LM Launches First Ever Podcast Series

In honor of its 20th anniversary, the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Legacy Management debuts its first podcast Dec. 15. The podcast series includes four episodes, each featuring a different member of the LM team. 

The podcast series provides insight into LM’s mission, celebrates the organization’s accomplishments, and highlights the positive impacts to human health and the environment that have resulted from LM’s 20 years of work. 

“This new podcast is a powerful tool to help communicate LM’s mission,” said LM Education, Communication, History, and Outreach Team Lead David Von Behren. “Podcasts are a great way to reach a new audience that may not know LM or the work we do every day to continue protecting people and the environment for future generations.” 

The first episode features DOE Historian Eric Boyle, who transferred to LM in 2020. Boyle explains why LM was created, highlighting the events that led to its inception.

“It’s important our audience understands the history of our office,” Von Behren added. 

The second episode features LM Technical Director for Long-Term Stewardship Tania Smith Taylor. Smith Taylor has worked in a variety of roles for LM, serving as the deputy director for the Office of Site Operations and as deputy director for the Office of Business Operations before taking on the technical director role in 2022. She explains some of LM’s programs, their objectives, and how they advance LM’s mission. 

Following Smith Taylor’s deep dive into LM’s programs, in the third episode, STEM with LM Coordinator Shawn Montgomery breaks down LM’s educational programs in science, technology, engineering, and math at the organization’s three interpretive and visitors centers. He explains the STEM with LM program, providing a brief history and detailing its initiatives. 

“STEM with LM is a crucial piece of LM programming,” Von Behren said. “Since its creation, the program has provided students, professionals, and teachers opportunities to learn and explore STEM education. We are excited to share all the current and upcoming STEM initiatives.” 

Wrapping up the 20th anniversary series, episode four features LM Director Carmelo Melendez. The interview delves into Melendez’s background, why he became involved in environmental management, and his views on the future of LM and its programs. 

“We believe this podcast will be a great way to interact with members of the public and to celebrate the hardworking professionals on the LM team,” Von Behren said. “We are looking to utilize this form of communication even further. We look forward to using this podcast to provide important information to the public.”