The Other James Bond

The Other James Bond

From Very Special Episodes by iHeartPodcasts

May 27, 2026 · 50 min · Season 1 · Episode 80

About this episode

The episode explores the true story of the real James Bond, an ornithologist whose name was used by Ian Fleming for his fictional spy character.

When Ian Fleming needed a name for the secret agent at the center of his new novel, he stole one from the cover of a birdwatching book. The real James Bond wasn’t a martini-drinking spy, but a shy American ornithologist who spent decades exploring the Caribbean. Then one surreal day, he finally tracked down the man who stole his identity. Special thanks to Jim Wright and his excellent book, The Real James Bond: A True Story of Identity Theft, Avian Intrigue, and Ian Fleming (From Schiffer Publishing ).  * Hosted by Dana Schwartz, Zaron Burnett, and Jason English Written by Dave Roos Senior Producer is Josh Fisher Editing and Sound Design by Chris Childs Additional Editing by Mary Dooe Mixing and Mastering by Chris Childs Original Music by Elise McCoy Show Logo by Lucy Quintanilla Executive Producer is Jason English Got a very special question? Willing to share your favorite Very Special Episode? You can reach us at veryspecialepisodes@gmail.com . And go pick up Dana's new book ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Hosts: Dana Schwartz, Zaron Burnett, Jason English

Topics covered

  • identity theft
  • ornithology
  • Ian Fleming
  • James Bond
  • Caribbean exploration
  • cultural history

Keywords

  • James Bond
  • Ian Fleming
  • ornithologist
  • identity theft
  • Caribbean
  • birdwatching
  • cultural history

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Real James Bond: A True Story of Identity Theft, Avian Intrigue, and Ian Fleming

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