POPULARITY
Categories
As 2025 comes to a close, People, Places, Planet takes stock of a year of profound change in environmental law—and looks ahead to the legal and policy questions that will shape 2026. Host Sebastian Duque Rios draws on insights from ELI convenings with leading scholars, practitioners, scientists, and policymakers to unpack how courts, agencies, and governments are redefining environmental authority and accountability.The episode covers key U.S. Supreme Court decisions and previews cases to watch in the upcoming term, explores sweeping changes to NEPA and administrative law, and examines the growing treatment of climate change as a legal rights issue in both U.S. and international courts. It also looks at how these high-level legal debates are playing out on the ground—from data centers and AI infrastructure to clean water, cooperative federalism, and the shifting balance of state and federal power. Supreme Court environmental law review and preview (1:47) NEPA after Seven County and CEQ rescission (14:57)Climate change and rights in the courts (26:17)The future of the endangerment finding (32:36)On the ground: data centers, cooperative federalism, and WOTUS (36:42)See ELI's resources for more information:Annual Supreme Court Review & Preview (2025)The Future of NEPA Review: Unpacking the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition DecisionHeld v. Montana: A 2025 UpdateUnpacking the ICJ's Recent Opinion on Climate ChangeScientific Support for the Endangerment FindingNational Environmental Impacts of Data Center ProliferationData Centers and Water UsageCelebrating Collaboration: ECOS and the Future of State-Level Environmental Policy ★ Support this podcast ★
The SPEED Act, a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reform measure, has passed the House and is now under consideration in the Senate. This legislation aims to streamline permitting processes, which could benefit livestock producers by reducing red tape and costs associated with federal permitting for range improvements and conservation work.
Before leaving town for the holidays, the House votes 221-196 to pass the SPEED Act, which would accelerate construction projects that need federal permits under the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA. How much difference could the legislation make, and does it have a shot at 60 votes in the Senate? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You Are Gonna Make My Third Eye Blue@ThirdEyeBrewing #craftbeer #beer #podcast #radioshow #brewerytakeover Co hosts : Good ol Boy Dave, Good ol Boy Mike, and Good ol Gal Julieanna SUDS episode - In this episode of Sips, Suds, & Smokes, we're thrilled to present a brewery takeover featuring the acclaimed Third Eye Brewing Company, recently crowned Brewery of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival for the second consecutive year! Join us as we sample a lineup of their standout brewsAll beer in this episode from Third Eye Brewing Company Cincinnati, OH9:40Untapped Potential- Kolsch 5% ABV SUDS-517:08Nirvana or Bust-Double Dry Hopped NEIPA with Nelson Sauvin, Citra and Columbus hops. 7% ABV SUDS-322:28Enlightenment -American Pale Wheat with Blood Oranges. 5% ABV SUDS-430:27Gettin' Twisted- German Pretzel ale brewed with German Barley, rye and wheat. 5.2% ABV SUDS-536:24Higher Purpose- milk stout 6.3% ABV SUDS-4info@sipssudsandsmokes.com X- @sipssudssmokes IG/FB/Bluesky - @sipssudsandsmokes Sips, Suds, & Smokes® is produced by One Tan Hand Productions using the power of beer, whiskey, and golf. Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeart, and nearly anywhere you can find a podcast.Check out Good ol Boy Dave on 60 Second Reviewshttps://www.instagram.com/goodoleboydave/ Enjoying that cool new Outro Music, it's from Woods & Whitehead – Back Roads Download your copy here: https://amzn.to/2XblorcThe easiest way to find this award winning podcast on your phone is ask Alexa, Siri or Google, “Play Podcast , Sips, Suds, & Smokes” Credits:TITLE: Maxwell Swing/ FlapperjackPERFORMED BY: Texas GypsiesCOMPOSED BY: Steven R Curry (BMI)PUBLISHED BY: Alliance AudioSparx (BMI)TITLE: Back RoadsPERFORMED BY: Woods & WhiteheadCOMPOSED BY: Terry WhiteheadPUBLISHED BY: Terry WhiteheadCOURTESY OF: Terry WhiteheadPost production services : Pro Podcast SolutionsAdvertising sales: Contact us directlyContent hosting services: Talk Media Network, Audioport, Earshot, Radio4All, PodBeanProducer: Good ol Gal Julieanna & Good ol Boy DaveExecutive Producer: Good ol Boy MikeBrewery Takeover, Third Eye Brewing, Cincinnati Beer, Beer Tasting, Craft Beer Reviews, Kolsch, NEPA, Wheat Ale, Pretzel Ale, Milk Stout, Beer Ratings, Craft Breweries, Beer Enthusiasts, Podcast Episode
Tell us what you think of the show! This Week in Cleantech is a weekly podcast covering the most impactful stories in clean energy and climate featuring Paul Gerke of Factor This and Tigercomm's Mike Casey.This week's episode features special guest Jael Holzman from Heatmap News, who wrote about several senators who came out against the SPEED Act, a bill that would change the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA.This week's "Cleantecher of the Week" is Ryan Johnson, the CEO of Culdesac Tempe, a rental development outside of Phoenix. He modeled a blueprint for living in a walkable place, so residents don't need to use cars. Johnson said quote, “It's one of the best things we can do for climate, health, happiness, low cost of living, and even low cost of government.” Congratulations, to Ryan!This Week in Cleantech — December 12, 2025 Federal judge throws out Trump order blocking development of wind energy – AP NewsHow a Nuclear-Fossil Fuel Alliance Is Winning the Fight for Energy Dominance — BloombergDriving Xiaomi's Electric Car: Are we Cooked? — Marques BrownleeWill the Self-Driving Cars of the Future Lower Emissions? — The New York TimesExclusive: Key Senate Democrats Oppose Permitting Bill — Heatmap NewsWant to make a suggestion for This Week in Cleantech? Nominate the stories that caught your eye each week by emailing Paul.Gerke@clarionevents.com
Gov. Josh Shapiro called on all political leaders to condemn all political violence, during a discussion on political violence Tuesday night in Washington, D.C. The event took place at the National cathedral and was moderated by Savannah Guthrie, co- anchor of NBC's Today Show. State lawmakers' meantime are digging into Gov. Josh Shapiro's use of the state plane, and the one million dollars in security upgrades at his private residence following the attempt on his life this year. A panel of Republicans is subpoenaing records from the flight charter company, state police and Shapiro's hometown. President Trump traveled to the Poconos Tuesday night, giving a speech at a Mount Pocono casino and resort. Our colleagues at WVIA have us covered with reporting from protesters lining the President's route, coverage of the President's speech, and reaction from attendees. As Pennsylvania officials continue spending millions of dollars in settlement money to fight the opioid epidemic, opportunities for the public to follow the funds and publicly weigh in increased over the past year. But significant limits exist on both transparency and public participation - to the frustration of some families and others directly affected by the crisis. Voting is now open for Pennsylvania's 2026 River of the Year. Lancaster County's Conestoga River is one of three waterways up for the recognition. WITF, along with hundreds of Public Media organizations across the country, is facing a significant annual budget gap with the loss of federal funding. That means WITF is now dependent on individual member support more than ever. But only 10% of our audience donates to WITF. If you're part of the 90% who hasn't, we're asking you to do that now. Visit www.witf.org/givenow and thank you.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Newt talks with Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-4th), Chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources, about the importance of the bipartisan legislation known as the SPEED Act, “Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act.” The SPEED Act aims to reform the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to streamline permitting processes and expedite economic development. Westerman highlights the inefficiencies of the current NEPA process, which can delay projects for years, contributing to increased costs and hindering the U.S.'s ability to compete globally. Their discussion emphasizes the need for reform to facilitate infrastructure development, energy projects, and national security initiatives, while also addressing environmental concerns. The SPEED Act proposes a more streamlined permitting process, giving states a better role and reducing bureaucratic obstacles. Westerman has been working on this policy for eight years, aiming for bipartisan support to pass the legislation. Their conversation underscores the potential economic and environmental benefits of the proposed reforms, advocating for a balance between development and environmental protection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to Episode 253 of The Popko Project Podcast, featuring a powerful conversation with Olivia Elizabeth Basar — a rising NEPA artist sharing her creative journey, musical influences, and what drives her to keep making honest, heartfelt music. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering Olivia for the first time, this episode dives into […]
I think it's safe to say that we've all struggled at one time or another carrying bags from the store. There's no doubt we can all relate to having our hands full--attempting to minimize trips back and forth to the car. My podcast guest this week has created something to not only make it easier for us to carry these heavy bags but she's made it possible to go hands-free to be safer. Enjoy this week's conversation with NEPA native Kim Meckwood who is back on the East Coast for a bit to enjoy time with her family while she continues on her entrepreneurial path to create her next product that will make carrying heavier items like top soil and hay easier for consumers.You'll learn about Kim's journey inventing the Click and Carry and how a former college professor unwittingly inspired her through his public criticism of her. Thank you to my podcast sponsors Reinvented Threads with Gabby Lynn and Healthy Lifestyle Management with Lisa Rigau for their generous support. Both women are contributing in important ways to enrich our lives. Visit ReinventedThreads.com and EatBreatheMoveLive.com to learn about their offerings. Follow Funny Wine Girl Jeannine on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with Jeannine's comedy, laughter yoga and more. I appreciate you from the bottom of my heart and the bottom of my wine glass.
Hoje conversamos com a professora e pesquisadora Laura Loguercio Cánepa! Abordamos desde questões históricas do gênero no Brasil até o True Crime pelo Mundo! Vem com a gente!
Alytuje vyks Dr. Laros Lempertienės paskaita „YIVO institutas Vilniuje – nepažinta žydų mokslo viršūnė“. Šia tema radijo stoties FM99 eteryje vyko pokalbis su Lietuvos nacionalinės bibliotekos Judaistikos centro vadove, mokslininke dr. Lara Lempertiene. Pašnekovę kalbino Liudas Ramanauskas.
The future of AI may be decided in backyards. Data Centers—the sprawling facilities designed to support the massive computing required to train and run AI models—are being built across the country. One estimate sees more than $1 trillion dollars in capital spending on data centers in the next four years. And they use electricity—a lot of it. While data centers can bring construction jobs, tax revenue, and economic development to their communities, they also bring complaints about power and water usage, noise pollution, and architectural blight.Debates are raging from town halls to the halls of Congress. Yes, politicians want the US to lead the world in AI, but elected officials, particularly local ones, are hearing from constituents concerned about data centers, including the potential to raise electric bills. The decisions being made right now in places like Northern Virginia, Umatilla, Oregon, and Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, will determine whether AI infrastructure is scaled quickly, or whether a backlash slows it down. If done right, data centers can bring world-class tech capabilities, lower electricity prices, energy abundance, and local tax revenue. Done poorly, we see working class Americans paying more for power, the electric grid struggling, and the potential for the American public to turn sour on data canters en masse.So what do people need to know about data centers to make informed decisions? What really is the impact of data centers on water and electricity? What should policymakers in Washington do, if anything, about these debates? And are there ways to balance legitimate local concerns without hamstringing a strategic imperative?Evan is joined by Asad Ramzanali, Director of Artificial Intelligence & Technology Policy at the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator. He was previously Chief of Staff at the White House Office of Science and Tech Policy under President Biden and Legislative Director to former Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-CA). You can read his recent op-ed on data centers here. Evan is also joined by Daniel King, Research Fellow at FAI where he focuses on the energy and security dimensions of artificial intelligence. Daniel completed Master's studies in Statistics & Data Science at Yale University and earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mathematics from Brown University. Check out his substack on AI and energy, Policy Gradients.
The Laurie Cadden Show from November 15, 2025 features guest Hollie Hunter Suraci, Associate Real Estate Broker with ERA One Source Realty, who shares her perspective on the proposed 50-year-mortgage plan making headlines this week. Also Laurie gives us a recap of Standing Ovation for The Cooper Family at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple. The event celebrated 65 years of Broadway in northeastern PA and Laurie and Jules weigh in on the early holiday decorating trend, and more, as the holiday season kicks into high gear in NEPA
Imagine knowing that you're one decision away from being without a home. We're in a time right now when many people are not getting the assistance they need and are experiencing food insecurity. Thankfully local businesses and organizations are stepping up to help but it's still a problem. See a list of resources for Luzerne County here.My guest this week, Holly Spece, understands what it's like to need help and also what it's like to shed the feelings of shame so you can ask for that help. Holly is working on a project to bring agencies and organizations together to provide the best care to individuals in NEPA who need to find housing, a job, food, opportunities for education and/or training so they can be the best version of themselves possible. She hopes to inspire others to unleash the warrior that lives inside them. Learn more about Holly and follow her progress with her project Susquehanna Warrior Reserve on this site.Big thanks to my podcast sponsors:Get to know Reinvented Threads by the amazing and kind Gabby Lynn. Check out Gabby's store online featuring cozy winter hats and cashmere neck warmers, and see where she'll be vending her amazing handmade items at her website ReinventedThreads.com and follow Reinvented Threads on Facebook and Instagram. Thank you to Healthy Lifestyle Management with Lisa Rigau. Lisa is a nurse, plant predominant nutritionist, lifestyle medicine professional and mindfulness based stress reduction teacher from Brown University. She is knowledgeable, caring and calming Check out the services she offers at her website EatBreatheMoveLive.com. If you would like to support independent content like this that supports women, reach out to me to learn about my affordable sponsorship packages. Email Jeannine.Luby@gmail.com. You can also show love by subscribing and sharing the podcast and by rating it five stars and/or writing a review!Follow Funny Wine Girl Jeannine on Facebook and Instagram for laughs, complaints about perimenopause and nature pics.I appreciate you from the bottom of my heart and the bottom of my wine glass.
On American Potential with host David From, Congressman Bruce Westerman — Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee and a professional forester — explains why healthy forests are the backbone of clean air, clean water, and resilient watersheds, and how decades of public land mismanagement have fueled catastrophic wildfires and lumber shortages. Westerman breaks down the Fix Our Forests Act, the push to expand markets for low-grade wood (biochar, biostimulants, energy), and why U.S. housing depends on smarter, science-based forest management instead of smoke and ash. The conversation then turns to unleashing American energy. Westerman details bipartisan permitting reform via the SPEED Act to cut NEPA delays, reduce litigation ambushes, and build what America needs — from transmission lines and data-center power to mining for critical minerals — faster and cleaner. He also previews Great American Outdoors Act “250” improvements and the unanimously passed EXPLORE Act for outdoor recreation. If you care about energy policy, AI-driven power demand, forestry, permitting, conservation, and keeping America competitive with China, this episode delivers the roadmap.
Episode 645 also features an E.W. Poetic Piece titled, "Legacy Blues." Our music this go round is provided by these wonderful artists: Thelonious Monk, Takuya Kuroda, Diane Coffee, Girl Scout, Branford Marsalis & Terence Blanchard. Commercial Free, Small Batch Radio Crafted in the West Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania... Heard All Over The World. Tell Your Friends and Neighbors.
Rock and roll roll call!
What is it that makes a state park special? It's a question I've asked my self countless times since I began exploring Pennsylvania's public lands in 2021. For some it's deep, meaningful history to indigenous cultures, to early settlers or even to industry. For others its beautiful features like waterfalls, old growth forests and scenic vistas. And for many it's the landscapes that allow them to hike, bike, paddle, birdwatch, hunt, fish and more.For me, I've found that parks I deem special share a lot of these components. I want some history. I want something beautiful to look at. And I want a park that provides me with the opportunity to explore and discover. One of those places for me is Salt Springs State Park. Located less than 10 miles from the New York border, Salt Springs State Park is special. Now, I can't guarantee YOU will find it special, but I think it's pretty damn cool.Here's a quick list of some of thing things I think are special that we'll delve further into this episode. It's got an old growth forest, three waterfalls, meadows, historic buildings, pre-colonial and early-American history, fascinatin geology, hiking trails, camping and so much more. But best of all, it's in the middle of nowhere. So your hikes won't be disturbed by road noise and it's likely you wont find a crowded park. Wouldn't that be nice for a change. Salt Springs State Park is special and it should be near the top of your list if it's not already. Yes, it's a bit of a drive depending on where you live, but the best places are always worth the extra time it takes to get there. On this episode, I speak with Lee Dillon. Lee is the manager of the Lackawanna State Park Complex which includes Salt Springs State Park. Be sure to support our 2025 sponsors:Keystone Trails AssociationPurple Lizard MapsPennsylvania Parks and Forests FoundationSisters' SunflowersSupport the showVisit our website to learn more about the podcast, to purchase merch and to find out about our incredible sponsors. Follow us on Instagram and Meta to stay connected. Hosting, production and editing: Christian AlexandersenMusic: Jon SauerGraphics: Matt Davis
Last year, an energy permitting reform bill sponsored by Senators Joe Manchin and John Barrasso passed out of committee but failed to gain full support in the US Senate. Since then, rising energy costs and infrastructure backlogs have only heightened pressure on Congress to take another run at reforming the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). As a result, momentum behind permitting reform is building again. Several legislative efforts are underway, most notably the bipartisan SPEED Act, which would change NEPA requirements in order to streamline the permitting process. It would also set limits on judicial review. So how likely is meaningful permitting reform, this time around? How would it enable timely development of energy infrastructure without jeopardizing environmental concerns? And what might make it feasible to supporters of fossil and renewable energy alike? This week, Bill Loveless speaks to Jim Connaughton about shifting motivations for permitting reform in DC, and whether policymakers can find enough common ground to push reforms forward. Jim is the CEO of JLC Strategies and the former chairman and CEO of Nautilus Data Technologies. During the George W. Bush administration, he served as chairman of the White House Council on Environmental Quality and directed the White House Office of Environmental Policy. Credits: Hosted by Jason Bordoff and Bill Loveless. Produced by Mary Catherine O'Connor, Caroline Pitman, and Kyu Lee. Engineering by Gregory Vilfranc.
Communities across the United States successfully fought and prevented destructive highway projects from being built through their neighborhoods from the 1960s to 1970s. These grassroots movements saved historic areas like New York's SoHo, Portland's southeast neighborhoods, New Orleans' French Quarter, and Toronto's Annex district from being demolished for massive expressways.• Jane Jacobs led opposition to the Lower Manhattan Expressway (LOMEX) that would have destroyed SoHo, Little Italy, and parts of Chinatown• Robert Moses' 10-lane elevated highway plan would have displaced 1,900 families and closed 804 businesses• Portland residents organized against the Mount Hood Freeway, using neighborhood maps to visualize the highway's devastating impact• New Orleans prevented the Vieux Carré Expressway that would have cut off the French Quarter from the Mississippi River• Historic preservation, environmental laws (NEPA), and civil rights activism were key legal tools in defeating these projects• Toronto residents, with Jane Jacobs' help, stopped the Spadina Expressway even after construction had begun• Successful opposition in Portland led to highway funds being redirected to build light rail instead• These movements coincided with broader social change including civil rights, environmentalism, and counterculture activism• Visual protest tactics included mock funerals, postcards showing highway impacts, and themed Mardi Gras floatsSupport the show by liking, commenting, and subscribing to our channel. Share with friends and catch us on any podcast platform—be sure to leave a rating and comment!Send us a textSupport the show
What're some must-see attractions in NEPA for fall?
In the Public Interest is excited to continue In That Case, its third annual miniseries examining notable decisions recently issued by the US Supreme Court. In the final episode of this year's series, guest host Daniel Volchok speaks with WilmerHale Partner and Co-Chair of the firm's Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Practice and its Native American Law Practice Tommy Beaudreau about Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County, Colorado. The case centers on the scope of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and the ways regulators assess and approve highways, pipelines, and other federal infrastructure projects. Together, they explore the history that led to this case, with Beaudreau providing context for NEPA's original purpose and goals when it was enacted in 1970. Volchok and Beaudreau also discuss the potential impact this decision will have on the future of permitting and the role it plays in larger bipartisan efforts to effect permitting reform.
Justin is still getting to know the area , so lets help him out with the things that make NEPA different
Not too long ago, NVIDIA was a niche tech company known for the graphics cards that powered computer gaming. Thanks to skyrocketing growth over the past few years, today, it's a $4 trillion behemoth that designs cutting-edge chips necessary for frontier AI development. It's an American company based in Santa Clara, CA. But, like so many other companies, it relies on foreign firms to manufacture its designs—primarily Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company.Intel is the only major American company that manufactures its own advanced semiconductors, or chips, but the once iconic firm is on an opposite trajectory. In the 1990s and early 2000s, Intel's microprocessors powered over 90% of PCs and the company was one of the world's most valuable. But intel missed the boat on two major tech developments—smartphones and AI—leaving the company a shell of its former glory.NVIDIA soared while Intel declined, but the two share in common a rollercoaster relationship with Washington and the Trump Administration over their ties to China. After moving to ban NVIDIA from exporting its H20 chip to China, President Trump reversed the ban in exchange for NVIDIA giving a 15% cut of the sales to the US government. Last month, Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan came under fire for his ties to and investments in Chinese companies, leading Trump to call for his immediate resignation. A few weeks later, Trump announced that the US government would take a 10% stake in Intel for about $10 billion in outstanding CHIPS Act grants, and Trump praised Tan for his affirmed commitments to US interests.The two companies are at the heart of the most significant tech policy debates in the world—from industrial policy to how to balance a desire to export American technology with the need to safeguard trade secrets and AI advantages. Evan is joined by Oren Cass, founder and chief economist of American Compass. Oren has been a staunch supporter of the CHIPS Act and industrial policies that he believes are necessary to restore high-tech American manufacturing, particularly in semiconductors. He's also been highly critical of the Administration's recent moves to allow NVIDIA to export more of its chips to China. Read his op-ed in The Washington Post on NVIDIA's H20 and his newsletter on the topic, as well as his recent op-ed in Commonplace on NVIDIA's potential antitrust problems. See his newsletter here for more on his reaction to the U.S. government's equity stake in Intel.
Share your Field Stories!Welcome back to Environmental Professionals Radio, Connecting the Environmental Professionals Community Through Conversation, with your hosts Laura Thorne and Nic Frederick! On today's episode, we talk with Fred Wagner, principal environmental advisor at Jacobs about the courts reshaping policy, NEPA uncertainty, and sticking to core environmental Values. Read his full bio below.Help us continue to create great content! If you'd like to sponsor a future episode hit the support podcast button or visit www.environmentalprofessionalsradio.com/sponsor-form Showtimes: 1:42 - Do you know your NEPA terms?8:09 - Interview with Fred Wagner Starts24:17 - Alligator Alcatraz 31:24 - What are defensible exclusions now46:29 - How do we balances changes with our valuesPlease be sure to ✔️subscribe, ⭐rate and ✍review. This podcast is produced by the National Association of Environmental Professions (NAEP). Check out all the NAEP has to offer at NAEP.org.Guest Bio:Fred Wagner focuses his practice on environmental and natural resources issues associated with major infrastructure, mining and energy project development. Fred helps clients manage and then defend in court environmental reviews performed under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or equivalent state statutes. He works with public agencies and private developers to secure permits and approvals from federal and state regulators under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). Fred is familiar with the full range of issues surrounding USDOT surface transportation programs, including grant management, procurement, suspension and debarment, and safety regulations. During his career, Fred has handled a wide variety of environmental litigation in federal trial and appellate courts across the country, from citizen suits, to government enforcement actions, to Administration Procedure Act (APA) challenges.Fred was appointed Chief Counsel of the U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) during the Obama administration. He managed all legal matters involving the $40 billion Federal-Aid Highway program, including environmental and natural resources issues for highway and multimodal transportation projects. Among other high-profile projects, he oversaw the agency's defense of the following: New York's Tappan Zee Bridge, San Francisco's Presidio Parkway, Chicago's Elgin-O'Hare Expressway, Kentucky and Indiana's Ohio River Bridges, North Carolina's Bonner Bridge, Alabama's Birmingham Northern Beltline, Wisconsin's Zoo Interchange, and Washington's State Road 520 Bridge. He represented the FHWA on government-wide Transportation Rapid Response Team, a multi-agency task force focused on improving project delivery and environmental review reforms.Fred began his career as a trial attorney in the Environment Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. He also served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Misdemeanor Trial Section of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia. Prior to joining Venable, he spent more than 20 years in private practice at a national law firm focusing on environmental and natural resources issues.Music CreditsIntro: Givin Me Eyes by Grace MesaOutro: Never Ending Support the showThanks for listening! A new episode drops every Friday. Like, share, subscribe, and/or sponsor to help support the continuation of the show. You can find us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and all your favorite podcast players.
September is a great month to enjoy the cooler temps and all that NEPA has to offer. My guest this week, Julie Esty, is talking about some of the wonderful events coming up that she's involved in that shine a light on our local history in northeast PA.When she's not riding on trains and educating students or tourists about some folks from our past , she's out in the Dunmore Cemetery bringing stories from the past to life. Julie is a treat to talk to because she has a love of history, especially here in NEPA, and because she's an all-around interesting person. Meet Julie at the Local History Fair taking place at the Viewmont Mall in Scranton on Saturday, September 20 from 11 AM to 4PM, along with other authors and historians. And be sure to check out The Dunmore Cemetery Tour featuring the Dearly Departed Players on Sunday, October 5 and October 12 at 2PM. It's free to the public. Follow The Dunmore Cemetery Tour on Facebook.Thank you to my generous podcast sponsors Reinvented Threads with Gabby Lynn and Healthy Lifestyle Management with Lisa Rigau. Both businesses offer services and products to enrich your life. Learn about the beautiful, handmade eco-friendly fashion accessories of Reinvented Threads at the website here or follow on Facebook and Instagram. Learn about the services offered by Lisa, a nurse, plant-predominant nutritionist, and lifestyle medicine professional at Healthy Lifestyle Management's website here.Reach out if you're interested in supporting this podcast with a sponsorship by messaging me at: Jeannine.Luby@gmail.com and remember that you can show support by simply sharing the podcast, ranking and reviewing it on Apple or Spotify. Follow Funny Wine Girl Jeannine on Facebook and Instagram.I appreciate you from the bottom of my heart and the bottom of my wine glass.
Moose, Mayes, & Danielle are LIVE from the fifth annual NEPA Invitational at the Country Club of Scranton and are joined by several special guests.Thank you to our Sponsors: BetParx, Mall Chevrolet, Comcast Business, Rita's Water Ice
She's made her way from Maine to NYC to NEPA and the Poconos and she's about to kick off the first-ever NEPA Comedy Fest. She's Jessica Delfino--a mother and a mother folker who performs original funny folk songs and material about her life. And she's talking with me this week about being a hardworking woman in comedy and how she, along with many amazing comedians, are building up the comedy scene in NEPA and the Poconos. Learn more about Jessica here. Subscribe to Jessica's museletter here. To learn about the upcoming comedy fest and to get tickets, visit the site here. Support local performers, please and thanks!!Thank you to my talented and generous sponsors: Reinvented Threads with Gabby Lynn and Healthy Lifestyle Management with Lisa Rigau. Reinvented Threads works to keep items out of our landfills by creating beautiful eco-friendly items like handbags, hats, scarves, dolls and more from existing material. Gabby is creative, clever and kind. Follow Reinvented Threads on Facebook and Instagram and visit Reinvented Threads website to learn more and shop.To learn about the many services offered by Lisa, a nurse, plant-predominant nutritionist, health and well being educator as a Lifestyle Medicine professional and diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and a Certified Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction teacher from Brown University, and to register for the upcoming Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course, visit this site for Healthy Lifestyle Management. If you're interested in supporting a platform for women to share their stories, expertise and experience, reach out to me at Jeannine.Luby@gmail.com to learn about affordable sponsorship packages. Follow Funny Wine Girl Jeannine on Instagram and Facebook and for a positive boost and to learn about therapeutic laughter, follow Laugh to Live on Facebook. I appreciate you from the bottom of my heart and the bottom of my wine glass.
The Laurie Cadden Show from August 30, 2025 features guest Chrissy Manuel, Director of Development and Communications at United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA, to talk about the upcoming Frolic. This event is one of UNC's largest (and most delicious!) fundraisers of the year. Laurie & Julie talk about new places and fabulous spaces we explored in Scranton this week and also La Festa Italiana & Railfest.
A new episode of the Center for Immigration Studies podcast features Director of Litigation Julie Axelrod discussing the current status of the Center's landmark National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) lawsuit, a new CIS case filed in Texas, and the recent “Alligator Alcatraz” litigation.Axelrod explains how the Trump administration is handling the remedy phase of Massachusetts Coalition for Immigration Reform v. Department of Homeland Security, where CIS successfully argued that the Biden administration violated NEPA when it dismantled border controls allowing in millions of people without doing any environmental impact analysis. NEPA, enacted in 1970, was intended to address environmental impacts of population growth – yet it has rarely been applied to immigration, despite its obvious relevance.Axelrod argues that applying NEPA consistently would protect the environment, provide transparency, and serve as an insurance policy to prevent future administrations from bypassing environmental review when expanding immigration.Highlights from the discussion with the Center's Executive Director Mark Krikorian include:CIS's Successful Lawsuit: The court found that the Biden administration had violated NEPA. The remedy phase could force DHS to conduct the environmental analysis that should have preceded both the Biden DHS's termination of the “Remain in Mexico” policy and halt in construction of the border wall, and/or could ensure that if a future administration repeats such actions, it would have to do environmental analysis, providing transparency and an opportunity for public input.Trump Administration on the Remedy: The Trump administration's immigration agenda, which largely focuses on reduction, not expansion, of immigration, would not be blocked if the administration were to embrace the idea that increases in immigration should be analyzed under NEPA prior to implementation. Such an embrace would also serve to make the Trump immigration agenda harder for a future administration to undo, as the Biden administration did to the first Trump administration's policies. Furthermore, as the Alligator Alcatraz case shows, whether the Trump administration embraces NEPA for immigration expansion or not, open-borders groups will continue challenging enforcement actions in court under NEPA.New Texas Lawsuit: A coalition of Texas plaintiffs seeks to apply NEPA to Biden-era policies, including the end of “Remain in Mexico,” expansive asylum rules, regulatory expansions to our work programs, and taxpayer-funded NGO programs.Alligator Alcatraz Case: Anti-enforcement groups are trying to use NEPA to block expansion of the Florida detention facility, highlighting a double standard – enforcement actions designed to reduce illegal immigration trigger environmental analysis, but policies that increase immigration do not (yet).Host Mark Krikorian is the Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies.GuestJulie Axelrod is the Director of Litigation at the Center for Immigration Studies.RelatedCIS Prevails in Challenge to Biden-Harris Immigration ActionsIntro MontageVoices in the opening montage:Sen. Barack Obama at a 2005 press conference.Sen. John McCain in a 2010 election ad.President Lyndon Johnson, upon signing the 1965 Immigration Act.Booker T. Washington, reading in 1908 from his 1895 Atlanta Exposition speech.Laraine Newman as a "Conehead" on SNL in 1977.Hillary Clinton in a 2003 radio interview.Cesar Chavez in a 1974 interview.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi speaking to reporters in 2019.Prof. George Borjas in a 2016 C-SPAN appearance.Sen. Jeff Sessions in 2008 comments on the Senate floor.Candidate Trump in 2015 campaign speech.Charlton Heston in "Planet of the Apes".
We're back after a short break with an urgent update on threats to U.S. public lands, major environmental policy rollbacks, and ongoing oil and gas fights in New Mexico.Main Topics Covered:USDA's plan to reorganize and consolidate Forest Service operations.The SPEED Act and its potential to roll back NEPA protections.Oil and gas accountability battles in New Mexico: abandoned wells and fracking wastewater.Sneak peek of the Ecocide pilot episode on the Boundary Waters mining threat.Subscribe to our newsletter for in-depth coverage and extra stories we don't have time for on the podcast: theoutdoorminimalist.comSubscribe to our YouTube channel (@theoutdoorminimalist) so you don't miss the Ecocide pilot episode release this SeptemberHave tips, testimonials, or insights on public land changes? Submit them through our Google Form (https://forms.gle/JwC73G8wLvU6kedc9)Resources & Links:USDA reorganization info & public comment: Email reorganization@usda.govOutdoor Alliance Action Alert: https://www.outdooralliance.org/blog/2025/8/7/the-forest-service-wants-to-hear-from-you-about-its-staffing-and-reorganization-plan NEPA Rollbacks & the SPEED Act: https://westernlaw.org/nepa-rollback-bill-speed-act-would-threaten-environment-communities-provide-legal-immunity-to-polluters/Abandoned wells in New Mexico: https://westernlaw.org/coalition-of-environmental-groups-tribal-leaders-experts-public-health-and-environmental-safety-public-funds-protection-central-to-preventing-abandoned-wells-in-nm/Fracking wastewater ban challenge: https://westernlaw.org/the-fix-is-in-clean-water-advocates-file-objection-in-big-oil-bid-to-reverse-state-ban-on-fracking-wastewater-discharge/Save the Boundary Waters update: https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org/did-twin-metals-just-get-leases-mine-watershed-boundary-waters-nope
Lissa & Justin audio
Panther Island Brewing Hazy Cat- Purple Thiolized NEPA Craft Beer Review From Untappd: "Thiol boosted juicy IPA using AEB Fermoplus Sauvignon, Centennial and Saaz mash hops and DH'd with Huell Melon, El Dorado and Motueka"7% ABV17 IBUThanks for watching!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/strikeout-beer--2992189/support.
The first weekend in August is electrifying here in the Electric City!This week I share some of my favorite memories of the events taking place, make suggestions for visitors, and share my appreciation for my hometown and region of NEPA. Below are links to events talked about in the episode. Appreciate artists from NEPA at First Friday Scranton, check out the map of where art will be, click here.Learn about the Scranton Jazz Festival here. Check out Electric City Love Con here.If you'd like to hear more about Marie and Jean-Claude's visit to Scranton with me as their tour guide, listen to the episode from 2021, here. A huge thank you to my podcast sponsor Reinvented Threads with Gabby Lynn. Her incredible kindness is matched by her amazing creativity. Gabby uses existing materials to fashion unique, handmade, eco-friendly bags, hats, scarves and more. Visit Gabby's store online at Reinvented Threads.com or check her out in the Poconos later in August. She will be at the 38th Annual Pocono State Craft Festival on August 23 & 24, and at Artisans on Ann on August 30. Follow Jeannine at Funny Wine Girl Jeannine on Instagram and Facebook.I appreciate you from the bottom of my heart and the bottom of my wine glass.
We are excited to share this “on-the-road” COBT episode featuring Tim Latimer, CEO and Co-Founder of Fervo Energy. Our team traveled to Milford, Utah, to tour Fervo's Cape Station project before connecting with Tim for an in-depth conversation. Tim earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tulsa and started his career as a drilling engineer in the Permian and Eagle Ford basins. He co-founded Fervo in 2017 after earning an MBA and an MS in Environment and Resources from Stanford University. Fervo is a developer, owner, and operator of geothermal assets. The company recently raised $206 million to advance the buildout of Project Cape, with phase one expected to deliver 100 MW of power to the grid in 2026. It was our pleasure to visit with Tim about the evolving geothermal landscape. As you'll hear, we were also joined by Kareem El-Sadi, Fervo's Drilling Engineering Manager, who brought valuable insights from the field. Huge thanks to all our new friends at Fervo for their hospitality and patience. We really had a blast. In our conversation, Tim shares the story of Fervo's founding, explains the fundamentals of geothermal, and details what makes Fervo's approach unique using deeper wells, horizontal laterals, and well stimulation. We explore the parallels between geothermal's recent progress and the shale revolution, as well as Cape Station's well specs, project economics and future cost reduction opportunities. We discuss how Fervo has dramatically improved dripping efficiency, cutting well costs from $13 million to ~$4 million by reducing the number of drill bits needed and decreasing total drilling days, the energy world's shift from largely skeptical to increasingly bipartisan and broader support, policy tailwinds, and Fervo's efforts to onshore supply chains amid steel and other tariffs. We cover geothermal versus oil and gas flow rates, design strategies for achieving high flow rates, water use efficiency, long-term production outlook, and overall “life of power plant” issues. We examine expansion plans for Cape Station, the leasing and mineral rights framework in geothermal, power plant design considerations including supply chain dynamics, permitting challenges and NEPA reviews, and project risk and learning curves from location to location. Tim shares his perspective on opportunities for geographic expansion beyond the Western U.S., cost curve and resource economics, commercial strategy and PPAs, near-term priorities for Fervo, geothermal's underrepresentation in no-emissions power conversations, the competitive landscape, whether being a pioneer is an advantage or disadvantage, and much much more. It was a fantastic discussion. Tim references a few items in today's conversation. MIT's paper entitled “The Future of Geothermal Energy” published in 2006 is linked here. Additionally, the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 is linked here. Mike Bradley kicked off the discussion by noting that bond and equity markets are focused on Wednesday's FOMC Rate Decision Meeting. Consensus expects the Fed to leave interest rates unchanged; however, if the Fed were to surprise with a rate cut, broader markets would initially surge before worry set in as to why! Turning to U.S. equities, while markets continue to post new highs, sentiment appears to have shifted toward a “sell the trade deal” mindset. This will be an important week for the Technology sector, broader equity markets, and electricity equities given that Apple, Amazon, Meta and Microsoft are all reporting results and investors are going to be listening closely to their projected AI spending levels. Mike also highlighted a major development in the transportation sector with Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern's anno
Join us as we delve into the remarkable career of Robert Quartermain, a leading figure in today's mining industry. From his early days to his pivotal roles at Dakota Gold, Pretium Resources, and Silver Standard Resources, Robert shares insights into the principles and decisions that have shaped his success. Discover how his experiences in underground mining and strategic acquisitions have informed his approach to exploration and development. This episode offers a deep dive into the world of gold mining, the evolving role of gold in technology and finance, and Robert's advice for the next generation of geologists and entrepreneurs. We then dive into the evolving landscape of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and its impact on the U.S. mining sector. Join explore the procedural changes aimed at streamlining the NEPA process, reducing redundancies, and addressing the challenges faced by the industry. Our guest, Adam Hawkins, shares insights on the implications of these changes for hard rock mining, the role of litigation, and the broader geopolitical context affecting resource development.This episode of Mining Stock Daily is brought to you by... Revival Gold is one of the largest pure gold mine developer operating in the United States. The Company is advancing the Mercur Gold Project in Utah and mine permitting preparations and ongoing exploration at the Beartrack-Arnett Gold Project located in Idaho. Revival Gold is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol “RVG” and trades on the OTCQX Market under the ticker symbol “RVLGF”. Learn more about the company at revival-dash-gold.comVizsla Silver is focused on becoming one of the world's largest single-asset silver producers through the exploration and development of the 100% owned Panuco-Copala silver-gold district in Sinaloa, Mexico. The company consolidated this historic district in 2019 and has now completed over 325,000 meters of drilling. The company has the world's largest, undeveloped high-grade silver resource. Learn more at https://vizslasilvercorp.com/Equinox has recently completed the business combination with Calibre Mining to create an Americas-focused diversified gold producer with a portfolio of mines in five countries, anchored by two high-profile, long-life Canadian gold mines, Greenstone and Valentine. Learn more about the business and its operations at equinoxgold.com Integra is a growing precious metals producer in the Great Basin of the Western United States. Integra is focused on demonstrating profitability and operational excellence at its principal operating asset, the Florida Canyon Mine, located in Nevada. In addition, Integra is committed to advancing its flagship development-stage heap leach projects: the past producing DeLamar Project located in southwestern Idaho, and the Nevada North Project located in western Nevada. Learn more about the business and their high industry standards over at integraresources.com
Early this morning, between 2 and 3 am, the Senate approved cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting including NPR and PBS as well as member stations including WITF. The Senate vote was 51-to-48. Pennsylvania's senators voted along party lines. With a yes vote, Republican David McCormick voted to rescind funding for public broadcasting as well as foreign aid. Democrat John Fetterman voted against the bill. Earlier this week, Fetterman told the Philadelphia Inquirer the cuts undermine the very values of family and education Republicans claim to champion. Fetterman cited Fred Rogers, a Pittsburgh icon, who taught generations of American children about kindness and empathy through his PBS program "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood." Here’s the next step for the legislation: The Senate's approval of the cuts tees up a final vote in the House, which approved an earlier version last month. For the proposed rescissions to kick in, the bill would need to be signed into law by midnight Friday. Here’s a closer look at the financial implications of the bill. The legislation would claw back nearly $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting which represents the full amount it’s due to receive during the next two budget years. The corporation distributes more than 70% of that money to more than 1500 locally-operated public television and radio stations including WITF based in Harrisburg but serving a 19-county area of Central Pennsylvania. Ron Hetrick, President and CEO of WITF's parent organization Pennon calls today's decision "disappointing," while encouraging those passionate about public media to contact their elected representatives today. Hetrick adds that "In these moments of uncertainty, we remain unwavering in our mission to ensure our organization continues to serve as a trusted source of information and connection for our community." Now turning to another breaking story we’re following this morning: Vice President JD Vance touted the One Big Beautiful Bill Wednesday, making a stop in northeast Pennsylvania, at a Machine Shop in West Pittston. Vance praised President Donald Trump for retooling the economy in favor of American workers. Meantime, Around 50 people protested the Trump administration's immigration policies, education and healthcare cuts during Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Luzerne County on Wednesday. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
EELP attorney Hannah Perls speaks with Professor Andrew Mergen, faculty director of Harvard's Emmett Environmental Law and Policy Clinic, about the latest updates to the National Environmental Policy Act, including new agency implementing procedures, the Supreme Court's recent opinion in Eagle County, and amendments included in the One Big Beautiful Bill recently passed by Congress. They talk about what these changes mean in practice for project developers, impacted communities, and the environment. Transcript: https://eelp.law.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/CleanLaw_EP104-Transcript.pdf Links: NEPA overview https://eelp.law.harvard.edu/nepa-overview/ NEPA Regulatory Tracker page https://eelp.law.harvard.edu/tracker/nepa-environmental-review-requirements/ NEPA after Eagle County decision https://eelp.law.harvard.edu/the-future-of-nepa-and-federal-permitting-after-eagle-county/ CEQ's template and agencies' procedures https://eelp.law.harvard.edu/decoding-agencies-new-nepa-procedures/ "Energy emergency" declaration https://eelp.law.harvard.edu/the-trump-administrations-aggressive-anti-regulatory-pro-fossil-fuel-directives/
George Salamis, CEO of Integra Resources, discusses the production guidance and reinvestment strategies for the Florida Canyon Mine. He highlights the importance of maintaining production levels, the financial commitment to optimizing operations, and the potential for extending the mine's life. Additionally, they touch on recent regulatory changes that streamline the NEPA process, which could benefit future mining projects. The discussion concludes with a look ahead at upcoming developments and the importance of ongoing communication with stakeholders.
Share your Field Stories!Welcome back to Environmental Professionals Radio, Connecting the Environmental Professionals Community Through Conversation, with your hosts Laura Thorne and Nic Frederick! On today's episode, we talk with Andrew Goldberg, ACRA's head of government relations about Architectural Policy, Historic Preservation, and ACRA. Read his full bio below.Help us continue to create great content! If you'd like to sponsor a future episode hit the support podcast button or visit www.environmentalprofessionalsradio.com/sponsor-form Showtimes: 2:04 - Science Communication Evolution 7:02 - Interview with Andrew Goldberg begins10:51 - Goldberg's multiple roles29:20 - NEPA & Section 106 Challenges37:47 - Andrew Goldberg's Field Notes StoryPlease be sure to ✔️subscribe, ⭐rate and ✍review. This podcast is produced by the National Association of Environmental Professions (NAEP). Check out all the NAEP has to offer at NAEP.org.Connect with Andrew Goldberg at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewgoldbergdc/Guest Bio:Andrew Goldberg has spent more than three decades leading winning advocacy programs. After serving as a top legislative aide to key members of Congress, he led a press and lobbying program for a British healthcare association in London. As managing director of government relations and advocacy for the American Institute of Architects, Andrew transformed its advocacy program and pushed several landmark bills to enactment. In 2018, Andrew formed Agora, a government relations consulting firm whose clients include the American Cultural Resources Association. Andrew has been quoted in Politico, Roll Call, the Hill, the Washington Post, and others.Music CreditsIntro: Givin Me Eyes by Grace MesaOutro: Never Ending Soul Groove by Mattijs Muller Support the showThanks for listening! A new episode drops every Friday. Like, share, subscribe, and/or sponsor to help support the continuation of the show. You can find us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and all your favorite podcast players.
When the market shifts in real estate, you can go from the high of your best year ever to the low of wondering if you'll ever sell a home again. You're showing up, doing the work, and checking all the boxes. But during a downturn, the quick wins of a hot market disappear, and suddenly, effort doesn't equal results. This is where most agents spiral. They panic, pause, or start changing everything. But the real danger isn't the market. It's how you respond to the silence. Because when things slow down, the most tempting (and most costly) mistake is to stop doing the very activities that used to work, just because they're not giving you immediate ROI. So, how do you push through a slump? How do you keep showing up when it feels like nothing is working? In this episode, agent Lauren Buckler shares how she went from a $10M year to a brutal 8-transaction stretch, and how she rebuilt her business without changing strategies. Your objections will always transform because that market's always changing. You have to keep up. -Lauren Buckler Things You'll Learn In This Episode The comeback equation When your business tanks, the average agent pivots. Why is it smarter to double down on the same activities? Stop using stale objection handlers Our scripts have to evolve with the market. How do we make sure we're using objection handlers that match what's actually going on? Cold calling isn't a phone game Getting over our fear of cold calls isn't about better scripts; it's about controlling our energy before we ever touch the dial. How do we do this? Don't get motivated, get bored High-performers don't win because they feel inspired. What actually drives them? Guest Bio Lauren Buckler has been a Realtor since 2020. Being of service to people has always been in her nature and is one of the reasons why she chose to become an agent. And why not for one of the most meaningful purchases of their life? Clients love her integrity, honesty, how thorough she is, and that she will go above and beyond when necessary. Lauren moved from NEPA with her husband, Adam, six years ago to make living by the beach a reality. In her spare time, she enjoys jet skiing, hiking, biking, camping and traveling. She has already been enjoying the environment and energy at the office and looks forward to taking her career to the next level. Follow Lauren on Instagram. About Your Host Brendon Payne has been selling Real Estate Since 2007. In a very short period of time, his performance has allowed him to be one of the highest-producing agents in South Carolina and in the Top 1% of agents nationwide. He has trained under the Top Real Estate Coaches in the industry and now uses his skills and expertise to lead and train his own agents at Century 21 Charleston Expert Real Estate Advisors. Brendon considers himself a lifelong student of the industry and seeks out other Top Performers, Trainers, and Coaches to continually stay at the top of his game and add value to his clients and the agents that he coaches. Check out this episode on Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
TechFreedom's Jim Dunstan and Corbin Barthold discuss the NASA administrator vacancy, the Artemis program, the NASA budget, SpaceX and Blue Origin, the moon and Mars, the FAA and NEPA, space regulatory sandboxes, and more.Links:“A Blueprint to Launch”: Regulatory Sandboxes for Outer SpaceRoadster location in spaceTech Policy Podcast 372: Spacesuits!Tech Policy Podcast 349: The State of Space ExplorationFoster The People - Lost In Space
Interview with Barry O'Shea, CEO, Highland CopperRecording date: 18th June, 2025Highland Copper Company emerges as one of the most compelling investment opportunities in the U.S. critical minerals sector, operating a fully permitted copper development project positioned to address America's growing strategic mineral shortage. Led by CEO Barry O'Shea, who brings 15 years of mining finance expertise including successful value creation at Fiore Gold, the company's Copperwood project in Michigan's Upper Peninsula represents a rare construction-ready copper mine in domestic U.S. markets.The project's economics demonstrate exceptional leverage to copper prices. At $4 per pound copper, Copperwood delivers $170 million NPV with 18% IRR, but at $5 copper, NPV jumps dramatically to $510 million—a 300% increase from just 25% higher copper prices. This sensitivity positions Highland Copper to benefit significantly from ongoing copper market tightness and the metal's critical role in electrification and defense applications.Highland Copper's competitive advantage extends beyond economics to its regulatory position. Unlike competitors facing years of permitting uncertainty, Copperwood holds all seven required Michigan state permits and operates on private land, eliminating federal NEPA process delays. This fully permitted status, combined with 22 formal government resolutions of support and a proposed $50 million state grant, creates unprecedented government backing for a private mining venture.The company's capital structure reflects institutional confidence, anchored by Orion Mine Finance's 28% equity stake, which provides both patient capital and a clear path to construction financing. With targeting a construction decision by first half 2026 and an 11-year initial mine life producing 30,000 tons of copper annually, Highland Copper addresses the urgent need for domestic copper production.As O'Shea emphasizes, "What the US needs now is projects that can be built and not ones that are sitting at first drill hole." This construction-ready status positions Highland Copper as a strategic play on America's industrial renaissance and energy security objectives, making it a standout opportunity in the critical minerals space.Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/highland-copperSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
The ubiquitous deployment of both wireless and wireline technology is critical to 5G and other next generation services. However, lengthy permitting processes, as well as burdensome NEPA and NHPA requirements, continue to slow infrastructure builds. As the Trump Administration continues to prioritize streamlining rules and regulations, as well as promoting access to reliable, affordable broadband […]
Episode SummaryThe latest episode of the “The Stream by AASHTO” podcast features Ted Boling, a partner with Perkins Coie, with over 30 years of public service – who discusses recent changes to the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, and the removal of regulations by the Council on Environmental Quality, or CEQ.Episode NotesThis podcast series is part of the AASHTO Environmental Management technical service program operated by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. It explores a wide array of environmental topics that affect state departments of transportation and the infrastructure programs they oversee.In February 2025, the CEQ announced an Interim Final Rule that removes its longstanding NEPA implementing regulations from the Code of Federal Regulations. This shift places the responsibility for NEPA compliance directly on individual federal agencies, allowing them to follow their own procedures rather than a centralized set of rules.In this podcast episode, Boling delves into how, if NEPA is revoked, it removes a “universal framework” that will prevent federal agencies working in tandem on environmental reviews.Boling also outlines the potential impact of mass layoffs within the federal government, especially among senior leadership and recent hires, and how that could slow down decision-making regarding environmental reviews for infrastructure projects.
This week, we cover a relentless wave of threats to America's public lands and environmental protections. But it's not all bad news, because we wrap up with some powerful land-back victories, state park expansions, and global actions to #BeatPlasticPollution.Key Topics This Week:1. Senate Budget Bill Public Land SalesSenator Mike Lee (R-UT) moves to reinstate a provision to sell 500,000+ acres of public land in Nevada and 11,000+ acres in Utah.Parcels affected include land near Zion National Park, desert tortoise habitat, and lands adjacent to Las Vegas.No restrictions on resale — paving the way for luxury developments, mines, and strip malls.2. What Else Is in the Budget Bill?Fast-tracks oil, gas, and mining projects by weakening environmental reviews.Opens new offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska.Increases national forest logging quotas and 20-year timber contracts.Cuts climate adaptation and restoration funding.3. Department of the Interior (DOI) Deregulatory BlitzRescinds 2024 rule protecting 13 million acres in Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve.Appoints Kevin Pendergast as BLM Alaska State Director.Rolls back 18 federal energy regulations nationwide.Green-lights new timber, oil, gas, and mineral leases across Oregon, Utah, Nevada, and Alaska.4. Supreme Court's NEPA Decision (May 29)An 8-0 ruling limits NEPA's scope so agencies no longer required to analyze cumulative and downstream environmental impacts.Case involved a proposed Utah crude oil railway; ruling sets precedent for pipelines, highways, and fossil fuel infrastructure.
Today we're delighted to welcome back Mike Sommers, President and CEO of the American Petroleum Institute (API). Mike has led the API since 2018 and previously spent two decades in senior leadership roles in the U.S. House of Representatives and the White House, including as Chief of Staff to Speaker of the House John A. Boehner and as Special Assistant to President George W. Bush on the National Economic Council. The API represents 600 members across the full spectrum of the U.S. petroleum industry, with roots dating back to World War I, when Congress and the domestic oil and gas sector joined forces to support the war effort. We first hosted Mike on COBT in September 2021 (episode linked here), and with all the changes in energy and Washington since then, we had plenty to catch up on. We were thrilled to visit with Mike to hear his latest insights. As you will hear, there is almost no energy topic Mike can't help us think through. In our discussion, we explore evolving attitudes in Washington toward natural gas, from being viewed as a waste product to a “bridge fuel” during the Obama era, and now as a “forever fuel” due to its growing importance in meeting rising energy demand. We examine the increased engagement between tech companies and the energy industry, the urgent need for a more durable, streamlined, and predictable permitting system to support the expansion of energy infrastructure, referencing the Supreme Court's recent decision that narrows NEPA's scope and increases deference to agency decisions, potentially reducing project delays. We discuss the ongoing debate and uncertainty regarding the IRA, which incentives may survive in reconciliation, and the potential impact of legislative changes on clean energy investment. Mike shares his perspective on the recent House Bill, which removed renewable tax credits, and the expectation of reconciliation in the Senate. We cover the new National Energy Dominance Council and its role in coordinating energy policy across federal agencies, the evolving balance between federal and state authority in energy regulation, and advocacy for consumer choice in vehicle technology, specifically the recent repeal of the California EV mandate. We explore Alaska's resource potential, including the opportunity to build an LNG terminal to utilize natural gas currently being reinjected, and the broader significance for U.S. energy security and exports to Asia, the strategic importance of domestic oil and gas, the role of judicial review in permitting, and much more. It was a fantastic conversation and we greatly appreciate Mike for joining. Mike Bradley kicked off the discussion by noting that while remnants of “Trumpatility” have mostly faded, with S&P 500 volatility now low, broader markets remain sensitive to Trump's policies, as highlighted this week by the doubling of aluminum and steel import tariffs. He pointed out that oil prices have surprised traders to the upside so far this week, rising more than $2/bbl despite OPEC+ signaling a July production increase of >400kbpd. Mike also discussed EOG Resource's $5.6 billion deal to acquire Encino Acquisition Partners' Utica asset, noting that the deal adds another large core oil asset play for EOG and could also prove to serve as a backdoor natural gas play, especially if the Northeast finally opens up for energy infrastructure spending. Jeff Tillery added to Mike's comments, noting that despite the day-to-day volatility in oil markets, the long-term outlook still comes down to tight supply and the need for real demand growth. On the gas side, he pointed to strong demand pull but emphasized that the key question is where prices will ultimately settle given the ample supply. Thanks to you all. We hope you enjoy today's discussion as much as we did!
About fifty years ago, multiple environmental disasters forced a reckoning with how we care for the Earth. President Richard Nixon signed numerous environmental protection bills into law in the 1970s, including what is considered to be the nation's green Magna Carta: the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Among many other moves to eliminate or weaken federal environmental regulations and laws, the Trump administration is trying to fundamentally change NEPA, a bedrock rule that requires federal agencies to analyze environmental and cultural impacts of any major development. Critics point out these changes will result in fewer protections for citizens, natural resources and communities. What other regulations are being rolled back and going unnoticed? Guests: Sam Wojcicki, Senior Director, Climate Policy, National Audubon Society Olivia N. Guarna, Climate Justice Fellow, Sabin Center for Climate Change Law Jared Huffman, U.S. Representative (D-CA 2nd District) and Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee On June 4, Climate One is hosting a special screening of the documentary “Good Grief: The 10 Steps” to be followed by a climate anxiety workshop. Join us for this intimate conversation about the importance of mental health live at The Commonwealth Club. Tickets are available through our website. Support Climate One by going ad-free! By subscribing to Climate One on Patreon, you'll receive exclusive access to all future episodes free of ads, opportunities to connect with fellow Climate One listeners, and access to the Climate One Discord. Sign up today. For show notes and related links, visit our website. Ad sales by Multitude. Contact them for ad inquiries at multitude.productions/ads Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices