The Black Spy Podcast

Carlton King

If you wish to know what it's really like to make the life and death decisions portrayed in the movies by James Bond or on TV by Homeland's, Cary Matherson, then Black Spy Podcast is the show for you. If you're interested in the clandestine world of secret intelligence, espionage, counter-terrorism and national security, then this definitely your must listen Podcast! Every week, along with a different successful or famous guest who's always been interested in the secret services, ex officer, Carlton King, will guide you through this enthralling and exhilarating world, which he inhabited for nearly 30 years. You'll be surprised what you learn.

  1. 5d ago

    The Next Big British Scandal? - With Bowie Dolan (Part 2)

    The Next Big British Scandal?                    With Bowie Dolan (Part 2)                   Black Spy Podcast number 260 Season 26, Episode 0008 The Black Spy Podcast continues its two‑part investigation into the long‑running controversy surrounding UK contractor tax‑avoidance "loan schemes." Host Carlton King is joined by guests Bowie Dolan and Furgas Esack, who bring first‑hand insight into how thousands of self‑employed contractors were drawn into arrangements marketed as fully compliant tax‑efficiency structures. Under these schemes, contractors' earnings were routed through large intermediary companies and then paid back to them as "loans," dramatically reducing declared income and therefore tax liability. The episodes trace how these schemes proliferated across IT, engineering, and professional contracting sectors, often promoted as legitimate and government‑approved. Dolan and Esack explain the mechanics, the sales pitch, and the widespread belief that major corporations and specialist umbrella companies had properly vetted the arrangements. The scandal escalates when HMRC later rules the practice unlawful, retroactively demanding repayment of taxes, interest, and penalties. Many contractors—who acted in good faith—found themselves facing life‑altering financial consequences. Across both episodes, the Black Spy Podcast examines the human impact, the policy failures, and the ongoing debate about fairness, responsibility, and accountability. It offers a sober, accessible exploration of a complex issue that continues to affect thousands across the UK. So listen now to The Black Spy Podcast to be entertained whilst simultaneously learning. If you wish to discuss this episode or any other with Carlton, or other regular members of the Black Spy Podcast team, feel free to do so. Moreover, please don't forget to subscribe in order to never miss another episode. To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Dr Rchel Taylor go to Substackany To contact Carlton King utilise any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor To read Carlton's latest biographical memoir: Seeking Jerry The Untold Story Of Scotland Yard's Secret Mission To Baghdad, During The 2003 US Led Invasion Of Iraq Go to Amazon:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/SEEKING-JERRY-Scotland-mission-invasion/dp/B0H9CJ21XC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0#detailBullets_feature_div  ISBN-13   979-8196219863 To read Carlton's autobiography: "Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent" Click the link below: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/BO1MTV2GDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_WNZ5MT89T9C14CB53651 If you are interested to know about the Male Menopause or fear you or a loved one is suffering for unknown reasons please consider reading Dr Rachel's & Carlton's book on the how the Menopause effects men - search Amazon Books for:  The Male Menopause - The Hidden Crisis  (ASIN: B0G5M78PSZ)

  2. Aug 9

    The Next Big British Scandal? With Bowie Dolan (Part 1)

    The Next Big British Scandal? With Bowie Dolan (Part 1) Black Spy Podcast number 259 Season 26, Episode 0007 The Black Spy Podcast returns this week and next with a two‑part investigation into the long‑running controversy surrounding UK contractor tax‑avoidance "loan schemes." Host Carlton King is joined by guests Bowie Dolan and Firgas Esack, who bring first‑hand insight into how thousands of self‑employed contractors were drawn into arrangements marketed as fully compliant tax‑efficiency structures. Under these schemes, contractors' earnings were routed through large intermediary companies and then paid back to them as "loans," dramatically reducing declared income and therefore tax liability. The episodes trace how these schemes proliferated across IT, engineering, and professional contracting sectors, often promoted as legitimate and government‑approved. Dolan and Esack explain the mechanics, the sales pitch, and the widespread belief that major corporations and specialist umbrella companies had properly vetted the arrangements. The scandal escalates when HMRC later rules the practice unlawful, retroactively demanding repayment of taxes, interest, and penalties. Many contractors—who acted in good faith—found themselves facing life‑altering financial consequences. Across both episodes, the Black Spy Podcast examines the human impact, the policy failures, and the ongoing debate about fairness, responsibility, and accountability. It offers a sober, accessible exploration of a complex issue that continues to affect thousands across the UK. So listen now to The Black Spy Podcast to be entertained whilst simultaneously learning. If you wish to discuss this episode or any other with Carlton, or other regular members of the Black Spy Podcast team, feel free to do so. Moreover, please don't forget to subscribe in order to never miss another episode. To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Dr Rachel Taylor go to Substackany To contact Carlton King utilise any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor To read Carlton's latest book: Seeking Jerry The Untold Story Of Scotland Yard's Secret Mission To Baghdad, During The 2003 US Led Invasion Of Iraq Go to Amazon:  ISBN-13           979-8196219863 To read Carlton's autobiography: "Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent" Click the link below: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/BO1MTV2GDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_WNZ5MT89T9C14CB53651 If you are interested to know about the Male Menopause or fear you or a loved one is suffering for unknown reasons please consider reading Dr Rachel's & Carlton's book on the how the Menopause effects men - search Amazon Books for:  The Male Menopause - The Hidden Crisis  (ASIN: B0G5M78PSZ)

  3. Aug 2

    Playing the Race Card

    Playing the Race Card Black Spy Podcast number 258 Season 26, Episode 0006 This week on The Black Spy Podcast, we're diving into one of the most sensitive and controversial topics in modern politics, how the 'race card' is used, whether to highlight injustice or to manipulate opinion and mobilise support. We'll explore how political agendas, media narratives, and even grassroots campaigns can use race as a rallying point. But also how that can divide communities when it's used cynically. We're not here to dismiss racism or discrimination, but to ask whether every appeal to race is made in good faith, or if sometimes it's a strategic move to shape what people believe or how they behave locally, nationally, internationally and global – today and in the past. Join us for a thoughtful, evidence-based discussion that aims to cut through the slogans and examine the reality. So listen now to The Black Spy Podcast to be entertained whilst simultaneously learning. If you wish to discuss this episode or any other with Carlton, or other regular members of the Black Spy Podcast team, feel free to do so. Moreover, please don't forget to subscribe in order to never miss another episode. To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Dr Rchel Taylor go to Substackany To contact Carlton King utilise any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor To read Carlton's latest book: Seeking Jerry The Untold Story Of Scotland Yard's Secret Mission To Baghdad, During The 2003 US Led Invasion Of Iraq Go to Amazon:  ISBN-13           979-8196219863 To read Carlton's autobiography: "Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent" Click the link below: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/BO1MTV2GDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_WNZ5MT89T9C14CB53651 If you are interested to know about the Male Menopause or fear you or a loved one is suffering for unknown reasons please consider reading Dr Rachel's & Carlton's book on the how the Menopause effects men - search Amazon Books for:  The Male Menopause - The Hidden Crisis  (ASIN: B0G5M78PSZ)

  4. Jul 26

    Can PM Andy Burnham Bring Realism To No.10?

    Can PM Andy Burnham Bring Realism To No.10? Black Spy Podcast number 257 Season 26, Episode 0005 In this week's critical thinking episode, Carlton states why Prime Minister Andy Burnham must pivot Great Britain away from the shadows of its imperial past and align its ambitions with its present reality. Carlton argues that Burnham must focus on revitalizing the UK from within, rather than trying to maintain a global role that no longer fits the UK's current economic and military standing. The podcast highlights that the UK must abandon the superficial idea of simply relocating a few functions to the North and instead emulate countries like Germany, which has multiple regional centres of excellence. This would mean creating strong, economically diverse hubs throughout the nation, beyond London's traditional dominance. Moreover, Burnham must seriously reform the UK's devolution structure, ensuring that it is not just a token gesture but a meaningful redistribution of authority and resources. The importance of supporting the police force is also emphasized, as they are the true frontline of order, and neglecting them could lead to societal instability. Ultimately, Carlton argues that Andy Burnham must prioritize domestic issues, pulling the focus away from international posturing and instead working to strengthen the UK's foundations at home. This, Carlton explains, is the path to a more stable and prosperous future. So listen now to The Black Spy Podcast and be entertained as you simultaneously learn. If you wish to discuss this episode or any other with Carlton, or other regular members of the Black Spy Podcast team, feel free to do so. Moreover, please don't forget to subscribe in order to never miss another episode. To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Dr Rchel Taylor go to Substackany To contact Carlton King utilise any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor To read Carlton's latest book: Seeking Jerry The Untold Story Of Scotland Yard's Secret Mission To Baghdad, During The 2003 US Led Invasion Of Iraq Go to Amazon:  ISBN-13   979-8196219863 To read Carlton's autobiography: "Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent" Click the link below: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/BO1MTV2GDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_WNZ5MT89T9C14CB53651  If you are interested to know about the Male Menopause or fear you or a loved one is suffering for unknown reasons please consider reading Dr Rachel's & Carlton's book on the how the Menopause effects men - search Amazon Books for:  The Male Menopause - The Hidden Crisis  (ASIN: B0G5M78PSZ)

  5. Jul 19

    Should Under 16's be Banned From Social Media (Part 2)

    Should Under 16's be Banned From Social Media (Part 2) Black Spy Podcast number 256 Season 26, Episode 0004   This week's Black Spy Podcast is part 2 of an analysis as to why outgoing Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested and has pushed through the policy of banning under 16's from utilising various social media outlets from next year, 2027 onward. Carlton and regular Black Spy Podcast contributor, Fergus Esack, analyse the potential political reasons for the ban, the possible consequences of it – unintentional or otherwise – and the processes that will be required to make this ban effective. So listen now to The Black Spy Podcast and be entertained as you simultaneously learn.   If you wish to discuss this episode or any other with Carlton, or other regular members of the Black Spy Podcast team, feel free to do so. Moreover, please don't forget to subscribe in order to never miss another episode.   To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Dr Rchel Taylor go to Substackany To contact Carlton King utilise any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor   To read Carlton's Autobiography: "Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent" Click the link below: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/BO1MTV2GDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_WNZ5MT89T9C14CB53651   If you are interested to know about the Male Menopause or fear you or a loved one is suffering for unknown reasons please consider reading Dr Rachel's & Carlton's book on the how the Menopause effects men - search Amazon Books for:  The Male Menopause - The Hidden Crisis  (ASIN: B0G5M78PSZ)

  6. Jul 12

    Should Under 16's be Banned From Social Media (Part 1)

    Should Under 16's be Banned From Social Media (Part 1) Black Spy Podcast number 255, Season 26, Episode 0003   This week's and next week's Black Spy Podcast analysis why Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested and pushed through the policy of banning under 16's from utilising various social media outlets from next year onward. Carlton and regular Black Spy Podcast contributor, Fergus Esack, analyse the potential political reasons for the ban, the possible consequences of it – unintentional or otherwise – and the processes that will be required to make this ban effective. So listen now to The Black Spy Podcast and be entertained as you simultaneously learn.  If you wish to discuss this episode or any other with Carlton, or other regular members of the Black Spy Podcast team, feel free to do so. Moreover, please don't forget to subscribe in order to never miss another episode.  To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Dr Rchel Taylor go to Substackany To contact Carlton King utilise any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor   To read Carlton's Autobiography: "Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent" Click the link below: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/BO1MTV2GDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_WNZ5MT89T9C14CB53651  If you are interested to know about the Male Menopause or fear you or a loved one is suffering for unknown reasons please consider reading Dr Rachel's & Carlton's book on the how the Menopause effects men - search Amazon Books for:  The Male Menopause - The Hidden Crisis  (ASIN: B0G5M78PSZ)

  7. Jul 5

    Are the British Police really so inept? – with Inspector Phil (Part 2)

    Are the British Police really so inept? – with Inspector Phil (Part 2) Black Spy Podcast number 254, Season 26, Episode 0002   Are Britain's police really as ineffective as headlines, politicians and sections of the public would have us believe? Or has policing become an easy target for criticism in an age of social media, 24-hour news and intense public scrutiny? Every mistake is broadcast nationally, while thousands of professional interventions that prevent crime, protect the vulnerable and save lives rarely make the news. The reality is more nuanced. British policing faces unprecedented challenges: So listen now to The Black Spy Podcast and be entertained whilst simultaneously learning.   Moreover, if you wish to discuss this episode or any other with Carlton, or  other members of the regular Black Spy Podcast team, feel free to do so, Please don't forget to subscribe in order to never miss another episode.   To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Dr Rchel Taylor go to Substackany To contact Carlton King utilise any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor   To read Carlton's Autobiography: "Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent" Click the link below: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/BO1MTV2GDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_WNZ5MT89T9C14CB53651 If you are interested to know about the Male Menopause or fear you or a loved one is suffering for unknown reasons please consider reading Dr Rachel's & Carlton's book on the how the Menopause effects men - search Amazon Books for:  The Male Menopause - The Hidden Crisis  (ASIN: B0G5M78PSZ)

  8. Jun 28

    Are the British Police really so inept? – with Inspector Phil (Part 1)

    Are the British Police really so inept? – with Inspector Phil (Part 1) Black Spy Podcast number 253, Season 26, Episode 0001 Are Britain's police really as ineffective as headlines, politicians and sections of the public would have us believe? Or has policing become an easy target for criticism in an age of social media, 24-hour news and intense public scrutiny?  Every mistake is broadcast nationally, while thousands of professional interventions that prevent crime, protect the vulnerable and save lives rarely make the news. The reality is more nuanced. British policing faces unprecedented challenges: So listen now to The Black Spy Podcast and be entertained whilst simultaneously learning. Moreover, if you wish to discuss this episode or any other with Carlton, or  other members of the regular Black Spy Podcast team, feel free to do so, Please don't forget to subscribe in order to never miss another episode.   To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Dr Rchel Taylor go to Substackany To contact Carlton King utilise any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor   To read Carlton's Autobiography: "Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent" Click the link below: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/BO1MTV2GDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_WNZ5MT89T9C14CB53651  If you are interested to know about the Male Menopause or fear you or a loved one is suffering for unknown reasons please consider reading Dr Rachel's & Carlton's book on the how the Menopause effects men - search Amazon Books for:  The Male Menopause - The Hidden Crisis  (ASIN: B0G5M78PSZ)

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

If you wish to know what it's really like to make the life and death decisions portrayed in the movies by James Bond or on TV by Homeland's, Cary Matherson, then Black Spy Podcast is the show for you. If you're interested in the clandestine world of secret intelligence, espionage, counter-terrorism and national security, then this definitely your must listen Podcast! Every week, along with a different successful or famous guest who's always been interested in the secret services, ex officer, Carlton King, will guide you through this enthralling and exhilarating world, which he inhabited for nearly 30 years. You'll be surprised what you learn.

Information

  • Creator
    Carlton King
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    266
  • Rating
    Clean

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