

    49:34 Ford and Brezhnev's meeting in Vladivostok and the final summit of the détente period

    57:42 Closing remarks and patron acknowledgements

    58:25 How to support the podcast

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    Guy Burgess and the Cambridge Spy Ring (148) Nov 07, 2020

    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.


    UK 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 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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    A Childhood under the eye of the Secret Police (147) Oct 31, 2020

    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...


    Buy 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

    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

    0:00 Introduction to the episode by Ian Sanders

    4:31 Carmen Bugan's family background and school life in Romania

    15:18 Life during the food shortages in Romania and Carmen's father's decision to protest

    26:02 Maintaining a double life under an oppressive regime

    34:50 The aftermath of Carmen's father protest and the family's ordeal

    49:53 First visit to imprisoned father and the emotional encounter

    1:03:35 The family's reunion with their father and living under house arrest

    1:11:49 Discovery of secret police files and finding love amidst the chaos

    1:19:53 Struggle after obtaining visas, saying goodbye to Romania and moving to America

    1:27:41 Ian Sanders concludes the episode and thanks the financial supporters

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    Don - Cold War 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment at Fulda (146) Oct 23, 2020

    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.


    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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    0:00 Introduction

    4:26 Explanation of the Fulda Gap and its strategic importance

    11:28 Comparison of missions in Vietnam and Germany

    15:53 Discussion of the social life and community in Germany

    20:41 Don Snedeker's career after Fulda and his work at Fort Monroe, Virginia

    24:31 Don Snedeker's role transition post fall of the Berlin Wall

    28:38 Don Snedeker's conversation with an East German Air Defense Colonel

    35:55 Don Snedeker's interactions with Soviet officers

    44:27 Don Snedeker's experience during German unification

    47:47 Ian Sanders wraps up the episode and directs listeners to additional resources

    48:50 Special thanks to patrons

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    Navigator aboard the Cold War Vulcan nuclear bomber (145) Oct 16, 2020

    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.

    Thank you very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and Barry's initial experiences with target study

    1:14 Barry Mullen's journey to becoming a navigator and his training experiences

    7:55 Difficulties encountered during training and training for high level and low level attacks

    11:25 Barry's posting in Akrotiri, Cyprus and Cold War missions in Cento

    15:17 The Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 and Barry's experience during the invasion

    20:25 Squadron's role post-invasion and Barry's return to England

    22:43 Barry's training and experiences in Canada and the United States

    29:49 Barry's posting as an instructor at Scampton and selection for the Vulcan display crew

    34:19 Nuclear weapon simulator checks and discussions on nuclear deterrence

    47:00 Flying other aircraft besides the Vulcan and the most dangerous situation during service

    50:06 Closing remarks and promotions

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    1962 Berlin fiction - author interview (144) Oct 13, 2020

    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.

    https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/bestsellers/books/12447630031/ref=pd_zg_hrsr_books&tag=cwcp-21

    Help support the podcast with a CWC mug or maybe a t-shirt?

    https://www.redbubble.com/people/Coldwarpod/shop?asc=u

    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/

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    0:00 Introduction of guest, Paul Grant, and his book "Coercion"

    2:06 Sponsor: Call for financial support and podcast merchandise promotion

    6:44 The state of Berlin in 1962 as a book setting and the Berlin Wall

    15:02 The role of West Berlin Police and the American Allies

    18:50 Real-life stories from the Cold War period

    21:23 Introduction to the characters and plot of "Coercion"

    28:12 Research methods and the importance of historical accuracy in historical fiction

    34:54 Exploration of the legitimacy of the DDR in the early 1960s

    40:16 Germany's approach to dealing with its Cold War past

    48:22 Upcoming projects from Paul Grant

    52:28 Acknowledgement of the podcast's financial supporters

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    Don - Vietnam war Armoured Cavalry Platoon Leader (143) Oct 09, 2020

    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.


    Buy 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/

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    0:00 Introduction and historical context

    1:29 Don Snedeker's early life, military career, and family history

    7:35 Reflection on preparedness for war and the role of armored cavalry in Vietnam

    15:48 Long range reconnaissance missions and jungle warfare

    25:20 Tactics used in combat and earning military honors

    27:19 Writing the book "The Black Horse in Vietnam" and its impact

    35:06 Experience returning home from Vietnam and personal memories

    39:38 Visiting Vietnam post-war and personal reflections

    43:57 Unique characteristics and advantages of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in Vietnam

    55:17 End of interview and closing remarks by Ian Sanders

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    In Cold War Skies – NATO and Soviet airpower 1949-89 (142) Oct 02, 2020

    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.


    You 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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    0:00 Introduction and guest Michael Napier's personal experiences during the Cold War

    3:12 Discussion about Michael Napier's RAF career and counter air plans

    6:07 Insight into the training and exercises during the Cold War

    13:08 Reflection on the end of the Cold War and fraternizing with former enemies

    16:22 The genesis and structure of Michael Napier's book on the Cold War

    21:44 The advancement of aircraft technology and intelligence gathering during the Cold War

    27:34 The cyclic nature of history, military organization, and the comparison of aircraft

    32:22 The Arab Israeli war's impact on warfare tactics and the evolution of different aircraft

    40:06 Researching for the book and neutrality of nations during the Cold War

    47:30 The human cost of the Cold War and preserving the stories of the era

    53:13 Review of "In Cold War Skies: NATO and Soviet AirPower, 1949" and book giveaway

    54:42 Closing remarks and appreciation to listeners and financial supporters

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    I was a deep cover KGB spy Part 2 (141) Sep 25, 2020

    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


    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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    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

    40:20 Revealing his past to his family

    44:51 Reunion with his abandoned son and friendship with FBI agent

    49:22 Reflections on his decisions and the impact of his past

    51:15 Closing remarks and acknowledgements to patrons

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    I was a deep cover KGB spy Part 1 (140) Sep 18, 2020

    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…


    UK 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

    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    0:00 Introduction of Jack Barsky and his relationship with the KGB

    1:25 Jack Barsky's recruitment and training by the KGB

    2:06 Fundraising request for the podcast

    2:36 Jack Barsky's early life and education in East Germany

    11:41 Barsky's journey to becoming a KGB agent

    36:15 The romanticization of spies and the reality of spy life in East Germany

    51:00 The dangers, risks, and impacts of being a spy

    37:05 Jack Barsky's belief in the socialist ideal and the tenets of Marxism

    40:02 Jack Barsky's training mission to West Berlin and intensive training in Moscow

    59:48 Jack Barsky's transition to a new identity in the US

    1:00:38 Closing remarks by Ian Sanders and additional content information.

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    Portland Spy Ring Part 2 (139) Sep 11, 2020

    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.


    UK 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 appreciated


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations


    0:00 Introduction and arrest of Gordon Lonsdale

    2:26 Interview begins with Trevor Barnes: Background on the arrest of Lonsdale, Houghton, and Gee

    15:13 The arrest of Gordon Lonsdale, Houghton, and Gee: Discussion on the Krogers' arrest and espionage equipment

    33:29 Discovery of further espionage equipment: The Krogers' false identities and their histories as spies

    38:02 Court case: Attempts to turn Lonsdale and identifying his real name

    46:43 Negotiations with Lonsdale and the Krogers: The deal offered to Lonsdale

    54:50 Establishing Lonsdale's real identity: Unveiling the true identity of Konon Molody

    1:02:27 Discussions on Molody becoming a double agent for the British: The futile negotiations with Molody

    1:04:31 Spy swap: Molody's journey to freedom and the spy exchange at the Glienicke Bridge

    1:12:22 Details on the wider ring of spies controlled by Lonsdale: Successful penetration of the Porton Down research centre

    1:23:03 Acknowledgement of financial supporters

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    Portland Spy Ring Part 1 (138) Sep 04, 2020

    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…


    UK 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/

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations


    0:00 Introduction and Background of Trevor Barnes

    1:03 Overview of the Portland Spy Ring and Trevor Barnes' book "Dead Doubles"

    9:14 Investigation and Surveillance of the Krogers and Portland Spy Ring

    13:32 Missed Opportunities and Gender Bias in the 1950s

    25:24 Introduction to Rafter Technology Used for Surveillance

    32:54 MI5's Surveillance Strategy and Role of Women

    35:30 Moral Dilemmas Faced by MI5 During the Investigation

    37:22 Investigation into the Search Family

    43:04 Trevor Barnes' Approach to Historical Accuracy in His Book

    46:44 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments

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    The Last British Commandant in Cold War West Berlin Part 2 (137) Aug 28, 2020

    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


    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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    0:00 Introduction and Major General Sir Robert Corbett's experience in West Berlin

    7:17 British army's plans and readiness for a potential Warsaw packed invasion

    13:15 Major General Sir Robert Corbett's visits and experiences in East Germany

    23:01 Recollection of the moment the Berlin Wall opened and the ensuing chaos

    28:34 Interactions with Soviet soldiers and the changing relationship with East German border guards

    36:37 Soviet reaction to the unfolding events and the bond between enemy soldiers

    41:18 Major General Sir Robert Corbett's ongoing connection with Russia and Berlin

    44:03 The departure of British troops from Berlin and the change in their status

    47:05 The close-call confrontation at Checkpoint Charlie in 1961 and stories about German reunification

    51:36 Reflections on the peaceful resolution of the Cold War and the importance of recording Cold War history

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    The Last British Commandant in Cold War West Berlin Part 1 (136) Aug 21, 2020

    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.


    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.com/@ColdWarConversations


    0:00 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 early experiences in Berlin

    9:56 Confrontation with East German railway police and Ian Sanders' reflections

    16:38 Observations on West Berlin's atmosphere, reconstruction, and damage from World War 2

    22:03 Corbett's decision to join the army, career progression, and appointment in Berlin

    30:24 Trust and collaboration among commanders during the Cold War and interview with British Foreign Minister Jeffrey Howe

    33:43 Interaction with local government and freedom to change things under occupation in West Berlin

    39:43 Purpose and importance of the Cold War Conversations podcast

    42:06 Demolition of Spandau Prison and construction of British forces supermarket

    44:03 Closing remarks and acknowledgments

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    Eva - A Cold War Czechoslovak Childhood (135) Aug 14, 2020

    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.


    If 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.



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/

    Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations



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    My father was Cold War Stasi spy Werner Stiller (134) Aug 07, 2020

    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…

    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/

    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.



    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and backstory of Scott and Andy

    0:54 The story of Werner Stiller, Andy's father, and his defection

    2:24 Request for listener donations

    4:41 Werner's role in East German intelligence services and his motivations

    10:35 Examination of Werner's personal life and its impact on his career

    14:28 Werner's contact with the BND and his attempts to escape

    30:10 Werner's final escape to West Berlin and its aftermath

    34:11 Revealing of Marcus Wolf's identity and the aftermath of Werner's defection

    41:13 Andy's discovery of his father's past and their relationship post-defection

    54:57 Discoveries from the Stasi archives and plans for Scott's documentary

    1:00:16 Closing remarks and promotion of Cold War conversations on Facebook

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    Retracing the Iron Curtain: A 3,000-Mile Journey Through the End and Afterlife of the Cold War (133) Jul 31, 2020

    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.


    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://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    0:00 Introduction and anecdotes from Tim Phillips

    2:06 Call for listener support and introduction to Tim Phillips' story

    4:45 Discussion on NATO countries bordering the Soviet Union

    17:24 The concept of Finlandisation and Finnish neutrality during the Cold War

    27:10 Soviet occupation of Bornholm

    34:51 Journey from the Baltic to Marienborn

    38:47 The transformation of the border area into a nature reserve post-Cold War

    44:55 The role of the church in the East German dissident movement

    51:15 Exploring the border in the Czech Republic and Slovakia

    1:00:31 The British naval incident near the island of Corfu

    1:05:53 Turning the trip into a book

    1:08:10 Cold War Conversations Coasters and donations

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    Cold War Czechoslovak hockey star defects to Canada (132) Jul 24, 2020

    Vashi Nedomanský is the son of Czechoslovak former legendary ice hockey forward Václav Nedomanský aka “Big Ned” who is best known as the first ice hockey player to defect to North America to play.

    We hear a dramatic true story that combines sports, politics, espionage, corruption, and life-changing events that played out on a global stage.


    Among the stories we hear are the vivid descriptions of the 1969 Ice Hockey World Championships where the Czechoslovak National Team faced the Soviet national team for the first time since the 1968 Soviet Invasion of Czechoslovakia.

    Vashi is currently finishing a film that will reveal his father’s incredible story for the first time in his own words. Visit the show notes here to see the trailer and the 1969 Ice Hockey World Championships. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode132/

    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 get new guests.

    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 Vashi 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/episode132/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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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    0:00 Introduction and Vashi Nedomanski's father's defection story

    12:02 Vashi's father's professional ice hockey career and political climate in Czechoslovakia

    16:44 Prague Spring and the Soviet invasion

    19:00 The 1969 World Championships and its political implications

    27:06 Vashi's birth, early life, and family's decision to defect

    38:16 The methodology and journey of the Nedomanski family's defection

    44:25 Arrival in Canada and challenges faced by the Nedomanski family

    49:14 Erasure of Vashi's father from Czechoslovak ice hockey history and consequences faced by family

    56:02 Vashi's own professional hockey career and experience of discrimination

    58:04 Vashi's return to Czechoslovakia and his father's popularity

    1:00:52 The making of Vashi's documentary about his father's life and journey

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    Robert - The anti Cold War activist (131) Jul 17, 2020

    Robert Perschmann describes himself as an anti-Cold War activist.

    His political views started to form while serving in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War period where he saw first hand the toll on the US military and the racism prevalent in the American South.

    An interview with a Soviet journalist which was broadcast on PBS radio (the US equivalent of the BBC) was the catalyst for an almost one-man campaign to reduce tensions between the two superpowers.

    At this point, Robert was working as a US Mailman where he financed numerous visits to the Soviet Union to foster a better understanding between the two systems and became friends with many Soviet personalities including Dean Reed and legendary Soviet journalist Vladimir Posner.

    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/

    Thanks to our latest supporters including Greg Collins, Derek Worthington, Craig Donald, Janet Kelley, David O’Leary, STepwolf, Paul Hatzer, Chris Cock, Jon Forsyth, & James Roberts

    Back to today's episode, we welcome Robert Perschmann 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/episode131/

    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.


    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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    0:00 Introduction and Robert Pershman's unexpected call from FBI

    2:26 Sponsor: Fundraising plea for the podcast

    3:16 Robert's experience in the US Air Force and his exposure to racism

    8:42 Experiences of racism in the American South and impact of Martin Luther King on Robert's life

    15:35 Robert's transition from military to civilian life and anti-cold war activism

    20:07 First impressions of Aeroflot and the Soviet Union, meeting and connecting with Vitali Chirkin

    28:40 Robert's perspective on living conditions and work in the Soviet Union

    35:36 Dealing with the FBI due to Soviet connections, encounters with the KGB

    43:56 Activism efforts during the Cold War, meeting Dean Reed

    51:55 Changing family dynamics due to Soviet connections, meeting Svetlana Starodubtseva

    1:00:57 Discussion about the Soviet Union's role in World War II, Robert's views on the Soviet Union's post-war actions

    1:06:31 Closing remarks and acknowledgements

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    Susan - An American teaching English in East Germany (130) Jul 11, 2020

    Susan Morrison is Professor of English at Texas State University. In the late 1980’s she taught in Rostock in the former GDR and then lived in West Berlin but frequently crossed back into the East to teach and meet friends. In this episode we talk to her about her experiences and her impression of the two Germanys in 1989.

    During her time in Rostock, Susan got in trouble with the authorities over bulletin board known as ‘The Wall’; the way she was censured by senior academics in the GDR sheds a valuable light on how people lived within the strict system of control by using humour and compromise.

    Susan talks about finding the humanity in the GDR and how, as she watched the wall fall in 1989, that she wondered if unification would truly benefit all Germans.

    Susan also retrieved her personal Stasi File and talks about how they tracked and monitored her during her time in the GDR and the assumptions that they made (not always successfully!).

    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/

    James our co-host is the interviewer as we welcome Susan 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/episode130/

    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/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and Susan Morrison's first encounter with the East German

    2:43 Susan's journey as a graduate student in East Germany

    6:49 Susan's role as the editor of the wall newspaper and potential conflict with GDR authorities

    11:09 The repercussions of posting a controversial article and the aftermath

    14:31 Susan's complex feelings about her time in East Germany

    18:08 Susan's discovery of her Stasi file and its references to the controversy

    26:01 Susan's extended stay in Berlin and her travels to East Germany

    34:35 Susan's experience living in West Berlin during the fall of the wall

    46:21 Being detained at the border and misinterpretations by the East German government

    56:53 The night the Berlin Wall came down and meeting with Angela after the fall

    1:09:31 Feminist scholars' perspective on the change and the story of the Stasi car

    1:20:05 Closing conversation with Susan Morrison and Ian Sanders wraps up the episode.

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    The KGB tried to recruit me (129) Jul 03, 2020

    Hans de Vreij is a Dutch journalist who has worked in Berlin , Brussels, Geneva and Prague.

    Whilst working at the United Nations in Geneva Hans was the subject of attempted recruitment by the KGB to develop an ‘agent of influence’ to disseminate Soviet points of view.

    In addition, they analysed the ‘targeted journalist’ in terms of possible blackmail: ‘kompromat‘ (compromising material). This especially held true for journalists who later might find themselves in an important position, such as press spokesman at a ministry.

    We later talk about Hans’ visit to a Soviet chemical weapons facility and testing ground on the Volga, some 750 kms southeast of Moscow as well as his service in the Dutch Army.

    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 Hans 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/episode129/

    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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    0:00 Introduction and meeting with Soviet diplomat Mikhail Petrukhov

    1:51 Sponsor message and request for donations

    3:57 Hans de Vreij's career journey and focus on human rights and arms control

    10:49 The envelope incident and potential for blackmail

    16:33 Conclusion and reflections on the old-fashioned tactics of Soviet intelligence

    20:14 An unusual request from a KGB agent

    29:15 Understanding KGB tradecraft

    35:01 Invitation to see a chemical weapons facility in the Soviet Union

    53:01 Hans de Vreij's time in the Dutch Army

    55:38 Closing remarks and call to action: Show notes, donations, and the Facebook discussion group

    56:16 Podcast sign off by Ian Sanders

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    Experiencing the Cold War via virtual reality (128) Jun 26, 2020

    How can we go beyond the films, books, and photos to learn more about the Cold War? Films are certainly evocative and certainly inform but how can we go beyond that and immerse ourselves to see what it felt like to be there. The two technologies of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality may allow us to do this.

    Robin Hardenberg is a Berlin-based filmmaker who has developed ’The Berlin Wall App’ which uses Augmented Reality to bring the drama of the division of Berlin to those who are able to walk around the City.

    Patrick Furlong is Head of Factual at Remarkable TV and has produced VR content for YouTube’s Virtually History series about the Berlin Wall. These programs allow you to immerse yourself in key episodes in Berlin’s Cold War history from your own home.

    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 James, Robin & Patrick to our Cold War conversation…

    There’s VR videos and further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app.https://coldwarconversations.com/episode128/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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 for 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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    0:00 Introduction and meeting with Soviet diplomat Mikhail Petrukhov

    1:51 Sponsor message and request for donations

    3:57 Hans de Vreij's career journey and focus on human rights and arms control

    10:49 The envelope incident and potential for blackmail

    16:33 Conclusion and reflections on the old-fashioned tactics of Soviet intelligence

    20:14 An unusual request from a KGB agent

    29:15 Understanding KGB tradecraft

    35:01 Invitation to see a chemical weapons facility in the Soviet Union

    53:01 Hans de Vreij's time in the Dutch Army

    55:38 Closing remarks and call to action: Show notes, donations, and the Facebook discussion group

    56:16 Podcast sign off by Ian Sanders

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    Cold War US Army Intelligence Analyst (127) Jun 19, 2020

    Bill was a US Army Intelligence Analyst. In 1986 he was assigned to Order of Battle Branch, Soviet Section where for three years he studied the Warsaw Pact armies working closely with the US Military Liaison Mission (USMLM) in Berlin which led to a transfer there in November 1989

    Stationed in Potsdam he became an Order of Battle Analyst and participated in a handful of collection tours with the USMLM as the “back seater”.

    He tells of the little know history of USMLM during this period and the continued monitoring of Soviet Forces in Germany post the opening of the Berlin Wall and even post reunification to the Soviet’s eventual withdrawal in 1994.

    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 the podcast grow.

    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 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. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode127/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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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    0:00 Introduction and guest background

    0:50 Bill's role as a US Army intelligence analyst

    2:27 Importance of financial support for the podcast

    6:24 Tracking Soviet units and military liaison missions

    16:04 The fall of the Berlin Wall and its impact on intelligence operations

    22:13 Observing a Soviet installation firsthand and interacting with East German civilians

    31:01 The end of three-power control of Berlin and the deactivation of USMLM

    35:24 German intelligence services, BND, and their collaboration with USMLM

    38:25 Formation of the Combined Analysis Detachment Berlin (CAD B) and surveillance operations

    56:36 Handling of Russian nuclear weapons storage facilities and shift to human intelligence

    1:06:30 Episode closing remarks

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    Reporting the 1989 Romanian Revolution (126) Jun 12, 2020

    We talk again to Mark Brayne who worked as a Reuters & BBC journalist during the Cold War. This time we are in Romania in December 1989 where riots, street violence and murder in several cities over the course of roughly a week led the Romanian leader Nicolae Ceaușescu to flee the capital city on 22 December with his wife.

    We hear the challenges of being a journalist in what was effectively a war zone without the risk assessments and protective gear of the present day.

    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 the podcast grow.

    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $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/

    Thanks to latest Patreons

    Back to today’s episode, part 3 of three episodes with Mark and it’s been an honour for Mark to share his stories with us in such an honest and revealing fashion…

    We welcome Mark Brayne back 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/episode126

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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/

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    0:00 Introduction and welcome

    0:16 Interview with Mark Brayne: Recollections of Romania in 1989

    2:15 Sponsor: Call for listener support and donations

    9:24 First-hand reporting from Bucharest during the Romanian revolution

    14:44 Mark Brayne's diagnosis of Asperger's and fearlessness during the Cold War

    19:14 Witnessing the aftermath of protests in Bucharest

    23:50 Mark Brayne's personal life post-Cold War and transition into psychotherapy

    27:08 Off-the-record conversation with Vasil Biliak about his early years in communism

    34:32 Anecdotes from the 4+2 negotiations

    39:06 Producing a documentary on the psychology of the Cold War

    41:49 Ian Sanders: Wrapping up the episode and promoting content on Cold War Conversations website

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    A British Journalist under Stasi Surveillance (125) Jun 05, 2020

    We talk to Mark Brayne again in a wide ranging chat about his career as a Reuters & BBC journalist including details of his Stasi file, his time in the Soviet Union, Hungary & Poland as well as the perils of editing analogue tape in a non-digital age.

    Among his interviewees we talk about the Dalai Lama, Lech Walesa as well the ordinary people of the Warsaw Pact countries.

    If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.

    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $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/

    Thanks to latest Patreons

    Back to today’s episode, part 2 of three episodes with Mark and as you will hear we have a lot of fun recording this...

    We welcome Mark Brayne 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/episode125/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and overview of Mark Brayne's career

    2:30 Discussion on Mark Brayne's Stasi files and experiences in East Berlin

    10:18 Examination of Mark's Stasi files, including photos and recorded details

    20:21 Mark Brayne shares his experiences with Russian dissident Andrei Sakharov and reflections on his time in Russia

    27:30 Conversation about Mark Brayne's time in Romania and his role as BBC Central European correspondent

    31:38 Mark Brayne's time in China and interview with the Dalai Lama

    43:22 Mark Brayne's ban from Romania and transition to China

    51:42 Mark Brayne on covering the Gorbachev visit and the Tiananmen Square incident

    53:05 Teaser for Mark Brayne's story about Romania in 1989

    53:28 Closing remarks by Ian Sanders and information about the podcast's Facebook discussion group

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    Cold War Britain & The Bomb (124) May 29, 2020

    In Britain and the Bomb Bill Nuttall considers Britain's national journey from Empire to Europe and the transition of British nuclear weapons from the Royal Air Force to the Royal Navy.

    If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.

    It costs money and time to produce this podcast so I’m asking listeners to contribute $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/

    Thanks to latest Patreons including Chris Pearson, Dave Parry, John Rafferty, This is Rammy, John Helsinki Scott G, Graham Horlock and Mister Giles.

    Back to today’s episode, the story pivots around a single day in April 1965. The recently-established Labour government very publicly cancelled the much-vaunted TSR2 nuclear strike bomber, causing dismay among aviation enthusiasts. The passing decades have done little to diminish the controversy and a pervasive sense of nostalgic melancholy about a lost Britain.

    We welcome Bill Nuttall 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/episode124/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

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    0:00 Introduction and overview of the episode

    0:37 Bill Nuttall's role in the German Democratic Republic and discussion on "Britain and the Bomb"

    2:04 Sponsor: Request for listener support and acknowledgment of patrons

    2:31 The cancellation of TSR2 nuclear strike bomber: Insights and Context

    7:01 Deep dive into the advanced features and significance of the TSR2 aircraft

    12:23 Impact of Duncan Sandy's white paper on the Air Force and industrial policy

    15:48 Consequences of Gary Powers incident and the development of standoff missiles

    21:28 The Cold War as a technological chess game: Strategic decisions and technological advancements

    26:17 Change in UK government and its impact on nuclear decision making

    31:53 Understanding nuclear deterrence, Britain's debate, and defense of Moscow

    35:17 The impact of technology cancellations on Britain's national image and identity

    39:06 Closing remarks and podcast outro

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    A UK Journalist in the Soviet Union & GDR (123) May 22, 2020

    Mark Brayne studied in Moscow 71-72, travelling the country with fellow UK students and spending silly amounts of time in the bathhouses with salted fish and very poor quality beer. He returned in 1974-75 as Reuters trainee journalist where he became very close to Andrei Sakharov, the father of the Soviet hydrogen bomb and Soviet-era dissident.

    East Berlin was his first solo posting for Reuters, where he and his wife Jutta both sang in the East Berlin Cathedral choir for four years, including two as BBC Berlin, with the honorary status of Lieut Col.

    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 the podcast grow.

    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $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/

    Many thanks to our latest Patreons!

    Back to today’s episode, part 1 of three episodes with Mark and I’m sure you will find his story as equally interesting as I did...

    We welcome Mark 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/episode123/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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/

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    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

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    0:00 Introduction and guest Mark Brayne's relationship with Andre Sakharov

    8:18 Discussion on Mark Brayne's first visit to East Berlin and rowing with the Karl Marx University rowing club

    14:33 Mark Brayne's experiences singing in the East Berlin Cathedral choir

    22:14 Mark Brayne's sources of information in East Germany and interactions with other expatriates

    28:10 Mark Brayne's scoop about East Germany purchasing VW Golfs from West Germany

    31:04 Mark Brayne's memorable interview in East Germany and an incident in 1977

    33:56 Transition from East Berlin to West Berlin and reflection on radio reporting

    40:37 Mark Brayne's honorary status in the British military government in West Berlin

    44:57 Mark Brayne's experiences with Western secret services and favourite Cold War story

    51:00 Discussion on border dynamics and Mark Brayne's admiration for Germany's post-Cold War recovery

    57:08 The lasting psychological impact of East Germany's Cold War experience

    59:22 Episode wrap-up and thanks to listeners

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    A 23 year old Cold War nuclear missile commander (122) May 15, 2020

    Scott was a Pershing 2 nuclear missile Fire Control Officer which meant he was responsible for the launch of the missile. Aged 23 he was made platoon commander and responsible for 3 of these deadly weapons.

    The Pershing II was a mobile, intermediate-range ballistic missile deployed by the U.S. Army at American bases in West Germany beginning in 1983. It was aimed at targets in the western Soviet Union. Each Pershing II carried a single, variable-yield thermonuclear warhead with an explosive force equivalent to 5-50 kilotons of TNT. Under the terms of the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty between the United States and the Soviet Union, all Pershing IIs and their support equipment were removed from the inventory and rendered inoperable

    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 the podcast grow.

    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $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, guest host Peter Ryan chatted with Scott and you will remember from Peter episode 101 where he interviewed me about the podcast.

    We welcome Scott & Peter 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/episode122/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening.


    Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod

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    0:00 Introduction and Background of Scott, a Pershing 2 nuclear missile fire control officer

    1:52 Call for listener support and donations

    2:38 Scott's journey in the US Military and his role as a Pershing 2 nuclear missile fire control officer

    7:15 Briefings on the East Bloc, precautions and surveillance by East Bloc agents

    10:57 Scott's experiences near the GDR border and overview of the Pershing 2 missile

    13:23 Scott's promotion and the significance of the missile system in ending the Cold War

    16:08 Comparisons of real-life launch procedures with popular culture and communication in the field

    20:37 Maintenance procedures and orders after launching missiles

    26:42 Off-duty activities and relaxation in Germany, travel opportunities

    30:45 Quick-fire portion: Scott's favourite Cold War memories and memorabilia

    44:34 Wrapping up the conversation with Scott and closing remarks by Ian Sanders

    45:33 End of the episode

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    The Last Days of Cold War East Germany (121) May 08, 2020

    Michael Paterson first visited East Germany just after the fall of the Berlin Wall and provides a vivid account of its subsequent decline and fall during the move to reunification with West Germany. Michael is a military historian, author, researcher and illustrator. He began his career with the military magazine 'Battlefields Review' as a writer and illustrator, before working in the printed books department at the Imperial War Museum, London. Michael has lectured frequently on military history and related subjects.

    Now if you are enjoying the podcast I’m asking for a few quid or dollars a month to help keep us on the air. It’s not much, perhaps a coffee or two a month, plus you become the envy of your friends with that sought after CWC coaster too.


    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/


    If you can’t donate financially then you can also help us by leaving a written review on Apple podcasts or wherever you listen to this podcast.


    Fancy a Cold War Conversations mug? Check out our merchandise store, just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/



    Don’t miss those in the show notes which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode121/


    We welcome Michael Paterson to our Cold War conversation…

    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/

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    Special Forces Berlin - Clandestine Cold War Operations of the US Army's Elite, 1956-1990 (120) May 01, 2020

    James Stejskal served for 23 years with US Special Forces, including two tours in Berlin. Special Forces Berlin was a small detachment of 100 highly trained soldiers who, should hostilities break out, were to wreak havoc behind Warsaw Pact lines.


    The US government only acknowledged its existence in 2014 and John has written an incredible story of how these unsung heroes would have fought and died on what was effectively a one way mission.


    If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.


    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $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/



    Thanks to latest Patreons Ian Crangle, Steve Minegar, Ryan King, Claudia Morgenstern, Mike Cser, Graham Randall, Iain Mckay Dall, Mike Chapman, Michael ODonnell, Robert Krom, & Jeffrey Jones.


    Don’t forget we have a book giveaway of Special Forces Berlin, so make sure you listen through to the end for details of how to enter.


    Back to today’s episode, the story starts with James’ initial recruitment into the US Army.

    We welcome James 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/episode120/


    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.


    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.


    Thankyou very much for listening. It is really appreciated.



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    Alan - Working in the GDR and the Soviet Union (119) Apr 24, 2020

    Alan Baker worked and studied in the GDR and the USSR from the 1970s through to the end of the Soviet Union and the emergence of the Russian Federation as we know it today.

    In Moscow, Alan had the opportunity to live and study in the well-known Moscow State University as well as the opportunity to attend the 54th anniversary of the Russian Revolution Parade in 1971 in Moscow.

    In addition, Alan was awarded a Peace Scholarship to study in Leipzig at the Karl-Marx-Universität and worked for the Novosti News Agency in London which meant travelling extensively in the USSR visiting Star City and the construction of Trans-Siberian pipeline

    Our reviews help the podcast grow, so if you are enjoying our content please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media.

    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after Cold War Conversations 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/

    Thanks to latest Patreons

    Back to today’s episode, our co-host James interviews Alan as he talks of his experiences in the USSR and the GDR as well as his efforts to promote trade between the UK and the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation.

    We welcome Alan 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/episode119/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Cold War Warsaw Bureau Chief for Time Magazine 1981-83 (118) Apr 17, 2020

    Richard Hornik was the Warsaw Bureau Chief for Time Magazine from 1981-1983. He carried out numerous interviews with Solidarity Free Trade Union leader Lech Wałęsa including his last interview before martial law was declared in December 1981.

    He shares the stories of 1980s Poland as well as the interviews he carried out with the Solidarity leadership and the leaders of Communist Poland.

    If you are enjoying the show please leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.

    Now for $3 USD per month (larger amounts are welcome too) you can get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Thank you so much to our 89 generous supporters who help keep the podcast available for you all to listen to.

    In today’s episode, Richard and I talk about his interview with General Jaruselski and his meeting with Father Jerzy Popieluszko as well as his challenges with the SB Polish Security Service.

    We welcome Richard 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.

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


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    The Human Factor: Gorbachev, Reagan, and Thatcher, and the End of the Cold War (117) Apr 10, 2020

    The Cold War got colder in the early 1980s and the relationship between the two military superpowers, the USA and the Soviet Union, each of whom had the capacity to annihilate the other, was tense. By the end of the decade, East-West relations had been utterly transformed, with most of the dividing lines -including the division of Europe- removed.

    We are here with Archie Brown, Emeritus Professor of Politics at the University of Oxford, a Fellow of the British Academy, and an International Honorary Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

    He is the author of numerous books including his latest work , The Human Factor, Gorbachev, Reagan, and Thatcher, and the End of the Cold War arguing the engagement between Gorbachev and Reagan was a crucial part of that process of change. More surprising was Margaret Thatcher's role.

    Our reviews help the podcast grow, so if you are enjoying our content please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media.

    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after Cold War Conversations 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/

    Back to today’s episode, we start by talking about Archie’s’ time as a British Council exchange scholar at Moscow State University for a year between 1967 and 1968. We welcome Archie Brown 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/episode117/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening. It is really appreciated


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    Boarding Soviet Ships with the Cold War Danish Navy (116) Apr 03, 2020

    Lieutenant Commander Jørgen Brandsborg joined the Danish Navy in the 1980s. He met the Soviets up close and personal while serving in the North Atlantic where the Danish Navy acted as a coast guard when on patrol around the Faroe Islands, which meant boarding Soviet vessels for inspection.

    He also tells of Danish Navy training, Denmark’s position within NATO, as well as their defence plans, should the Cold War have turned hot.

    If you’re new here, you’ve come the right place to listen to first hand Cold War history accounts. Do make you subscribe in your podcast app so you don’t miss out on future episodes.

    Our reviews help the podcast grow, so if you are enjoying our content please leave a written review in Apple podcasts or share us on social media.

    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $3 USD per month to help keep us on the air (larger amounts are welcome too) plus you can get a sought after Cold War Conversations 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/

    Thanks to latest Patreons

    Back to today’s episode, Jørgen tells of the close encounters with Volksmarine, The East German Navy including attempting rammings of Danish Naval vessels by the Soviet and East German Navy.

    We welcome Jørgen 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/episode116/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.


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    Taking A Holiday in Cold War Albania (115) Mar 28, 2020

    In early 1989 attention being paid to Albania in England by the English media because the England football team had recently travelled to Tirana for a World Cup qualifying game.

    Looking for somewhere unusual to holiday Mike Innes went on 10 day tour to Albania. Arriving by air he travelled by coach, staying in the hotels which catered to foreigners and favoured party members.

    If you are enjoying the podcast please leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.

    It costs money and time to produce this podcast so I’m asking listeners to contribute $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/

    Mike provides us with a view of a little known country which although outside the Warsaw Pact adhered to a strict version of Communism and whose Marxist-Leninist government ruled Albania from 1946 to 1992.

    We welcome Mike to our Cold War conversation…


    ** Correction Albania was a founder member of the Warsaw Pact and left in 1968.

    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/episode115/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


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    Life as a British Soldier in Cold War West Berlin (114) Mar 21, 2020

    Anthony enlisted in the British Army in 1987 and after 9 months he was posted to West Berlin.

    He tells the story of life as a Private in Berlin from the drinking (and the fighting) to the urban warfare training in Ruhleben & Dough Boy City. We also hear of the reality of knowing that should the Cold War have turned hot his life expectancy would have been in hours.

    It’s also a tale of tragedy and the forgotten casualties of the Cold War where injury and death could come even in peacetime. Two of Anthony’s fellow soldiers died during his two-year tour of Berlin and we’d like to dedicate this episode to remembering Lance-Corporal Ian Fleming and Lance-Corporal Mick Quayle. We thank them for their service.

    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 the podcast grow.

    If you can spare it I’m asking listeners to contribute $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/

    Special thanks to all our Patreons

    Back to today’s episode, we start with Anthony’s schooldays and end with his experiences in Berlin the night the Wall opened. I found this really entertaining story and I’m sure you will too.

    We welcome Anthony 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/episode114/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.


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    Railway Encounters in Cold War Eastern Europe (113) Mar 14, 2020

    Charlie Flowers was 18 in 1988. He travelled by train across a divided Eastern Europe that was starting to show signs of the changes that manifested themselves in 1989.

    He shares stories of the interesting encounters he had along the way.

    Now I’d like to thank some of our recent 5 star reviewers in Apple podcasts. Qwertykevboy, Fizzlepop202, simmovic, Dais28, Tim of Townsville and especially Marrdave who said “This is easily the best historical podcast out there…” I’m not sure I agree, but I’m very flattered.

    If you are enjoying the show please leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.

    Now for $3 USD per month (larger amounts are welcome too) you will get a sought after CWC coaster as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Thank you so much to our 89 generous supporters who help keep the podcast available for you all to listen to.

    In today’s episode, I have a lively conversation with Charlie and don’t miss the show notes where we share many of his photos of Eastern Europe on the cusp of major changes in Europe’s political landscape.

    We welcome Charlie 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/episode113/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.


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    Nuclear War in Cold War Britain (112) Mar 07, 2020

    For almost five decades, the United Kingdom made plans for a nuclear attack that never came. To help their citizens, civil servants and armed forces prepared those in power a variety of booklets, posters, and how-to guides.

    Taras Young is a researcher & writer who has produced a book Nuclear War in the UK detailing much of this Cold War ephemera such as the infamous Protect and Survive guide, as well as fascinating lesser-known materials prepared for the United Kingdom Warning and Monitoring Organisation and the Royal Observer Corps.

    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 the podcast grow.

    It costs money and time to produce this podcast so I’m asking listeners to contribute $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.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    In today’s episode, we delve into Taras Young’s collection in an eye-opening look at the way Britain's authorities reacted to the Soviet nuclear threat...

    We welcome Taras 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/episode112/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.


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    Serving in the Cold War British Army Intelligence Corps during the 1960s & 70s (111) Feb 29, 2020

    Harry served as a soldier in the Intelligence Corps in Germany in the 1960s and 1970s.

    His role was that of an Intelligence and Security Operator, focused on the identification of foreign and other malign activities which might undermine the effectiveness of the UK's military presence in the country. Accordingly, he had the experience of a range of security investigations and close liaison with the West German civil and military security authorities.

    Now I’m sure you are enjoying your weekly dose of Cold War history, and you’d like to continue to do so.

    So I’m asking if you wouldn’t mind supporting us by paying at least $3 USD a month – 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/

    You can also help the podcast by leaving written reviews in Apple podcasts as well as sharing us on social media.

    Back to today’s episode, Harry and I talk in detail about his service using the new wireless microphones kindly paid for by our financial supporters.…

    We welcome Harry 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 here your podcast app. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode111/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group on the following link where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Thankyou very much for listening.


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    Bonus - Dr Strangelove Film Screening in a Nuclear Bunker (110) Feb 26, 2020

    Today is a short bonus episode I recorded at the weekend while at a film showing of Dr Strangelove in a former UK Regional Seat of Government Bunker in Cheshire...

    The Hack Green Bunker is my local Cold War museum and a kind financial supporter of the podcast too so if you are ever in the Cheshire area of the UK I highly recommend a visit.

    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 the podcast grow.

    In today’s episode, I interview Lucy Siebert the Museum Director and well as some of the audience for the film showing.

    We welcome the Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker 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.

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Hack Green Bunker web site https://hackgreen.co.uk/

    Hack Green Bunker Facebook page where you can book future film showings https://www.facebook.com/HackGreenSecretNuclearBunker/


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    Stasi Infiltration of the Cold War East German Church (109) Feb 22, 2020

    When the Berlin Wall came down, the files of the East German secret police, the much-dreaded Stasi, were opened and read. And among the shocking stories revealed was that of the Stasi's infiltration of the Church.

    The Lutheran Church was the only semi-free space in East Germany, where those who rebelled against the regime could find a way of living at least a little out of the government's grip.

    Do you know how much $3 USD is in Pounds? It’s 76 pence which equals about 20p 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/

    Recent supporters include David Banvery, Daisy Birkenhead, Steve Kerins, Tim Marks and Holly Meade.

    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, author of the book "God's Spies" Elisabeth Braw tells the real-life cloak-and-dagger story of how the Stasi infiltrated churches in East Germany.

    We welcome Elizabeth to our Cold War conversation…


    UK Fans can buy the book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/2t2EZxk

    US Fans can buy the book here & support the podcast https://amzn.to/38Ks2HH

    There’s further information on this episode & the opportunity to win a free copy of the book (ends 23rd Feb 2020) in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode109/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening.

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    The Regimes Museum (108) Feb 15, 2020

    Our guest today is Marc Voss the Founder and Executive Director of The Regimes Museum which is the culmination of an effort to collect, preserve, and archive material and artifacts from some of the most notorious regimes of the 20th century. It is both a museum and an educational institution that offers resources to scholars and students while applying lessons of the past to the present.

    Now I’m sure you are enjoying your weekly dose of Cold War history, and you’d like to continue to do so.

    So I’m asking if you wouldn’t mind supporting us by paying at least $3 USD a month – 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/

    You can also help the podcast by leaving written reviews in Apple podcasts as well as sharing us on social media.

    Back to today’s episode, Marc & I have a varied chat about the nature of regimes, East German recycling, Romanian tech, Stasi coercion techniques amongst many others.

    We welcome Marc Voss 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/episode108

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.


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    Assigned to a Cold War Government Nuclear Bunker (107) Feb 08, 2020

    Regional seats of government or RSGs were a UK solution to disperse the machinery of government into the provinces, where there would be a greater chance of survival after a nuclear attack.

    Today we speak to Andrew who was assigned a role in an RSG and details his experiences on a week long training course at the Civil Defence college at Easingwold in Yorkshire during the 1980s. There’s some chilling details of the scenarios they had to prepare for…

    Now if you are enjoying your weekly dose of Cold War Conversations I’m asking if you could support us for $3 USD a month to help keep us on the air. That’s about 60 pence or 75 US cents per episode or perhaps a coffee or two a month – now that’s what I call good value. Plus, you become the envy of your friends with that sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    If you can’t donate financially then you can also help us by leaving a written review on Apple podcasts or wherever you listen to this podcast as well as sharing us on social media

    So back to today’s episode, Andrew starts with the surprising circumstances of his first notification of his RSG role.

    We welcome Andrew 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/episode107


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    The First Western Pilot to Fly the Cold War Soviet MIG 29 Fighter (106) Feb 01, 2020

    What was it like to be the first western pilot to fly the most advanced Soviet fighter aircraft? At the 1989 Abbotsford Air Show, during the dying days of the Cold War, Canadian CF-18 pilot Major Bob Wade became the first Western pilot to fly a Soviet MiG-29 Fulcrum fighter aircraft. This episode tells you how he did it.

    Now I’m sure you are enjoying your weekly dose of Cold War history, and you’d like to continue to do so.

    So I’m asking if you wouldn’t mind supporting us by paying at least $3 USD a month – 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/

    You can also help the podcast by leaving written reviews in Apple podcasts as well as sharing us on social media.

    Back to today’s episode, Bob and I talk in detail on the circumstances of the flight as well as what it was actually like to fly an aircraft you’ve never flown before with instruments in a language you don’t understand and only 10 minutes of briefing…

    We welcome Major Bob Wade 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/episode106/

    Bob is RCAF Association Honorary President for the Province of Alberta. He is also on the Board of Directors at the Military Museums RCAF Museum Society of Alberta. Their web site is at: www.rcaf.museum and they have an excellent Cold War Exhibit currently featuring an F86 Sabre, CF104 Starfighter and CF 18 Hornet.

    Bob is leading an effort to more than double the size of the display area to include NORAD assigned fighters including the CF100 Cannuck, CF101 Voodoo and a T-33 aircraft. They are in the fundraising phase at the moment and the web site has an option where interested viewers can contribute if they feel inclined. https://www.rcaf.museum/visit/coldwar-museum

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.


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    Children of the Cold War Bulgarian Silent Revolution (105) Jan 25, 2020

    What are your dreams at 18 and what happens in the next 20 years? Children of the Silent Revolution is a documentary film following a tight-knit group of classmates from Bulgaria who reveal their stories over a period of 20 years, spanning the transition from communism to democracy in their country.

    It’s a powerful memoir and love letter to the filmmaker’s classmates, as well as a compelling historical document about Bulgaria’s recent history.

    Now I’m sure you are enjoying your weekly dose of Cold War history, and you’d like to continue to do so.

    So I’m asking if you wouldn’t mind supporting us by paying at least $3 USD a month – 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/

    You can also help the podcast by leaving written reviews in Apple podcasts as well as sharing us on social media.

    Back to today’s episode, we speak with Viktoria Ershova who was born and raised in Kazanlak, Bulgaria until she went to the United States at age 18. Children of the Silent Revolution is her debut feature film.

    We welcome Viktoria Ershova 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/episode105

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening.


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    The Cold War Berlin spy tunnel - Operation Gold (103) Jan 11, 2020

    Operation Gold (also known as Operation Stopwatch by the British) was a joint operation conducted by the American Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the British MI6 Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) in the 1950s to tap into landline communication of the Soviet Army headquarters in Berlin using a tunnel into the Soviet-occupied zone.

    Steve Vogel is a veteran journalist who reported for the Washington Post and the author of Betrayal in Berlin a new book that tells the story of one of the West’s greatest espionage operations of the Cold War.

    Now I’m sure you are enjoying your weekly dose of Cold War history, and you’d like to continue to do so.

    So I’m asking if you wouldn’t mind supporting us by paying at least $3 USD a month – 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/

    Back to today’s episode, Steve’s dogged research unearthed recently declassified documents in U.S., British and German archives, many of them secret for half a century. He interviewed dozens of key participants many of whom had never spoken before about their roles.

    We welcome Steve Vogel 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/episode103/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.



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    A British Communist Working in Cold War East Germany (104) Jan 11, 2020

    John Tarver was born into a middle-class family. He joined the British Communist Party on his 18th birthday in 1948 because he felt the Soviet Union had made the most effective resistance to fascism.

    He worked as a party activist in Britain and made several trips to the GDR where he would get a job at Potsdam as head of the final year of studies in the English language.

    His 18 years’ work as a Communist party organizer set him apart from other Britons in the GDR and he became an informer for the Stasi.

    Now if this podcast was a magazine you wouldn’t mind paying a few quid or dollars a week so I’m asking you to support us for the bargain price of $3 a month. In the last few weeks John Newlove and Mike Hart have joined in helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus they’ve got the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Special thanks to Ian Hawkins who allowed me to use these audio files from his excellent documentary “My DDR T-Shirt” which will feature in the show notes.

    John Tarver talks openly about his personal, political and professional life in Britain and East Germany/GDR. He also talks about his commitment to Communism, the work he did as a Stasi agent, the fall of the Berlin Wall, the collapse of the GDR and his return in recent years to the Catholic faith.

    We welcome John Tarver to our Cold War conversation…


    There’s the full version of the "My DDR T-Shirt" documentary, further information and links on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode104/

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Working with high security clearance in the Cold War US Navy (102) Jan 04, 2020

    Jay Lieberman talks about his early childhood memories of the Cold War as well as his long career in the US Navy.

    He tells a fascinating story of how he obtained high security clearance in the US Navy and served at a number of classified command facilities including the 2nd Pentagon and the Fleet Ocean Surveillance Information Facility, at Rota, Spain.

    Now if this podcast was a magazine you wouldn’t mind paying a few quid or dollars a week so I’m asking you to support us for the bargain price of $3 a month. In the last few weeks John Newlove and Mike Hart have joined in helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus they’ve got the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    This conversation was recorded as part of the Imperial War Museum North, Voices of the Wall event commemorating 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Make sure you stay subscribed for future conversations.

    Jay talks about his various postings, his security clearance and what it was like to have such a ringside view of the Cold War.

    We welcome Jay Lieberman 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/episode102/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.


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    Interview with Ian Sanders the host and producer of Cold War Conversations (101) Jan 01, 2020

    And now for something completely different... today I’m chatting with listener Peter Ryan who will be turning the tables and questioning me about my Cold War story!

    Now, listeners, I can see you are enjoying the podcast by the increasing listener numbers so if you’d like the podcast to continue all I’m asking for a few quid or dollars a month to help keep us on the air plus you become the envy of your friends with that sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    If you can’t donate financially then you can also help us by leaving a written review on Apple podcasts or wherever you consume this podcast.

    By the way, we’ve opened a Cold War Conversations merchandise store to help support us, just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/

    This conversation was recorded at the Barbican Centre in London, so excuse some random noises in the background.

    Peter asks me about how the podcast started, what motivates me alongside my recommended Cold War movies.

    We welcome Peter Ryan 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/episode101/

    If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.

    Thankyou very much for listening.


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    Manuel - Experiences of the Reforger 82 NATO Exercise (100) Dec 28, 2019

    Manuel Alzaga returns to the podcast after his debut in episode 57 with his experiences as US Army 18-year-old assistant artillery gunner in West Germany. He tells of his first impressions of West Germany, details of the 1982 Reforger exercise (return of forces to Germany) Exercise, as well as the life expectancy of a front line soldier on the East German border, should the Cold War had turned hot.

    Now if this podcast was a magazine you wouldn’t mind paying a few quid or dollars a week so I’m asking you to support us for the bargain price of $3 a month.

    You join a select band who help cover the show’s increasing costs, keep us on the air and bask in the warm glow of being official supporters of the podcast – they also receive the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So to today’s episode, Manuel's story starts as he steps off the plane at the Rhein-Main Air Base which was the primary airlift and passenger hub for United States forces in Europe.

    We welcome Manuel Alzaga back to our Cold War Conversation...


    Don't miss extra videos on our show notes page at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode100


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    A Cold War Mystery - Death in Ice Valley (99) Dec 21, 2019

    There’s an area near Bergen, Norway known as Isdalen (“Ice Valley”), but also nicknamed "Death Valley", due to the area's history of suicides in the Middle Ages, and more recent hiking accidents. In November 1970 a man and his two young daughters noting an unusual burning smell and to their horror discovered the charred body of a woman, located among some scree.

    Now if this podcast was a magazine you wouldn’t mind paying a few quid or dollars a week so I’m asking you to support us for the bargain price of $3 a month. In the last few weeks Pete Hobson, Richard Goyette, Hamish Macintyre, Alastair Bassett, David Roberts, James Marks and Richard Harvey have joined in helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus they’ve got the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode – We speak with Marit Higraff, an investigative reporter for the Norwegian broadcaster NRK, who has investigated this case and is the co-presenter of the Death in Ice Valley podcast.

    Welcome Marit to our Cold War conversation

    Well I hope that’s whetted your appetite to explore the Death in Ice Valley podcast.

    There’s further information and links on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode99/

    If you like what you are hearing please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    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.


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    Red Elvis, Dean Reed Cold War cowboy and Eastern Bloc Music Star Episode 2 (98) Dec 14, 2019

    We return to Ramona Reed’s account of her father, Dean Reed who was an American actor, singer, songwriter, director, and Socialist who became a huge star in Latin America and the Eastern Bloc.

    Now if you like the podcast you can help to support us for the price of a couple of coffees a month. You’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    If that’s not your cup of tea, you can also help us by placing a written review on Itunes. This helps to raise our profile and get new guests on the show.

    So back to today’s episode – Ramona continues the story with details of the latter years of her father’s life as well her theories about his death.

    We welcome Ramona back to our Cold War conversation…


    Episode 1 of this interview is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode97

    If you like what you are hearing sign up to our email list at coldwarconversations.com.

    We have further photos and information on this episode in our show notes which will show as a link in your podcast app. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode98

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Red Elvis, Dean Reed the US music star behind the Iron Curtain - Episode 1 (97) Dec 07, 2019

    Ramona Reed’s father was Dean Reed an American actor, singer, songwriter, director, and Socialist who became a huge star in Latin America and the Eastern Bloc.

    Now if you like the podcast you can help to support us for the price of a couple of coffees a month. You’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    If that’s not your cup of tea, you can also help us by placing a written review on Itunes. This helps to raise our profile and get new guests on the show.

    So back to today’s episode – Ramona was born in 1968 and gives insight into his life via private correspondence, but also what it was like to be the daughter of such a huge Eastern Bloc star.

    We welcome Ramona to our Cold War conversation…


    Episode 2 of this interview is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode98/


    We have further photos and information on this episode in our episode notes at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode97/

    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/

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    Tales of my Father (96) Dec 03, 2019

    Today has been a difficult day. My Dad has just died. It was expected, but these things hit you nonetheless.


    He was a good father, a good man with many varied interests including art, photography, and history. All of which he passed onto me. In particular, it was history, which has ultimately resulted in this podcast.


    I hope my listeners will indulge me today as this episode is not about the Cold War but is a recording I made of a chat I had with my Dad way before I had any thought of Cold War Conversations, or maybe this chat was the genesis – who knows?


    It would be nice if it was and a fitting tribute, but anyway here’s me and my Dad chatting about his experiences during World War 2.


    We welcome Graham Sanders to our Cold War Conversation…


    More photos are on this link https://coldwarconversations.com/episode96/


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    Alexander - A Conscript in the Soviet Navy (95) Nov 30, 2019

    Alexander ‘Sasha’ Goncharov was born in Leningrad but early in this life moved to Ukraine. After leaving school he was drafted into the Soviet Military and was based in Sevastopol where he worked in Naval Aviation servicing anti-ship weapons systems. At the end of this period, Sasha decided to stay in the military to make it a full-time career. He was sent to Moscow where he trained as a full-time linguist. He was posted to Syria and Libya facilitating interactions between local forces and their Soviet advisors.

    Now if this podcast was a magazine you wouldn’t mind paying a few quid or dollars a week so I’m asking you to support us for the bargain price of $3 a month. In the last few weeks John Newlove and Mike Hart have joined in helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus they’ve got the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode – Alexander left the Russian military as a Lt Colonel and is the Co-Organiser of an Anglo-Russian charity which looks to bring Russians who fought in World War II to the UK to visit.

    We welcome Lt Colonel Alexander Goncharov 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/episode95/

    If you like what you are hearing please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.

    Can’t you wait for next week’s episode? Do visit our facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/


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    The Strange World of Cold War Romanian Football (94) Nov 23, 2019

    In this episode, we hear from Craig McCracken who spoke to us in episode 3. This time he tells us about the strange world of football in Cold War Romania and even if you are not interested in football it’s a fascinating chat about Cold War Romania.

    Craig runs the website, Beyond the Last Man, described as 20th century football writing and nostalgia in a skilled and cultured groove. He really knows his stuff.

    Are you liking the podcast and want to help? Well, for the price of a couple of coffees a month you can help cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode, we talk of the early Cold War years where pre-war clubs were dissolved in favour of the big two (Steaua & Dinamo) through to the societal breakdown of the 1980s with defections, corruption, zombie clubs and an unlikely European Cup success.

    I’m delighted to welcome back Craig McCracken to our Cold War Conversation…

    As you can hear Craig really knows his stuff and I highly recommend a visit to his web site, Beyond The Last Man for numerous Cold War Football stories. We have a link to his site and various Romanian football videos in our show notes at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode94/ which will show in your podcast app.

    If you can’t wait for the next episode do visit our facebook discussion group where our guests and listeners like yourselves continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations.https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/

    Thank you very much listening, it is really appreciated – goodbye!


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    The Berlin Wall - Frederick Taylor (93) Nov 16, 2019

    Our interview today is with Frederick Taylor, the author of one of my favourite books on the Berlin Wall. Using official history, archive research and personal stories he has produced one of the definitive books on the Berlin Wall.

    BUY THE BOOK AND SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE

    Now if you like the podcast you can help to support us for the price of a couple of coffees a month. You’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode - James speaks with Fred who provides some great accounts of his personal experiences in Berlin as well as the story of the Berlin Wall and its eventual destruction.

    We welcome Fred Taylor 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 here your podcast app. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode93/

    If you like what you are hearing sign up to our email list at https://coldwarconversations.com/

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Gillian - A US Student at the opening of the Berlin Wall (92) Nov 11, 2019

    We speak again with Gillian, who was our guest in episodes 42 & 48. Gillian was in Berlin the night of 9th November 1989 and describes what she saw.

    Now if you like the podcast you can help to support us for the price of a couple of coffees a month. You’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode – Gillian gives us the viewpoint of a US student in Berlin on that pivotal night on 20th Century history. She tell us of her first discovery that this was going to be a night to remember and the sights and sounds of that night.

    We welcome Gillian back to our Cold War conversation…


    We have further photos and information on this episode in our show notes which will show as a link in your podcast app. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode92/


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    Alastair Witnesses the Wende (91) Nov 10, 2019

    Alastair took up a teaching post in Halle, East Germany in August 1989 and continued to work in Halle for the next 9 years, seeing the unraveling of the GDR first hand.

    Now if you like the podcast you can help to support us for the price of a couple of coffees a month. You’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode – Alastair arrived just in time to see the early protests and the opening of the border with West Germany. He recounts the Wende with some great stories detailing the impact of the Wende and the effects of reunification.

    We welcome Alastair to our Cold War conversation…

    If you like what you are hearing sign up to our email list at coldwarconversations.com.

    We have further photos and information on this episode in our show notes which will show as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode91

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    The Opening of the Berlin Wall (90) Nov 09, 2019

    Our interview today is in a different format. Cold war Conversations is working with the Imperial War Museum on a project called Voices of the Wall. We will be capturing personal testimonies of people’s experiences of the Cold War which will later become part of the podcast.

    Therefore, this episode is a composite of previous and unheard interviews of how people heard about the momentous opening of the Berlin Wall 30 year to the date this podcast is published.

    Now I can see a large increase in listeners of late with some of you binge listening the entire back catalogue. If this podcast was a magazine you wouldn’t mind paying a few quid or dollars a week so I’m asking you to support us for the bargain price of $3 a month. In the last few weeks Anders Ollson, Gregory Morrow, Michael Noble, Bernd Wagegg Mark Wiegers, Brian Carroll, and Scott Gregory have joined in helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus they’ve got the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode – We have some great some stories from that momentous day in 1989

    Welcome to our Cold War conversation

    There’s further information on this episode and other other Berlin Wall episodes in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode90/


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    Checkpoint Charlie: The Berlin Wall and the most dangerous place on Earth (89) Nov 07, 2019

    Our interview today is with Iain MacGregor, the author of a new book on Checkpoint Charlie. Weaving together personal testimonies, this book is described as a gripping narrative with vivid interviews with those on all sides whose lives were directly affected by that grim symbol of the East-West divide that poisoned Europe for almost half a century.

    BUY THE BOOK AND SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE

    Now if you like the podcast you can help to support us from $3 a month. You’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode – Iain MacGregor tells us about some great stories from the history of Checkpoint Charlie featuring a number of guests from the podcast as well as a number of stories unknown to me.

    We welcome Iain Macgregor 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/episode89

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Life as a Soviet Child Refugee in West Germany (88) Nov 02, 2019

    In this episode, we continue Andrej’s story with his sometimes, harrowing memories of how he became a child refugee in West Germany.

    Now if you like what your hearing then for the price of a couple of coffees a month you’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode – Andrej starts with the gradual building of unrest in East Germany and his family’s dramatic move to West Germany. It’s a sad story in parts, but ultimately you hear of Andrej’s triumph over adversity working for the US Forces in Germany.

    We welcome back Andrej to our Cold War conversation…


    I do hope you found Andrej’s story interesting. We have further photos and information in our show notes which are at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode88/ or will show as a link in some podcast apps.


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    British Forces in Germany: The Lived Experience 1945-2019 (87) Oct 30, 2019

    Dr Peter Johnston is the Head of Collections Research and Academic Access at the National Army Museum in London and the author of a lavishly illustrated military and social history of the British forces in Germany during the Cold War.

    BUY THE BOOK AND SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE

    Now if you like the podcast you can help to support us for the price of a couple of coffees a month. You’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to today’s episode - James speaks with Peter who provides some great accounts of the experiences of British soldiers Germany.

    We welcome Peter to our Cold War conversation…


    We have further photos, videos and information on this episode in our show notes here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode87/


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    Growing up on a Soviet base in East Germany (86) Oct 25, 2019

    Andrej's father served with the Soviet Army in Germany. He grew up on a military base and shares his childhood memories as East Germany began to disintegrate.

    So would you like one of those Cold War Conversations coasters you keep hearing me talk about? Well it's easy, just sign up to https://www.patreon.com/coldwarpod and for the price of a couple of coffees a month you'll be helping to cover the costs of the show and keep us on the air plus you get that sought after coaster of to you just go to

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    So back to you today's episode. Andrej's father was a lieutenant in Signals and Andrej provides a fascinating child's eye view of life on the base and in his East German kindergarten as well as insight into the changing mood of some of the East German population to the Soviets as the GDR began to disintegrate.

    Next week they'll be a second episode with Andrej where we hear his experiences as a child refugee in West Germany after the Wall fell. Do make you are subscribed via your favorite podcast app so you don't miss that.


    I'm delighted to welcome Andrej to our Cold War Conversation...


    I do hope you found Andrej’s story interesting. We have further photos, videos and information in our show notes which are at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode86/ or will show as a link in some podcast apps.

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Childhood at the Hungarian Border with Austria (85) Oct 18, 2019

    Balint grew up in Hungary right next to the border with Austria. Part of his family escaped in 1956 and went to Australia. Balint’s grandfather survived 4 years in a Gulag camp.

    Would you like a CWC Coaster? It’s easy, sign up to Patreon and for the price of a couple of coffees a month you’ll be helping to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

    Back to today episode, Balint’s home village was a hot spot for escapes being so close to the border. The locals knew the area well and helped many people across for money. He tells that his Dad used to play right next to the fence with his friends often messing with the border guards. They could see tractors in the Austrian side working the fields. One quick note before we start, Balint now lives in Ireland, hence the Irish accent you will hear in the recording.

    We welcome Balint to our Cold War conversation…

    We have further photos and information in our show notes which are at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode85 or will show as a link in some podcast apps.


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    Life on a Cold War Polaris Nuclear Missile Submarine (84) Oct 11, 2019

    As a restless and adventurous 18-year-old, Richard Humphreys joined the submarine service in 1985 and went on to serve aboard the nuclear deterrent for five years at the end of the Cold War.


    Now before we start his story as I’d like to tell you about some of our fans who are helping the podcast financially such as Liam Doyle, Sarah Ampolsk, Philippe Branco, Victor Osprey and Richard Orman. So how do you join this select band? Then sign up to Patreon. For the price of a couple of coffees a month you help to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.


    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/


    Back to today episode, Richard has just published his book called “Under Pressure” described by historian James Holland as “'An utterly fascinating and wonderfully detailed insight into the hidden - and frequently disorientating and claustrophobic - world of the modern submariner, this richly compelling and hugely entertaining memoir brilliantly conveys the tension, huge responsibility, culture and, of course, humour, of being a crewman on the nuclear deterrent.”


    You can have the chance to win a free copy via the information in our show notes here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode84/ The show notes also contains a documentary film of life aboard one of these boats.


    We welcome Richard Humphreys to our Cold War conversation.



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    Mark - Eyewitness to the events of 1989 (83) Oct 04, 2019

    Mark Baker was a journalist in Vienna who covered Czechoslovakia during the 1980s. In a wide ranging conversations we discuss the events of 1989 with Mark providing some vivid accounts of his experiences and how events were viewed at the time.


    Now as I’m sure you know some of our fans who are helping the podcast financially, so if you’d like to join this select band? Then sign up to Patreon. For the price of a couple of coffees a month you help to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to

    https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/


    Mark is now an independent journalist and travel writer who’s lived in Central Europe for more than two decades. He loves the history, literature, culture, and mystery of this often-overlooked corner of Europe, and makes his living writing articles and guidebooks about the region. Do visit his excellent Eastern Europe Blog which contains a number of Cold War stories here


    Visit the show notes here

    https://coldwarconversations.com/episode83/


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    A Cold War Romance (82) Sep 27, 2019

    In 1986 GDR student Antje met a British guy who was installing sewing machines in the hosiery companies in East Germany. Unusually he was given quite a bit of freedom to socialise locally and he eventually asked Antje to marry him. However, with her prospective husband being a citizen of the capitalist West the process was far from simple…

    Now talking of the Capitalist West I’m sure you know some of our fans who are helping the podcast monthly via Patreon, so if you’d like to join this select band? Then head over to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Back to today’s episode, Antje describes her early life in the GDR and how romance blossomed between East & West, despite the best efforts of East German bureaucracy to thwart the union. Now the story does have somewhat of a twist towards the end so make sure you keep listening.


    If you enjoyed this episode here is the other side of the coin. Genuine laugh out loud moments. "A 22 year old Briton working in East Germany (170)"

    We recorded our chat at The Barbican Centre in London, so excuse any background noise, I’m delighted to welcome Antje to Cold War Conversations

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Eyewitness to the 1991 Soviet Coup (81) Sep 20, 2019

    As a 24-year-old Kieran Williams was in Moscow staying with Soviet friends when the 1991 Moscow Coup occurred.

    He is a Professor at Drake University in the United States and previously he taught for nine years at University College London's School of Slavonic and East European Studies, where he was an associate professor in politics as well as a frequent consultant to the UK Foreign Office. He is a specialist in the politics of Central and Eastern Europe, he has authored or co-authored four books, including a prize-winning account of the 1968 events in Czechoslovakia and a biography of the writer-statesman Václav Havel.

    Now as I’m sure you know some of our fans who are helping the podcast financially, so if you’d like to join this select band? Then sign up to Patreon. For the price of a couple of coffees a month you help to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to Patreon.com/coldwarpod

    Back to today’s episode, Kieran gives a rich eyewitness account of those edgy days with vivid descriptions of what he saw and felt during those tumultuous days.

    I’m delighted to welcome Kieran Williams to Cold War Conversations


    Do visit our show notes at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode81 These include Kieran's photos of the Coup and some amazing audio he recorded in the streets of Moscow at the time - well worth a look!


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    Cuban Missile Crisis U2 Squadron Commander (80) Sep 13, 2019

    Col. William "Greg" Gregory served in the U.S. Army Air Corps and saw extensive combat over North Africa and Europe during World War 2.

    When the Air Force was created he continued his role as a pilot and eventually became part of the clandestine U-2 spy plane program, rising to the position of squadron commander. It was his squadron that flew many of the spy missions over Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

    He was later awarded a medal by the CIA for his service, as well as a letter of appreciation by President Kennedy.

    However…before we start I have to thank our fans who are helping the podcast financially.

    So how do you join this select band? Well sign up to Patreon for the price of a couple of coffees a month you help to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to Patreon.com/coldwarpod

    Today’s episode is brought in conjunction with The Cold War Museum and I’m delighted to welcome Col William Gregory to Cold War Conversations.

    It was such an honour to speak to Greg and hear first-hand from someone so deeply involved in the Cuban Missile Crisis. Thanks again to the Cold War Museum for arranging the conversation.

    If you’d like to learn more then head over to our show notes which are at coldwarconversations.com/episode80 or will show as a link in some podcast apps. The show notes also have some videos relating to this


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    Bridget Kendall - BBC Moscow Correspondent 1989 - 1995 (79) Sep 06, 2019

    Today we have James taking the helm again with a fascinating chat with Bridget Kendall, the BBC's Moscow correspondent from 1989 to 1995 when she was witness to the power struggles in the Soviet Communist party as Mikhail Gorbachev tried to introduce reform.

    However…before we start I have to thank our fans who are helping the podcast financially.

    So how do you join this select band? Well sign up to Patreon for the price of a couple of coffees a month you help to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air, plus you get the sought after CWC coaster too.

    Just go to Patreon.com/coldwarpod

    So back to today’s episode. I’m delighted to welcome back James and his Cold War Conversation with Bridget Kendall.


    If you’d like to learn more and maybe didn’t get a chance to write down those book recommendations then head over to our show notes which are at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode79 or will show as a link in some podcast apps.


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    Watching Socialism: The Cold War Television Revolution in Eastern Europe (78) Aug 30, 2019

    Today we’re at the Wende Museum in Los Angeles at their Watching Socialism exhibition. Organized in collaboration with British-Slovenian media historian Sabina Mihelj and British cultural historian Susan Reid, this exhibition focuses on the impact of Cold War-era television programming in Eastern and Western Europe on private lives.

    Now many of our fans are the proud owners of a Cold War Conversations Coaster, a gift from me to thank them for helping the podcast financially.

    So how do you join this select band? Well for the price of a couple of coffees a month to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air you can get a coaster too.

    Just go to Patreon.com/coldwarpod

    So back to today’s episode. I’m delighted to welcome Anna Rose Canzano of the Wende Museum to Cold War Conversations.


    If you’d like to learn more and see photos of the Wende museum and exhibition then head over to our show notes which are at coldwarconversations.com/episode78 or will show as a link in some podcast apps. The show notes also have some videos relating to this episode.


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    Defending the Cold War Pershing 2 nuclear missile (77) Aug 23, 2019

    Phil Logan served in the US Army from 1986-1991. He went through infantry school at Fort Benning, Georgia was sent to Germany and assigned to the ground defence force for the Pershing II tactical nuclear missiles. He describes in some detail defence tactics including against Special Forces, the Red Army Faction and anti-nuclear demonstrators.

    Phil was also there when the INF disarmament treaty was signed and recalls the Soviet inspectors visiting to verify the treaty obligations.

    Now many of our fans are the proud owners of a Cold War Conversations Coaster, a gift from me to thank them for helping the podcast financially.

    So how do you join this select band? Well for the price of a couple of coffees a month to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air you can get a coaster too.

    Just go to Patreon.com/coldwarpod

    So back to today’s episode. I’m delighted to welcome Phil Logan to Cold War Conversations.

    Check out the videos relating to this episodein our show notes which are here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode77/


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    The early days of the Cold War US Space program and origins of GPS (76) Aug 16, 2019

    Richard Easton is the co-author of GPS Declassified which examines the development of GPS or Sat Nav as some of us call it now, from its secret, Cold War military roots.


    Roger Easton, Richard's father, assisted in laying the foundations for the GPS system. However, Roger Easton worked also on the early US space program and Richard vividly describes his childhood when his father was working on the early US satellites.

    Visit the show notes here for videos and more information.


    Now before we start a special thanks to our select band of supporters who are helping us financially for the price of a cup of coffee a month to cover our increasing costs and keep us on the air. They are the proud owners of a CWC coaster- this years must have household accessory! Click here for more information.


    We welcome Richard Easton to Cold War Conversations.


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    Cold War Spy Stories from Eastern Europe (75) Aug 09, 2019

    Today we’re talking to Alison Lewis, a professor in German at the University of Melbourne.


    She is the author of several books, including one in German about love and gender in literature during Germany's reunification and a book in German about the Stasi's infiltration of the literary underground. We spoke to Alison in episode 71.


    In this episode we talk about her latest collaboration a new book called "Cold War Spy Stories from Eastern Europe."


    The book brings together a wide range of accounts compiled from the East German Stasi, the Romanian Securitate, and the Ukrainian KGB files.


    Now many of our fans are the proud owners of a Cold War Conversations Coaster, a gift from me to thank them for helping the podcast financially. In July Peter Lawaetz Winkler, Simon Curtis, Remy Louviere, Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker and Thomas Pohlentz joined this select band.


    For the price of a couple of coffees a month to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air you can get a coaster too? Just go to Patreon.com/coldwarpod


    So back to today’s episode. We recorded in Manchester Central Library so do forgive us for any weird background noises. I’m delighted to welcome Prof Alison Lewis to Cold War Conversations.


    Show notes available here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode75/


    Buy the book on this link and help support the podcast.


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    A visit to World War 2 and Cold War airbase RAF Burtonwood (74) Aug 02, 2019

    I’m here today at the RAF Burtonwood Heritage Centre, near Warrington in the UK. Based on what was once the largest and longest-running military airbase in Britain. The Heritage Centre was established to preserve and uphold the history of the men, women and activities that occurred here.



    Now many of our fans are the proud owners of a Cold War Conversations Coaster, a gift from me to thank them for helping the podcast financially.



    For the price of a cup of coffee a month to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air you can get a coaster too?

    Just go to Patreon.com/coldwarpod


    Over 8,500 Americans were based at RAF Burtonwood during WW2 and over 70,000 service personnel served here during its 54-year history until closure in 1993. The heritage centre packs a lot of history in and make sure your listen to my visit to the cockpit of an actual C54 Skymaster as used in the Berlin Airlift – an unforgettable experience.


    Back to today’s episode, we welcome John Coterill, the Heritage Centre Manager at RAF Burtonwood to our Cold War Conversation


    Visit the show notes here.


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    Breaking the news of the 1991 Soviet Coup (73) Jul 26, 2019

    We speak today with Alistair Coleman who joined BBC Monitoring as a technician in 1989, just in time for the Berlin Wall.


    He was on a console night shift at Caversham, on the night of the coup against Soviet Leader Gorbachev in 1991 and describes that night as the highlight of his career at the time.


    Thanks to Andrew Adolfson, Rick Mason, Mike Smith, Ade Bryant and Ole Bjørsvik, the latest members of our select band of supporters who are helping us financially for the price of a cup of coffee a month to help keep us on the air. They will shortly be the proud owners of a CWC coaster- don’t you want one too?

    Just click here


    Back to today’s episode, Alistair spent 15 years in short wave radio, radio telegraphy and satellite reception and research, providing the signals for monitors and editors to see foreign media. He tells a fascinating story of how the BBC obtained information about activity behind the Iron Curtain.


    We welcome Alistair Coleman to our Cold War Conversation.


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    Chasing the Moon - The Apollo 11 Moon Landing (72) Jul 19, 2019

    In a world divided by the ideological struggles of the Cold War, the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, more than one-fifth of the people on the planet paused to watch the live transmission of the Apollo 11 mission. To watch as humanity took a giant leap forward exactly 50 years ago.


    Now before we start a special thanks to our select band of supporters who are helping us financially for the price of a cup of coffee a month to cover our increasing costs and keep us on the air. They are the proud owners of a CWC coaster- this years must have household accessory! Click here for more information.


    Today we speak with Robert Stone an Oscar- and Emmy-nominated documentary filmmaker and Alan Andres co-authors of the book “Chasing the Moon” companion book to the landmark documentary series on BBC TV, PBS and other channels around the world.


    We Welcome Robert Stone and Alan Andres to Cold War Conversations


    There’s loads more content including videos, audio and links to the book and documentary in the show notes - just click here.



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    Stasi Infiltration of the Prenzlauer Berg Underground Literary Scene (71) Jul 12, 2019

    In this episode we speak with Dr Alison Lewis is Professor of German in the School of Languages and Linguistics, The University of Melbourne, Australia. She is the a co-author of Cold War Spy Stories from Eastern Europe which is published in August 2019.


    Now several of our fans are the proud owners of a Cold War Conversations Coaster, a gift from me to thank them for helping the podcast financially.


    For the price of a couple of coffees a month to cover the show’s increasing costs and keep us on the air you can get a coaster too?


    Just go click here


    Back to today’s episode Dr Lewis is also author of The Art of Betrayal: Prenzlauer Berg and State Security published in 2003 which is the subject of this episode.



    If you can’t wait for the next episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where our guests and listeners like yourselves continue the Cold War Conversation.



    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Secret Cold War Dutch submarine missions (70) Jul 05, 2019

    During the Cold War, six Dutch submarines secretly gathered intelligence about the Soviet Navy. Only a handful of people outside the Royal Netherlands Navy were aware of these operations, as they were not NATO operations.


    Thanks to our latest financial supporters Victor Osprey, Joe Collins, Eric Telander and Andrew Tyler who are helping us financially for the price of a cup of coffee or two a month to cover our increasing costs and keep us on the air. They will shortly be the proud owners of a CWC coaster- don’t you want one too? Click here


    For the first time, In Deepest Secrecy describes these top-secret deployments in detail. On the basis of interviews and archival research, Jaime Karremann reveals how the Dutch submarines followed, photographed and listened to Soviet ships unnoticed, from the freezing Arctic Ocean to shallow waters near Egypt.




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    A US Soldier defects to Cold War East Germany – Part 2 (69) Jun 28, 2019

    We continue the story of Victor Grossman the US Army soldier who defected to East Germany. He tells us of his life in the GDR, his close friendship with Dean Reed “The Red Elvis”, of shortages, his views on Egon Krenz and his first trip back to the US in the 1990s.



    Thanks to our select band of supporters who are helping us financially for the price of a cup of coffee a month to cover our increasing costs and keep us on the air. They are the proud owners of a CWC coaster- don’t you want one too? Click here.



    Visit the show notes here.


    We welcome Victor Grossman back to Cold War Conversations


    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Nuking the Moon & Other Cold War Intelligence Schemes & Military Plots left on the Drawing Board (68) Jun 21, 2019

    We talk with Vince Houghton – Curator of the International Spy Museum who has just written a new book called “Nuking the Moon & Other Intelligence Schemes & Military Plots left on the Drawing Board"


    If you’d to send us a few quid to help me run the podcast click here. Thankyou so much to our latest Supporters


    Leaving reviews on Itunes also helps so thanks to our latest reviewers Cheeses Word 101, Martini Glass Bob, Zach 1998!, GM0WDD, Balint Kaman, Trilbyhat, Skjip1969, Peteyinmontreal, GDR Objectified


    So back to today’s episode, do listen to the end as we talk Cold War Espionage whilst Vince answers my “Quick Fire” questions.


    We welcome Vince Houghton to our Cold War Conversation


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    Janina - Life in a Cold War East German village near the Polish border (67) Jun 14, 2019

    Todays episode is different, the interviewer is not me, but one of our listeners who contacted me to help produce content for the podcast. This gave me the idea for a new area of the podcast called “Cold War Contributions” where listeners can send in audio interviews for broadcast on the show. Email me at Ian@coldwarpod.com if you are interested.


    If you’d to send us a few quid to help me run the podcast click here. Thank you so much to our latest Supporters


    Leaving reviews on Itunes also helps so thanks to our latest reviewers Cheeses Word 101, Martini Glass Bob, Zach 1998!, GM0WDD, Balint Kaman, Trilbyhat, Skjip1969, Peteyinmontreal, GDR Objectified


    So back to today's episode. James has been a fan of the show from the start and in this episode he speaks with a work colleague who lived in East Germany. We give a warm welcome to James our latest Cold War Conversations Host….

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Cold War fiction - Liberation Square (66) Jun 07, 2019

    Gareth Rubin is an author and journalist and today we’re talking to him about his latest novel, Liberation Square set in a Soviet occupied UK in the 1950s.


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    Just click here to learn more.


    So back to Gareth’s novel, After the disastrous failure of D-Day, Britain is occupied by Nazi Germany, and only rescued by Russian soldiers arriving from the east and Americans from the west. The two superpowers divide the nation between them, a wall running through London like a scar.


    We welcome Gareth Rubin to our Cold War Conversation.


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    A tour of Cold War airbase RAF Upper Heyford (65) May 31, 2019

    In this episode we visit RAF Upper Heyford for a photography tour for Cold War enthusiasts …


    The episode is in three parts, the first is some audio from the tour, followed by an interview with Ric Batson a former member of the USAF 20th Security Police Squadron and tour guide as well as an interview with his wife who is also a tour guide covering some aspects of the challenges of being the British wife of USAF service personnel.


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    Arrested by the Stasi on an East Berlin day trip (64) May 24, 2019

    Todd Anton was arrested by the Stasi while on a day trip to East Berlin and gives a raw and powerful account of his arrest, interrogation and eventual release.


    If you’d like to support us then from the price of a cup of coffee a month you can help us cover our increasing costs and keep us on the air as well as receive a Cold War Conversations coaster- this year’s sought after household accessory!


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    We welcome Todd Anton to our Cold War Conversation.

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Flying the Cold War CF-104 Starfighter over Germany (63) May 17, 2019

    Laurie Hawn is a retired Canadian Member of Parliament and former career fighter pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force.


    Laurie tells the story of low level delivery of nuclear weapons via the Starfighter as well as conventional missions. Also we get insight into the escape, evasion and interrogation training given to NATO pilots.


    As the podcast gets more popular our costs of hosting and running the podcast increase. If you are enjoying what you hear a few dollars, pounds or roubles a month help keep us on the air. Head over our web site to learn more. Thank you so much to all our fans that are supporting us – it is really appreciated!

    Now back to today’s episode where you won't want to miss the story of how Laurie got his nickname of "Hawnski".



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    Disarming Doomsday - The Human Impact of Nuclear Weapons since Hiroshima (62) May 10, 2019

    In this episode we speak with Dr Becky-Alexis Martin who is a lecturer in Cultural and Political Geography at Manchester Metropolitan University and author of Disarming Doomsday – The Human Impact of Nuclear Weapons since Hiroshima.

    If you like what you’re hearing then from the price of a cup of coffee a month you can help us cover our increasing costs and keep us on the air as well as receive a Cold War Conversations coaster- this year’s sought after household accessory!

    Just click here. Thank you so much to our current and latest Patrons.

    We welcome Dr Becky Alexis-Martin to our Cold War Conversation.


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    A Cold War US Soldier defects to East Germany (61) May 03, 2019

    What could make a privileged 24-year-old American serving in the US Army in Germany in 1952 to swim across the Danube River to what was then the Soviet Zone?


    Victor Grossman who was born Stephen Wechsler but changed his name after defecting to the GDR. A child of the Depression, Grossman grew up in an environment that nurtured a commitment to left-wing causes. He continued his involvement with Communist activities as a student at Harvard in the late 1940s and after graduation, when he took jobs in factories in Buffalo, New York and tried to organize their workers.


    After being drafted into the US Army and fearful of his discovery as a communist Grossman ended up in GDR with other Western defectors, He was able to establish himself as a freelance journalist, lecturer and author. Travelling through East Germany he saw the failures as well as the successes of the GDR's "socialist experiment".


    While some of you will disagree with Victor's views, his first-hand account of his experiences is an important part of Cold War history.


    We start my Cold War Conversation with Victor telling us about this early life in the United States.



    Episode 2 is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode69/

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Working at the British Embassy in Cold War Bucharest (60) Apr 26, 2019

    In this episode we speak with Colin Munro who has had an extensive career with the British Diplomatic Service.



    Today we speak about his time as Head of Chancery in Bucharest, Romania between 1981 to 1982. He provides a vivid view of a country initiating a policy of total repayment of the foreign debt by imposing austerity that impoverished the population and exhausted the economy.


    If you like what you’re hearing then from the price of a cup of coffee a month you can help keep us on the air.


    Just click here for more information . Thankyou so much to our latest Patron, Jamie Williams.


    Now back to today’s episode where we start with Colin describing his role within the embassy.


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    A 1980s trip on the Trans Siberian Railway (59) Apr 19, 2019

    In this episode we speak with Mark Wiegers who travelled on the Trans-Siberian Railway in the late 1980s. His story tells of trouble with officialdom, the unexpected kindness of strangers and the beauty of a Soviet Union on the cusp of major change. Mark has taken a stunning set of photos on his journey which you can view below. I really recommend you take a look via our show notes here.


    If you want to help us out with the costs of hosting and running the podcast then from the price of a cup of coffee a month you can really make a difference. Click here. Thankyou so much to our latest Patrons, Daniel Neville, Brendan, Lloyd Watkin & Tim Brown.


    Now back to today’s episode where we start with Mark and his friend in East Berlin.


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    58 - Red Reporter - Covert Correspondent for East Germany - Part 2 Apr 12, 2019

    In this episode, we welcome back John Green to talk further about his covert journalism for East Germany.


    His story continues with his account of the Portuguese Carnation Revolution and a dangerous assignment to Pinochet’s Chile where he comes face to face with the infamous Dictator.


    We join my Cold War Conversation with John Green in Portugal.


    Can't wait for the next episode? Visit our discussion group here

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    A 17 year old in the Cold War US Army (57) Apr 05, 2019

    Today we speak to Manuel Alzaga who as a 17 year old joined the US Army in 1981.



    Manuel signed up to the artillery and tells his story from life of poverty in Los Angeles through to deployment in West Germany for a Reforger exercise.


    Before we get going you can really help us get more listeners by leaving reviews on Itunes or with your favourite podcast provider. This really helps raise our profile and get guests on the show.


    If you’d like to support us with a few dollars, pounds or roubles then head over to cwc.com and click here to learn more. Thank you so much to all our fans that are supporting us – it is really appreciated!



    Now back to today’s episode. We start by talking about Manuel’s early life.



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    The Cold War Candy Bomber (56) Mar 30, 2019

    We speak to 98 year old Gail Halvorsen aka "The Candy Bomber" who flew in the Berlin Airlift in 1948.


    The Soviets had started a 11-month land blockade against West Berlin. The blockade was broken by a massive U.S.-British airlift of vital supplies to West Berlin. Gail tells an incredible story of an iconic humanitarian mission at the dawn of the Cold War.


    Now if you’d like to support our operating costs with a few dollars, pounds or roubles then head click here to learn more. Thank you so much to all our fans that are supporting us – it is really appreciated!


    If that’s not your cup of tea then you can really help us by leaving reviews on Itunes or with your favourite podcast provider. This really helps raise our profile and get guests on the show.


    Now back to today’s episode. The line wasn’t great, but I felt so honoured to be able to speak with Gail.





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    Why Preserve Cold War Communist Architecture? (55) Mar 23, 2019

    We welcome back Mark Baker from episode 9 where we spoke about his time in 1980s Czechoslovakia.


    Mark is a freelance journalist & travel writer living in his adopted hometown of Prague. I really recommend his blog which can be found here.



    Mark has lived in Central Europe for more than two decades and seeks out communist architecture in his home town and further afield. He is the ideal candidate to discuss the question “Why preserve Communist architecture?”



    Now back to today’s episode. Welcome back Mark Baker!



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    Cold War Canadians Hunt For Red October (54) Mar 16, 2019

    Colonel Terry Chester spent a good portion of his RCAF career hunting for Soviet Submarines in both the Pacific and Atlantic area's of operation.


    He was instrumental in the design criteria for sub hunting capability's when Canada procured the, then new Aurora, for anti-submarine hunting in the early 1980's.


    Terry has great stories to tell regarding sub hunting tactics as well as Canadian participation in NATO exercises


    As the podcast gets more popular our costs of hosting and running the podcast increase. If you are enjoying what you hear a few dollars, pounds or roubles a month help keep us on the air. Head over to our web site to learn more. Thank you so much to all our fans that are supporting us – it is really appreciated!


    Do take a look at Vintage Wings a collection of historically significant aircraft that Terry has worked on as well as the Royal Canadian Airforce Association of which Terry was a National President.


    Now back to today’s episode where we start with Terry telling us about his early career.



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    Cold War East German Army Officer at the Fall of the Berlin Wall (53) Mar 09, 2019

    In this episode we hear the third and final part of Torsten Belger’s story as he tells us about his first visit to West Berlin, leaving the East German Army and life after the GDR.


    Before we start a quick thanks to Skjip1969, Peteyinmontreal & GDR Objectified for leaving reviews in Itunes. Do leave reviews with your favourite podcast provider. It really helps us get new guests on the show.


    Thank you so much to all our fans that are supporting us – it is really appreciated!


    Just click here to help support the show


    Now back to today’s episode. We start with Torsten life in the immediate aftermath of the fall of the Berlin Wall.


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    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    László Nagy - A Cold War Hungarian Life (52) Mar 02, 2019

    László Nagy was one of the early members of the Hungarian Democratic Forum in 1987. The HDF became Hungary’s largest political party following first free elections in 1990.


    In this episode we hear the story of his parent’s life in 1950’s Hungary and László’s early life including how he ended up at school with the son of West Germany’s President.


    Before we start I’d like to ask you to by leaving a review in Itunes or with your favourite podcast provider. It really helps us get new guests on the show.


    If you’d like to assist us further with the costs of running the show, then click here to learn more. Thank you so much to all our fans that are supporting us – it is really appreciated!


    Now back to today’s episode. We start with László describing his father’s experiences at the end of World War 2.



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    The Cold War Blood Tattoo (51) Feb 27, 2019

    In 1951, a small pilot program was launched in Indiana and Utah as a civilian defense measure to aid in the aftermath of a nuclear attack.

    The idea was simple: If a bomb dropped, people would need medical attention.

    They would need a fast and accurate system to help administer blood transfusions. Blood type and Rh factor (a newly discovered slightly important detail in the world of blood transfusions) needed to be readily available to emergency personnel.

    You can lose a paper ID card. Dog tags can come off your neck. Limbs can easily get blown off. Blood typing needed a universal and permanent placement. They had just the ticket.

    A tattoo under the arm, on the rib cage, and children were the guinea pigs for this test program...


    Now regular listeners will know the drill, as this is the point ask you to help support us. As the podcast gets more popular our costs of hosting and running the podcast increase, so if you are enjoying what you hear a few dollars, pounds or roubles a month help keep us on the air. Click here to learn more. Thank you so much to all our fans that are supporting us – it is really appreciated!


    Now back to today’s episode where I introduce our two guests…


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    The Cold War Struggle for the Soul of Science - Freedom's Laboratory (50) Feb 23, 2019

    Audra J Wolfe is writer, editor, and historian based in Philadelphia. With a background in both science and history her work specifically focuses on the role of science during the Cold War, a period when science held a special place in maintaining and projecting state power.


    Now if you’d like to support us with a few dollars, pounds or roubles then click here to learn more. Thank you so much to all our fans that are supporting us – it is really appreciated!


    If that’s not your cup of tea then you can really help us by leaving reviews on Itunes or with your favourite podcast provider. This really helps raise our profile and get guests on the show.


    Now back to today’s episode where Audra and I met at Manchester University where she is currently on lecture tour.



    You can but Audra's book here.



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    An RAF pilot remembers the end of the Cold War (49) Feb 16, 2019

    In this episode we welcome back Nick Anderson who told us about his RAF service intercepting TU-95 Soviet Bear bombers over the North Sea.



    The story continues with his accounts of how the Soviet aircrew tried to distract RAF planes and how he was almost downed by their tactics.



    The episode ends with Nick telling us about the final days of the Cold War.



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    Gillian - A US Student visits Cold War Poland in 1989 (48) Feb 09, 2019

    In this episode we welcome back Gillian Cox who told us about her student trip to East Germany in 1989. In this episode the story continues with her trip further East into Poland.


    At this point Poland’s communist Polish United Workers Party had abandoned its monopoly of power in April. Elections in June 1989 resulted in the Free Trade Union Solidarity securing 35% of seats available to it with the remaining 65% was divided between the PZPR and its satellite parties


    The first round of voting took place on the same day that the Chinese communist government unleashed the Tiananmen Square massacre.


    We join my Cold War Conversation with Gillian Cox as she crosses the East German border into Poland.


    For more information visit our website and join the conversation on Facebook.


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    Red Reporter - Covert Correspondent for Cold War East Germany - Part 1 (47) Feb 02, 2019

    Today we speak to John Green.

    John Green grew up in Coventry in a communist family. After abandoning a zoology degree course after his second year at Bristol University, he switched to Drama.

    In 1964 he made the adventurous move to the German Democratic Republic to study film at the National Film School in Babelsberg, near Potsdam.

    He was the sole British student in the country. Returning to his native Britain in 1968, he became television correspondent for the GDR and spent 22 years reporting from around the world.

    Because the GDR, particularly at the height of the Cold War, was not officially recognised as an independent state, he and his colleagues were obliged to work anonymously and quasi-clandestinely in order to obtain the footage they needed.

    We start with John telling us about this early life in Coventry.


    Don't forget to check out our show notes here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode47/


    The second part of this interview is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode58/


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    The Berlin Trilogy - Author Interview (46) Jan 26, 2019

    Today we welcome author Paul Grant whose excellent Berlin trilogy is set in Berlin during World War 2 and the Cold War.



    Paul and I talk about the books as well as his inspiration and how he did his research to capture the atmosphere and detail of Cold War Berlin. We also discuss the GDR and visiting Berlin, so without further ado let’s join our Cold War Conversation with Paul Grant.


    Don't forget to check out the show notes here.


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    Cold War East German Army Officer at the 40th Anniversary Parade of East Germany (45) Jan 19, 2019

    In this episode, we welcome back Torsten Belger a former East German Officer.



    You can listen to other episodes with Torsten here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode39/ and here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode53/



    Torsten was part of the 40th Anniversary Parade of the GDR which unknown to him at the time would be its last. He tells of the training for the parade and his meeting with Yasser Arafat, the Head of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation.



    Torsten also shares how he heard about the unrest sweeping the country and his introduction to anti-riot training.



    The episode ends with Torsten telling about his gradual realisation that the country he had known his whole life was gradually falling apart.




    Before we start I’d like to thank all our Patreon who donate monthly to support the podcast further and get access to some exclusive extras. Monthly donations can be as small as $1 or a quid or a rouble and every donation helps keep us broadcasting and expanding the show. Just click here for more information.



    Now back to today’s episode. We start with Torsten telling us about the month leading up to the parade.



    We welcome back Torsten Belger




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    Cold War intercepts of Soviet Aircraft with the RAF (44) Jan 12, 2019

    Nick Anderson is a former RAF Phantom jet fighter pilot.



    We discuss flying in the Cold War and in detail how the RAF would have responded to a nuclear attack.



    We also talk about how QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) worked and hear details of a number of missions Nick flew intercepting the Soviet Tupolev Tu-95 codenamed "The Bear" by NATO.



    We welcome Nick Anderson



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    Cold War Conversations highlights of 2018 - a whistle stop tour (43) Jan 05, 2019

    Welcome to the Cold War Conversations History Podcast 2018 roundup and thank you to all our listeners and guests who’ve stuck with us and made the podcast what it is.


    If your old or new to the podcast I hope this episode will make you dip into episodes you might have missed or you thought are not your cup of tea..


    I’d like to especially thanks those listeners that have left such positive reviews on Itunes and have contributed financially via Patreon or as one off donations. If you haven’t left a review yet, just head over coldwarconversations.com and click on the “support the podcast” menu option.


    If you’d like to support us with a few quid, dollars, or roubles click on the support the podcast menu option as well at coldwarconversations.com.


    It’s been quite a year for me. I started this project in March 2018 and had no idea where it would go and have been astounded by the response and range of guests we have had on.



    I have been privileged to speak to the son of a former Soviet Premier, I’ve sat chatting over coffee in the kitchen of a former NVA officer in Liverpool, and boarded a Soviet submarine in Kent. Now that would make quite a bucket list on its own!


    Anyway you don’t want to listen to my ramblings, here’s the whistle stop tour of Cold War Conversations 2018 – enjoy!


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    Gillian - A US Student visiting Cold War East Germany (42) Dec 29, 2018

    Gillian Cox visited the GDR as a student in October 1989 just before the Wall came down.

    In this episode you will hear her eyewitness of account of what she saw in East Germany on the cusp of its destruction.


    We start with Gillian describing her interest in the Cold War and how she ended up in the GDR.

    We welcome Gillian Cox


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    Defending the Cold War Fulda Gap (41) Dec 22, 2018

    Today we talk again with Neil Gussman who was an M60A1 tank commander in West Germany tasked with defending the Fulda Gap which was a key likely Warsaw Pact attack route.



    We talk about his rushed initial deployment where he faced Warsaw Pact tanks across the border, details of various exercises he was in and how the US troops interacted with the West German population.



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    A British Journalist in Cold War East Berlin (40) Dec 15, 2018

    Shane Whaley from the GDR Radio Podcast and Spybrary podcast and I speak with Peter Millar. Peter is an award-winning journalist who was named Foreign Correspondent of the Year for his reporting on the dying days of the Cold War.



    Peter's book "The Berlin Wall: My Part in its Downfall" is described as "a witty, wry, elegiac account of his time as a Reuters and Sunday Times correspondent in Berlin throughout most of the 1980s' " by The Spectator and the Sunday Times described it as" part autobiography, part history primer and part Fleet Street gossip column ...



    Millar cast aside the old chestnuts and set about reporting on the reality of life under communism. In bare Stalinist apartments, at hollow party events and over cool glasses of Volker the gravedigger-cum-hippie, the Stasi seductress "Helga the Honeypot", Kurtl the accordion player whose father had been killed at Stalingrad, and the petty smuggler Manne who has been separated from his parents by the Wall ...

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Cold War East German Army Officer Training (39) Dec 08, 2018

    We speak with Torsten Belger who trained as an Artillery Officer in the East German Army.


    Torsten also runs Germandotmilitaria which is a web site selling various items of East German militaria and civilian items too. It's well worth a visit



    He tells us in fascinating detail about his early life, his schooling, and how he ended up on the NVA officer training course.



    You can listen to other episodes with Torsten here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode45/ and here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode53/


    Spoiler alert, this episode does end on a cliffhanger... we welcome Torsten Belger.

    Radio GDR

    If you are interested in East Germany we can highly recommend our friends over at Radio GDR.



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    Training to be a Cold War US Army Tank Commander (38) Dec 01, 2018

    Today we’re talking to Neil Gussman who trained on the M60A1 tank in the 1970s. This was the standard main battle tank of the US Army from the 1960s through to the 1980s.


    If you are enjoying the podcasts you can get exclusive extras including previews of future episodes, as well as content that didn’t make the final cut. Available for as little as a monthly donation of a euro, a dollar or a quid (larger amounts and other currencies are accepted too).


    Just head over to coldwarconversations.com and click on the “Support the podcast” menu option. Thank you very much to those listeners who are already supporting us.


    Back to today’s episode , Neil shares with us some great anecdotes about his training and the gunnery competitions as well as the change in US tank tactics as a result of the 1973 Arab Israeli War.


    We welcome Neil Gussman.


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    Antje - The Girl Behind The Berlin Wall (37) Nov 24, 2018

    Today we're talking to Antje Arnold, author of “The Girl Behind The Wall” which tells the story of a girl growing up in East Germany in the 1980s.

    Patreon is an easy way for you to support the podcast with a monthly donation of as little as a euro, a dollar or a quid (larger amounts and other currencies are accepted too, but no Ost Marks). I’d like to thank personally our latest supporters via Patreon. These are Dom Thorrington, Jakob Rud Bernhardt and Nick Packham who are are helping us monthly for as little as a euro, a dollar or a quid (larger amounts and other currencies are accepted too, but no Ost Marks). If you'd like to help keep us broadcasting and get some extras then just click here

    Back to today's episode. Antje's book is from a child’s point-of-view, rather than the typical espionage stories or documentaries that portray people trying to escape socialism.

    In our conversation you will not find historical data, but you'll travel back in time to relive the childhood memories alongside The Girl Behind the Wall.


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    Life in Cold War East Germany Photography Exhibition (36) Nov 18, 2018

    Today we visit the Totally East: Life in East Germany Photography Exhibition.



    Run-down façades, punks and ordinary workers: This exhibition shows the works of Harald Hauswald, who documented everyday life in the GDR.



    I walk through the exhibition with Dr Richard Millington who you will remember from our episode on the 1953 East German Uprising. Richard has brought the exhibition to Chester and as we walk round we discuss the photos and have a wide ranging conversation about life in East Germany.



    After our chat there’s some interviews with exhibition visitors who reminisce about the GDR and comment on the exhibition. We also chat with a couple of Cold War Conversations Podcast listeners who came along too.



    I hope you enjoy!


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    The man who owns a Cold War Soviet submarine (35) Nov 10, 2018

    We talk with John Sutton who owns a Foxtrot class Soviet Submarine moored in the middle of the River Medway in Kent.

    This may seem an unlikely location for a Soviet submarine but John tells an interesting story of how he acquired it.


    Before we go further I’d like to thank all our Patreons who donate monthly to support the podcast further and get access to some exclusive extras. Now you might wonder what this Patreon stuff is I go on about - in short it's a way of you can help fund further podcasts. All I'm asking is if you enjoy the podcast to agree to pay as much as you can afford each month. You can cancel at any time and amounts as little as little as a $1 or a £1 a month really help keep us broadcasting and expanding the show.


    Just click here to visit our Patreon page.


    So back to the episode, after viewing some of the photos of the sub listing in the river, with some trepidation I boarded a fast Javelin train at London St Pancras and within 30 minutes I was in Strood and I could see across the Medway the low silhouette of the Foxtrot.


    We join the interview with John and I aboard his small launch in the middle of the River Medway.


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    Samy - Life as a West Berliner in Cold War Berlin (34) Nov 03, 2018

    Today we talk with Samy who as a native West Berliner describes growing up in the city during the 1970s and 80s.


    He describes in detail the difference between West Berlin and West Germany, including its position as a “special political entity”, how the death penalty in West Berlin was only abolished in 1989 and how as a child he was obsessed with Spy movies, spy books, and Cold War activities.


    Samy also talks about the battle between the East and West German Sandmännchen resulting in victory for the East.


    Samy joined the Red Cross post Cold War but discovered some interesting remnants of preparedness in case of another Berlin blockade including some top secret locations.


    There's loads of extra content available in our show notes at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode34/


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    Eileen - A British teacher living & working in Cold War East Berlin Oct 26, 2018

    Eileen shares some great information with us of working & living in East Berlin, with some surprising details.


    She also generously reveals details about the contents of her Stasi file.


    It’s a fascinating story that includes Eileen's escape from the Volkspolizei following a Billy Bragg gig in East Berlin. We welcome again Eileen Ford-Price.


    Further show notes are available at https://coldwarconversations.com/episode33/


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    Eileen - A British student living in Cold War East Germany (32) Oct 20, 2018

    Today we speak with Eileen Ford-Price who was British student in the GDR in the 1980s in Rostock.

    Before we start I’d like to thank all our Patreon who donate monthly to support the podcast further and get access to some exclusive extras. Monthly donations can be as small as $1 or a quid and every donation helps keep us broadcasting and expending the show.

    Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate

    Now back to today’s episode.

    Eileen shares some great details with us including her reasons for being a student in the GDR. Her first journey across the border and what life was like in 1980s Rostock as a foreign student.

    It’s a fascinating story that includes the Stasis’s attempt to recruit her as an informer on her fellow students.

    We welcome Eileen Ford-Price


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    The Korean War in Britain (31) Oct 12, 2018

    We speak with Doctor Grace Huxford, author of the Korean War in Britain – Citizenship, Selfhood and Forgetting.

    The Korean War was known as the “forgotten war”, but it is key in understanding the early Cold War tensions and later repercussions that continue through to today.

    The equipment used in today’s episode has kindly been provided by our supporters who make monthly donations via Patreon – a special thanks to all of them.

    If you would like to support the podcast further and get access to some exclusive extras click here.

    Now back to today’s episode.

    The subjects we cover include the social impact of the Korean War within Britain, the UK view of the war, prisoners of war and brainwashing as well as protests against the war.

    We welcome Dr Grace Huxford.


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    Leaving your family to go off to a nuclear war (30) Oct 06, 2018

    Dave Arnold was the Chief Observer at a Royal Observer Corps nuclear monitoring post.


    I made a fascinating visit with Dave to the Rushton Spencer Royal Observer Corps nuclear monitoring post in Staffordshire in the UK.


    My instructions were to meet in the Royal Oak pub car park where I would be escorted to the post…right on 11am David appeared and guided me up various little used country lanes into the hills above Rushton Spencer and onto a rutted track.

    We climbed further until a small well kept compound appeared over a ridge. Welcome to the Rushton Spencer Royal Observer Corps post…


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    Cold War Living History Event - The Soviet Threat (29) Sep 29, 2018

    This episode takes place at a Living History event in and around the Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker museum in deepest Cheshire in the UK. I can heartily recommend visiting the Hack Green Bunker and we are planning an audio tour of the bunker as a future episode.


    The event was patrolled by various re-enactors and checkpointshad to be passed as visitors are invited to venture between the two sides of the Cold War.


    A large contingent from the South Staff Living History Group were there, mainly DDR themed., however, many areas were covered including RAF Moleworth Cruise Missile base, French Foreign Legion, The Royal Observer Corps, US Army Europe, 1st Gulf War, Soviet, Bundeswehr, BAOR, Polish, Czech and the Malayan Emergency.


    What particularly delighted me was the number of younger people who have gained an interest in the Cold War and are part of the re-enactment community.


    We join the episode shortly after I have passed the DDR checkpoint and I chat with the two DDR border guards who are now in a more amiable mood…


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    Cold War USAF pilot Buz Carpenter talks Vietnam recon, Skunkworks and more Sep 21, 2018

    USAF pilot Buz Carpenter talks about about flying reconnaissance over Vietnam, the Skunkworks where secret USAF projects were developed, his time commanding Ramstein airbase at the end of the Cold War and more.


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    Flying the Cold War Blackbird SR71 Spyplane (27) Sep 15, 2018

    Today we are talking about the SR71 Blackbird spy plane. Only 32 Blackbirds were ever made, and they were in service from 1964-1998. The great defensive ability of the plane was its high speed and altitude. Standard evasive action was just to accelerate, which made it almost invulnerable to the attack technologies of the time.

    The top speed of the plane was mach 3.3 (2,200 miles/hour that’s 36 miles/minute).


    Thanks to all those who are supporting the podcast with monthly pledges and donations. It is much appreciated and will allow us to expand the scope of the podcast. If you would like to support the podcast further and get access to some exclusive extras go to our website at coldwarconversations.com and click on the “support the Podcast” menu option.


    Back to todays episode…our guest knows a bit about the SR71…Buz Carpenter accrued 777 hours flying SR-71 planes. He flew Blackbirds as an aircraft commander and later as an instructor pilot, with over 60 operational missions. He also flew in the C-141, RF-4C, and T-38 planes, flying 150 combat hours in Vietnam.


    He worked in the Pentagon and served as Wing commander at Ramstein Air Base in German during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He retired as a Colonel after serving as the 2nd Air Force Vice Commander, responsible for all the USAF Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance flying assets.


    He is currently a docent for the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum, Udvar Hazy Center. We welcome Buz Carpenter


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    My father was the leader of the Soviet Union - Part 2 (26) Sep 07, 2018

    This is part 2 of my conversation with Professor Sergei Khrushchev the son of Nikita Khrushchev who led the Soviet Union 1953 to 1964.

    Before we start I would again like to thank all those who are supporting the podcast with monthly pledges and donations.

    If you would like to support the podcast further and get access to some exclusive extras go to our website at coldwarconversations.com/donate

    In part 2 of this interview, we gain insight into Soviet thinking around the Cuban Missile Crisis, we hear about the Soviet view of the building of the Berlin Wall along with the 1961 Berlin Crisis and his father’s fall from power.


    If you missed part 1 you can find it here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode25/


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    My father was the leader of the Soviet Union - Part 1 (25) Sep 02, 2018

    In part 1 of this interview we talk about Professor Khrushchev’s early years, his relationship with his father, his father’s rise to power, the 1956 Hungarian Uprising as well the first international visits accompanying his father to the UK, East Germany and the USA.

    Part 2 is here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode26/


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    Cold War West German Nuclear Monitoring System (24) Aug 25, 2018

    West Germany had a number of Nuclear Warning Bunkers dotted around the country similar to the Royal Observer Corps in the UK.

    Mirko Krumm describes the organisation West German Civil Defence and the preservation of his bunker near Bremen.


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    Gary Powers & the 1960 U2 Incident Aug 18, 2018

    Powers' U-2 was shot down on May 1, 1960, as he flew over Soviet airspace, and after parachuting out of the plane he was captured and convicted of espionage.

    He was sentenced to 10 years in prison but was freed on Feb. 10, 1962, in exchange for Soviet spy Rudolf Abel.

    The incident and exchange was detailed on the Steven Spielberg film “Bridge of Spies”.


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    The Trabant car - East German icon (22) Aug 11, 2018

    We’re talking about East German cars with Alex Goffe and Mark Mullarkey of the UK-based Wartburg Trabant IFA Club.

    Now I don’t think Top Gear or Jeremy Clarkson, etc. have anything to worry about, but I hope you enjoy our chat and ride through the Staffordshire countryside in Alex’s Trabi…


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    BRIXMIS, the defence of Cold War Berlin & Rudolf Hess (21) Aug 06, 2018

    Welcome to Episode 21 of Cold War Conversations.


    Now I am very excited by today’s guest and we have a packed episode for you. Nigel Dunkley MBE is a former Royal Scots Dragoon Guard who served in Berlin with a squadron of Chieftain tanks tasked with defending the British Sector including the Brandenburg Gate should the Cold War have turned hot.


    Nigel also performed intelligence gathering duties in the former East Germany with BRIXMIS which was an intelligence organisation worked throughout the Cold War years from 1946 to 1990 gathering intelligence in the former Soviet Occupation Zone of East Germany on the threat posed to the West and NATO by the 20 Soviet and 6 East German Army Divisions and their Air Forces deployed there.


    In the 1980s Nigel also interpreted for Hitler’s Deputy Rudolf Hess in Spandau Prison, Berlin and provided some fascinating insight into the character of Hess.


    Later in his military career he was awarded the MBE and Bronze Star Medal for his services with the US 1st Cavalry Division during Operation Desert Storm. Nigel was also Chief of Staff at the Royal Armoured Corp Centre at Bovington, ending his army career as Defence Attache at the British Embassy in Berlin.


    I am delighted and honoured to welcome Nigel Dunkley.



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    Anke - Life as an East German teenager (20) Jul 29, 2018

    Today we're talking to Anke Holst was born in the GDR during the 1970s in Rostock.

    Anke has returned to Rostock after many years abroad and now provides tours of GDR sites in Rostock.

    Our conversation highlights how different life was in the provinces of the GDR as opposed to Berlin.

    In a wide ranging, frank and honest discussion we talk about her family life with her mother who was a stalwart Party member, Anke's school class role as "Agitator", her training in Marxist-Leninism, and her weapons training in the Ernst Thälmann Pioneer Organisation in Rostock.


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    19 - Able Archer and the Cold War nuclear war scare of 1983 Jul 21, 2018

    Today we're talking to Francesca Akhtar who holds a BA Hons in American Studies with 1st class honours from Canterbury Christ Christ Church University in Kent, and a Masters degree in US history & Politics from the Institute of the Americas, University College London.

    Her main research interests are US Cold War foreign policy, intelligence history and defence. Francesca has written a dissertation entitled “The most dangerous Soviet-American confrontation since the Cuban Missile Crisis?” An analysis of the origins, nature and impact of the Able Archer 83 incident .

    I am delighted to welcome Francesca Akhtar to Cold War Conversations.


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    RAF Greenham Common - A history of the iconic Cold War British nuclear base.(18) Jul 14, 2018

    The airfield is probably best known, certainly in the UK, for the controversial deployment of Ground Launched Cruise Missiles in the 1980s and the resulting Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp outside its gates.

    Today’s guest is is a graduate in international relations, the author of “In Defence of Freedom; a History of RAF Greenham Common” and is also a Director of Greenham Control Tower Ltd.

    I am delighted to welcome Jonathan Sayers.


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    Eyewitness to the Prague Spring Jul 07, 2018

    In 1968 today’s guest was 15 year old at the same school in Prague as Czech communist leader Alexander Dubček’s son.

    Jan Čulík provides a valuable eyewitness account of the heady days of the Prague Spring and the subsequent Warsaw Pact invasion. He provides some insightful views that I found challenged my understanding of the Prague Spring.

    He details the situation in Czechoslovakia in the late 1960s, the Prague Spring, his experiences as the reformers were suppressed to the late 1970s and his arrest by the STB, the Czech secret police.

    The interview starts as we talk about the level of censorship in Czechoslovakia before the Prague Spring.


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    Mark - A US Combat Engineer in Cold War West Germany (16) Jun 30, 2018

    Today we’re talking to Mark Valley, host of the Livedrop espionage podcast.


    Mark served with the US army as a combat engineer in West Germany and later with the Berlin Brigade.


    His story gives you an eyewitness account of service in both locations, but also gives some insight into the training, tactics and dilemmas of service in the army.


    I am delighted and honoured to welcome Mark Valley.


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    15 - Sabine - An East German Childhood Jun 23, 2018

    Today we speak to Sabine who was 13 when the Wall opened.

    We hear about her childhood in East Germany and gain great insight into life at the time, the pressures on her family and her first steps into West Berlin.

    I found Sabine’s story very personal and moving detailing her experiences as her country disappeared almost overnight casting her family into an uncertain future as the safety net they were used too disappeared with it.

    I am delighted to welcome Sabine to Cold War Conversations.


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    14 - The Prague Spring Jun 16, 2018

    In today’s episode we return to Czechoslovakia and one of the most iconic moments of the Cold War – The Prague Spring of 1968.

    We have with us Lani Seelinger of Socialism Realised which an excellent website and learning environment that uses multimedia content as teaching aids about the communist regimes in Europe. I do recommend you check them out at Socialismrealised.eu

    Some of you will have seen the film of Alexander Dubcek and the adoring crowds as well as the powerful images of the Warsaw Pact invasion. Our chat shows that beneath those images there’s more nuances and I hope you find the episode insightful and entertaining.

    I am delighted to welcome Lani Seelinger.


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    A US soldier at Checkpoint Charlie when the Berlin Wall opened (13) Jun 09, 2018

    Michael Rafferty was posted to Berlin in 1988. He served in the 287th Military Police Company at Checkpoint Charlie and was there through to the historic opening of the Berlin Wall qne the removal of the checkpoint in 1990.

    I have always been intrigued by a video posted in Youtube filmed in the 1980s by a then young US army soldier documenting his first days in Berlin for his family back at home.

    Now I never dreamed that I would find, let alone talk to that soldier, but through the magic of the internet we got in contact and Michael Rafferty agreed to give his first interview in 24 years to Cold War Conversations.

    His story spans the last days of Checkpoint Charlie, from when the border was the heavily fortified barrier familiar to us from those spy films to the opening of the wall and the unification of Germany.

    I am delighted and honoured to welcome Michael Rafferty.


    Episode notes here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode13/


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    12 - My Stasi file is as thick as a phone book Jun 02, 2018

    We’re chatting with Mark Reeder a musician and music producer who has been involved in the Berlin and international music scene since 1978, starting as Factory Records German representative from 1978-1983.

    Through contacts in the GDR he put on several secret punk gigs behind the Iron Curtain and his Stasi file is described as “as thick as a phone book”. He is however, denied access to the full file as it remains in the possession of the German Federal Intelligence Service...

    He is also the founder and owner of the first East German electronic dance music label Masterminded For Success “MFS” which he started in 1990, after being the only and last Westerner to make an album in communist East Germany which was “Torture” by Die Vision in 1989.

    His is a very interesting and unusual account with some great stories including how he smuggled a Volksarmee uniform across the Berlin Wall and the unusual currency needed to get your phone fixed.


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    Observing Cold War Armageddon (11) May 26, 2018

    Today we’re covering a British Cold War civil defence unit called the Royal Observer Corps.

    We’re talking to Alistair McCann who has preserved a Royal Observer Corps monitoring post as a museum in Northern Ireland.

    We talk about the museum, the difficulties of the Northern Ireland Royal Observer Corps during “The Troubles” and what the reality would have been for these men and women should the Cold War have turned hot.

    I hope you find our conversation as interesting as I did. We welcome Alistair McCann.


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    1960s Road Trip Across the Soviet Union (10) May 18, 2018

    Jeremy Poynton was a 16 year old school boy in 1968 when he embarked on a memorable trip by road from Leningrad to Odessa.

    He vividly describes a Soviet Union still struggling with poverty and a diverse range of peoples from city dwellers to remote Chechen villagers.

    It’s a unique story as Jeremy details his experiences and the sights of a 1960s Soviet Union just as the Prague Spring was being suppressed.

    I hope you enjoy our chat as much as I did, we welcome Jeremy Poynton.


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    Cloak & Dagger in Cold War Prague (9) May 12, 2018

    Mark Baker is an independent journalist and travel writer who’s lived in Central Europe for more than two decades.

    I heartily recommend his travel website www.markbakerprague.com which is an eclectic mix of stories about his adopted hometown of Prague and stories from when Central Europe was the “Eastern bloc” and he was a full-time journalist trying his best to cover it.

    Mark tells an intriguing and compelling story and I urge you to listen right to the end. I hope you enjoy our chat and I welcome Mark Baker. (the drawing is by Stewart K Moore and is a representation of Mark’s Czechoslovak fixer during the 1980s)


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    8 - Warsaw Pact Armoured Fighting Vehicles May 07, 2018

    Welcome to Episode 8 of Cold War Conversations where we talk about the armoured fighting vehicles of the Warsaw Pact.

    Russell Phillips has written several books on Warsaw Pact military equipment and our conversation is an interesting exchange covering the evolution in design, tactics and the deployment of Warsaw Pact armoured forces should the Cold War have turned hot.

    It also covers a slightly off topic conversation about saunas and swimming pools in Soviet submarines and Frankie Goes to Hollywood!


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    7 - Interview with Stasi Child author - David Young May 05, 2018

    We speak with David Young who has written the Stasi Child - Karin Müller series of crime thrillers set in East Germany in the mid 1970s.


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    The 1953 Cold War East German Uprising with Dr Richard Millington (6) Apr 28, 2018

    We talk about the relatively little known Uprising of 1953 in East Germany.

    A lot of focus justifiably is on the fall of the Berlin Wall, but it can be argued that the Uprising of 1953 sowed the seeds for the eventual demise of the GDR.We chat with Dr Richard Millington who has studied the Uprising and shares with us some fascinating research including eyewitness accounts and details from the Stasi files of the period.


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    5 - Espionage, East Germany and Berlin with Spybrary host Shane Whaley - Part 2 Apr 20, 2018

    Welcome to episode 5 which is part 2 of our Cold War Conversation with Shane Whaley of Spybrary .

    Show notes at coldwarconversations.com/episode5/

    We talked for some time ,so I have split this interview into two parts.

    I hope you find this second half as interesting as I did – settle in for a wide ranging and hopefully interesting conversation with my good friend Shane Whaley.


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    Espionage, East Germany and Berlin with Spybrary host Shane Whaley - Part 1 (4) Apr 18, 2018

    Welcome to episode 4 (part 1) of Cold War Conversations. Today we’re talking about Cold War espionage, East Germany and Berlin with Spybrary host, Shane Whaley.

    Shane runs the Spybrary podcast at spybrary.com. Their goal is to encourage people to read new spy novels, revisit an old espionage classic and discuss them with our community of like minded spy fans. It’s great fun if you like spy books I highly recommend his podcast.

    Settle in for a wide ranging and hopefully interesting conversation with my good friend Shane Whaley.

    We could have gone on for hours and indeed we did, so I have split this interview into two parts


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    The Strange World of East German Football (3) Apr 07, 2018

    Welcome to Episode 3 of Cold War Conversations where we hear about the strange world of football in East Germany and even if you are not interested in football it’s a fascinating chat.


    Craig McCracken runs the website, Beyondthelastman.com, described as 20th century football writing and nostalgia in a skilled and cultured groove.


    One of his areas of interest is football in the GDR and from our conversation you’ll realise he is a fount of knowledge from BSG Rotation Babelsberg to FC Hansa Rostock and all stops between.


    We talk about the nefarious activities of Stasi Chief Erich Mielke and his favourite team, and we cover the only competitive game where the GDR played West Germany in the 1974 World Cup. Craig also describes a Stasi chase through the bazaars of Istanbul to stop player defections and a suspicious death of a former GDR player in West Germany.


    Show notes are on this link




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    Berlin during the 1960s and 70s and Signals Intelligence (2) Apr 01, 2018

    Welcome to the first full episode of Cold War Conversations where we start with a fascinating eyewitness account of Berlin during the Cold War.


    Michael lived in Berlin as a child of US Airforce personnel in the 1960s and 70s and then subsequently joined the US Airforce himself and worked in Signals Intelligence during the 1980s.


    In a wide-ranging chat, we talked about life for American families and their kids in Berlin during the 1960s and 70s as well as his time in signals intelligence in Berlin in the 1980s. We also talked about the Stasi spy in Michael’s unit, Kennedy’s visit to Berlin, Baader Meinhof attacks on US Forces, and much more.


    Our guest’s unit was described by the Commander in Chief US Airforce Europe as “his eyes and ears to the East.”

    See the show notes with lots of extra information at coldwarconversations.com

    The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a 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 monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.

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    Cold War Conversations trailer Mar 24, 2018

    Experience the Cold War through the voices of the people who were there.


    From soldiers to spies and civilians there are hundreds of unique stories told with humour, sadness, and all the emotions in between.


    Listen at coldwarconversations.com or search Cold War Conversations in your podcast app.


    Cold War Conversations is a unique award-winning project dedicated to creating an archive of first-hand accounts of the Cold War. Many of our stories have never been heard before.



    Visit our website here for further information. https://coldwarconversations.com/


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