Episodes
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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/
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
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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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/
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
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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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/
Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/
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Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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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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/
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 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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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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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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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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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
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
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 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/
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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Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
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Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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, 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.
Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations
Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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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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.
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
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
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Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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 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.
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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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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 [email protected]
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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Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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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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 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? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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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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 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? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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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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 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? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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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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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 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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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations
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
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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 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
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations
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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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 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
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
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Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations
Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod
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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