The Great Bitter Land I Was Born to Defend

Peter Sagal and Craig Mazin discuss the second episode of Chernobyl. With untold millions at risk after the explosion, nuclear physicist Ulana Khomyuk (Emily Watson) makes a desperate attempt to reach Valery Legasov (Jared Harris) and warn him about the threat of a second explosion that could devastate the continent. Mazin sheds light on the real-life scientists who inspired the composite character Khomyuk and demystifies how nuclear radiation works. He also gives context about seemingly small details, like the poem being read on the radio, and we get more surprising answers from Sagal's "really?" questions.

The Chernobyl Podcast is produced by HBO in conjunction with Pineapple Street Media. Original music by Kaan Erbay. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices