Cold War Conversations

This is the 2nd part of the story of Miles, a British National Service conscript during his military service in the late 1950s. I’d like to give special thanks for the Norfolk Tank Museum for highlighting Miles’ story and one of his relatives for putting me in contact with him. Throughout the episode, our Miles shares captivating anecdotes and the thrill of being part of a light armoured reconnaissance regiment. He vividly recounts the challenges of operating various armoured vehicles, including the Saladin and Saracen, and the responsibilities that came with being on the front lines of military operations. One of the most intriguing aspects of his service was the border patrols, where he and his comrades would venture into the woods, often encountering their East German counterparts. The tension of those moments, coupled with the knowledge that they were living in a semi-war footing, adds a layer of gravity to his experiences. ⁠Help me preserve Cold War history. ⁠⁠ You’ll become part of our community,

We hear the fascinating story of Miles, a British National Service conscript during his military service in the late 1950s. I’d like to give special thanks for the Norfolk Tank Museum for highlighting Miles’ story and one of his relatives for putting me in contact with him. Miles shares vivid memories of receiving his call-up papers, the initial medical examination, and the challenges of basic training at Catterick Camp. From the camaraderie formed among recruits to the rigours of physical training and the often humorous anecdotes of army life, this episode offers a unique glimpse into the last days of British conscription. Help me 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 Berlin Blockade was one of the first major international crises of the Cold War when the Soviet Union blocked the Western Allies' railway, road, and canal access to the sectors of Berlin under Western control. I speak with Joseph Pearson, the author of “The Airlift Victories, Myths, and the Berlin Blockade. This is not your standard military history. Drawing on first-hand interviews and untapped sources from both German and Anglo-American archives, Pearson interweaves personal tales into an extraordinary story: an American pilot crashing in Soviet territory; a Jewish photographer struggling to reconcile with the Germans; the 17,000 women who built Tegel Airport; Cambridge University actors performing in the ruins for British intelligence and Hollywood star Montgomery Clift filming at Tempelhof Airport. Through this deeply human lens, Pearson offers crucial historical insight into how lasting new battlelines were formed. The Berlin Airlift didn’t just supply a city; it wrote the playbook of the Cold

This is the largely untold story of Task Force Faith, the U.S. Army soldiers who although outnumbered 8-1 by Chinese troops fought valiantly during the Battle of Chosin Reservoir in the Korean War. Author Steve Fogel has written a new book called A Task Force Called Faith - The Untold Story of the U.S. Army Soldiers Who Fought for Survival at Chosin Reservoir and Honor Back Home We discuss the dramatic events that unfolded on the eastern side of Chosin, contrasting the well-documented Marine narrative with the harrowing experiences of the Army unit. Discover the heroism, tragedy, and the long-overdue recognition these soldiers deserve as we delve into this compelling chapter of Cold War military history. UK Listeners buy the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781493092895 US listeners but the book here https://bookshop.org/a/92195/9781493092895 Episode extras here ⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/episode431/⁠⁠ Related episodes: Korea: War WIthout End https://coldwarconversations.com/e

Bill Hodes was an American school child in 1950s Revolutionary China and this is the second part of his story. Among many stories we hear how he had the unique opportunity to meet one of China's most revered leaders, Zhou Enlai, the first Premier of the People's Republic of China and how he played softball with US and British POWs from the Korea War who had refused to return home. Bill reflects on the challenges he faced, including moments of cultural misunderstanding and the playful jabs from classmates who labelled him an "American imperialist." These interactions highlight the complexities of identity and belonging in a rapidly changing world. The narrative takes a poignant turn as he recounts his involvement in the Mississippi Freedom Summer, a significant civil rights initiative aimed at combating racial injustice. Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode430/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Hodes was a red diaper baby, a baby born to Communist parents. Bill shares stories about his parents, Bob and Jane Hodes, both convinced communists who were active in civil rights movements during the McCarthy period. He recounts their life in New Orleans, his father's groundbreaking research in neurophysiology, and the family's eventual move to China amidst political turmoil. Discover how Bill navigated this unique upbringing, filled with significant historical events, and the cultural experiences in China that shaped his identity. Episode extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode429/ Related episodes: The China civil war and the independence of Taiwan 1949 https://coldwarconversations.com/episode165/ Part two of  Bill Hodes interview https://coldwarconversations.com/episode430/ 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

Ned Richardson- Little has written a new book titled The German Democratic Republic: The Rise and Fall of a Cold War State. It offers a differentiated picture of the communist state with a sophisticated analysis of life under dictatorship which candidly confronts the abuses of the East German Communist Party and the Stasi. The GDR was also entangled in international politics well beyond the rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. Ned offers a history of the GDR in a global perspective that illustrates the worldview of those who ruled it, those who rebelled against the strictures of state socialism, and those in between who sought a normal life under dictatorship. Buy the book & support the podcast here: UK listeners https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9781350341517 US listeners https://bookshop.org/a/92195/9781350341517 Episode extras including videos here ⁠⁠⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/episode428 The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation

I continue chatting with Dennis Greene about his incredible journey from a challenging childhood in segregated Savannah, Georgia to a distinguished military career. Dennis is made Senior Flight Commander responsible for 50 Minuteman nuclear missiles. Dennis shares his firsthand experiences of the intense pressure, the psychological toll of nuclear readiness, and the groundbreaking integration of women into the Minuteman 2 system. He recounts pivotal moments, from the deactivation of nuclear warheads following the signing of the START1 disarmament treaty to the unique interactions with Soviet counterparts during verification processes. Episode extras including videos here ⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/episode427/⁠ 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

I am trying to win an award for Cold War Conversations in the Discover Pods Awards for best history podcast 2025 and I need your nomination to get me into the finals. All I need you to do is to nominate Cold War Conversations in the history category using this  link.  https://discoverpods.com/2025-podcast-awards/ Podcast Name: Cold War Conversations Podcast Website coldwarconversations.com Podcast Category: History With all your help we can hopefully make it to the finals and I will be in contact again for the final vote! Thanks for listening and your amazing comments and support. You’ll find the nominations link here  https://discoverpods.com/2025-podcast-awards/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dennis Greene, is a former Air Force officer, who shares his incredible journey from a challenging childhood in segregated Savannah, Georgia to a distinguished military career. He reflects on his early inspirations, the realities of growing up in a segregated South, and the lessons learned throughout his US military service. Dennis discusses the significance of teamwork, overcoming adversity, and the pivotal moments that shaped his life, including his experiences in boot camp, missile training, and the complexities of race within the US military. Episode extras including videos here ⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/episode426/⁠ 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

Oleg Lyalin, was a KGB officer whose actions would provide British intelligence with pivotal information during the Cold War. I speak with Richard Kerbaj,  the author of a new book, 'The Defector,' which chronicles Lyalin's story.   Lyalin ​was trained ​with ​The KGB’s Department ​V, which ​was their sabotage ​and ​​assassinations ​department.  He was sent to the UK under the guise of a trade official, where he was tasked with gathering intelligence and plotting assassinations of  ​British politicians, ​paralysing the ​British ​economy and ways ​to ​starve ​the ​population ​by ​attacking ​emergency food ​supplies. ​ In early 1971, overwhelmed by personal and professional turmoil, Lyalin approached MI5, revealing his true identity and the KGB's sinister plans against the UK. Episode extras including related episodes & videos here ⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/episode425/⁠ The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and via a simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continu

Author Tom Hapgood is a US military BRAT  aka the child of a parent or parents serving full-time in the United States Armed Forces. He talks about his 5 years in West Germany during the Cold War. He shares the challenges of moving every few years, adapting to new cultures, and the rich tapestry of friendships formed along the way. The term "BRAT" often carries a negative connotation, but Tom sheds light on its origins, suggesting a more nuanced history tied to military families. The stories shared reveal how these children navigated their identities as they lived in foreign lands. We reflect on the Cold War's influence and  tensions, yet amidst the challenges, there were countless adventures and opportunities for cultural exchange that enriched their lives. From navigating new cities to forming lifelong friendships, the life of a military BRAT is filled with unique experiences that shape who they become. This episode not only details those experiences but also invites listeners to reflect on their own chil

The incredible story of the five most damaging spies in British history, from their recruitment at Cambridge University to their infiltration of the government and the security services, all while successfully eluding prosecution. I speak with Shawnna Morris the author of a new book The Cambridge Spy Ring: The Treachery of the Five Who Got Away. We explore the backgrounds, motivations, and the intricate web of espionage that defined the lives of Kim Philby, Donald McLean, John Cairncross, Guy Burgess, and Anthony Blunt.  The Cambridge Five's legacy is one of betrayal, loyalty, and moral ambiguity. Their actions had far-reaching consequences, not only for themselves but for the intelligence community and the political landscape of the time. Episode extra including video interviews of the Cambridge Five here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode423/ Book Giveaway entry (until 4th Oct 2025) https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway1/ Related episodes Guy Burgess and the Cambridge Spy Ring https:

Fraser McCallum is the author of a new book Cold War Britain: Fifty years in the shadow of the bomb which gives a fascinating insight into a period that shaped the fabric of British society. The Cold War defined the history of Britain in the second half of the twentieth century as much as it did that of the US and the Soviet Union. Cold War Britain is an exploration into the multifaceted dimensions of Britain’s experience during the Cold War era. By weaving together history, politics, literature, and popular culture, this book invites readers to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Cold War Britain, offering fresh insights and perspectives into how this global conflict shaped the fabric of British society. Buy the book here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9780008743994 Fraser’s Cold War Playlist Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/cold-war-britain-the-soundtrack-to-the-book/pl.u-NRp7s3pq7o Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2lZ7HBrKKyBj31wXKXx2nq?si=m2U2HNafQ7O13d3NlYHbYw&p

On November 24, 1971, a man using the alias Dan Cooper hijacked a Northwest Airlines flight, demanding a ransom of $200,000 and four parachutes. What followed was a daring escape that has left investigators and enthusiasts puzzled for over five decades. I sit down with Pat Boland, a true crime aficionado and expert on the D.B. Cooper case. Boland shares her deep dive into the many theories surrounding this infamous hijacking, which remains the only unsolved case of its kind in U.S. history. She recounts the events of that fateful day, painting a vivid picture of Cooper's calm demeanour and meticulous planning. Throughout the episode, Boland also delves into the forensic evidence—or lack thereof—that has hampered the investigation. From the infamous black tie Cooper left behind to the money discovered years later by a boy on the Columbia River, the clues are tantalizing yet frustratingly inconclusive. Want to learn more? Pat Boland Blog Pat Boland on Twitter DB Cooper Facebook Group Episode extras ⁠ ⁠

I delve into the remarkable life of Peter Stewart, a former Royal Scots Dragoon Guard Chieftain tank driver whose experiences during the Cold War offer a unique perspective on military life. Peter's stories are filled with humour and nostalgia, particularly when he recalls his time in Berlin. His anecdotes are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Peter shares tales of training that tested the limits of his physical endurance, the friendships forged in the face of adversity, and the lessons learned that would stay with him for life. One of the highlights of the episode is Peter's recounting of Exercise Rocking Horse, an exercise designed to test the readiness of the British Army in the event of a Soviet invasion. Related episodes BRIXMIS, the defence of Cold War Berlin & Rudolf Hess https://pod.fo/e/f833 Life as a British Soldier in Cold War West Berlin https://pod.fo/e/163e4 The Last British Commandant in Cold War West Berlin Part 1 https://pod.fo/e/27472 The Last British Commandant

Irina Nistor worked as a translator of TV programs in Romania under the Communist regime, and is known for secretly voicing over thousands of banned movie titles on VHS tapes smuggled in from the West in the four years between 1985 and the revolution. She was reckeoned to be the 2nd most famous voice in Romania after the Communist leader Nicolae Ceaușescu. In a basement with two TVs, a VCR, and a microphone, she voiced four to six films a night, from Doctor Zhivago to cartoons her children watched. Though distribution was handled by her recruiter, Teodor Zamfir, her Romanian-language voice overs spread across the country, reaching crowded living rooms where families gathered around rare VHS players. These films offered Romanians a forbidden glimpse of life beyond the Iron Curtain—stories free of ideology, filled with possibility and freedom. While her precise role in communism’s fall is immeasurable, Nistor’s voice became one of defiance, opening a window to the wider world and inspiring hope under Cea

He was a KGB colonel. A double agent. And the most valuable spy Britain ever had. Born into a world of secrets & silence in Moscow Oleg Gordievsky’s journey takes us from the waning days of Stalin to his disillusionment with the Soviet system and his defection to MI6. He lived a secret life at the heart of Soviet intelligence — all while feeding classified information to London. From within the KGB’s London station, he exposed espionage operations, influenced diplomacy at the highest level, and warned of dangerous Soviet paranoia at the height of nuclear tensions. When discovery loomed, Britain launched one of the most daring escapes in espionage history. This is the astonishing true story of betrayal, conscience, and survival in the darkest shadows of the Cold War. Related episodes: 1983 – the year the Cold War almost turned hot https://coldwarconversations.com/episode316/ Episode extras ⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/episode418/⁠ The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and v

The Berlin Airlift stands as one of the most significant events in Cold War history, a testament to the resilience and determination of the Allies in the face of Soviet adversity. I speak with 98 year old veteran Ralph Dionne, who played a crucial role in this monumental operation. Ralph details the story of the Berlin Airlift and shares his journey from basic training to becoming a flight engineer during the Airlift. His insights provide a unique perspective on the challenges faced by military personnel tasked with delivering food, coal, and other supplies under the threat of Soviet control. The airlift was not just a logistical operation; it was a lifeline for the people of West Berlin, showcasing the unity and resolve of the Western Allies. One of the most touching aspects of Ralph's story is the kindness shown by airmen who dropped candy to children in Berlin, a gesture that became known as Operation Little Vittles. This act of humanity amidst war served to strengthen the bond between the Allies and

Today is 80 years since the atomic bombing of the Japanese city of Nagasaki. I talk with Stephen Walker who is the author of Shockwave: Countdown to Hiroshima. He has spent years researching the atomic bombings and highlights how they impacted Soviet/US relations in the early Cold War as well as US relations with their Allies. We reflect on the decisions made at the time, his interviews with the scientists who worked on them and the last surviving aircrew who dropped the bombs. Many aircrew believed they were participating in a mission that would hasten the end of the war, but the reality of what they witnessed—cities obliterated in an instant—haunted them for the rest of their lives. The threat of nuclear warfare remains a pressing issue today, and understanding the motivations and decisions that led to Hiroshima and Nagasaki can help inform our current global discussions on security and peace. Buy the book https://uk.bookshop.org/a/1549/9780008372552 Stephen's Guardian article https://www.th