Global Tales of Carbon Transition

Erik Rakhou, Joachim von Scheele, Oghosa Erhahon, Jaqueline Pinto.

Global Tales of Carbon Transition is a fortnightly interview podcast that puts real-world decarbonisation stories front and center. Each episode brings you inside boardrooms, factories, trading floors, and policy forums to hear directly from the people turning climate promises into practical action. What we cover Industrial technologies that cut emissions today: green steel, zero-methane LNG, digital twins for district heatPolicy shifts that reshape trade and supply chains—from carbon border rules to hydrogen incentivesFinancing models that turn pilot projects into bankable assetsRegional spotlights that show how the energy transition plays out in Europe, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the AmericasWhy we do it Decarbonisation is often discussed in lofty targets and distant deadlines. We focus on the here-and-now choices that executives, engineers, and regulators face every day. By sharing their successes and setbacks, we aim to help listeners see the transition not as a buzzword but as a series of solvable problems. Who you’ll hear Erik Rakhou – former BCG energy strategist turned hydrogen investorJoachim von Scheele – Global Commercialisation Director at LindeOghosa Erhahon – sustainability advocate and producer who keeps the conversation groundedJaqueline Pinto – energy lawyer researching hydrogen valleys (joined in Season 2)Together they balance strategic foresight with practitioner detail, ending every episode with a “Coffee-Machine Takeaway” you can share in sixty seconds.

  1. Will there really be a hydrogen economy?

    11/05/2025

    Will there really be a hydrogen economy?

    Welcome to the final episode of Season 2 of the Global Tales of Carbon Transition (GTCT) podcast, your guide to the most important stories shaping the global shift to a low-carbon future. In this special wrap-up, we reflect on the season and revisit one of the year’s most anticipated debates: Will there really be a hydrogen economy? Moderated by Andy Critchlow, Head of News @S&P Global Commodity Insights debate took place on 29 October 2025. Recorded during World Hydrogen Week 2025 and the debate brought together two leading voices, Michael Liebreich, Founder of Bloomberg New Energy Finance, and Erik Rakhou, GTCT co-host and author of Touching Hydrogen’s Future: Tour Around the Globe. This conversation explores optimism versus realism in the future of hydrogen and the path toward decarbonization. Thank you to Andy Critchlow, Head of News @ S&P Global Commodity Insights, Lucy Rankin and the World Hydrogen Leaders www.worldhydrogenweek.com team for the organisation.Sponsor: A big thank you to our sponsor Rakhou Associates, https://rakhou.com/ for sponsoring this episode of Global Tales of Carbon Transition Hosts: Joachim von Scheele, Joachim von Scheele | LinkedIn; Erik Rajhou, Erik Rakhou | LinkedIn; Oghosa Erhahon, Oghosa Erhahon | LinkedIn; and Jaqueline Pinto Jaqueline Pinto | LinkedIn, http://theresadn.eu Erik Rakhou underscores hydrogen’s vital role in decarbonization and resilience, citing progress across key regions. Michael Liebreich counters with realism, pointing to cost and physics limits while urging focus on electrification, innovation, and fair carbon pricing. Closing Thoughts: The hosts close a season spanning climate jobs, methane, geopolitics, and hydrogen, reminding us that true decarbonization demands diversity, innovation, and shared opportunity. Special Thanks Andy Critchlow (Moderator, S&P Global Commodity Insights)Michael Liebreich & Erik Rakhou (Debate Guests)S&P Global for hosting the live debate at World Hydrogen Week 2025State of Play of H2 The European hydrogen market landscape? Listen & Subscribe Follow Global Tales of Carbon Transition wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by whatspodcasting.net

    1h 15m
  2. From Quantity to Quality: The Inocel Hydrogen Story

    10/31/2025

    From Quantity to Quality: The Inocel Hydrogen Story

    Broadcast live from World Hydrogen Week in Copenhagen, hosts Jacqueline, Eric, Joachim, and Oghosa return for another dynamic conversation on Global Tales of Carbon Transition. In this episode, they sit down with Jessica Horn, Business Developer at INOCEL, to explore how a father–daughter journey from the Arctic led to one of Europe’s most exciting hydrogen technology ventures. Jessica recounts how her father, world explorer Mike Horn, witnessed the visible effects of climate change during an expedition across the Arctic and decided to act. Together, they sought to build a hydrogen-powered vehicle for the legendary Dakar Rally, which ultimately sparked the founding of INOCEL, a company now pioneering high-performance hydrogen fuel cells for mobility, industry, and energy applications. From powering off-road races to enabling clean energy at ports and major events, this conversation captures the spirit of innovation, persistence, and collaboration driving the next phase of hydrogen adoption worldwide. Key Takeaways The Birth of INOCEL: How an Arctic expedition and the will to act on climate change sparked a breakthrough hydrogen company.Hydrogen Mobility Reimagined: Why high-power, responsive fuel cells are critical for heavy-duty vehicles, industrial machinery, and marine use.From Hype to Purpose: The global hydrogen narrative is shifting from theoretical discussions to tangible use cases and scalable solutions.Simplifying Regulation: The call for global alignment and simplified frameworks to help innovators and adopters move faster.Collaboration Over Competition: A shared vision emerging across the sector—progress through partnership, not rivalry. Topics Covered Founding journey of INOCELHydrogen mobility and stationary applicationsRegulatory and safety challengesEvent and port decarbonizationGlobal collaboration for clean energy innovation

    29 min
  3. S2-Ep6- Hydrogen - From Hype to Hope with Marina Marina Hritsyshyna

    10/25/2025

    S2-Ep6- Hydrogen - From Hype to Hope with Marina Marina Hritsyshyna

    Live from Copenhagen at World Hydrogen Week, hosts Jaqueline, Eric, Joachim, and Oghosa return for Season Two of the Global Tales of Carbon Transition Podcast. In this episode, they sit down with Marina Hritsyshyna, a hydrogen regulation specialist and lawyer, to unpack the complex but fascinating evolution of hydrogen in the global energy mix from Europe’s regulatory frameworks to Asia’s fast-rising influence and America’s pragmatic shifts. Marina shares her personal journey from building wind farms in Ukraine to advising on renewable hydrogen regulation in the EU and Germany. Together, the hosts and Marina explore questions around RFMBOs, low-carbon vs. renewable hydrogen, and the fine balance between over-regulation and market growth. The conversation weaves through: Why the EU remains a key player despite growing competition from AsiaHow India’s coal-based grid complicates hydrogen export ambitionsThe future of certification and life-cycle emissions standardsThe need for pragmatism and dialogue in EU regulationWhether hydrogen will stay in Europe’s top three energy vectorsAnd ultimately, how optimism can coexist with complexity in the global energy transitionThe episode closes on a hopeful note: that even amid regulation fatigue and geopolitical uncertainty, collaboration, innovation, and steady dialogue will define the next chapter of hydrogen’s story. Topics Covered Renewable vs. low-carbon hydrogenEuropean regulatory frameworks (RFMBOs, CBAM, Clean Industrial Deal)Global hydrogen market dynamics (EU, US, Asia)Certification and life-cycle assessmentPolicy-industry dialogue in the energy transition Key Takeaways The EU’s hydrogen regulation remains central to its decarbonization agenda, but balance and flexibility are essential.Asia’s role, particularly that of China and India, is growing, but regulatory alignment with EU standards remains a significant hurdle.The dialogue between policymakers, industry, and innovators must deepen to achieve practical progress.The definition of “low-carbon hydrogen” is evolving, signaling a shift toward inclusivity and market realism.Hydrogen will likely integrate into broader energy systems, alongside renewables, nuclear, and CCUS, rather than exist alone.

    29 min
  4. S2- Ep 5- Carbon Markets, Cracking the Carbon Code with Joss

    07/13/2025

    S2- Ep 5- Carbon Markets, Cracking the Carbon Code with Joss

    In this episode, we dive deep into the rapidly evolving world of carbon markets, the EU’s ambitious 2040 climate target, and the real-world implications for businesses, governments, and the planet. Our guest, Joss, a climate justice advocate and carbon policy expert from the Netherlands, brings clarity, wit, and an insider’s view on how flexibility, regulation, and innovation are shaping the future of emissions reductions. Together Joss unpacks the EU’s carbon strategies, explains why the 3% offset rule matters, challenges the pros and cons of CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), and offers actionable insights for companies trying to navigate and invest in sustainable supply chains. Key Topics Covered: EU Climate Targets: What the 2040 goal of 90% emissions reduction really means → How cap-and-trade remains a cornerstone of European policy → The role of residual emissions and carbon removals Resources & Mentions: Colanthesis (Joss’s organization)EU ETS & 2040 Target PolicyArticle 6 of the Paris AgreementCBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism)Voluntary Carbon Market Standards (VERRA, Gold Standard) Sponsor: A big thank you to our sponsor Rakhou Associates, https://rakhou.com/Hosts: Joachim von Scheele, Joachim von Scheele | LinkedIn; Erik Rajhou, Erik Rakhou | LinkedIn; Oghosa Erhahon, Oghosa Erhahon | LinkedIn; and Jaqueline Pinto Jaqueline Pinto | LinkedIn, http://theresadn.euThis Podcast was produced by whatspodcasting.net the makers of pllugg.com

    35 min
  5. S2- EP3- Methane, Money & the Mission for a Cleaner Grid

    06/01/2025

    S2- EP3- Methane, Money & the Mission for a Cleaner Grid

    This Episode is featuring Ely Sandler, research fellow at Harvard’s Belfer Center, and Olivia Azadegan, senior energy manager at the Global Methane Hub. They trace their personal paths into decarbonisation and unpack the biggest question facing climate action today: how do we pay for the global energy shift in a multipolar world? Ely makes a compelling case for unleashing private capital arguing that lowering risk and cutting the cost of capital, especially in emerging markets, is the real unlock. Olivia brings a pragmatic, solutions-first perspective, showing how the Global Methane Hub mobilises philanthropy, policy and local partnerships to slash emissions fast. The episode dives deep into methane’s outsized impact, highlighting a rare sweet spot where environmental wins and industry profits align: stopping leaks boosts the climate and the bottom line. Tune in for candid insights, fresh frameworks and practical takeaways for energy leaders, investors and students ready to shape the carbon-neutral future. Sponsor: A big thank you to our sponsor Rakhou Associates, https://rakhou.com/Hosts: Joachim von Scheele, Joachim von Scheele | LinkedIn; Erik Rajhou, Erik Rakhou | LinkedIn; Oghosa Erhahon, Oghosa Erhahon | LinkedIn; and Jaqueline Pinto Jaqueline Pinto | LinkedIn, http://theresadn.euGuests: Ely Sandler https://www.linkedin.com/in/ely-sandler/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_detail_base%3BYfe2pFdiR0qUTZ%2BlaVNUOA%3D%3D and Olivia Azadegan https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-azadegan/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_detail_base%3BYfe2pFdiR0qUTZ%2BlaVNUOA%3D%3DThis Podcast is produced by whatspodcasting.net the makers of pllugg.com

    49 min
  6. S2- Ep2- Nuclear Energy and SMRs

    04/19/2025

    S2- Ep2- Nuclear Energy and SMRs

    Diving deep into the fascinating world of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) with the brilliant Michael Hewitt from ULC Energy. This episode crackles with energy as Michael unravels the SMR mystery – what they are, their history, and how these compact powerhouses fit into the carbon transition puzzle. He breaks down the complexities with ease, explaining how SMRs offer a more efficient, cost-effective, and timely alternative to traditional nuclear plants. Think factory-built modules assembled like LEGOs ingenious! The discussion sparks even more excitement as it explores the potential of SMRs to power data centers (goodbye, dirty energy!), stabilize fragile grids, and even decarbonize those tough industrial sectors. Plus, a mind-blowing revelation: SMRs can team up with renewables to create a clean energy dream team! Michael tackles tough questions about batteries, renewables, and even the fusion dream, offering insightful and realistic perspectives. He sheds light on the evolving financial landscape of nuclear, highlighting the increasing interest from investors and governments alike. Michael's passion for nuclear is infectious, and his call for open minds and embracing solutions resonates deeply. Sponsor: A big thank you to our sponsor Rakhou Associates, https://rakhou.com/Hosts: Joachim von Scheele, Joachim von Scheele | LinkedIn; Erik Rajhou, Erik Rakhou | LinkedIn; Oghosa Erhahon, Oghosa Erhahon | LinkedIn; and Jaqueline Pinto Jaqueline Pinto | LinkedIn, http://theresadn.eu This Podcast is produced by whatspodcasting.net the makers of pllugg.com

    33 min
  7. S2-EP 1: Africa's rising green job opportunity - Shortlist Futures

    03/28/2025

    S2-EP 1: Africa's rising green job opportunity - Shortlist Futures

    Welcome back to Global Tales of Carbon Transition! In our Season 2 premiere, Jacqueline, Eric, and Joachim sit with Ciara Remeshied, Director at Shortlist Futures, to explore Africa’s green job revolution. A staggering 3.3 MILLION new jobs are projected by 2030, primarily in solar, climate-smart agriculture, and the surprisingly massive waste remediation sector! Ciara dives into the nitty-gritty, revealing how these jobs aren't just numbers, but opportunities for economic empowerment, particularly for women. She shares inspiring stories of women gaining skills in solar installation and last-mile delivery, overcoming barriers like access to safety equipment, and maximizing earning potential through innovative training programs. The conversation sparks with insights into community-level impacts, highlighting how mini-grids and demand stimulation can transform lives. Sponsor: A big thank you to our sponsor Rakhou Associates, https://rakhou.com/Hosts: Joachim von Scheele, Joachim von Scheele | LinkedIn; Erik Rajhou, Erik Rakhou | LinkedIn; Oghosa Erhahon, Oghosa Erhahon | LinkedIn; and Jaqueline Pinto Jaqueline Pinto | LinkedIn, http://theresadn.euGuest: Shortlist Futures, https://www.shortlist.net/futures; https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/shortlist-futures; Ciara Marie Remerscheid | LinkedInReports referenced: https://forecasting-green-jobs.mailchimpsites.com/ and The Future of Jobs Report 2025 | World Economic Forumproduced by whatspodcasting.net

    31 min

About

Global Tales of Carbon Transition is a fortnightly interview podcast that puts real-world decarbonisation stories front and center. Each episode brings you inside boardrooms, factories, trading floors, and policy forums to hear directly from the people turning climate promises into practical action. What we cover Industrial technologies that cut emissions today: green steel, zero-methane LNG, digital twins for district heatPolicy shifts that reshape trade and supply chains—from carbon border rules to hydrogen incentivesFinancing models that turn pilot projects into bankable assetsRegional spotlights that show how the energy transition plays out in Europe, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the AmericasWhy we do it Decarbonisation is often discussed in lofty targets and distant deadlines. We focus on the here-and-now choices that executives, engineers, and regulators face every day. By sharing their successes and setbacks, we aim to help listeners see the transition not as a buzzword but as a series of solvable problems. Who you’ll hear Erik Rakhou – former BCG energy strategist turned hydrogen investorJoachim von Scheele – Global Commercialisation Director at LindeOghosa Erhahon – sustainability advocate and producer who keeps the conversation groundedJaqueline Pinto – energy lawyer researching hydrogen valleys (joined in Season 2)Together they balance strategic foresight with practitioner detail, ending every episode with a “Coffee-Machine Takeaway” you can share in sixty seconds.