AMSEcast

Alan Lowe speaks with Dr. Simon Cordery about the transformative role of railroads in American history. From the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in 1828 to a national network by 1916, Cordery details how rail shaped commerce, industry, and infrastructure. He also explores regulation, from early oversight efforts to the 1980 Staggers Act, which revitalized the struggling industry. The conversation touches on Amtrak's dependence on subsidies, the challenges of expansion, and the promise of high-speed rail. Cordery also previews his book on Albert Pullman, a largely forgotten innovator behind the Pullman Company's early success and a symbol of overlooked entrepreneurial ambition.     Guest Bio Dr. Simon Cordery is Chair of the History Department at Iowa State University and a leading scholar of American labor and transportation history. He previously served as department chair at Western Illinois University and Monmouth College. Dr. Cordery has authored several acclaimed books, including Mother Jones: Raising Cain and Consciousness and The Iron Road in the Prairie State: The Story of Illinois Railroading. His forthcoming work, Gilded Age Entrepreneur: The Curious Life of American Financier Albert Benton Pullman, explores the overlooked legacy of the elder Pullman brother and offers fresh insight into the entrepreneurial spirit of 19th-century America.     Show Highlights (2:14) When railroads first arrived in America and how quickly they spread (6:18) Changes in the business world that supported and continued railroad expansion (7:16) The impact of government oversight as the industry develops (14:47) When deregulation of the railroad industry occurred and the effects it had (19:46) The effects railroads had on labor organization and the labor market in America (22:32) How railroad expansion affected how we keep time throughout the U.S. (24:28) The effect of digital technology on the American railroad industry (31:47) Is high-speed rail a profitable enterprise? (35:23) Simon Cordery's upcoming book, Gilded Age Entrepreneur: The Curious Life of American Financier Albert Benton Pullman     Links Referenced Mother Jones: Raising Cain and Consciousness: https://www.amazon.com/Mother-Jones-Raising-Consciousness-Biography/dp/0826348106   The Iron Road in the Prairie State: The Story of Illinois Railroading: https://www.amazon.com/Iron-Road-Prairie-State-Railroading-ebook/dp/B017SJ126Q   Gilded Age Entrepreneur: The Curious Life of American Financier Albert Benton Pullman: https://www.amazon.com/Gilded-Age-Entrepreneur-American-Financier-ebook/dp/B0DVMQHYWP

Alan talks with historian Walter Borneman about his book MacArthur at War: World War II in the Pacific. They examine General Douglas MacArthur's early career, his leadership in the Philippines, and his strategic command from Australia. Borneman discusses MacArthur's evolving coordination with the Navy, his key role in island-hopping operations, and his push to reclaim the Philippines. They also explore MacArthur's late awareness of the atomic bomb, his post-war leadership as Supreme Commander in Japan, and his legacy as a pioneering military strategist and symbol of American resolve during World War II.     Guest Bio Walter Borneman is an award-winning historian and author with a passion for bringing pivotal moments in American history to life. He earned his history degree from Western State College of Colorado and a law degree from the University of Denver. Borneman is the author of several acclaimed books, including The Admirals: Nimitz, Halsey, Leahy, and King and Polk: The Man Who Transformed the Presidency and America.     Show Highlights (1:22) Why MacArthur assumed the role of Field Marshal in the army of the Philippines (7:36) The evolution of MacArthur's role in Australia and the Pacific Command (12:24) MacArthur's role in formulating and then implementing the island-hopping plan (15:07) Why Walter thinks the Battle of Leyte Gulf may have been the greatest victory ever won by the United States Navy (17:39) MacArthur's role in planning the invasion of the Japanese home islands (20:05) When he learned about the atomic bomb and his views on its use in the war (22:13) Why he was appointed the supreme commander of the Allied powers in Japan (25:22) How Walter Boneman would define MacArthur's legacy in World War II (27:20) What Walter is working on next     Links Referenced The Admirals: Nimitz, Halsey, Leahy, and King: https://www.amazon.com/Admirals-Nimitz-Halsey-King-Five-Star-ebook/dp/B007ME5GYC Polk: The Man Who Transformed the Presidency and America: https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Man-Transformed-Presidency-America-ebook/dp/B0026772GK/ MacArthur at War: World War II in the Pacific: https://www.amazon.com/MacArthur-War-World-II-Pacific-ebook/dp/B0151YQV20/ American POTUS: https://americanpotus.org/

Given the centrality of uranium to the story of the Manhattan Project, the creation of Oak Ridge, and the ongoing nuclear renaissance, I thought it would be good to learn more about that element, so I spoke on our podcast, AMSEcast, with Tom Zoellner about his fascinating book, Uranium: War, Energy, and the Rock that Shaped the World. I started by asking why uranium is so unique and so suited to creating the chain reactions that are central to both nuclear energy production and the workings of nuclear weapons.

Alan Lowe speaks with Dr. Margaret Weitekamp of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum about its transformation ahead of America's 250th anniversary. They explore how new exhibits, immersive storytelling, and iconic artifacts like the Wright Flyer, Space Shuttle Discovery, and Neil Armstrong's spacesuit bring aviation and space history to life. Weitekamp discusses the museum's role as both a public institution and research center, preserving innovations from early flight to modern space exploration. She also reflects on international collaboration, private sector contributions, and how triumph and tragedy alike shape our understanding of humanity's journey beyond Earth.     Guest Bio Dr. Margaret Weitekamp is the curator and department chair of the space history department at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. She holds a BA from the University of Pittsburgh and earned her MA and PhD in history from Cornell University. A former Mellon Fellow in the humanities, she also served as the American Historical Association's NASA Aerospace History Fellow at NASA Headquarters. Since joining the museum in 2004, she has led major curatorial efforts and became department chair in 2019. Dr. Weitekamp is a widely published author, including Space Craze and Spaceships: An Illustrated History of the Real and the Imagined.     Show Highlights (2:09) The goals of the renovation and when it's going to be completed (6:28) The Udvar-Hazy Center (8:09) What Margaret Weitekamp does at the National Air and Space Museum (10:49) Key moments of American flight innovation documented at the museum (18:50) Artifacts on display that tell the story of American innovation in getting to the moon (22:12) The space shuttle's impact on our understanding of Earth and space (25:58) How the museum communicates with NASA about adding to their collection (29:32) The role of international competition versus collaboration in forwarding innovation (32:48) The private sector's role in space innovation and how the museum interacts with it (34:57) How satellites are used and what American innovations have contributed to them (38:35) The way the Air and Space Museum teaches about unmanned missions like Voyager (41:13) What we've learned from past mistakes, such as the Challenger explosion (44:59) What's made the biggest impression on Margaret since she's been at the museum (47:11) What we should keep in mind when looking at the next 250 years of space innovation (49:51) How to follow what's going on at the National Air and Space Museum     Links Referenced Spaceships: An Illustrated History of the Real and the Imagined: https://www.amazon.com/Spaceships-2nd-Illustrated-History-Imagined/dp/1588347265/ Space Craze, America's Enduring Fascination With Real and Imagined Space Flight: https://www.amazon.com/Space-Craze-Americas-Fascination-Spaceflight/dp/1588347257 National Air and Space Museum: https://airandspace.si.edu  

Kathleen Carlucci, director of the Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park, joins AMSEcast to discuss Edison's lasting impact on American innovation. From his early love of telegraphy to his system-wide inventions in sound, light, and film, Edison redefined how ideas were developed and assembled skilled teams in the world's first “invention factory.” Carlucci highlights his resilience, collaborative spirit, and ability to turn failure into progress. Visitors to the Center can explore original artifacts, interactive exhibits, and hands-on demonstrations that bring Edison's legacy to life, reminding us that with perseverance, innovation is within anyone's reach.     Guest Bio Kathleen Carlucci is the Director of the Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park, where she leads efforts to preserve and share the legacy of one of America's greatest inventors. With degrees in history and secondary education, she combines her passion for storytelling with a strong background in management and customer service. Kathleen has played a key role in enhancing the museum experience through engaging tours, educational programs, and community outreach. Her work ensures that visitors of all ages connect with Thomas Edison's innovations and are inspired by his enduring message of curiosity, perseverance, and the power of hands-on learning.     Show Highlights (1:14) Edison's process for thinking up ideas and bringing them to fruition (2:40) How Edison overcame hearing loss to accomplish so much (3:42) Edison's improvements to the telegraph and telephone (6:36) How Edison organized and staffed his Menlo Park lab (9:51) Why he moved to West Orange, NJ, and what became of Menlo Park (12:28) Edison's work with light bulbs, motion picture technology, and batteries (19:03) What Edison would do when he hit a wall on a project (20:39) Lessons from Menlo Park that future innovators should learn (22:43) What a tour of the Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park includes     Links Referenced Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park: https://www.menloparkmuseum.org/

Dr. Josh Levy is a historian of science and technology at the Library of Congress. In this episode of AMSEcast, he highlights key figures and artifacts from all across America's innovation history. From Samuel Morse's early telegraph designs to George Washington Carver's advocacy for sustainable farming, Levy reveals stories of invention and resilience. He also discusses aviation pioneer Lt. Thomas Selfridge and Claude Shannon's groundbreaking work in information theory. Josh and Alan finish with Gladys West, whose geoid calculations became foundational for GPS. Her later recognition reflects how major technological advances often depend on unsung, collaborative contributions across generations.     Guest Bio Dr. Josh Levy is the historian of science and technology in the Manuscript Division at the Library of Congress, where he helps uncover and share the stories behind key figures in American innovation. He holds a Ph.D. in History from the University of Illinois and brings years of teaching experience at both high school and college levels, including the University of South Florida, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and the College of Micronesia. Since joining the Library of Congress in 2020, Dr. Levy has curated collections that illuminate the complex, collaborative nature of scientific and technological breakthroughs.     Show Highlights (1:50) What led Samuel Morse to invent the telegraph (4:03) Morse's letter regarding the telegraph (7:36) Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver (8:47) Carver's letter to John Washington, Booker T. Washington's brother (12:02) Alfred Graham Bell's interest in aviation (15:02) Thomas Selfridge (17:28) Claude Shannon, the Father of the Information Age (18:46) Shannon's schematic of Theseus, the maze-solving robotic mouse (20:11) Gladys West's impact on GPS technology     Links Referenced Library of Congress website: https://loc.gov For specific questions about manuscripts at the Library of Congress: https://ask.loc.gov/manuscripts

Alan is joined by Peter Armstrong, president of Mystic Seaport Museum, to continue our celebration of 250 years of American innovation. Peter reflects on his 25 years in museum leadership and shares insights into Mystic's long shipbuilding history. The museum, the largest maritime museum in the U.S., features historic vessels like the Charles W. Morgan, clipper ships, and a converted diesel-electric steamboat. From Fresnel lenses to nuclear submarines, Peter highlights how the museum preserves maritime heritage while embracing modern innovation.     Guest Bio Peter Armstrong has been president of Mystic Seaport Museum since 2020, the largest maritime museum in the United States. With over 25 years in museum leadership, Peter previously served as senior director of museum operations and education at the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation. Before moving to the U.S., he held key roles at the UK's National Museum of Arms and Armor, which includes iconic sites like the Tower of London. Peter brings a deep passion for history, education, and preservation to every project, making him a leading voice in connecting heritage with innovation.     Show Highlights (1:30) How Mystic became a hub for shipping and shipbuilding (3:02) What you can see and do at the Mystic Seaport Museum (5:55) What makes whaling ships and clipper ships different from any other types of ships (9:26) When and how steamboat technology made its way to the United States (14:00) How the Fresnel lens revolutionized lighthouses (15:34) Where America builds its ships today (17:53) Where you can learn more about the Mystic Seaport Museum     Links Referenced Website: https://mysticseaport.org  

AMSEcast continues celebrating 250 years of American innovation with Curtis Gregory. A park ranger at the George Washington Carver National Monument, Curtis sits down with Alan to share Carver's inspiring journey from enslavement to becoming a pioneering scientist and educator who transformed Southern agriculture. Known for promoting peanuts and sweet potatoes as sustainable crops, Carver created hundreds of uses for them! Beyond his lab, he educated rural farmers through lectures, pamphlets, and the innovative Jesup Wagon. His legacy endures in food security and agricultural education. Visitors can explore his story at the Carver Monument in Diamond, Missouri.     Guest Bio Curtis Gregory is a longtime park ranger at the George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond, Missouri, where he has shared Carver's legacy with visitors for nearly 20 years. With deep knowledge and passion, Curtis brings to life the story of George Washington Carver—scientist, educator, and agricultural innovator—highlighting his contributions to sustainability, food security, and education. As a dedicated steward of this historic site, Curtis helps connect the past to the present, inspiring new generations through Carver's enduring impact. We're thrilled to have Curtis join us on AMSEcast to celebrate the remarkable life and innovations of one of America's greatest minds.     Show Highlights (2:00) How George Washington Carve went from being born a slave to a professor by 30 (6:53) The state of agriculture in the South when Carver arrived at Tuskegee (8:25) What led him to the peanut in the first place (10:45) George Washington Carver's innovations with the sweet potato (15:51) His impact on agriculture in the South and nationwide (17:12) What to expect at the George Washington Carver National Monument     Links Referenced Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWashingtonCarverNM/ X: https://twitter.com/gwcarvernps Website: https://www.nps.gov/gwca/index.htm

Alan speaks with Dr. Guru Madhavan at the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, DC, as we continue our series marking 250 years of American innovation. Guru, a leader at the National Academy of Engineering, explores the Academy's Civil War origins, its lasting role in advising the U.S. government, and its influence on everything from compass design to pandemic response. He discusses how innovation must balance bold ideas with long-term systems like sanitation and maintenance. Calling for a “deep time” perspective, Guru urges us to value resilience, inclusivity, and the often-unseen foundations that truly sustain progress.     Guest Bio Dr. Guru Madhavan is the Norman Augustine Senior Scholar and Senior Director of Programs at the National Academy of Engineering. With a background in biomedical engineering (MS, PhD) and an MBA from the State University of New York, he previously led innovations in the medical device industry before turning his focus to national science and engineering policy. He is the acclaimed author of Applied Minds: How Engineers Think and Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World. A valued member of AMSE's National Advisory Committee, Guru was honored with the 2024 AMSE Foundation National Excellence Award for his outstanding contributions.     Show Highlights (1:54) An introduction to the National Academy of Sciences (7:59) Lincoln's impact on the sciences in the United States (11:06) How Vannevar Bush's principles from Science: The Endless Frontier are implemented (19:30) The impact the arts are having on STEM (20:13) How the National Academies have supported and encouraged innovation (24:10) Guru's list of most important American innovations (30:23) The frameworks and institutions that have supported America's innovations (37:51) The United States and the ideology of innovation (43:27) Using deep time to gain perspective on innovation     Links Referenced Applied Minds: How Engineers Think: https://www.amazon.com/Applied-Minds-how-Engineers-Think/dp/039335301X Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World: https://www.amazon.com/Wicked-Problems-Engineer-Better-World/dp/0393651460  

AMSEcast celebrates 250 years of American innovation with Dr. Andrew Hammond, historian and curator at the International Spy Museum. Hammond explores the evolution of intelligence and espionage, from trial-and-error codebreaking by pioneers like the Friedmans to today's cutting-edge technology. He highlights cryptographic breakthroughs, spy tools, and covert communication methods like one-time pads and suitcase radios. The conversation traces the U.S.'s rise as a global intelligence leader, fueled by Cold War innovation and British collaboration. Stories like the CIA's Glomar Explorer mission illustrate the secrecy and complexity of spycraft. Hammond also hosts SpyCast, sharing these stories with a global audience.     Guest Bio Dr. Andrew Hammond is the historian and curator at the International Spy Museum in Washington, DC. He has held teaching positions and fellowships at esteemed institutions, including the British Library, the Library of Congress, and the 9/11 Memorial Museum. A veteran of the Royal Air Force with assignments to the British Army and Royal Navy, he brings deep expertise in intelligence and national security. Dr. Hammond is also a fellow at the Global National Security Institute and the author of the upcoming book Struggles for Freedom: Afghanistan and US Foreign Policy Since 1979.     Show Highlights (1:52) About the International Spy Museum (5:01) How the U.S. has found information about adversaries in the past (10:54) Tools that can be found in the museum (14:03) The difference between a spy and an agent (17:04) Popular examples of field weapons and how the museum documents them (19:17) Sabotage tools developed in the U.S. and used by American spies (25:53) How the Enigma machine helped crack German and Japanese codes in WWII (29:05) How men and women are represented at the museum (36:22) Spycraft innovations that have made it into public life (43:31) SpyCast, the museum's official podcast     Links Referenced Struggles for Freedom: Afghanistan and US Foreign Policy Since 1979: https://www.amazon.com/Struggles-Freedom-Afghanistan-Foreign-Policy/dp/1474405460 SpyCast: https://www.spymuseum.org/podcast/

We continue to celebrate 250 years of American innovation with Don Bennett, Deputy Associate Director of the U.S. Mint's Manufacturing Directorate. He joins Alan on this episode of AMSEcast to talk about the Mint's history, operations, and cutting-edge advancements. With facilities in Philadelphia, Denver, West Point, and San Francisco, the Mint produces coins using robotics, high-speed presses, and laser die processing. Don discusses the importance of physical currency, the American Innovation Dollar Coin Program, and upcoming designs for the nation's 250th anniversary. This episode is made possible with support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.     Guest Bio Don Bennett is the Deputy Associate Director of the U.S. Mint's Manufacturing Directorate, bringing over 30 years of experience in manufacturing, supply chain management, and process improvement. Before joining the Mint in 2008, he held key roles at Oasis Corporation and Pinnacle Data Systems. At the Mint, Don helps oversee coin production across multiple facilities, ensuring efficiency and innovation in minting processes. His expertise spans high-speed manufacturing, precision engineering, and operational strategy. Passionate about both the art and science of coin production, Don plays a vital role in shaping the future of U.S. currency while preserving its rich history.     Show Highlights (1:21) Where the U.S. Mint fits in the organization of the government and its components (3:24) How the U.S. Mint relates to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (3:40) How often new coins are created and old ones revised (4:42) The major innovations in how the U.S. has produced coins over time (6:21) The U.S. Mint's American Innovation Dollar Program (8:44) How the U.S. Mint is commemorating the 250th birthday of America

What you didn't know about the Presidents and the scientific process is on exhibit at AMSE.

Welcome to the AMSE Science Report. Today we speak with Mark Miodownik about his terrific book, It's a Gas: The Magnificent and Elusive Elements that Expand Our World. A fascinating conversation began by asking a very basic question – what is a gas?

Award-winning science writer Dava Sobel returns to AMSEcast to discuss her latest book, The Elements of Marie Curie. She and host Alan explore Curie's groundbreaking research, her struggles against societal barriers, and her enduring impact on science and women in STEM. From her discovery of polonium and radium to mentoring future pioneers like Ellen Gleditsch and Marguerite Perey, Curie's legacy shaped cancer treatment and scientific research. Sobel also highlights Curie's daughter, Irène Joliot-Curie, and her Nobel-winning work on artificial radioisotopes. Tune in for a fascinating look at one of history's greatest scientific minds.     Guest Bio Dava Sobel is an award-winning science writer known for bringing history and scientific discovery to life. She has authored acclaimed books including Longitude, Galileo's Daughter, The Glass Universe, A More Perfect Heaven, as well as the play And the Sun Stood Still. In her latest work, The Elements of Marie Curie: How the Glow of Radium Lit a Path for Women in Science, Sobel explores Curie's groundbreaking research, resilience, and lasting impact on women in STEM. Returning to AMSEcast, she joins host Alan to discuss Curie's legacy and the challenges she overcame in pursuit of scientific discovery.     Show Highlights (1:25) What led Marie Curie to a life of science (6:28) Marie Curie's Nobel Prizes (11:47) Her role in creating a radium standard and why that's important (13:31) Madame Curie's pioneering role in the use of radiation for medical therapies (15:00) Her role as mentor and teacher to other to other women in science (20:54) Curie's reception in the United States (22:04) Her daughter's scientific legacy (28:23) What's next for Dava Sobel     Links The Elements of Marie Curie: How the Glow of Radium Lit a Path for Women in Science: https://groveatlantic.com/book/the-elements-of-marie-curie/

With support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, AMSEcast is celebrating 250 years of American innovation with expert interviews. CEO of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and executive publisher of Science, Dr. Sudip Parikh joins Alan on this episode to explore the forces shaping scientific progress. He highlights interdisciplinary collaboration, the impact of immigration on innovation, and the need for clear communication in securing research funding. Dr. Parikh also discusses the evolution of U.S. science policy, the role of private investment, and the importance of modernizing dissemination methods. He stresses inspiring future scientists and reducing financial barriers in STEM to sustain American leadership in research and discovery.     Guest Bio Dr. Sudip Parikh is the 19th CEO of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and executive publisher of the Science family of journals, a role he assumed in January 2020. With a background in journalism and materials science from the University of North Carolina and a PhD in macromolecular structure and chemistry from the Scripps Research Institute, Dr. Parikh has built a distinguished career at the intersection of science and policy. He has served as a science advisor to the Senate Appropriations Committee, vice president at Battelle, and senior VP at DIA Global, shaping science policy and innovation.     Show Highlights (2:01) What Dr. Parikh thinks are the primary instigators of innovation and the primary obstacles (6:20) The role of immigration in bringing new ideas to the United States (8:20) Sudip's experience gathering support for scientific innovation when working in Washington, D.C. (12:55) Specific policies from Washington that helped spur innovation (16:06) How to strike a balance between disruptive innovations while maintaining our infrastructure and systems (17:43) Dr. Parikh's role as the publisher of the Science family of journals in bringing new ideas to the table versus making small changes (20:18) What processes will have to change for Science and other journals moving forward (22:15) The best ways to inspire that next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators

Executive Officer of the National Academy of Engineering, Dr. Al Romig joins this special edition of AMSEcast, recorded at the National Academy of Sciences Building in Washington. Dr. Romig has led a distinguished career including leadership roles at Sandia National Lab, Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works, and now as Executive Officer of the National Academy of Engineering. He and Alan discuss key innovations from national laboratories and the Skunk Works. He also discusses the importance of risk-taking to foster innovation and why he's skeptical about the future of American innovation. It's not a totally negative outlook. Dr. Roming still thinks the U.S. can thrive by emphasizing talent cultivation, investment in R&D, and a culture that embraces failure as part of success.     Guest Bio As executive officer of the National Academy of Engineering, Al Romig is the chief operating officer responsible for the program, financial, and membership operations of the Academy, reporting to the president. Before joining the Academy, he was vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Advanced Development Programs, better known as the Skunk Works®. Dr. Romig spent most of his career at Sandia National Laboratories, operated by the Lockheed Martin Corporation. He joined Sandia as a member of the technical staff in 1979 and moved through a succession of R&D management positions before his appointment as executive vice president in 2005. He served as deputy laboratories director and chief operating officer until 2010, when he transferred to the Skunk Works.     Dr. Romig is a fellow of ASM International, TMS, IEEE, AIAA, and AAAS, and was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 2003 and the Council of Foreign Relations in 2008. He was awarded the ASM Silver Medal for Materials Research in 1988. He earned BS (1975), MS (1977), and PhD (1979) degrees in materials science and engineering from Lehigh University.     Show Highlights (1:59) The innovations that Al saw during his time with Sandia (9:04) How to inspire a culture of innovation at a lab (10:27) The history of Skunk Works (18:29) Explaining Al's role at the National Academy of Engineering (23:27) The challenges American innovation will face in the future (27:22)  Where Al thinks we'll see the most innovation in the coming years

Tom Zoellner, award-winning writer and Chapman University professor, joins AMSEcast to discuss his book Uranium: War, Energy and the Rock that Shaped the World. He and Alan discuss the discovery of uranium, its radioactive nature, and its historical impact. Once dismissed as worthless by miners, uranium became vital to energy and warfare. The U.S. uranium rush peaked in the 1950s but has since declined. Today, uranium enrichment is expanding in the U.S., with major players like Orano investing in Oak Ridge.     Guest Bio Tom Zoellner is an award-winning writer and the author of nine books, including Uranium: War, Energy and the Rock that Shaped the World. His work has appeared in The Atlantic, Time, and Scientific American, among other publications. A former staff writer for The Arizona Republic and The San Francisco Chronicle, Tom brings deep expertise in history, science, and investigative journalism. He currently teaches at Chapman University and serves as editor at large for the Los Angeles Review of Books.       Show Highlights (1:28) Why is uranium radioactive and what does that mean? (3:09) How uranium was discovered (5:51) The American uranium rush (9:13) Where the uranium used in the Manhattan Project came from (11:17) How uranium supplies and facilities that use them around the world are controlled (13:35) How the nation of Georgia became the crossroads for uranium smuggling (15:29) Where uranium is currently being enriched and how it affects national security (18:02) What's next for Tom Zoellner     Links Referenced Uranium: War, Energy and the Rock that Shaped the World: https://www.amazon.com/Uranium-Energy-Rock-Shaped-World/dp/0670020648

Alan takes a trip to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History to speak with Nicole Webster, the Manager of School and Teacher Programs, and Jennifer Collins, Learning Experience Manager for Exhibits and Initiatives. Broadcasting from the museum itself, the discussion revolves around its fascinating history, impressive collections, and impactful educational initiatives. With over 4 million annual visitors on-site and 10 million online, the museum is a hub of scientific knowledge and public engagement. Nicole and Jennifer explain the intricacies of the museum's exhibits, educational programs, and the invaluable roles of interns and volunteers. Listen now to learn about the important role of education and outreach, both in-person and virtual, in inspiring the next generation of scientists.     Guest Bios Jennifer Collins is the Learning Experience Manager, Exhibits and Initiatives at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. As the lead of the museum's Science Liaison program, she helps foster communication and collaboration between education and the different science departments in service of our audiences. Jennifer also provides training to volunteers, educators, and youth in a suite of content and skill areas, with a particular expertise in the process and nature of science.   Nicole Webster is the Manager of School and Teacher Programs at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Since 2011, Nicole has worked with the Smithsonian in various educational roles. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education at George Washington University.     Show Highlights (1:38) The story of the  National Museum of Natural History (3:46) What are the most popular pieces in the Museum's collections (6:20) How Smithsonian staff learn from the collections (7:34) How does the National Museum of Natural History curate its exhibits? (9:26) The importance of the Museum's education initiative (13:51) Breaking down the Museum's scientific liaison program (15:23) Internships with the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (18:23) The role of volunteers at the Museum     Links Referenced AMSEcast: https://amsecast.libsyn.com/ Natural History Museum: https://naturalhistory.si.edu

Materials scientist and BBC presenter Dr. Mark Miodownik joins AMSEcast to discuss his latest book, It's a Gas. He explores the hidden world of gases, from steam's role in electricity production to methane's surprising history. The conversation spans George Washington's scientific curiosity, oxygen's life-saving importance, and the chemistry of scent. Mark also unpacks the science of hot air and hydrogen balloons, noble gases, and carbon capture technology's potential to combat climate change. Looking ahead, he envisions a future of sustainable materials and repairable goods.     Guest Bio Dr. Mark Miodownik is a professor of materials and society at University College London where he directs the Institute of Making and founded the Plastic Waste Innovation Hub. With a PhD from Oxford in turbine jet engine alloys, he has worked as a materials engineer across the UK, US, and Ireland. A passionate science communicator, Mark presents BBC programs and podcasts, and is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering. Awarded an MBE for his contributions to materials science and broadcasting, he's also the bestselling author of Stuff Matters, Liquid Rules, and his latest book, It's a Gas.     Show Highlights (2:57) Why steam gas is still important for life in the 21st century (4:24) What natural gas is and how it was eventually harnessed (8:28) George Washington's experiments with natural gas (10:02) The importance of oxygen and how it's produced and distributed (14:32) How oxygen is distributed in hospitals (17:47) How scented gases are created, captured and distributed as perfumes (23:38) How hot air ballooning got started and how it works (29:05) The role noble gases play in our daily lives and how they were discovered (32:33) Strategies for capturing carbon dioxide (38:36) Which form of gas technology Mark thinks has had the biggest effect on civilization (41:16) What Dr. Mark Miodownik is working on next     Links Referenced Stuff Matters: Exploring the Marvelous Materials that Shape Our Man-Made World: https://www.amazon.com/Stuff-Matters-Exploring-Marvelous-Materials/dp/0544483944   Liquid Rules: The Delightful and Dangerous Substances that Flow Through Our Lives: https://www.amazon.com/Liquid-Rules-Delightful-Dangerous-Substances/dp/0358108454   It's a Gas: The Sublime and Elusive Elements that Expand Our World: https://www.amazon.com/Its-Gas-Sublime-Elusive-Elements/dp/0358157153   Mark's website: https://markmiodownik.net  

Keith Houston, author of the book, Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator joined us to recently to speak on our podcast AMSEcast. We talked about counting and ciphering from the earliest days of humanity up to the momentous creation of those wonderful pocket devices in the 1970's. One of the historic models we spoke about was the TI 81 that became a worldwide sensation for Texas Instruments.

Part of our mission at the AMSE Foundation is to tell the story of the Manhattan Project and to do that, we must discuss the horrible conflict that led to that massive effort to build the atomic bomb. With that in mind, I spoke on our podcast, AMSEcast, with Saul David, author of Crucible of Hell: The Heroism and Tragedy of Okinawa, 1945. Saul explains, Okinawa, for many reasons, was seen as a natural stepping stone to an invasion of the Japanese home islands.

Dr. Ashley Stowe is the director of the Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center (ORETTC) at Y-12 National Security Complex, and he joins AMSEcast to discuss his career and the mission of Y-12. With a PhD in chemistry and an MBA, Dr. Stowe leads efforts to support nuclear deterrence, fuel the nuclear navy, and advance global security. Opened in 2023, ORETTC trains first responders using cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality to simulate nuclear scenarios. Upcoming projects include a second facility with advanced capabilities and tools like immersive LED volumes and holographic tables, ensuring effective training, workforce development, and leadership in global nuclear security.     Guest Bio Dr. Ashley Stowe is the director of the Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center (ORETTC) at Y-12 National Security Complex, a role he has held since 2021. Joining Y-12 in 2007, Dr. Stowe has served in various leadership positions, including senior development chemist, Googin Fellow, and director of the Nuclear Forensics and Detection Initiative. He also led CNS's university and minority-serving institution partnership programs. Dr. Stowe holds a PhD in chemistry from Florida State University and an MBA from the University of Tennessee. An accomplished researcher and adjunct professor, he is widely recognized for his contributions to nuclear science.     Show Highlights (0:35) Introducing Dr. Ashley Stowe (1:40) How Ashley began his journey to Y-12 (3:49) Y-12's overall mission and how it's operated (7:22) How people who receive ORETTC training are chosen and where they find trainers (9:54) The technology used during training at ORETTC (11:00) The types of facilities ORETTC is training to address during emergencies (14:23) How Ashley evaluates the effectiveness of training (20:15) Steps students and others can take to follow in Ashley's footsteps (25:12) What's next for ORETTC (28:58) ORETTC's LED volume     Link Referenced Ashley Stowe email: ashley.stowe@pxy12.doe.gov

Katie McKissick, author of the book DNA is You: The Marvelous Science Behind Your One-Of-A-Kind-Ness is our guest on this episode of The AMSE Science Report. Our wide ranging conversation looks at the mechanisms of DNA and how it shapes our lives.

Keith Houston is the author of Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator. He joins Alan on this episode of AMSEcast to discuss the history of calculating. From the ancient Lebombo bone to mechanical calculators, Keith covers the evolution of calculating tools. This includes modern milestones like John Napier's logarithms, the HP-35 scientific calculator, and the TI-81's impact on U.S. classrooms. Keith also discusses his forthcoming book, Face With Tears of Joy. In this book, he explores the history, culture, and governance of emojis.     Guest Bio Keith Houston is the author of many books. In Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator, he explores the story behind this revolutionary tool. Keith is also the creator of the Shady Characters blog where he covers the history of punctuation and typography. He is working on a new book that dives into the history of emojis.     Show Highlights (1:55) When humans started counting (4:37) How the abacus and counting board advanced our ability to calculate (6:28) The creation of the algorithm (11:13) Why the Curta stands out in the evolution of the calculator (18:00) Why the Pocketronic from Texas Instruments was so groundbreaking (25:44) How the HANDY-LE fits into the story of calculating (26:30) HP's role in revolutionizing calculating with the HP-35 (29:05) How the TI-81 was able to be found in classrooms around the world (34:15) America's reaction to calculators in the classroom setting (36:17) What's next for Keith Houston       Links Referenced Shady Characters: https://shadycharacters.co.uk/ Shady Characters: The Secret Life of Punctuation, Symbols, and Other Typographical Marks: https://www.amazon.com/Shady-Characters-Punctuation-Symbols-Typographical/dp/0393064425 The Book: A Cover-to-Cover Exploration of the Most Powerful Object of Our Time: https://www.amazon.com/Book-Cover-Cover-Exploration-Powerful/dp/1324086351/ Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator: https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Sum-Reign-Pocket-Calculator/dp/0393882144 Face With Tears of Joy: https://www.amazon.com/Face-Tears-Joy-Natural-History/dp/1324075147

Alan Lowe, Executive Director of the American Museum of Science and Energy, launches AMSEcast Conversations with a compelling discussion on Jay Hakes' book, The Presidents and the Planet: Climate Change Science from Eisenhower to Bush. The panel, featuring Hakes alongside energy experts David McCollum and Charles Sims, traces the origins of modern climate science to the 1950s work of Roger Revelle and Dave Keeling. The panel explores the evolution of climate science, the challenges of political resistance, and the growing urgency of action in the face of today's visible climate impacts. Their discussion emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and persistence in addressing global climate challenges.     Guest Bio Jay Hakes is an accomplished author and energy policy expert whose latest book, The Presidents and the Planet: Climate Change Science from Eisenhower to Bush, explores the intersection of science and leadership. Previously, Jay authored Energy Crises: Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Hard Choices in the 1970s. He served for 13 years as Director of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta and was Administrator of the Energy Information Administration during the Clinton administration. Jay also worked under President Obama as Director of Research and Policy for the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Commission, bringing deep expertise to critical energy challenges. David McCollum is a leading expert in energy and environmental policy, serving as part of the distinguished R&D staff in the Mobility and Energy Transitions Analysis Group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). He also holds a joint faculty appointment at the University of Tennessee's Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs in Knoxville. David's work focuses on the critical intersections of energy systems, transportation, and sustainability, bringing valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a low-carbon future. His expertise bridges research and policy, making him a key voice in addressing global energy and climate issues. Charles Sims is an expert in energy and environmental policy, currently serving as the director of the Center for Energy, Transportation, and Environmental Policy at the University of Tennessee (UT) in Knoxville. He holds the TVA Distinguished Professorship of Energy and Environmental Policy at UT's Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs and is also an associate professor in the Department of Economics. Charles' work focuses on the economic and policy implications of energy systems and environmental challenges, offering valuable insights into the complex relationship between energy, transportation, and sustainable development.     Show Highlights (2:49) When scientists realized that climate was changing and human activities were the major cause (4:35) The Keeling Curve (7:18) Why the public's perception of climate change has shifted over the years (17:14) Eisenhower's introduction to climate change and its impact on Atoms for Peace (20:49) JFK's awareness of the climate change issue (26:38) How climate change factored into decisions made during LBJ's Great Society (31:20) President Nixon and climate change (38:23) The failed marriage between climate science and nuclear power (41:36) Facing climate change on an international scale (48:42) How to test sources on climate change and the importance of good communication (54:16) Are there any positive outlooks on climate change at this point in time?     Links Referenced The Presidents and the Planet: Climate Change Science from Eisenhower to Bush: https://www.amazon.com/Presidents-Planet-Climate-Politics-Eisenhower/dp/0807181900 Energy Crises: Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Hard Choices in the 1970s: https://www.amazon.com/Energy-Crises-Choices-Environment-America/dp/0806168528

Dr. Michael Muthukrishna, Associate Professor at LSE, joins Alan to explore his book, A Theory of Everyone. It reveals how cultural evolution—our “software” of beliefs, language, and logic—shaped humanity's unique trajectory. He explains the "laws" of energy and innovation: energy abundance fuels cooperation and progress, while innovations like the steam engine drive efficiency and competition. Michael highlights the "paradox of diversity," where fresh ideas thrive amid aligned communication and norms. He links societal challenges like division and inequality to resource scarcity and calls for leveraging technologies like AI and startup cities to foster collaboration, sustainable innovation, and global progress.     Guest Bio Dr. Michael Muthukrishna is an Associate Professor of Psychological and Behavioral Science at the London School of Economics, with a unique academic foundation in software engineering and psychology from the University of Queensland, and advanced degrees from the University of British Columbia. He has held prestigious roles at Harvard, Yale, and the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research. Recognized for his groundbreaking work, Michael has received accolades like the 2024 Excellence in Quantitative Methods Research Award and a John Templeton Foundation grant. He is the author of the acclaimed book, A Theory of Everyone, which redefines how we understand human evolution and progress.       Show Highlights (2:24) What A Theory of Everyone entails (12:14) The fundamental “law” of energy (20:31) The “law” of innovation (22:47) COMPASS - the seven secrets of innovation (26:22) The paradox of diversity (30:20) How humans' big heads have affected our evolution (38:11) The next level of human cultural evolution (46:25) The necessary steps to the next stage of tying societies back together (52:10) How to protect the engine of growth amidst negative circumstances (54:23) What's next for Michael Muthukrisha     Links Referenced A Theory of Everyone: The New Science of Who We Are, How We Got Here, and Where We're Going: https://www.amazon.com/Theory-Everyone-Science-where-Going/dp/026204837X

A few thoughts on the 24 hour, madcap & meteoric flight across the planet

Alan, an ant enthusiast since childhood, is joined by Susanne Foitzik, author of Empire of Ants: The Hidden Worlds and Extraordinary Lives of Earth's Tiny Conquerors. She explains that while queens start colonies and lay eggs, they don't control the colony. Worker ants take on specialized roles like brood care and foraging, with older ants handling riskier tasks. Ants communicate through pheromones and use impressive navigation skills. Some species, like the Argentine and fire ants, thrive in new environments due to human transport, forming super colonies. Susanne's current research focuses on how ants regulate labor division and how parasites impact their behavior and longevity.     Guest Bio Dr. Susanne Foitzik is a professor of evolutionary biology, Vice Dean of the biology faculty, and Acting Director of the Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolutionary Biology at Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany. She has held academic positions at Ludwig Maximilian University, the University of Regensburg, and as a postdoctoral fellow at Colorado State University. With a doctoral degree in biology and a habilitation in zoology, Susanne is widely published and the author of Empire of Ants: The Hidden Worlds and Extraordinary Lives of Earth's Tiny Conquerors, a captivating exploration of ant behavior and ecology.       Show Notes (2:12) How many species of ants there are (3:46) The role of ant queens and how they're made (5:55) The different functions ants take on in the colony (9:01) How nests are created (11:02) How ants communicate and navigate (16:01) How certain ants have developed the ability to maintain livestock and how they do it (19:01) Ants' more aggressive behaviors (22:34) What turns ants into “zombies” (25:34) The social immune system of ants (28:42) Invasive species of ants (32:39) Understanding ant-tink (34:31) What Susanne is working on now     Links Referenced Empire of Ants: The Hidden Worlds and Extraordinary Lives of Earth's Tiny Conquerors: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowers-Six-Legs-Hidden-Lives/dp/1615197125

Following the horrific devastation wreaked by Hurricane Helene, I was so heartened to see many in our community and around the nation come together to help those who had lost everything. I had spoken a while back on our podcast, AMSEcast, with Eric Jay Dolin about his book, A Furious Sky: The 500 Year History of America's Hurricanes. We talked about some of those storms, including the Galveston, Texas, Hurricane of 1900. The people there had been encouraged to think a hurricane could not do any serious damage to their island home due to a deeply flawed understanding of how those storms work. The results were horrendous. Eric and I also spoke about how modern technologies help us predict and track these monster storms.

A few thoughts about the technological development and advancement over the past 25 years.

Dr. Rita Colwell is a pioneering scientist and professor at the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins who has made groundbreaking contributions to microbiology and public health. She joins AMSEcast to discuss her experiences being the first woman to lead the National Science Foundation as well as her advanced research on Vibrio bacteria and cholera while founding CosmosID to improve rapid pathogen detection. During the 2001 anthrax attacks, she led a cross-agency effort to identify the spores, revolutionizing DNA sequencing techniques. Overcoming sexism early in her career, Dr. Colwell's achievements are detailed in A Lab of One's Own.     Guest Bio Rita Colwell is a Distinguished University Professor with an appointment in the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies. Colwell is one of the world's leading researchers of cholera—a waterborne disease estimated by the World Health Organization to strike three to five million people annually, many of them young children. Her efforts to track and predict cholera outbreaks are multi-faceted, combining bioinformatics with the pioneering use of satellite imaging. She was one of the first scientists to employ remote sensing for disease prediction, as well as recognize the impact of climate change on the waterborne microbial world.     Show Notes (0:35) About Dr. Rita Colwell (1:52) Dr. Colwell's irritation at people saying we need to interest more women in science (2:49) How Rita dealt with overt sexism and still found the determination to keep moving forward (3:56) What lead Dr. Colwell to marine biology and focus on Vibrio (6:20) How she ended up at the University of Maryland (9:31) Rita's groundbreaking work on cholera and obstacles in getting her findings accepted (15:03) How long it took the professional world for her findings to be accepted (18:49) Dr. Colwell's work as the director of the National Science Foundation (21:39) The role she played in the response to the 2001 anthrax attacks (26:03) The prospects for women in the business world (28:58) The cost of persistent sexism (30:41) Rita's thoughts on how to advance women in the science and business worlds (33:40) What's next for Dr. Colwell     Links Referenced A Lab of One's Own: One Woman's Personal Journey Through Sexism in Science: https://www.amazon.com/Lab-Ones-Own-Personal-Journey/dp/1501181270

Whether you like to have an occasional drink or are a teetotaler, you will enjoy a conversation I had on our podcast, AMSEcast, with Camper English about his book Doctors and Distillers: The Remarkable Medicinal History of Beer, Wine, Spirits, and Cocktails. Camper's book is a fascinating look at how, over the centuries, many alcohols and various things we add today to cocktails originally had medicinal purposes.   For example, monks in the Middle Ages were at the center of research on agriculture and the distillation of alcohol. One thing they produced for medicinal uses can be found today in many bars.

Renowned author and science historian, Joel Levy, shares his expertise on consciousness, intelligence, and the delicate dance between nature and nurture. Through his latest work, "Psychology for Busy People," the discussion traverses psychology's extensive history, from its origins to contemporary challenges and applications. Joel offers captivating perspectives on thought experiments, the core of consciousness, the nature-nurture debate, and the subtleties of mental health. Tune in as Alan and Joel guide us through the intriguing and complex realm of psychology.   Show Highlights (00:00) Introduction (01:39) The ancient roots of psychology (13:26) Joel Levy explores the concept of consciousness (20:40) The topic shifts to the various forms of intelligence (28:51) Insights into social psychology and group dynamics (36:16) Developmental psychology and the process of learning (45:48) Defining mental illness and approaches to treatment (54:18) Conclusion Guest Bio: Joel Levy is a renowned author and expert in the fields of psychology and science history. With a prolific portfolio of work, including titles such as "The Infinite Tortoise: The Curious Thought Experiments of History's Great Thinkers," and "Meltdown: Stories of Nuclear Disaster," Joel's writings explore the intersections of science, history, and the human psyche. His latest book, "Psychology for Busy People," simplifies the complex world of psychology, making it accessible to a broad audience. Links Referenced: The Infinite Tortoise: The Curious Thought Experiments of History's Great Thinkers: https://www.amazon.com/Infinite-Tortoise-Experiments-Historys-Thinkers-ebook/dp/B01J3RCYCW Scientific Feuds: From Galileo to the Human Genome Project: https://www.amazon.com/Scientific-Feuds-Galileo-Genome-Project/dp/1847735142/ Meltdown: Stories of nuclear disaster and the human cost of going critical: https://www.amazon.com/Meltdown-Stories-nuclear-disaster-critical-ebook/dp/B0CTQBQPJP/ Freudian Slips: https://www.amazon.com/Freudian-Slips-Psychology-Need-Know-ebook/dp/B00DSPK2AWPsychology in a Nutshell: https://www.amazon.com/Why-We-Do-Things-Psychology/dp/1782437851

Ridge, Tennessee. Our home of Oak Ridge got its start as a major part of the monumental Manhattan Project, the nation's successful effort to build the first atomic bomb and end World War II. We talk a lot at AMSE and the K-25 Atomic History Center about the history of the Project, the science and engineering behind it, and the role of Oak Ridge and other locations in its successful outcome. But what is hard to teach is the atmosphere that surrounded that work. Our nation was at war, our soldiers and marines, our sailors and airmen, fighting and dying on the battlefields of Europe and Africa, on the islands of the Pacific, on the vast oceans, in the skies. Every family in America was touched by this war, a war against powers of fascism and militarism, of genocide and oppression.   And we were quite concerned that Nazi Germany was far ahead of us in the effort to build the atomic bomb. It became our focus to beat them in that race, and concurrently to do what we could to sabotage their efforts. I spoke on our podcast, AMSEcast, with award-winning author, Sam Kean, about his terrific book on this topic titled The Bastard Brigade: The True Story of the Renegade Scientists and Spies Who Sabotaged the Nazi Atomic Bomb. Here is Sam.

I have a fundamental question for you – what is life? For something seemingly so basic, it is quite hard to define. The Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Carl Zimmer, took on that topic in his book Life's Edge: The Search for What It Means to Be Alive. I spoke with Carl on our podcast, AMSEcast, and, among other indicators of life, he raised one that was a bit surprising – life is defined, in part, by decision making, and not just for us creatures who have brains. 

Dr. Michele Gelfand is a cultural psychologist and author of Rule Makers, Rule Breakers. She joins us to discusses how “tight” and “loose” cultures shape societies. Tight cultures, like Japan's, respond to threats with strict rules and order, while looser ones, like the U.S., allow greater flexibility. Gelfand suggests a balanced “Goldilocks” approach, adjusting strictness and flexibility to suit each environment's needs, from families to organizations. She also explores online accountability, recommending "nudges" to promote civility, and sees AI as a potential tool for managing biases and promoting understanding.     Guest Bio Michele Gelfand is a Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and Professor of Psychology by Courtesy at Stanford University. Gelfand uses field, experimental, computational, and neuroscience methods to understand the evolution of culture--as well as its multilevel consequences for human groups. Her work has been cited over 20,000 times and has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Boston Globe, National Public Radio, Voice of America, Fox News, NBC News, ABC News, The Economist, De Standard, among other outlets.   Gelfand has published her work in many scientific outlets such as Science, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Proceedings of the Royal Society B, Psychological Science, Nature Scientific Reports, PLOS 1, the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Academy of Management Review, Academy of Management Journal, Research in Organizational Behavior, Journal of Applied Psychology, Annual Review of Psychology, American Psychologist, Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, Current Opinion in Psychology, among others. She has received over 13 million dollars in research funding from the National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, and the FBI.   As a native New Yorker, Michele is now a California transplant. She is married to Todd Betke and has two daughters, Jeanette and Hannah, two birds (Bonnie and Theo) and a Portuguese water dog, Pepper.     Show Notes (1:47) What is culture? (4:08) The age that we start learning norms (10:01) What makes a person or nation a tight versus a loose culture (15:12) How the movement of people affect looseness and tightness dynamics (17:57) How changes in attitudes occur (20:59) Tightness doesn't mean a lack of creativity (24:26) The Goldilocks Approach (30:49) Avoiding becoming too tight or too loose (32:55) Applying the Goldilocks Approach on social media (35:56) The disrupting force technology can have on loose and tight cultures (38:19) AI's ability to understand culture (41:11) What's next for Dr. Michele Gelfand (45:00) How to follow Michele's work     Links Referenced Values, Political Action, and Change in the Middle East and the Arab Spring: https://www.amazon.com/Values-Political-Action-Change-Middle/dp/019026909X Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: How Tight and Loose Cultures Wire Our World: https://www.amazon.com/Rule-Makers-Breakers-Tight-Cultures/dp/1501152939 Personal website: michelegelfand.com  

In this episode, Alan talks with Windell Oskay, co-founder of Evil Mad Scientist Laboratories. Windell discusses updating Make: The Annotated Build-it-Yourself Science Laboratory, a childhood favorite of his, to inspire today's young scientists. They highlight the importance of hands-on learning, creativity, and safety, especially in electrical experiments. Windell is also the author of Open Circuits: The Inner Beauty of Electronic Components, which explores the hidden beauty inside electronics, showcasing intricate cross-sections of devices from vacuum tubes to smartphones. Additionally, he shares insights into quantum computing and his company's work creating pen plotters for artists.     Guest Bio Windell Oskay, co-founder of Evil Mad Scientist Laboratories, holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Texas at Austin and a BA in Physics and Mathematics from Lake Forest College. Before launching his company, Windell worked at Stanford Research Systems and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Evil Mad Scientist Laboratories creates electronics and robotics kits and runs a popular DIY blog. In addition to updating the Make: The Annotated Build-it-Yourself Science Laboratory, Windell authored Open Circuits: The Inner Beauty of Electronic Components, a book that reveals the hidden beauty inside electronics.     Show Notes (1:31) What inspired Windell to update and annotate the Build-It-Yourself Science Laboratory (4:03) Why Windell thinks it's important for kids to do hands-on science activities (7:10) How parents and teacher should approach the book from a safety perspective (11:21) Activities in the book related to atomic science (15:08) How Windell prepared the pieces in Open Circuits and what the most challenging aspects were (18:14) What passive components are and why Wendell started with them (21:04) How components fit into phone cameras and other devices (26:32) Where to learn more about Evil Mad Scientist Laboratories   Links Referenced Evil Mad Scientist Laboratories: https://www.evilmadscientist.com/ Make: The Annotated Build-it-Yourself Science Laboratory: https://www.amazon.com/Annotated-Build-Yourself-Science-Laboratory/dp/1457186896 Open Circuits: The Inner Beauty of Electronic Components: https://www.amazon.com/Open-Circuits-Beauty-Electronic-Components/dp/1718502346

Welcome to the AMSE Science Report. Are we alone in the universe? Many people are now taking a fresh look at that question thanks to recent revelations about unidentified aerial phenomena or UAPs, and those revelations have been spearheaded by the important work of Luis Elizondo. Lue recently joined me on our podcast, AMSEcast, to talk about his New York Times bestselling book, Imminent: Inside the Pentagon's Hunt for UFOs. In a truly incredible, candid, eye-opening conversation, we spoke about several characteristics that distinguish these seemingly inexplicable vehicles. Here is part of our conversation about the ability of these UAPs to achieve instantaneous and hypersonic velocities.

Dava Sobel is an American writer of popular expositions of scientific topics. Her books include Longitude, about English clockmaker John Harrison; Galileo's Daughter, about Galileo's daughter Maria Celeste; and The Glass Universe: How the Ladies of the Harvard Observatory Took the Measure of the Stars about the Harvard Computers. Taken from Wikipedia

Welcome to The AMSE Science Report. I spoke on our podcast, AMSEcast, with Ian McNeely, about his fascinating book titled Reinventing Knowledge: From Alexandria to the Internet.  At our institutions in Oak Ridge we focus every day on the collection and use of knowledge, so it was fascinating to talk with Ian about how knowledge has been viewed and transmitted throughout the ages.  

Alan Lowe sits down with the renowned Dr. Asad Madni. Dr. Madni shares his extraordinary journey as an engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur, detailing his groundbreaking contributions to fields like digital signal processing, MEMS technology, and artificial intelligence. From revolutionizing the Naval fleet with the Transline Analyzer to advancing automotive safety with MEMS gyroscopes, Dr. Madni's innovations have left an indelible mark on modern technology. Listen in as he discusses career insights, the future of AI, and the importance of creativity, ethics, and continuous learning in engineering and beyond.     Guest Bio Dr. Asad Madni is an internationally renowned engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur. A native of India, Asad studied electronics at the RCA Institutes in New York, and then electrical engineering at UCLA, where he obtained his bachelor's and master's degrees.     He then received his PhD from California Coast University, and the senior executive program postgraduate credential from the MIT Sloan School of Management.  He quickly rose up to leadership roles in engineering and business, serving as the CEO of Systron-Donner Corporation, and CEO and President of BEI Technologies. In 2011, he began serving as a distinguished adjunct professor and distinguished scientist at UCLA.   Throughout his career, Asad has invented several devices that have had a tremendous impact on our world. He holds 28 patents and has received many prestigious honors including the 2022 Royal Academy of Engineering Prince Philip medal, the 2023 John Fritz medal, and induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2024.     Show Notes (2:13) What drew Dr. Madni to science and engineering (4:44) Art, engineering, and how they're connected (7:14) How Dr. Madni created the first standalone communications systems analyzer (12:44) When Dr. Madni realized he could make that system into reality (19:55) The gyroscope and revolutionizing the auto industry (31:21) Contributions to the Hubble Telescope from Dr. Madni (34:03) Dr. Madni's thoughts on the development of AI (44:12) Dr. Madni's path to financial success and business advice for aspiring scientists and engineers (54:22) Virtues that should be instilled into bright, young minds

Alan is joined by Lou Elizondo, former military intelligence officer and author of Imminent: Inside the Pentagon's Hunt for UFOs. Lou shares his journey from joining JROTC to his work in the Pentagon's classified UFO program. He describes Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) with extraordinary capabilities like hypersonic speeds and movement without visible propulsion, raising national security concerns. Lou explains that UAP sightings date back to the 1950s, and the government once stigmatized discussions to avoid panic. Now, bipartisan efforts push for transparency, supported by emerging legislation and international cooperation on UAP research.     Guest Bio Lou Elizondo is a former military intelligence officer who served in various classified roles, including a key position in the Pentagon's UFO program. After his resignation in 2017, Lou became an advocate for transparency about Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs), revealing shocking insights into advanced aerospace technologies observed by military pilots. His New York Times bestselling book, Imminent: Inside the Pentagon's Hunt for UFOs, uncovers the hidden world of UAP investigations and challenges our understanding of reality. Lou's work has sparked global conversations about science, security, and the future of human knowledge.     Show Highlights (1:29) What led to Luis' career in military and intelligence services (5:26) What remote sensing is (11:03) How Luis' became in involved with UAPs from a military perspective (25:09) How Luis' deals with the lack of acceptance of the data (29:42) What led Louis to resign from the Pentagon (34:04) Observable traits of UAPs based on famous filmed cases (40:48) Why the government's attitude toward public transparency is changing (46:03) Next steps for people as UAPs are more openly discussed (52:56) The importance of keeping an open mind moving forward     Links Referenced Imminent: Inside the Pentagon's Hunt for UFO's https://www.amazon.com/Imminent-Pentagons-Investigating-UAPs_Featured-Experience/dp/0063235560

Alan Lowe, director of the American Museum of Science and Energy (AMSE) introduces a live audience to the first-ever AMSEcast Conversation. Held in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, the event featured a panel of experts discussing the historical significance of the Military Industrial Educational Complex and the book Critical Connections. The panel, which included Lee Riedinger, Ray Smith, and William Bugg, explored the development of Oak Ridge and the University of Tennessee (UT) during the 1940s.     Guest Bios Lee Riedinger has held numerous leadership positions during his distinguished career at the University of Tennessee (UT). He has served as the Director of the UT-ORNL Science Alliance, Head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, and Vice Chancellor for Research. Additionally, Lee has held key roles at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), including Deputy Director for Science and Technology, and Associate Laboratory Director for University Partnerships. His contributions have strengthened the collaboration between UT and ORNL, fostering groundbreaking research and educational initiatives.     Al Ekkebus has a long history with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he previously served as Head of the Research Library and Assistant to the Laboratory Director. He is currently the outreach leader for Neutron Science at ORNL, where his work supports the lab's scientific community. Al was a crucial research assistant for the book Critical Connections, adding his extensive knowledge to the project.     Ray Smith, the City of Oak Ridge's official historian, has dedicated years to documenting the rich history of the city. For over a decade, he has written a weekly newspaper column on Oak Ridge's history and contributed significantly to preserving its legacy. Before retiring in 2017, Ray worked at the Y-12 National Security Complex, where he was a key figure in chronicling its historical significance.     William “Bill” Bugg is a retired high-energy physicist and former Head of the Physics Department at UT, where he served from 1959 until 2006. An Oak Ridge High School graduate from the class of 1948, Bill's personal and professional journey has been deeply intertwined with Oak Ridge's scientific community, making him a living testament to the city's storied past.     Show Notes (04:19) Guest introductions (06:13) UT and Oak Ridge as they were in 1940 (10:03) The role UT played in the construction of Oak Ridge during the Manhattan Project (19:48) How Oak Ridge was able to continue existing after WWII (21:00) The role Dr. Hertel played in continuing the connection between UT and ORNL (23:48) Who Bill Pollard was and his central role in the relationship between UT and ORNL (32:35) Alvin Weinberg's role in making connections between ORNL and UT (35:32) The role politicians and other political servants played in connecting ORNL and UT (41:18) How their partnership has benefited the lab and the university (45:23) What's in the immediate future for UT and ORNL (48:38) The connection between UT and Y-12 (50:54) Q & A (59:58) What the panelists think is missing from the partnership between UT and ORNL

Seirian Sumner speaks to us about her terrific book Endless Forms: The Secret World of Wasps.  In this Science Report we learn why wasps often have a bad reputation. 

The growing understanding of electricity over the past 200 years has dramatically changed our understanding of the universe, including, you might say, the universe inside our bodies.  I had the pleasure of speaking on our podcast, AMSEcast, with Sally Adee, author of We Are Electric: Inside the 200 Year Hunt for Our Body's Bioelectric Code, and What the Future Holds.  In this fascinating book, Sally explores the ways our bioelectrical makeup is central to our lives.  Still, our understanding of the electricity in our bodies, and how the nervous system works, are relatively recent discoveries. 

In this episode, Alan engages in a captivating conversation with Dr. John Rather, a renowned scientist with an extensive career spanning astronomical research and government positions. Dr. Rather breaks down his groundbreaking work on a new cosmological model which challenges our conventional understandings of the universe's structure, dark matter, dark energy, and the flow of time. The discussion also explores Dr. Rather's fascinating journey in science, key influences, and his innovative theories on 5D space-time, quantum entanglement, and universal consciousness.     Guest Bio Dr. John Rather has a proven history of mobilizing scientists, engineers, and leaders in physical and biogenetic sciences to achieve high-leverage, strategic advantages for industry and government. Early in his career, Dr. Rather achieved excellence in hands-on research work at the Oak Ridge and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. In his mid-30s, he progressed to senior management positions that included two Vice Presidencies in the aerospace industry. Subsequently, he held Senior Executive Service appointments in the U.S. Government that required deep, comprehensive knowledge of science and technology. After a decade in medical and microelectronic research in an academic setting, he founded RCIG in 2006.     Show Notes (3:31) - What led Dr. Rather to writing his new book, Rethinking the Universe: Cosmology with a New Twist (Literally!) (5:16) - How Dr. Rather became interested in science (8:15) - What is cosmology (17:45) - Defining spin in cosmology (23:29) - Möbius and the 5D Universe (26:35) - Explaining the redshift (29:34) - Dr. Rather's thoughts on the flow of time (36:00) - Dark matter and dark energy in the world of cosmology (41:22) - Unpacking quantum entanglement (44:38) - Human consciousness vs. universal consciousness (49:55) - Advice for aspiring engineers and scientists   Links Referenced Rather Creative Innovations Group: https://www.rciginc.com/ Sisyphus Energy: https://sisyphusenergy.com/ Rethinking the Universe: Cosmology with a New Twist (Literally!): https://www.amazon.com/Rethinking-Universe-Cosmology-Twist-Literally/dp/B0CH2BPGX7  

Alan Lowe interviews Dr. Aditi Gurkar, assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh's Aging Institute. Dr. Gurkar discusses her transition from medical doctor to becoming a leading researcher in aging, driven by her grandfather's cancer diagnosis. She explains the critical difference between chronological and biological age, highlighting how aging impacts both physical and functional health. Dr. Gurkar also emphasizes the importance of early healthy habits, the value of in-person social connections, and the potential for delaying biological aging through targeted interventions while advocating for societal changes to support longer, healthier lives.     Guest Bio Dr. Aditi Gurkar is an assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh's Aging Institute and a leading researcher in the field of aging. Originally from Mumbai, India, Dr. Gurkar initially aspired to become a medical doctor but shifted her focus to scientific research after a transformative experience in genetic counseling. Inspired by her grandfather's battle with cancer, she pursued a PhD in cancer biology before realizing that aging is the primary risk factor for many diseases. Her work emphasizes the importance of early healthy habits and social connections in delaying biological aging, with a focus on developing interventions to promote longer, healthier lives.     Show Notes (1:52) What led Aditi to decide to study science (5:33) Aditi's advice to young women thinking about a career in STEM (6:43) Why Aditi decided to focus on aging (8:54) Chronological vs. biological aging (10:12) Why our bodies age (10:47) What happens to our bodies as we age (13:11) Tips for aging well and enjoying being older (15:38) Can the aging process be reversed?   Links Referenced Gurkar Lab: http://agresearchlab.com/ Twitter: https://x.com/healthspan_aug

Noted physicist John Butterworth discusses the world of particle physics, including the findings made in recent years regarding the Higgs Boson.  Here's Jon explaining what the Higgs Boson is.

Kate Winkler Dawson, author of American Sherlock: Murder, Forensics, and the Birth of American CSI is an amazing resource. The Sherlock she is talking about is the incredible Oscar Heinrich who utilized for the first time many of the forensic tools and methods we know today. Kate noted that when Heinrich first started using those tools they were not trusted by many people, including those serving on juries.

Noted sci-fi writer, Andy Weir, author of books such as The Martian, Project Hail Mary, and Artemis discusses which science fiction writers had influenced him the most.