67 episodes

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.

Support us on Patreon and receive exclusive content and benefits.

Earthlings 2.0 Podcast Lisa Ann Pinkerton

    • Technology
    • 4.8 • 16 Ratings

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.

Support us on Patreon and receive exclusive content and benefits.

    #67: The Path to a Green Cement Future

    #67: The Path to a Green Cement Future

    Hello Earthlings! In this week’s episode, we dive deep into one of the most carbon-intensive industries on the planet: cement production. Cement is a crucial component of concrete, the second most consumed material on Earth after water, and its production accounts for approximately 8% of global carbon emissions.
    Our host Lisa Ann is joined by Ryan Gilliam, CEO and co-founder of Fortera, a company at the forefront of the green cement revolution. Ryan shares his journey from a PhD in fuel cell design to becoming a leader in the clean tech industry. Fortera’s innovative technology transforms traditional cement production processes, significantly reducing carbon emissions while leveraging existing infrastructure.
    Learn about the history of cement, its environmental impact, and how Fortera’s low-carbon cement solutions can potentially change the landscape of the industry.
    Restoring our faith in humanity this week is the remarkable achievement of two high school seniors from New Orleans, Kelsey Johnson and Nakia Jackson. These students made a groundbreaking mathematical discovery by finding a new proof for the Pythagorean theorem using trigonometry, a feat previously thought impossible by mathematicians for over 2000 years. This accomplishment not only showcases the immense potential of young minds but also serves as a testament to the power of dedication and innovation in overcoming long-standing academic challenges.
    Key Topics: 
    Cement Production and Carbon Emissions: This episode discusses how traditional cement production is highly carbon-intensive, accounting for around 8% of global carbon emissions.Fortera’s Low-Carbon Cement Technology: Ryan Gilliam explains Fortera’s innovative approach to reducing carbon emissions in cement production by using a technology that mimics natural processes.Challenges in Scaling Green Cement: The conversation explores the difficulties and strategies involved in integrating Fortera's technology into existing cement production infrastructure.Future of Sustainable Construction: The episode envisions a future where low-carbon cement solutions are widely adopted, significantly reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry.
     Voices on The Show: Ryan Gilliam,  CEO and co-founder of Fortera  Linkedin
      
    Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
    Web Resources:ForteraLinkedin
    🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  
    Visit our a href="https://earthlingspodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    • 35 min
    #66: Earthlings 2.0 Rerun: Rethinking Reforestation with Grant Canary

    #66: Earthlings 2.0 Rerun: Rethinking Reforestation with Grant Canary

    Hello Earthlings! We’re continuing our summer scheduling with another Earthlings 2.0 rerun: Mast Reforestation with Grant Canary, the visionary CEO behind Mast Reforestation. As of this week, over 1.6 million hectares of forest around the world has been lost to wildfires– and that’s just in 2024 alone! We need these forests to regrow if we want any hope of turning back the worst effects of climate change and that’s why we’re revisiting our conversation with Grant surrounding new technologies and business models that can help ensure forests to regrow.
    Reforestation stands as a powerful weapon in our arsenal against climate change, and Grant passionately elaborates on its transformative impact. Discover the manifold benefits this practice offers to our planet while exploring the cutting-edge technologies Mast Reforestation employs. From pioneering drone applications to boots-on-the-ground strategies, these innovations are pivotal in fortifying our planet's resilience against carbon emissions.
    Our faith in humanity was restored by Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. The Prime Minister has officially declared a marine reserve spanning approximately 300 square miles (or 800 square kilometers), a critical habitat known to be the only place on Earth where sperm whales congregate year-round for breeding purposes. This marine sanctuary, by prohibiting commercial shipping and fishing activities, offers a much-needed refuge for sperm whales. Scientists highlight that this initiative is not only beneficial for these majestic creatures but also plays a vital role in combating the climate crisis due to the essential nutrients that sperm whales contribute to the ocean ecosystem through their deep-water dives. 
    Key Topics: 
    Supply chain challenges in reforestation The Four Pillars of reforestation strategy- sourcing the seed, using software for seed collection organization, growing seeds into seedlings efficiently, and the logistics of planting these seedlings on-siteAdvanced techniques and technologies in reforestation, such as sophisticated greenhouses and software for managing seed collections The future of the world's forests in the face of ongoing climate change and the essential role of reforestation in mitigating its impacts
    Voices on The Show: 
    Grant Canary, CEO of Master ReforestationLinkedIn
    Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
    Web Resources 
    a href="https://www.mastreforest.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    • 34 min
    #65: A Fresh Outlook on Fruit Logistics

    #65: A Fresh Outlook on Fruit Logistics

    Hello Earthlings! In this week’s episode, we once again dive into the pressing issue of food waste, a problem that results in the loss of nearly 50% of produce before it even reaches our plates. We explore how an innovative solution from RYP Labs, co-founded by Moody Soliman, is using biomimicry to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. Moody shares insights into how their bioactive, plant-based stickers mimic natural processes to keep produce fresh longer, reducing waste and helping to address food security challenges.
    We'll also discuss the broader implications of this technology, its applications across different supply chain stages, and how it could significantly impact both developed and developing countries. 
    Restoring Our Faith in Humanity this week is La Linea Vieja’s rooftop farming project in Canada, showcasing how innovative solutions are making a difference in our fight against climate change.
    Key Points
    The Problem of Food Waste: Discussion on the significant amount of produce wasted before reaching consumers and its economic and environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions.Innovative Solutions from RYP Labs: Moody explains how their bioactive, plant-based stickers use biomimicry to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.Application Across Supply Chains: Examination of the effectiveness of RYP Labs’ technology at various stages of the supply chain, with case studies and success stories from global deployments.Impact on Food Security and Climate Change: Exploration of the potential for the technology to address food security issues, particularly in developing countries, and its role in reducing food waste and combating climate change.
    Voices on The Show: Moody Soliman, CEO and co-founder of RYP LabsLinkedin
    Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
    Web Resources:RYP LabsEp #22: The Land of the Lost Food with Lisa Johnson
    🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  
    Visit our website for more episodes!
    Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our website
    Thanks 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...

    • 29 min
    #64: Earthlings 2.0 Rerun: The Magical Solution of Beans with Andy Jarvis

    #64: Earthlings 2.0 Rerun: The Magical Solution of Beans with Andy Jarvis

    Hello Earthlings! For this week’s episode, we’re continuing our summer schedule where we’ll be posting a rerun of a relevant episode every other week. National Eat Your Beans Day falls on July 3rd this year, so we hope you consider the simple legume in your summer menus: beans! Here’s an amazing recipe that’s always a hit as a side to any summer BBQ: Cherry Tomato and White Bean Salad from NYTimes Cooking.
    In this episode, our host Lisa Ann Pinkerton (CEO of Technica Communications), and guest Andy Jarvis (Director of The Bezos Earth Fund) explore the answer to everything… Beans! Join us on this enlightening journey as we delve into the unassuming world of beans and their surprising impact on global health and the environment. In this episode, Andy walks us through the Beans is How campaign from the SDG2 Advocacy Hub. We cover the variances in bean consumption across the globe and explore how these little powerhouses can be pivotal in addressing some of the world’s most pressing food and environmental challenges.
    Discover why regions with lower bean intakes, such as North America, could hold the key to a more sustainable future and how cultural adaptations could make beans a staple in diets worldwide. Also learn about the advancements in agricultural science that are making beans more resilient in the face of climate change and how this could revitalize our soil and minimize fertilizer use.
    Don't miss this compelling episode that promises to change the way you think about the humble bean and its place in our diets and our world.
    In "Restoring Our Faith in Humanity," segment for this episode, we feature Shirley Bellows, a dedicated Canadian gardener whose tireless efforts may have single-handedly rescued the Blue Jay Bean from the brink of extinction! 
    Key  Topics: 
    How promoting increased bean consumption, especially in regions with low consumption like North America, can help address food and environmental challenges.Doubling bean consumption by 2028 could have significant planetary impacts, especially when beans are developed to be more climate-resilient.The importance of bioavailability in nutrition and the potential for revolution in understanding the gut microbiome is highlighted.
    Voices on The Show: 
    Andy Jarvis, Director of the Future of Food at the BezosX: ajarviscali LinkedIn: Andy Jarvis Instagram: beansishow Lisa Ann...

    • 27 min
    #63: Sailing the Silent Seas with Michael Köhler

    #63: Sailing the Silent Seas with Michael Köhler

    Hello Earthlings! For this week’s episode, we’re continuing our summer schedule where we’ll be posting a rerun of a relevant episode every other week. The Earthlings 2.0 team have been dreaming about spending our summers lounging on a quiet, peaceful deck, drinking Mai Tais under a clear sunny, blue sky ever since we heard this episode: Sailing the Silent Seas! 
    In this exciting episode, we set sail into the transformative waters of the marine transport sector, navigating the currents of change towards a sustainable future with zero-emission yachting at the helm. Our guide through this voyage is none other than Michael Köhler, CEO of Silent Yachts, and a visionary who has been steering the solar-powered yacht movement since 2009. His vision was clear: to navigate the world's waters with minimal environmental impact, harnessing the power of the sun to create a silent, serene boating experience that aligns with the urgent need for conservation and sustainability.
    So, fasten your life jackets and prepare to be inspired as we explore the silent revolution transforming marine transport, one solar panel at a time. This episode is not just a conversation; it's a call to action for cleaner seas, greener yachts, and a sustainable future for our planet.
    Restoring Our Faith in Humanity this week is Paolo Fanciulli, an Italian fisherman who is credited with creating the Atlantis of Tuscany in a fight against illegal trawling. Beginning in 2002, he, the Tuscan government, and World Wildlife Fund Italia deployed a strategic formation of 126 underwater cement bollards to ruin the extremely expensive deep sea trawling nets used by the illegal fishing outfits. 
    Key Topics: 
    Energy Transition in Marine Transport: shift from fossil fuels to electric and solar power in marine vessels, highlighting the environmental urgency and potential benefits of clean energy in maritime travel.Innovations in Solar-Powered Yachting: Michael shares his journey with Silent Yachts, from concept to creation of solar-powered yachts, emphasizing the technological innovations and visionary drive behind sustainable marine design.Sustainable Sailing Experience: Lisa Ann and Michael discuss the benefits of solar yachting, including silent navigation, renewable energy generation, and the luxurious slow travel experience, underscoring its positive impact on the environment and boating lifestyle.Future of Zero-Emission Marine Transport: Michael talks about the impact of solar-powered yachting on the marine industry and environment, considering market trends, customer profiles, and the growth potential for solar yacht sales, while addressing the sector's challenges and opportunities in embracing sustainability.
    Voices on The Show: 
    Michael Köhler, CEO of Silent YachtsLinkedIn 
    Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann...

    • 36 min
    #62: Diving Deep with DNA Today

    #62: Diving Deep with DNA Today

    Hello Earthlings! For this week’s episode, we talk with Kira Dineen, host of the award-winning podcast DNA Today, who sheds light on the incredible advancements in genetic research. From personalized medicines tailored to your genome to the ethical dilemmas of embryo selection in IVF, Kira provides a comprehensive look into the future of healthcare.
    Join us as we discuss the implications of CRISPR technology, the promise of precision medicine, and the potential of whole genome sequencing. We also tackle the ethical considerations surrounding genetic advancements, ensuring that the benefits of this research are accessible to all.
    Learn how genetic research is poised to revolutionize healthcare and how 22 years later, the movie Gattaca (1997) is more relevant than ever. 
    In Restoring Our Faith in Humanity, we’re spotlighting conservationist Ripi Yanur Fajar and his friend, who spotted a big cat in a community plantation. Their discovery led to the identification of a hair strand with a 97.8% similarity to the long-extinct Javan tiger, suggesting that this magnificent creature may still roam the island. 
    Key Points
    Implications of CRISPR Technology: Steve emphasizes the need for high-quality carbon offset standards to ensure genuine and measurable emissions reductions.Personalized Medicines Revolutionizing Healthcare: Learn how personalized medical treatments based on your genome are revolutionizing healthcare. Ethical Dilemmas in Embryo Selection: Kira and Lisa Ann talk about the ethical implications of trait selection in IVF. 
    Voices on The Show: Kira Dineen, host of DNA Today Podcast Linkedin DNA Today Podcast 
    Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
    Web Resources:DNA Today PodcastDNA Today Ep: #110 Gattaca, 20 years later DNA Today Ep: #231 ChatGPT and AI In Genetics with Daniel Uribe
    🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  
    Visit our website for more episodes!
    Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our website
    Thanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re...

    • 39 min

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5
16 Ratings

16 Ratings

AdamFlaherty ,

Great message and fascinating topics

I LOVE the notion that despite how insignificant we may feel, that every individual has the power to make (or contribute) to positive changes. Super fascinating episodes. I highly recommend subscribing!

Ads explicit ,

Informative and well thought out

Really enjoying this podcast! It’s well produced, informative and entertaining. Looking forward to more!

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