In this episode of the Submarine Sea Stories Podcast, host Bill Nowicki reunites with Dave Bowman, a former submariner who was first interviewed nearly 11 years ago. They reminisce about Dave’s captivating career in the Navy, his passion for naval history, and his extraordinary journey from a landlocked upbringing to life underwater. Dave shares personal anecdotes about influential mentors, his deep love for submarines, and his transformative 20-year process of converting to Judaism from a conservative Christian household. They also delve into the challenges of conveying the significance of their Cold War duties to younger generations and the camaraderie found within submarine veterans’ organizations. This episode explores personal growth, military history, and the profound connections forged within the submarine community.

00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast

00:26 - Catching Up with Dave Bowman

01:17 - Dave’s Journey to the Navy

05:03 - Life in the Navy and Mentorship

07:15 - Influential Figures and Personal Growth

10:28 - Transitioning Out of the Navy

18:04 - Full Circle: Returning to Submarine Community

18:33 - Joining the Submarine Veterans

19:11 - Discovering the Value of Sub Vet Meetings

20:22 - Becoming Base Commander During COVID

20:45 - Transition to Base Historian and Digitalization

22:07 - The Importance of Cold War Stories

24:42 - Challenges of Sharing Cold War Experiences

27:45 - The Bond Among Submarine Veterans

30:53 - Dave’s Podcasts and Online Presence

33:18 - Final Thoughts and Farewell

Join us in this insightful episode as we dive into the world of nuclear energy with Mark Schneider, a former US Navy nuclear operator now working to reignite nuclear power in Australia.

Discover Schneider’s intriguing career journey, from his formative years in Oregon to his extensive 20-year Navy service, where he first developed his passion for nuclear science. Learn about his advocacy for nuclear power, the regulatory challenges in Australia, and the exciting developments in the nuclear supply chain.

Schneider’s engaging narrative covers his personal background, the evolution of nuclear energy policies, the importance of communication in demystifying nuclear power, and the pivotal role of women in the nuclear industry. A must-watch for anyone interested in the future of nuclear energy and the innovative minds driving its progress.

Bob Schuetz grew up in New Jersey and chose the ROTC when his parents couldn't afford college for all 4 kids. He joined the Navy and fell in love with submarines during his summer cruise and switched his major to Nuclear Engineering from Chemical Engineering.

As all potential officers do, he interviewed with Admiral Rickover and eventually commanded the fast attack submarine that bore the father of the nuclear Navy's name. He became friends with the Admiral's wife (she called him the Admiral too) and shares some fascinating stories from those day as well as leadership tips!