What's Your Problem?

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.

Kurt House, co-founder and CEO of KoBold Metals, shares insights on revolutionizing the mining industry for the renewable energy transition. He discusses the enormous demand for essential metals like copper and lithium, and how AI and data science are pivotal in discovering these resources. Kurt recounts a significant copper discovery in Zambia, while balancing personal anecdotes from his family trips. He emphasizes the need for innovative exploration techniques and the importance of fostering a supportive culture in mining management.

Dalial Freitak and Annette Kleiser, co-founders of Dalan Animal Health, are pioneering the first vaccine for insects. They dive into the complexities of insect immunology and how maternal exposure to pathogens influences bee immunity. The discussion highlights their innovative oral vaccine for queen bees, aimed at combating the alarming decline in bee populations. They also explore broader implications for agriculture and even potential future applications for shrimp, emphasizing the critical role of bees in food security.

Sean Hunt, co-founder and CTO of Solugen, dives into sustainable chemical production without fossil fuels. He shares how his company innovates by using corn syrup for eco-friendly solutions, transforming the industry. The discussion highlights operational challenges and the push for specialty chemicals amidst market shifts. Hunt reveals insights on the competitive landscape and the impact of a new executive order promoting bio-manufactured chemicals. Additionally, he touches on the intriguing engineering behind customizing products for regional tastes.