• EP61 Preserving Nuclear Legacies Oliver Hannan's Story
    Jul 7 2025

    Join host Bill Nowicki as he dives deep into the remarkable journey of Oliver Hannan, a submariner with 44 years in the nuclear industry. In this episode of Submarine Sea Stories, they discuss Oliver's extensive career from his beginnings as a nuke machinist mate to his critical role in the preservation and demolition of historical nuclear prototypes. Oliver shares his experiences in solving complex problems and highlights the importance of innovation and integrity in maintaining America’s naval nuclear history. A compelling listen for anyone interested in the intricate world of nuclear propulsion and historical preservation.

    Idaho’s Nuclear Navy (Idaho Public Television)

    Video Link

    USS Idaho

    USS Idaho Information

    Slysteel knives

    Oliver's precision knives!

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    49 mins
  • EP60 A Decade Later: Revisiting Submariner Dave Bowman's Journey
    Jun 8 2025

    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

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    34 mins
  • EP59 Advancing Nuclear Power: Mark Schneider’s Journey from US Navy to Australia
    May 20 2025

    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.

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • EP58, Commanding a Legend, Captain Bob Schuetz
    May 6 2022

    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!

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    36 mins
  • EP57, Flying through the air on a sub, Bob Bailey Sonar Tech First Class
    Jan 17 2022

    Bob Bailey had to get out of New Mexico. He was running with the wrong crowd and "ran away from home into the Navy." He started out slow and was not the most squared away sailor, but built his career and matured into a leader that knew how a great tactical sonar man acted.

    He once flew into the air during the emergency blow and lived to tell about it.

    Here's his story. 

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    36 mins
  • EP56, Surfer turned polar explorer and circumnavigator, Joe Miller
    Sep 1 2021

    Joe Miller grew up in Virginia Beach surfing and staying away from Navy. It wasn't until he was married and laid off, that Joe reconsidered his decision and joined Uncle Sam's navy as an officer. 

    Joe shares many stories that his wife was tired of hearing that you will love. 

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    48 mins
  • EP55, From Community College Professor to Sub Captain, David Rifkin
    Jun 20 2021

    David Rifkin never planned on joining the Navy. He found the salary for a community college professors not quite enough. He consented to an interview with Adm Rickover and was accepted to the Navy Nuclear Power program.

    David worked his way up the ranks, supporting his sailors and officers making decisions while commanding the USS Billfish, SSN 676.

    He is still active the USSVI as the base commander in Jacksonville, Florida. Who knows, it might be time to take a trip down there for a visit.

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    40 mins
  • EP54 Smoke Shack Standout, Daniel Newcomer
    May 29 2021

    Daniel Newcomer started his submarine career aspirations in 8th grade. His dad was a traveling Baptist preacher and when he was onboard the USS City of Corpus Christi was exposed to a family tour that both surprised and shocked him.

    Now Daniel reconnects with his submarine brothers and enjoys reminiscing about his times in the smoke shack. He also has reconciled with his Dad. I guess his dad came around to the fact that submariners are good folks deep down.

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    45 mins