Podcasts about ric prado

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief proudly introduces Four Branches Bourbon—a powerful expression of patriotism, forged by warriors and rooted in sacrifice. He's joined by three of the four founders—Rick Franco, Mike Trott, and Harold Underdown—veterans who've worn the uniform and now honor their brothers and sisters through bourbon. The story begins with Rick Franco, a Marine and CIA contractor who made it home—but carries the memory of those who didn't. Their names aren't on a bottle, but on the sacred wall at CIA headquarters, marked by stars and remembered in every sip. The team opens with the Founders Blend—a four-grain bourbon bottled at 96 proof to honor the 96-hour liberty pass cherished by every service member. With notes of burnt orange peel, caramel, and warm cinnamon, it's a bold reminder of time earned and sacrifice made. In the second half, they raise a glass of Black OPS—a 9-year-old bourbon finished in Caribbean dark rum casks. Created in honor of CIA legend Ric Prado and all elite Black Ops warriors, it's as deep and complex as the missions they never speak of. And yes—it awakens the dirty old sailor in Big Chief. Four Branches Bourbon isn't just whiskey. It's a tribute to the fallen. A legacy for the living. And a reminder that freedom is paid for in blood, not words. So pour a glass, stand tall, and join us in a toast to courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of the American warrior. This is The Whiskey Trip. Cheers, y'all.

Ric Prado is a paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and clandestine operations specialist with a 24-year career in the CIA's Directorate of Operations. A seasoned field operative, he spent a decade in the Agency's Special Activities Division before serving as Deputy Chief of Station of the Bin Laden Task Force and Chief of Operations at the CIA's Counterterrorism Center on 9/11. From running counter-terrorism missions in Central America, Peru, and the Philippines to coordinating high-stakes operations with our nation's most elite special mission units, Ric has been at the heart of America's most critical covert missions. He is the author of BLACK OPS: THE LIFE OF A CIA SHADOW WARRIOR. FOLLOW SCOTTLinkedIn: @Enrique-Ric-PradoFacebook: @RicPradoInstagram: @prado_ricTwitter: @RicPrado2Website: https://www.ricprado.com/FOLLOW JACKInstagram - @JackCarrUSA X - @JackCarrUSAFacebook - @JackCarr YouTube - @JackCarrUSASPONSORSCRY HAVOC – A Tom Reece Thriller https://www.officialjackcarr.com/books/cry-havoc/Bravo Company Manufacturing Mk15 Timepiece - MOD3:https://bravocompanyusa.com/bcm-mk15-timepiece-mod-3/ and on Instagram @BravoCompanyUSATHE SIGs of Jack Carr, From Savage Son: P320 X Compact, P320 Custom build from True Precision, P365 Customized from the Sig Custom Workshop, P226 Visit https://www.sigsauer.com/ and on Instagram @sigsauerinc STACCATO HD: https://staccato2011.com/hd and on Instagram @staccato2011Jack Carr Gear: Explore the gear here https://jackcarr.co/gear 

Ric Prado has chased bad guys all over the world. He took down terrorist Osama bin Laden, he worked undercover in North Korea and he’s risked his life more times than he can count. The former CIA operative joins Gary Jubelin to reveal what really goes on behind closed doors to keep the world safe. Learn more about Ric Prado with his book, Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior, here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ric Prado spent three years sleeping in the Honduran jungle as an undercover spy. As a high-ranking CIA operative working in top secret Black Ops, Ric had one mission - do what he’s told and don’t get caught. As the real life James Bond, there’s a lot Ric can’t talk about - but this is what he can. Learn more about Ric Prado with his book, Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior, here. Can’t get enough of I Catch Killers? Stay up to date on all the latest crime news at The Daily Telegraph. Get episodes of I Catch Killers a week early and ad-free, as well as bonus content, by subscribing to Crime X+ today. Like the show? Get more at icatchkillers.com.au Advertising enquiries: newspodcastssold@news.com.au Questions for Gary: icatchkillers@news.com.au Get in touch with the show by joining our Facebook group, and visiting us on Instagram or Tiktok.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ric Prado teamed up with Grey Dynamics to give away signed copies of his book. The only thing you have to do to win is to comment “blackops” under the episode of this post. You will receive a DM with instructions!Welcome back to the Grey Dynamics podcast! The week we are talking to Ric Prado, a former CIA paramilitary operations officer and clandestine Special Activities Division (SAD) operator. Ric spent 24 years in the CIA, operating in the Middle East, Latin America, and East Asia. During the war on terror, Ric served as Chief of Operations at the CIA Counterterrorist Center (CTC), as well as setting up the Bin Laden Task Force. Previously, he served as an elite US Air Force Pararescue man. His New York Times Bestseller book, “Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior”, tells his life story and extraordinary experiences along the way. We spoke about leaving Cuba as a refugee, experiences on operations, being in the CIA as 9/11 unfolded and much more.Find Ric Pradoricprado.comLinkedInWe Spoke About:0:00 Ric Prado's background2:50 Leaving Cuba alone at the age of ten after the revolution6:26 Having a mischievous streak and not fitting in7:54 Ric's first day at CIA headquarters10:14 What was the onboarding process and first mission like?13:32 What makes Cuban-Americans so patriotic?17:53 Ric's experience working with the Sandinista's in Nicaragua21:43 Studying to become a CIA officer and going to “the farm”24:48 Going to work in Costa Rica27:51 Experiencing 9/11 from inside the CIA35:13 Experiencing the culture change in the CIA during the war on terror40:10 Discussing Billy Waugh45:50 Why do intelligence professionals in fiction get such a negative reputation?48:17 Advice for young people53:19 What Rick does now he has retired from the CIA56:35 Cultural recommendations1:00:34 Book GiveawayAdvance Your Intelligence Career Today!We are the first fully online intelligence school helping professionals to achieve their long term goals. Our school with tons of new material is currently under construction and will be out there very soon. Meanwhile, you can sign up and be the first to know when we launch, plus get exclusive tips and offers.Get access to exclusive Grey Dynamics ReportsWith security clearance, you can take a crucial role in our intelligence community. As a cleared member, you get access to Secret & Top Secret grade publications. If you are a Top Secret holder, you also get access to our community area, where you can interact with other members and with our analysts! Subscribe today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This WEDNESDAY night, January 31st 2024, on the I Detective Show, we will dive into the story of the real Ethan Hunt, Ric Prado, a CIA Shadow Warrior. He was the man who the Agency sent in on impossible missions that had to be done. Ric face some of the deadliest terrorists in the world and kept the United States safe. Ric was dropped into the jungles of South America, training anti-communist forces. Then fighting in the Philippines, Korea, and other hostile countries. After 9/11, he was the co-founder of the Bin Laden task force. Ric is an unsung hero who this county owes a debt to for keeping us safe.

Summary Lt. Col. (ret.) Aviram Halevi (LinkedIn) joins Andrew (Twitter; LinkedIn) to discuss Israel's top secret commando unit, Sayeret Matkal. Aviram formerly served as Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Sayeret Matkal.  What You'll Learn Intelligence The origins of Sayeret Matkal Collaboration across Israeli intelligence  Operation Spring of Youth & the Entebbe Raid Intelligence & hostage retrieval Reflections The value of teamwork No room for fear  And much, much more … Episode Notes This week on SpyCast, Andrew was joined by Aviram Halevi, former Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Sayeret Matkal, Israel's top-secret elite commando unit. Aviram served over two decades in various branches of Israeli intelligence, and recently co-wrote the book Sayeret Matkal: The Greatest Operations of Israel's Elite Commandos. Andrew and Aviram discuss the origins and history of the unit, including the stories of some of Sayeret Matkal's most notable operations.  And…  Sayeret Matkal's motto is “Who Dares Wins” – A motto first used by Britain's Special Air Service during World War II. Since then, 11 other elite special forces units have also adopted the saying. Quotes of the Week “What makes [Sayeret Matkal] so unique? The fact is that these people, and you mentioned that before, we are not rambos and there is no ramboism in the unit in Sayeret Matkal. On the contrary, the basic building block of the Sayeret is the team. The team is what you're kind of imprinted with once you get drafted. And this will be your designation forever. I'm team Raz. Raz was my commander, and my soldiers are team Aviram for the rest of their lives.” – Aviram Halevi. Resources  SURFACE SKIM *SpyCasts* The Intelligence Legacy of the Yom Kippur War with Uri Bar-Joseph (2023) Intelligence, Special Operations, and Strategy with Michael Vickers (2023) Israeli Military Intelligence with IDF Brig. General (Res.) Yossi Kuperwasser (2022) Black Ops: The Life of a Legendary CIA Shadow Warrior with Ric Prado (2022) *Beginner Resources* Massacre at the 1972 Olympic Games, National Park Service (2023) [Short article] What Is Sayeret Matkal, Israel's Special Forces Unit Set For Hostage Rescue Operation In Gaza?v, YouTube (2023) [7 min. video] Entebbe Raid, Encyclopedia Brittanica (n.d.) [Short encyclopedia entry] DEEPER DIVE Books Sayeret Matkal: The Greatest Operations of Israel's Elite Commandos, A. Shur & A. Halevi (Skyhorse, 2023) No Mission Is Impossible: The Death-Defying Missions of the Israeli Special Forces, M. Bar-Zohar & N. Mishal (Ecco, 2016)  Operation Thunderbolt: Flight 139 and the Raid on Entebbe Airport, the Most Audacious Hostage Rescue Mission in History, S. David (Little, Brown and Company, 2015) Vengeance: The True Story of an Israeli Counter-Terrorist Team, G. Jonas (Simon & Schuster, 2005)  Video Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story (2012) One Day in September (1999)  Primary Sources  Entebbe Protocols (1976) [Rabin, Allon, Peres, etc.] Ambassador Dinitz and Secretary Kissinger (June 30, 1976) Ambassador Dinitz and Secretary Kissinger (July 5, 1976) Uganda, Kenya Dispute (1976) Amin Says Uganda Retains Right to Reply to the Raid (1976) Speech by Ugandan Prime Minister on the 40th Anniversary of Entebbe (2016) *Wildcard Resource* Elite commando units like Sayeret Matkal, while not as focused on intelligence, go back as far as military history. To read about the special forces of antiquity, check out Persia's The Immortals, Byzantine's Tagma, and Rome's Extraordinarii

On today's show, I will chat with retired Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Alba Yates. In her 25-year career with the L.A. Sheriff's, she worked in the jail, street patrol, and the courts as a bailiff, and public information officer (P.I.O.).In today's episode we discuss:·      Her childhood memories in Cuba.·      How she got interested in law enforcement.·      Being a single mother with a one-year-old son and being a recruit in the sheriff's academy.·      How she got interested in law enforcement.·      Working in the jail.·      Working on the street, including West Hollywood.·      Her interest in being in showbusiness.·      Being the sheriff's P.I.O. and how she dealt with the press.·      Dating on the job with her now husband, Cliff Yates.·      Life after retirement and her children becoming sheriff deputies.Check out my interview with Cliff Yates!https://www.buzzsprout.com/1595839/10304614Check out Field Training (Brew City Blues Book 1)!!Enjoy the Cops and Writers book series.Please visit the Cops and Writers website.  Do you enjoy gritty, action-packed real-life police dramas to get your fill of blood, heartache, and cop humor, and maybe even a little romance?I have partnered up with Michael Anderle and we have released a new crime fiction series called “Brew City Blues.” If you're a fan of Hill Street Blues, Southland, or Bosch you're going to love Brew City Blues! Brew City Blues is now live! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BLR7FX27 Only for Cops and Writers Podcast listeners! Get 50% off the audiobook version of the F.B.I. K-9 thriller, Avenging Adam by Jodi Burnett. Use code, https://jodi-burnett.com/copsandwriters/Avenging Adam Audiobook by Jodi Burnett Get 50% off Avenging Adam audiobook with this link! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Never forget. This is the twenty-second anniversary of 9/11. In this special episode, CIA Shadow Warrior Ric Prado talks about escaping Cuba under Fidel Castro, and joining the CIA as a contract paramilitary officer before getting the chance to join full-time as a case officer. He was part of Alec Station at CIA—the task force hunting the world's most wanted terrorist. A riveting account of operating in the shadows to defend and protect America. Get Ric's book here - “Black Ops - The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior”. Join us at Patreon.com/gameofcrimes for great content you won't hear anywhere else Donate at paypal.me/gameofcrimes or go to paypal.com and use our email: gameofcrimespodcast@gmail.com Go to GameOfCrimesPodcast.com for more info and merch Follow us on... Twitter Facebook Instagram

Never forget. This is the twenty-second anniversary of 9/11. In this special episode, CIA Shadow Warrior Ric Prado talks about escaping Cuba under Fidel Castro, and joining the CIA as a contract paramilitary officer before getting the chance to join full-time as a case officer. He was part of Alec Station at CIA—the task force hunting the world's most wanted terrorist. A riveting account of operating in the shadows to defend and protect America. Get Ric's book here - “Black Ops - The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior”. Join us at Patreon.com/gameofcrimes for great content you won't hear anywhere else Donate at paypal.me/gameofcrimes or go to paypal.com and use our email: gameofcrimespodcast@gmail.com Go to GameOfCrimesPodcast.com for more info and merch Follow us on... Twitter Facebook Instagram

For more coverage on the issues that matter to you, visit www.WMAL.com, download the WMAL app or tune in live on WMAL-FM 105.9 FM from 5-9 AM ET.  To join the conversation, check us out on Twitter: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor,  @Jgunlock,  @patricepinkfile and @heatherhunterdc. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For more coverage on the issues that matter to you, visit www.WMAL.com, download the WMAL app or tune in live on WMAL-FM 105.9 FM from 5-9 AM ET.  To join the conversation, check us out on Twitter: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor,  @Jgunlock,  @patricepinkfile and @heatherhunterdc. See 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/EyewitnessPodThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5351305/advertisement

In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Ric Prado, a former PJ and CIA agent. An accomplished New York Times bestselling author, his book "Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior" has sold over 75,000 units. With appearances in over 120 interviews, including FOX News, Ric's stories have captivated audiences. Today, we're honored to offer Ric the chance to provide mentorship for those interested in a life of adventure and meaning. 

For today's episode I sit down with one of the greatest shadow warriors of our time: Ric Prado. We discuss Ric's career with the CIA and of course watches. Here is an excerpt from Ric's Bio: "Enrique "Ric" Prado is a paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and special/clandestine operations specialist, with a focus on international training operations and programs. Mr. Prado is a twenty-four year veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency where he served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts. He was Deputy Chief of Station and "Plank Owner" of the original Bin Ladin Task Force/Issues Station under Senior Analyst, Michael Scheuer, as well as Chief of Station in a hostile Muslim country. He also served as Chief of Operations in the CIA's Counterterrorist Center (CTC) during the September 11th attacks, where Mr. Prado helped coordinate CIA/CTC's special operations (SPECOPS) activities with the National Security Council and FBI, as well as with elite U.S. military representatives from Delta Force and SEAL-Team Six, then detailed to CTC/CIA. He retired as Senior Intel Service-2 (SIS-2, Major General equivalent at CIA)." To find out more about Ric or to purchase his terrific book "Black Ops" check out the links below: Ric's Website: https://ricprado.com/ Ric's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prado_ric/ Ric's Twitter: https://twitter.com/ricprado2?lang=en If you or someone you know wants to be on the show or if you have any questions or feedback please contact me at: https://www.instagram.com/ricoswatchespodcast/ or  e-mail: ricoswatchespodcast@gmail.com      Thank you!    Eric

A conversation with Ric Prado, the highest-ranking covert warrior to lift the veil of secrecy and offer a glimpse into the shadow wars that America has fought since the Vietnam Era. Black Ops is the story of Ric's legendary career that spanned two eras, the Cold War and the Age of Terrorism. Operating in the shadows, Ric and his fellow CIA officers fought a little-seen and virtually unknown war to keep the USA safe from those who would do it harm. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/robert-child/support

Ric Prado, aughot of "Black Ops, The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior" is Phillips guest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the covert world of intelligence and espionage, where shadows merge with reality, there exists a select group of individuals who operate on the razor's edge between life and death. Among them is a man named Ric Prado, AKA the "Shadow Warrior."Ric's story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unyielding pursuit of justice in the face of adversity. A true warrior with a heart of steel, Ric has spent his entire life on the frontlines of some of the most dangerous and classified missions the world has ever seen. His esteemed career spans over three decades, defined by his unwavering commitment to national security and counterterrorism. From his early years as a military officer to his exceptional service in the CIA, Ric's expertise in counterterrorism and intel operations is unparalleled.TIMESTAMPS:0:03:09 - Impact of the Cuban Revolution on Private Businesses and Education 0:05:38 - Operation Peter Pan and Ric's journey to the US 0:10:46 - Transition from an Orphanage to Hialeah, FL 0:12:34 - From High School Troublemaker to Elite Pararescueman 0:14:47 - A Professional Diver's Journey to Becoming a Pararescueman and Joining the Central Intelligence Agency 0:16:26 - CIA Recruitment and President Reagan's Latin American Policy 0:22:27 - Ric's Journey from Miami to Honduras and Beyond 0:29:09 - Entry into the Counterterrorist Center 0:31:08 - Plank Owner of the Bin Laden Task Force 0:34:35 - Billy Waugh: Legendary Green Beret and CIA Paramilitary Operations Officer 0:36:10 - Ric's Experiences in North Africa and Korea with the Bin Laden Task Force 0:40:38 - The Mental and Physical Fortitude Required for High-Risk Missions 0:42:21 - Recounting Near-Death Experiences 0:46:07 - CIA Operations Officer's Dedication to the Mission 0:47:37 - Unwavering Love of Country: The Challenges of Counterterrorism in the 21st Century 0:52:31 - Private Military Contractors and the Rise of ISIS 0:56:31 - Blackwater's Role in Saving the Polish Ambassador's Life 0:57:44 - The Use of Private Military Contractors in the Ukraine Conflict 1:02:06 - Cybersecurity and His New Book "Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior 1:07:53 - The Benefits of Responsible Training 1:14:00 - The Proper Usage of Handguns for Effective SecuritySYMLINKSLinkedInRic Prado - Black OpsBlack Ops: Life of a CIA Shadow WarriorOperation Peter PanCofer BlackBilly WaughBuzzy KrongardErik PrinceBlackwaterFour BranchesDRINK INSTRUCTION4 BRANCHES BOURBONFounder's BlendPour 2 oz of Bourbon into a whiskey glass. Swirl, smell the aromas, take small sip, savor the flavors, swallow and then exhale.Enjoy slowly.INTERVIEWERSChris GlandenDoug GotayEPISODE SPONSORN/ACONNECT WITH USBecome a SponsorSupport us on PatreonFollow us on LinkedInTweet us at @BarCodeSecurityEmail us at info@barcodesecurity.com

Ric Prado is a Cuban born clandestine CIA paramilitary operations specialist who worked in the Central Intelligence Agency for nearly 3 decades. His service included 36 months in Central American jungles of Honduras as the first CIA officer living in the anti-Sandinista "Contra" camps. EPISODE LINKS https://amzn.to/3MO17Sd https://ricprado.com FOLLOW DANNY JONES https://www.instagram.com/jonesdanny https://twitter.com/jonesdanny JOIN OUR KULT: https://bit.ly/koncretepatreon OUTLINE 0:00 - Introduction 2:36 - Ric's view of CIA 5:40 - Growing up inside the Cuban Revolution 13:54 - Miami 17:56 - Being “proud” to commit violence / Joining Pararescue 30:12 - Cuba's relationship with the United States 33:46 - Che Guevara 37:12 - Felix Rodriguez, Kiki Camarena, & Mexican Cartels 47:55 - First job at CIA: Training Contras in Nicaragua 59:49 - The Sandinistas 1:05:40 - Underwater bomb operation 1:12:45 - Kidnapping & rendering 2 rogue commandos 1:21:17 - Argentina's corruption 1:26:21 - Failed bombing mission 1:37:29 - Spy school 1:46:17 - Espionage in Costa Rica 1:51:43 - How Iran-Contra was exposed 1:58:54 - Hunting a Maoist dictator in South America 2:12:58 - South & North Korea 2:22:50 - Working on the Bin Laden task force (Alec Station) 2:26:56 - #1 most legendary CIA Black Ops soldier: Billy Waugh 2:28:49 - CIA vs FBI leading up to 9 1 1 2:35:00 - How Billy Waugh spied on Bin Laden 2:43:18 - Reliving 9 1 1 2:58:34 - Ric's worldview today 3:03:07 - Russia & China & Nuclear weapons

Ric Prado's life and historic career seems like something that was ripped right out of a Tom Clancy Novel. From escaping Communism as a young boy to being recruited by the CIA to help fight the spread Communism in Central America. Ric was at the Tip of the Spear at some of the most Dangerous times in History. Join us, as we discuss Ric's life as a CIA Shadow Warrior.Get Ric's book today by clicking the link below!BLACK OPS: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior If you love what we do and want to support the cause, don't forget to LIKE, SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE! Oh by the way, we just launched our own magazine click the link below to get the first issue for FREE! The DEBRIEF Vol. 1Want to help us grow? Buy us a coffee by clicking the link below! Adult content warning Nonstandard.org is dedicated to providing the veteran and 1st responder communities with new and unconventional methods of healing. Head on over to nonstandard.org today and sign up for a free ice barrel today!Support the show

Former CIA Operative Ric Prado discusses his new book, ‘Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior' and the recent reports of the politicization of the CIA. Prado discusses the ‘major heartburn' he feels towards the, now disproven, letter sent before the 2020 election from 51 senior intelligence officials calling reports of the Hunter Biden laptop, Russian disinformation. Prado comments, that actions like this are “professionally unethical,” and goes against the CIA's longstanding policy and motto of being apolitical. Prado says this is one of the first things he was taught in spy school, that the Agency does “not do politics, we collect intelligence off shores by any method and we do covert actions.” Saying, “we do not do policy, we do not do politics.“ Commenting, “I think it is professionally unethical to go out and use your knowledge and your influence, which turns out to be a falsehood.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's Zero Limits Podcast I chat with Ric Prado retired CIA Paramilitary Operations Officer. Ric witnessed a firefight at seven in Cuba during Fidel Castro's revolution. After his family fled, they relocated to Miami. Prado would go on to serve as an elite Pararescuemen in the Airforce and spent 24 years at the CIA, retiring at the rank of Senior Intel Service-2, the Major General equivalent at the Agency. He was the Deputy Chief of Station of the original Bin Laden Task Force and later served as the head of Korean Operations for the CIA. We discussed Castro and Che Guevara, his time in Nicaragua, countering terrorism in the Philippines, and tracking Bin Laden. His new New York Times bestselling memoir Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Officer takes a deep dive into a truly exceptional career filled with assassins, terrorists, spies and revolutionaries. Prado's memoir highlights not only the complexities of America's shadow wars, but the extreme courage, creativity and perseverance it takes to execute such missions inside the most demanding and hostile environments.You can learn more about Ric Prado at ricprado.com.Support the show - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=9LG48GC49TW38Website - www.zerolimitspodcast.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/zero.limits.podcast/?hl=en

Note: This episode originally aired in April 2022. Today's guest is legendary CIA paramilitary and operations officer Enrique “Ric” Prado. Ric is a retired CIA operations officer who specialized in paramilitary, counter-terrorism and special/clandestine operations. Escaping Cuba as a child amidst the violence of Castro's Cuban Revolution, he would go on to retire as the CIA equivalent of a two-star general after serving for twenty-four years in the nation's premier intelligence service which included 36 months as the first CIA officer to live in the anti-Sandinista “Contra” camps and later as Deputy Chief of Station of the original Bin Laden Task Force. His new New York Times bestselling memoir Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Officer takes a deep dive into a truly exceptional career filled with assassins, terrorists, spies and revolutionaries. Prado's memoir highlights not only the complexities of America's shadow wars, but the extreme courage, creativity and perseverance it takes to execute such missions inside the most demanding and hostile environments. You can learn more about Ric Prado at ricprado.com Sponsors: Navy Federal Credit Union: Today's episode is presented by Navy Federal Credit Union. Learn more about them at navyfederal.org Protekt: Visit protekt.com/dangerclose to get 25% off while supplies last. Black Rifle Coffee Company: Today's episode is also brought to you by Black Rifle. Purchase at http://www.blackriflecoffee.com/dangerclose and use code: dangerclose20 at checkout for 20% off your purchase and your first coffee club order! SIG: This episode is sponsored by SIG Sauer. You can learn more about SIG here. FEATURED GEAR Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior SIG P210 Carry Danger Close is an IRONCLAD Original.

Born in Cuba, Prado and his family were caught in the midst of the Castro Revolution, and fledtheir war-torn home for a better life in the U.S. Fifty years after that daring escape, he retiredfrom the CIA as the agency's equivalent of a Two-Star General. During his two-and-a-halfdecade career, he was one of the agency's best and most dedicated Black Ops specialists.Early in his career he served as a paramilitary officer in the agency's elite Special ActivitiesGroup, where he fought alongside the Contras in the U.S.'s clandestine war against Nicaragua'sSandinistas. Through his heroism and dedicated service there, he was awarded the CIA'sIntelligence Medal of Merit. As soon as he returned stateside, however, he faced the politicalfiring squad of the Iran-Contra Scandal.His career took him around the globe in duty stations in Central and South America as well asthe Philippines. Following those posts, Prado joined the highest echelons of the CIAheadquarters in Langley, VA. Toward the end of 1995, Prado was appointed Deputy Chief ofStation and co-founding member of the Bin Laden Task Force, followed by three years as headof Korean Operations. It was at that point that he took on one of the most dangerous missions ofhis career, re-establishing a once-abandoned CIA station inside a hostile nation long sinceconsidered a front line of the fight against Islamic terrorism. Prado carried out covert operationsand developed assets that proved pivotal in the coming War on Terror. As Chief of Operationsfor the CIA's Counterterrorist Center, he was one of the architects of the agency's covert war todestroy Al Qaeda in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.

Ric is spell-binding in this INSIDER account of the CIA from a lifelong Black Ops officer. Black Ops guys rarely talk about their work, or most importantly, are given a chance to. This is a FIRST! With agency approval Ric tells his whole career, explaining how he and others have guarded America's safety from the shadows - highlighted by operations globally (Central America, Asia, Middle East), dealing with international terrorism and Communist regimes. Ric still trains our forces and law enforcement officials as well. A MUST listen!

Guest host Ian Punnett and retired CIA operative Ric Prado discuss his career in military intelligence and counterterrorism, how Hollywood often misrepresents the boring parts of being a spy, and how the agency honors agents who are killed in action.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GRP 167-Black Ops: The Story Of A Cuban Refugees Journey Into The Upper Ranks of the Central Intelligence Agency. Joining me for this week's podcast is Ric Prado. Ric witnessed a firefight at seven in Cuba during Fidel Castro's revolution. After his family fled, they relocated to Miami. Prado would go on to serve as an elite Pararescuemen in the Airforce and spent 24 years at the CIA, retiring at the rank of Senior Intel Service-2, the Major General equivalent at the Agency. He was the Deputy Chief of Station of the original Bin Laden Task Force and later served as the head of Korean Operations for the CIA. We discussed Castro and Che Guevara, his time in Nicaragua, countering terrorism in the Philipines, and tracking Bin Laden. Tune in. Main Takeaways Witnessing a firefight between government forces and Castros rebels as a young kid in Cuba Fleeing Cuba under the Castro regime Joining the Airforce as a Pararescuemen Working as a paramilitary officer in Nicaragua with the Contra's Working on the Bin Laden task force in the mid-'90s Follow Ric Prado: www.ricprado.com Connect With John Hendricks www.globalrecon.net www.instagram.com/igrecon Music provided by Caspian: www.caspian.band --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/globalrecon/support

Summary Enrique “Ric” Prado (LinkedIn) joins Andrew (Twitter; LinkedIn) to discuss his new memoir “Black Ops.” One of the most renowned CIA officers of his generation tells his story. Book You can buy Ric's book, Black Ops, and support the International Spy Museum's mission here. What You'll Learn Intelligence His time as CIA Counterterrorist Chief of Operations which included 9/11 His career battling communist insurgents and Islamic terrorists on multiple continents His experience living in “Contra” camps during the Nicaraguan Revolution His time as Dep. Chief of Station and co-founding member of the Bin Laden Task Force Reflections Conquering your emotions to stay focused in a crisis His journey fleeing the Cuban Revolution as a young boy to CIA via USAF Pararescue And much, much more… Episode Notes Ric Prado spent twenty-four-years in the CIA – and what a twenty-four years it was. His first 36 months were in the jungles of Central America as the first CIA officer to live among the “Contras,” including a period with the Miskito Native people; indeed, the photos he took ending up on the desk of CIA Director Bill Casey. So, what was it like at the pointy end of the Reagan Doctrine's anti-communist spear, or as CIA Counterterrorist Center Chief of Ops during 9/11? To find out, and to hear more about Ric's storied career, Andrew sat down with him for this week's episode. One of the meanings of the noun “legend” is “a story coming down from the past.” Many people who were in the business at the CIA and elsewhere will have heard the stories that come down from the past re Enrique “Ric” Prado, but now we all have a chance to hear Ric set the record straight in his own words.  And… If Ric's communist uncle hadn't alerted the family that his school intended to send him off to the Soviet Union as a promising student for further education…if he hadn't taken an Oceanography class at Miami Dade College and met someone who led him to USAF Pararescue…if he hadn't been tipped off that he was to be killed in a Contra camp during the night and extricated himself from the situation…as Bob Dylan said, summing up so much of the human condition, “one more time, for a simple twist of fate.” Quote of the Week "The wiring was there and the mentoring from my dad…then the trip to the orphanage. And then definitely when I got into pararescue…being one of our special operations forces, the training is very, very intense…And making it through SERE school, making it through mountain climbing school. There's a certain level of conquering your emotions that you have to do…But I think that the most important thing was that I believed in what I was doing." – Ric Prado Resources SpyCast Episodes In the CT Center on 9/11, C. Storer A Life in the CIA, Hank Crumpton Interview with Cofer Black CT, Nicholas Rasmussen CT Strategy: P. Bergen & C. Costa Rethinking CT: J. Blazakis Books The Reagan Doctrine, J. Scott (DUP, 1996)  The Real Contra War, T. Brown (UOP, 2001) Insurgency to Stability, “The Philippines,” Rabasa et al., (RAND, 2011) Shining Path's Politics of War, C. Degregori (UWP, 2012) Red Revolution: Philippine Guerillas, G. Jones (Routeledge, 2019) The Shining Path, Starn & Serna (Norton, 2019) US Relations with Latin America (Five Books) Articles “Shining Path Leader Dead,” BBC (2021) “Nicaragua Veers to Dictatorship,” J. Cordoba, WSJ (2021) Documentaries Nicaragua Was Our Home (L. Shapiro, 1985) Ballad of the Little Soldier (W. Herzog, 1985) Primary Sources President Carter to Somoza (Brown, 1979) Reagan Covert Ops. Nicaragua (NSA, 1981) US Aid to Nicaragua (1982) Reagan Covert Ops. Nicaragua (Brown, 1983) Goldwater to Casey, “I'm Pissed Off” (Brown, 1984) Reagan State Of The Union (APP, 1985) Reagan Address Nicaragua (ReaganLib, 1986) Contras Lost Congress (WaPo, 1986) 25 Years of the NPA (Hartford, 1994)  Wildcard Resource The Clash, Sandanista (Album, 1980)

Sebastian talks to former CIA Senior Operations Officer Ric Prado about what makes a true man, which forces are attacking masculinity in America today, and more.Support the show: https://www.sebgorka.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ric and Brandon talk about Ric's life escaping from Cuba, his career in the CIA, the book and a lot of other things not in the book that you''' enjoy.About Ric PradoEnrique “Ric” Prado is a paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and special/clandestine operations specialist, with a focus on international training operations and programs.  Mr. Prado is a twenty-four year veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency where he served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts.  He was Deputy Chief of Station and “Plank Owner” of the original Bin Ladin Task Force/Issues Station under Senior Analyst, Michael Scheuer, as well as Chief of Station in a hostile Muslim country.   He also served as Chief of Operations in the CIA's Counterterrorist Center (CTC) during the September 11th attacks, where Mr. Prado coordinated CIA/CTC's special operations (SPECOPS) activities with the National Security Council and FBI, as well as with elite U.S. military representatives from Delta Force and SEAL-Team Six, then detailed to CTC/CIA. Mr. Prado spent his first ten years at CIA as a paramilitary officer in Special Operations Group/Special Activities Division (SOG/SAD) which is CIA's “special operations force,” including 36 months of service in Central America as the first CIA officer living in the anti-Sandinista “Contra” camps, running counter-terrorism operations in Peru and the Philippines. Mr. Prado is now semi-retired but enjoys serving the “SPECOPS” Community as Subject Matter Expert (SME) at the SWCS' ASOTC (Advanced Special Operations and Techniques Course) and ASOT Managers Course, Dragon Warrior, Emerald Warrior, among others.CONNECT WITH USSign up for our NewsletterOver 17,200 listeners and countinghttps://edge.ck.page/bea5b3fda6EPISODE LINKS:Ric Prado's Book: Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow WarriorBest price on Amazon here:https://amzn.to/3XM3NTyEDGE PODCAST INFO:Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/edge/id1522407349Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7a3WcnSn9PlvwwF5hn4p4SWebsitehttps://MyEDGEPodcast.comOther Great Podcasts From the Best Podcasts NetworkOn Business Podcasthttps://OnBusinessPodcast.comMARKETING Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marketing/id1653276478 Other Great Podcasts From the Best Podcasts NetworkOn Business Podcast On Business Podcast is an unscripted, brutally honest, candid, sometimes ugly, conversation about running businesses & successful companies, for aspiring entrepreneurs, current startups, or experienced business owners looking to elevate their business. https://OnBusinessPodcast.comMARKETING PodcastThe MARKETING podcast brings you marketing science, case studies that reveal successful marketing techniques and teach strategic marketing analysis where we model the data and turn it into financial forecasts so you have predictable revenue.Brandon can't promise you instant marketing success after each episode. But...he guarantees that you will find each MARKETING episode always reliable, always actionable, and always useful for your marketing efforts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marketing/id1653276478

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Enrique “Ric” Prado, author of New York Times bestselling book “Black Ops, The Life of a Shadow Warrior”. Ric, who was born to a middle class family in Cuba, was ten years old when his family sent him alone to the United States to save him from the abuses of Fidel Castro's Marxist regime. Ric's parents, whose property and business had been confiscated by that regime, would not be able to join their son in the US for eights long months, during which time Ric lived in a Colorado orphanage. Once reunited with his parents, he and his family quickly embraced the US as their new home, settling in Florida. Ric will be sharing many exciting stories about his life and twenty four year career with the CIA (Central Intelligence Agency), where he operated in the shadows at various locations in the world during the Cold War Era and the Age of Terrorism. Ric eventually achieved the rank of CIA Counterterrorist Chief of Operations, the CIA equivalent of a two star general. This is Ric's story of incredible dedication, patriotism and courage. Photo(s) Courtesy of Ric Prado and YHYS Podcast Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man Your History Your Story links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast Black Ops book on Amazon (our affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3CrXPPF Time Stamps 2:20 Ric's early years in Cuba, parent's coffee roasting business 6:00 Castro's regime moves in and family moves to Havana 11:20 Ric leaves Cuba with the Peter Pan program at age 10, memories of leaving parents at airport, Orphanage in Pueblo, CO, Reunited with parents after eight months. 19:00 Family settles in Florida, moving forward in the US, Ric's education and becoming citizens of the US. 23:45 High School days and getting in the "wrong crowd", hippie story & the American Flag 31:30 Paramedic / EMT / Fire and Rescue training, Applying to the CIA. 38:30 What does Black Ops mean?, Keeping his cover and assignments all over the world, Spy school. 47:00 Scary moments & staying alert, being aware of your surroundings. 51:00 Shift from communism to terrorism, Bin Laden task force, 9/11 and witnessing the planes hitting the WTC towers. 1h 7m End of Ric's career with the CIA, retirement and reflection. Why Ric wrote Black Ops, 139 stars on wall of fallen CIA agents.

Of all of the Central Intelligence Agency's activities, paramilitary operations might remain the least understood. This, in part, is both a cause and a consequence of inaccurate portrayals of such work in prominent movies; it's also because fewer memoirs come from the CIA's Special Activities Division than from traditional human intelligence collectors and from analysts.David Priess chatted with former CIA officer Ric Prado about the fiction and the reality of CIA paramilitary operations, including stories Ric tells in his book, “Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior.” They spoke about what Hollywood gets wrong about intelligence work, Ric's escape as a child from Castro's Cuba, his path to a CIA career, differences between paramilitary operations and intelligence collection, his years of work with the Contras in Central America, the Counterterrorist Center (CTC) at CIA before and on 9/11, the work ethic in CTC after 9/11, why his book has substantial chunks of redacted text, and who he thinks played the best James Bond.Chatter is a production of Lawfare and Goat Rodeo. This episode was produced by David Priess with Cara Shillenn of Goat Rodeo, with additional editing by Cara Shillenn. Podcast theme by David Priess, featuring music created using Groovepad.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Of all of the Central Intelligence Agency's activities, paramilitary operations might remain the least understood. This, in part, is both a cause and a consequence of inaccurate portrayals of such work in prominent movies; it's also because fewer memoirs come from the CIA's Special Activities Division than from traditional human intelligence collectors and from analysts. David Priess chatted with former CIA officer Ric Prado about the fiction and the reality of CIA paramilitary operations, including stories Ric tells in his book Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior. They spoke about what Hollywood gets wrong about intelligence work, Ric's escape as a child from Castro's Cuba, his path to a CIA career, differences between paramilitary operations and intelligence collection, his years of work with the Contras in Central America, the Counterterrorist Center (CTC) at CIA before and on 9/11, the work ethic in CTC after 9/11, why his book has substantial chunks of redacted text, and who he thinks played the best James Bond.Chatter is a production of Lawfare and Goat Rodeo. This episode was produced by David Priess with Cara Shillenn of Goat Rodeo, with additional editing by Cara Shillenn. Podcast theme by David Priess, featuring music created using Groovepad. Among the works mentioned in this episode:The book Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior by Ric PradoThe film ArgoThe film Three Days of the CondorThe Jason Bourne filmsThe film True LiesThe Mission Impossible filmsThe James Bond films Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric Prado talks about his life and career in CIA. We chat about his time in Nicaragua, Bin Laden, and misconceptions about CIA.sponsor: www.ryanraysr.com/hostingshow notes: https://www.ryanraysr.com/2022/09/02/99-the-life-of-a-shadow-warrior-with-ric-prado

Join Robert Child for a conversation with author and former CIA Counter Terrorist Chief of Operations Ric Prado. Ric is a retired CIA operations officer specializing in paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and covert operations. Escaping Cuba as a child amidst the violence of Castro's Cuban Revolution, he would retire as the CIA's equivalent of a two-star general after a 24-year career. His book is called Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior. Watch our new military history documentary, Weather and Warfare, FREE on Tubi the streaming service from Fox. LINK https://tubitv.com/movies/680635/weather-and-warfare-millennia-to-modern-time Sign up for our twice monthly email Newsletter SOCIAL: YouTube Twitter Facebook Website --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/robert-child/support

For this One on One, Sebastian talks to Enrique "Ric" Prado, author of "Black Ops," to talk about his life killing terrorists for the CIASupport the show: https://www.sebgorka.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Enrique "Ric" Prado, best-selling author, Black Ops https://amzn.to/3Rgdvue is a paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and special/clandestine operations specialist, with a focus on international training operations and programs. Mr. Prado is a twenty-four year veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency where he served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts. He was Deputy Chief of Station and "Plank Owner" of the original Bin Ladin Task Force/Issues Station under Senior Analyst, Michael Scheuer, as well as Chief of Station in a hostile Muslim country. He also served as Chief of Operations in the CIA's Counterterrorist Center (CTC) during the September 11th attacks, where Mr. Prado helped coordinate CIA/CTC's special operations (SPECOPS) activities with the National Security Council and FBI, as well as with elite U.S. military representatives from Delta Force and SEAL-Team Six, then detailed to CTC/CIA. He retired as Senior Intel Service-2 (SIS-2, Major General equivalent at CIA). Mr. Prado spent his first ten years at CIA as a paramilitary officer in Special Operations Group/Special Activities Division (SOG/SAD, Ground Branch) which is CIA's "special operations force." His service included 36 months in Central America jungles as the first CIA officer living in the anti-Sandinista "Contra" camps. Subsequently running counter-terrorism/insurgency operations in Peru and in the Philippines. Other key positions included head of the CIA's Korean Operations and Chief of CIA Liaison in Seoul, ROK. He is fluent in his native Spanish and once held a 2+ level in Japanese. Mr. Prado is now co-owner of Camp X, Special Operations Lone Operator Training Group and continues his service training and supporting the "SPECOPS" Community as Subject Matter Expert (SME ) at the SWCS' ASOT (Advanced Special Operations and Techniques) and ASOT Managers Course, Dragon Warrior, Emerald Warrior, among others. The Legend Enrique "Ric" Prado ( What an honor) Website: https://ricprado.com/ New York Times Best Seller, Amazon Best Seller BLACK OPS ( Awesome book ) https://amzn.to/3Rgdvue IG: https://www.instagram.com/prado_ric/ This episode is sponsored by: https://Fijiwater.com/mscs $5 off free shipping Unleash The Beast With Monster Energy: https://www.monsterenergy.com/us/mscs See if any of your passwords have been compromised. If you think it can't happen to you, know that American consumers lost $56 billion due to identity theft scams in 2020: Try 14 days for free: https://aura.com/MSCS Thank you to Aura for sponsoring this video

Try our sponsor Aura for 14 days free - https://aura.com/pbd to see how many times your personal information was found on the dark web today. PBD Podcast Episode 166. In this episode, Patrick Bet-David is joined by Roger Stone, Ric Prado, and Adam Sosnick. To donate to the Stone Family Support Fund: https://bit.ly/3OGNpyk To purchase Ric Prado's book, Black Ops: https://amzn.to/3bBHL2w For all things Ric Prado: https://bit.ly/3OD1lJU Text: PODCAST to 310.340.1132 to get added to the distribution list About Roger: Roger Jason Stone is an American conservative political consultant and lobbyist. Since the 1970s, Stone has worked on the campaigns of Republican politicians, including Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Jack Kemp, Bob Dole, George W. Bush, and Donald Trump. About Ric: Enrique "Ric" Prado is a paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and special/clandestine operations specialist, with a focus on international training operations and programs. Mr. Prado is a twenty-four-year veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency where he served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts. He was Deputy Chief of Station and "Plank Owner" of the original Bin Ladin Task Force/Issues Station under Senior Analyst, Michael Scheuer, as well as Chief of Station in a hostile Muslim country. Patrick Bet-David is the founder and CEO of Valuetainment Media. He is the author of the #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller Your Next Five Moves (Simon & Schuster) and a father of 2 boys and 2 girls. He currently resides in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. To reach the Valuetainment team you can email: booking@valuetainment.com --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/pbdpodcast/support

Welcome back to part two of my interview with former Operations Officer of the CIA, Ric Prado!My guest on the show today is New York Times Bestselling Author and retired Operations Officer of the Central Intelligence Agency Enrique “Ric” Prado. Mr. Prado is a twenty-four-year veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency where he served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts. Mr. Prado spent his first ten years at CIA as a paramilitary officer in Special Operations Group/Special Activities Division (SOG/SAD, Ground Branch), the CIA's “special operations force.” His service included 36 months in Central American jungles as the first CIA officer living in the anti-Sandinista “Contra” camps. Subsequently running counterterrorism/insurgency operations in Latin America and in the Philippines.  Cuban born and immigrating solo to the US at 10 - which landed him in an orphanage in Pueblo, Colorado - “Ric” inherited early on a “debt of honor” to the USA. Thus, he volunteered for military service at 20. Ric joined the US Air Force elite Pararescue Teams P.J.'s. In today's episode we discuss:·      Tradecraft and situational awareness. How average citizens can stay safe following some basic concepts. ·      Coopers Scale.·      How to not get caught by the enemy, and what to do if you are.·      Pre and post 9/11 and how it changed our nation and how the intelligence community conducted their business. ·      Communication between the FBI and CIA.·      Why Ric wrote the book Black Ops and how it has changed him and others. ·      Why Ric's book, Black Ops should be required reading for high school and college students today.·      Our biggest threats to the United States today.·      Why socialism is the mask of communism. All of this and more on today's episode of the Cops and Writers podcast.Check out Part One of my interview with Ric! Visit Ric Prado's website to learn more about him and his book, Black Ops. Enjoy the Cops and Writer's book series.Please visit the Cops and Writers website.If you have a question for the sarge, hit him up at his email.Come join the fun at the Cops and Writers Facebook groupIf you are a new author and are wondering how to maximize sales or you are a published author who wants to elevate your author career, check out Self Publishing 101 and Mark Dawson's Ads for Authors! Support the show

A memoir by the highest-ranking covert warrior to lift the veil of secrecy and offer a glimpse into the shadow wars that America has fought since the Vietnam Era. Enrique Prado found himself in his first firefight at age seven. The son of a middle-class Cuban family caught in the midst of the Castro Revolution, his family fled their war-torn home for the hope of a better life in America. Fifty years later, the Cuban refugee retired from the Central Intelligence Agency as the CIA equivalent of a two-star general. Black Ops is the story of Ric's legendary career that spanned two eras, the Cold War and the Age of Terrorism. Operating in the shadows, Ric and his fellow CIA officers fought a little-seen and virtually unknown war to keep USA safe from those who would do it harm. After duty stations in Central, South America, and the Philippines, Black Ops follows Ric into the highest echelons of the CIA's headquarters at Langley, Virginia. In late 1995, he became Deputy Chief of Station and co-founding member of the Bin Laden Task Force. Three years later, after serving as head of Korean Operations, Ric took on one of the most dangerous missions of his career: to re-establish a once-abandoned CIA station inside a hostile nation long since considered a front line of the fight against Islamic terrorism. He and his team carried out covert operations and developed assets that proved pivotal in the coming War on Terror. A harrowing memoir of life in the shadowy world of assassins, terrorists, spies and revolutionaries, Black Ops is a testament to the courage, creativity and dedication of the Agency's Special Activities Group and its elite shadow warriors. "Ric Prado is an American original, a shadow warrior whose combat and street skills actually live up to Hollywood's spy movie fantasies. Any story of his life and his C.I.A. career will stand out in the genre of such memoirs and biographies, not only because of Ric's outsized experiences, but because his adventurous work included some of the most important covert actions in recent Agency history." -Steve Coll, New York Times bestselling author of GHOST WARS and DIRECTORATE S and winner of the Pulitzer Prize

A memoir by the highest-ranking covert warrior to lift the veil of secrecy and offer a glimpse into the shadow wars that America has fought since the Vietnam Era. Enrique Prado found himself in his first firefight at age seven. The son of a middle-class Cuban family caught in the midst of the Castro Revolution, his family fled their war-torn home for the hope of a better life in America. Fifty years later, the Cuban refugee retired from the Central Intelligence Agency as the CIA equivalent of a two-star general. Black Ops is the story of Ric's legendary career that spanned two eras, the Cold War and the Age of Terrorism. Operating in the shadows, Ric and his fellow CIA officers fought a little-seen and virtually unknown war to keep USA safe from those who would do it harm. After duty stations in Central, South America, and the Philippines, Black Ops follows Ric into the highest echelons of the CIA's headquarters at Langley, Virginia. In late 1995, he became Deputy Chief of Station and co-founding member of the Bin Laden Task Force. Three years later, after serving as head of Korean Operations, Ric took on one of the most dangerous missions of his career: to re-establish a once-abandoned CIA station inside a hostile nation long since considered a front line of the fight against Islamic terrorism. He and his team carried out covert operations and developed assets that proved pivotal in the coming War on Terror. A harrowing memoir of life in the shadowy world of assassins, terrorists, spies and revolutionaries, Black Ops is a testament to the courage, creativity and dedication of the Agency's Special Activities Group and its elite shadow warriors. "Ric Prado is an American original, a shadow warrior whose combat and street skills actually live up to Hollywood's spy movie fantasies. Any story of his life and his C.I.A. career will stand out in the genre of such memoirs and biographies, not only because of Ric's outsized experiences, but because his adventurous work included some of the most important covert actions in recent Agency history." -Steve Coll, New York Times bestselling author of GHOST WARS and DIRECTORATE S and winner of the Pulitzer Prize

A memoir by the highest-ranking covert warrior to lift the veil of secrecy and offer a glimpse into the shadow wars that America has fought since the Vietnam Era.Enrique Prado found himself in his first firefight at age seven. The son of a middle-class Cuban family caught in the midst of the Castro Revolution, his family fled their war-torn home for the hope of a better life in America. Fifty years later, the Cuban refugee retired from the Central Intelligence Agency as the CIA equivalent of a two-star general. Black Ops is the story of Ric's legendary career that spanned two eras, the Cold War and the Age of Terrorism. Operating in the shadows, Ric and his fellow CIA officers fought a little-seen and virtually unknown war to keep USA safe from those who would do it harm.After duty stations in Central, South America, and the Philippines, Black Ops follows Ric into the highest echelons of the CIA's headquarters at Langley, Virginia. In late 1995, he became Deputy Chief of Station and co-founding member of the Bin Laden Task Force. Three years later, after serving as head of Korean Operations, Ric took on one of the most dangerous missions of his career: to re-establish a once-abandoned CIA station inside a hostile nation long since considered a front line of the fight against Islamic terrorism. He and his team carried out covert operations and developed assets that proved pivotal in the coming War on Terror.A harrowing memoir of life in the shadowy world of assassins, terrorists, spies and revolutionaries, Black Ops is a testament to the courage, creativity and dedication of the Agency's Special Activities Group and its elite shadow warriors."Ric Prado is an American original, a shadow warrior whose combat and street skills actually live up to Hollywood's spy movie fantasies. Any story of his life and his C.I.A. career will stand out in the genre of such memoirs and biographies, not only because of Ric's outsized experiences, but because his adventurous work included some of the most important covert actions in recent Agency history." -Steve Coll, New York Times bestselling author of GHOST WARS and DIRECTORATE S and winner of the Pulitzer Prize

A memoir by the highest-ranking covert warrior to lift the veil of secrecy and offer a glimpse into the shadow wars that America has fought since the Vietnam Era. Enrique Prado found himself in his first firefight at age seven. The son of a middle-class Cuban family caught in the midst of the Castro Revolution, his family fled their war-torn home for the hope of a better life in America. Fifty years later, the Cuban refugee retired from the Central Intelligence Agency as the CIA equivalent of a two-star general. Black Ops is the story of Ric's legendary career that spanned two eras, the Cold War and the Age of Terrorism. Operating in the shadows, Ric and his fellow CIA officers fought a little-seen and virtually unknown war to keep USA safe from those who would do it harm. After duty stations in Central, South America, and the Philippines, Black Ops follows Ric into the highest echelons of the CIA's headquarters at Langley, Virginia. In late 1995, he became Deputy Chief of Station and co-founding member of the Bin Laden Task Force. Three years later, after serving as head of Korean Operations, Ric took on one of the most dangerous missions of his career: to re-establish a once-abandoned CIA station inside a hostile nation long since considered a front line of the fight against Islamic terrorism. He and his team carried out covert operations and developed assets that proved pivotal in the coming War on Terror. A harrowing memoir of life in the shadowy world of assassins, terrorists, spies and revolutionaries, Black Ops is a testament to the courage, creativity and dedication of the Agency's Special Activities Group and its elite shadow warriors. "Ric Prado is an American original, a shadow warrior whose combat and street skills actually live up to Hollywood's spy movie fantasies. Any story of his life and his C.I.A. career will stand out in the genre of such memoirs and biographies, not only because of Ric's outsized experiences, but because his adventurous work included some of the most important covert actions in recent Agency history." -Steve Coll, New York Times bestselling author of GHOST WARS and DIRECTORATE S and winner of the Pulitzer Prize

This week, Justin chats with Enrique "Ric" Prado, a retired case officer and Paramilitary operative of the CIA.  Ric is also the author of his memoir, Black Ops.  Ric dives into his career, from fleeing the Peter Pan Project and his home country of Cuba to serving in Nicaragua with the Contras, including past guest Mike Lima AKA Luis Moreno.  Soon after his time in Latin America and a few years in the Phillippines, Ric was contracted by the CIA to form the very task force that eventually took down Osama bin Laden. Outed by newspapers as CIA in 2009, Ric is the highest-ranking American covert operator to share his story publicly.An extended edition of this episode, featuring 26 minutes of additional interview content, is available now on Patreon.Check out Episode 34: Life as a Nicaraguan Contra with Luis Moreno for more on the Contras, the Sandinistas, and Nicaraguan counterrevolution.Connect with Ric:ricprado.comBuy his book, Black Ops:  The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior, here.https://www.amazon.com/Black-Ops-Life-Shadow-Warrior/dp/1250271843LinkedIn: Enrique (Ric) PradoConnect with Spycraft 101:Check out Justin's latest release, Covert Arms, here.spycraft101.comIG: @spycraft101Shop: spycraft-101.myshopify.comPatreon: Spycraft 101 Find Justin's first book, Spyshots: Volume One, here.Download the free eBook, The Clandestine Operative's Sidearm of Choice, here.Support the show

My guest on today's show was so interesting, his life story couldn't fit in just one episode! So, look for episode two of this interview to go live on June 12, 2022. My guest on the show today is New York Times Bestselling Author and retired Operations Officer of the Central Intelligence Agency Enrique “Ric” Prado. Mr. Prado is a twenty-four-year veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency where he served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts. Mr. Prado spent his first ten years at CIA as a paramilitary officer in Special Operations Group/Special Activities Division (SOG/SAD, Ground Branch), the CIA's “special operations force.” His service included 36 months in Central American jungles as the first CIA officer living in the anti-Sandinista “Contra” camps. Subsequently running counterterrorism/insurgency operations in Latin America and in the Philippines.  Cuban born and immigrating solo to the US at 10 - which landed him in an orphanage in Pueblo, Colorado - “Ric” inherited early on a “debt of honor” to the USA. Thus, he volunteered for military service at 20. Ric joined the US Air Force elite Pararescue Teams P.J.'s.  In today's episode we discuss:·      Why Ric carried the Walther PPK as a backup weapon, the iconic spy gun used by James Bond.·      The false portrayal of the Central Intelligence Agency spun by Hollywood common in movies and television.·      Common C.I.A. terms and vocabulary.·      Ric's early memories of Fidel Castro's forces invading and occupying Cuba.·      John F. Kennedy's betrayal of the people of Cuba and the failed Bay of Pigs invasion.· What life in Castro's Cuba was really like, including the government taking all your possessions, public lynchings, children encouraged to spy on their parents, and what a Castro neighborhood watch looked like. · Ric's escape from communist Cuba to the United States at age ten without his parents and landing in an orphanage in Pueblo, Colorado.· Ric's path to becoming a member of the Air Force's elite Pararescue Teams known as the P.J.'s, him being a firefighter/paramedic for Miami Dade Metro, and how those experiences helped him eventually become a C.I.A. Operations Officer. · Ric's first job with the C.I.A. as a contractor helping the Contras fight the communist Sandinistas in the jungles of Honduras. All of this and more on today's episode of the Cops and Writers podcast.Visit Ric Prado's website to learn more about him and his book, Black Ops. Enjoy the Cops and Writer's book series.Please visit the Cops and Writers website.If you have a question for the sarge, hit him up at his email.Come join the fun at the Cops and Writers Facebook groupIf you are a new author and are wondering how to maximize sales or you are a published author who wants to elevate your author career, check out Smart Passive Income PodcastWeekly interviews, strategy, and advice for building your online business the smart way.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

What is more dangerous? Hunting for unseen entities or hunting criminials in the CIA? Jay Wasley from Ghost Adventures tells us the chills and thrills of finding proof of the other side and Ric Prado gives the goods with Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Well, listeners, it's taken us a while but here it is: the first episode of our fourth season.We begin with Ric Prado, a former CIA officer who trained the Contras in Central America in the 1980s.For those of you who don't remember, the Contras were trying to overthrow the Sandinista regime in Nicaragua. America's support for the group eventually led to the Iran-Contra affair, a government scandal that nearly brought down the Reagan administration.For more on the Contras, go back and listen to season one's The Jumper. Eugene Hasenfus, who helped deliver arms to the Contras, describes parachuting from a burning plane and getting captured by Nicaraguan forces. We spent several years tracking down Hasenfus and getting him to tell his story.Also, our show now has a newsletter! Sign up for free to get bonus material after each episode, including photos, illustrations, and other content you won't find anywhere else. https://foreignpolicy.com/ispynewsletter/I Spy is produced by the podcast team at Foreign Policy, the premiere website for intelligent news and analysis from around the world. The best way to support the show—and keep those episodes coming—is by subscribing to Foreign Policy. Save 15% by going to https://foreignpolicy.com/subscribe/ and entering ISPY at checkout. Okay, enough verbiage. Enjoy the show. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In the early 1960s, more than 14,000 unaccompanied children, aged from 4 to 16 years old, were brought from Cuba to Miami as a part of an agreement between the U.S. State Department and Catholic Charities of Miami to help the children of those fighting against Fidel Castro's growing power and control in Cuba. Eventually, the agreement was expanded to include all Cuban families that wanted to flee from the regime. Enrique “Ric” Prado was one of these children, arriving in the U.S. at only 10 years old. Ric joins our show to share his firsthand account of seeing active conflict just outside his childhood home, how he arrived and settled in the United States, why and how he joined the CIA, and his experience as a covert operative in Central America during US operations in the Nicaraguan anti-revolution efforts in the early 1980s. To hear more about Ric Prado's journey and life as a CIA operative, be sure to check out his book, “Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior” Uncle Sam's Secret Sauce is hosted by Rafael Marrero, Founder and CEO of Rafael Marrero & Company, which helps small companies do business with the world's biggest customer: the U.S. Federal Government.

In this episode, we welcome Ric Prado to the show. Ric had a legendary 24-year career in the United States' Central Intelligence Agency. His career spanned two eras: The Cold War and the Age of Terrorism. Prado received the CIA Distinguished Career Intelligence Medal (highest award given upon retirement) and the George H. W. Bush Award for Excellence in Counterterrorism, among other awards. He is a paramilitary, counterterrorism, and special clandestine operations specialist, and served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts. When he left public service, Prado worked as an executive at a private military contractor where he built a specialized operations team. He is currently a co-owner of Camp-X Training, where he continues his service training and supporting the Spec Ops community, teaching Advanced Special Operations and Techniques among other essential skills. Also, he's the author of Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior. He's the first covert operator of major rank to pen a fully operational memoir in the history of the CIA. He retired as the equivalent of a 2-star general in the military. In this interview we discuss what it was like growing up in Cuba during the Revolution, how young Americans are romanced by Communism, how he and his family managed to get to America, growing up on the streets of Miami, how he found himself in the CIA, his service on the ground during the time of Iran Contra, his reaction to seeing the 9/11 attacks, how the US had the ability to easily kill Osama bin Laden in the 1990s but decided against it, and much more. Let's get into it… Episode notes and links HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Enrique Prado found himself in his first firefight at age seven. The son of a middle-class Cuban family caught in the midst of the Castro Revolution, his family fled their war-torn home for the hope of a better life in America. Fifty years later, the Cuban refugee retired from the Central Intelligence Agency as the CIA equivalent of a two-star general. Black Ops is the story of Ric's legendary career that spanned two eras, the Cold War and the Age of Terrorism. Operating in the shadows, Ric and his fellow CIA officers fought a little-seen and virtually unknown war to keep USA safe from those who would do it harm.After duty stations in Central, South America, and the Philippines, Black Ops follows Ric into the highest echelons of the CIA's headquarters at Langley, Virginia. In late 1995, he became Deputy Chief of Station and co-founding member of the Bin Laden Task Force. Three years later, after serving as head of Korean Operations, Ric took on one of the most dangerous missions of his career: to re-establish a once-abandoned CIA station inside a hostile nation long since considered a front line of the fight against Islamic terrorism. He and his team carried out covert operations and developed assets that proved pivotal in the coming War on Terror.A harrowing memoir of life in the shadowy world of assassins, terrorists, spies and revolutionaries, Black Ops is a testament to the courage, creativity and dedication of the Agency's Special Activities Group and its elite shadow warriors.Ric's book:"Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior"https://www.amazon.com/Black-Ops-Life-Shadow-Warrior/dp/1250271843Today's sponsors:

Deep in the jungles of Central America, right-wing 'Contra' guerrillas face off against government forces. Major Alex, a Honduran army officer, trains and supplies the Contras on the ground. Except Major Alex isn't a Major at all - he's Ric Prado, CIA. Vanessa Kirby joins Ric as he recalls the most nail-biting moments from his time undercover. Could YOU survive the jungle? From SPYSCAPE, the home of secrets. A Cup And Nuzzle production. Series producers: Gemma Newby, Joe Foley. Produced by Leo Hornak. Music by Nick Ryan.

The Dennis Michael Lynch Podcast is 58-minutes for this day. DML interviews Ric Prado. He was one of the top agents to serve in the CIA over the last few decades. Prado and DML speak about the current state of America, the fears of Chinese and Russian aggression, and why America is losing its position as an amazing country. A must listen program. Listen on DML NEWS APP, Spotify, iHeart, or Apple Podcasts. Watch on TeamDML.com

Today's guest is legendary CIA paramilitary and operations officer Enrique “Ric” Prado.   Ric is a retired CIA operations officer who specialized in paramilitary, counter-terrorism and special/clandestine operations. Escaping Cuba as a child amidst the violence of Castro's Cuban Revolution, he would go on to retire as the CIA equivalent of a two-star general after serving for twenty-four years in the nation's premier intelligence service which included 36 months as the first CIA officer to live in the anti-Sandinista “Contra” camps and later as Deputy Chief of Station of the original Bin Laden Task Force.  His new New York Times bestselling memoir Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Officer takes a deep dive into a truly exceptional career filled with assassins, terrorists, spies and revolutionaries. Prado's memoir highlights not only the complexities of America's shadow wars, but the extreme courage, creativity and perseverance it takes to execute such missions inside the most demanding and hostile environments.  You can learn more about Ric Prado at ricprado.com.   Sponsors: Navy Federal Credit Union: Today's episode is presented by Navy Federal Credit Union. Learn more about them at navyfederal.org Black Rifle Coffee Company: Today's episode is also brought to you by Black Rifle. Purchase at www.blackriflecoffee.com/dangerclose and use code: dangerclose20 at checkout for 20% off your purchase and your first coffee club order! SIG: This episode is sponsored by SIG Sauer. You can learn more about SIG here.   FEATURED GEAR Today's gear segment is brought to you by Paleo Valley, the maker of 100% grass fed and grass finished beef sticks. Enter code DANGERCLOSE15 at checkout for 15% off your order at paleovalley.com.   Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior   SIG P210 Carry

“When you see things that young, they tend to be tattooed on the brain,” said author Ric Prado. “The first firefight I saw, I was seven years old.” Black Ops is a memoir by “the highest ranking covert warrior to lift the veil of secrecy and offer a glimpse into the shadow wars America fought since Vietnam.” In this interview, Prado talks about his life as a legendary CIA officer, the responsibility he felt to America as an immigrant, how he went about publishing CIA secrets and his views on taking calculated risks both in missions and in life. If it's your first time listening, make sure to subscribe and visit my new website for information on the YouTube channel, the blog, this podcast, and my new book ‘Ink by the Barrel' which takes advice from these 200+ interviews at the link below… Follow us on Instagram: @creativeprinciples If you enjoy the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts? It only takes about 60-seconds and it really helps convince some of the hard-to-get guests to sit down and have a chat (simply scroll to the bottom on your iTunes Podcast app and click “Write Review"). Enjoy the show!

Rick chats with author and former CIA agent Ric Prado about his new book "Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior," former conman and subject of the new documentary "King of Con" Barry Minkow, and top defense attorney and author David S. Rudolf about his new book "American Injustice: Inside Stories from the Underbelly of the Criminal Justice System."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time in the Central Intelligence Agency's history, a covert operator of major rank and standing pens a fully operational memoir. Ric Prado's BLACK OPS: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior(St. Martin's Press) lays out this decorated hero's twenty-four career fighting in the shadows to protect a nation and home that welcomed him at his most desperate hour as a child of communist repression. In BLACK OPS, Prado shares the harrowing true stories of life in the deadly web of international assassins, spies, revolutionaries, terrorists, and killers. He reveals how he and his fellow CIA officers devoted their lives to operating in the shadows to fight a little-seen or known war to keep the U.S. safe from those intent on destroying the nation. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Enrique “Ric” Prado spent a legendary twenty-four year career in the Central Intelligence Agency spanned two era's: The Cold War and the Age of Terrorism. Mr. Prado received the CIA Distinguished Career Intelligence Medal (highest award given upon retirement) and the George Bush Award for Excellence in Counterterrorism, among others. He is a paramilitary, counterterrorism, and special clandestine operations specialist, and served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts. Upon leaving public service, Prado worked as an executive at a private military contractor where he built a specialized operations team. He is currently the co-owner of Camp-X Training, where he continues his service training and supporting the SPECOPS community, teaching Advanced Special Operations and Techniques among other essential skills. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steve-richards/support

El Boston Globe reveló el pasado sábado 19 de marzo datos aterradores sobre la investigación del atentado que sufriera David Ortiz en 2019. Tanto evuelo a causado que el tema es tendencia de Twitter desde entonces y ya con 3 días seguidos hablando del tema. Escribe Enrique Rojas, periodista senior de ESPN en español: "De acuerdo con The Boston Globe, la investigación encabezada por el ex Comisionado de la Policia de Boston, Ed Davis, y el ex agente de la CIA, Ric Prado, arrojó que un supuesto capo de la droga de República Dominicana llamado César Emilio Peralta (“César el Abusador”) alegadamente habría ordenado el ataque a David Ortiz porque supuestamente, el pelotero “le habría faltado el respeto”, por lo que, según establece la investigación, orquestó un plan para colocar una recompensa por la vida del pelotero". La defensa del ex procurador general de la República, Jean Alain Rodríguez, llamó, prácticamente fantoche a Ed Davis, quien condujo la investigación. Por eso en este episodio le revelamos realmente quién es este hombre y todos los títulos, lauros y logros que ha logrado en el ámbito policial, resolución de conflictos e investigaciones desde la década de los 80. También abordamos las noticias de siempre, cortesía de El Emergente, tu punto de encuentro del beisbol latinoamericano. ¡Buen provecho! Parte de la información utilizada en este podcast fue extraída del siguiente hilo de Twitter. Apoya nuestro proyecto en Patreon. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alfredo-villasmil/message

The Central Intelligence Agency, better known as the CIA, is the principal foreign intelligence and counterintelligence agency of the U.S. government. The CIA's primary job is collecting and analyzing foreign intelligence and conducting covert action, and U.S. policymakers, including the President of the United States, make policy decisions based on the information provided by the CIA. On this very special episode of Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by Ric Prado, a decorated hero and CIA shadow warrior, who spent years fighting to protect the nation and home that welcomed him as a child from a communist repression. Craig and Ric discuss Ric's book, BLACK Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior, what the CIA does, how our laws as a country apply, and how they apply in foreign situations. Special thanks to our sponsor, Posh Virtual Receptionists.

The Central Intelligence Agency, better known as the CIA, is the principal foreign intelligence and counterintelligence agency of the U.S. government. The CIA's primary job is collecting and analyzing foreign intelligence and conducting covert action, and U.S. policymakers, including the President of the United States, make policy decisions based on the information provided by the CIA. On this very special episode of Lawyer 2 Lawyer, host Craig Williams is joined by Ric Prado, a decorated hero and CIA shadow warrior, who spent years fighting to protect the nation and home that welcomed him as a child from a communist repression. Craig and Ric discuss Ric's book, BLACK Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior, what the CIA does, how our laws as a country apply, and how they apply in foreign situations. Special thanks to our sponsor, Posh Virtual Receptionists.

The story of the young CIA operative who helped launch the Contra War in Nicaragua. Ric Prado joins HBH and tells of his first mission in the CIA. Long before the US operations in Central America became public, he was embedded in supporting the Nicaraguan Contras. With very little experience at the time, Ric found himself alongside brave local rebels at the tip of the spear.That was just the beginning of Ric's decorated career in the Central Intelligence Agency. He went on to receive multiple medals as a case officer and high ranking official. His new book ‘Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior' is available now.

Author of "Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

George Noory and retired CIA counterterrorism specialist Ric Prado discuss his career in the agency, how agents undertake dangerous missions to disrupt foreign powers and terrorist groups, and what he thinks will happen with the Russia/Ukraine conflict. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

[00:02:36] Joe Lieberman [00:18:29] Ric Prado [00:39:22] Amb. William Taylor [00:55:05] Marc Thiessen [01:16:10] Gen. Jack Keane (Ret.) [01:31:53] Madison Alworth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ric Prado is a former CIA agent with a new book (out March 1st) called 'BLACK OPS: THE LIFE OF A CIA SHADOW WARRIOR'. What an intense and awesome conversation we had; a very different and thoughtful episode for 'Lauren Interviews ' with many timely references... we know you're going to be soooo impressed with Ric!

A lot of Americans think they have it bad.  There's a shortage of a luxury good.  Their cell phone isn't brand new any more.  You know, real problems.  Pretty much on the same level as your country's government assassinating your family because you're not loyal enough, if you ask the average college student.  For people who actually experienced totalitarianism, an old cell phone doesn't seem so bad.  Ric moved to this country and put his life on the line for it because he has something most of us don't: perspective.  Now you can gain some perspective too, by reading his book.  Or you can just dismiss it as fake and cry about Target being out of Funko Pops.  That seems to be a popular thing to do. Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior - amzn.to/35GmNfG See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ric Prado was a CIA officer and operative during some of the most heinous and outrageous times in the institution.  Prado personally was in Nicaragua working with the CONTRAs, and was apart of keeping an eye on Bin Laden.  Prado joins Defo and Lubie to talk about his days in the CIA and how the organization works these days. Ric Prado was sent of to the USA as a 9 year old child from Cuba under going a change to the Castro regime.  Prado knows what it is to escape a dictator regime, and talks about what we are seeing between Russia and the Ukraine. Check out Defo and Lubie M-F from 7-9am ET LIVE, https://eyeonchannel.com/the-defo-show/ Follow Defo on Twitter @DefoShow, FB - https://www.facebook.com/jeff.deforrest Follow Lubie on Twitter/Ig @LubieOnAir, FB - https://www.facebook.com/mike.lubitz1

Summary Enrique “Ric” Prado (LinkedIn) joins Andrew (Twitter; LinkedIn) to discuss his new memoir “Black Ops.” One of the most renowned CIA officers of his generation tells his story. Book You can buy Ric's book, Black Ops, and support the International Spy Museum's mission here. What You'll Learn Intelligence His time as CIA Counterterrorist Chief of Operations which included 9/11 His career battling communist insurgents and Islamic terrorists on multiple continents His experience living in “Contra” camps during the Nicaraguan Revolution His time as Dep. Chief of Station and co-founding member of the Bin Laden Task Force Reflections Conquering your emotions to stay focused in a crisis His journey fleeing the Cuban Revolution as a young boy to CIA via USAF Pararescue And much, much more… Episode Notes Ric Prado spent twenty-four-years in the CIA – and what a twenty-four years it was. His first 36 months were in the jungles of Central America as the first CIA officer to live among the “Contras,” including a period with the Miskito Native people; indeed, the photos he took ending up on the desk of CIA Director Bill Casey. So, what was it like at the pointy end of the Reagan Doctrine's anti-communist spear, or as CIA Counterterrorist Center Chief of Ops during 9/11? To find out, and to hear more about Ric's storied career, Andrew sat down with him for this week's episode. One of the meanings of the noun “legend” is “a story coming down from the past.” Many people who were in the business at the CIA and elsewhere will have heard the stories that come down from the past re Enrique “Ric” Prado, but now we all have a chance to hear Ric set the record straight in his own words.  And… If Ric's communist uncle hadn't alerted the family that his school intended to send him off to the Soviet Union as a promising student for further education…if he hadn't taken an Oceanography class at Miami Dade College and met someone who led him to USAF Pararescue…if he hadn't been tipped off that he was to be killed in a Contra camp during the night and extricated himself from the situation…as Bob Dylan said, summing up so much of the human condition, “one more time, for a simple twist of fate.” Quote of the Week "The wiring was there and the mentoring from my dad…then the trip to the orphanage. And then definitely when I got into pararescue…being one of our special operations forces, the training is very, very intense…And making it through SERE school, making it through mountain climbing school. There's a certain level of conquering your emotions that you have to do…But I think that the most important thing was that I believed in what I was doing." – Ric Prado Resources SpyCast Episodes In the CT Center on 9/11, C. Storer A Life in the CIA, Hank Crumpton Interview with Cofer Black CT, Nicholas Rasmussen CT Strategy: P. Bergen & C. Costa Rethinking CT: J. Blazakis Books The Reagan Doctrine, J. Scott (DUP, 1996)  The Real Contra War, T. Brown (UOP, 2001) Insurgency to Stability, “The Philippines,” Rabasa et al., (RAND, 2011) Shining Path's Politics of War, C. Degregori (UWP, 2012) Red Revolution: Philippine Guerillas, G. Jones (Routeledge, 2019) The Shining Path, Starn & Serna (Norton, 2019) US Relations with Latin America (Five Books) Articles “Shining Path Leader Dead,” BBC (2021) “Nicaragua Veers to Dictatorship,” J. Cordoba, WSJ (2021) Documentaries Nicaragua Was Our Home (L. Shapiro, 1985) Ballad of the Little Soldier (W. Herzog, 1985) Primary Sources President Carter to Somoza (Brown, 1979) Reagan Covert Ops. Nicaragua (NSA, 1981) US Aid to Nicaragua (1982) Reagan Covert Ops. Nicaragua (Brown, 1983) Goldwater to Casey, “I'm Pissed Off” (Brown, 1984) Reagan State Of The Union (APP, 1985) Reagan Address Nicaragua (ReaganLib, 1986) Contras Lost Congress (WaPo, 1986) 25 Years of the NPA (Hartford, 1994)  Wildcard Resource The Clash, Sandanista (Album, 1980)

Today's guest is Ric Prado. Ric is a paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and clandestine operations specialist, with a focus on international training operations and programs. He is a twenty-four year veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) where he served as an Operations Officer in six overseas posts. He was Deputy Chief of Station and "Plank Owner" of the original Bin Ladin Task Force/Issues Station as well as Chief of Station in a hostile Muslim country. Ric also served as Chief of Operations in the CIA's Counterterrorist Center (CTC) during the September 11th attacks, where he helped coordinate the CTC's special operations (SPECOPS) activities with the National Security Council and FBI, as well as with elite U.S. military representatives from Delta Force and SEAL-Team Six, then detailed to CTC. He retired as Senior Intel Service-2 (SIS-2, Major General equivalent at CIA). Ric's new book Black Ops: The Life of a CIA Shadow Warrior hits bookstores on March 1st and details his life and career conducting some of the most important covert wars that America has fought since Vietnam. In this interview, we'll dive deep into the contents of the book.Timestamps00:02:33 His reasons for writing the book 00:10:11 Difference between CIA officers and agents 00:11:02 The subtlety of CIA work 00:11:44 Enhanced interrogation techniques 00:15:47 Growing up in Cuba 00:20:54 The sacrifice his parents made to give him a better life 00:24:32 Getting in trouble in Miami 00:27:16 The impact that martial arts has had throughout his life 00:29:36 His time in Air Force Pararescue 00:35:16 Transition into the CIA 00:39:00 His relationship with his wife Carmen while working in the CIA 00:41:02 Helping train the Contras in Honduras 00:50:28 Lessons learned about gaining trust 00:53:38 His perspective on high performing teams 00:57:56 America's engrained sense of fair play 01:02:01 Recruiting agents in the field 01:06:39 Cooper's Colors 01:10:06 What he could share and not share with loved ones while working in the CIA 01:12:05 CIA vs. Washington DC politics 01:15:16 His perspective on the current Russia-Ukraine situation 01:19:15 What he wants to accomplish 10 years from now 01:22:06 His daily routine 01:23:40 His driving force 01:27:56 Parting words for the listeners