Podcasts about climatetech

It's World Space Week, and we're fueling up the rocket for a tour of some missions and projects that could provide insights into major space mysteries. Astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi joins Host Flora Lichtman to celebrate the wonders of space science, from the recently launched IMAP, which will study the solar environment, to the new Vera Rubin Observatory, and big physics projects like LIGO. Plus, the latest in climate tech: MIT Technology Review has published its annual list of climate tech companies that show great promise in work ranging from producing sodium ion batteries to recycling rare earth magnets. Host Ira Flatow talks with climate reporter Casey Crownhart about trends in climate tech and what companies she's excited about.Guests: Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi is an astrophysicist and author of the upcoming book, Why Do We Exist? The Nine Realms of the Universe That Make You Possible, and host of the video podcast “Particles of Thought.”Casey Crownhart is a senior climate reporter for MIT Technology Review based in New York City.Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

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Clean energy founders love to talk about technology, capital, and scale. But few are prepared for the fourth pillar of success: government. Shomik Dutta, a co-founder and managing partner at Overture VC, learned that lesson firsthand after a career that spanned Obama's White House, private equity, and venture capital. His takeaway: “If you're not at the table, you're on the menu.” Shomik thinks the next generation of climate startups must treat policy as a core competency, not an afterthought. That means building real influence in Washington, developing a muscle for storytelling, and sometimes even instilling a little fear in politicians. It's a strategy Overture has baked into its investment model. The firm partners directly with Boundary Stone Partners, one of DC's top government affairs shops, to help portfolio companies navigate regulation and shape outcomes. In this episode, Lara Pierpoint talks with Shomik about how industrial policy is reshaping venture capital, why crypto offers an unexpected lobbying lesson, and how founders can engage the government as a strategic partner— even in this moment of political backlash. Credits: Hosted by Lara Pierpoint. Produced and edited by Stephen Lacey and Anne Bailey. Technical direction by Sean Marquand. Stephen Lacey is executive editor. The Green Blueprint is a co-production of Latitude Media and Trellis Climate. Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get podcasts. For more reporting on the companies featured in this show, subscribe to Latitude Media's newsletter.

In this episode of Tank Talks, Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo break down the latest developments in U.S.-Canada trade negotiations, particularly around tariffs and energy, with insights into how these pressures could shape future relationships.The conversation shifts to the growing energy demands of AI, as Matt and John explore how both the U.S. and China are navigating energy needs, and whether Canada could play a more significant role. They also analyze NVIDIA's $110 billion vendor financing strategy, drawing comparisons to the telecom bubble, and discuss the growing risks in data center financing. With the IPO of Fair Me America, they examine how the market is reacting to tech companies with no assets but huge valuations. A packed episode full of fresh insights on the intersection of tech, politics, and business.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.US-Canada Relations & Trump's Tariff Strategy (04:28)Matt and John discuss the ongoing negotiations between Mark Carney and President Trump regarding trade policies, tariffs, and key sectors like steel, aluminum, and energy. Can Canada withstand the pressure, or will it need to change its approach?The Energy Battle Between the US and China (09:03)What role does energy play in geopolitics? Matt and John explore how both the US and China are navigating their energy needs, and why Canada has lost some of its leverage as the world's energy supply game changes.NVIDIA's Vendor Financing Playbook: Lessons from Lucent & Nortel (11:18)John shares a deep dive into how NVIDIA's vendor financing strategy mirrors the mistakes made during the telecom bubble, drawing parallels to the strategies employed by Lucent and Nortel. What's the risk when revenues are tied to customers who may never pay?AI, Data Centers, and the Future of Technology (17:20)From the massive energy demands of AI to the rise of private equity-backed data centers, Matt and John dissect the latest AI and GPU investments and how the industry's future could be shaped by companies like Meta and OpenAI.The “Yellowstone Club” of Hyperscalers (20:26)The two discuss the bizarre world of hyperscalers and REITs, looking at how some data center startups are getting massive valuations without any real assets or revenue, and what this means for the future of tech investments.Bezos Weighs In on the AI Bubble (25:12)Jeff Bezos surprises everyone with his thoughts on the AI industry, calling it an “industrial bubble” rather than a financial one, and analyzing the disconnect between massive investments and real-world returns.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

Welcome back to the EUCVC Summit Talks, where we bring you candid conversations with Europe's leading founders, corporate leaders, and investors shaping the future of venture collaboration.In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm sits down with Hampus Jakobsson, General Partner at Pale Blue Dot, one of Europe's leading climate-focused funds. With shifting U.S. politics, renewed uncertainty around climate policy, and growing skepticism of “green hype,” Hampus shares why he defines climate investing as simply “not dumb investing.”From Donald Trump's return to the White House to Europe's resilience, China's role, and the gritty reality of scaling “boring but effective” solutions, this conversation is a masterclass in how investors, corporates, and founders can navigate climate risks — and seize opportunities.

Host Brian Walsh takes up ImpactAlpha's top stories with editors David Bank and Amy Cortese. Up this week: At Neighborhood Economics in Chicago, entrepreneurship through acquisition and other promising ideas are filling out the playbook for shared prosperity; How ExxonMobil's new voting program for retail investors aims to change the balance of power in corporate governance. And, how reinsurer GreenieRE is bringing the concept of surety bonds to help scale climate tech investments.Story links:“Expanding ‘entrepreneurship through acquisition' for inclusive wealth creation in the US and Canada,”“Investors who refuse to take a loyalty oath to ExxonMobil should decline to join its ‘retail voting program,'” by As You Sow's Andrew Behar“GreenieRe sees ‘impact insurance' surety bonds as the key to scaling climate tech,” by Amy Cortese

Host Brian Walsh takes up ImpactAlpha's top stories with editors David Bank and Amy Cortese. Up this week: At Neighborhood Economics in Chicago, entrepreneurship through acquisition and other promising ideas are filling out the playbook for shared prosperity; How ExxonMobil's new voting program for retail investors aims to change the balance of power in corporate governance. And, how reinsurer GreenieRE is bringing the concept of surety bonds to help scale climate tech investments.Story links:“⁠Expanding ‘entrepreneurship through acquisition' for inclusive wealth creation in the US and Canada⁠,”“⁠Investors who refuse to take a loyalty oath to ExxonMobil should decline to join its ‘retail voting program,'⁠” by As You Sow's Andrew Behar“⁠GreenieRe sees ‘impact insurance' surety bonds as the key to scaling climate tech⁠,” by Amy Cortese

Episode Summary: Benoy sits down with Dimitrios Parikos, Senior Managing Director for Global Energy & Climate Tech Practice at Brown & Brown Risk Solutions, to unpack how insurance fits into underwriting, what coverages matter from construction through operations, how to navigate hail/wildfire risk, and why engaging a broker early protects your projects. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla's Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm's renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Dimitrios Parikos Dimitrios Parikos is Senior Managing Director, Global Energy & Climate Tech at Brown & Brown Risk Solutions. With 25 years in insurance and 19 years focused on renewables, he leads a specialized team serving the energy industry for their insurance needs.. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com  LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com   Dimitrios Parikos  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimitriosparikos/  Website:  https://www.bbrown.com/us/   Email:  Dimitrios.Parikos@bbrown.com 

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to dive deep into the rapidly evolving AI landscape, its economic ramifications, and Canada's growing potential as a global tech leader. They discuss pivotal topics, such as energy challenges in AI infrastructure, the rise of AI tokenization, and the impact of government policies on the sector. With a focus on the future of tech, investments, and the role of Canada, this episode offers an insightful look at where the industry is headed.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.AI Energy Demands & Canada's Opportunity (00:04:39)John and Matt discuss the massive demand for compute power in AI and Canada's potential to lead by meeting these energy needs. They highlight the importance of matching energy capacity with data center development to become a global tech leader.The AI CapEx Boom and the Trillion-Dollar Question (00:07:05)The discussion shifts to the booming capital expenditures in AI, with a particular focus on the rising costs of building AI infrastructure and whether this growth is sustainable in the long term.Canada's AI Strategy and Sovereign Identity (00:14:21)The conversation turns to Canada's AI strategy, with a task force focusing on innovation, research, and talent retention. John shares his thoughts on the potential challenges and opportunities for Canada in becoming a key player in the AI space.The SEC's Push for Tokenization in the U.S. (00:19:33)The episode also delves into the SEC's efforts to allow the tokenization of stocks and what this could mean for the financial industry and blockchain adoption.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline sits down with Virginia Klausmeier, the President and CEO of Sylvatex, a climate tech company. Together, they explore Virginia's journey of founding and scaling an impact-driven business and her mission to create a more sustainable future.Key themes include:Virginia's path to founding Sylvatex and the unique challenges of scaling a climate tech company.The essential need to secure the right investors who are aligned with your company's mission.The vital importance of a strong support system for female founders navigating a male-dominated industry.The significance of trusting one's intuition and the power of perseverance in the face of entrepreneurial challenges.The energy implications of technological advancements and the necessity of building sustainable solutions.00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:39 Guest Introduction: Virginia Klausmeier of Sylvatex02:52 Virginia's Journey and Vision for Sylvatex06:26 Challenges and Insights in Climate Tech13:58 Navigating the Investment Landscape23:39 Balancing Growth and Values30:45 Navigating Hardships as a Minority Leader32:40 Balancing Personal and Professional Life35:40 Building a Support System38:08 The Importance of Community and Mentorship43:48 Advice for Aspiring Founders50:00 Final Thoughts and EncouragementConnect with Virgina:For more information about Sylvatex and their work in sustainable battery materials, visit sylvatex.com or connect with Virginia on LinkedIn.Connect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless! Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

Im aktuellen Climate Business Talk sind Paul Nimmerfall und Jakob Zenz vom Wiener Climate-Tech-Startup Econetix zu Gast. Das Unternehmen hat seine Seed-Finanzierungsrunde unlängst auf 4,5 Millionen Euro erweitert – eine der größten Finanzierungsrunden in der DACH-Region für ein Climate-Tech in dieser Phase.Econetix versteht sich als globaler Carbon Asset Manager. Mit einem KI-gestützten Monitoring für Klimaschutzprojekte bringt das Startup neue Transparenz und Integrität in den Markt für CO2-Zertifikate. Über Satellitenbilder, Drohnen und Sensoren werden Daten in Echtzeit erhoben, die zeigen, wie viel CO₂ tatsächlich eingespart oder entfernt wird – sei es durch Aufforstungen, den Ausbau erneuerbarer Energien oder innovative Lösungen wie Solarlampen in afrikanischen Ländern.

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to discuss pivotal developments shaping Canada's economy and tech industry. They cover a range of topics, from Canada's immigration policies in light of changes to the U.S. H1-B visa program to the evolving AI landscape and its economic implications. John provides insights on how Canada could leverage these immigration shifts to attract global talent, while exploring the risks of inflated AI valuations and the potential for an AI bubble.The conversation also delves into the rising vendor financing model in AI, which could contribute to market instability, and examines whether the massive investments in AI infrastructure are sustainable. John reflects on the challenges facing Canadian companies, including the latest news from Constellation Software and its founder, Mark Leonard's resignation. Together, they explore how AI and its financial impact may create headwinds for established companies while offering opportunities for the Canadian tech sector to emerge as a global leader.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.AI CapEx Bubble: A Growing Concern (07:30)The conversation shifts to the massive capital expenditures in AI, with John analyzing the risks associated with overbuilding data center infrastructure and the possibility of a tech bubble.Vendor Financing in AI: A Dot-Com Repeat? (09:52)John draws parallels between current AI financing models and the early 2000s dot-com bubble, exploring whether companies are overexposed in the AI sector.The Future of AI Valuations (15:04)An in-depth discussion on the risks of inflated AI company valuations and the potential economic fallout.Canada's Immigration Advantage: H1-B Visa Adjustments (18:12)John and Matt discuss the implications of recent changes to the U.S. H1-B visa program and how Canada could use this shift to attract top talent.Constellation Software: A Transition and the Role of AI (27:09)John reflects on the recent news of Mark Leonard's resignation from Constellation Software and what this means for the company, especially in light of AI-driven changes.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Nejeed Kassam, a serial founder, investor, and advocate for positive change. With a journey that spans from launching his first business as a teenager to scaling and selling Keela, a CRM for nonprofits, Nejeed's experience offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, especially those navigating the challenges of building tech-driven impact companies.Nejeed shares his entrepreneurial beginnings, the lessons he learned growing Keela, and the challenges he faced when taking on external funding. He also discusses his new venture, Rewire Digital Therapeutics, an AI-powered mental health company using gamification to help users manage depression and anxiety.From scaling Keela to navigating a successful exit, Nejeed dives into his journey and the key principles he follows in his entrepreneurial endeavors. Whether you're interested in nonprofit tech, mental health, or financial literacy, Nejeed's story provides inspiration and practical wisdom.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.Nejeed's Early Entrepreneurial Beginnings (08:12)* Starting a business at 14 with his brothers in Vancouver* Learning from early failures and the importance of sales in businessScaling Keela and the Path to Acquisition (15:17)* The journey from building Keela as a side hustle to scaling it into a successful company* The decision-making process behind bringing in external capital and navigating an exit* Insights on the acquisition process and private equity rollupsRewire Digital Therapeutics: Tackling Mental Health with AI (25:34)* How Nejeed's personal experiences with mental health drove him to create Rewire* Leveraging AI and gamification to address mental health issues like depression and anxiety* The future of digital therapeutics and its potential to impact millionsFinancial Literacy: Teaching Kids Money Management (35:11)* How Nejeed teaches his kids about financial literacy* Building the financial literacy platform, Snowball 72, and its impact on Gen Z and Gen Alpha* The importance of creating safe, accessible financial learning environmentsNejeed's Lessons on Building Impactful Businesses (45:23)* The importance of staying committed to solving meaningful problems* Building businesses that balance profit with positive societal impact* The role of resilience and discomfort in entrepreneurshipAbout Nejeed KassamNejeed Kassam is a serial entrepreneur, author, and advocate for positive change. He co-founded Keela, a CRM for nonprofits, which he successfully scaled and sold in 2024. He is now co-founder of Rewire Digital Therapeutics, a company focused on using AI and gamification to help people manage mental health issues like depression and anxiety. In addition to his work in tech, Nejeed is passionate about financial literacy and has launched Snowball 72, a platform aimed at teaching the next generation about money management. Nejeed's entrepreneurial spirit is driven by his desire to solve real-world problems and make a meaningful impact on society.Connect with Nejeed Kassam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nejeed/Visit the Keela website: https://www.keela.co/Visit the Rewire Digital Therapeutics website: https://rewiredigitaltherapeutics.com/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

What if more people could invest directly in the world's most promising climate technologies? In this episode of DeepDive Cleantech, host David Wortmann speaks with Jacqueline van den Ende, co-founder and CEO of Carbon Equity, a unique climate fintech platform that opens up private equity and venture capital to a broader base of investors. To tackle the climate crisis, we must rebuild nearly every part of our fossil-fueled economy at speed. Carbon Equity is one of the few platforms globally that offers retail and private investors direct access to top-tier climate tech funds. Through its fintech platform, Carbon Equity lowers the barrier to entry (from €20K) and channels capital directly into climate R&D, tech, and scaling. With over €330M raised from 1,500+ investors, Carbon Equity channels capital into the innovation that matters most: geothermal, carbon-free cement, battery storage, and AI-powered material discovery, while offering strong financial returns and true climate impact.

Vediamoci! Il 24 settembre, alle 18:00 siamo alla Triennale di Milano per un nostro live podcast!

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by Christian Weedbrook, Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a groundbreaking Canadian company leading the charge in photonic quantum computing. With over $250 million raised, Xanadu is on track to revolutionize industries through its cutting-edge quantum technologies.Christian discusses his transition from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a quantum company, and the potential for quantum computing to reshape industries like AI, drug discovery, and materials science. He shares his insights on Canada's role in the future of quantum tech, how quantum's “ChatGPT moment” will likely change the game, and why error correction is the key to scalable quantum applications.Christian also dives into Xanadu's ambitious plans for a quantum data center in Toronto, aiming to leverage room-temperature photonic computing to create the world's first fault-tolerant quantum computing environment by 2029. From AI-driven innovation to material science breakthroughs, this episode is packed with insights on how the future of computing is being redefined.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.Christian's Journey from Quantum Physics to Entrepreneurial Vision (08:15)* The transition from academia to founding Xanadu.* Early quantum research and turning theory into a business.Quantum's "ChatGPT Moment" (13:10)* How quantum computing's breakthrough will mirror AI's rise.* The promise of quantum in industries like AI and drug discovery.The Challenges of Quantum Capital and Investment (16:20)* The hurdles of fundraising and dealing with investors unfamiliar with quantum technology.Xanadu's Recent Breakthrough in Photonic Error Correction (18:47)* How solving error correction will pave the way for real-world quantum applications.* Quantum advantage in practical settings.Canada's Advantage in Quantum and Xanadu's Global Impact (22:01)* Why Christian chose to build Xanadu in Toronto.* How Canada can lead the quantum revolution and avoid the pitfalls faced by the AI sector.The Future of Quantum Chemistry and Material Science (39:10)* The role of quantum computing in next-gen battery and solar cell development.* Why quantum chemistry is the next big frontier.About Christian WeedbrookChristian Weedbrook is the Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a leading quantum computing company based in Toronto, specializing in photonic quantum technologies. With a PhD in quantum computing, Christian has held postdoctoral positions at MIT and the University of Toronto, contributing to groundbreaking work in the field. He founded Xanadu in 2016, aiming to make quantum computing scalable and commercially viable. Under his leadership, the company has raised over $250 million and is on track to build the world's first fault-tolerant quantum data center by 2029. Christian is dedicated to positioning Canada as a global leader in quantum computing and helping to unlock its potential across industries like AI, drug discovery, and material science.Connect with Christian Weedbrook on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianweedbrook/Visit the Xanadu website: https://www.xanadu.ai/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to dive into a wide range of topics affecting Canada's economy, from energy and tech to blockchain. They discuss the government's announcement of major projects like LNG Canada's expansion and the critical need for nuclear energy. The conversation also touches on Canada's role in the global energy market, especially with the growing importance of renewables and the challenges of balancing carbon-based energy.The episode shifts to AI and blockchain, exploring how Canada can stay competitive in the tech race. They also dive into the rise of stablecoins in Canada with Tetra Digital Group's new Canadian peg stablecoin aimed at transforming B2B payments. Lastly, the episode examines the increasing presence of Canadian executives in U.S. tech companies and the risks of overvaluation in the AI startup space.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.LNG, Nuclear & Energy Future: Canada's Next Big Steps (00:07:13)Matt and John discuss the announcement of major energy projects in Canada, including LNG Canada's expansion and the importance of investing in nuclear energy for the future.Stablecoin Innovation: The Canadian Peg Stablecoin (00:15:01)Tetra Digital Group in Calgary launches a Canadian peg stablecoin set to revolutionize B2B payments. John and Matt explore how it could impact Canada's financial landscape.Opendoor's New CEO: Canadian Leadership in U.S. Tech (00:18:25)Opendoor appoints a Canadian executive as CEO, sparking a conversation about the growing influence of Canadian tech talent in major U.S. companies.AI Valuations: Are We Heading for a Tech Crash? (00:25:39)With the AI boom in full swing, Matt and John examine the potential for overvaluation and the risks of an AI bubble, echoing insights from Vinod Khosla on market “carnage.”AI's Future: Innovation or Overhype? (00:26:15)Matt and John delve into the power law of investing, discussing how capital is flowing into AI and why only a few companies will win big while many others will fail.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

Raj shares his remarkable path from building companies like Snapfish, Fitmob, and Lyft to co-founding Climactic, a venture fund tackling the climate crisis. In this conversation, he reveals lessons on entrepreneurship, pivots, investing in AI & robotics for climate solutions, and coaching founders to lead with resilience. A must-watch for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone passionate about technology and climate innovation.

Climate tech companies face a range of structural challenges to securing the mid stage investment needed to scale their solutions. The lack of capital at this stage prevents many viable, potentially transformative technologies from going mainstream and eliminating gigatons of emissions. That's why we've been running a series of episodes on the Missing Middle in Climate Tech in partnership with Spring Lane Capital. If you haven't heard our previous three episodes in this series, check them out at investedinclimate.com, and if you have ideas of other topics that warrant a Deep Dive series please reach out through the contact form on our website. For the fourth episode in our series, I'm joined by Spring Lane Capital Co-Founder and Partner Rob Day who guest hosts the conversation with Blackhorn Ventures Managing Partner Melissa Cheong. On today's episode, we cover:2:23 – Introducing Blackhorn Ventures & Melissa Chong3:31 – Melissa's Path to Venture Capital & Impact Investing8:44 – Surprises & Learnings in Venture Capital10:13 – Overview of Blackhorn Ventures' Investment Focus & Strategy13:55 – Addressing the Missing Middle: Digital vs. Hardware Solutions17:18 – Leveraging Accepted Hardware & Digital Solutions19:09 – The Role of Vertical Data Pools in Construction and Energy21:03 – AI, Utilities, and the Urgency for Digital Solutions25:10 – Building Resilience & Anti-Fragile Mindsets in Climate Tech28:14 – Exploring New Financing Instruments & Insurance32:21 – Portfolio Example: Formic – Robotics as a Service36:37 – Portfolio Example: King Energy – Solar for Multi-Tenant Properties38:55 – Lessons from Community Solar & Smart Billing40:00 – Takeaways: The Evolving Role of Venture Capital in Climate Impact43:24 – Closing RemarksResources MentionedSpring Lane CapitalBlackhorn VenturesFormicKing EnergyConnect with usRob DayMelissa CheongJason RissmanKeep up with Invested In ClimateSign up for our NewsletterLinkedIn

Host Brian Walsh takes up ImpactAlpha's top stories with editor David Bank. Up this week: The All Aboard Coalition's effort to mobilize $300 million for venture capital co-investments in first of a kind climate-tech projects; the role of fashion brands in supporting regenerative cotton in Peru (06:55); and why decentralized physical infrastructure networks, or DePINs, are a promising model for sustainable community services (11:00).Story links:“All Aboard Coalition mobilizes co-investments in climate tech as federal funding falters,” by Amy Cortese“Fashion brands step into the aid gap to back regenerative cotton in Peru's Amazon,” by Erik Stein“A new model for digital infrastructure: Decentralized and community owned,” by Crypto Council for Innovation's Renee Pinto da Silva BartonMusic by Isaac Silk and DELOSound

Host Brian Walsh takes up ImpactAlpha's top stories with editor David Bank. Up this week: The All Aboard Coalition's effort to mobilize $300 million for venture capital co-investments in first of a kind climate-tech projects; the role of fashion brands in supporting regenerative cotton in Peru (06:55); and why decentralized physical infrastructure networks, or DePINs, are a promising model for sustainable community services (11:00).Story links:“⁠All Aboard Coalition mobilizes co-investments in climate tech as federal funding falters⁠,” by Amy Cortese“⁠Fashion brands step into the aid gap to back regenerative cotton in Peru's Amazon⁠,” by Erik Stein“⁠A new model for digital infrastructure: Decentralized and community owned⁠,” by Crypto Council for Innovation's Renee Pinto da Silva Barton⁠⁠Music by Isaac Silk and ⁠DELOSound⁠

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Nikunj Kothari, Partner at FPV Ventures, to explore his journey from product leader at LinkedIn, Opendoor, and Meter to early-stage investor. Nikunj shares candid insights on why the best companies thrive under benevolent dictatorships, how AI is reshaping SaaS pricing models, and what makes founders truly exceptional.From his early years growing up in India to becoming one of the most thoughtful voices in venture, Nikunj opens up about his decision to leave operating roles, his angel investing beginnings, and his transition to VC at storied firm Khosla Ventures before joining FPV. He also dives deep into evaluating founders, navigating hypergrowth, and why outcome-based pricing may define the next decade of SaaS.Whether you're a founder looking to scale, an investor trying to spot the next breakout company, or simply curious about how AI is rewriting business models, this episode is packed with hard-earned lessons and bold ideas.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.From India to Silicon Valley: Nikunj's Early Journey (00:08:21)How his blend of engineering, design, and business led him to product management at LinkedIn and startups.Learning From Hypergrowth at LinkedIn and Opendoor (00:011:23)Why talent density and ambitious missions drive scaling organizations.The Investor's Lens: Spotting Latitude in Founders (00:013:32)Nikunj's framework for evaluating founder vision and depth at the earliest stages.Why the Best Companies Are Benevolent Dictatorships (00:015:39)How companies like Shopify and Coinbase thrive under strong, opinionated leaders.The Tension for Non-Founders in Dictatorship Environments (00:21:09)Nikunj's personal lessons as a PM executing a founder's vision.The Pivot to Investing: From Angel Checks to Khosla Ventures (00:23:26)Why he left operating roles, and what he had to unlearn as he became a VC.Joining FPV Ventures and Betting on Founder POVs (00:27:18)How FPV approaches concentrated early-stage investing with diligence and conviction.Gross Margins, Kingmaking, and the VC Trap (00:32:09)Why focusing on revenue quality matters more than chasing top-line growth.AI and the Future of SaaS Pricing Models (00:39:31)How outcome-based and usage-based pricing will disrupt per-seat SaaS models.Navigating Enterprise AI Adoption (00:44:22)The role of champions in enterprise sales and lessons from scar tissue in early adoption.Competing in Crowded Markets: The Series A Challenge (00:47:31)Why exceptional founders and market depth matter more than being first.Hot Takes: Solo Founders in the AI Era and the Future of IPOs (00:54:24)Nikunj's contrarian views on solo founders and whether Canva will go public.About Nikunj KothariNikunj Kothari is a Partner at FPV Ventures, where he focuses on early-stage investments with a founder-first approach. Previously, he was a product leader at LinkedIn, Opendoor, and Meter, where he helped scale hypergrowth startups and navigate tough product challenges. Nikunj began angel investing while at Opendoor and later joined Khosla Ventures, before moving to FPV to pursue concentrated, high-conviction seed and Series A investments. Known for his sharp writing on venture and product strategy, Nikunj has become a leading voice on topics ranging from benevolent dictatorships to the future of SaaS pricing.Connect with Nikunj Kothari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikunjkVisit the FPV Ventures website: https://fpvventures.com/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

Wildfires don't sleep, so why should our firefighting technology? In this episode, host Marco Pimentel sits down with aerospace engineer and FireSwarm co-founder Alex Deslauriers, whose personal experience during Canada's worst wildfire season inspired a bold new idea: deploying AI-powered drone swarms to fight fires 24/7. With heavy-lift drones carrying 350kg payloads and flying when helicopters can't, FireSwarm's technology could transform wildfire response and reshape a $200B disaster market.

This episode explores the evolution of Josh Dorfman's personal brand in sustainability, from The Lazy Environmentalist to climate-tech ventures like Plantd and Supercool. Josh shares how authentic storytelling, strategic pivots, and mission alignment shaped his journey — and how he's used his platform to engage new audiences with climate solutions.

Comments, guest ideas: theasiaclimatecapitalpodcast@gmail.comJoseph Jacobelli and Toby Chan unpack the dynamic landscape of climate tech investing in Asia. The discussion highlights current VC trends, financing gaps, and the transition from emerging tech to mainstream infrastructure, with case studies from maritime and aviation. Discover why Asia is gaining ground amid US policy shifts and how policy, capital, and supply chains are driving change in the region.ABOUT TOBY: Toby is a co-founder of Audacy Ventures Limited, focused on catalysing and scaling decarbonisation technologies critical to the energy transition post his prior career in traditional energy and renewables. Audacy is an early growth stage investor and supports technologies related to energy efficiency, transportation and industrial decarbonisation, that are in early stages of commercialisation particularly in the APAC region.Toby has 20 years of investments and advisory experience across energy, infrastructure, technology, real estate and natural resources. Toby advised on over US$15bn of transactions whilst at Macquarie Capital and was part of the founding team of Kerogen Capital, a specialist in international energy investments with over US$2 billion AUM.FEEDBACK: Email Host | HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep0-29 The Open Goldberg Variations, Kimiko Ishizaka Ep30-50 Orchestra Gli Armonici – Tomaso Albinoni, Op.07, Concerto 04 per archi in Sol - III. Allegro. | Ep51 – Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G, Movement I (Allegro), BWV 1049 Kevin MacLeod. Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

El mundo no cambia solo, necesita de personas dispuestas a dar el primer paso. En este episodio de Efecto Disruptivo, Juan del Cerro y Cris Arias nos recuerdan que un “granito de arena” puede convertirse en una ola de transformación. Arrancamos con el chisme de impacto sobre la barrera antisargazo, una solución tecnológica que podría ahorrar millones y salvar nuestras playas.  Después conversamos con Erika Sánchez (GIZ) y Majo Hagerman (ADEU) sobre cómo cerrar la brecha de género en el sector climate tech y por qué hacer que la sostenibilidad sea conveniente es clave para que todos podamos adoptarla. Finalmente, hablamos con Shanti de LatImpacto sobre el papel del capital catalítico y lo que traerá Impact Minds, uno de los eventos más importantes de inversión de impacto en América Latina. Queremos escuchar tu voz: cuéntanos qué te paeció el programa.

Learn how to dramatically lower HVAC energy use via metal organic frameworks with Sorin Grama, CEO of Transaera.

On this episode, Nick is joined by John Tough, the Managing Partner of Energize Capital, a leading venture capital firm that invests in climate solutions across sectors, including energy and the grid, as well as industrial operations, electrification in mobility, and more. Listen in as Nick and John chart Energize Capital's journey and break down its investment and portfolio company support strategies. Further, Nick and John discuss the state of climate tech markets in the U.S. and Europe in 2025, make predictions for the coming decades, and home in on positives even as uncertainty abounds with shifting U.S. policy. Further, Nick and John dive into: Technology trends and market dynamics in the energy transition in 2025: Nick and John discuss major shifts in electrification and how climate tech 2.0 differs from cleantech 1.0, including a focus on mass adoption of EVs and related infrastructure, the increasing role of digital tools within traditional energy sectors, and the emergence of V2G technologies in markets like Europe. They also emphasize how cross-market learning can inform strategy and how cost declines in hardware (solar, batteries) create new opportunities for growth and innovation.The role of specialized venture capital and investment strategies in climate tech: Their conversation highlights the importance of specialist investors in the climate tech market, distinguishing Energize Capital's research-driven and hands-on approach to investing and supporting portfolio companies, the evolution of its funds, and why deep understanding of industry problems—rather than just technologies—is critical for successful investments and scaling businesses.Resilience amidst uncertainty, and longer-term outlook for the climate sector: The podcast also pays significant attention to diagnosing and making prognosis for the unique moment climate tech, both in the U.S. and elsewhere, is in in 2025, with nods to political and financial uncertainty (e.g., policy shifts, interest rates), and the importance of keeping a long-term perspective. The conversation addressed risks related to fundraising and capital allocation, as well as the effects of negative headlines, and offers pragmatic advice for founders and prospective entrepreneurs to prioritize survival and adaptability.Timestamps:00:01:52 - Introductions00:02:39 - Announcement of $430 million fundraise00:03:57 - Growth and trajectory of Energize Capital00:04:43 - John's background and early career00:09:03 - Echoes of Cleantech 1.0 in Climate Tech 2.000:11:15 - Energize Capital's approach to supporting portfolio companies00:15:07 - Commoditization trends in core climate technologies00:16:59 – Energize Capital's electrify everything focus00:20:03 - Challenges of marrying consumer behavioral change to climate mitigation00:23:44 - Geographic diversity in climate tech investments00:26:39 - Navigating uncertainty in the U.S. markets00:29:43 - Record energy demand as a catalyst for innovation00:31:11 – A focus on positive developments in climate tech00:31:38 - Upgrading the electricity grid for resilience00:34:57 - Importance of a complete perspective on the climate capital stack00:36:21 - Advice for founders and climate curious individuals alike00:38:07 - Highlighting Energize Capital portfolio companiesLearn more about John's work and Energize Capital by following both on LinkedIn and exploring Energize Capital's website and portfolio here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/energize-cap + https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjtough/ +

What does it take to scale the clean energy transition—both at the bleeding edge of new technology and in the nuts-and-bolts of infrastructure?Today's episode dives into the nuanced world of climate finance and infrastructure with Brendan Bell, Chief Operating Officer and Partner at Aligned Climate Capital. Unlike most investors who play in either venture or infrastructure, Align straddles both worlds, backing early-stage companies while also owning and operating clean energy assets.Brendan shares his unusual path from the Sierra Club to the U.S. Senate, the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office, and now into the private sector. Along the way, he offers candid insights into what makes a strong infrastructure investment, how venture-backed technologies eventually scale into bankable assets, and why understanding both sides of the capital stack is critical to accelerating the clean energy transition.This is a masterclass on the interplay between policy, venture innovation, and hard infrastructure. If you've ever wondered how moonshot technologies meet the realities of capital markets and project finance, this conversation will give you the inside view.

Cohosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar welcome Josh Dorfman, Co-founder, CEO, and host of SuperCool, to talk about the adoption era of climate tech—where real solutions are cutting emissions and saving money today. Josh shares insights from BrainBox AI's energy-saving building systems, Google's Project Sunroof, and even a Pennsylvania school district saving big with solar and electric school buses. We also dive into Josh's own startup, Planted Materials, building carbon-negative housing panels. In the second half, we geek out over: • McDonald's TMNT × Hello Kitty Happy Meal toys • A Sam's Club pumpkin diorama that's perfect for spooky season • YouTube's new Gemini “Ask About This Video” AI button (screenshot demo) • And the latest in gaming with Chachi's Video Game Minute, including Fast & Furious Arcade and Red Dead Redemption 2 sales milestones. We wrap with some Patreon-exclusive extras: the ElliQ companion robot, Discord's new “Play Instantly” feature, and a behind-the-scenes look at “poddy editing.” Stay tuned for optimism, gadgets, and a reminder that climate tech is cooler—and closer—than you think

Cohosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar welcome Josh Dorfman, Co-founder, CEO, and host of SuperCool, to talk about the adoption era of climate tech—where real solutions are cutting emissions and saving money today. Josh shares insights from BrainBox AI's energy-saving building systems, Google's Project Sunroof, and even a Pennsylvania school district saving big with solar and electric school buses. We also dive into Josh's own startup, Planted Materials, building carbon-negative housing panels. In the second half, we geek out over: • McDonald's TMNT × Hello Kitty Happy Meal toys • A Sam's Club pumpkin diorama that's perfect for spooky season • YouTube's new Gemini “Ask About This Video” AI button (screenshot demo) • And the latest in gaming with Chachi's Video Game Minute, including Fast & Furious Arcade and Red Dead Redemption 2 sales milestones. We wrap with some Patreon-exclusive extras: the ElliQ companion robot, Discord's new “Play Instantly” feature, and a behind-the-scenes look at “poddy editing.” Stay tuned for optimism, gadgets, and a reminder that climate tech is cooler—and closer—than you think

GSD Presents: Top Global Startups with Matias Sigal AI-Powered Solar: Scaling Climate Tech, Winning Customers, and Finding the Next Big IdeaAugust 13th, Wednesday

As global industries face mounting pressure to operate more efficiently and sustainably, many are turning to the combined power of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). From optimising energy usage to enabling real-time decision-making, these technologies are reshaping how businesses think about infrastructure, impact, and innovation. But the road to adoption isn't without its challenges, from data literacy to greenwashing.In this episode of Tech Transformed, Em360Tech host Trisha Pillay talks with Akanksha Sharma, Senior Director at the GSMA Foundation, about how these emerging technologies are creating tangible value, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and industries with legacy systems like utilities. IOT and AISharma highlights that the 2020s will be remembered as the decade when IoT experiences exponential growth, supported by data from GSMA Intelligence projecting over 37 billion IoT connections worldwide by 2030, more than doubling the number recorded in 2021. She notes that, unlike previous technological waves, AI adoption is accelerating rapidly, moving from niche awareness to mainstream use within just a few years.When discussing climate action and carbon markets, Sharma stresses the need for transparent, data-backed verification mechanisms. She warns against superficial greenwashing practices and advocates for AI systems that prioritise accuracy and ethical standards to ensure genuine environmental benefits.TakeawaysData-driven infrastructure can turn sustainability into reality.AI and IoT are set to scale in the 2020s.Small and medium enterprises face unique operational challenges.Digital solutions can enhance the accuracy of carbon credits.Greenwashing misleads consumers about environmental benefits.Digital literacy is a major barrier to technology adoption.Start with the 'why' when adopting new technologies.Ethics in AI must be prioritised to avoid negative consequences.The world is changing due to climate change and technology.Collaboration is key to effective climate action.Chapters:00:00 – Transforming Sustainability with Data-Driven Infrastructure03:05 – The Role of AI and IoT in Enterprises09:10 – Challenges in Operational Efficiency and Sustainability13:42 – Real-World Impact of AI and IoT16:57 – Carbon Markets and Digital Solutions21:08 – Understanding Greenwashing23:30 – Barriers to Technology Adoption26:17 – Key Takeaways and PredictionsAbout Akanksha SharmaAkanksha Sharma leads the ClimateTech and Digital Utilities programmes at GSMA, where she drives innovation at the...

We're back with the third installment in our Missing Middle in Climate Tech series, created in partnership with Spring Lane Capital. If you haven't yet heard the earlier episodes, head to our website for conversations exploring research from CREO and S2G on the financing gap facing climate tech companies caught between early-stage venture and large-scale project finance. And if you have ideas for future series or want to explore a partnership, we'd love to hear from you—reach out via our site (investedinclimate.com/contact).In this episode, we're joined by Jason Scott, Partner and Entrepreneur in Residence at Spring Lane Capital, and Mark Berryman, Partner at Capricorn Investment Group. Capricorn is one of the OGs of sustainable investing, with over two decades of leadership in the space and more than $12 billion in assets under management. This conversation brought together two distinct perspectives: a large, established asset allocator and a nimble firm specializing in project finance and growth-stage venture capital.Mark, recently named LP of the Year by Impact Capital Managers, offered nuanced insights into the challenges and opportunities of bridging the missing middle. Jason's decision to bring him into the conversation sparked a rich dialogue on what it will take to close this critical funding gap. Lots to unpack and learn in this one. Enjoy!On today's episode, we cover:[03:08] Series recap and context on the “Missing Middle" [07:03] Mark's background & experience in climate investing[11:09] Mark's perspective on the "missing middle" & its evolution[14:08] Why mid-sized funds are suited to fill the climate financing gap[17:45] Capricorn's approach to climate portfolios & supporting the ecosystem[21:46] What Mark looks for in emerging fund managers[25:07] Building a fully climate-aligned portfolio & impact reporting[28:45] Where to categorize Spring Lane's investment approach[32:10] The need for more innovative, category-defying climate funds[33:33] Macro context: tariffs, market volatility & long-term climate investing trends[41:33] Three-to-five year outlook for climate investing & the missing middle[44:15] Industry consolidation & future innovations[46:34] Closing remarksResources MentionedSpring Lane CapitalCapricorn Investment GroupThe Role of Family Offices with Spring Lane Capital & CREO, Ep #114Rethinking Climate Finance with Spring Lane Capital...

Ever wonder how we are going to decarbonize heavy industry? Well, you won't have to wonder much longer. Today's guest has an incredible solution that is 1) drop in, 2) cost parity (or better), 3) has an existing supply chain, 4) overcomes any scarcity concerns, and 5) prevents users from changing anything they do. Our guest is Peter Godart, the Co-Founder of Found Energy. Some quotes to hook you:- "We've developed what we call the world's first rechargeable fuel."- "There's really no other technology that can store energy for this long and then be dispatched as easily."- "Aluminum is just one of the best materials we have available to actually burn something."- "If you don't have a green grid, actually exacerbates the issue. At least in the short term, makes things worse."Check Out Our Sponsor!ErthTech Talent: Expert, Affordable CleanTech Search FirmGet the best CleanTech talent without paying absurdly high prices. Affordable: Our search fee is 12-15% of first-year base salary (most charge 25-30%).Specialized: We ONLY work with CleanTech startups.Proven: 70+ placements since 2020 (Aypa Power, ChargeScape, QCells, & more).Save time and money when you work with ErthTech Talent. Plus, Silas runs it, so you already know him. — Reach out and tell him you saw this ad.

Having been an avid consumer of the output of Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) for a few years, I have been keen to have its co-founder, Lauri Myllyvirta, on Kopi Time. Lauri delivers a tour de force here, going over the state of green transition in the US, Europe, China, and other emerging markets while taking into account geopolitics and regulation. We discuss wind, solar, nuclear, and hyrdo generation, while putting coal and gas into context. We also go over climate tech, touching on promising technologies. Lauri ends the discussion by explaining India and Indonesia’s climate change journey. Regardless of sometime conflicting signals from policy makers, climate finance and tech, green innovation and adoption, will go ahead; dedicated analysts like Lauri are on the right side of history. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nelson Switzer, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Climate Innovation Capital, a venture fund, believes that it is an exceptionally good time to invest in climate tech solutions. He recently wrote a book that outlines his investment approach entitled The Gigahorn Hunter: Seven Principles for a Climate Investor. In this episode of Sustainability Leaders, Michael Torrance, Chief Sustainability Officer at BMO, discusses Nelson Switzer's investing approach, investment trends, and opportunities that he has identified in the climate tech space.

DSS Podcast Episode 53: Empowering Change: Neha Mehta's Vision for FinTech, Sustainability & Financial Inclusion In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Neha Mehta, a globally recognized FinTech leader, AI expert, and sustainability advocate. As the Founder and CEO of FemTech Partners, Neha has spent over 19 years transforming the financial landscape, focusing on financial inclusion, women's empowerment, and sustainable development. She is also the author of One Stop, a bestselling book that explores the potential of Super Apps in reshaping financial services for underserved populations. In this conversation, Neha shares her journey from pioneering FinTech solutions to advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), her work in ClimateTech, and how AI can drive financial inclusivity. She also discusses her vision for the future of sustainable finance, her work with blue economy initiatives, and the impact of technology on climate action. Key Highlights: -AI for Financial Inclusion: Neha discusses how Super Apps are bridging the financial divide, enabling better access to financial services in underserved markets, and empowering women entrepreneurs. -Building Sustainable Financial Ecosystems: Learn about Neha's approach to integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into financial ecosystems, especially focusing on climate finance and the blue economy. -Leadership in FinTech & Sustainability: Neha shares her leadership journey and how she's shaping a more inclusive, equitable future in FinTech and sustainable finance. -Global Impact & Mentorship: Insight into Neha's mentorship and advocacy for fostering diversity in the tech and finance industries, and how she's helping the next generation of leaders rise in these fields. Whether you're an entrepreneur, FinTech innovator, or passionate about sustainability, this episode offers valuable insights into how technology is driving inclusive growth, transforming financial services, and powering climate solutions.

Send me a messageIn this episode of Climate Confident, I spoke with Ori Shaashua, Co-founder and CCO of Gigablue, a marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) company taking a radically scalable approach to the carbon challenge.Gigablue's MCFS (Marine Carbon Fixation and Sequestration) method taps into the ocean's natural carbon cycle by cultivating phytoplankton in floating substrates and using gravity, not high-energy processes, to sink captured CO₂ to deep-sea sediment for thousands of years. It's a low-energy, high-durability method that's already secured the largest ocean carbon removal offtake to date.We unpack why mCDR matters, how it compares to nature-based and tech-heavy CDR approaches, and what makes ocean deserts, like those off the coast of New Zealand, ideal sites for safe and measurable sequestration. Ori also outlines their scale-up pathway: from kiloton removals today to multi-megaton capacity by 2029, and potentially gigaton-level by 2035.We dive into the mechanics of traceability, the real costs of permanence, and why MRV (Measurement, Reporting, and Verification) is the make-or-break for CDR credibility. Ori also pulls no punches on what's holding back progress: delayed regulation, weak compliance markets, and over-reliance on short-term carbon offsets.If your company is thinking seriously about durable net zero strategies, or wondering how ocean-based carbon removal fits into the climate tech landscape, this episode delivers real insight.

CleanTech founder Conor Madigan (Aether Fuels) reveals sustainable fuel tech breakthroughs, smart hiring, & building resilient climate startups.Join us as Conor Madigan, Founder and CEO of Aether Fuels, shares how their innovative tech is set to decarbonize aviation and shipping by drastically cutting costs and boosting fuel yield from waste streams. A second-time founder, Conor also unpacks his proven strategies for building high-talent, low-ego teams and fostering constructive tension for optimal results.Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Pocket CastsMemorable Quotes:"The overall result of that is to cut the capex of a plant by about 50%." — Conor Madigan"Until you've built a big network of your own... it's pretty invaluable to have a top-notch recruiter." — Conor Madigan"If you compare an electrified system versus a fired system, you can boost the output by about 20%." — Conor Madigan"I… try to create a constructive sort of tension inside of an organization by pairing together certain personality traits." — Conor MadiganIn this episode, we discuss:00:53 - Introduction to Conor Madigan and Aether Fuels03:55 - Aether Fuels' core technology and market05:27 - The innovation: cutting CAPEX and boosting yield28:00 - The year-long "funnel" to choose the right climate problem30:59 - Conor's philosophy on team building: high talent, low ego32:00 - Creating constructive tension in R&D vs. Engineering38:35 - Why senior hires need to be "player-coaches" at startups40:30 - Transparent communication during challenging times46:00 - Policy trends and market drivers for SAF49:50 - Cost parity expectations for Aether Fuels' productLinksConor Madigan | Aether FuelsConnect with Somil on LinkedIn | Connect with Silas on LinkedInFollow CleanTechies on LinkedInThis podcast is NOT investment advice. Do your homework and due diligence before investing in anything discussed on this podcast.Support the showIf you're gonna change the world, you're gonna need a world-class team. Partner with ErthTech Talent to help you do that, for less. 70+ Placements 5+ Years (exclusively in CleanTech) The Lowest Fees in the Market (12-15% of first-year salary) 90-day placement guarantee It's really hard to say no to that. Wait?! -- The best service is also the cheapest? Seems too good to be true, but it's the entire reason we started this company. We believe that Climate entrepreneurs are doing important work, and there should be a firm to help them find the best talent, without it breaking the bank. Reach out today for a free assessment of your hiring process. hello@erthtechtalent.com

Katherine Boyle and Erin Price-Wright are General Partners at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), leading the firm's American Dynamism practice. This episode explores how their team invests in companies tackling national imperatives—ranging from defense and manufacturing to energy and critical infrastructure. Katherine shares how American Dynamism emerged from portfolio patterns at a16z, while Erin describes how her background at Palantir informs her investment lens. Together, they unpack why the U.S. must reindustrialize, how software is now eating the physical world, and what they look for in high-capex startups. This conversation also highlights the evolving U.S.-China industrial competition, the role of government in innovation, and why talent is moving from Big Tech into “hard tech.”In this episode, we cover: ⁠[02:30]⁠ An overview of a16z⁠[04:59]⁠ Its thesis shift from defense to energy and industry⁠[07:49]⁠ How AI is transforming heavy industries[8:24] Tech stack for US vs. China[12:23]⁠ Role of government versus private capital⁠[16:14]⁠ Why software is still the core of industrial innovation[16:55]⁠ Base Power as a software-led grid infrastructure play⁠[20:42]⁠ When vertical AI-native startups beat incumbents⁠[21:48]⁠ How a16z helps startups navigate Washington⁠[27:51]⁠ Why energy problems require system-level solutions⁠[31:57]⁠ Moats in energy and manufacturing[37:51] a16z's American Dynamism 50 list⁠[40:16]⁠ Battery supply chains and the China dependency⁠[46:44]⁠ Why capital stack strategy matters for hard tech founders⁠[48:52]⁠ Looking 10 years aheadEpisode recorded on May 21, 2025 (Published on July 29, 2025) Enjoyed this episode? Please leave us a review! Share feedback or suggest future topics and guests at info@mcj.vc.Connect with MCJ:Cody Simms on LinkedInVisit mcj.vcSubscribe to the MCJ Newsletter*Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant

$2 trillion flowed into clean energy globally in 2024—more than fossil fuels have ever received in a single year. While political debates rage on, practical climate solutions are already transforming communities across America. Josh Dorfman, CEO and founder of Supercool, reveals how companies like Zum are revolutionizing school transportation by optimizing bus routes with technology and replacing diesel fleets with electric buses. Not only do these solutions reduce emissions, they're creating better experiences for families while saving school districts money.Josh shares insights from his conversations with climate innovators who are making buildings healthier, recycling rare earth magnets that power our modern world, and developing materials that grow 10 times faster than trees for home construction. He explains how urban trees in Barranquilla, Colombia not only prevent students from passing out from heat but also increase property values by 15% - proving environmental improvements can pay for themselves.Join us as we explore how market forces are driving the adoption of renewable energy even in politically conservative states. Josh offers a compelling vision of our future homes as mini power plants sharing energy with neighbors, cancer clinics built without cancer-causing materials, and racing innovations like Formula E that make climate solutions entertaining. This conversation bridges the gap between climate concerns and practical solutions that are creating healthier, more efficient communities today.

Everywhere you look, it seems like bad news for climate tech. Investments are down, the US government has cut incentives and startups are running out of cash. But venture capitalist Vinod Khosla is still bullish, even though the One Big Beautiful Bill cut an estimated $500 billion in green spending. This week on Zero, Akshat Rathi speaks with Khosla to find out when we can expect to see fusion, whether he’s reconsidering investing in the US and why he still thinks the best clean tech is yet to come. Explore further: Trump Immigration Policies Hit Climate Tech Talent Pipeline, Khosla Says Vinod Khosla Says ‘Fusion Will Be Real’ Within the Next Five Years From Brazil to Singapore, Manipulated Mosquitoes Fight Dengue - Bloomberg Zero is a production of Bloomberg Green. Our producer is Oscar Boyd. Special thanks to Brian Kahn, Michelle Ma, Eleanor Harrison Dengate, Jessica Beck, Siobhan Wagner, Meg Szabo, Abby Danzig and Krystal Contreras. Thoughts or suggestions? Email us at zeropod@bloomberg.net. For more coverage of climate change and solutions, visit https://www.bloomberg.com/green.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Impact Highlight series, powered by EUVC, where we bring you the people and perspectives shaping European venture.This week, August Solliv is joined by Fabian Heilemann, founding partner at AENU, a climate-focused Article 9 fund reshaping what institutional-grade impact investing looks like in Europe.A former serial entrepreneur turned VC heavyweight, Fabian spent nearly a decade at Earlybird before launching AENU alongside his brother. Today, he leads a €170M early-stage climate tech fund with one clear mission: backing ventures that can decarbonize at gigaton scale.In this episode, we dive into Fabian's journey from angel investor missteps to system-level innovation, and what it takes to truly build an impact-native VC platform—beyond surface-level ESG.We talk about why the old fund structures don't cut it for deep tech and climate moonshots, what real accountability looks like for impact metrics, and why mission-aligned founders are starting to demand more than just capital.

In this episode, we talk with Eric McShane, co-founder and CEO of Electroflow Technology (backed by Breakthrough Energy Ventures). Eric is on a mission to revolutionize lithium production, a vital battery material.We discuss the "Big Beautiful Bill's" impact on the battery industry and how Electroflow Technology's innovative approach addresses the critical need for domestic lithium production, especially given that "99% of this crucial battery material [LFP] is made in China." Eric shares how their unique process transforms brine into LFP, helping the U.S. become competitive again by "building real stuff" and using abundant low-concentration lithium brine resources.Key Topics:BBB's Impact: The "Big Beautiful Bill's" role in boosting U.S. battery capacity and achieving self-sufficiency in materials like lithium iron phosphate (LFP).Electroflow's Innovation: Details on Electroflow Technology's unique method for transforming brine into LFP and its benefits.Go-to-Market Strategy: Electroflow's plan for market entry and key differentiators.Climate Tech Perspective: Eric's insights on being a climate tech founder and the excitement of "building real stuff."Future Goals: Electroflow Technology's objectives and plans for utilizing U.S. lithium brine resources.Get Involved: How investors and engineers can connect with Electroflow Technology.Support the Show!Upgrade to paid today! It's $10/month or $100/year. Your support helps us continue to bring you valuable CleanTech insights.Upgrade to PaidSupport the showIf you're gonna change the world, you're gonna need a world-class team. Partner with ErthTech Talent to help you do that, for less. 70+ Placements 5+ Years (exclusively in CleanTech) The Lowest Fees in the Market (12-15% of first-year salary) 90-day placement guarantee It's really hard to say no to that. Wait?! -- The best service is also the cheapest? Seems too good to be true, but it's the entire reason we started this company. We believe that Climate entrepreneurs are doing important work, and there should be a firm to help them find the best talent, without it breaking the bank. Reach out today for a free assessment of your hiring process. hello@erthtechtalent.com

In this Mission Matters episode, Adam Torres interviews Cara Williams, Senior Partner at Mercer, about the evolution of sustainability across finance and HR. The conversation explores ESG's growing influence, the role of AI in impact measurement, and why purpose-aligned performance is the future of long-term value creation. This interview is part of the Milken Global Conference coverage by Mission Matters. Big thanks to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Milken Institute⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for inviting us to cover the conference. Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit our website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Mission Matters episode, ⁠Adam Torres⁠ interviews ⁠Cara Williams⁠, Senior Partner at Mercer, about the evolution of sustainability across finance and HR. The conversation explores ESG's growing influence, the role of AI in impact measurement, and why purpose-aligned performance is the future of long-term value creation. This interview is part of the Milken Global Conference coverage by Mission Matters. Big thanks to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Milken Institute⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for inviting us to cover the conference. Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit our website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send me a messageIn this episode of Climate Confident, I sat down with Kanika Chandaria, Climate Lead at Agreena, to explore one of the most overlooked yet high-impact climate solutions: soil.We talked about why regenerative agriculture is gaining traction, not just as a nature-based solution, but as a scalable, economically viable climate strategy. Kanika broke down how soil has the potential to sequester 2–5 gigatonnes of CO₂ annually, making it a key lever for companies aiming to meet net zero targets.We also got into the challenges: from the financial barriers facing farmers to the complexity of MRV (measurement, reporting, and verification) for soil carbon. Kanika explained how Agreena combines satellite imagery, AI, and selective soil sampling to deliver robust data at scale, data that's now being used not just for carbon markets, but to inform sustainable loans and supply chain initiatives.We examined the growing role of the private sector in climate action, especially as policy delays continue in the EU and US. And we discussed the importance of interoperability, why regenerative farming solutions need to work across carbon markets, food systems, and financial products.If you're a business leader thinking seriously about decarbonisation, soil carbon may be the high-impact tool you've been missing.

In this episode, we sit down with Nikhil Vadhavkar, co-founder and CEO of Raptor Maps, to uncover how the company is tackling the invisible crisis in clean energy: operational inefficiency across $250B+ worth of solar assets.Nikhil explains why the solar industry's problems aren't just about building more — they're about getting the existing infrastructure to perform. From labor shortages to rising insurance costs, from underperforming fields to unscalable maintenance methods, Raptor Maps is turning traditional solar operations on its head. Their secret? A software platform built on digital twins, computer vision, and robotics that lets field techs do more of what matters.You'll hear how Raptor Maps found product-market fit by replacing the most dangerous and manual tasks on solar farms with drone- and robot-driven workflows, and how that foundation has evolved into an AI-ready platform used across tens of gigawatts of global deployments. Nikhil shares the journey from MIT and NASA to Y Combinator and utility-scale solar, reflecting on what it means to build something technically excellent, deeply customer-embedded, and truly scalable.We cover:How climate-driven damage (hail, fire) and tariffs are reshaping solar economicsWhy investors are demanding deeper visibility into solar asset performanceWhat it takes to operate robots and AI in the middle of nowhereAnd how Raptor Maps built a customer-led culture — even as it scaled---Upgrade to paid today! It's $10/month or $100/year. You probably spent that much on random Amazon stuff last week. What's stopping you from upgrading to paid? Upgrade to Paid

In this episode of Climate Positive, host Hilary Langer speaks with Aadith Moorthy, founder and CEO of Boomitra, a global soil carbon marketplace that pays farmers for adopting regenerative agriculture. Boomitra's AI-powered platform uses satellite data to measure and verify carbon sequestration, turning healthier soil into long-term income for farmers. Aadith shares how attending a farmer's funeral in India sparked the idea for Boomitra, how their marketplace is already increasing farm revenues, and when they expect to reach gigaton-scale carbon removal. A winner of the Earthshot Prize and a Time100 Next inductee, Aadith is helping redefine how we fight climate change—from the soil to the sky.Links:Boomitra websiteAadith Moorthy on LinkedInEarthshot Prize | BoomitraTime100 Next 2024Boomitra's South America Grassland Restoration Project Achieves Verra Registration Episode recorded February 19, 2025 Email your feedback to Chad, Gil, Hilary, and Guy at climatepositive@hasi.com.