Podcast
Leaders on a Mission
Hosted by Simon Leich · EN
Discussions with leaders with a clear mission of creating a healthier world in today’s most innovative startups across FoodTech, AgTech (Agritech), Synbio, Sustainability, Climate Tech, and Clean Tech. Learn more about precision fermentation, cellular agriculture, alternative proteins, crop protection, biologicals, protein expression systems, carbon capture, plant health, precision agriculture, bioinformatics, human nutrition and what it takes to successfully scale your business in this budding sector.
150episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How Carbon Capture is Breathing New Life into Coca-Cola
Sep 11, 202400:41:32Tap to summarizeCEO Rory Brown explains how Airhive are using CO2 capture technology to reduce the carbon footprints of major brands like Coca-Cola.The UK-based green tech company is revolutionizing the world of direct air capture. Airhive has developed a cutting-edge fluidized bed system that can efficiently removes CO2 from air on an industrial scale. 🥤But the story doesn't stop there. Airhive has forged a groundbreaking partnership with global beverage giant Coca-Cola, using its carbon capture technology to carbonate drinks. This innovative approach not only reduces the company's carbon footprint but also provides a sustainable, recycled source of the gas essential for their fizzy beverages. Hear Rory's inspiring journey, from his background in conflict resolution to his passion for tackling climate change through the removal of carbon dioxide from atmosphere. Learn how his carbon capture company is scaling up its operations, exploring international markets, and navigating the challenges of building a pioneering carbon removal startup. This episode offers a captivating glimpse into the future of carbon removal technology and its potential to transform industries and combat global warming.🎧 Make sure to catch this episode if you’re excited as we are about the development of direct air capture technology!--🌿 Hey Climate Tech enthusiasts! Searching for new podcasts on sustainability? Check out the Leaders on a Mission podcast, where I interview climate tech leaders who are shaking up the industry and bringing us the next big thing in sustainable solutions. Join me for a deep dive into the future of green innovation exploring the highs, lows, and everything in between of pioneering new technologies.Get an exclusive insight into how these leaders started up, their journey and how their cutting edge products will make a real impact. Tune in on…YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadersonamissionNet0Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o41ubdkzChAzD9C53xH82Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leaders-on-a-mission/id1532211726…to listen to the latest episodes!Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:34 Rory Brown’s career path03:57 From conflict resolution to climate advocacy07:13 Founding Airhive09:40 Building a team of chemical engineers11:55 Direct carbon capture technology17:12 Innovation in CO2 capture technology20:49 Carbon catcher development23:20 Vision and key milestones26:38 Scaling and international expansion30:05 Carbon credits31:59 Partnering with Coca-Cola36:18 Innovation, investment, and leadershipUseful links: 👇Airhive’s website: https://www.airhive.earth/Airhive’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airhive/Rory Brown’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rory-brown-621b975/Leaders on a Mission website: https://cs-partners.net/podcasts/Simon Leich’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/executive-talent-headhunter-agtech-foodtech-agrifoodtech-agritech/
Transcribe →Spy on Your Bugs: Environmentally Friendly Insect Control
Sep 3, 202400:43:17Tap to summarizeRobert Fryers’ company, Spotta, are shaking up the pest control world with some seriously cutting-edge tech. In this episode, I chat with him about their not-so-secret methods of eco friendly insect control. Robert takes us on his journey from the medical devices field to becoming a leader in pest control solutions, tackling a $400 billion problem head-on!He shares how his insect control company’s AI-powered sensors are delivering smart, eco-friendly pest solutions—from alerting hotels about bed bugs to bug solutions for forests.Tune in to hear Robert’s take on the challenges, the growth of Spotta, and his forward-thinking vision for the future of pest control solutions and services. This episode is packed with insights for anyone curious about how technology and sustainability are changing professional pest control, insect monitoring, and humane rodent control.So, if you’re looking for a smart, environmentally-friendly solution to those pesky bugs, this one's for you! Tune in to find out more!-- Hey Climate Tech enthusiasts! Searching for new podcasts on sustainability? Check out the Leaders on a Mission podcast, where I interview climate tech leaders who are shaking up the industry and bringing us the next big thing in sustainable solutions. Join me for a deep dive into the future of green innovation exploring the highs, lows, and everything in between of pioneering new technologies.Get an exclusive insight into how these leaders started up, their journey and how their cutting edge products will make a real impact. Tune in on…YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadersonamissionNet0Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o41ubdkzChAzD9C53xH82Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leaders-on-a-mission/id1532211726…to listen to the latest episodes!--Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:41 The career path of Robert Fryers, CEO of Spotta05:48 Insect monitoring technology for agriculture and eco insect control07:11 The company’s innovation in the pest control technology10:23 Using technology to control bedbug infestations in hotels14:40 Using technology to control insect infestation in challenging environments17:13 Precise targeting of pests, reducing chemicals, and lowering costs22:09 The importance of actionable change25:17 Scaling and visions and goals for the future28:45 Business growth and investment strategies31:09 The best business model from an investor viewpoint36:05 The biggest challenges and future plansUseful links: Spotta’s website: https://www.spotta.co/Spotta’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spottacambridge/Robert Fryers’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-fryers/Leaders on a Mission website: https://cs-partners.net/podcasts/Simon Leich’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/executive-talent-headhunter-agtech-foodtech-agrifoodtech-agritech/
Transcribe →Sustainable Packaging Solutions: Saving Earth, One Box at a Time!
Aug 27, 202400:40:55Tap to summarizeHey Climate Tech enthusiasts! Searching for new podcasts on sustainability? Check out the Leaders on a Mission podcast, where I interview climate tech leaders who are shaking up the industry and bringing us the next big thing in sustainable solutions. Join me for a deep dive into the future of green innovation exploring the highs, lows, and everything in between of pioneering new technologies.Get an exclusive insight into how these leaders started up, their journey and how their cutting edge products will make a real impact. Tune in on…YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadersonamissionNet0Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o41ubdkzChAzD9C53xH82Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leaders-on-a-mission/id1532211726…to listen to the latest episodes!Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:32 Peter’s career development, failure, and personal growth08:58 TemperPack and its sustainable packaging solutions14:48 What drew Peter to TemperPack?16:48 Plastic displacement and cold chain engineering21:24 The environmental impact of Styrofoam24:09 The importance of learning for a CEO26:59 Peter’s experience in the renewable energy industry33:22 Running a mission-driven company with sustainability at its core38:05 Company's innovative culture and valuesUseful links: TemperPack’s website: https://www.temperpack.com/TemperPack’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/temperpack/Peter Wells’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petergwells/Leaders on a Mission website: https://cs-partners.net/podcasts/Simon Leich’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/executive-talent-headhunter-agtech-foodtech-agrifoodtech-agritech/
Transcribe →Combat Microplastics: Discover Biodegradable Innovations
Aug 20, 202400:41:45Tap to summarizeHarshal Chokhawala, the CEO of ZymoChem, breaks down their exciting solutions to microplastics. In this episode, we explore ZymoChem’s groundbreaking efforts to decarbonize the production of everyday materials, providing real solutions to microplastics in the ocean, our bodies and the earth. 🧪 Harshal takes us on his journey from a young chemist fascinated by the magic of chemistry to a pioneer in using enzymes and microbes as nature’s own catalysts. He shares how ZymoChem is crafting bio-based, biodegradable innovations designed to replace harmful materials like superabsorbent polymers, offering a promising alternative that can significantly reduce microplastic pollution and even help in ending microplastics altogether. You'll be inspired by Harshal's passion for entrepreneurship, his strategic insights on scaling a startup, and his dedication to fostering a strong, mission-driven company culture. 🎧 This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of sustainable materials and the visionary leaders who are creating effective solutions for microplastic pollution.--🌿 Hey Climate Tech enthusiasts! Searching for new podcasts on sustainability? Check out the Leaders on a Mission podcast, where I interview climate tech leaders who are shaking up the industry and bringing us the next big thing in sustainable solutions. Join me for a deep dive into the future of green innovation exploring the highs, lows, and everything in between of pioneering new technologies.Get an exclusive insight into how these leaders started up, their journey and how their cutting edge products will make a real impact. Tune in on…YouTube: / @leadersonamissionnet0 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o41ubd...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...…to listen to the latest episodes!--Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:40 Harshal Chokhawala education and career journey06:40 How ZymoChem is ending fossil fuels09:56 Developing biodegradable diapers12:25 What to understand before investing16:06 Entrepreneurship challenges and learnings25:11 Commercializing the product and bringing it to the market30:22 How carbon-saving technology scales businesses32:08 Decarburization in the chemical industry37:09 Building a strong company culture
Transcribe →Household Waste to Plastic Alternative: Solving the Plastic Crisis
Aug 13, 202400:45:04Tap to summarizeImagine turning everyday trash into a sustainable alternative to plastic. In this episode, I sit down with Albert Douer, CEO of UBQ Materials, to explore how his company is revolutionizing waste management and tackling the global plastic crisis. Albert shares the journey behind UBQ’s innovative approach, from overcoming skepticism to building trust in new technologies. Learn how UBQ is transforming household waste into valuable materials, creating a ripple effect that could reshape industries worldwide. Join us for a deep dive into the future of sustainable solutions and the challenges of pioneering new technologies.Tune in to discover how UBQ is making the world a greener place, one ton of waste at a time.Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:00 Albert Douer’s journey in addressing plastic waste05:36 Transforming polystyrene foam into school supplies07:44 UBQ Materials: Recycling 100% of black bag waste13:07 Revolutionary recycling technology17:03 The UBQ Matrix: How it works21:24 UBQ’s plastic alternatives in various industries26:31 Scaling sustainable tech: Challenges and lessons32:30 New Holland facility processing 110,000 tons of waste33:59 The value of strong partnerships and investors38:08 Educating potential customers on UBQ’s impact42:18 Economic competitiveness and growth potential
Transcribe →Powering the Future with Innovative Battery Solutions
Aug 6, 202400:39:34Tap to summarizeEver wondered what it takes to scale a battery manufacturing company from one gigawatt to five in just five years? In this episode of Leaders on a Mission, I sit down with Priyadarshi Panda, CEO of the International Battery Company, to explore the transformative power of energy storage technology.Priyadarshi shares his vision of leading the global energy transition through manufacturing excellence and innovation. We delve into the company's ambitious goals, including scaling from one gigawatt to five gigawatts within five years, and their roadmap to reach up to 20 gigawatts in the next decade.We also discuss the critical role of patient and collaborative capital in building long-term tech giants, and the importance of strategic, step-by-step execution in achieving these monumental goals. Tune in to hear how the International Battery Company is setting the stage for a sustainable future and revolutionizing the way we think about energy storage.Timestamps:00:00 Intro 00:43 Priyadarshi Panda’s Education and Career Journey 06:40 Vision and Goals of the International Battery Company 10:12 Designing for an Ignored and Neglected Customer Base 16:18 Limitations of Current Battery Technology and New Approaches 23:00 Major Influences Shaping Priyadarshi’s Thinking 26:49 Pilot Facility in South Korea 29:58 Plans to Build a Gigafactory in India and Future Plans 33:07 Key Factors Contributing to IBC's Success
Transcribe →Pioneering the Future of Food with 3D-Printed Cultured Meat
Jul 30, 202400:40:59Tap to summarizeIs 3D-printed meat the future of our food? In this episode of Leaders on a Mission, I sit down with Arik Kaufman, CEO and Founder of Steakholder Foods, to delve into the fascinating world of cultured meat. Arik shares his insights on the industry's rapid evolution, from its nonexistence just a few years ago to the cutting-edge technology driving it today.We explore the significant hurdles faced in scaling cultured meat production, including the high costs inherited from the pharmaceutical industry and the technological challenges of 3D printing a steak that tastes just like the real thing. Arik also discusses the financial strategies required to survive in the market, comparing public and private funding, and the crucial role of government support in ensuring the industry's growth and sustainability.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of food, sustainability, and innovation. Don't miss it!Timestamps:00:00 Intro02:04 Arik’s professional journey04:01 Starting a company to create 3D meat07:15 Vision and goals for the Steakholder Foods09:31 Developing cost-effective cultured meat technology13:57 Challenges of a cultured meat producing company17:21 Pros and cons of being a public company20:20 Culture meat industry requires mature support22:34 Countries that are supported of cultured meat production23:25 The fear of a potentially disruptive technology27:26 What would Arik do differently when he started?28:59 Commercializing 3D food printing technology31: 15 Future plans and strategic partnerships33:11 From B-to-C to B-to-B business model34:16 Easy integrations with the factories36:15 Competition and challenges of being a CEO39:35 The industry's potential, improved products, and market evolution
Transcribe →AI to the Rescue: How Allison Wolff & Vibrant Planet are Battling Forest Fires and Climate Change
Jul 23, 202400:39:13Tap to summarizeHow can technology solve the wildfire crisis and save our forests?In this episode of Leaders on a Mission, I talk with Allison Wolff, CEO of Vibrant Planet, about leveraging technology to tackle the wildfire crisis and preserve our forests. Allison shares insights into her team's innovative strategies, from AI-driven wildfire management to conserving biodiversity and water sources.We also explore the history and current state of Western US woodlands and the role of top tech experts from companies like Meta in addressing climate change.Don't miss this inspiring conversation on the power of technology in forest conservation. #TechForGood #ForestConservation #WildfireManagement #ClimateActionTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction03:15 - Allison Wolff's career journey10:45 - Tech-driven solutions for wildfire management20:30 - The rise and fall of the Western US woodlands30:00 - Transforming bureaucratic systems with top tech experts40:45 - Future goals and vision for Vibrant Planet
Transcribe →Transforming Old Industries with AI, Satellite Tech, and a decarbonization strategy: with Corrado DeGasperis, Exec Chair & CEO of Comstock Inc
Jul 16, 202400:45:29Tap to summarizeHow is AI and innovation transforming the mining industry?In this episode of Leaders on a Mission, I'm joined by Corrado De Gasperis, CEO of Comstock, a trailblazer in the mining industry who is leveraging AI and cutting-edge technologies to drive sustainability and efficiency. Corrado shares his insights on pioneering breakthrough innovations that have the potential to make a global impact.We dive into Comstock's rigorous selection process for high-impact technologies, focusing on those that promise both technological readiness and economic feasibility. From renewable water treatment generating clean hydrogen to advancements in material sciences and AI, Comstock is at the forefront of transformative innovation in mining and beyond.Corrado also highlights the crucial criteria for successful innovation, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative and logical approach over hierarchical and rigid structures. He provides a fascinating glimpse into the future, discussing the potential revolutions in quantum computing and neural computing that could drive unprecedented progress.Tune in to hear Corrado De Gasperis's optimistic vision for the future and learn how Comstock is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in climate tech and the mining industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, sustainability, and global impact. Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:22 Two key factors that shaped Corrado professionally04:53 Fixing and transforming industrial companies10:17 Committing to de-carbonization15:04 Three different businesses within Comstock18:49 Cooperation with Gen Matt in launching a satellite21:44 Using AI to analyze satellite data for geological exploration23:43 The Company's exceptional team of experts27:29 Investing in early-stage tech companies with potential for global impact31:18 Evaluating the technology readiness and economic feasibility before investing36:05 Future innovation and de-carbonization goals for Comstock40:57 Attracting public and private equity investors
Transcribe →Breakthrough in Hydrogen Powder Storage Technology - Baruch Halpert, CEO of Electriq Global
Jul 9, 202400:40:40Tap to summarizeHydrogen's potential is vast, but so are the hurdles. Baruch Halpert, CEO of Electriq Global, joins me on this week’s Leaders on a Mission to dive into their cutting-edge innovative hydrogen carrier, which acts like coffee powder for a coffee machine. This groundbreaking solution simplifies the storage, transport, and use of hydrogen in off-grid applications, making green hydrogen more accessible and practical.Baruch shares his unique analogy of starting a business being like leveling up in a video game, where each challenge becomes more complex. Electriq is currently focusing on gaining commercial traction and achieving product-market fit, specifically in replacing diesel generators for backup power in critical sectors like data centers and hospitals.Emphasizing the importance of practicality, Baruch advises against falling in love with technology itself, but rather focusing on its reliability and cost-effectiveness. Electriq ensures their systems meet the critical needs of users who depend on dependable emergency power solutions.Tune in to hear how Baruch Halpert and Electriq are leading the way in sustainable energy innovation. Discover the insights and strategies driving their success in the green hydrogen market.Timestamps:01:56 Baruch Halpert and his career path06:29 Getting very early or very late into the game08:46 Investing in hydrogen energy15:35 Electriq Global and benefits of storing hydrogen as powder21:19 Developing technology for releasing hydrogen from the powder25:36 The challenge of getting commercial traction27:41 Data centers as a good product market fit32:44 Scaling the technology - market demand and geopolitical factors37:13 The challenge of hiring talent for innovative projects
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