

Earthlings 2.0 Podcast
Lisa Ann Pinkerton
The Earthlings Podcast takes a look at the big issues facing humanity in the early 21st century and our relationship to our environment, technology, and each other. Each episode, award-winning journalist, and former NPR reporter Lisa Ann Pinkerton hosts experts, scientists, and leaders working to solve the world’s biggest challenges. Together, they cover wide-ranging topics including environmental solutions, emerging technologies, what the future might look like, and more.
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Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 10, 2023 • 34min
#26: The Forever Fuel in Nuclear Fusion with Randall Volberg
Hello Earthlings! In today’s episode, our host Lisa Ann Pinkerton (CEO of Technica Communications), and our guest Randall Volberg (Type One Energy), discuss the potential benefits of Nuclear Fusion. We speak about the differences between the different types of nuclear fusion reactor design and how they can be used to provide clean highly dense energy for the planet.Throughout the episode, we have a comprehensive discussion about the challenges associated with nuclear power and insights and potential solutions to address the issues of clean renewable energy and nuclear waste. Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore pathways to a more sustainable and secure future for our energy!This episode is a continuation of our exploration of nuclear energy which began in Season 1 episode 6 titled, “To Nuclear or Not.” The focus of that show centered around the nuclear fission technology such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and the question of keeping existing plants open. Key TopicsWhat is the difference between a stellarator and a tokamak?What is nuclear fusion? Why is it better than fission?How nuclear fission helps the environmentHow long until we can actually use this amazing technology?Also, on today’s show we are starting a new segment where we highlight people using their creativity and passion to make the world a better place. Today’s focus is on Sungai Watch, a company founded by the siblings Gary, Kelly and Sam Bencheghib in Bali, Indonesia. Their simple trash barriers and community organizing is reducing the plastic pollution in Indonesia’s waterways. So far they, along with their 85 river warriors, have successfully removed 3 million pounds of plastic waste, in 9 villages, with 180 floating plastic barriers and over 700 community cleanups.Web Resources:S1E6 - To Nuclear or NotOur podcast websiteTo support the show, head over to our Patreon Page!Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!Technica's websiteRandall’s website https://typeoneenergy.com/ Type One Energy website Article explaining the Kardashev scale from which Type One Energy gets its nameArticle that explains stellarator and tokamak designs with photos/illustrations Quora article on what a megajoule isRandall Volberg LinkedInLink to Season one episode on the website To Nuclear or NotSungai Watch Website Instagram🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Oct 3, 2023 • 29min
#25: A Mighty Urban Wind Future with Erika Boeing
Hello Earthlings! In today’s episode, our host Lisa Ann Pinkerton (CEO of Technica Communications) and our guest Erika Boeing (CEO and founder of Accelerate Wind) discuss how we can generate energy from small wind turbines, similar to solar power! Historically, small wind technology has faced obstacles, but Erika Boeing's background sets her apart. With her impressive experience as a NASA mechanical components intern and her work on "Project Drawdown," Erika brings a wealth of expertise in engineering and research to the table.Erika and Accelerate Wind are unlocking the potential of untapped renewable energy in urban environments, without disrupting the urban landscape! Join us as we explore the world of small wind technology, redefining the possibilities for clean and sustainable energy right in the heart of our cities. Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation on the future of urban energy solutions!Web Resources:To see a photo of what the Accelerate Wind system looks like, visit their websiteOur podcast websiteTo support the show, head over to our Patreon Page!Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!Technica's websiteWomen in Cleantech & Sustainability website🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Sep 26, 2023 • 37min
#24: The Fast Future of AI with David Kruguer
Hello Earthlings! In today’s episode, our host Lisa Ann Pinkerton (CEO of Technica Communications) and our guest David Krueger (Assistant Professor at Cambridge University) discuss the blisteringly fast future of AI! In his work at Cambridge, David helps with the computational lab and its machine learning departments. He focuses on deep learning algorithms, AI alignment and in his words “whatever we can do to prevent the chance that AI leads to human extinction.” David has a vast knowledge of the ways an AI system could potentially disrupt and in some cases even jeopardize human life as we know it.We explore the fundamental differences between Narrow AI and General AI, analyze potential risks, and ponder the implications of Superhuman AI. Join us on this journey through the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence! Web Resources:Our podcast websiteTo support the show, head over to our Patreon Page!Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!Technica's websiteWomen in Cleantech & Sustainability website🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Sep 19, 2023 • 35min
#23: The Perils and Payoffs of Carbon Credits with Sasha Mackler
Hello Earthlings! In today’s episode we are joined by our host Lisa Ann Pinkerton (CEO of Technica Communications), and our guest Sasha Mackler (Executive Director of The Energy Program at the Bipartisan Policy Center). We zoom in on the promising concept of compensating projects that drawdown carbon emissions.In this discussion of voluntary carbon markets, Sasha and Lisa Ann discuss how carbon credits work, and the reputation challenges the industry faces; most recently with the scandal from credit provider Vera. Sasha outlines how we could improve voluntary carbon markets to encourage more participation and why there’s a move from natural based carbon projects, to ones that are more technology based, plus much, much more!Web Resources:Our podcast websiteThe Guardian's Investigative reporting of Verra - read the report To support the show, head over to our Patreon Page!Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!Technica's websiteWomen in Cleantech & Sustainability website🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Sep 5, 2023 • 33min
#22: The Land of the Lost Food with Lisa Johnson
Hello Earthlings! In today’s episode, our host Lisa Ann Pinkerton (CEO of Technica Communications), and our guest Dr. Lisa Johnson (a), discuss the impact of global food waste! Dr. Johnson is a researcher and Adjunct Assistant ProfessorAdjunct Assistant Professor North Carolina State University, private consultant in food loss and agriculture, and serves as the Board Chair of UpRoot Colorado. We delve into the pressing issue of the climate crisis and its far-reaching implications for food security especially for the global south. As temperatures continue to rise worldwide, agriculture yields are dwindling, prompting farmers to adapt by switching to more resilient crop varieties. We underscore the gravity of the global food security crisis, which affects regions across the globe, irrespective of their level of development. What often remains concealed is the issue of food loss, overshadowed by the attention given to harvest yields.Throughout the episode, we engage in a comprehensive discussion about these interconnected challenges, featuring expert insights and potential solutions to address the multifaceted issues of climate change, agriculture, food security, and food loss. Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore pathways to a more sustainable and secure future for our global food supply!Web Resources:Our podcast websiteGleaning in Colorado: National gleaning project.orgTo support the show, head over to our Patreon Page!Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!Technica's websiteLisa’s website 🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Aug 29, 2023 • 42min
#21: The Big Idea Behind Tiny Homes with Lindsey Wood
Hello Earthlings! In today’s episode, our host Lisa Ann Pinkerton (CEO of Technica Communications) and our guest Lindsey Wood (CEO of Go Tiny Academy) discuss, you guessed it, tiny home living! Lindsey’s journey into tiny home living began with a series of challenges that ultimately shaped her into an expert in the field. She's now committed to sharing her insights through the Tiny Home Academy, helping others downsize, create living space solutions, and explore the possibilities of tiny living. Lindsey and Lisa Ann share personal experiences of living in a tiny home on wheels while traveling extensively. Lindsey also shares how people can think about tiny home living depending on the type of home they want, the land they have or the ordinances where they live.Web Resources:Our podcast websiteTiny Home Lady websiteTo support the show, head over to our Patreon Page!Thanks to Resource Lab's for having us on the network!Technica's website🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Aug 22, 2023 • 29min
#20: Digitizing Democracy with Hannes Astok
Hello Earthlings! In today’s episode, host Lisa Ann Pinkerton (CEO of Technica Communications) we explore the concept of using the internet for government interactions and services, also known as e-governance. Our guest Hannes Astok(Executive Director, Chairman of the Management Board - Estonia’s e-Governance Academy) talks to us about Estonia's advanced e-governance system and how other countries are taking advantage of their experience.Estonia's online services encompass a range of tasks, yet some, like marriage and divorce, require in-person presence due to cultural reasons rather than technological limitations.Implementing e-governance presents challenges in inclusivity and accessibility, particularly for citizens with limited digital access. Hannes shares insights from diverse regions, enriching the conversation on practical implementation and impact while touching on topics such as AI and what the future of e-governance will look like.Web Resources:Our podcast websiteTo support the show, head over to our Patreon Page!Thanks to Resource Lab's for having us on the network!Technica's website🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Aug 15, 2023 • 28min
#19: Fossil Fuel Misinformation with Duncan Meisel Executive Director, Clean Creatives
Welcome back! We’re back in communications range to continue our collective journey of exploration into what the future holds for all living things on our planet. In the second episode of the season, we explore the hidden work that helps oil and gas companies undermine the many efforts of forward-thinking Earthlings to combat climate change. Our guest today is Duncan Meisel, Executive Director of Clean Creatives, who advocates the crucial yet sensitive role of PR firms in clean energy transition! The discussion will touch upon the F-list, an independent analysis from Clean Creatives revealing over 230 creative agencies working on global marketing strategies in support oil and gas companies. Mentioned in this podcast is how Hill & Knowlton promotes their support of a net-zero future on their website here, even as they manage the Oil and Gas Climate Iniative. Please tune in for an engaging discussion that delves into the possibilities that lie ahead and the potential of PR to shape a better narrative towards clean energy transition in the world.Stay curious, stay engaged, and stay tuned!Voices featured on the show: Duncan Meisel, ED of Clean CreativesLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO Technica CommunicationsRequisite Shameless PlugsThank you to Resource Labs for having us on the network.Follow us on our social channels to get the latest on episodes and other content. Please consider donating to our Patreon page to support the show. 🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Aug 9, 2023 • 31min
#18: The Recycler for Spaceship Earth with Brittany Zimmerman, CEO of Yummet
Welcome to Season 3! We’re back in communications range to continue our collective journey of exploration into what the future holds for all living things on our planet. In this first episode of the season, we explore how technology developed for space travel is being reused here on planet Earth. Our guest is Brittany Zimmerman, CEO of Yummet, a remarkable female entrepreneur who has pioneered a groundbreaking innovation.Using her deep expertise as one of the youngest NASA Principal Investigator and Aerospace Systems Engineers and experience developing life support systems for long-duration spaceflight and habitation, Zimmerman is transforming those solutions to benefit life on Earth. Yummet’s technology solution mimics the natural process of mother nature to break down waste and transform it into valuable minerals, soils, water, clean air, green hydrogen and green concrete. Please tune in for an engaging discussion that delves into the possibilities that lie ahead and the potential of technology to shape a better future for us all.Stay curious, stay engaged, and stay tuned!Voices features on the show: Brittany Zimmerman, CEO of YummetLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO Technica CommunicationsRequisite Shameless PlugsThank the Resource Labs for having us on the network Follow us on our social channels to get the latest on episodes and other content. Please consider donating to our Patreon page to support the show. 🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!

Aug 1, 2023 • 5min
#17: Season Three Preview
An Earthling EvolutionWelcome Earthlings to Season 3! In this special episode, creator and host Lisa Ann Pinkerton previews what’s new on the podcast, how it’s elevated to Earthlings 2.0, and highlights some of the captivating you’ll hear in the first few episodes. Join us as we speak to entrepreneurs, researchers, scientists, and policy advocates to explore a wide range of topics, including innovative climate solutions, groundbreaking emerging technologies, and intriguing glimpses into the future.Whether you're passionate about sustainable living, fascinated by cutting-edge advancements, or curious about the world we'll inhabit in the coming years, The Earthlings 2.0 Podcast has something for everyone. Prepare for insightful discussions and thought-provoking conversations that will inspire you to take action and make a positive impact on our planet.Guest Voices featured in this preview in order of their appearance: Brittany Zimmerman, CEO of YummetDuncan Meisel, Executive Director, Clean CreativesHannes Astok, Executive Director and Chairman of the Management Board at e-Governance AcademyLindsay Wood, CEO, Go Tiny AcademyDavid Krueger, Assistant Professor at the University of Cambridge Dr. Lisa Johnson, Food Loss in Agriculture, Author, AdvisorTune in to Season 3 of The Earthlings Podcast and embark on a journey of knowledge, hope, and discovery as we come together to create a better future for all Earthlings. Stay curious, stay engaged, and stay tuned!🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!