The Moonshot Podcast

In a lively discussion from SXSW 2025, guests Adam Savage, a champion of experimental curiosity, Catie Cuan, a visionary choreographer and robot engineer, and Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, explore radical innovation. They delve into the fusion of human creativity and technology, addressing topics like the future of human-robot interaction, the importance of embracing failure as a stepping stone for breakthroughs, and how past experiences can inspire new ideas. The conversation emphasizes collaboration and the imaginative spirit essential for tackling global challenges.

Jason Rugolo, a self-starter and creator of the next-generation audio wearable IyO, shares insights on how technology can enhance presence rather than distract. He discusses the evolution of wearable devices like Google Glass and the challenges of integrating digital and physical experiences. The conversation covers innovative audio technology, emphasizing real-time translation through stylish devices. Rugolo also reflects on the importance of timing in entrepreneurship and the role of creativity and collaboration in tech development.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Forkin, a hardware engineer leading the transformative Blixt fusion moonshot, explores the challenges of achieving controlled nuclear fusion. Page Crahan, General Manager of Tapestry, shares insights on modernizing the electric grid using AI to enhance efficiency and sustainability. They dive into innovative energy solutions inspired by nature, the quest for fusion energy, and the importance of strategic partnerships. It’s a riveting look at how bold ideas can tackle the world’s pressing energy challenges.

Natural disasters will keep coming — but what if we could stay one step ahead? That’s the mission of Bellwether, a moonshot working to build a “crystal ball” for the natural world. Their team is uniting the talents and expertise of firefighters and physicians to turn messy geospatial data into real-time forecasts for fire, flood and beyond, helping communities prepare for the unpredictable. We also meet the inventors behind 280 Earth, a project that uses waste heat from data centres to pull CO₂ from the air and produce clean water in the process. This is a story about resilience — technological, economic and human — and the power of radical foresight.Hosted by Astro Teller, Captain of Moonshots, The Moonshot Podcast goes behind the scenes with the engineers and inventors using breakthrough technologies to try to find radical solutions to the world’s biggest problems. These are the untold stories from 15 years of Google’s innovation lab.Thank you to Robert Baird, Sarah Russell, Jacques Gagne and Helen Riley for featuring in this episode. The Moonshot Podcast is a Blanchard House production for X, the moonshot factory. It’s produced by Ellie Sans and Sophie Eastaugh. Original music by Louis Nanke-Mannell and Daniel Lloyd-Evans. Sound design and mix engineering by Toby Matimong. The executive producers are Amica Sciortino Nowlan and Rebecca Maxted. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Emily Ma, a former mechanical engineer at Alphabet's moonshot factory, and Rey Banatao, a leader in innovative recycling solutions, as they tackle the huge issues of food and plastic waste. They explore an air traffic control system for surplus food and discuss advanced technology's role in revolutionizing waste management. The conversation highlights the staggering impacts of waste on our economy and environment, emphasizing transformative community efforts and the potential of digital solutions to combat food insecurity.

In a captivating discussion, Hans Peter Brondmo, a tech entrepreneur behind the Everyday Robots project, and Wendy Tan White, CEO of Intrinsic, share their insights on the future of robotics. Artist-engineer Catie Cuan adds flair by teaching robots to dance, showcasing the blend of artistry and technology. They delve into the pressing need for robotics in elder care and aging populations, and explore how enhancing human-robot interaction can reshape public perception. The conversation ultimately highlights how robots can evolve from mere tools to trusted companions.

In this engaging discussion, Elliot Grant, an engineer dedicated to global food security, teams up with Evan Rapoport, founder of Tidal, and David Guerena, a research scientist focused on crop resilience in Africa. They explore innovative technologies revolutionizing agriculture. Topics include AI's role in improving crop yields and sustainable solutions for ocean aquaculture. The conversation highlights the importance of seed banks for genetic diversity and how robotics is transforming smallholder farming, all aimed at feeding a growing world population.

Benoît Schillings, a former CTO at X and VP of research at Google DeepMind, and Olivia Hatalsky, a Director at Google DeepMind, share insights into the transformative power of AI. They discuss the inception and evolution of Google Brain, revealing its impact on deep learning and coding. The conversation highlights Project Ada, an AI designed to simplify coding, and the potential of AI to revolutionize innovation across various sectors. Their perspectives shed light on the exciting possibilities and challenges of integrating AI into everyday problem-solving.

Mahesh Krishnaswamy, a key player at X focused on affordable internet access, and Nick Kohli, a creative force at X's Moonshot Factory, share their groundbreaking insights. They delve into Loon's daring high-altitude balloon project and its legacy in Taara, which employs light beams for connectivity. Expect amusing tales of balloon mishaps, unconventional challenges like monkeys disrupting setups, and the bold mission to enhance internet accessibility in Africa, especially across the Congo River. Their passion for tackling connectivity issues shines through!

Sebastian Thrun, co-founder of X and a pioneer in self-driving technology, teams up with Andre Prager, chief engineer at Wing, who has long been passionate about aviation. They recount the incredible journey of self-driving cars and drone deliveries, from skepticism to reality. The conversation dives into the transformative impact of autonomous vehicles on urban mobility and logistics, touching upon regulatory hurdles and community engagement. They also explore the ethical responsibilities of innovation, emphasizing collaboration for societal benefits.