How can business solve humanity’s most significant challenges? Why is business the best vehicle to solve them?  For the last 35 years, Rinaldo Brutoco has devoted himself to asking – and answering – these crucial questions. The founding president of nonprofit think (and do!) tank the World Business Academy (WBA) and founder and CEO of green hydrogen transportation firm H2 Clipper (H2C), Rinaldo is a trailblazer in both the theory and practice of sustainable business solutions. Rinaldo graduated from Santa Clara University with degrees in economics and philosophy and later received a J.D. from UCLA School of Law in 1971. His career has had many remarkable turns – pioneer in consumer law, Inc. 500 CEO, author, lecturer, and co-founder of the world’s first paid cable TV company. Behind all these turns was an unshakeable conviction that business could – must – be a force for good, driving Rinaldo to found the WBA in 1987 to explore the role of business in addressing serious moral, environmental, and social issues around the world. The think tank has since been responsible for initiatives like the Optimist Daily newsletter, Safe Energy Project, Global Citizen’s Club, and the New Business Paradigms podcast. As of 2011, Rinaldo has been practicing what he has preached with the launch of H2C, a firm pioneering a low cost, effective, end-to-end transport and distribution system for green hydrogen. Its revolutionary approach  tackles the biggest obstacle to the widespread adoption of hydrogen while also producing a scalable, carbon-free alternative to fossil fuels that’s powered by Rinaldo’s patented generative AI manufacturing technology. Hear Rinaldo talk about his unique path to clean energy visionary, the importance of teaching entrepreneurship as a noble profession, and why paid cable was a source of good for the world. Episode Highlights:00:00 Rinaldo Brutoco on the rise of pay TV00:49 Conor Gaughan introduces Rinaldo, WBA, and H2 Clipper04:38 Entrepreneurial interests, UCLA law, Nader's Raiders17:09 Businesses for good, meditation, third party perspectives 25:16 Launching paid cable, having a vision, pitching investors34:55 Modern entertainment, generative A.I, merchant banking46:53 Creating impact, shareholder motivation, finding inspiration51:50 Where to learn more and end credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Ben Bressler of Natural Habitat Adventures on Nature, Travel, and Pursuing Your PassionMore on Rinaldo Brutoco, World Business Academy, and H2 Clipper:linkedin.com/company/world-business-academy linkedin.com/company/h2clipper linkedin.com/in/rinaldo-brutoco-b052a2 optimistdaily.com Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference! Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in...

Agrovision, a global leader in superfruits, is on a mission to make the healthiest snacks the most enjoyable, by utilizing a cutting edge blend of genetic research, freshness technology, and – most importantly – perfectly-suited agricultural locations to supply more consistent, nutritious, and incredible tasting berries year-round through their Fruitist label. That “vision,” in Agrovision, comes in part from co-founder and executive chairman Steve Magami, who grew up in a health-conscious family surrounded by California’s citrus orchards. Steve graduated the University of California, Santa Barbara with a degree in biology and worked as a private equity investor at Lovell Minnick Partners, where a plan for a potential biofuel business took him on a trip to Peru that would change his trajectory forever. The biofuel didn’t end up panning out, but Steve saw firsthand how advantageous Peru’s climate and infrastructure development plans were for agriculture, and co-founded Agrovision in 2012 as a vertically integrated produce operation to seize this unique opportunity. Agrovision, now one of Peru’s top exporters, employs over 15,000 field workers in Peru alone, more than half of whom are women, and has supported local communities with meaningful investments in education, transportation and healthcare infrastructure. Since its first commercial harvest in 2015, the firm has added thousands of acres of farmland in 8 countries around the globe, and now sells its high-quality berries to consumer markets across North America, Europe, and Asia. Today, Agrovision is one of America’s fastest growing companies, officially achieving a “Unicorn” valuation earlier this year – no small feat for an ag tech company! Hear Steve talk about recognizing “perfect storms” of opportunity like the one he found in Peru, how businesses can be responsible partners in developing economies, and why redefining healthy snacking could impact the world for the better. Episode Highlights:00:00 Steve Magami on his first aha moment 00:53 Conor Gaughan introduces Steve and Agrovision05:08 California upbringing, venture capital, and clean tech12:51 Peru, myth vs reality, and the origin of Agrovision 18:10 The business model, risk management, and microclimates22:50 An outsider mentality, building trust, and transformative irrigation 28:37 Agrovision today, the superfruit industry, and raising capital38:08 Sustainability, community programs, and finding optimism 44:41 Where to learn more and find Fruitist products near you45:50 Conclusion and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Matt Ryan of Soli Organic on Indoor Organics, Carbon-free Fertilizer, and the Ag Tech RevolutionMore on Steve Magami and Agrovision:agrovisioncorp.com linkedin.com/company/agrovisioncorp linkedin.com/in/stevemagami Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a...

Agriculture is poised for a regenerative revolution, and Mad Capital wants to finance it. Led by co-founder and CEO Brandon Welch, the firm provides customized, long-term financing for farmers transitioning to regenerative practices, bridging a gap that traditional banks have been hesitant to meet and accelerating the next generation of land stewardship and ecological restoration. Prior to Mad Capital, Brandon studied Environmental Science at the University of Vermont. An avid outdoorsman, cyclist, and backcountry hiker, Brandon’s adventures, including a coast-to-coast bike ride from Massachusetts to Oregon, have taken him all over the country and instilled a deep appreciation for Americans’ connection to their land. After landing in Colorado in 2017, Brandon helped launch Mad Agriculture to provide resources and support for farmers interested in transitioning to regenerative agriculture, and later joined the organization as Director of Capital. Brandon and Mad Executive Director Philip Taylor consistently heard regenerative farmers talk about how difficult it was to secure loans from traditional agricultural lenders, so the two co-founded Mad Capital to solve that problem. Since taking over as CEO of Mad Capital in 2022, Brandon has overseen the launch of the Perennial Fund II and is focused on making long-term impact at scale, deploying over $25 million to farmers on over 79,000 acres of land across 15 states. Hear Brandon talk about developing a passion for outdoor adventures, his mission to create a regenerative revolution in agriculture, and why Mad Capital’s radical approach to financing is so impactful for farmers, the environment, and our future. Episode Highlights:00:00 Brandon Welch on the benefits of regenerative agriculture00:53 Conor Gaughan introduces Brandon and Mad Capital05:18 Gateway to the outdoors, environmental studies, and economics11:12 An impact-driven career, biking America, and traveling the country23:03 Founding Mad Capital, carbon sequestration, and financing farmers28:39 The regenerative revolution, the average process, and scaling strategically35:45 Mad’s approach as a lender, raising capital, and structural innovation 45:01 Transforming food systems, benefiting the environment, and finding optimism 52:02 Where to learn more about Mad Capital and connect with Brandon52:54 Conclusion and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Ron Hovsepian of Indigo Ag on Farming, Sustainability, and TechnologyMore on Brandon Welch and Mad Capital:madcapital.com linkedin.com/company/mad-capital-pbc linkedin.com/in/brandonwelchmad Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference! Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Dr. Bryan Staley knows a thing or two about waste. In fact, the president and CEO of the Environmental Research and Education Foundation (EREF) is one of the world’s leading experts on sustainable waste management and landfill emissions, and he’s on a lifelong mission to help scientists, corporations, and individuals alike better understand the impact of what we throw away. For many of us, waste is one of the most immediate climate-adjacent issues, and one of the few that we can significantly influence as individuals. Installing solar panels or buying an EV may not be possible for everyone, but all of us have to take out the trash, and little contributions like knowing what can and can’t be recycled or thinking more carefully about what goes in our trash can add up to a big difference. And when individuals, companies, or even entire industries run into questions and concerns about how to best manage their waste, EREF is working hard to provide the answers.The non-profit sits at the intersection of science, business, and scholarship, advancing the circular economy and sustainable resource management through unbiased scientific research and education. Having begun as an EREF scholar himself, for the past 13 years Dr. Bryan Staley has led the foundation as it shapes our understanding of the science behind crucial issues like PFAs (aka forever chemicals), landfill methane capture, and even AI-powered recycling robots to help better manage waste and build a more sustainable world. Hear Bryan share how growing up on a farm taught him the importance of long-term planning, the complexities of how waste breaks down, and why EREF’s independent science is a critical tool for anyone committed to understanding and reducing their environmental impact. Episode Highlights:00:00 Bryan Staley on measuring landfill emissions00:49 Conor Gaughan introduces Bryan and EREF05:53 Farming roots, patient planning, and academic trajectory11:06 Waste management, EREF, and eye-opening research programs18:04 Landfill emissions, turning methane into energy, and microbiology24:58 The origin of EREF, expanding the mission, and achieving circulatory 30:04 Core principles, balancing interests, and the science of waste disposal 38:41 Food waste, composting, and the challenge of circular textiles44:07 Innovations to watch and best practices for individual waste management51:37 Finding motivation, defeating defeatism, and remaining optimistic 55:21 Where to learn more56:13 End credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Matt Rogers of Mill Industries on Food Waste, Impactful Product Design, and Innovation.More on Dr. Bryan Staley and EREF:erefdn.orglinkedin.com/in/bryan-staley-b79b6738linkedin.com/company/environmental-research-and-education-foundationAs mentioned in the episode, here is Bryan’s thesis, “Environmental and Spatial Factors Affecting Microbial Ecology and Metabolic Activity During the Initiation of Methanogenesis in Solid Waste.” Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and <a href="http://threads.net/@ckgone" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Data is one of the most critical, and underused, tools for combating climate change – the more information we have about our impact, the better decisions we can make towards managing it. Lauren Dunford, co-founder of revolutionary startup Guidewheel, is on a mission to place that tool in the hands of manufacturers, offering a unique, data-driven system for monitoring factory operations, reducing energy costs, and improving efficiency.CEO Lauren launched the startup in 2018 with co-founder and current CTO Weston McBride, leading Guidewheel’s development of its core product, the FactoryOps platform, a system they describe as “Fitbit for Factories.” With funding from major ESG players like Breakthrough Energy Ventures and the Decarbonization Partners fund, and brand name customers like Coca-Cola FEMSA and Igloo, Guidewheel’s cutting-edge approach to sustainable manufacturing operations is turning heads across the industry. Lauren received a degree in Sustainability in Global Environment and Health at Stanford, where she also co-founded the Stanford Green Fund and ran the Students for a Sustainable Stanford program. After completing a Fulbright scholarship studying supply chain in India, Lauren worked her way up to chief of staff at the B-Corp Revolution Foods, where she saw firsthand just how impactful data could be for operational efficiency and sustainability, developing the idea for what would soon become Guidewheel.Hear Lauren discuss her passion for studying environmental impact, why better data can help industries cut costs and bolster sustainability, and how the practical approach of picking low-hanging fruit could make a significant impact in the long run. Episode Highlights:00:00 Lauren Dunford on adding sustainability into existing workflows00:52 Conor Gaughan introduces Lauren and Guidewheel04:28 Bay Area background, impact driven entrepreneurship, and Stanford 13:12 Fulbright Scholarship, Revolution Foods, and supply chain logistics 18:06 The lightbulb moment, business school, and launching Guidewheel26:00 The potential market, manufacturing inefficiencies, and hidden economies34:46 Adoption from big brands, pitching to investors, and implementing AI44:27 Aligning profit and purpose, the future of data, and defeating defeatism50:49 Exciting climate innovations and leaving a legacy53:30 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Anne Coghlan of Scope3 on the Philosophy of Math, Decarbonized Media, and the Future of Digital AdsMore on Lauren Dunford and Guidewheel:guidewheel.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/lauren-dunford-6887ab7&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/guidewheel Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

In the more than a century since humans first took to the skies with powered flight, still only about 20% of the world’s population has actually flown on an airplane. But that demand is on the rise, and air travel’s CO2 emissions are set to triple by 2050. So Benjamin Stabler and Heart Aerospace have a groundbreaking solution: decarbonize and democratize flight for all. Ben, who joined Heart as CTO earlier this year, has been leading technical work on the ES-30, an innovative, battery-electric hybrid regional aircraft. Heart Aerospace is building a system of decarbonized, short-haul aircrafts that are cheaper to operate and more energy-efficient than traditional air travel. Founded in 2019, the startup has raised over $140 million to date developing and scaling its revolutionary technology, which is not only more sustainable, but, given its significant reduction in direct operating costs per trip, potentially more profitable too, allowing for the development and revitalization of regional air travel networks that help create a more connected world. Prior to leading technical development for Heart’s newly established North American operations, Ben received an M.S. in electrical engineering from Stanford University, led software and hardware teams for the SpaceX Crew Dragon program, and co-founded Parallel Systems, an automated, battery-electric freight rail vehicle startup. Hear Ben talk about his lifelong love for aviation, how the ES-30 actually works, and why electrified, short-distance flights could change the future of aviation as we know it. Episode Highlights:00:00 Benjamin Stabler on decarbonizing short distance flights&nbsp;00:49 Conor Gaughan introduces Ben and Heart Aerospace05:28 Passion for airplanes, Stanford engineering, and SpaceX16:07 Origin of Heart Aerospace, joining as CTO, and electric aviation26:39 Hybrid electric regional aircraft, efficiency, and the U.S. markets30:17 Decarbonizing flight and democratizing air travel38:11 Rising aviation demand, the long-term horizon, and exciting climate tech45:43 Remaining optimistic and where to learn more49:48 End credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Forrest North and Jason Marks of TELO Trucks on EVs, Mini Pickups, and Autonomous TechMore on Ben Stabler and Heart Aerospace:linkedin.com/in/ben-stabler&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/heart-aerospace&nbsp;heartaerospace.com Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Marine biologist, policy expert, writer, and teacher Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson is in love with climate solutions, and her new book, What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Futures, offers a refreshing, inspiring look at what our best possible climate future could look like through contributions and conversations with leading voices in art, poetry, economics and science.Ayana studied environmental science and public policy at Harvard University, where she also forged a lifelong friendship with host Conor Gaughan. She later received a Ph.D. in marine biology from Scripps Institution of Oceanography before co-founding Urban Ocean Lab, a non-profit think tank for the future of coastal cities that she still leads today. Ayana, the Roux Distinguished Scholar at Bowdoin College, has co-edited the bestselling climate anthology All We Can Save, co-founded The All We Can Save Project, and even co-created and co-hosted the How to Save a Planet podcast. More recently, she has co-authored a roadmap for integrating the ocean into climate-related policy called the Blue New Deal, developed U.S. federal ocean policy at the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and served on the board of directors for both Patagonia and GreenWave. Honestly, listing all of her climate-focused initiatives, policies, and accomplishments would take an entire podcast itself. Hear Ayana talk about falling in love with the ocean, the secret importance of being good at attending cocktail parties, and how she’s merging science, policy, culture, and social justice to envision our best possible climate future. Episode Highlights:00:00 Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson on visions of climate futures. 00:53 Conor Gaughan introduces Ayana03:57 Early interests, Harvard University, and passion for the ocean 14:32 Designing a fishing device, Caribbean conservation, and How To Save a Planet24:16 Founding Urban Ocean Lab and the core ideas of What If We Get It Right?34:21 Problems and possibilities, reimagining infrastructure, and actionable climate policy 45:24 Climate tech unicorns, looking for local solutions, and being an optimistic realist 51:47 Conclusion and where to learn more52:52 End credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Allison Wolff of Vibrant Planet on Beneficial Fire, Sustainable Software, and Nature-Based Climate SolutionsMore on Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, What If We Get It Right?, and Urban Ocean Lab:ayanaelizabeth.com&nbsp;getitright.earth&nbsp;urbanoceanlab.org&nbsp;allwecansave.earth Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Knowing whether or not to invest in a startup isn’t easy – it’s a skill that makes VCs like Zal Bilimoria extremely valuable. And Zal, the co-founder and solo GP of seed-stage VC firm Refactor Capital, is leveraging his knowledge to build a portfolio of human and planetary health-focused startups merging profits, sustainability, and technology. Zal honed his skills and eye for the market working for tech industry giants like Microsoft and Google through pivotal moments in their history, and even created a new role for himself at Netflix, pioneering their dedicated mobile platform, before turning his hand to investing at a16z. It was there that he recognized his passion for health, biotech, and other impact-oriented industries, and in 2016, Zal struck out on his own to launch Refactor Capital. The firm has since invested in over 100 companies – four of which have gone on to reach unicorn status – and recently finished raising its fourth $50M fund.Hear Zal share key insights from his time at tech and VC behemoths, the importance of believing in founders over ideas, and which startups and technologies could literally change the world for the better. Episode Highlights:00:00 Zal Bilimoria on super responsiveness00:44 Conor Gaughan introduces Zal and Refactor Capital07:03 Early passion for computers, UPenn, and Microsoft 11:36 Google, head of mobile at Netflix, and product management18:05 Biotech and health, angel investing, and shifting investment strategy21:49 Launching Refactor Capital, being a solo GP, and hard tech 28:47 Getting deals done, communication, and managing portfolios 36:20 Aligning profit and impact, exciting tech, and sci-fi vs science reality 42:53 Climate tech and human health, urgency, and Checkerspot 47:42 Aether Biomachines, founder dinners, and entrepreneurship52:15 Leaving a legacy and defeating defeatism 56:01 Conclusion and end credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Pavle Jeremic of Aether Biomachines on Rearranging Atoms, Scaling Deep Tech, and Defeating Scarcity More on Refactor Capital and Zal Bilimoria:refactor.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/refactor-capital&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/zalzally Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Soli Organic grows approximately 120,000,000 units of fresh herbs and greens every year, making it the number one grower of fresh, organic, culinary herbs in the U.S. That’s an impressive agriculture story on its own, but Soli has an even more amazing twist – they grow it all indoors! Led by CEO Matt Ryan, former head of brand management at Disney and chief marketing officer at Starbucks, the company is taking the indoor agriculture sector by storm (or rather, soil) with its commercial-grade organic growing systems and sustainable soil-based technology. Founded over 30 years ago as Shenandoah Growers, the Virginia-based company has grown under Matt’s leadership to serve over 20,000 retail locations across the country while developing an integrated platform of farms, production, and logistics facilities. As the only controlled-environment producer to use soil-based technology, Soli is still growing rapidly, even launching a 140,000-square-foot soil-based vertical farm in Texas earlier this year. Hear Matt Ryan share his business wisdom from game-changers like Disney and Starbucks, the revolutionary potential of precision fertilizers for indoor, soil-based growing, and how Soli is working to make flavorful, nutritious, and affordable organic produce available to all.Episode Highlights:00:00 Matt Ryan on indoor organic technology 00:46 Conor Gaughan introduces Matt and Soli Organic05:30 Harvard studies, history, and passion for business09:47 Working at Disney and marketing at Starbucks13:57 Joining Soli’s board, becoming CEO, and its origin 17:30 The elevator pitch, soil tech, and precision organic fertilizer 24:10 Defining organic, sustainability in farming, and climate tech29:57 Raising capital, critical storytelling, and the triple bottom line36:03 Community engagement and leaving a legacy38:20 Where to learn more39:23 Conclusion and end credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Nicolas Pinkowski of Nitricity on Lightning-Powered Fertilizer and the Decarbonized Future Of FoodMore on Soli Organic and Matt Ryan:soliorganic.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/soliorganic&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/mattryanceoConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

60 billion board feet of wood products are used in the U.S. every year, a majority produced by fresh logging and shipped from across the globe, while simultaneously, millions of tons of local wood waste ends up in landfills off-gassing carbon as it rots. But that inefficiency could rapidly change thanks to Cambium and its CEO and co-founder, Ben Christensen, who are revolutionizing lumber supply chains with their Carbon Smart Wood™ and Traece operating system. Cambium reclaims fallen or removed trees that would typically end up in landfills and turns them into a locally sourced, carbon negative material that could potentially cut global carbon emissions by 4%. The firm is also using new technology to better track the trees during the supply chain process, increasing transparency, traceability, and sustainability. Cambium is also just getting started, partnering with mega brands like Microsoft and Patagonia in recent years and continuing to develop their clean technology and expand their markets. Ben Christensen is an accomplished ultra marathon runner, so it’s probably fitting that the company he runs is built with long-haul sustainability and scalability in mind. Surrounded by forests and the outdoors as a child, Ben went to Yale School of Forestry &amp; Environmental Studies to pursue his passion, and it was there that the idea for Cambium first took root. Not long after, Ben and his co-founder, Theo Hooker, a childhood friend and fellow ultra marathon runner, were racing to transform waste wood into valuable building materials. Hear Ben share how his love for the outdoors turned into a revolutionary sustainable materials startup, why wood waste is such a massive problem (and also a potential market), and what carbon smart wood means for the future of lumber, supply chains, and our planet. Episode Highlights00:00 Ben Christensen on wood waste&nbsp;00:51 Conor Gaughan introduces Ben and Cambium06:34 Early passion for wood, a childhood co-founder, and ultra running16:37 Yale’s Forestry Program, natural climate solutions, and carbon sinks22:42 Launching Cambium, wood’s waste issue, and carbon smart materials29:09 The potential market, building with scalability in mind, and evaluating impact&nbsp;35:33 Brand partnerships, remaining unique, and aligning purpose with profits44:37 Innovations to watch, the blue carbon space, and staying optimistic&nbsp;49:20 Leaving a legacy and where to learn more51:57 End creditsIf you liked this, listen next to our episode with Jasmine Crowe-Houston of Goodr on Being A Voice For Hunger And Why Food Waste Is All About Logistics.More on Cambium and Ben Christensen:cambiumcarbon.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/cambium-carbon&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/btchr Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone.Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really does make a difference! Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

C-Zero and Zach Jones, its co-founder and CEO, are using innovative thermocatalysis technology to convert natural gas into zero-emission hydrogen, offering the tantalizing potential to decarbonize major industries while scaling the fuel of the future. Hydrogen is one of the most promising sources of clean energy in existence, and a key component in alternative fuels capable of decarbonizing hard-to-electrify industries like heavy shipping. But there’s a catch: the current processes used to extract hydrogen from hydrocarbons like natural gas create a rather unsustainable byproduct – carbon dioxide. Hard-tech firm C-Zero has the answer: a revolutionary method to convert natural gas into hydrogen and a solid carbon byproduct instead, which could have industry, or even world-changing, implications. And Zach, a biomedical engineer, multi-time founder, and venture capital investor with a lifelong passion for hydrogen, is perfectly positioned to take this technology to the next level, having spent his entire career in and around the innovation economy. Hear Zach share how his interest in hydrogen led him to the idea that would become C-Zero, why “turquoise hydrogen” is the secret to Hydrogen 3.0, and why thermocatalysis could decarbonize the future of energy. Episode Highlights:00:00 Zach Jones on turquoise hydrogen 00:54 Conor Gaughan introduces Zach and C-Zero06:05 Ranch life, interest in chemistry, and Duke University10:39 Entrepreneurial bug, business school, and investing career 18:17 The hydrogen thesis, origin of C-Zero, and the TAM25:42 Turquoise hydrogen, transport, and public private partnerships34:32 Pitching investors, global markets, and the long-term horizon44:19 Fighting climate change, future scale, and exciting innovations50:16 Staying positive and leaving a legacy52:29 Where to learn more53:09 End credits If you liked this, listen next to our episode with Dr. Seonghoon Woo of Amogy on Materials Science, Decarbonized Transport, and Alternative FuelsMore on C-Zero and Zach Jones:czero.energy&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/c-zero&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/zachjones06 Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference! Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

A favorite soda can be a huge part of people’s identity – roughly half of the American population drinks at least one soda on a daily basis – which is why OLIPOP is completely reimagining the soda industry with its healthier, prebiotic, low sugar alternative that tastes as good – if not better – than its traditional counterparts.&nbsp;Ben Goodwin has spent his entire career building the beverage industry and business skills needed to conjure great tasting flavors from great-for-you ingredients. Ben is not only OLIPOP’s co-founder, CEO, and formulator, but also a huge reason why the innovative B Corp Certified startup’s bright-colored cans are already in stores across the country.&nbsp;At just 20 years old, he helped ferment (launch) a kombucha company, later founded and worked as lead formulator for kefir-based probiotic soda brand Obi, and then launched OLIPOP in 2017 with co-founder David Lester.&nbsp;Hear Ben share OLIPOP’s “15-year overnight success story,” the science behind the benefits of prebiotics vs probiotics, and his lifelong quest to disrupt the soda behemoths with a sustainable, healthy alternative – which IS still a soda!&nbsp;Episode Highlights00:00 Ben Goodwin on creating functional soda&nbsp;00:54 Conor Gaughan introduces Ben and OLIPOP04:42 Rough upbringing, passion for health, and dropping out of college11:23 Founder mythologies, key habits, and first beverage formulation&nbsp;17:57 Learning to tinker, microbiology, and building a first beverage brand25:51 What is OLIPOP, the 3rd wave of soda, and making healthy taste good32:13 First 4 flavors, scaling to stores nationwide, and the science of microbiomes44:40 B Corp Certification, doing good and doing well, and defining positive impact52:52 Where to learn more (and find the closest store with OLIPOPs near you!53:41 End credits&nbsp;If you liked this, listen next to our episode with Joey Zwillinger of AllbirdsMore on OLIPOP PBC and Ben Goodwin:drinkolipop.comdrinkolipop.com/pages/store-locator&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/olipop-pbclinkedin.com/in/ben-goodwin-646a9376&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected]. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

The world currently removes less than .0001% of the carbon required to meet the IPCC’s 2050 goal – so there’s A LOT of work to be done – which is what makes Graphyte’s ready-to-go solution all the more valuable.Barclay Rogers, a former environmental lawyer, mechanical engineer, and multi-time founder, is bringing his unique set of experiences and leadership skills to making scalable, affordable CO2 removal an immediate reality with his new startup, Graphyte.&nbsp;Rather than rely on energy-intensive and still-developing technology like Direct Air Capture, Barclay and his team realized that they could use nature’s own hyper-efficient carbon capture process – photosynthesis – to leverage natural resources in their revolutionary Carbon Casting process, a first-of-its-kind technique that traps carbon in easy to store bricks forged from the biomass waste generated by farms, logging camps, and paper mills.&nbsp;With their world-leading carbon removal operations already underway at their Pine Bluff, Arkansas facility, Graphyte is able to offer durable carbon removal that's scalable, affordable, and, maybe most importantly, ready right now.&nbsp;Hear Barclay Rogers talk about Graphyte’s origin story, the importance of scalability for climate solutions, and why his native Arkansas is the perfect home for biomass-based carbon removal.Episode Highlights00:00 Barclay Rogers on carbon removal in the heartland00:32 Conor Gaughan introduces Barclay Rogers and Graphyte04:37 Arkansas roots, natural resources, and mechanical engineering09:36 Environmental law, government, and pivot to entrepreneurship&nbsp;19:20 Startup career, the carbon industry, and the potential of biomass&nbsp;25:25 The origin of Graphtye, durable carbon removal, and scalability33:43 Innovation curves, public policy factors, and the value of carbon40:24 Breakthrough Ventures, climate change, and growing a community&nbsp;46:11 Leaving a legacy and finding motivation47:43 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Dr. Vince Romanin of Gradient on Heat Pumps, Zero-Carbon Infrastructure, and the Triple Bottom LineMore on Graphyte and Barclay Rogers:graphyte.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/graphytecarbon&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/barclayrogers&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected]&nbsp;If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Tom Neyhart founded PosiGen in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina to help the families and communities most impacted by the disaster rebuild their homes, save money, and boost energy resilience through solar power. He not only succeeded, but created an entirely new market by providing affordable solar and energy efficiency to low and middle income families.&nbsp;Tom, who moved from CEO to Executive Chairman of the Board last year, pioneered a new era of solar development years ahead of other firms, positioning B Corp Certified PosiGen as a key leader in the industry. An inspirational leader, successful businessman, and serial entrepreneur, he held leadership roles in construction and retail before starting PosiGen in 2011. Tom grew the innovative company as CEO over the next twelve years, expanding from Louisiana to other states, skyrocketing its revenue, and receiving numerous recognitions, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Blue Ribbon Award and Department of Defense’s Patriot Award.&nbsp;Hear Tom Neyhart talk about how a desire to help others led him to revolutionize solar power as we know it, what makes PosiGen’s unique model so affordable, and why prioritizing impact benefits people, the planet, and profits.&nbsp;Episode Highlights00:00 Tom Neyhart on rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina00:48 Conor Gaughan introduces Tom and PosiGen305:25 Louisiana roots, serial entrepreneurship, and teamwork&nbsp;14:44 Hurricane Katrina, helping others, and the origin of PosiGen23:19 Selling solar savings, PosiGen’s unique model, and building trust29:50 Pitching investors, B Corp status, and maximizing impact&nbsp;39:59 The future of renewable services, public policy, and scaling solar46:38 What’s next for PosiGen, exciting innovations, and leaving a legacy50:19 Where to learn more and end credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Michael Chanin of Cherry Street Energy on Scaling Solar, Utilities, and Market CompetitionMore on PosiGen and Tom Neyhart:posigen.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/posigen&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/thomasneyhart&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected]&nbsp;If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Goodr has a simple but powerful mission: feed more and waste less. The sustainable waste management firm’s founder and CEO, Jasmine Crowe-Houston, believes that hunger in America is not a scarcity issue– it’s a problem of logistics. Which is actually good news, because that’s an issue technology can solve!&nbsp;By leveraging detailed inventory management, predictive analytics and advanced supply chain logistics, Goodr is helping businesses reduce waste, cut carbon emissions and harness tax credits, all while supporting sustainable hunger solutions across the nation.&nbsp;Jasmine is an award-winning business leader, TED speaker, and author, who began her entrepreneurship journey spotlighting black celebrity philanthropy, nonprofits, and other charitable causes on BlackCelebrityGiving.com. After moving to Atlanta in 2013, she began hosting free pop up restaurants every Sunday out of her own pocket, offering soul food meals to people experiencing homelessness. When a video of Jasmine at one of these events went viral in 2016, she was inspired to learn more about food donations and soon discovered the shocking scale of America’s food waste problem.&nbsp;Realizing that a truly sustainable hunger solution couldn’t rely on donations alone, Jasmine launched Goodr in 2017 to offer businesses a win-win way to save money and build food security in their communities, and she has since grown her local startup into a B Corp Certified company serving a national network.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hear Jasmine talk about turning her Sunday passion into a thriving&nbsp;company, why Goodr takes a holistic approach to waste management, and how technology can help create a hunger-free future.Episode Highlights00:00 Jasmine Crowe-Houston on sustainable solutions to hunger00:52 Conor Gaughan introduces Jasmine and Goodr04:15 Early life, the importance of storytelling, and giving a Ted Talk08:48 Entrepreneurship, blackcelebritygiving.com, and sports for good&nbsp;15:45 Feeding the hungry in Atlanta, going viral, and launching Goodr&nbsp;&nbsp;20:39 The logistics of hunger, win-win solutions to food waste, and growth30:47 Covid, pivoting to hunger relief, and scaling a national network38:09 Impact report, the Goodr Foundation, and grocery store program43:40 Finding inspiration&nbsp;45:10 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Jamila Norman of Patchwork City Farms on Urban Farming, Food Advocacy, and Good FoodMore on Goodr and Jasmine Crowe-Houston:goodr.colinkedin.com/company/goodrco&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/jasminecrowe&nbsp;instagram.com/goodrcoConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected]&nbsp;If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

With climate change causing unprecedented extreme weather, fluctuating temperatures, and rising sea levels, only one thing is certain: the future isn’t going to look like the past. And yet, all of our risk analysis models are based on past data from historical patterns that no longer hold true. How can businesses make intelligent decisions on building for that future while protecting themselves from tomorrow’s risks? That’s the question that motivated Rich Sorkin to found Jupiter Intelligence, a climate risk analytics firm with a mission to help organizations build resilience and mitigate the effects of the changing climate.&nbsp;As co-founder, CEO, and chairman of Jupiter, Rich has combined his wealth of entrepreneurial experience and expertise in emerging technology to successfully scale the company since its launch in 2018, leveraging cutting-edge science, real-time data, and advanced modeling to achieve next-level climate risk insights and analytics.&nbsp;Rich earned an economics degree from Yale before attending Stanford’s Graduate Business School in 1986.&nbsp; Whether researching under a Nobel Laureate, cutting his teeth at Apple, or leading game-changing technology to market at firms like Creative Labs, Zip2, and Kaggle, Rich is ever at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship.Hear Rich share why a change in perspective led him to launch Jupiter Intelligence, what the current assumptions about climate risk are missing, and how the startup is leveraging generative AI and real science to enhance risk analysis for the future.Episode Highlights00:00 Rich Sorkin on the impact of climate change&nbsp;00:49 Conor Gaughan introduces Rich and Jupiter Intelligence06:30 Early interests and work for a future Nobel Prize winner at Yale10:55 Emerging tech, mapping trends, and career in Silicon Valley&nbsp;17:41 Entrepreneurial lessons, Zeus, and the origin of Jupiter Intel22:50 What Jupiter solves, climate infrastructure, and risk management31:08 Misconceptions, driving change with data, and generative AI40:46 Aligning profit with purpose, innovations to watch, and leaving a legacy49:24 Where to learn more and conclusion50:06 End credits&nbsp;If you liked this episode, listen next to Max Evans of ClimateAi on Dorm Room Entrepreneurship and AI-Based Climate SolutionsMore on Jupiter and Rich Sorkin:jupiterintel.comlinkedin.com/company/jupiterintellinkedin.com/in/richsorkin&nbsp;&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected]&nbsp;If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Alfred Johnson returns to the pod to give us the update on tax credit transferability and clean energy markets, just over a year after launching Crux Climate. As co-founder and CEO of Crux, Alfred has the startup’s revolutionary management software poised to capitalize on a multi-billion (if not trillion) dollar opportunity in clean energy tax credits.&nbsp;After graduating Stanford in 2008, Alfred worked for the U.S. Treasury Department, BlackRock, and Clara Lending before co-founding his first software company, Mobilize, in 2016 with Allen Kramer. That startup was acquired in 2020, but it wouldn't be the last venture for Alfred and Allen.&nbsp;In 2023, the two launched Crux Climate, a software startup developing online solutions to allow organizations to buy and sell tax credits for clean energy. Since its launch, clean energy tax credits have skyrocketed, with the Inflation Reduction Act and other government regulations incentivizing clean energy.&nbsp;Hear Alfred talk about what’s changed in this monumental first year, the massive implications of transferability for the private and public sectors, and why Crux is uniquely positioned to define the clean energy tax credit market as we know it.&nbsp;Episode Highlights00:00 Alfred Johnson on energy’s $3 trillion market00:52 Conor Gaughan introduces Alfred and Crux Climate01:46 Alfred’s work in software, finance, and government leading to Crux05:01 Attempting to summit Mount Marcus Baker, AK’s 3rd highest peak07:13 What Crux Climate solves, transferability, and the tax credit market14:36 Marketplace growth, predicting scale, and providing business value&nbsp;25:10 Domestic energy’s evolution, private vs public sectors, and competition32:25 The future of clean energy, surprising takeaways, and what’s next for Crux40:09 Optimism, exciting industry innovations, and advice for a younger self46:07 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Peter Godart of Found Energy on Aluminum Fuel, NASA, and Engineering Impact at ScaleMore on Crux and Alfred Johnson:cruxclimate.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/cruxclimate&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/alfredjohnson01&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected]&nbsp;If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

85% of used clothing ends up in landfills, but textile recycling and rewards platform Trashie is out to save our castaway garments from becoming mountains of waste. Launched only a few months ago, Trashie is taking the fashion industry by storm with its instantly recognizable Take Back Bag and viral closet cleanup videos, and the mind behind this magic is Trashie founder and CEO, Kristy Caylor.&nbsp;Kristy earned a BS in Industrial Engineering and her MBA from USC’s Marshall School of Business before entering the fashion industry, where she worked for iconic brands like Banana Republic, Gap, and Band of Outsiders. She co-founded her own fashion brand, Maiyet, in 2010, and eight years later, co-founded For Days, the original closed-loop clothing company.&nbsp;As CEO of For Days, Kristy oversees strategy, marketing, technology, product design, and growth (just to name a few), successfully growing the brand globally while earning various awards for its mission-driven work. But Kristy recognized that more could be done to reduce the amount of used clothing that went to waste, so she launched Trashie.Trashie sells its Take Back Bags to customers, who fill them up with unwanted clothing, accessories, and shoes, and mail them back to the brand in exchange for TrashieCash, which customers can use to purchase real world items and rewards, thanks to Trashie’s impressive partnership network.&nbsp;Hear Kristy share how she employs a systems engineering approach to business, what she learned working at top fashion brands versus building her own, and why Trashie’s approach to upcycling is a win-win for everyone.&nbsp;Episode Highlights00:00 Kristy Caylor on the textile waste problem&nbsp;00:42 Conor Gaughan introduces Kristy and Trashie03:48 Undergrad STEM, first startup, and entrepreneurship07:51 Business school, the fashion industry, and professional evolution&nbsp;16:28 Co-founding For Days, its business model, and clothing waste26:20 Trashie’s origin, the Take Back Bag, and incentivizing circularity36:12 Sustainability in fashion, industry innovations, and changing behavior42:28 What’s next for Trashie and finding optimism46:25 Where to learn more and end credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Catherine Roggero-Lovisi of Modern MeadowMore on Trashie and Kristy Caylor:trashie.io&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/trashie&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/kristycaylor&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Dr. BJ Johnson knows that if you want to make the biggest climate impact in the least amount of time, you start by improving upon an existing technology. And he’s doing exactly that as the co-founder and CEO of ClearFlame, a startup modifying diesel engines to run on decarbonized liquid fuels.&nbsp;Before co-launching ClearFlame, BJ studied mechanical engineering and energy systems at Stanford University, earning three (3!) degrees: undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral. He was also a world-class athlete, competing for the US National Swim Team at the World Championships in 2013 and 2014, the same time he was working on his Ph.D, which would ultimately lead him to the idea that would become ClearFlame.&nbsp;That idea might be simple in its approach, but it could make a game-changing impact for both the planet and business alike. By modifying existing diesel engines, ClearFlame’s technology can cut carbon emissions in half for heavy-duty transportation fleets, without requiring charging infrastructure or engine replacements. With many clean fuels already cheaper than diesel, it can simultaneously provide major bottom line savings too.Hear BJ share how he balanced world-class athletics and doctoral work, the critical importance of ‘bridge technologies’ to making an immediate impact, and why ClearFlame’s accelerated path towards cheaper, sustainable diesel engines is poised to make them the Tesla of heavy duty transportation.Episode Highlights00:00 BJ Johnson on ClearFlame as the Tesla of heavy duty00:48 Conor Gaughan introduces BJ and ClearFlame4:04 Studying energy at Stanford, Silicon Valley, and athletics15:28 The idea for ClearFlame, combustion tech, and liquid fuels&nbsp;23:28 Carbon negative solutions, the first sale, and scaling growth30:20 Total addressable market, tech unicorns, and doing good and well38:10 Diversifying entrepreneurship, exciting innovations, and finding optimism42:47 Wrap up and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Dr. Seonghoon Woo of Amogy on Materials Science, Decarbonized Transport, and Alternative Fuels&nbsp;Watch this short video to see how ClearFlame’s technology works: youtube.com/watch?v=WDvGDFqFtHo&nbsp;More on ClearFlame and BJ Johnson:clearflame.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/clearflameenglinkedin.com/in/bj-johnson-6b9213120Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Father’s Day is this Sunday, June 16, and we’re celebrating in our own, special way… today’s episode features Mike Gaughan: missile launch officer, successful businessman, sports coach, and, most importantly, Conor’s dad!&nbsp;Hear the stories that Conor grew up on, including Mike’s time from paperboy to the Air Force Academy and beyond, the three phone phone calls you should make every day, and what it takes to be a true leader in business, and in life. Episode Highlights00:00 Mike Gaughan on why teamwork matters00:50 Conor Gaughan introduces his dad02:09 Childhood aspirations, athletics, and military background12:38 Axioms for life, working as a paperboy, and farming20:45 Air Force Academy, business lessons, and memorable stories27:38 Civilian life, the bookmobile, and climbing the corporate ladder38:29 Building connection, solving problems, and finding optimism43:35 Leaving a legacy and final words of wisdom45:55 End credits If you liked this episode, listen next to our episode with Greg Putnam of Little Belt Cattle Co.Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Internet ads – you probably see hundreds, maybe thousands a day without thinking about them. But it turns out the process for serving those ads involves a highly complex digital supply chain that generates 7.2 million tons of carbon emissions annually. That’s why ad-tech veteran Anne Coghlan is on a mission to decarbonize media and advertising with Scope3.&nbsp;A lifelong lover of logic and problem-solving, Anne earned her Master’s at University College London in the Philosophy of Mathematics, later joining digital advertising company AppNexus in 2015. There she met future Scope3 co-founder Brian O’Kelley and helped to develop many of the technologies that underpin digital ad delivery today.&nbsp;When Anne left the ad industry to join supply chain tech company Waybridge, she began to notice that a lack of consideration for sustainability and energy consumption existed across both industries.&nbsp;So, in 2021, she reunited with O’Kelley and other AppNexus alumni to found Scope3, a public benefit corporation aiming to decarbonize advertising and media by better measuring the carbon emitted from digital display and video ads. In 2023, Anne made AdAge’s 40 under 40 list and secured the #2 most influential person in performance media on PMW’s Power 100 List, but the COO of Scope3 is just getting started.&nbsp;Hear Anne Coghlan share how her love for math ultimately led to co-founding a startup, why online ads only scratch the surface of Scope3’s potential use cases, and what the future holds for decarbonized digital media.Episode Highlights00:00 Anne Coghlan on decarbonizing digital supply chains&nbsp;00:53 Conor Gaughan introduces Anne Coghlan and Scope305:08 The beauty of math, interest in music, and academic pursuits&nbsp;16:10 Studies to consulting, joining AppNexus, and Waybridge&nbsp;21:27 Launching Scope3, how it works, and the media industry’s footprint34:14 Problem solving with math, maximizing impact, and open sourcing tech45:01 What’s next, remaining optimistic, and the future of sustainable ads49:39 Where to learn more51:32 End creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Allison Wolff of Vibrant Planet on Beneficial Fire, Sustainable Software, and Nature-Based Climate SolutionsMore on Scope3 and Anne Coghlan:scope3.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/scope3data linkedin.com/in/annecoghlan&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Just popping into the feed for a quick hello from Consensus in Conversation host, Conor Gaughan, to update you on the coming weeks.We’ve been hard at work with some great shows planned for this summer, including a few special episodes that may look and sound a little different than our regular programming. We think you’ll really enjoy them.&nbsp;So, no episode for today, but we’ll be back in June with some great new conversations. See you next week!&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you’re enjoying the show please leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Just over one year ago, the IRS published its final rules and guidance on the transferability of clean energy tax credits. Not only did transferability solve a major flaw in the Inflation Reduction Act’s plan to support clean energy infrastructure development, but, as many founders correctly foresaw, it was about to create an entirely new financial market.&nbsp;This week, we’re re-releasing our conversation with one of those visionary founders: Alfred Johnson, CEO and Co-Founder of Crux Climate, after a great live conversation we had with Alfred at American Clean Power Association’s 2024 CLEANPOWER expo, which we plan to bring to the pod later this year. Crux is a software startup revolutionizing clean energy tax credit management, and Alfred is well-suited to break down clean energy tax incentives, share founders' lessons, and talk about the rapidly growing clean energy market, which is expected to receive $3 trillion in investments over the next decade.A Stanford grad, Alfred Johnson worked for the U.S. Treasury Department and BlackRock before launching his first software company with co-founder Allen Kramer. That company was acquired in 2020, leaving Alfred and Allen ready for their next adventure. And, in 2023, they launched Crux Climate to develop online solutions for organizations to buy and sell clean energy tax credits, helping ensure that capital goes to the impactful startups that need it to scale, and that credits go to those that can actually use them.&nbsp;Hear Alfred Johnson talk about the founding idea for Crux, how to find an ideal co-founder, and why he thinks tax credit transferability is one of the most influential government policy choices ever made.Episode Highlights00:00 Conor introduces ACP CLEANPOWER 2024, Alfred, and Crux03:04 D.C. upbringing, Stanford, and the intersection of private and public sectors12:27 The startup bug and launching Crux Climate18:03 Crux’s core business, finding buyers and sellers, and building scale&nbsp;26:16 The tax credit marketplace, a new asset class, and the near-term future32:02 ESG, aligning purpose with profits, and creating sustainable impact&nbsp;38:51 Advice for young entrepreneurs, leaving a legacy, and finding motivation45:57 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, stay tuned for next week’s live follow-up with Alfred, and in the meantime, listen next to Jonathan Goldberg of Carbon DirectMore on Alfred Johnson and Crux Climate:cruxclimate.comlinkedin.com/company/cruxclimate&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/alfredjohnson01Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

HVAC is one of the most important quality of life utilities that we never think about– at least, until it stops working. It’s also energy inefficient and expensive, responsible for almost 20% of global GHG emissions, with decades-old infrastructure way behind the design innovation curve.&nbsp;But Dr. Vince Romanin has a solution: reimagine HVAC as we know it by combining personal heating and cooling in one, easy-to-install electrified heat pump that reduces emissions by 95% – the Gradient system.&nbsp;After earning his M.S. and Ph.D. in mechanical engineering and heat transfer from Berkeley, Vince worked as a development engineer at otherlab. It was there that he recognized the world-changing potential of innovative HVAC to decarbonize infrastructure while improving lives, and in 2021 he co-founded Gradient with the goal of building a better air source heat pump.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hear why CEO Vince Romanin took to engineering at such a young age, what it takes to launch a clean tech startup, and how Gradient’s technology could change the world.Episode Highlights00:00 Dr. Vince Romanin on making HVAC exciting and cutting emissions00:54 Conor Gaughan introduces Vince Romanin and Gradient04:51 Early influences, model rockets, and engineering at Dayton08:59 GE internship, thermodynamics at Berkeley, and climate change15:22 Joining otherlab and recognizing the potential in HVAC19:05 Launching Gradient and the two problems it solves25:48 Fundraising, product prototyping, and a unique user experience30:44 Why use heat pumps, decarbonizing infrastructure, and the TAM38:41 Workforce development, sustainability, and creating impact&nbsp;44:11 Interesting climate breakthroughs to watch&nbsp;48:58 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Matt Rogers of Mill Industries on Food Waste, Impactful Product Design, and Innovation OR ​​Manik Suri of GlacierGrid on Transformative Tech, Automating Energy Use, and Cold Chain 2.0More on Gradient and Vince:gradientcomfort.comlinkedin.com/company/gradient-comfort/&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/vromaninConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Pavle Jeremic wants to end resource scarcity by literally rearranging atoms. Inspired to build a better, more abundant future after witnessing violent conflict in his parents’ native Yugoslavia, Pavle launched Aether Biomachines in 2017 at just 21 years old. Since then, he’s successfully led the protein engineering startup to the cutting edge of nanotechnology, working to solve our planet’s resource scarcity problem.&nbsp;Today, Pavle and Aether are combining protein synthesis, machine learning, and nanoscale engineering to rearrange atomic structures, enabling everything from impact-free resource extraction to self-healing materials.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hear why at such a young age, Pavle became obsessed with building a future of abundance, what it takes to scale a true deep tech startup, and how Aether Biomachines is turning science fiction into reality.Episode Highlights00:00 Pavle on using machine learning models to rearrange atoms00:38 Conor Gaughan introduces Pavle Jeremic and Aether Biomachines04:23 Protein engineering, growing up around scarcity, and interest in science07:36 Synthetic biology, UC Santa Cruz, and genetic engineering projects&nbsp;16:16 Origin of Aether Biomachines, its long-term view, and its product categories26:10 Storytelling in science, what industry Aether sees itself in, and defining “machine”33:12 Deep tech, scarcity vs abundance, core pillars for scaling impact41:22 Current problems, future solutions, and balancing the two46:37 Exciting climate innovations to watch&nbsp;52:04 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Peter Godart of Found Energy on Aluminum Fuel, NASA, and Engineering Impact at ScaleMore on Aether Biomachines and Pavle:aetherbio.comlinkedin.com/company/aetherbio&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/pavlejeremicConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Food waste is a $25 billion problem for American supermarkets, but Josh Domingues has an app for that.&nbsp;Josh is the founder and executive chairman of Flashfood, a simple but elegant application that directly connects consumers with local grocery stores to buy food nearing expiration at a huge discount. This approach is a win-win-win for all parties: grocers get paid for food they would throw out, customers get a massive discount, and less food waste ends up in pollutive landfills.Josh spent his early career in finance and management, but a complaint from his sister, a chef, about how much food is thrown away after events set him on a new path to turn trash into treasure.Hear how Josh turned a simple idea into a game-changing startup, why the grocery industry is moving towards sustainable innovation, and what’s next on Flashfood’s plate.&nbsp;Episode Highlights 00:00 Josh on the moment he realized Flashfood would work00:52 Conor Gaughan introduces Josh Domingues and Flashfood05:09 Growing up in Toronto, hockey, and entrepreneurial influences12:02 Career in finance, management consulting, and path to founding15:38 How a catering event led to the launch of Flashfood23:05 Entering the marketplace, building a product, and pitching the idea31:12 How FlashFood works today for consumers and businesses37:48 Breaking into the industry and US vs Canadian grocers41:57 Prioritizing sustainability, food security, and positive impact&nbsp;&nbsp;48:46 Finding optimism&nbsp;51:15 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Nick Whitman of Divert on Food Waste, Renewable Energy, and Impact TechnologyMore on Flashfood and Josh:flashfood.comlinkedin.com/company/flashfoodinclinkedin.com/in/joshdominguesConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Two founders of 1953 Tequila, Lindsey Davis Stover and Shivam Mallick Shah, join Conor for a special in-person conversation to share how their ultra-premium, additive-free tequila is prioritizing sustainability, elevating women&nbsp;in the spirits industry, and also offering an awesome drinking experience.Lindsey, Shivam, and the rest of the 1953 founding team met through Congressional campaigns for Virginia’s 10th district, and the idea for a women-led, luxury tequila company followed soon after. True to their mission, the founders secured a deal to source from an agave farmer who was passing his farm on to his daughters. Named after the year women in Mexico gained the right to vote, 1953 Tequila has shaken up the male-dominated spirits industry from day one, and it was recently named the Best Additive-Free Tequila by Men’s Journal.As you’ll hear, Shivam Mallick Shah and Lindsey Davis Stover have big dreams for tequila and beyond.Episode Highlights:00:00 Lindsey on pitching her crazy idea for a tequila company00:48 Conor Gaughan introduces Lindsey, Shivam, and 1953 Tequila&nbsp;02:00 Bureaucratic backgrounds and running for Congress13:00 The idea to launch, women in spirits, and meeting agave farmers20:32 Branding, the origin of the name, and making it additive free28:10 Building in a new industry, getting to market, and finding distribution33:09 Challenges as a women-led brand in a male-dominated industry&nbsp;36:37 Social impact opportunity, sustainability, and doing good&nbsp;41:35 Building for the future, remaining optimistic, and sources of inspiration48:28 Where to learn more… or find a bottle!&nbsp;50:00 Outro and end creditsThe book Lindsey mentioned: What Do You Do With An Idea? by Kobi YamadaShivam meant to mention she is reading: Big Bets: How Large-Scale Change Really Happens by her husband, Rajiv Shah.If you liked this episode, listen next to John Little of Smooth Ambler Spirits Co. on Craft Distilling, Sustainable Growth, and Disrupting the Bourbon IndustryMore on 1953 Tequila, Lindsey, and Shivam:1953tequila.com and instagram.com/1953tequilalinkedin.com/in/lindsey-davis-stover-1b65707linkedin.com/in/shivam-mallick-shah-54a953135Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] Conor mentioned in the show, we're taking a break for his birthday and we'll be back the first week of May with more great conversations!If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Manik Suri is implementing smart technology into cooling, ushering in the era of Cold Chain 2.0. Before founding GlacierGrid in 2020, Manik finished top of his class at Harvard, went to Cambridge for a masters in international relations, returned to Harvard for a law degree, co-founded the Governance Lab, with stops at storied institutions like DE Shaw and the White House Economic Council along the way.&nbsp;Cooling technology has lagged behind other industries in the clean energy transition, but GlacierGrid’s all-in-one management platform is using smart technology to bridge that gap and build a more sustainable, advanced, and&nbsp;efficient cold chain.Hear Manik share how he’s pursuing dual passions for entrepreneurship and positive impact, why cooling technology is vital for the modern world, and how smart technology can decarbonize an entire industry.&nbsp;Episode Highlights:00:00 Manik Suri on the planet’s cooling crisis00:57 Conor Gaughan introduces Manik and GlacierGrid07:00 Academic upbringing, Harvard, and international internships16:03 Law school, The White House, and path to entrepreneurship23:25 GlacierGrid’s rebrand, the hidden economy, and the cold chain33:34 Pitching investors, aligning profits with impact, and future scale&nbsp;40:09 Exciting innovations, long-term thinking, and staying positive48:07 Where to learn more&nbsp;49:03 Conclusion and end credits&nbsp;If you liked this episode, listen next to Nick Whitman of Divert on Food Waste, Renewable Energy, and Impact TechnologyMore on GlacierGrid and Manik Suri:glaciergrid.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/glaciergridlinkedin.com/in/maniksuriConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Stanford rocket scientist and fintech entrepreneur Karthik Balakrishnan is integrating high-tech infrastructure modeling with video game interface design to create a software platform that allows businesses to virtually test their plans for maximum sustainability and bottom-line impact.&nbsp;In 2018, Karthik co-founded software startup ACTUAL based on a unique premise: what if you could plug your business idea into a science-backed simulation that operates like a computer game? The software platform allows users to choose a sustainability strategy, map out its various permutations, and compare those simulation results, enabling businesses to explore the full range of possibilities for their capital and implement the most impactful without real-world risks.Hear ACTUAL president and co-founder Karthik Balakrishnan talk about how SimCity influenced their approach, combining user interface with data visualization, and why gamifying decision making is so important for the future.&nbsp;Episode Highlights:00:00 Karthik Balakrishnan on making specialist knowledge more accessible00:53 Conor Gaughan introduces Karthik and ACTUAL05:45 Growing up on the coasts and aerospace engineering at Stanford&nbsp;10:45 Rocket science, entrepreneurial spirit, and the generalist mindset17:43 Fintech, founding Coin, and risk-taking versus reliability&nbsp;27:24 Angel investing, the Pioneer Fund, and an impact-based framework&nbsp;32:55 The origin of ACTUAL, the elevator pitch, and de-risking innovation&nbsp;42:49 Real world variables and misconceptions about sustainable software&nbsp;&nbsp;49:15 Exciting innovations, defeating defeatism, and staying positive53:40 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Peter Godart of Found Energy on Aluminum Fuel, NASA, and Engineering Impact at ScaleMore on ACTUAL and Karthik Balakrishnan:actualhq.comlinkedin.com/company/actualhqlinkedin.com/in/kbalakriConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

This week, we’re proud to share a special episode of the CLIMB by VSC podcast with Jay Kapoor, featuring his interview with Sunil Nagaraj. CLIMB is a weekly podcast where Jay and VSC Ventures co-founder Vijay Chattha speak with leading investors, founders, and industry experts about lessons and perspectives on company-building in the world of climate tech and climate adaptation.&nbsp;From CLIMB by VSC:We're honored to host Sunil Nagaraj, a visionary investor in the intersection of deep tech and climate innovation, and founding partner of Ubiquity Ventures. Nagaraj's unique perspective on "software beyond the screen" and his commitment to supporting early-stage, tech-driven startups are at the forefront of our discussion. We dive into the essence of nurturing technologies with disciplined financing and the strategic scaling of startups to mitigate climate change.Our conversation spans a variety of topics, from the complexities of venture capital in the climate tech space to the pivotal role of startups in driving substantial change. Sunil shares insights on the importance of focusing on high-impact areas and the potential pitfalls in the startup ecosystem, particularly emphasizing the significance of avoiding the "moonshot culture" that often hinders the progress of deep tech ventures.About VSC Ventures:VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC.Links discussed in this episode:Moonshot Culture is Strangling Deeptech article: https://www.ubqt.vc/p/moonshot-culture-is-strangling-deeptech Ubiquity University: https://university.ubiquity.vc/Episode Highlights00:00 Conor Gaughan introduces CLIMB by VSC02:42 Trailer&nbsp;03:17 Introduction04:01 What defines a startup as truly 'Nerdy and Early'?"07:11 What’s the first question investors make?11:30 How do investors navigate unfamiliar markets?16:17 The pros and cons of a singular investment strategy21:49 How do 'crazy' ideas become genius investments26:45 The 'Don't Repeat Yourself' mantra in Venture Capital29:35 The cost of keeping secrets in Venture Capital31:57 How trust accelerates organizational velocity39:30 Should investors be more involved in early stage startups?42:47 How can startups become better companies47:19 The dangers of Moonshot Culture in Deep Tech52:39 What's the one thing your startup should focus on?55:07 Can technology truly turn the tide against climate change?We’ll be back next week with a brand new episode of Consensus in Conversation. In the meantime, make sure to follow the CLIMB by VSC podcast for more great perspectives on company-building.&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Frank Heidinger believes that lots of small improvements over time can create a huge impact, and he’s using that concept to electrify the recreational boating industry, responsible for 1% of global carbon emissions.&nbsp;Frank is the founder and CEO of HALEVAI, a cutting-edge company making high-performance, fully electric recreational boats that will reduce the industry’s environmental footprint, shorten supply chains, and bring more manufacturing jobs to the U.S. A hospitality industry veteran and lifelong ocean advocate, Frank shares how&nbsp; prioritizing customer experience, committing to incremental improvement, and embracing a “We Will” vision of the future can truly make all the difference.&nbsp;Hear Frank talk about the idea that led him to launch HALEVAI, combining materials sciences, design, and engineering to build boats, and the exciting future for (water-based) electric vehicles. Episode Highlights00:00 Frank Heidinger on energy, hospitality, and the natural environment00:39 Conor Gaughan introduces Frank and HALEVAI04:10 Brooklyn beginnings, creating experiences, and sustainable hospitality in the Maldives13:58 The idea for electric boats, initial obstacles, and developing a design20:30 The recreational boating market and marginal improvements29:10 Pitching to investors, the spirit of innovation, and creating impact36:30 Sustainability in luxury, open sourcing, and prioritizing customers41:22 Frank’s vision for a sustainable future and where to learn more45:43 Wrap up and end credits If you liked this episode, listen next to Ben Bressler of Natural Habitat Adventures on Nature, Travel, and Pursuing Your Passion&nbsp;More on HALEVAI and Frank Heidinger:halevai.cominstagram.com/halevaipower/&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/halevai&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/frank-heidinger-halevai&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Jay Kapoor believes there is massive opportunity in climate automation and that identifying hidden economies is key to building a more sustainable future. Jay is co-founder and general partner at VSC Ventures, a storytelling-focused VC firm investing in early stage climate tech and automation startups.&nbsp;In part two of our conversation with Jay, we dive into the nitty gritty: Jay shares how hidden economies inform his investing thesis, why automation is key to our climate tech transition, how early startups are already tapping into this opportunity, and what a sustainable future could really look like.&nbsp;If you missed last week’s episode, listen first to Jay Kapoor of VSC Ventures on Finding Purpose, Startup Storytelling, and the Founder with 1000 Faces.&nbsp;Episode Highlights: 00:00 Jay Kapoor on investing in climate automation00:58 Conor Gaughan introduces Jay Kapoor and VSC Ventures02:57 Looking for hidden economies as an investor10:22 Using analogies to boost storytelling&nbsp;15:03 The huge potential in climate automation31:34 Exciting innovations in the tech industry&nbsp;37:47 VSC’s portfolio companies46:51 Envisioning a sustainable future with nuclear energy&nbsp;50:04 Where to learn more51:35 Conclusion and end credits&nbsp;More on VSC Ventures and Jay Kapoor:vscventures.com/portfolio linkedin.com/company/vsc-ventures&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/jaykapoor/twitter.com/JayKapoorNYCJay’s podcast: CLIMB by VSCConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Jay Kapoor is combining venture capital and storytelling to help visionary founders achieve maximum impact.&nbsp;Jay noticed that while it was easier than ever to start a business, that made it harder than ever for individual companies to get noticed. How could founders get the world to see their unique vision for a better future? The answer was simple, but not easy – tell a compelling story. So, he and co-founder Vijay Chattha created VSC Ventures, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage climate tech and automation startups, using the power of storytelling to help them stand out.&nbsp;Hear Jay talk about the importance of curiosity and empathy, what the NFL’s international games can teach us about growing a brand, and why every good business starts with a really good story.&nbsp;As you’ll hear, we had so much fun talking with Jay, we convinced him to do a second episode, so stick around for part two next week.&nbsp;Episode Highlights:00:00 Jay Kapoor on the importance of asking “Why now?” in storytelling&nbsp;00:52 Conor Gaughan introduces Jay Kapoor and VSC Ventures06:37 Multicultural background and perspective on sustainability23:23 Finance, NFL Europe, and marketing funnels31:31 The idea for VSC Ventures and crafting a good pitch44:53 Optimism, return on investment, and defining impact54:03 What’s next – part two of our conversation&nbsp;56:38 End credits&nbsp;More on VSC Ventures and Jay Kapoor:vscventures.com/portfolio&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/vsc-ventures/&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/jaykapoor/ OR twitter.com/JayKapoorNYC&nbsp;Jay’s podcast: CLIMB by VSCConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Here’s the link to Joseph Campbell’s book, which both Conor and Jay mention: The Hero With A Thousand Faces.If you liked this episode, listen next to Matt Rogers of Mill Industries on Food Waste, Impactful Product Design, and InnovationAlso check out these episodes featuring folks Jay and Conor mentioned in their conversation:Rick Fox of Partanna on Sustainable Construction and Creating Winning TeamsRoger McClendon of Green Sports Alliance on Green Sports Day and Sustainability In SportsHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

The data gap in women’s healthcare is a big problem. Four out of every five women in America with female-specific medical conditions will go undiagnosed and 70% of medical residency training programs exclude fertility from their core curriculums.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tech wizard and veteran entrepreneur Juan Carlos (JC) Riveiro, and business and marketing expert Liya Sharif co-founded Cercle in 2021 to address this very gap. The tech startup uses AI machine learning to generate smarter, more equitable women’s health data, giving doctors the information they need to make decisions specific to each of their patients.&nbsp;Hear how CEO JC, and board member Liya are using their technological and entrepreneurial expertise to give doctors direct access to better data, improve fertility outcomes with individualized treatment plans, and revolutionize the future of healthcare for all.&nbsp;&nbsp;Episode Highlights:00:00 Liya on the exclusion of women in medical studies00:42 Conor Gaughan introduces Liya Sharif and JC Riveiro of Cercle04:30 Backgrounds, college degrees, and careers leading to Cercle16:12 JC and Liya's idea for Cercle27:12 Medicine 3.0, systemic inequity in healthcare, and women's health32:49 Finding investors, caring for customers, and the future of health40:06 Where to learn more41:42 End creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Allison Wolff of Vibrant Planet on Beneficial Fire, Sustainable Software, and Nature-Based Climate SolutionsMore on Cercle, Liya Sharif, and JC Riveiro:cercle.ailinkedin.com/company/cercleailinkedin.com/in/lshariflinkedin.com/in/jriveiroHere’s the link to the McKinsey study on the women’s medical data gap referenced by both Conor and Liya during the episode: “Closing the data gaps in women’s health.”Here’s the link to Hannah Ritchie’s book, which Conor mentions in his intro: Not the End of the World. Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Caron Proschan, founder and CEO of Simply, believes that simple ideas can change the world, and she’s out to prove it with… chewing gum.One fateful day Caron reached for a piece of gum and realized it was made of plastic. When she looked for natural options, there were none. So she took her Harvard Business degree and launched Simply, a food startup focused on healthy natural gum and snacks. From cooking up gum in her kitchen and selling it to her local Whole Foods, to challenging billion-dollar brands, Caron is a small business - big industry success story.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hear Caron share Simply’s unusual beginnings, the secret power of tree sap, and why simple doesn’t mean easy, on this episode of Consensus in Conversation.Episode Highlights00:00 Caron realizes there is plastic in traditional chewing gum00:44 Conor Gaughan introduces Caron Proschan of Simply03:52 Background, Harvard Business School, and early entrepreneurship08:14 Simply’s start, bootstrapping a brand, and finding a market18:52 Scaling up, raising capital slowly, and sustainability in natural food27:10 Building trust, social impact, and pursuing your passion34:38&nbsp;What’s next and where to learn more&nbsp;36:57 End creditsHear the episode Conor mentioned, Andrew Gibbs-Dabney of LIVSN on Recovery, Sustainable Design, and Intentional OuterwearWatch the Made In America episode Conor references in the introduction, Can Regenerative Farming Revive the Earth and Feed the World on YouTube.com/consensusdigitalmediaMore on Simply Gum and Caron Proschan:simplygum.comlinkedin.com/company/simplygumlinkedin.com/in/caronproschanConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

50% of the global food supply relies on nitrogen fertilizer, which emits tons of greenhouse gasses. But startup Nitricity is making electrified climate-smart fertilizer by literally capturing lightning in reactors. Co-founder and CEO Nicolas Pinkowski joins the podcast to share the startup’s remarkable origin story from a make-shift lab in a Stanford backyard, to a full-fledged company revolutionizing agriculture and the future of our food supply.Hear how Nico went from engineer to entrepreneur, testing ideas on lemon trees and destroying a few toasters in the process, on Consensus in Conversation streaming now wherever you listen to podcasts.&nbsp;Episode Highlights00:00 Nicolas Pinkowski destroys a toaster in the name of science00:51 Conor Gaughan introduces Nico Pinkowski and Nitricity&nbsp;03:49 Growing up, Stanford engineering, and Silicon Valley13:00 Nitricity’s origin, capturing lightning to decarbonize fertilizer26:26 Pitching and scaling decarbonized nitrogen fertilizer35:03 Working with farmers, potential impact, and future growth&nbsp;44:06 What’s next and where to learn more45:33 End creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Matt Rogers of Mill Industries on Food Waste, Impactful Product Design, and InnovationMore on Nitricity and Nicolas Pinkowski:nitricity.colinkedin.com/company/nitricity&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/nicolaspinkowski&nbsp;https://ifdc.org/ (the International Fertilizer Development Center)&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Allison Wolff co-founded Vibrant Planet with one goal in mind: to positively disrupt land management. An ESG trailblazer, Allison has decades of experience crafting positive impact strategies for huge disruptors like eBay, Google, and Facebook. Now, as CEO of Vibrant Planet, she’s combining that expertise with the power of machine learning to revolutionize land stewardship.&nbsp;Hear how Allison and her team at Vibrant Planet are restoring ecosystems with a balance of beneficial fire, sustainable software, and indigenous wisdom too.&nbsp;Episode Highlights00:00 - 00:50 Allison Wollf on land stewardship with beneficial fire00:51 - 03:49 Conor Caughan introduces Allison Wolff and Vibrant Planet03:50 - 11:26 Background, business and sociology degrees, work at Netflix11:27 - 24:59 Impact-based global platforms at eBay, Google, and Facebook25:00 - 36:54 Vibrant Planet’s origin, beneficial fire, and nature-based climate solutions&nbsp;36:55 - 42:55 Using data to scale impact, sustainable policy, and Public Benefit Corporations42:56 - 52:40 Staying optimistic, women-led leadership, and combining ancient techniques with AI52:41 - 54:45 Where to learn more and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Tim Sheehy of Bridger Aerospace on Aerial Firefighting, the Military Mindset, and EntrepreneurshipMore on Allison Wolff and Vibrant Planet:linkedin.com/in/allisonclairwolff/&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/vibrant-planet/&nbsp;vibrantplanet.net/&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed the show, please leave a review – your feedback makes a difference.&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Lyten first created 3D Graphene by accident in 2015, but, thanks to its world-changing potential, it now has them poised to revolutionize the material science industry.Keith Norman, Lyten’s Chief Sustainability Officer, joins the podcast to share his journey across both sides of the energy industry and explain why graphene’s properties are so groundbreaking for EVs, battery technology, and even high-grade sensors.&nbsp;Episode Highlights00:00 - 00:57 Keith Norman on solving clean energy challenges in the real world&nbsp;&nbsp;00:58 - 03:11 Conor Gaughan introduces Keith Norman and Lyten Inc.&nbsp;03:12 - 07:17 Background, early influences, and college engineering07:18 - 17:05 ExxonMobil, working in Africa, and pivoting to a new career17:06 - 24:18 Amazon Web Services, supply vs demand, and clean tech24:19 - 33:37 Airbnb encounter leads to Lyten, the elevator pitch, and graphene33:38 - 38:29 Why 3D Graphene is revolutionary for battery and EV tech38:30 - 47:20 Building for the long-term, sustainability, and ESG 2.0&nbsp;47:21 - 49:49 Leaving a legacy and where to learn more49:50 - 52:04 Conclusion and end creditsIf you liked this episode, listen next to Forrest North and Jason Marks of TELO Trucks on EVs, Mini Pickups, and Autonomous Tech.&nbsp;More on Keith Norman and Lyten Inc:linkedin.com/in/keith-norman-8611b5132linkedin.com/company/lyten-inc/&nbsp;lyten.com&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, feedback, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed the show, please leave a review – it really helps us out!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Artificial intelligence is booming, and Max Evans is ready for it. “Discovering machine learning was my very first moment of witnessing magic.” That discovery led him to co-found ClimateAi straight out of his dorm room at Stanford with his roommate, Himanshu Gupta, in 2017.Today, the startup operates in 50 countries, using AI-enhanced forecasting to climate-proof global supply chains.&nbsp;Listen as Max shares his path from student to startup founder, unleashing the powerful potential of AI-based climate solutions.&nbsp;Episode timestamps:00:00 - 01:10 Max Evans on learning about artificial intelligence at Stanford University.01:11 - 03:44 Conor Gaughan introduces Max Evans of ClimateAi.&nbsp;03:45 - 06:49 Growing up, early influences, and school at Harvard.&nbsp;06:50 - 11:43 Machine learning, the family business, and launching a few startups.&nbsp;11:44 - 14:51 MBA at Stanford, environmental engineering, and artificial intelligence.14:52 - 20:27 The genesis of ClimateAi and its initial projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;20:28 - 24:35 The elevator pitch, climate intelligence, and how ClimateAi actually works&nbsp;24:36 - 33:02 AI’s potential, the reality around climate change, and being a voice in the industry.&nbsp;33:03 - 39:54 Aligning purpose and profits, ClimateAi projects, and innovations to keep an eye on.&nbsp;39:55 - 41:59 Motivation, finding solutions together, and staying optimistic.&nbsp;42:00 - 43:54 How to learn more and closing credits.If you liked this episode, listen next to Ron Hovsepian of Indigo Ag on Farming, Sustainability, and Technology.More on Max Evans and ClimateAi:climate.ai/&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/maximilian-evans-1b653770&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/climateaiAnd be sure to check out Max’s new venture at okus.aiConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, feedback, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed the show, please leave a review – it really helps us out!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Grant Quasha is betting big on green cement. "People don't realize how big the cement and concrete businesses are. [...] It's the number one commodity in the world other than water." &nbsp;The chairman and CEO of Eco Material Technologies views the $350+ billion cement industry as a giant potential market for sustainable construction. After years of investment banking in commodities and materials, Grant moved from investing in other businesses to building his own, with major impact.&nbsp;Listen as Grant Quasha shares loads of insight from selling sustainability plans to envisioning the massive role the materials sector could play in building a decarbonized future.Episode timestamps:00:00 - 00:56 Grant Quasha on the twofold potential of sustainable concrete.&nbsp;00:57 - 02:39 Conor Gaughan introduces Grant Quasha of Eco Material Technologies.02:40 - 06:18 Early career, materials and commodities, and the learning curve.&nbsp;06:19 - 13:30 Business school, international shipping, and building businesses.&nbsp;13:31 - 19:14 Green cement in Texas and concrete vs cement.&nbsp;19:15 - 26:16 How Eco Material Technologies creates impact.&nbsp;26:17 - 33:14 Capturing lightning in a bottle, potential growth, and pitching investors.&nbsp;33:15 - 39:33 Capital markets and aligning doing good with doing well.&nbsp;39:34 - 44:46 Public policy, climate legislation, and institutional support.&nbsp;44:47 - 49:10 Upcoming innovations, leaving a legacy, and setting priorities.49:11 - 50:57 How to learn more and closing credits.&nbsp;If you liked this episode, listen next to Chris Anderson of Vantem Global on Building Sustainable, Affordable Energy Efficient Homes At Scale.&nbsp;More on Grant Quasha and Eco Material Technologies:ecomaterial.com&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/gquasha&nbsp;linkedin.com/company/eco-material-technologies&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, feedback, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed the show, please leave a review – it really helps us out!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Peter Godart could have been a jazz musician, but instead pursued his other passion: engineering.&nbsp;After garnering a few degrees at MIT and working on space tech at NASA, Peter set his sights on yet another passion: saving the climate. In 2022, he launched Found Energy, a startup decarbonizing transport with aluminum.&nbsp;As Peter says, “When you work for NASA and one of your daily tasks is, you know, let's figure out how to catch a one meter sphere orbiting Mars at Mach 2… These problems that we have on Earth feel not that difficult by comparison… We could totally do this.”Join us to hear how Peter brought space-sized innovation back down to Earth.Episode timestamps:00:00 - 00:52 Peter Godart on solving problems for NASA in space and on the Earth.&nbsp;&nbsp;00:53 - 03:02 Conor Gaughan introduces Peter Godart of Found Energy.03:03 - 06:41 Growing up, interest in music, and engineering at MIT.06:42 - 15:10 Robotics, internships, NASA, and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.15:11 - 22:20 The origin of Found Energy and using aluminum for energy storage.22:21 - 25:26 Use cases, decarbonizing difficult industries, and hydrogen hubs.25:27 - 31:30 Balancing roles, how engineering influences management, and lessons learned.31:31 - 37:42 Sustainability, what’s at stake, the clean energy transition, and policy.37:43 - 43:21 Humanitarian programs, motivations, and exciting new innovations.43:22 - 45:40 How to learn more about Found Energy.45:41 - 46:23 Closing credits.If you liked this episode, listen to Seonghoon Woo of Amogy on Materials Science, Decarbonized Transport, and Alternative Fuels and Jay Bellows of KORE Power on Renewable Energy, Storage, and Basketball Wisdom.More on Peter Godart and Found Energy:FoundEnergy.comlinkedin.com/company/found-energy&nbsp;linkedin.com/in/petergodartAs mentioned in the podcast, Peter wrote a freely accessible book on climate change and thermodynamics. To read it, visit https://ocw.mit.edu/, type “Peter Godart” in the search bar, hit search, and click the first link titled “Thermodynamics and Climate Change.”Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone&nbsp;Have questions, feedback, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] you enjoyed the show, please leave a review – it really helps us out!&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

2023 has brought us 35 new guests and more than 2,000 minutes of conversations– join Conor Gaughan as he shares his insights, takeaways, and analysis on a few of our favorite moments from the year.Whether it’s breaking down sustainable business blueprints, finding motivation during difficult times, or imagining an entirely new industry, this episode has you covered!&nbsp;Featuring01:20 - 04:10 Catherine Roggero-Lovisi: CEO, Modern Meadow04:11 - 07:30 Rick Fox: Co-founder and CEO, Partanna07:31 - 11:24 Roger McClendon: Executive Director, Green Sports Alliance11:25 - 13:20 Tim Sheehy: Founder and CEO, Bridger Aerospace13:21 - 15:50 Greg Putnam: Co-founder and President, Little Belt Cattle Co.15:51 - 20:12 Andrew Gibbs-Dabney: Founder and CEO, LIVSN20:13 - 24:59 Ben Bressler: Founder and President, Natural Habitat25:00 - 27:48 Jenny Du: Co-founder and SVP, Operations, Apeel Sciences27:49 - 30:17 Joey Zwillinger: Co-founder and CEO, Allbirds30:18 - 33:43 Matt Rogers: Co-founder and CEO, Mill Industries33:44 - 36:46 Chris Wood: President and CEO, Trout Unlimited36:47 - 42:54 Tina May: VP, Rural Services and Chief of Staff to the CEO, Land O’Lakes42:55 - 45:52 Michael Chanin: CEO, Cherry Street Energy45:53 - 47:54 Paul Snyder: Executive Vice President, Stewardship, Tillamook County Creamery AssociationA big thank you to all of our guests this year, including Erik Oberholtzer, Nick Whitman, Ron Hovsepian, Seonghoon Woo, D’Wayne Edwards, Rick Fox, Matt Rogers, Ben Bressler, Jeff Siewicki, Michael Chanin, Jamila Norman, Forrest North and Jason Marks, Jay Bellows, Damon Barron, Catherine Roggero-Lovisi, Alfred Johnson, Chris Clark, Jenny Du, Chris Wood, Paul Snyder, Margo Walsh, Joey Zwillinger, Mark Danzenbaker and Peter Corsell, Jeff Simmons, Jean-Louis Warnholz, Cisco DeVries, Andrew Gibbs-Dabney, Chris Anderson, Jill Brosig, Greg Putnam, John Little, Tina May, Roger McClendon, Tim Sheehy, and Steve McHugh.Have questions, feedback, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at [email protected] with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone&nbsp;If you enjoyed the show, please leave a review – it really helps further our reach!Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.&nbsp;

This week’s guest is long-time chef Erik Oberholtzer, co-founder of Tender Greens, a revolutionary “fast casual” food brand. Now, as managing partner at Cohere, he helps other founders scale food brands making a positive impact.&nbsp;&nbsp;But before finding success as a chef, entrepreneur, and author, Erik was at Temple University working towards an undergrad psychology degree. In need of money, he took a concierge job at the Four Seasons Hotel in Philadelphia.&nbsp;The position required someone well-informed on the city’s culinary scene – the best restaurants, bars, cocktail lounges – so Erik immersed himself in that world.The experience ignited a newfound passion for food, and soon Erik was off to culinary school and much, much more.&nbsp;Join us to hear how Erik found himself on a mission to democratize food.&nbsp;Episode Highlights&nbsp;00:00 Erik on the early days of starting a business.&nbsp;&nbsp;00:53 Introducing Erik Obertholtzer and Tender Greens&nbsp;02:58 Growing up, developing a passion for food, and culinary school&nbsp;08:40 Early culinary career, the food scene, and entering the restaurant industry&nbsp;16:47 Career leading up to founding Tender Greens and the origin story25:25 Fun startup stories, hardships, and scaling the business29:57 Leaving Tender Greens, consulting, and Erik’s work at Cohere37:55 Aligning purpose with profits and the democratization of food42:50 Conclusion and end credits&nbsp;To learn more about Cohere, visit https://www.coherestudio.co/Follow Erik Oberholtzer on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-oberholtzer-930a934/Have a great idea or a guest in mind for a future conversation? Connect with Conor Gaughan on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ckgone/If you liked the show, please give us a follow and leave a review, it makes a big difference.&nbsp;Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

Today’s guest is Nick Whitman, co-founder and COO of Divert Inc.&nbsp;In 2007, Nick and co-founder Ryan Begin launched Divert with a simple, bold mission in mind: eliminate food waste. Since then, the firm has processed over 2.3 billion pounds of food waste, donated more than 10 million meals to the food insecure, and continues to develop new, innovative technologies.&nbsp;Nick has spent 16 years successfully scaling Divert to new heights, creating a first-of-its-kind food waste converter, designing and building a processing facility for Kroger, and revolutionizing food waste logistics.As you’ll hear, Nick is a treasure trove of business knowledge for aspiring founders, and just an all around fun guy to talk with –&nbsp; listen in on your favorite podcast platform.&nbsp;&nbsp;Episode Highlights (0:00) Nick Whitman on recycling&nbsp;(1:00) Conor introduces Nick and Divert (3:15) Growing up, business school, and energy (8:16) Origin story of Divert (13:42) Food waste and anaerobic digestion (15:49) Logistics and early growth (19:29) Divert’s technology (22:21) Stakeholders and policy&nbsp;(24:09) Getting the first yes and building momentum (26:49) Aligning profit with purpose&nbsp;(31:28) Sustainability and natural gas&nbsp;(34:54) Advice for future founders and growth mindset&nbsp;(38:06) Finding optimism&nbsp;(41:12) Conclusion and end credits For more on Nick Whitman and Divert, visit divertinc.com&nbsp;Connect with Conor Gaughan on LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the episode. You can follow, rate and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, or wherever you listen.Consensus in Conversation is a weekly podcast from Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume.

This week’s guest is Ron Hovsepian, president, CEO, and board member of Indigo Ag. Founded in 2013, the company uses nature-based and digital technology to optimize agricultural supply chains, increase farmer profits, and reduce environmental emissions.&nbsp;Ron spent his first 16 years after college at IBM, where he worked his way up the corporate ladder. He later served as president and CEO of Novell Inc. and Intralinks Inc. He also joined the Board of Directors for ANSYS in 2012, which he still serves on today.After serving on its board for a year, Ron began his current role at Indigo Ag in 2020. Since then, he’s used his valuable leadership and technology experience to develop new ways to help farmers and the natural environment they rely on.&nbsp;Ron brings an expert knowledge of leadership and technology to the conversation, and you won’t want to miss his insights on the future of agriculture, technology, and sustainability. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!More:Visit https://www.indigoag.com/ to learn more about Indigo Ag.&nbsp;Connect with host Conor Gaughan on LinkedIn to stay up to date on all things CiC.Time Stamps:(0:00) Ron Hovsepian on carbon removal(0:51) Conor Gaughan introduces Ron and Indigo Ag&nbsp;(3:02) Growing up in Boston, school, and career overview(7:28) Staying ahead of the curve and pattern recognition(11:41) Origin story of Indigo Ag and what they do&nbsp;(19:04) Technology, agriculture, and farmers(28:16) Water, waste, and soil&nbsp;(30:51) Carbon capture and merging profit with purpose(35:22) Building agricultural resilience(37:21) Growth and the future of Indigo Ag(39:26) Community, policymakers, and partnerships&nbsp;(43:19) Wisdom, tractors, and what’s next&nbsp;(49:42) Finding motivation and optimism(53:08) Conclusion and end creditsExtra Resources:Company Website → https://www.indigoag.com/&nbsp;Company Social → https://www.linkedin.com/company/indigoag/&nbsp;Guest Social → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronhovsepian/&nbsp;Conor Social → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ckgone/

This week’s guest is Dr. Seonghoon Woo, the chairman, co-founder, and CEO of Amogy, a tech startup using ammonia as a clean energy fuel source.Woo, an MIT doctoral graduate with an expertise in materials science, worked as a staff researcher at the Korean Institute of Science and Technology and at IBM, but he was always an entrepreneur at heart. During his studies, he witnessed the promising potential of ammonia as an energy source, and in 2020 , he launched Amogy Inc. with three MIT peers.To date, the startup has raised hundreds of millions in seed funding with Dr. Woo at the forefront, leading Amogy’s mission to decarbonize (and revolutionize) the transportation industry.&nbsp;If you’re a fan of science that seems like fiction (but actually isn’t!); if you love entrepreneurship, taking risks, or a classic startup success story, listen now on your favorite podcast platform.&nbsp;More:Check out https://amogy.co/ to learn about Amogy and their latest innovations.&nbsp;Connect with host Conor Gaughan on LinkedIn to stay up to date on all things CiC.&nbsp;Episode Highlights(0:00) - Seonghoon Woo on entrepreneurship(1:01) - Conor Gaughan introduces&nbsp;Dr. Woo and Amogy Inc.&nbsp;(2:26) - Growing up, military service, science education(6:14) - IBM, semiconductors, and energy(8:07) - Amogy, ammonia, and the current landscape(13:12) - Average customers and early investors(15:08) - Balancing science, technology, and business(16:51) - Business lessons from the early days&nbsp;(19:56) - Current growth, common misconceptions, and educating consumers(23:20) - Sustainability at Amogy and the wider energy sector&nbsp;(30:05) - Milestones, programs, and technological innovations(32:52) - Optimism and different perspectives on sustainability&nbsp;(37:26) - Conclusion(38:17) - End creditsExtra Resources:Company Website → https://amogy.co/&nbsp;Company Social → https://www.linkedin.com/company/amogy/&nbsp;Guest Social → https://www.linkedin.com/in/seonghoon-woo/&nbsp;Conor Social → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ckgone/

Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, Founder and President of the Pensole Lewis College of Business &amp; Design, joins this week’s Consensus in Conversation.&nbsp;Edwards is a legendary footwear designer. He rose to prominence in early sneakerhead culture as the head designer for Nike’s Jordan brand, where he designed over 500 styles for Michael Jordan, Tupac, the Notorious B.I.G., Dr. Dre, multiple Olympians, and countless other sports stars.&nbsp;In 2010, Edwards began a path mentoring and educating other aspiring designers, creating Pensole Footwear Design Academy, a first of its type in the nation. Later, Edwards reopened the Lewis College of Business, a formerly defunct HBCU in Detroit, Michigan, founding the Pensole Lewis College of Business &amp; Design in 2021.Today, Edwards is working on new and exciting ways to advance footwear design and education. The school recently announced JEMS by Pensole, the nation’s first Black-owned footwear factory. Dr. D’Wayne Edwards is an icon in the footwear industry, and even if you aren’t a sneakerhead, you’ve definitely seen his designs on famous musicians, athletes, or celebrities.&nbsp;For an inspiring conversation covering sneakers, self-taught schooling, business, launching a college(!), and so much more, listen now on your favorite podcast platform.&nbsp;More on the episode:Learn more about Jems by Pensole at https://jemsbypensole.com/ or on Instagram at @jemsbypensole&nbsp;Time Stamps!(0:00) - D’Wayne’s cold open(1:02) - Intro on Dr. Edwards, Pensole Lewis College, and JEMS(2:56) - Background: growing up, footwear, and California(8:23) - Sneaker culture and the footwear industry(12:51) - A big break into footwear design(19:03) - Nike, MJ, and D’Wayne’s legendary career(24:09) - Launching Pensole, a footwear design academy(33:22) - Launching Pensole Lewis College of Business &amp; Design(37:39) - Creating JEMS, the footwear factory(40:38) - Sustainability and creating a positive impact(44:52) - Mentorship, students, and legacy(47:58) - Advice for younger self(51:00) - Conclusion and end credits

Today’s episode features Rick Fox, co-founder and current CEO of Partanna Global, an innovative company developing carbon-negative concrete.Rick, a three-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, actor, and entrepreneur, launched Partanna in 2021 with co-founder and renowned L.A. architect Sam Marshall. Their idea was simple, if not audacious: make the traditional concrete-making process, a major source of global carbon emissions, “green.”And that initial idea has yielded promising results. Rick, who is originally from the Bahamas, spoke to us from inside Partanna’s newly unveiled model home concept in Nassau.&nbsp;He joins the pod to talk about building a winning team, his journey leading up to Partanna, what the future looks like, and his impromptu call with the Bahamian Governor. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.&nbsp;More on the episode:Check out Partanna’s new model home concept at https://homes.partanna.com/gallery&nbsp;Learn more about what Partanna and Rick Fox are up to at https://www.partanna.com/&nbsp;Episode Time Stamps:(0:00) - Rick’s cold open&nbsp;(1:20) - Intro on Rick Fox and Partanna(3:20) - Background and the Bahamas(10:09) - The origin story of Partanna(14:19) - Carbon-negative concrete and its impact(18:40) - Early moments and team effort(21:47) - VCs, markets, and first mover status&nbsp;(24:55) - Customers, sustainability, and durability(27:35) - Impact and doing good&nbsp;(30:36) - Carbon credits(32:56) - NBA career and lessons from Lakers(35:22) - Acting, entertainment, and the business world(37:22) - Optimism and motivation(39:10) - Best advice from a coach(40:42) - Conclusion and end credits