Best ANWA Deterrence Center Podcasts (2025)

1
Angela Sheffield - AI and Nuclear Command: A New Era 36:03

2d ago36:03

36:03

Angela Sheffield, the 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 unde…

1
Dr. Satoru Nagao - The Quad Alliance: Japan's Counter to China 36:02

9d ago36:02

36:02

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. Nag…

1
James Petrosky, Ph.D.: Nuclear Power, The Future of Energy Security 34:44

16d ago34:44

34:44

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 …

1
Rebecca Grant, Ph.D. - Stealth Technology: The Future of Air Power 34:35

23d ago34:35

34:35

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. …

1
James Graham Wilson: The Legacy of Paul Nitze: A Cold Warrior's Journey 34:09

1M ago34:09

34:09

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 i…

1
The Honorable William Ostendorff - The Future of Warhead Modernization and Strategic Deterrence 34:39

1M ago34:39

34:39

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 nucle…

1
Lt. Col. Garrett Glover: Navigating the Future of Air Force Strategy 33:26

1M ago33:26

33:26

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, …

1
Robert Kittinger, Ph.D. - Tritium, Reactors and Nuclear Deterrence 31:10

2M ago31:10

31:10

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 t…

1
James R Howe: Nuclear Deterrence, A New Era 33:42

2M ago33:42

33:42

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 …

1
The Honorable David Trachtenberg: U.S. Missile Defense Priorities 33:14

2M ago33:14

33:14

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 …

1
Rob Soofer, Ph.D. - Defending the Homeland: The Case for Missile Defense 34:21

2M ago34:21

34:21

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 defe…

1
Christopher Stone: Iron Dome for America 32:02

3M ago32:02

32:02

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 als…

1
Beth Rafferty - Building the Next Generation of Submarines 28:59

3M ago28:59

28:59

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 producti…

1
Japan's Nuclear Dilemma: A Public Perspective 33:36

3M ago33:36

33:36

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-nuc…

1
John Swegle, Ph.D. - Putin's Message: Escalation or Deterrence? 36:00

3M ago36:00

36:00

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. …

1
Guy Taylor: The Impact of Trump and Technology on Global Security 37:48

4M ago37:48

37:48

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…

1
Michael Elliott: The Intricacies of Nuclear Planning and Operations 33:12

4M ago33:12

33:12

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 unauth…

1
Jill Hruby: NNSA's Journey: Achievements and Future Challenges 34:10

4M ago34:10

34:10

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 infrastructu…

1
In-Bum Chun: Understanding the Political Crisis in South Korea 35:58

5M ago35:58

35:58

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 t…

1
Kris Osborn: Navigating Modern Defense 35:22

5M ago35:22

35:22

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 …

1
General Rand: The Critical Role of Personnel in U.S. Air Force's Strategic Deterrent 33:22

5M ago33:22

33:22

In this conversation, General Retired Robin Rand discusses the critical role of personnel in maintaining the U.S. Air Force's strategic deterrent capabilities. He highlights the challenges of operating and maintaining aging military assets, the importance of leadership and motivation in harsh conditions, and the evolving training processes for pilo…

1
Tim Nank: The Evolution and Implications of Tactical Nuclear Weapons 33:03

5M ago33:03

33:03

Tim Nank, a former Naval Intelligence Officer, discusses the complexities and implications of tactical nuclear weapons. He explores the evolution, advantages, and potential use of these weapons in modern warfare, as well as the perceptions surrounding their effects. The conversation delves into the geopolitical landscape, the need for public educat…

1
Gen (Ret.) Robin Rand: Oklahoma Aerospace & Defense Innovation Institute (OADII) 35:40

6M ago35:40

35:40

Jim Howe hosts Gen (Ret.) Robin Rand, the Executive Director of Oklahoma Aerospace & Defense Innovation Institute (OADII) where they discuss the establishment of OADII and it's research is accelerating critical results for our nations security. In his role, General Rand is the lead executive for the University of Oklahoma’s institute that concentra…

1
Aaron Holland: A Personal Journey in the Nuclear Field 35:51

6M ago35:51

35:51

Aaron Holland, a passionate young scholar in the field of nuclear deterrence, shares his journey from a master's student to a PhD candidate, discussing the complexities of nuclear strategy and the challenges he faced in military recruitment. He emphasizes the importance of networking, mentorship, and resilience in pursuing a career in the nuclear f…

1
Robert Peters: Escalation; A Tool for Deterrence 36:30

6M ago36:30

36:30

In this episode of NucleCast, Bob Peters discusses the often-misunderstood concept of escalation in national security. He explores how escalation is perceived negatively by many national security professionals, leading to a risk-averse approach that can undermine deterrence. Peters argues that the U.S. needs to embrace escalation as a strategic too…

1
Zak Kallenborn: AI safety Legislation and Autonomous Drones: A New Era in Combat 36:47

6M ago36:47

36:47

In this episode of NucleCast, Zak Kallenborn discusses the implications of AI legislation, particularly California's SB 1047, and its intersection with national security and weapons proliferation. He explores the potential risks of AI in biological research and the challenges of regulating such technologies. The conversation shifts to the evolving …

1
General (Ret) Robin Rand: A Fighter Pilot's Journey to Commander of AF Global Strike Command 38:50

7M ago38:50

38:50

In this episode of NucleCast, host Jim Howe interviews General Robin Rand, a recently retired Air Force general with a remarkable 40-year career. The conversation covers General Rand's early influences, his journey through flight training, and his various global assignments during pivotal moments in history, including the Cold War and the aftermath…

1
Robert Peters: Deterrence and the Israeli Response 34:29

7M ago34:29

34:29

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam Lowther and Bob Peters discuss the implications of the October 7th anniversary, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Israel and the broader Middle East. They explore the failures of deterrence leading up to the attack, the complexities of Iran's nuclear ambitions, and the evolving dynamics between Israel and its Ar…

1
Christopher Stone: Dynamic Parity, Arms Control, and Military Strategy 38:06

7M ago38:06

38:06

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam and Chris Stone engage in a deep discussion about the concept of dynamic parity in nuclear deterrence. They explore the implications of parity versus superiority in military strategy, the challenges of arms control, and the political landscape affecting defense spending. The conversation highlights the need for mo…

1
Capt. (Ret.) Brad Baker - Nuclear Propulsion, Merging Energetics, and Additive Manufacturing 32:45

7M ago32:45

32:45

Captain Retired Brad Baker discusses the development of the nuclear engineering program at the U.S. Naval Academy and the recruitment of nuclear propulsion officers. He emphasizes the importance of technical training and the opportunities available in the Navy for those with a nuclear engineering background. Brad also talks about the additive manuf…

1
Adam Lowther, Ph.D. - The Need for Dynamic Parity 33:37

8M ago33:37

33:37

Dr. Adam Lowther joins guest host, Jim Howe, to discuss the current state of America's nuclear deterrent and proposes a new approach called Dynamic Parity. He explains that Dynamic Parity aims to create a balance of nuclear capability between the US and autocratic regimes, prevent superiority of adversaries, enhance extended deterrence, and manage …

1
Richard Fisher: China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, A Dangerous Alliance 38:50

8M ago38:50

38:50

In this episode of NucleCast, Rick Fisher, senior fellow with the International Assessment and Strategy Center, talks about the current state of North Korea's nuclear program. Fisher predicts that by the mid-2030s, North Korea will have the ability to conduct a catastrophic first strike against the United States. He credits the work of other expert…

1
Major David Phillips - Taking Bold Action for Strategic Stability in East Asia 33:58

8M ago33:58

33:58

Major David Phillips discusses his article on the feasibility, acceptability, and suitability of redeploying non-strategic nuclear weapons to South Korea. He highlights the need for the US to re-examine its policy goal of achieving denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and suggests that the redeployment of nuclear weapons would strengthen deterr…

1
Lieutenant General James Kowalski, USAF (Ret) Part 2 - Challenges and Accomplishments of Air Force Global Strike Command 39:29

8M ago39:29

39:29

Part 2 of this history of Air Force Global Strike Command features former Commander Jim Kowalski. He discusses the challenges and accomplishments of standing up the Global Strike Command. The conversation covers topics such as basing decisions, culture change, resourcing, and the importance of maintaining a strong nuclear force. Lt. Gen. Kowalski e…

1
Lieutenant General James Kowalski, USAF (Ret) Part 1 - The Creation of Air Force Global Strike Command 35:51

8M ago35:51

35:51

In this Legacy Series, Lt. Gen. James Kowalski discusses the creation of Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) in response to incidents that highlighted the need for improved nuclear enterprise management. The incidents included the accidental shipment of warheads and fuses, which raised concerns about operational oversight and surety processes. …

1
Lucian Niemeyer: Promoting Advanced Nuclear Reactor Deployment 36:07

8M ago36:07

36:07

The Honorable Lucian Niemeyer, a leading voice in the policymaking community for advanced nuclear capabilities, discusses the work of the United Coalition for Advanced Nuclear Power (UCAN Power), a non-profit entity since 2021, in promoting advanced nuclear reactor deployment. He emphasizes the importance of nuclear power for grid reliability and c…

1
Andrew Metrick and Philip Sheers - Escalation Management in a Protracted War 38:45

9M ago38:45

38:45

Guest host, Jim Howe, interviews Andrew Metrick and Phil Shears from the Center for New American Security (CNAS) on escalation management in a protracted war with China. They discuss the implications of a potential conflict with China and the need for the US to adapt its deterrence strategies. The researchers conducted tabletop exercises to explore…

1
Fei-Ling Wang, Ph.D. - China Transforming the World Order 32:34

9M ago32:34

32:34

Professor Fei-Ling Wang tells NucleCast about his new book, 'The China Race: Global Competition for Alternative World Orders.' He argues that the United States and China are engaged in a global competition that goes beyond relative power and influence. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) seeks to transform the world order into a hierarchical system w…

1
Bryan Clark - Rethinking the Approach to Deterrence: The Need for Force Design Planning 34:33

9M ago34:33

34:33

In this episode of NucleCast, Bryan Clark, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, talks about the challenges and implications of nuclear modernization. They discuss the growing threats from China, Russia, and other countries, and the need for the United States to rethink its approach to deterrence. They also explore the budget constraints and acq…

1
Bruce Klingner - Recent Developments in U.S.-South Korea Relations 38:36

9M ago38:36

38:36

Bruce Klingner is a Senior Fellow at the Heritage Foundation and an expert on South Korea and North Korea. He discusses the recent developments in the relationship between the United States and South Korea, including the Washington declaration and the NATO summit. He also explores the topic of South Korea's potential nuclearization and the level of…

1
Dave Jonas and Patrick Rhoads - The Challenges of Nuclear Disarmament 35:11

10M ago35:11

35:11

In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam interviews Pat Rhoads and Dave Jonas, who have been writing a series of articles on nuclear issues. They discuss the strategic environment, the potential for nuclear disarmament, and the challenges of nuclear modernization. David S. Jonas is a partner at the law firm of Fluet, Huber & Hoang (FH+H). His practi…

1
Jonathan Ventura - Unlocking Opportunities: Bringing Talent to the National Security Field 34:42

10M ago34:42

34:42

Jonathan Ventura, a career coach at Montana State University, discusses his efforts to bring talented students into the nuclear weapons complex and national security field. He emphasizes the importance of helping students understand the wide range of opportunities available to them, regardless of their academic discipline. Ventura also highlights t…

1
Jeremy Prichard - The History of 20th Air Force 38:06

10M ago38:06

38:06

Dr. Jeremy Prichard, the command historian at 20th Air Force, discusses the history of 20th Air Force, its origins, transition to the ICBM force, and the challenges faced in fielding the ICBMs. He also shares insights on the Minuteman 3 deployment, the Peacekeeper, and the challenges of modernizing the infrastructure for the Sentinel program. Dr. J…

1
Lindell Lucy - The Journey From Teacher to Nuclear Deterrence Advocate 37:35

10M ago37:35

37:35

Lindell Lucy shares his journey from teaching history in Hawaii to becoming interested in nuclear weapons and international security, particularly in the context of Taiwan's geopolitical situation. He discusses the need for nuclear deterrence and the potential acquisition of nuclear weapons by Taiwan as a means of self-defense against China's coerc…

1
Muhammad Faisal - Pakistan's Nuclear Program 34:22

11M ago34:22

34:22

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Mohammed Faisal about Pakistan's nuclear program. Faisal provides a brief history of Pakistan's nuclear program, starting from the 1960s when Pakistan and India went to war over Kashmir. He explains that Pakistan's decision to pursue a nuclear option was driven by the perceived threat from India and the…

1
Maj. Gen. Stacy Jo Huser - 20th Air Force: Capabilities and Opportunities 33:28

11M ago33:28

33:28

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Major General Stacey Huser, the 20th Air Force Commander, about the capabilities and challenges of the ICBM leg of the nuclear triad. They discuss the history of 20th Air Force, the aging Minuteman III missiles, and the importance of maintaining and sustaining the system. They also talk about the change…

1
B.G. (Ret.) Gregory S. Bowen - The Importance of Hedging 36:44

11M ago36:44

36:44

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Brigadier General Retired Greg Bowen about hedging in nuclear conflicts. They discuss the importance of hedging as a strategy to quickly react to unforeseen events in a conflict. They also emphasize the need for the president to have multiple options and tools in the toolkit to deal with different scena…

1
Bruce Tarter - LLNL's Technology, the Development of Nuclear Weapons, and the Era of Stockpile Stewardship 36:38

11M ago36:38

36:38

Bruce Tarter is Director Emeritus of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and was the eighth director to lead the Laboratory since it was founded in 1952. This episode covers the history and influence of the lab's technology on policy and strategy, the development of nuclear weapons, and the era of stockpile stewardship. It also delves into t…

1
Thomas Ramos - The Importance of Capturing History to Inform Current Threats 33:16

12M ago33:16

33:16

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Tom Ramos, a physicist at Lawrence Livermore National Lab, about the relevance of the early years of the Cold War to today's national security challenges. They discuss the lessons learned from the past and how they can inform our approach to handling current threats from Russia and China. They emphasize…

1
William Hennigan - Bringing Nuclear Issues to the Forefront for Everyday People 34:19

12M ago34:19

34:19

William Hennigan, national security correspondent for the New York Times Opinion Section, discusses his series of articles on nuclear issues and the motivation behind them. He highlights the convergence of events such as modernization efforts, arms control treaties, and the war in Ukraine that prompted the New York Times to focus on nuclear issues.…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

ANWA Deterrence Center Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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