S9 Ep8: David Bickford, former Legal Director of MI5 & MI6 turned author

In this conversation, David Bickford shares his fascinating journey from a unique childhood to a distinguished career in the intelligence services, specifically as a legal director for MI5 and MI6. He discusses the complexities of balancing national security with legality, the current threats posed by Russia and China, and the evolving landscape of intelligence work. Transitioning into a novelist, Bickford reflects on the inspiration behind his books, the writing process he shares with his wife, and offers valuable advice for aspiring writers and those considering a career in intelligence.To find out more about David and his latest novel, “Katya The Informer”, please visit his website: https://davidbickford.co.uk/Watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0zPfzbDOrIcSupport Secrets and SpiesBecome a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpiesBuy merchandise from our Redbubble shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996 Subscribe to our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dgFor more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.comConnect with us on social mediaTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/SecretsAndSpiesInstagram: https://instagram.com/secretsandspiesBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.socialFacebook: https://facebook.com/secretsandspiesSpoutible: https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpiesFollow Chris and Matt on Twitter/X:https://twitter.com/ChrisCarrFilmhttps://twitter.com/FultonMattSecrets and Spies is produced by Films & Podcasts LTD.Music by Andrew R. Bird Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.