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Join John O'Donnell, co-founder of Rondo Energy, as he unveils the potential of hot bricks in transforming how industries harness renewable energy. He discusses innovative ways to produce intense industrial heat using affordable solar and wind energy. O'Donnell highlights challenges in scaling operations and regulatory hurdles while emphasizing the importance of cost-effectiveness. Learn how these heated bricks could revolutionize manufacturing practices and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, paving the way for a sustainable industrial future.

Jenny Chase, a leading solar analyst at Bloomberg NEF, discusses the staggering 97% drop in solar panel prices over the last two decades. She highlights how Germany's 2004 feed-in tariff propelled solar's growth and the rise of Chinese manufacturing. The conversation explores the transformative potential of free solar energy during peak sunlight and the economic implications for consumer behavior. Chase also addresses the challenges of grid infrastructure and regulatory hurdles while emphasizing solar's surprising growth in Texas and ambitious projects like energy transmission from Australia to Singapore.

Paul Reichert, a research scientist at Merck, tackles the intriguing question of conducting drug research in space to enhance treatments on Earth. He dives into the advantages of crystallization in microgravity, highlighting breakthroughs that could revolutionize oncology drugs. The conversation also touches on the essential qualities of astronauts that contribute to successful experiments. Paul shares humorous anecdotes from recovery operations of space crystals, emphasizing their potential to advance biomedical applications and the innovative technologies shaping the future of space research.

Hannah Ritchie, a data scientist and deputy editor of Our World in Data, addresses how we can escape the doomsday narrative around global challenges. She highlights significant advancements in agriculture and health while tackling misconceptions about progress in global hunger. The discussion dives into sustainable meat consumption and the impact of livestock on emissions. Ritchie also emphasizes the importance of renewable energy and data visualization in creating a sustainable future. Her insights challenge the negativity often found in mainstream narratives.

Join veterinarian Monica Murphy, co-author of "Rabid," as she dives into the chilling cultural history of rabies, revealing its connections to folklore like vampires and werewolves. Wildlife biologist Kathy Nelson shares her thrilling experiences in managing rabies in raccoons by distributing vaccines from the sky. Discover how the rabies vaccine transformed our bond with pets and learn about innovative strategies in wildlife management. This engaging discussion sheds light on the science and stories behind a disease that has haunted us for centuries.

In this engaging discussion, Shannon Boye, a leading professor and co-founder of Atsena Therapeutics, dives into the transformative world of gene therapy for blindness. She shares fascinating insights about using viruses to deliver therapeutic genes and highlights breakthroughs, such as the trial for Leber Congenital Amaurosis type 1. Shannon also explores the brain's adaptability in processing vision after treatment and the balance between academic passion and the challenges of entrepreneurship in this groundbreaking field.

Beth Shapiro, Chief Scientific Officer at Colossal Biosciences and author of How to Clone a Mammoth, dives into the thrilling world of de-extinction. She discusses the quest to resurrect iconic species like the woolly mammoth and dodo through genetic engineering and ancient DNA analysis. The ethical implications and scientific hurdles of this ambitious endeavor are explored, along with the innovative technologies fueling the revival. Plus, Beth shares humorous tales about collecting ancient DNA, showcasing the adventurous side of cutting-edge science.

Lee Gray, a renowned elevator historian and architectural history professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, shares fascinating insights into the world of elevators. He discusses how elevators revolutionized urban landscapes, enabling skyscrapers and shaping human behavior. Gray highlights cutting-edge innovations, including space-bound elevators and lateral movement systems. Their simultaneous invention alongside escalators marked a pivotal moment in the Industrial Revolution. With a mix of history and humor, the conversation also touches on the quirky portrayal of elevators in films.

Karsten Temme, co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer at Pivot Bio, explores how the microbiome could transform agriculture. He discusses the environmental challenges of synthetic fertilizers and the promise of gene editing to enhance soil microbes for better nitrogen fixation. Karsten highlights innovations that improve crop yields and resilience, emphasizing sustainability and the critical role of beneficial microbes in farming. His insights showcase a future where agricultural biotechnology leads to more efficient and eco-friendly practices.

Jennifer Holmgren, CEO of LanzaTech, specializes in converting pollution into valuable fuels. She discusses the innovative process of transforming carbon emissions into ethanol using bacteria. The conversation dives into the economic viability and scaling challenges of sustainable fuel production. Holmgren also addresses the role of sustainable aviation fuels in reducing emissions, and the importance of supportive policies for new energy solutions. Her optimism for sustainable energy shines through, highlighting local economies and innovative practices.