In this compelling episode of NucleCast, Olena Kryzhanivska, a Ukrainian policy analyst and senior editor at the NATO Association of Canada explores the ongoing war in Ukraine, offering a deeply informed and personal perspective on the conflict’s origins, evolution, and global implications. Olena traces the roots of the war back through centuries of Russian imperialism, Soviet oppression, and the 2014 annexation of Crimea. She explains how the full-scale invasion in 2022 was not a sudden act but...
Jul 15, 2025•42 min•Season 3Ep. 227
In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther speaks with Dena Volovar , president of Bechtel's Nuclear Security and Environment Global Business Unit . They discuss Bechtel's extensive role in national security, particularly in managing operations at NNSA labs, and the company's commitment to nuclear power as a sustainable energy solution. Dena shares insights on the challenges faced in nuclear facility management, the transition from private to public sector projects, and the future of nuclea...
Jul 08, 2025•35 min•Season 3Ep. 226
In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther welcomes retired Lieutenant General Jim Dawkins, now Executive Vice President and COO of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions. Together, they explore the pivotal role of the Savannah River Site in America’s nuclear enterprise—from its origins in the Manhattan Project to its current missions in tritium production and plutonium pit manufacturing. Dawkins shares insights into the site's transformation from a Cold War-era bomb plant to a modern hub for nat...
Jul 01, 2025•37 min•Season 3Ep. 225
In this episode of NucleCast, Jim Howe interviews Brian D'Andrea, CEO of TechSource, discussing the company's significant role in supporting America's nuclear security enterprise. They explore TechSource's growth, employee ownership, and the importance of retaining critical skills in the nuclear field. Brian shares insights into the company's project management approach, workforce development initiatives, and strategic partnerships that enhance their capabilities. Brian D’Andrea is an entreprene...
Jun 24, 2025•41 min•Season 3Ep. 224
James Ragland from the Defense Nuclear Weapons School (DNWS) shares the school's history, mission, and the various courses it offers. He talks about the evolution of the school's focus from Cold War-era nuclear weapons to contemporary threats, the types of students who attend, and the unique courses available, including specialized training for first responders. Ragland also highlights the importance of the Nuclear Weapons Instructional Museum and the role of DNWS in enhancing nuclear education ...
Jun 17, 2025•35 min•Season 3Ep. 223
Major General (Ret.) Rick Evans shares the history and significance of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and the United States Strategic Command (STRATCOM), focusing on the evolution from Building 500 to the new Command and Control Facility (C2F). The conversation covers the historical context of SAC, the transition to STRATCOM, the necessity for a new facility, funding challenges, and the operational capabilities of the new C2F, highlighting its importance in national security. Major General, USA...
Jun 10, 2025•42 min•Season 3Ep. 222
In this episode of NucleCast, Adam speaks with Dr. Tom Karako from the Center for Strategic and International Studies about the Golden Dome initiative, a response to increasing air and missile threats. They discuss the initiative's purpose, its funding structure, and the importance of missile defense in national security. The conversation also covers the role of space in missile defense, critiques of the Golden Dome initiative, and the need for more capacity and sensors in the defense strategy. ...
Jun 03, 2025•33 min•Season 3Ep. 221
Dr. Stephen Nagy discusses Japan's strategic positioning in a complex geopolitical landscape, particularly in relation to the U.S.-China rivalry. He explores Japan's economic ties with China, the challenges posed by regional security threats, and the evolving strategies Japan is employing to navigate these issues. The conversation delves into Japan's historical pacifism, the potential for nuclear deterrence discussions, and the importance of trade agreements and technological cooperation in ensu...
May 27, 2025•33 min•Season 3Ep. 220
General VanHerck, former commander of U.S. Northern Command, shares his insights on deterrence, homeland defense, and the evolving threats facing the United States. He emphasizes the importance of cyber awareness, missile defense, and the need for a layered approach to national security. He also stresses the significance of relationships with allies and partners, the future of space defense, and the necessity for long-range strike capabilities and his wishes for a more agile defense acquisition ...
May 20, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 219
In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Tom Summers, the acting chairman of the Defense Nuclear Facility Safety Board (DNFSB). They discuss the DNFSB's mission to ensure safety in nuclear operations, the balance between safety and mission accomplishment, the challenges of aging infrastructure, and the board's commitment to modernization and technological advancements. Tom emphasizes the importance of safety oversight in the context of national security and the need for a next generation of...
May 13, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 218
Angela Sheffield, Director of Digital and AI Programs at SAIC, joins Adam to discuss the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into nuclear command and control (NC3) systems. They explore the challenges, opportunities, and the evolving landscape of AI technology in the context of national security. Angela emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific applications of AI, the need for collaboration within the nuclear community, and the potential for AI to enhance decision-making pr...
May 06, 2025•36 min•Season 3Ep. 217
Dr. Satoru Nagao discusses Japan's strategic views on the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in relation to China and the United States. The conversation explores Japan's concerns about China's growing influence, the importance of the Quad alliance, and the potential for Japan to consider nuclear capabilities in response to regional threats. Dr. Nagao emphasizes Japan's commitment to the US alliance while navigating complex relationships with neighboring countries, including South Korea and India...
Apr 29, 2025•36 min•Season 3Ep. 216
Jim Petrosky discusses the critical need for resilient energy infrastructure in the face of potential threats like EMP attacks in this episode. He explores the lessons learned from Europe's energy grid modernization, the future of nuclear power, and the challenges of public perception and political will surrounding nuclear energy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of small modular reactors and the need for a dynamic energy grid that can adapt to changing demands and threats. Dr. Petrosk...
Apr 22, 2025•35 min•Season 3Ep. 215
In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther and guest Rebecca Grant discuss the advancements in stealth technology , focusing on the B-21 Raider and the implications of Chinese military developments. They explore the dynamics of air power between the US and China, the importance of pilot proficiency, and the future of sixth-generation aircraft. The conversation emphasizes the need for the US to maintain its technological edge and adapt to evolving military challenges. Dr. Rebecca Grant is a ...
Apr 15, 2025•35 min•Season 3Ep. 214
James Graham Wilson explores the life and legacy of Paul Nitze, a pivotal figure in U.S. national security and Cold War history. This Legacy Series highlights Nitze's early life, his influential roles in shaping U.S. defense policy, and his lasting impact on strategic debates. The dialogue delves into Nitze's contributions during critical moments in history, including the Cold War and the Reagan administration, while also reflecting on the lessons learned for contemporary national security chall...
Apr 08, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 213
In this Future Series episode, Kris Osborn and Captain William Ostendorff discuss the critical aspects of nuclear deterrence, focusing on warhead modernization, technological advancements, and the importance of reliability in nuclear weapons. Captain Ostendorff shares insights from his extensive experience in the Navy and his roles in various nuclear security programs, emphasizing the complexities of today's geopolitical landscape and the need for a robust nuclear strategy. The discussion also h...
Apr 01, 2025•35 min•Season 3Ep. 212
In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam speaks with Lieutenant Colonel Gary Glover about the evolving landscape of the Air Force, particularly in relation to nuclear force design and modernization efforts. They discuss the importance of advanced education for military officers, the implications of hypersonic weapons on nuclear command and control, and the broader national security challenges facing the United States. Lieutenant Colonel Garrett Glover is the Chief of AFGSC Futures Division, Air F...
Mar 25, 2025•33 min•Season 3Ep. 211
In this episode of NUCLECAST, host Adam Lowther engages with Dr. Robert Kittinger to discuss various aspects of nuclear policy, including the importance of tritium production, the role of small modular reactors in military applications, and the interconnectedness of nuclear energy and weapons. They explore the implications of denuclearization and the need for a dedicated supply chain for nuclear components, while also addressing the historical context of nuclear deterrence and its significance i...
Mar 18, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 210
In this episode of NucleCast Future Series with Warrior Maven, Kris Osborn interviews James Howe on the critical issues surrounding nuclear deterrence, focusing on low yield nuclear weapons, the strategic arsenals of Russia and China, and the implications of advanced technologies in modern warfare. The conversation delves into the current state of nuclear capabilities, the risks posed by tactical nuclear weapons, and the future of strategic deterrence in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape...
Mar 11, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 209
In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Dave Trachtenberg about his report on missile defense. They discuss the need to move away from Cold War-era thinking regarding mutual vulnerability and the importance of defending the homeland against missile threats from adversaries like China and Russia. The conversation also covers the role of space in missile defense, necessary legislative changes, and future wishes for missile defense capabilities, including directed energy systems. The Honorabl...
Mar 04, 2025•33 min•Season 3Ep. 208
In this episode of NUCLECAST, Adam speaks with Dr. Rob Soofer, a senior fellow in the Forward Defense practice of the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, where he leads its Nuclear Strategy Project . They discuss the evolving threats from countries like North Korea, Russia, and China, and the need for a robust missile defense strategy that reassures allies and deters adversaries. Soofer emphasizes the necessity of a layered missile defense system and the challenges pos...
Feb 25, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 207
In this episode of NucleCast, Adam welcomes Chris Stone to discuss the recent executive order regarding the Iron Dome for America . They explore the implications of the order, the differences between the Israeli Iron Dome and the proposed American system, and the feasibility of developing a comprehensive missile defense system. The conversation also delves into budget considerations, the role of space in national defense, and innovative approaches to missile defense, emphasizing the urgency of a...
Feb 18, 2025•32 min•Season 3Ep. 206
Beth Rafferty, Vice President of Supply Chain and Logistics at Electric Boat, talks about the complexities of submarine construction and the challenges facing the industrial base. They discuss the current state of the submarine industrial base, the need for skilled labor, the impact of COVID-19 on supply chains, and the future of submarine production. Beth Rafferty was named Vice President of Supply Chain and Logistics in June 2021. In this position, she is responsible for the material and acqui...
Feb 11, 2025•29 min•Season 3Ep. 205
Adam engages with Professor Yohichiro Sato to explore the evolving security landscape in Asia, particularly from the Japanese perspective. The conversation delves into Japan's concerns regarding North Korea's nuclear ambitions, China's assertiveness in the region, and the implications for Japan's defense policies. Sato discusses the strong anti-nuclear sentiment in Japan, the potential reconsideration of nuclear weapons, and the importance of the US-Japan alliance in maintaining regional stabili...
Feb 04, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 204
In this episode of NucleCast, Adam and Dr. John Swegle discuss the implications of a recent missile attack in Ukraine, where an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) was used in a conventional capacity. They delve into the specifics of the attack, the characteristics of the missile, and the potential messaging and escalation dynamics involved. The conversation also touches on the broader implications for NATO and the future of nuclear and conventional warfare. Dr. John Swegle works as an ind...
Jan 28, 2025•36 min•Season 3Ep. 203
In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther engages with Guy Taylor, the national security editor at the Washington Times, to discuss the current state of global security amidst a significant transition of power in the U.S. They explore the implications of Trump's second term, the unpredictable nature of his administration, and the intersection of technology and national security. The conversation also delves into the pressing issue of balancing defense spending with entitlement programs, th...
Jan 21, 2025•38 min•Season 3Ep. 202
Michael Elliott talks about the intricate process of nuclear planning and outlines the eight-step nuclear planning process, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required from various military and intelligence agencies. He addresses common misconceptions about nuclear launch protocols, highlighting the rigorous safeguards in place to prevent unauthorized or accidental launches. The conversation provides valuable insights into the complexities of nuclear strategy and the importance of informed po...
Jan 14, 2025•33 min•Season 3Ep. 201
In this special 200th episode of NucleCast, Jill Hruby, the Administrator of NNSA and Undersecretary of the Department of Energy for Nuclear Security , discusses the achievements and challenges faced by NNSA during her tenure, including the modernization of nuclear weapons, strengthening international partnerships, and the importance of infrastructure projects. Jill shares insights on the Strategic Posture Commission 's recommendations, the plans for pit production, and the significance of the N...
Jan 07, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 200
Host Adam Lowther interviews retired Lieutenant General In-Bum Chun about the recent political turmoil in South Korea, including President Yoon 's declaration of martial law and the ongoing impeachment process. General Chun provides insights into the historical context of South Korean politics, the current political divide, and the implications of these events for the future of the country. He emphasizes the need for unity and support from the United States during this critical time. Lieutenant ...
Dec 16, 2024•36 min•Season 2Ep. 199
In this episode, Adam interviews Kris Osborn, a prominent defense journalist and president of the Center for Military Modernization. They discuss various topics including the U.S. nuclear posture, the implications of low yield weapons, advancements in digital engineering for defense acquisition, infrastructure challenges with the Sentinel and B-21 programs, cybersecurity in modern defense systems, China's military strategy, the ongoing Ukraine conflict, and the future of U.S. defense policy amid...
Dec 10, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 198
