At a time when information about science and technology is often simplified, taken out of context, or mixed with misinformation, it is becoming increasingly difficult for the public to navigate these topics. The podcast V jádru dobrý (Good to the Core) therefore offers a space for comprehensible, factual, and open explanations through interviews with experts who have been working in these fields for a long time.
The aim of the podcast is to bring the general public closer to a world that fundamentally influences the shape of current and future technologies. The host of the show, Ing. Ondřej Kořistka, MBA, from the Department of Dosimetry and Ionizing Radiation Applications, invites experts who have long been involved in research, teaching, and practice in the fields of physics, nuclear technology, medicine, space research, and safety to the studio.
Nuclear renaissance and the "deal of the century"
The introductory episode focuses on current trends in nuclear reactors and technologies that will have a fundamental impact on energy in Czechia and abroad in the coming years. Topics such as the state energy concept are discussed in the pilot episode by nuclear physicist and chairman of the Young Generation of the Czech Nuclear Society, Ing. Ondřej Novák, Ph.D.
"The nuclear industry is a high value-added industry. Manufacturing components for nuclear power plants, operating them, or exporting electricity is a great business that also creates many well-paid jobs. If we transformed ourselves into a strong industrial state focused on nuclear technology, we could be a rich country," Novák comments.
The interview also touches on the political aspect and the role of the state in the nuclear sector. According to Novák, the state's role is to set the rules, not to be a direct player—for example, by supporting sources so that they remain stable in the long term. The often-discussed topic of the construction of Dukovany is also related to this issue.
"The signing of new blocks in Czechia marks the start of a kind of nuclear renaissance. I think we are at a turning point. Now we will see how capable the suppliers will be. If everything goes well, we can send a positive signal to other countries," he adds.
In the episode, Novák also comments on the selection of KHNP as the supplier. Although he describes the price offered by the company to Czechia as a "bargain of the century," other factors were also decisive, such as guarantees and high-quality, timely documentation.
A stable environment can also be gradually ensured in other ways. One of them is small modular reactors (SMRs), which could eventually replace coal sources, for example. "We have to build everything we can. But there are locations where a large reactor simply won't fit. It is also necessary to work with renewable sources. The need will be great and there will be a shortage of electricity," he adds.
The podcast V jádru dobrý (Good to the Core) is released once a month and is available at YouTube, Spotify a Apple Podcasts.
Translated with Deepl (free version)