Eyewitness History

John Kiriakou has a unique distinction in history. He was formerly an officer with the CIA and, incredibly, was responsible for the capture of Abu Zubaydah, who was then believed to be the third highest ranking official of al-Qaeda. But, it was in 2007, when Kiriakou risked all the accolades by choosing to become a whistleblower on the CIA’s torture program. Kiriakou went on ABC News and not only said that the CIA does indeed torture prisoners, but went on to say that the torture was official policy within the agency, with knowleged of its existence reaching up to and including then-President George W. Bush. As a result of this, Kiriakou spent almost two years in prison. This is his story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Ronald Wayne, one of the original co-founders of Apple Inc. Ronald shares his unique perspective on the early days of Apple, his contributions, and his role in creating the company's first logo.Episode Highlights:The Birth of Apple: Ronald Wayne recounts the events leading up to the founding of Apple Computer, Inc. in 1976, shedding light on the vision and passion that fueled this iconic tech startup.Working with Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak: Gain insights into what it was like to collaborate with the legendary Steve Jobs and the technical genius of Steve Wozniak during the company's formative years.Creating the First Apple Logo: Discover Ronald Wayne's pivotal role in designing the company's very first logo and how it symbolized the values and aspirations of Apple.The Apple I: Learn about the development of the Apple I computer, the company's first product, and the challenges and successes it brought.Ronald's Decision to Leave Apple: Explore the reasons behind Ronald Wayne's decision to sell his shares in Apple just days after the company's founding and how that decision has impacted his life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we pay tribute to the legendary fighter pilot, Bud Anderson, whose extraordinary career left an indelible mark on aviation history.Episode Highlights:A Young Aviation Enthusiast: Bud Anderson's journey began with his fascination for flying, leading him to join the Civilian Pilot Training program.World War II Service: Bud enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces and became a triple ace, achieving 16¼ aerial victories during the war."Old Crow": Learn about Anderson's iconic P-51 Mustang, "Old Crow," and its significant role in his combat missions.Guardian of Bombers: Discover how Anderson and his fellow Mustang pilots provided vital escort protection to American bombers on perilous missions.Awards and Recognitions: Explore the medals and honors bestowed upon Bud Anderson for his remarkable bravery and combat skills.Post-War Career: After WWII, Anderson continued his service in the U.S. Air Force, contributing to various roles and conflicts, including the Korean War.Living Legend: Bud Anderson's legacy lives on through his books, documentaries, and public engagements, inspiring aviation enthusiasts and honoring the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation.Follow the Show on Social Media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EyewitnessHistoryTwitter: https://twitter.com/EyewitnessPodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Ballam has had an operatic and recital career spanning four decades and every continent.As a recitalist, Mr. Ballam has performed with critical acclaim in some of the most important concert halls in the country, including the Kennedy Center (Washington DC), Orchestra Hall (Chicago), Jordan Hall (Boston), Jones Hall (Houston), and the Los Angeles Music Center. He has also performed with Broadway legends Karen Akers, Tammy Grimes, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Jean Stapleton and Ethel Merman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian Branco was with five co-workers on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001. He and one other person in his group survived.He has written, "I remember being farther away and looking up at the building. There was a big hole in the right tower (Tower 1) and the left tower (Tower 2) was on fire. I was thinking how could the fire jump from one tower to the other tower. I was also thinking that this is a real life Towering Inferno."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We delve into the remarkable story of Martha Hodes, a historian whose personal experience intertwines with history's most gripping moments. On September 6, 1970, twelve-year-old Martha Hodes and her thirteen-year-old sister embarked on a flight from Israel to New York City, an ordinary journey that would soon become an extraordinary tale. Their plane, however, fell victim to a hijacking orchestrated by members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, altering their lives in ways they could not have imagined.Navigating the complexities of an Israeli-Palestinian conflict as young bystanders, Martha and her sister found themselves stranded in the Jordan desert for six days. In her memoir, "My Hijacking: A Personal History of Forgetting and Remembering," Martha Hodes brings to life her fragmented memories of those harrowing days, drawing from her own recollections, conversations with family and friends, and meticulous archival research.Through Martha's lens, we revisit the past. The narrative takes us on a journey that bridges history and personal experience, shedding light on the hostage crisis that reverberated globally. As Martha grapples with the trauma of the past, she also unearths the profound divisions that persist to this day, underscoring the ongoing struggles in the region.My Hijacking: A Personal History of Forgetting and Rememberingis not only a gripping account of survival but also an exploration of empathy and understanding. Join us as we uncover Martha Hodes' captivating tale of resilience, introspection, and the enduring impact of historical events on our lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode I speak with Paul Moses. Paul is a former Newsday city editor and senior religion writer, as well as a professor of journalism at Brooklyn College and the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He was also the lead writer on a Newsday team that won the Pulitzer Prize. He has also written a new book called The Italian Squad: The True Story of the Immigrant Cops Who Fought the Rise of the Mafia. We discussed the book as well as his experiences as a journalist, what it was like winning a pulitzer prize and where he was on 9/11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Robert Wittman, a former FBI agent renowned for his expertise in art crime investigation and cultural heritage protection. We delved into his book "Priceless: How I Went Undercover to Rescue the World's Stolen Treasures," and explored his role in recovering the iconic Bill of Rights, among other captivating topics.Key Highlights:Art Crime Expertise: Robert Wittman's extensive experience in the FBI's Art Crime Team has made him a leading authority in the world of art crime investigation and recovery.Undercover Operations: Wittman's undercover work unveiled the intricate world of art thieves and their motivations. He highlighted the challenges and risks associated with these operations.Recovering the Bill of Rights: One of the most riveting stories involved the recovery of the Bill of Rights, a national treasure that had been stolen. Wittman's meticulous efforts led to its safe return.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spike Edney has numerous links to Queen, to the extent that he was often described as the fifth member. Born on 11 December 1951, he has worked with Ben E King, Edwin Starr, The Boomtown Rats, Dexy's Midnight Runners, Duran Duran, Bon Jovi, Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones, Ian Hunter, Manic Street Preachers, Beautiful South, Gary Barlow, Peter Green, Joe Cocker, 10CC, and countless more.Spike's connections with Queen began in 1984, when he appeared on the European leg of 'The Works' tour, providing additional guitar and keyboards. From then onwards he appeared at almost every show until Queen stopped touring in 1986, appearing on the 'Live In Rio', 'Live In Budapest' and 'Live At Wembley' videos, as well as the 'Live At Wembley 1986' and 'Live Magic' albums. He also appeared on Queen's 1986 studio album, 'A Kind Of Magic'.Spike can be seen playing keyboards Queen's historic 1985 Live Aid performance at Wembley StadiumSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we have a truly extraordinary guest who has spent his life on the frontlines of international intrigue and covert operations. Get ready to dive deep into the world of paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and clandestine activities as we sit down with none other than Ric Prado, a seasoned veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).Ric Prado: A Man of Mystery and Expertise Join us as we unravel the gripping tale of Ric Prado's remarkable twenty-four-year career at the CIA. With an impressive resume spanning six overseas posts, Mr. Prado is a true luminary in the world of intelligence and security. From his role as Deputy Chief of Station in the original Bin Ladin Task Force/Issues Station to his position as Chief of Station in a hostile Muslim country, Mr. Prado's experiences are nothing short of captivating.On the Frontlines of History: Counterterrorism During 9/11 One of the most gripping segments of our interview delves into Mr. Prado's tenure as Chief of Operations in the CIA's Counterterrorist Center (CTC) during the tragic events of September 11th. Discover how Mr. Prado played a pivotal role in coordinating the CIA/CTC's special operations activities with key stakeholders, including the National Security Council, the FBI, and elite U.S. military units such as Delta Force and SEAL Team Six. Gain insights into the intense collaboration and strategic maneuvers that took place behind the scenes.From Central America to the Philippines: Adventures in Special OperationsIn the early years of his career, Ric Prado served as a paramilitary officer in the Special Operations Group/Special Activities Division (SOG/SAD) at the CIA. Prepare to be enthralled by his riveting accounts of life in the trenches, including his groundbreaking role as the first CIA officer to live in the anti-Sandinista "Contra" camps in Central America. Hear about his high-stakes counter-terrorism and insurgency operations in Peru and the Philippines that pushed the boundaries of courage and dedication.Pick up his book “Black Ops: The Life Of A CIA Shadow Warrior at https://ricprado.com/Follow the Show on Social Media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EyewitnessHistoryTwitter: https://twitter.com/EyewitnessPodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.