Inevitable

Adam Stein, Director of Nuclear Energy Innovation at the Breakthrough Institute, discusses the launch of 'Build Nuclear Now', public opinion shifts on nuclear energy, contrast in energy policies, and advanced nuclear reactors. The conversation explores the history of nuclear power, challenges in the US energy landscape, market fit of advanced reactors, transitioning from coal, nuclear fuel, waste, and sustainability goals.

California Senator Scott Wiener and Heirloom CEO Shashank Samala discuss climate policy and carbon removal. Topics include SB 253, carbon accounting, and the convergence of policy and innovation. They explore the importance of standards, collaboration with startups, measuring CO2 emissions, and diverse customer categories in climate efforts.

Dr. Sarah Kapnick, Chief Scientist at NOAA with a finance background, discusses NOAA's role in climate, resilience, and adaptation. Topics include NOAA's departments, marine resources, climate modeling, and challenges of planning for an evolving climate. The conversation also touches on the intersection of climate science and finance, funding programs for coastal resilience, and the importance of adaptive infrastructure planning.

Ning Mosberger-Tang, a former Google engineer turned climate advocate, discusses her initiatives in climate tech investing, democracy reform, and investigative reporting. She emphasizes the importance of policy work, grassroots movements like the Blue Wave Postcard Movement, and strategic funding for climate action in the 2024 elections.

Dr. Peter Fiske from NAWI discusses desalination, water reuse, challenges, and opportunities. The conversation covers the importance of sustainable water solutions, water scarcity, rising water demand in energy-intensive industries, innovative water conservation techniques, businesses' responsibilities in emissions and water management, the federal landscape of water management, navigating career transitions, and driving innovation in the water sector.

Eric Law, CEO of Urban Machine, discusses reclaiming lumber from construction sites to reduce waste. They use robotics and AI to prep wood for re-use. The podcast covers challenges in the construction industry, the importance of sustainability, and Urban Machine's innovative technology.

Brandon Hurlbut, co-founder of Boundary Stone Partners and Overture, discusses the intersection of policy and innovation for climate change. He explores the impact of grassroots movements like the Sunrise Movement on climate policy discussions and the need for collaborative efforts between various sectors. Brandon also delves into navigating government entities for clean energy innovation, bipartisan initiatives in clean energy, and the importance of climate advocacy in electoral activities.

Renowned science fiction author Kim Stanley Robinson discusses his impactful novel Ministry for the Future, exploring themes of climate change, capitalism, and society. The conversation touches on terraforming Mars, sea-level rise in Lower Manhattan, and the importance of decarbonization solutions. Robinson's deep connection with nature, reflections on civil disobedience, global governance challenges, and utopian scenarios for the future are also highlighted.

An exploration of quantum computing and its potential to address climate change by Rigetti Computing CEO. Topics include qubits, quantum vs. classical computing, energy requirements, and applications in biotech and AI. Quantum computing's transformative impact on climate solutions and advancements in qubit development and energy efficiency. Possibilities of reducing data center energy consumption and revolutionizing energy production through fusion power. Emphasis on fostering innovation for a sustainable future.

This podcast delves into Eric Letvin's role at FEMA, discussing pre and post-disaster mitigation strategies. They explore FEMA's evolution, emphasizing mitigation vs. resilience outcomes. The episode also covers flood and wildfire mitigation efforts, FEMA's operational structure, and the importance of funding for disaster relief and mitigation.