Frank Fannon, founder of Fannon Global Advisors and former Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, sheds light on upcoming shifts in America's energy policy under a possible second Trump administration. He discusses the balancing act between energy security and climate initiatives amid global tensions like the U.S.-China trade war. Fannon emphasizes the role of energy diplomacy and the historical context shaping U.S. energy independence, as well as the implications of domestic policies on international relations and climate agreements.

Alice Hill, a climate expert and former Obama administration official, and Colin McCormick, a principal scientist focused on carbon removal, discuss the rising challenges of extreme weather, particularly in Southern California's wildfires. They delve into groundbreaking AI-powered weather forecasting models that outperform traditional predictions and emphasize the urgent need for these technologies to reach at-risk communities. The conversation also touches on how innovative strategies can drastically improve disaster preparedness and enhance public weather services.

Peter Schwartzstein, an award-winning journalist specializing in climate security, discusses how climate change is a growing catalyst for conflict. He highlights the psychological impacts of climate-related trauma on communities and the rise of agricultural crime as regions face increasing stress. Schwartzstein delves into how water scarcity fuels civil unrest, even in wealthier democracies. He also shares insights on environmental peacebuilding, illustrating how collaborative resource management can foster trust and mitigate violence.

Eric Toone, a technical lead at Breakthrough Energy Ventures, discusses the critical role of energy in economic growth, especially in developing nations. He emphasizes the urgent need for innovative and affordable clean energy solutions to meet soaring demand. The conversation highlights the potential of nuclear power, geothermal energy, and the promising future of green hydrogen. Additionally, Toone explores the complexities of transitioning to sustainable energy while balancing economic development and environmental impact, urging a robust investment strategy.

Thiago Barral, Brazil's National Secretary of Planning and Energy Transition, dives into the country's pivotal energy transition. He discusses the ambitious low-carbon hydrogen framework and a new regulated carbon market. Barral highlights Brazil's dual role as a major oil producer and an environmental leader amidst deforestation reduction efforts. The talk covers Brazil's strategies for blending clean energy growth with economic policies and the upcoming COP30 climate talks, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions in energy security.

Join Cheryl LaFleur, a former FERC chair and current advisory board member at the Center on Global Energy Policy, and David Hill, ex-general counsel of the U.S. Department of Energy, as they explore America’s shifting energy landscape. They discuss challenges of electrification, the resurgence of nuclear power, and the need for a diverse energy mix. The duo also dives into the complexities of modernizing the electric grid, the implications of AI and data centers on power demand, and the critical call for permitting reforms in energy infrastructure.

Elliot Diringer, a global fellow at the Center on Global Energy Policy and a climate diplomacy expert, shares his insights from the recent COP29 summit in Azerbaijan. He discusses the $300 billion pledge from industrialized nations to support developing countries, noting it falls short of the $1 trillion needed. Diringer highlights the ongoing challenges of fossil fuel industry influence and the need for enhanced financing and cooperation. He also reflects on the evolving role of the U.S. in global climate action and anticipates key topics for COP30.

Harry Krejsa, Director of Studies at the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy & Technology, discusses critical cybersecurity challenges in the clean energy transition. He highlights increasing vulnerabilities as energy systems become more digital and interconnected, raising concerns over potential attacks from adversaries like China and Russia. Krejsa emphasizes the need for a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, including AI's role in enhancing defenses and the importance of public-private partnerships to protect critical infrastructure.

Vince Beiser, an author and journalist known for his work in Wired and The New York Times, dives into the intricate relationship between the clean energy transition and mining for critical minerals. He discusses the looming environmental and social impacts of increased demand, especially in regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo. Beiser advocates for ethical sourcing, recycling, and innovative extraction methods while examining the role of government support in navigating these complex challenges. The conversation emphasizes rethinking our reliance on cars and promoting sustainable practices.

Tim Gould, the chief energy economist at the International Energy Agency, sheds light on the hidden costs of the clean energy transition. As demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and copper surges, he discusses the potential environmental and social impacts, particularly in developing countries. The conversation dives into the role of U.S. policy in mitigating mining damage and explores how to balance resource extraction with sustainability. Gould emphasizes the urgent need for innovative approaches to secure a cleaner energy future.