
The IQT Podcast
The IQT Podcast explores and offers insight about rapidly evolving technology trends and their impact and contributions to national security. Subscribe to hear from IQT and other thought leaders across a variety of tech domains, including AI and machine learning, biotechnology, autonomous systems, and more. IQT identifies, adapts, and delivers technology solutions from commercial startups to support the national security missions of the U.S. and its allies. Learn more at www.iqt.org.
Latest episodes

Feb 8, 2024 • 37min
IQT Explains: Challenges & Opportunities in Critical Mineral Supply Chain Security
In this episode of The IQT Podcast, Dr. Sarah Sewall delves into the world of critical minerals and the challenges facing the United States' supply chain security. Our guests, Nicole Richards, Nick Myers, and Oliver Gunasekara, share their expertise and innovative approaches to address these challenges. From developing biological solutions for rare earth element separation to utilizing autonomous underwater vehicles for critical mineral extraction, these industry leaders are at the forefront of technology and environmental stewardship. Join us as we explore the importance of domestic supply, responsible mining practices, and the need for government support to ensure a sustainable and secure critical minerals supply chain.
Key Takeaways
- Challenges in Critical Mineral Supply Chain Security
- Technological Solutions and Applications
- Environmental and Societal Impact
- Future Prospects and Challenges
- Government and International Partnerships
Featured in this Episode
Sarah Sewall
EVP, National Innovation Policy, IQT
Website: https://www.iqt.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsewall/
Nicole Richards
CEO, Allonnia
Website: https://allonnia.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-richards-3268b07/
Nick Myers
CEO, Phoenix Tailings
Website: https://phoenixtailings.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholaswilliammyers/
Oliver Gunasekara
CEO, Impossible Metals
Website: https://impossiblemetals.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gunasekara/
Additional Resources
- Closing the Critical Mineral Gap: https://assets.iqt.org/pdfs/Critical_Minerals_February_2023_final.pdf/web/viewer.html
- Why Will Deep Sea Mining Be Less Expensive Than Traditional Land-based Mining?: https://impossiblemetals.com/blog/why-will-deep-sea-mining-be-less-expensive-than-traditional-land-based-mining/
- Current Status of Deep Sea Mining Regulations: https://impossiblemetals.com/blog/current-status-of-deep-sea-mining-regulations/

Feb 6, 2024 • 32min
IQT Explains: Maritime Innovation in the Open Source
In this episode, host Vishal Sandesara and guest Michael Chadwick from IQT Labs discuss maritime innovation in the open source and maker communities. They cover IQT Labs' involvement in the maritime domain, challenges of AI algorithm data collection, and the spillover benefits of open source aerial drone contributions. Tune in as they highlight projects like the AI Sonobuoy, showcasing cutting-edge developments in maritime technology.
Topics
Accessibility of Open Source Technology
Government Interest in Maritime Technology Advancement
Challenges Faced by the Maker Community
Data Collection and Labeling for AI Algorithms
IQT Labs Initiatives
Featured in this Episode
Vishal Sandesara
VP, Operations
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals/
Michael Chadwick
SVP, Deputy Director, IQT Labs
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-chadwick-37208865/
Mentioned in this Episode
MakerBuoy (Wayne Pavalko)
https://www.instagram.com/makerbuoy/

Jan 30, 2024 • 27min
IQT Explains: Accelerating VC Activity in Maritime Innovation
In this episode of The IQT Podcast, host Vishal Sandesara leads a discussion on the accelerating venture capital activity in maritime innovation. Guests Diana Keenan, Abi Sivananthan, and Kevin Schaeffer delve into global maritime technology developments and the corresponding investment landscape. The conversation covers the different domains of maritime technology, including surface and subsurface exploration and the evolving market trends driven by advancements in enabling technologies. Tune in to learn all about the potential impact of maritime innovation on national security, commercial applications, and global geopolitics.
Key Topics
- Maritime Technology and Investment Landscape
- Enabling Technologies in Maritime Innovation
- Predictions for Future Developments in Maritime Innovation
- Leveraging Commercial Innovation
Featured in this Episode
Vishal Sandesara
VP, Operations
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals/
Abi Sivananthan
Senior Technology Architect, Intelligent Connectivity
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abirami-sivananthan-9b362b23/
Diana Keenan
Senior Associate
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-keenan-cfa/
Kevin Schaeffer
VP, Advanced Systems
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-schaeffer-39a4404/

Jan 9, 2024 • 28min
The Intersection: When Venture Meets Mission
Arun Gupta, venture capitalist and author of 'Venture Meets Mission,' discusses bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and public service, attracting talent for national security challenges, and the evolving landscape of mission-driven ventures.

Dec 14, 2023 • 33min
The Intersection: Executing Innovation on a Mission
In this episode of The Intersection, we explore the dynamic realm where innovation meets mission execution. Our usual host and newly appointed CEO, Steve Bowsher, takes the passenger seat this week, allowing IQT’s editorial director, Martin Giles, to take the wheel. With Steve as the interviewee, we get the chance to learn how IQT has been the premier partner trusted to identify, evaluate, and leverage emerging commercial technologies for the national security community for nearly 25 years. Listen in to learn about the enduring success of IQT, the organization’s adept navigation of the intricate landscape of public-private partnerships, and how IQT shapes and deploys emerging technologies for government agencies. Prepare for a captivating discussion on the future of innovation and its profound impact on mission-driven organizations.
Topics
Introduction to IQT and its Mission
Steve’s Background and Silicon Valley Experience
Overcoming Challenges in Connecting the Public and Private Sectors
IQT's Impact on Government Agencies
Becoming a Global Organization
Investment Strategies
Trust & Differentiation at IQT
Shifting Trends in Supply Chain Management
Facilitating Adoption of Technologies
Aligning Capital Stacks for Strategic Innovation
Featured in this Episode
Martin Giles
Editorial Director, IQT
Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinpgiles/
Steve Bowsher
President & CEO, IQT
Profile: https://www.iqt.org/about-iqt/#modal-bio-05788d2f-6741-43c7-86a4-e46c89ab1aa9

Nov 28, 2023 • 25min
IQT Explains: How Resilient is America’s Positioning, Navigation, & Timing Data?
This episode of The IQT Podcast delves into the world of positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) data, which plays a critical part in supporting modern economies and infrastructure. This often overlooked, invisible aspect of our daily lives is crucial for synchronizing financial transactions, transportation, and navigation services. However, satellite-based PNT data is vulnerable to disruptions, which can have catastrophic consequences for our economy and national security. IQT's Abi Sivananthan, along with Dana Goward, President of the Resilient Navigation and Timing Foundation, join Dr. Sarah Sewall to discuss the resilience of PNT data and what the United States can do to enhance its security. Join us as we explore the nuances of this critical area for innovation and national security.
Topics
• The Importance of PNT Data for National Security and Economic Activity
• Enhancing the Resilience of PNT Data in the United States
• Technological Evolution of Satellite Provided PNT
• Security Concerns and Vulnerabilities of Satellite Provided PNT
• Modernization and the Limitations of GPS Satellites
Featured in this Episode
Sarah Sewall
Executive Vice President, National Innovation Policy (IQT)
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsewall/
Dana Goward
President of the Resilient Navigation and Timing Foundation
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-a-goward-3631bb51/
Abi Sivananthan
Senior Technology Architect, Intelligent Connectivity (IQT)
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abirami-sivananthan-9b362b23/

Nov 21, 2023 • 36min
IQT Explains: The Future of the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS)
In this episode of The IQT Podcast, host Dr. Sarah Sewall is joined by guests Dr. Scott Pace and Steve Poizner to discuss the future of the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS). They delve into the development of GPS, its importance in both civilian life and military capabilities, and the challenges it faces in staying ahead of other global navigation satellite systems. The episode sheds light on the crucial role GPS plays in our modern world and explores potential solutions for its continued success. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding GPS and why it is sometimes referred to as “the invisible utility.”
Topics
• Historical and Policy Perspectives on GPS
• The Future of GPS and GNSS
• Challenges in Upgrades and Modernization
• Commercial Uses and Reliability of GPS
• Implications and Advocacy for GPS Modernization
Featured in this Episode
Sarah Sewall
IQT
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsewall/
Steve Poizner
OneNav
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevepoizner/
Scott Pace
George Washington University
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pace-4011311/

Oct 24, 2023 • 35min
IQT Explains: Fintech
In this episode of IQT Explains, Rita Waite and Ming Luo join our Vishal Sandesara to discuss fintech from their unique perspectives as an investor and technologist, respectively. Hear more about the evolution of currency exchange, global trends in fintech, and regional differences in payment etiquette. While recent developments in digital payment methods have allowed for a new level of consumer convenience, they have also led to record amounts of fraud and identity theft. This episode focuses on what is currently being done and what can be done in the future to enhance digital security so that we can continue to reap the benefits of financial technology without succumbing to the risks.
Topics
Introduction to Fintech and its Impact on the Financial Landscape
Fintech Revolution and Digital Payments
Fraud and Identity Verification Issues in Fintech
Evolving Stages of Fintech
Opportunities and Concerns in Fintech
Risk Assessment and Challenges in Fintech
Security vs. Convenience
Global Trends and Leaders in Fintech
IQT’s website: https://www.iqt.org/
Featured in this Episode
Vishal Sandesara
VP Operations, IQT Labs
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals
Rita Waite
Principal
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritacwaite/
Ming Luo
VP, Technology
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ming-luo-312b775

6 snips
Sep 5, 2023 • 35min
The Intersection Podcast: Exploring the Nexus of AI & Quantum
Join host Steve Bowsher as he chats with Jack Hidary, CEO of SandboxAQ, about the fusion of AI and quantum tech, revolutionizing drug development with GPUs, sandboxAQ's educational initiatives for emerging tech, the importance of dual-use technology, and using magnetic fields for global navigation.

Aug 1, 2023 • 25min
The Intersection: Memoirs of a Life in Intelligence, Special Ops, & Strategy
Join Dr. Michael Vickers as he shares his insights into intelligence and special operations. Learn about the vital relationship between defense and intelligence, the US-China competition in technology, and the alignment between CIA and DOD. Listen to his valuable advice for the next generation of leaders in technology and national security.
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