I Spied

Latest Episodes:

BITE SIZE: Above The Law Jun 23, 2022

Show notes

A bite-size episode to answer a question from a listener: Are spies criminally liable? We explore the legal and not-so legal aspects of an intelligence officer's life on the edge of the law, find out just what, why and how a spy can get away with dastardly deeds, and exactly which legislation they'll need to know to get out of trouble.

Better bring a lawyer, Bond. Better bring a real good one!

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The Trumpster Fire Jun 19, 2022

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Just in time for the 50th anniversary of the Watergate hearings, the US Congress has started their prime time hearings into the January 6 insurrection. What are the parallels between this hearing and the one into Nixon's White House? What does it mean for the future of US politics and the GOP? And will the Don and his cronies ever face any real consequences? Keep your lawyer on speed dial for this weeks ep!

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The Sky Road to China Jun 12, 2022

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Just last week, everything seemed to be on the up-and-up with China, until it was revealed that some sky-hi-jinks between an RAAF surveillance flight and a PLAAF fighter nearly brought the whole thing undone. So what really happened? What is China up to? And just why was an Australian Air Force plane flying around the Sth China Sea anyway? And just when is an island not an island? Make sure your tray table is secured for this one!

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Everything Goes Wong Jun 05, 2022

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With the new Australian government out of the blocks with a flying start, we look at what an Albanese administration means for our intelligence community. What changes have already taken place? Who are the new ministers responsible for national security? When, if ever, will Penny Wong see her family again? And just what was going on with the Chinese spy ship off WA during the election that got Peter Dutton so hot under the collar? And remember: the more things change...

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Lock and unload May 29, 2022

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With the US reeling from yet another school shooting, this week we look at the relationship between the Australian intelligence community and firearms. Which of our spies are armed, when can they carry a gun and what are the regulations around going locked and loaded into the field? And how does American gun culture affect the US intelligence experience? Keep your pistol in your pocket and leave your safety on, people!

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Gladio to See You May 22, 2022

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Now the election is over, it's time to get back to the real world of intelligence, and what better way than to dive into the greatest black op/conspiracy nursery in intelligence history. Operation Gladio started as an idea to fight off a possible Soviet invasion of Europe, but became a sinister web of intrigue that spanned the globe and decades, involving the CIA, the drug trade, the Mafia, the Masons, the Vatican and at least one dead Pope. When we say the intelligence game isn't anything like the movies, Operation Gladio is the exception that defies the rule. Have your secret hand shake ready!

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In Liu of Payment May 15, 2022

Show notes

With the election drawing to a close, China is rearing its substantial head yet again and just in time for us to look at both sides of the Sino-intelligence coin. From a possible PRC parliamentary plant in the LNP's Gladys Liu, to the potential growth in Australia's Chinese informants in Beijing, we look at how Australia is playing the spy game both in and outside the country. And just what does ASIS spy chief Paul Symon enjoy with his schnitty at lunch?
Don't forget to tip your wait staff!

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Russian To Judgement May 08, 2022

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With the war in Ukraine dragging and the world still trying to grasp how it all went so wrong for Vladimir Putin, we have a look at how the very structure of the Russian military may be the problem. From the doctrine of no limits adopted from the Russian Mafia, to a conscripted army with no NCOs to guide them, to brutal hazing straight out of the gulags, could it be that the Russian bear isn't the rampaging beast we were lead to believe? And talking of beasts, are militaries around the world seriously weaponising sea life?
Join us for a truly deep dive!
(The producers of I Spied want assure the listener that no cetaceans were harmed in the making of this podcast)

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Ping: Solomons Mine! May 01, 2022

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We're back! And what a time to return, with the federal election being thrown into chaos with a genuine national security crisis!
What is really happening in the Solomons? How did the government drop the ball and are our intelligence services to blame? What does this growing Chinese influence in Australia's back yard mean for us? And just what game is Xi playing now?
This little trip to the Pacific ain't gonna be no island holiday!

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The Frenemy Within Apr 03, 2022

Show notes

With Vladimir Putin placing members of his intelligence service under house arrest, we look at the critical and often misunderstood relationship between governments and the intelligence community that advises them. How much control does a government need to have over its spies? Is too much control a bad thing? And should you start worrying if Putin sends you a hot tub to install in your third floor bathroom. Join us as we try to thin several thickening plots.

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