Eyewitness History

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Join us as we revisit my conversation with Martin Cooper, the visionary engineer who conceived the handheld mobile phone. From concept to groundbreaking call in 1973, we'll take you on a journey through his revolutionary story.Highlights:Segment 1: The Visionary ConceptExplore Martin's early background and the spark that ignited the mobile phone idea. Uncover the condensed ten-year process behind this game-changing invention.Segment 2: Paving The WayDiscover how Martin's vision evolved into the iconic Motorola DynaTAC 8000x. Navigate the challenges overcome on the path to innovation.Segment 3: A Call That Shaped HistoryRelive the historic first public cell phone call and its lasting impact.Follow the Show on Social Media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EyewitnessHistoryTwitter: https://twitter.com/EyewitnessPodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today is the 85th anniversary of one of history's most heartbreaking laws.In remembrance, we're re-airing part one of our interview with Gene Klein. Mr. Klein is a holocaust survivor who defied the horrors of Auschwitz and emerged as a symbol of unyielding resilience. Liberated by the Soviets, Gene Klein's journey stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.Key Highlights:Unveiling Auschwitz's Horrors: Join us as Gene Klein provides a gripping firsthand account of life within the confines of Auschwitz, shedding light on the indomitable spirit that fueled survival amid unimaginable challenges.Early Life: Gene Klein shares what happened to his family.Lessons from History: Gene Klein shares profound insights drawn from personal experience, emphasizing the enduring importance of remembrance, tolerance, and the collective responsibility to prevent the repetition of history's darkest moments.Preserving the Legacy: Explore Gene Klein's perspective on safeguarding the memory of the Holocaust and the vital role of preserving survivors' stories for future generations.Follow the Show on Social Media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EyewitnessHistoryTwitter: https://twitter.com/EyewitnessPodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joel Thurm was one of the most admired, powerful, and accomplished casting directors in Hollywood. It was during his years as Vice President of Talent and Casting for both Paramount Television and NBC that he discovered the remarkable Phoenix family from which River and Joaquin became A-list movie stars. Here, Thurm tells the stories of his key involvement in such iconic movies and shows as Grease, Airplane!, Cheers, Silver Spoons, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.