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by American Museum of Science and Energy
Produced from the American Museum of Science and Energy, AMSEcast invites guests from the world of science, literature, and technology to share unique perspectives from the realm of the highly trained and curiously minded.
Latest Episodes
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- 2 weeks ago1h 3m
Creating The Nuclear Navy: AMSEcast with Paul Cantonwine
On this episode of AMSEcast, host and American Museum of Science and Energy executive director Alan Lowe sits to chat with Paul Cantonwine, author of "The Never-Ending Challenge of Engineering: Admiral H.G. Rickover in His Own Words" to discuss the creation of the nuclear navy through the eyes of H.G. Rickover, and what his mentality might be like in today's ever-changing world.
- 4 weeks ago54 min
The Science of Presidency: AMSEcast with Andrew Busch
On this episode of AMSEcast, host and AMSE executive director Alan Lowe discusses the science of a presidency with Andrew Busch, the associate director and professor at the Institute of American Civics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The episode goes in depth to analyze the behaviors of not only the American political system, but also its presidents, and how they have operated throughout different political climates and times in history.
- May 6, 202627 min
The Nuclear Navy: AMSEcast with Lawrence Townsend
On this episode of AMSEcast, host Alan Lowe sat down with Lawrence Townsend to discuss the past, present, and future of America's nuclear navy, including what our advancements in technology throughout the country might mean going forward.
- Apr 22, 202628 min
Less Weapons, More Energy: AMSEcast With Charles Oppenheimer
On this episode of AMSEcast, host Alan Lowe welcomes Charles Oppenheimer, entrepreneur and grandson of J. Robert Oppenheimer, for a wide-ranging conversation on nuclear energy, global security, and the legacy of one of the 20th century's most influential scientists. Oppenheimer discusses the mission of the Oppenheimer Project, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing his grandfather's values through increased international cooperation on nuclear technology. He explains the organization's dual focus: expanding the beneficial uses of nuclear fission (especially clean energy) and reducing the risks posed by nuclear weapons. Emphasizing "energy abundance," he argues that nuclear power can play a major role in addressing climate change and global poverty if financing and project risks can be overcome. The conversation explores persistent public misconceptions about nuclear safety, the challenges emerging economies face in adopting nuclear energy, and the growing appetite among investors to fund large-scale nuclear projects. Oppenheimer also outlines his advocacy for renewed international arms control dialogue, particularly among the United States, China, and Russia. The episode concludes with reflections on the 2023 film Oppenheimer, including Oppenheimer's thoughts on Cillian Murphy's portrayal of his grandfather and recommended readings for those who want to continue pursuing historical understanding.
- Apr 8, 202637 min
AMSEcast Geoff deBeauclair
AMSEcast launches a new series exploring America's nuclear navy and Oak Ridge's vital role in its history and future. From helping shape the legacy of Admiral Hyman G. Rickover to supplying nuclear fuel for today's fleet, Oak Ridge has long stood at the center of U.S. naval nuclear power. As the American Museum of Science and Energy prepares a new exhibit at the Wilcox K-25 Interpretive Center, this episode sets the stage. Our inaugural guest, Geoffrey deBeauclair, is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and a 30-year Navy veteran who commanded a ballistic missile submarine and later led the Newport Division of the Naval Undersea Warfare Center. He shares his journey into the Navy's Nuclear Power Program, the demanding training and qualification process, and what it means to command a submarine at sea. Geoff offers a rare look inside daily life underwater, from relentless drills and rotating watch schedules to crew traditions, leadership challenges, and staying connected with family during long patrols. It's a compelling introduction to the people, discipline, and mission behind America's nuclear navy.
- Mar 26, 202624 min
AMSEcast with guest Michelle Shocklee
Author Michelle Shocklee discusses her novel The Women of Oak Ridge and the personal, historical, and emotional paths that led her to the story of the Secret City during the Manhattan Project. Growing up near Los Alamos and coming from a World War II family shaped her long-standing connection to the era, but a chance encounter with a reader ultimately sparked her discovery of Oak Ridge. Shocklee describes her deep research process, drawing on oral histories, archival photographs, museum resources, and firsthand accounts to authentically portray life inside a city built on secrecy. She explains how she weaves history into fiction by grounding the narrative in the lived experiences of her characters, particularly women whose wartime work reshaped their futures. The conversation highlights the challenges of secrecy, segregation, and stress faced by Oak Ridge residents, as well as the lasting impact of women entering the workforce during the war. Ultimately, Shocklee reflects on Oak Ridge as both a hidden chapter of history and a powerful source of human resilience and transformation.
- Mar 11, 202622 min
The Secrets of Gravity: AMSEcast with James Riordon
In this episode of AMSEcast, host Alan Lowe welcomes back science journalist and NASA senior science writer James Riordon to discuss his new book Crush: Close Encounters With Gravity. Riordon explores the fascinating science of gravity, from Isaac Newton's groundbreaking laws to Albert Einstein's revolutionary theory of general relativity. The conversation dives into how gravity shapes everything from the structure of Earth to the behavior of black holes and gravitational waves. Riordon also explains the strange effects of weightlessness on the human body, the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy, and the possibility of exotic phenomena like wormholes. Blending history, physics, and cutting-edge discoveries, this episode offers an accessible look at one of the universe's most fundamental forces and the scientists who helped us understand it.
- Mar 5, 202612 min
AMSEcast with guest Dr. Sam Schrell
In this episode of AMSECast, Dr. Samantha Schrell explores the fascinating and often mysterious world of actinides—rare, radioactive elements with powerful applications in medicine, energy, space exploration, and national security. She explains what makes actinides unique, why they are difficult to study, and how elements like californium play a critical role in starting nuclear reactors and powering space missions. Dr. Schrell also discusses Oak Ridge National Laboratory's long-standing leadership in producing and researching heavy actinides through the High Flux Isotope Reactor. The conversation highlights the mission of the Glenn T. Seaborg Institute: building a pipeline of scientists and engineers trained to work in this highly specialized field. Through fellowships, collaboration across national labs, and cutting-edge research, the Institute is ensuring the future of actinide science. Ultimately, the episode reveals how curiosity, expertise, and education drive innovation at the atomic edge.
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