The Ciphered Past

The Ciphered Past
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Ciphered Past is a long-form investigative podcast hosted by Tim Gardner and Eli Frame, dedicated to examining the hidden layers of modern history, intelligence operations, and political power. Each episode dives deep into declassified documents, suppressed testimony, overlooked witnesses, and historical anomalies—connecting dots that were never meant to be connected. With a primary focus on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, Ciphered Past also explores the broader machinery behind covert operations, intelligence agencies, and media manipulation,.

  1. 6H AGO

    Ciphered Past Episode 30 History and Reality with Lisa Pease

    In Episode 30 of Ciphered Past, Tim Gardner and Eli Frame sit down with acclaimed author and researcher Lisa Pease for a powerful and deeply revealing conversation exploring the political assassinations of the 1960s and the intelligence landscape surrounding them.Lisa Pease, best known for her groundbreaking book A Lie Too Big to Fail on the assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, brings decades of research into a discussion that bridges the JFK and RFK cases, highlighting the interconnected nature of intelligence operations, witness testimony, media influence, and the broader Cold War context.Tim and Eli guide the conversation through critical questions surrounding suppressed evidence, psychological pressure placed on witnesses, intelligence agency influence over media narratives, and the ongoing struggle for transparency in government records. The discussion also explores Oswald’s suspicious defection and return, intelligence overlaps between both assassinations, and why newly released files remain essential to understanding the full historical picture.This episode delivers a thoughtful, nuanced exploration of unresolved questions while emphasizing the importance of continued research, critical thinking, and open historical inquiry.If you’re interested in the deeper political and intelligence history behind the JFK and RFK assassinations, this is an essential conversation.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 — Opening & Episode IntroductionTim and Eli introduce Episode 30 and welcome Lisa Pease to the show. 02:15 — Lisa Pease Background & Research FocusDiscussion of Lisa’s work on RFK, JFK, intelligence operations, and historical narrative formation. 07:30 — The Climate of the 1960s & Intelligence ContextCold War tensions, political upheaval, and the broader historical framework surrounding the assassinations.14:40 — RFK & JFK: Overlapping Players and MotivesThe interconnected nature of both assassinations and recurring intelligence figures. 23:30 — Oswald’s Defection, Return & Intelligence QuestionsSuspicious circumstances surrounding Oswald’s travel and Cold War inconsistencies. 31:20 — Media Influence & Intelligence RelationshipsDiscussion of intelligence ties to national media and narrative shaping. 37:30 — Sandy Serrano & Witness Psychological PressureLisa details intimidation tactics and the handling of the polka-dot dress testimony. 47:15 — RFK Witness Evidence & Ballistics QuestionsEyewitness testimony regarding shooting distance and inconsistencies with the official narrative. 01:05:30 — JFK Witnesses, Dealey Plaza & Conflicting DescriptionsDiscussion of Dealey Plaza witnesses, Brennan’s testimony, and suspect descriptions. 01:18:00 — Intelligence, Media Narratives & Public PerceptionHow conflicting witness accounts enable competing narratives.01:32:30 — File Releases & The Importance of Continued ResearchWhy obtaining historical records remains essential for researchers today. 01:40:00 — Closing Thoughts & Final Reflections🔎 keywordslisa pease, ciphered past podcast, jfk assassination, rfk assassination, intelligence history, sandy serrano, polka dot dress, cia media influence, oswald defection, dealey plaza witnesses, cold war intelligence, government transparency, historical research.📘 Lisa Pease — A Lie Too Big to Fail🛒 Amazon👉 View on Amazon👉 Alternate Amazon listing (formats & editions)This book presents Pease’s extensive research into the RFK assassination, examining witness testimony, investigative handling, and broader political context surrounding the case.🛒 Barnes & Noble👉 View on Barnes & NobleBarnes & Noble offers paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats with availability for shipping or in-store pickup depending on location.🛒 Books-A-Million👉 View on Books‑A‑MillionAnother solid option for paperback ordering and shipping with the same Feral House edition.

    1h 39m

  2. 2D AGO

    Ciphered Past Episode 29: Swept Under the Rug with Tim Fattig

    in this gripping episode of ciphered past, tim gardner and eli frame sit down with researcher tim fattig to examine some of the most controversial and overlooked aspects of the jfk assassination and its aftermath.this conversation dives deep into the suspicious behavior surrounding the dallas sheriff’s department, including the roles and actions of figures such as buddy walthers and sheriff bill decker, and how their presence and decisions continue to raise questions decades later.the discussion also explores one of the most haunting moments in american history — jack ruby’s shooting of lee harvey oswald — and the troubling optics of ruby being escorted with a bag placed over his head immediately afterward. was this simple procedure, or something more revealing about the chaotic and controlled environment inside dallas law enforcement that day?tim fattig brings forward compelling perspectives on:• the overlapping networks between the jfk assassination and watergate-era intelligence figures• continued government resistance to full transparency surrounding jfk assassination files• the long-debated identity of david atlee phillips and the controversy surrounding the “maurice bishop” allegation• the possibility that richard nixon became entangled in intelligence conflicts that extended far beyond watergate• the role of media narratives in shaping public understanding — and misunderstanding — of the assassinationthrough historical context, document analysis, and candid discussion, this episode highlights how unresolved questions, institutional secrecy, and conflicting witness accounts continue to shape the jfk research landscape.🎙️ guest: tim fattig🎧 hosts: tim gardner & eli frame00:00 intro — ciphered past opening & show setup01:31 tim fattig introduction & catching up with the show03:10 richard nixon testimony, watergate & intelligence conflicts05:45 nixon vs the establishment — parallels with jfk07:40 “bay of pigs thing” reference & possible jfk assassination link09:50 dallas safe houses, cuban networks & intelligence overlap11:45 tosh plumlee, intelligence touchpoints & credibility debate14:10 the “abort team” theory & dealey plaza presence18:30 cuban exile activity in dallas & oswald’s possible positioning20:50 gunrunning networks & anti-castro funding questions23:15 missing intelligence records & frustration with jfk file releases25:05 david atlee phillips, personnel files & transparency problems29:40 maurice bishop controversy & identity debate32:00 military intelligence crossover & vesianna discussion34:15 james hosty, oswald’s note & possible fbi interactions36:30 destruction of evidence & bureaucratic self-preservation39:10 ruth & michael paine, wiretap questions & pre-assassination monitoring41:30 jack ruby shooting oswald — security failures inside dallas pd44:25 media chaos inside police headquarters46:05 ruby’s movements & unexplained police access47:45 ruby bag over head & white jumpsuit controversy48:30 insider recollections & unanswered ruby handling questions50:55 pop culture influence — manchurian candidate & cold war paranoia52:40 will fritz meeting sheriff decker — unexplained private discussion54:05 sheriff bill decker as a power figure in dallas57:00 sheriff’s department vs dallas police — investigative roles59:30 buddy walthers & early evidence discoveries01:01:05 sheriff’s department criticism & civil rights era context01:03:25 frustrations with jfk file secrecy & incomplete disclosure01:06:00 intelligence file withholding & the cram report discussion01:08:20 government transparency frustrations & future disclosure doubts01:11:10 media narratives, distraction cycles & controlled information flow01:13:30 closing reflections on unanswered questions & historical uncertainty

    1h 37m

  3. 5D AGO

    Ciphered Past Episode 28 More than a Fuzzy picture with Bart Kamp

    In this episode of Ciphered Past, Tim Gardner and Eli Frame sit down with researcher and author Bart Kamp to explore one of the most debated and controversial figures connected to the JFK assassination — the mysterious individual known as “Prayer Man.”Bart Kamp has spent years meticulously analyzing photographs, films, witness testimony, and timeline evidence surrounding the entrance of the Texas School Book Depository during the moments surrounding President Kennedy’s assassination. His work challenges long-held assumptions and raises profound questions about Lee Harvey Oswald’s alleged location at the time of the shooting.Throughout this conversation, Bart walks us through:▪️ The origins of the Prayer Man theory▪️ Photographic and film evidence from Dealey Plaza▪️ Oswald’s documented movements inside the TSBD▪️ Witness statements and timeline discrepancies▪️ The role of media framing and investigative blind spots▪️ Why the Depository doorway remains a critical focal point in assassination researchWe also explore how emerging digital enhancements and renewed interest in primary source material continue to reshape the conversation around the events of November 22, 1963.This discussion is not about pushing conclusions — it’s about examining evidence, asking difficult questions, and revisiting overlooked details that still resonate more than six decades later.Timestamps:00:00 — Ciphered Past intro & show opening narration01:35 — Episode introduction & guest welcome (Bart Kamp)03:54 — Bart’s origin story & discovery of Prayer Man research06:43 — From papers to book: developing Prayer Man: More Than a Fuzzy Picture08:50 — Digitizing Malcolm Blunt’s archive & building a chronological case11:07 — Second-floor lunchroom encounter overview begins13:11 — Why the Baker–Truly encounter fails under scrutiny17:10 — Timeline problems, building logistics & witness contradictions19:31 — Depository doorway evidence & Oswald’s claimed location21:09 — Film analysis: Darnell footage, Baker movements & entry timing23:34 — Revel list & Oswald leaving the TSBD25:35 — Evidence inconsistencies & the Hidell ID discussion27:24 — Baker affidavit contradictions & early statement issues28:51 — Roll call, Oswald leaving work & Texas Theater questions30:58 — Beckley residence issues & narrative distractions33:22 — AI, film clarity & the Darnell/Wiegman footage limitations35:46 — Newly discovered KRLD hallway footage & research implications38:08 — Police interrogation corridor footage & media leaks39:07 — Roger Craig testimony & interrogation documentation gaps41:21 — Hosty notes & Oswald’s Coke / outside location claim43:33 — Fritz, Decker & interrogation speculation vs evidence45:56 — Evidence destruction & document release frustrations48:14 — Newly surfaced files & second-edition book developments50:21 — Prayer Man film history & early researcher contributions52:38 — Identifying figures on the Depository steps54:50 — Continuous KRLD footage insights & Ruby hallway activity57:10 — Ruby shooting mechanics & basement security failures59:36 — New Orleans pamphleting & intelligence infiltration discussion01:01:41 — Research methodology & focusing deeply on one area01:03:24 — Prayer Man visual analysis & bottle reflection detail01:05:35 — Witness credibility & testimony interpretation01:07:50 — NBC film withholding & AI enhancement possibilities01:11:41 — Oswald searches, bullets & evidence insertion concerns01:16:08 — Hosty note speculation & research verification approach01:17:59 — Document analysis challenges & AI limitations01:20:21 — Scope of Bart’s research focus (TSBD & DPD timeline)01:22:34 — Book accessibility, references & second edition plans01:24:57 — Future research hopes & archival discovery potential01:26:36 — Final takes & closing reflections01:29:01 — Research advice & Malcolm Blunt archive recommendation

    1h 34m

  4. FEB 19

    Ciphered Past Episode 27: Shadows of War Part 2 with William Pellas and Charles Small

    In episode 27 of ciphered past, Tm Gardner is joined once again by researcher and author William Pellas and investigator Charles small for shadows of war part 2 — a deep exploration into the hidden intelligence networks, wartime operations, and historical figures that may have shaped the geopolitical landscape leading into the jfk assassination.this episode moves beyond the events of 1963 and instead examines the intelligence foundations formed during world war ii, including covert recruitment circles, oss origins, and the shadow world of espionage that bridged the wartime era into the cold war.charles small introduces the controversial figure Rene Dussaq and presents parallels between real intelligence operatives and fictional representations found within James Bond literature, raising questions about coded storytelling, hidden biographies, and insider narratives embedded within popular culture.william pellas expands the discussion into wartime strategy and lesser-known pacific theater operations, including the mysterious strategic importance of matsua island, german-japanese cooperation, and the possibility of intelligence and nuclear research corridors that remain poorly understood today.throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of primary source research, questioning accepted narratives, and recognizing how historical memory can be shaped by both omission and interpretation.Shadows of war part 2 is a layered and thought-provoking continuation of one of ciphered past’s most ambitious research discussions, offering listeners a deeper look into the shadow intersections between wartime espionage, intelligence culture, and the mysteries that continue to influence historical investigation today.00:00 — intro & welcome to episode 2700:30 — introducing william pellas & charles small01:40 — framing the episode: historical roots behind jfk & intelligence networks02:06 — charles introduces rene dosak & james bond parallels04:15 — white house communications after the assassination & intelligence access06:40 — physical & behavioral parallels between dosak and bond characters07:48 — mortimer adler, reading culture, and coded intelligence storytelling09:35 — adler connections, psychological references, and triple-speech concepts12:00 — dossier comparisons & character traits linking fiction to reality14:30 — discussion of reading primary sources & warren commission critique16:35 — target jfk research, douglas bazotta, and dosak’s alleged role19:00 — mistress brown connections & lbj intelligence context21:45 — shooter teams, backup operatives, and layered assassination structure24:30 — igor vaganov discussion & intelligence movement into dallas27:00 — timeline analysis, celestial references, and hidden chronology in novels30:20 — british intelligence implications & assassin networks33:20 — throat shot parallels, wound comparisons, and symbolic narrative links36:30 — the “magic bullet” theme in fiction vs historical narrative40:00 — early intelligence circles in 1941 new york & formation of covert networks43:00 — coi origins, oss development, and intelligence recruitment45:30 — matsua island sabotage discussion begins48:00 — german-japanese cooperation & wartime logistics speculation52:30 — allied bombing campaigns & strategic importance of matsua56:30 — nuclear research context & pacific intelligence operations01:00:00 — hidden wartime infrastructure & unconventional intelligence routes01:05:00 — prescott bush, wartime finance, and covert maritime activity01:09:30 — shadow fleet discussion & intelligence symbolism in bond narratives01:13:30 — pearl harbor era intelligence movements & dosak background01:16:30 — historiography, myth vs reality, and research philosophy01:21:40 — european espionage connections & wartime resistance networks01:25:00 — nor inayet khan discussion & s.o.e. intelligence legacy01:30:00 — closing reflections on intelligence history & layered narratives

    2h 7m

  5. FEB 13

    Ciphered Past Episode 26 : Wrapped in a Riddle with David Josephs

    In this episode of Ciphered Past, Tim Gardner and Eli Frame sit down with longtime JFK researcher David Josephs for a deep and challenging conversation about one of the most disputed corners of the assassination record: Mexico City.Why does the Mexico City story matter so much?What happens to the official narrative if Lee Harvey Oswald was never there?And what does the documentary record actually show when you strip away decades of assumptions?David walks us through the intelligence cables, witness statements, and tradecraft patterns that continue to raise questions about impersonation, manufactured evidence, and post-assassination narrative control. From the treatment of Silvia Durán to the structure of the Mexico City story itself, this conversation digs into the mechanics behind the official account—and what may lie beneath it.We also explore:The significance of the Mexico City timelineImpersonation vs. misidentification vs. manufactured documentationThe handling of key witnessesThe “Dulles network” and continuity of powerDallas law enforcement in the first 48 hoursCaptain Will Fritz and the interrogation of OswaldThe Armstrong identity frameworkEvidence alteration claims surrounding the Zapruder filmHow intelligence narratives shape public understandingThis is not a casual discussion. It’s a methodical look at the evidence, the records, and the unresolved contradictions that keep the Kennedy case alive more than sixty years later.Follow David Josephs on X:@DJOSEPHS_jfkAbout Ciphered PastCiphered Past explores the hidden corridors of history—assassinations, intelligence operations, and the people and events that shaped the modern world. Hosted by Tim Gardner and Eli Frame, the show brings together researchers, authors, and investigators for deep, unscripted conversations.KeywordsJFK assassination, David Josephs, Ciphered Past, Mexico City Oswald, Lee Harvey Oswald, JFK research, CIA Mexico City, Silvia Duran, Warren Commission, HSCA, Zapruder film, Captain Will Fritz, Dallas police JFK, Dulles network, Allen Dulles, Cold War intelligence, Oswald impersonation, JFK conspiracy, Armstrong theory, JFK evidence, assassination research, intelligence operations, Dallas 1963, CIA history, JFK filesDisclaimerThis program discusses historical events, research findings, and interpretations related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The views expressed by guests are their own and are presented for informational and educational purposes. This content is not intended to defame any individual or institution. Viewers are encouraged to conduct their own research and review primary sources when forming conclusions about historical events.

    1h 46m

  6. FEB 11

    Ciphered Past Episode 25 Empire of Lies with Charles Goyette

    In Episode 25 of Ciphered Past, Tim Gardner sits down with New York Times bestselling author, radio host, and political commentator Charles Goyette to discuss his latest book, Empire of Lies: Fragments from the Memory Hole.charles-timothyThe conversation explores the theme at the heart of Goyette’s book: how governments and institutions shape narratives, conceal uncomfortable truths, and influence public perception across decades of modern history.Together, Tim and Charles dive into:The concept behind “The Empire of Lies”How historical narratives are shaped and rewrittenThe long shadow of the JFK assassinationThe Gulf of Tonkin and Vietnam War deceptionThe role of media in shaping public beliefOperation Mockingbird and information controlWatergate, the Deep State, and political power strugglesThe cultural and economic trajectory of modern AmericaGoyette argues that the assassination of President Kennedy marked a turning point in modern American history—an event that reshaped the relationship between the public, the media, and the institutions of power.This is a wide-ranging, thought-provoking conversation about history, truth, and the forces that shape the world we live in today.

    1h 58m

  7. FEB 8

    Ciphered Past Episode 24 with Paul Bleau and Jim DiEugenio

    In this powerful and wide-ranging episode of Ciphered Past, Tim and Eli sit down with two of the most respected voices in modern JFK research—Paul Bleau and James DiEugenio—for an in-depth discussion on some of the most critical and controversial aspects of the Kennedy assassination.James DiEugenio, acclaimed author of Destiny Betrayed and The JFK Assassination Chokeholds, and editor at Kennedys and King, joins Paul Bleau—researcher, professor, and leading advocate for transparency in the JFK record—to examine newly released files and longstanding mysteries surrounding November 22, 1963.This episode covers a wide spectrum of key issues, including:The role of David Atlee Phillips and intelligence operations connected to the assassination.The mysterious figure of Kenneth CroyThe importance of New Orleans in the buildup to the assassination.Evidence and arguments suggesting Lee Harvey Oswald was being framed.The significance of the Mexico City incidents and the impersonation of Oswald.The controversy surrounding the 11,000+ JFK files that were recently released.The continuing debate over the identity of “Prayer Man” on the steps of the Texas School Book Depository.Throughout the conversation, Bleau and DiEugenio provide deep historical context, challenge official narratives, and explain why the assassination remains one of the most debated events in American history.If you’re interested in serious, research-driven discussions about the JFK assassination, intelligence operations, and the hidden history of the Cold War, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Recommended Reading:The JFK Assassination Chokeholds by James DiEugenioAmazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1634244270Barnes & Noble:https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...Visit Kennedys and King (edited by James DiEugenio):https://www.kennedysandking.comAbout Ciphered Past:Ciphered Past is a long-form interview series dedicated to exploring hidden history, intelligence operations, and the unanswered questions surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Through conversations with leading researchers, authors, and witnesses, the show seeks to challenge official narratives and encourage open historical inquiry.Keywords:JFK assassination, John F Kennedy, Ciphered Past, Paul Bleau, James DiEugenio, Destiny Betrayed, JFK Assassination Chokeholds, Kennedys and King, David Atlee Phillips, Kenneth Crozier, New Orleans, Lee Harvey Oswald, Oswald framed, Mexico City, Prayer Man, Texas School Book Depository, Dealey Plaza, CIA, Cold War, Warren Commission, HSCA, intelligence operations, assassination research, JFK files, NARA, declassified documents, conspiracy history, political history, deep politics, 1963 assassinationDisclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this interview are those of the guests and host and are presented for historical discussion and research purposes. This program does not claim to present definitive conclusions but aims to explore differing interpretations, newly released documents, and ongoing debates related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Viewers are encouraged to review primary sources and multiple perspectives when studying this complex historical event.

    2h 15m

  8. FEB 4

    Ciphered Past Episode 23 with Ricardo Morales Jr.

    In this deep and revealing interview, author and son Ricardo Morales Jr. sits down to discuss his powerful memoir Monkey Morales: The True Story of a Mythic Cuban Exile, Assassin, CIA Operative, FBI Informant, Smuggler, and Dad. We go beyond the surface and explore the man behind the legend — his father, Ricardo “Monkey” Morales Sr. — whose life spanned covert operations, espionage, betrayal, family struggle, and historic political controversy.📖 About the BookMonkey Morales is a gripping non-fiction portrait of a Cuban exile who became one of the most enigmatic figures in Cold War covert history. The book — co-written by Sean Oliver and Rick Morales Jr. — chronicles Morales Sr.’s chaotic life: from his roots in Cuba’s fight against Castro to a tumultuous career involving the CIA, FBI, anti-Castro paramilitary groups, and underground narcotics networks in Miami. It tackles explosive claims, including his father’s encounter with Lee Harvey Oswald at a CIA training camp before the JFK assassination, as well as his work with intelligence agencies and organized crime.Throughout our conversation, Rick opens up about:🔹 Growing up without his father at home and the emotional impact it had on his childhood🔹 The legacy of being Monkey Morales’ son — including stigma in Miami’s Little Havana🔹 His father’s death and the unanswered questions surrounding it🔹 The historic Bay of Pigs era, anti-Castro operations, and covert CIA/FBI ties🔹 Morale, myth, and the controversial JFK assassination connection — including Morales Sr.’s own claim that he was in Dallas days before the assassination and saw Oswald at a CIA training camp (though he denied personally participating in the killing).📚 Get the Book:🔗 Monkey Morales on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Monkey-Morales...🔗 Monkey Morales on Jabberwocky Bookshop: https://jabberwockybookshop.com/book/...This interview is essential viewing for anyone fascinated by espionage, Cold War history, true crime, the CIA/FBI’s shadow operations, and untold stories behind one of the most turbulent eras of American politics.🧠 Key Themes Covered in This Video🔹 Personal and emotional impact of growing up with an absent father🔹 Intelligence work in Cuba and the U.S.🔹 Cuban exile communities, anti-Castro activism, covert operations🔹 FBI and CIA relationships with informal operatives🔹 Miami’s role in Cold War politics and organized crime🔹 Claims linked to the JFK assassination and Operation 40🔹 The human side of geopolitical conflict⚠️ DisclaimerThis interview and the subject matter discussed — particularly regarding covert operations and historical claims — are based on personal memoir and narrative from Monkey Morales and interpretations by those connected to his story. Some assertions (including any links to the JFK assassination) are controversial and not universally supported by official historical evidence. The content shared here is presented for informational and entertainment purposes and should not be taken as definitive historical fact.

    1h 26m
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About

Ciphered Past is a long-form investigative podcast hosted by Tim Gardner and Eli Frame, dedicated to examining the hidden layers of modern history, intelligence operations, and political power. Each episode dives deep into declassified documents, suppressed testimony, overlooked witnesses, and historical anomalies—connecting dots that were never meant to be connected. With a primary focus on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, Ciphered Past also explores the broader machinery behind covert operations, intelligence agencies, and media manipulation,.

Information

  • Creator
    The Ciphered Past
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Ciphered Past
  • Show Website
    The Ciphered Past

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