Does Your Yoga Teacher Handle Radioactive Material? Mine Does!

My yoga teacher, the tree-hugging radiation protection technician... In this episode of Naked Nuclear, host Danielle speaks with Caroline Cooley, a tree-hugging, Prius-driving, vegetarian yoga teacher who unexpectedly found her way into the nuclear industry as a Radiation Protection Technician.

Caroline shares her journey from corporate America to working alongside her husband in the nuclear field, offering insights into the roles and responsibilities of decontamination workers and radiation protection technicians. They discuss the safety protocols, personal protective equipment used, and the exposure levels to radiation, debunking some common misconceptions about the industry.

Caroline also touches on how her background in yoga helps her remain calm and handle fear in this demanding job. This episode provides a unique look at a non-traditional career path, the evolving diversity in the nuclear industry, and the importance of stringent safety measures. Listeners will also learn about pathways into the field and the potential for travel and financial benefits. 00:00 Introduction to Caroline Cooley 00:27 Diving into Nuclear Reactors 01:00 Getting Started in the Nuclear Industry 02:14 Roles and Responsibilities of a Radiation Protection Technician 03:31 Safety Measures and Equipment 07:03 Radiation Exposure and Monitoring 13:11 Career Path and Personal Journey 17:54 Diversity and Evolution in the Nuclear Field 19:46 Nuclear Safety and Environmental Impact 20:51 Yoga and Mindfulness in Nuclear Work 22:52 Rapid-Fire Questions and Fun Facts 26:20 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Looking for where to get started as an RP?

Cape Fear Community College Nuclear Technology

https://cfcc.edu/nuclear-technology/

Westinghouse RP Program 

https://westinghousenuclear.com/media/zhdbuk4m/how-to-become-an-rp-technician-2024.pdf

https://westinghousenuclear.com/operating-plants/outage-services/rp-alara/radiation-protection-training/

Wanna learn more about radiation levels?  

Radiation Levels:

https://www.epa.gov/radiation/radiation-sources-and-doses

https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/5-radioactive-products-we-use-every-day

Sober Spaces at Jam Band Concerts

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/arts/looking-for-sober-friends-at-a-concert-find-the-deadheads-with-a-yellow-balloon