British deception operation
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In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on a beloved Broadway musical: The Rocky Horror Show. THE cult-classic of cult-classics, this show has become a ritualistic experience around the world and has accrued a diverse fandom of all ages, genders, sexualities, etc. There are many ways to experience The Rocky Horror Show these days, but it all started on the stage!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Content Advisory: The following episode contains conversations surrounding topics that may be triggering, such as eating disorders and suicide.In Episode 104, Brennan is joined by NYC-based performer and founder of the Broadway Mental Health Foundation, Emerson Valentina, as they discuss the hazards of some "traditional" musical theatre/ dance education, and the importance of creating psychologically safe spaces across the industry. For too long now, performers have been encouraged and demanded to put unsafe levels of stress on their body and mind, and told it was the only way to succeed, and it's important that we don't continue to spread those falsehoods to the generations to come!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
RHLSTP #611 - Smell The Magic - Richard is podcasting in the middle of his run of 8 performances of a play. His guest must be in awe, it's one of the brains behind and up front in Operation Mincemeat (which may have run almost as long) Natasha Hodgson. They talk about the work that she took on during lockdown, having to eat inky eggs in her first acting job, the phenomenal success of Mincemeat and the toll it took on her, Rich's experience of musical and musical grades (you are treated to several songs from him and not much from Natasha - sorry), how Mincemeat elevated the women involved in the original mission, what the musical awakened in Rich, the extraordinary audio experience that is The Sink, plus some revealing emergency questions and some very bad advice for writers. Plus the world's most controversial musical Dazzle and writing for puppets (I didn't know you could do that).SUPPORT THE SHOW!See details of the RHLSTP LIVE DATES Watch our TWITCH CHANNELBecome a badger and see extra content at our WEBSITE Buy DVDs and books from GO FASTER STRIPEAudio mix by Ben Evans (NTO)Thanks to Chris Evans (NTO) and Ben WalkerRecorded at the Leicester Square Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on a lesser known, sci-fi Broadway musical, Starmites. This niche, superhero/ space adventure/ boyband musical is camp to the max, and a whole lot of fun! So, let's show it some love!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
How did a deceased, homeless Welshman become the most effective secret agent of World War II? This episode uncovers the brilliant espionage tradecraft behind Operation Mincemeat, a masterclass in counter-intelligence orchestrated by British naval intelligence officers Ewen Montagu and Charles Cholmondeley. Discover how MI5 meticulously forged "pocket litter," created a fake fiancée, and built a flawless legend for a corpse to completely blindside Nazi intelligence.
Listen to the Show Right Click to Save GuestsGround Floor Theatre Pueblo RevoltCommunication by Captivation Wild Card Wizard of Oz What We Talked About The Tonys Snubs Lifetime Achievement Evita on B'way Imitation Life Operation Mincemeat tour Student Theatre Recognition Moby Dick – Robert Wilson & Juliet for schools Liberation - Pulitzer Thank you to Dean Johanesen, lead singer of "The Human Condition" who gave us permission to use "Step Right Up" as our theme song, so please visit their website.. they're good! (that's an order)
In Episode 103, Brennan is joined by NYC actor, Cambria Klein, as they mourn the soon to be death of the EMC program and try to figure out what the heck they're gonna do now! The decision is a very complex one to make and there are 1 million factors to take into consideration. However at the end of the day, it's a decision only you can make for yourself, so you gotta trust your heart!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
We're back! After a brief hiatus, Karen is joined by one of her students (Hi, Julia!) to talk her recent travels to NYC. We combine Karen's two favorite things: history and theatre. She takes us on a deep dive of the across the pond transfer, Operation Mincemeat. Based on a true story from WWII, this hilarious, yet poignant, musical does the impossible with 5 actors playing over 83 roles! @downstageleftpc
Brandon Contreras is a New York City born and raised creative whose energy and versatility have made him a standout on stages ranging from the Golden Theatre to New World Stages. A graduate of Pace University, Brandon made his Broadway debut in the original company of Almost Famous and appeared in the first national tour of In the Heights. His diverse credits include playing Cal in the hit musical Titanique and appearing in Jerry Springer: The Opera with The New Group, as well as Road Show and Titanic at New York City Center Encores!. Beyond the stage, he is an accomplished filmmaker and writer, co-creating the award winning sketch platform The Homo Sapien Experience. Currently, Brandon is starring as Charles Cholmondeley and others in the Broadway production of Operation Mincemeat. In this episode, Brandon shares what it was like growing up in Chelsea, Hell's Kitchen, and the Upper West Side, describing himself as a "city kid" who learned to rollerblade before he could ride a bike. He discusses the pivotal role his sister played in his introduction to theater and the unwavering support of his parents throughout his journey. Brandon opens up about the tenacity required to break into the industry, including auditioning for In the Heights 11 times and negotiating his first national tour contract from the back of a New Jersey Transit bus at age 20. He also speaks passionately about queer and Latin representation, the journey of embracing his curly hair, and the importance of showing a delicate, sensitive side of brown men on stage. Brandon also takes us behind the scenes of Operation Mincemeat, a show he describes as "the final destination show" due to its incredible technical specificity and fast paced nature. He explains the "math" of comedy, the transition from understudy to principal performer, and the joy of sharing the stage with his real life best friend. Throughout the conversation, Brandon emphasizes the power of being unabashedly yourself and the motivation he finds in love for his craft and community. This episode is powered by WelcomeToTimesSquare.com, the billboard where you can be a star for a day. Connect with Brandon: @ohhey_brandon @thehomosapienexperience Connect with The Theatre Podcast: Support the podcast on Patreon and watch video versions of the episodes: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast Instagram: @theatre_podcast Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast TheTheatrePodcast.com Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Natasha Hodgson is a British writer, performer, and composer for theatre, television, and audio. As a co-founder of the theatre company Spit-Lip, she co-created, co-wrote, and co-composed Operation Mincemeat, the wildly inventive musical that began life at the New Diorama Theatre in 2019 before evolving through multiple runs to become a West End phenomenon.In 2024, the show won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical, with my guest also nominated for Best Actress for her performance as Ewen Montagu. In 2025 she continued the role on Broadway, where the production opened to critical acclaim and multiple Tony nominations. Alongside her theatre work, she has written for television series including Don't Hug Me I'm Scared, The Amazing World of Gumball, and Bravest Warriors, and created the acclaimed BBC Sounds comedy series The Sink. Across stage and screen, her work combines sharp wit, musical invention, and a flair for ensemble storytelling.Why on Earth Have I Seen the Same Broadway Show 13 Times? An Investigation - Taffy Brodesser-Akner, New York Times Magazine.Operation Mincemeat Official WebsiteBecome a My Perfect Console supporter and receive a range of benefits at www.patreon.com/myperfectconsoleTake the Acast listener survey to help shape the show: My Perfect Console with Simon Parkin Survey 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Episode 102, Brennan is joined by NY actor and podcaster, Erica Ito, as they talk about lowering the stakes of school, embracing cringe, and her journey of joining the tour of Wicked! They also touch on developing the skill (and yes it is a skill) of not caring so much about certain things in order to keep your eyes on the true goal!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 101, Brennan is once again joined by Broadway's Michael Ivan Carrier, as they talk about all the amazing things Michael has been up to since the last time they were on our show! From their first co-star on tv, to stepping into a principal role full time on Broadway, it's been a busy couple years! Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the Broadway musical Xanadu! This movie to stage musical is a fun cult classic filled with roller skates, fake Australian accents, Greek mythology, and more! If that doesn't check all the boxes, then I don't know what does!!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 99, Brennan is joined by Senior Theatre/TV/Film Agent from Take 3 Talent, Michele Cavallero, as they break down the agent/actor relationship and address all the responsibilities that come along with it! A lot of folks believe the misconception that having an agent will solve all their problems and remove so much of their responsibilities, but there is so much teamwork that goes into making that relationship fruitful for all!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In this week's mini-sode we are shining the spotlight on Broadway's Twelfth Night- inspired, Elvis Presley jukebox musical "All Shook Up"! Yeah, you heard that right! A Broadway musical inspired by a Shakespeare play, set to the tunes of Elvis Presley! What more could you ask for??Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 98, Brennan is joined by the creator of "Meet the Robinsons the Unofficial Concept Album", Elijah Zurek, as the two of them discuss bravery, confidence, tenacity, and the sheer need to just keep moving forward! You know when you sign up for a career in this industry that it is going to be hard, but sometimes you just need to say "This is going to be successful" and don't stop til its true!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on Disney's Frozen the Musical. Perhaps one of Disney's most well known franchise, the stage adaptation took on a different lens to cater more towards an adult audience. The life of the show on Broadway was cut short by the pandemic, but the production is still going strong in the regional market across the US!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Listen to the Show Right Click to Save GuestsPenfold Theatre Wild HorsesWhat We Talked About Bigfoot Cyrano Chinese Republican Stage Management Symposium Megan Thee Stallion on B'way Sensory Friendly Hamilton Operation Mincemeat golden ticket Happy Bday Liza Kenney Center Honors Drama Club Camp His Name Was Bobby Short Thank you to Dean Johanesen, lead singer of "The Human Condition" who gave us permission to use "Step Right Up" as our theme song, so please visit their website.. they're good! (that's an order)
In Episode 97, Brennan is joined by Broadways Claybourne Elder, as they talk about his journey studying theatre in several countries, nearly quitting the industry, and how to maintain your self identity amidst the highest high and the lowest low! It's so important that we ground ourselves in life so that we can celebrate the highs, and then when they dissipate the lows don't feel as hard!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Operation Mincemeat is doing the coolest giveaway we've ever seen, Moulin Rouge announced one of the craziest castings we've ever seen, and Oh Mary continues to give its audience exactly what it wants.
In this first mini-sode of year 3, we are shining the spotlight on the Broadway musical "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels". While we did spend a quarter of this episode talking about the Traitors, we promise this is a great show to know, especially for all our character actors out there!!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Aoife Haakenson (Six / I Was A Teenage She-Devil) co-hosts The West End Frame Show!Aoife joins Andrew Tomlins (West End Frame's Editor) to discuss Titaníque (Criterion Theatre), Woman in Mind starring Sheridan Smith (Duke of York's Theatre), Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula The Sea Witch (The Other Palace) and Oh, Mary! (Trafalgar Theatre).They also delve into the latest theatre news about Jesus Christ Superstar, Operation Mincemeat, Billy Elliot, Choir Boy, Paranormal Activity and more.Aoife made her theatrical debut as Pepper in the 2010 Asia Tour of Annie. She moved to the UK in 2019 to train at Mountview and went on to play Mary Sheldon in The Crucible (National Theatre) before starring as Catherine Parr in the UK and International Tour of Six.Last year Aoife played Mother in Pop Off, Michelangelo! (Underbelly Boulevard, London & Edinburgh Fringe Festival). Over Christmas she played Tink in The All New Adventures of Peter Pan (The Grove Theatre, Dunstable) and, next up, Aoife is leading the cast of I Was A Teenage She-Devil as Nancy at The Other Palace Studio this April. Follow Aoife on Instagram: @aoife_haakensonI Was a Teenage She-Devil runs at The Other Palace Studio 2nd – 26th April. Visit www.theotherpalace.co.uk for info and tickets. This podcast is hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening!Email: andrew@westendframe.co.ukVisit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Episode 96, Brennan is once again joined by actor and now casting assistant, Sarah Hogewood, as they talk about TYA, the fear of cringe, the idea of "play", and the ways being on the casting side of the process has influenced how she approaches the acting side now! Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In this week's mini-sode we are shining the spotlight on Broadway's Sister Act the Musical! From screen to stage, this show is a delightful mix of habits and shenanigans that has made it the classic it is today!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 95, Brennan is joined by actor/ fellow audition monitor, Kevin Herrera, as they talk about audition season and all of the common questions/ situations they experience! The audition process can be very daunting and scary, but above all else, they want you to know that they are there to help!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In this week's mini-sode, we're shining the spotlight on one of the most iconic Broadway musicals, "The Phantom of the Opera"! Obviously everyone has heard of this show, and there is good reason as to why it's the longest running production in Broadway history!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Stuart talks to the award winning writer and composer of Calendar Girls and Kinky Boots - Tim Firth - about his latest stage creation, The Ladies Football Club. Can the man who got his break with a play about two yucca plants strike fresh gold with this tale of the women who began to play football whist working in Sheffield's munitions factories during World War I and end up playing to many thousands in a South Yorkshire women's league. Taskmaster and Mr Bigstuff star Fatiha El-Ghorri says she's ironing her swaggest hijab to head out on her debut stand up tour - Cockney Stacking Doll. She'll also have the story of her journey out from divorce and back on the dating scene in her new Radio 4 comedy - A Match Made Inshallah. Tom Hodgkinson's the editor of The Idler and author of books such as How to be Idle, The Idle Parent and - here's the outlier - The Ukelele Handbook. So perhaps busier than he makes out? His new book is a fresh look at one of the world's oldest philosophies - How to Live Like A Stoic. Stoicism is having a moment in the manosphere but he explains how "bro-ism" has got stoicism all wrong. With music from the cast of the smash hit musical Operation Mincemeat and from BBC Introducing "one to watch" , Lois.Presenter: Stuart Maconie Producer: Olive Clancy Assistant Producer: Samuel Nixon Technical Producers: John Coles, Amy Brennan, Phillip Halliwell Production Co-ordinator: Pete Liggins.
[REBROADCAST FROM Apr 1, 2025] The Olivier Award-winning musical "Operation Mincemeat" was a sensation on London's West End, before landing on Broadway along with its original cast. But after Feb. 22, they'll be passing the torch to an all-American cast. The show is based on the true story of a daring and implausible British intelligence mission to trick the German forces. David Cumming, Natasha Hodgson, and Zoe Roberts, who co-wrote and star in the musical, discuss the show.Photo by Julieta Cervantes
In Episode 94, Brennan is joined by former Broadway actor turned Financial Advisor, Kevin Worley, as they talk about all the tricks and tools actors can use to set themselves up for the most financial stability possible! While we are all aware of the age old trope of the struggling artist, they may not need to be struggling as much was they think!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 93, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Robb Sapp as they talk about what it's like for the little theatre nerd to make it all the way to Broadway! Not only is Robb incredibly talented with a resumé to boot, but he also the kindest, most humble guy who still lets that little inner theatre kid out to experience the wonders of Broadway!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In World War II, a secret department of British 'corkscrew thinkers' hatched a plan to use the cadaver of an unclaimed homeless man to turn the tide of the war in the Allies' favor. It worked. Listen to this classic episode as Josh and Chuck take you through the real life tale.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the Broadway musical "[title of show]"! This delightful little one act musical is a hidden gem full of friendship, silliness, and some cozy, good vibes!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 92, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Shelby Acosta as they talk about theatre boarding school, getting into the grind, and making sure you're always bringing yourself to every space you enter!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the 2012 Pasek and Paul musical: Dogfight! This one is quite a doozy of a plot with some absolute bops thrown in there, but boy did it leave us with a lot to talk about!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In the early hours of 30 April, 1943, the most audacious hoax of World War Two has just got underway. Its code-name - Operation Mincemeat.The body of a British naval officer, Major William Martin, has been washed up on a Spanish beach. The dead man is carrying top-secret papers revealing details of a planned Allied invasion, and it's not long before they fall into enemy hands.But the plans are false and Major Martin doesn't exist.In a daring mission, British naval intelligence has requisitioned a corpse and dressed him in uniform to plant fake information. It works.But for decades, no-one knew the real name of the man who'd played the biggest part: Major William Martin.Enter Roger Morgan, an amateur historian. He tells Jane Wilkinson how Operation Mincemeat unfolded and how he uncovered the major's true identity.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there.For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.Recent episodes explore everything from the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue.We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina's Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall' speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler's List; and Jacques Derrida, France's ‘rock star' philosopher.You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world's oldest languages.(Photo: William Martin's ID card. Credit: National Archives, Kew)
In Episode 91, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Tiernan Tunnicliffe as they talk about the shifts that have to happen after you achieve your dreams, and giving yourself permission to make new ones! It's often in those moments of uncertainty that you discover new passions and goals you hadn't let yourself entertain before!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on Broadway's favorite corn musical, "Shucked"! Well... it's a musical about corn, and if that's not incentive enough to listen to this episode, I don't know what is!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Eric Johnson joins Amy Iler and Jack Sunday (while JJ Is away) to talk about what he's been watching and what he recommends going into the weekend... In this episode, Jack recommends: Brockmire, Soul On Fire, Blacklist, Lucifer, Operation Mincemeat and The Best You Can. Eric recommends: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (premiering this weekend), Death by Lightning (limited series) and The Americans (long series). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is Broadway entering a new era? All signs point towards YES! In this episode, Lindsey recaps her FIRST show of the new year, Frozen at Paper Mill Playhouse!Broadway News:
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the very beloved Broadway musical "Ragtime"! With its current Broadway production extending nearly 6 months, this star-studded revival is the talk of the town!Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut NovelMost writing podcasts just inspire. This one teaches the craft skills that hook readers.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In the first Dead Drop Five episode of 2026, Spybrary host Shane Whaley welcomes new Spybrary guest host Bryan Boling for a deep dive into his five favourite spy books, the titles that Brian would request be stashed in the East Berlin Dead Drop. Full links to Brian's selection at https://www.spybrary.com/285 Join the Spybrary Community Today Brian, a history lover and spy book fan from Kentucky, categorizes his selections across nonfiction, classic and modern fiction, and reflects on what makes each pick significant—from the ingenious real operation at the heart of Operation Mincemeat to the classic The Odessa File and contemporary espionage series Slow Horses. Throughout the lively conversation, Shane and Brian explore not just plot summaries but why these books resonate, how historical context enriches them, and what makes a spy story timeless. The episode closes with Brian's picks for music, a luxury item, and the spy he'd want extracting him from East Berlin. Key Topics & Themes Discussed Music, luxury item, and fictional rescue fantasy Dead Drop Five format and ethos Creative real‑world espionage (Operation Mincemeat) The lasting appeal of Cold War and World War II spy stories Spy fiction from classic to modern Narrative style: writing that reads like thriller vs. traditional history Historical memory and the aftermath of war Reading mediums (audiobook vs. print) and engagement Spy culture, community, and recommendations Strap in—this is going to be a Spybrary episode to remember. The Dead Drop 5 is back! In this much-requested Spybrary feature, our guest is embedded behind the Iron Curtain and can request five spy books, a gadget, luxury items and more from their handler.
In Episode 90, it is time for the annual solo episode as Brennan goes back and talks about everything we've chatted about during Year 2! It was a really great year for the pod, and we are so excited for what 2026 has in store!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
From the beach to the dancefloor... 1. Ane Brun ft Dustin O'Halloran - Lose My WayTaken from the Netflix Series “Bodies” and Chosen by Rob in Nuneaton2. Dead Can Dance - The Host of SeraphimTaken from the 2007 film “The Mist” and chosen by Anthony in New South Wales3. Vincenzo Lamagna - Love Duet ITaken from the Akram Khan ballet Giselle and chosen by George in London4. James Blake - I Want You To KnowTaken from a Lexus Advert and chosen by Gina in Chislehurst5. Thomas Newman - Personal and Most SecretTaken from the 2021 film Operation Mincemeat and chosen by Ben in Suffolk6. Julie Cruise - FallingTaken from the TV series Twin Peaks and chosen by Guy in Sunderland7. Sigur Ros - RafstraumurTaken from the documentary Under An Arctic Sky and chosen by Charlie In Australia8. Vangelis - Rachels SongTaken from The Bladerunner Soundtrack and chosen by Matt in Edinburgh9. Jeremy Soule - SolitudeTaken from the Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Game Soundtrack and chosen by Jay in Germany10. Phosphorescent - Song For ZulaTaken from the TV Series Superstore and chosen by Jaqueline in Sheffield11. Ludovico Einaudi - ExperienceTaken from the TV series The Traitors and chosen by Caroline in West Yorkshire12. Bjork & David Arnold - Play DeadTaken From the film Young Americans and chosen by Lee in Derby13. Hans Zimmer - Cornfield Chase / Flying DroneTaken from the film Intersteller and chosen by Alex in Hertfordshire14. Frou Frou - Let GoTaken from the 2004 film Garden State and chosen by Andrea in Adelaide
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the holiday classic "Meet Me In St. Louis"! From screen to stage, this charming little show has cemented itself as a must-watch for so many every holiday season!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 89, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Russell Daniels as they talk about his journey from a degree in Music Education to being Josh Gad's standby in Gutenberg on Broadway! From sketch comedy, to hit parody shows, to Broadway itself, Russell has made a name for himself as one of the best comedic actors in the biz, and has a lot of wisdom to share of how he did it!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Today's podcast will feature 2 totally unbelievable stories from the battlefield. The audio from both of these stories has been pulled from our main YouTube channel, which is just called "MrBallen," and has been remastered for today's podcast.Story names, previews & links to original YouTube videos:#2 -- "Last Stand" -- If there is the one war story everyone needs to hear at least once, it's this one... it is both absolutely horrific and utterly inspiring (Original YouTube link -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Svkc8tA4bwU)#1 -- "Cloak & Dagger" -- There are many unbelievable stories that have come from WWII, but today's story might be the single-most influential event that happened in the entire war (Original YouTube link -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vfc5_s5eYyQ) For 100s more stories like these, check out our main YouTube channel just called "MrBallen" -- https://www.youtube.com/c/MrBallenIf you want to reach out to me, contact me on Instagram, Twitter or any other major social media platform, my username on all of them is @mrballen Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In a little casting exclusive, Alex Wood reveals two of the agents tackling the multi-award-winning musical Operation Mincemeat, which kicks off its first ever tour in February 2026. Based on the true story of a plot to con the Nazis during World War Two, it also continues its run in the West End at the Fortune Theatre. So sit back, pour a glass of sangria and see who's born to lead! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Cindy is joined by Tony Award–winning actor Jak Malone, known for his role in Operation Mincemeat on Broadway. They discuss his role in the show and his love of acting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On The Cindy Adams Show, Cindy starts the show joined by Tony-Award Winning actor Jak Malone to talk about his love of acting and role in Operation Mincemeat on Broadway. She later chats with Derrick Goff, an opera coach, about teaching opera techniques. She wraps up the show with a Thanksgiving message. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A grim plan is executed during World War 2.Calm History: https://podfollow.com/calm-historyMore Ghost Town: https://www.ghosttownpod.comSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/ghosttownpod (7 Day Free Trial!)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ghosttownpodJason's InstagramRebecca's Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.