The IQT Podcast

Imagine a supply chain built not on smokestacks and solvents, but on cells. A shortage flares, and instead of waiting months for shipments to clear ports, a ten‑day microbial run delivers critical ingredients at home. The same biological tools that ferment beer pull rare earth elements from complex feedstocks—cleanly, quickly, and at cost. That shift is already underway. Host Michelle Rozo sits down with Eugene Chiu, Christina Smolke, and Nathan Ratledge to trace how engineered biology is moving active pharmaceutical ingredient production back to the U.S. and rewiring mineral separation with proteins that can tell neighboring elements apart. The stakes are concrete: fewer single‑point failures, less exposure to geopolitical shocks, and a path to resilient, distributed manufacturing. Together they examine what’s working—and what isn’t—across the ecosystem: startups translating lab wins into commercial runs, investors backing platforms over point solutions, and public agencies funding scale while navigating regulation. They surface the bottlenecks that still slow progress—biomanufacturing infrastructure, inputs like resins, and the need for faster approvals—and outline the policies and partnerships that could unlock capacity at speed. From medicines to minerals, the conversation shows how biology can anchor U.S. industrial strength and why execution now will determine who leads the next era of innovation and security.

A smartphone lights up in your hand. Inside it, rare earth elements and critical minerals quietly power the technology we rely on every day, from defense systems to medical devices. As global supply chains tighten, prices fluctuate, processing concentrates in single regions, and both national security and daily life feel the strain. In this episode of IQT Explains, host Jon Chait, Managing Partner at IQT, talks with Russ Ross, VP of Technology at IQT, and Sahil Tapiwala, CEO of Atomionics, about how critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earths shape the economy, the clean-energy transition, and U.S. security. They follow the path from exploration and feedstock to refining and metallization, revealing where today’s biggest challenges and opportunities lie. The conversation highlights quantum sensing and AI-driven resource mapping, including Atomionics’ use of quantum gravimeters to locate underground mineral deposits faster and more precisely. Learn how strategic investment, recycling innovation, and resilient supply chains can reduce dependency on foreign processing and strengthen U.S. leadership. If you want a clear, accessible look at how technology, business, and science intersect to secure the materials behind modern innovation, this episode connects it all.

Welcome to the IQT Podcast. In this continuation, host Clayton Williams, Managing Director of IQT’s London office, continues the conversation with Lorenz Meier, Co-founder and CEO of Auterion, and Rob Rainhart, Auterion’s Chief Operating Officer. Building on part one, the conversation examines the significant role of drones in modern warfare and defense technology. Highlighting impressive figures—such as Ukraine increasing monthly drone production from 20,000 to 200,000 units and aiming for millions more—this episode investigates the rapid expansion of drone deployment and the innovations driving it. Lorenz recounts his experiences leading operations in Kyiv and how Auterion’s agile engineering and quick iteration have reshaped battlefield dynamics. Rob discusses the global shift in defense strategies influenced by developments in Ukraine, affecting regions from the U.S. and Europe to Taiwan and the broader Indo-Pacific. For those interested in the progression of AI, drones, and defense technology, this episode offers valuable perspectives on innovation in action.

Welcome back to The IQT Podcast. In this episode, Clayton Williams of IQT's London office speaks with Lorenz Meier, co-founder and CEO of Auterion, and Rob Rainhart, Auterion’s Chief Operating Officer. They explore the remarkable evolution of autonomous systems and drone technology — an area that’s rapidly reshaping the future of defense. Lorenz and Rob share the story of how Auterion grew from an open source student project into a powerhouse in drone autonomy. They also offer a unique perspective on how the company has bridged commercial innovation and defense applications, navigating a fast-changing market and shifting global demands. Watch as they unpack the challenges of operating in a dual-use tech space, the regulatory forces at play, and how conflicts like the war in Ukraine have driven urgency and innovation in the drone ecosystem. Whether you’re tracking the future of autonomy or curious about the intersection of startups and defense, this conversation offers an inside look at how Auterion is helping shape what’s next.

Welcome to the IQT Podcast. In this episode of "IQT Explains," we explore asymmetric deterrence — a strategic approach in modern defense that emphasizes quantity, innovation, and resilience over traditional firepower, led by our host, Kevin Schaeffer.  Joining him are Kevin Wepasnick, a senior technology architect and drone systems enthusiast, and Sameer Punyani, a national security expert with extensive experience at the Department of Defense (DoD). Together, they examine the transition from costly, singular defense systems to networks of affordable, adaptable technologies. The discussion covers topics such as domestic manufacturing challenges, battery supply chains, and the intricacies of military doctrine and logistics.  This episode highlights the evolving nature of modern warfare and offers insights for technologists, policy analysts, and those interested in national security. Discover how startups, policy developments, and lessons from history and fiction are influencing the future of global security.    Key Takeaways:  - The Power of Many: Asymmetric Deterrence Unpacked  - Manufacturing at Scale: America’s Critical Challenge  - Doctrine and Doctrine: Bridging Rhetoric and Reality  - Interoperability and Modularity: The Path to True Scale  - Startups as Catalysts: The Innovation Engine  - Winning Through Agility, Not Just Might  - The Cost Imbalance: An Urgent Warning  - The Art of the Possible: Our Call to Action    Featured in this episode:  Kevin Schaeffer  Senior Vice President, Advanced Systems Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-schaeffer-39a4404/   Kevin Wepasnick Senior Technology Architect, Advanced Systems LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwepasnick/    Sameer Punyani  Senior Director, Growth Partnerships LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sameer-punyani-69b6a85/      IQT Website: https://www.iqt.org/  

Welcome to another episode of The IQT Podcast! Today, we’ll examine the potential future of wireless technology and how it can enhance national security. Our guests, Dr. Tom Rondeau, Principal Director for the DoD’s FutureG Office, and Dr. Nate Roberts, Senior Technology Architect at IQT, will discuss the evolution from 1G to 5G and explore the exciting possibilities of 6G, including its role in digital transformation and advanced sensing capabilities. Tune in to discover how these advancements will shape the future of telecommunications and what lies ahead for 6G technology.   Key Topics - Transition from 1G to 5G Technology - Developments in 6G Technology - Future of Wireless Communication - Economic Implications of Wireless Advancements - Considerations for National Security - Advanced Sensing Capabilities - Innovations in Telecommunications   Featured in this Episode Pat Mitchell Research Manager LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-j-mitchell/   Dr. Thomas Rondeau Principal Director for FutureG LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasrondeau/   Dr. Nathan Roberts Senior Technology Architect LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertsnathan/

Welcome to another episode of The IQT Podcast! In "IQT Explains: Generative AI for Security," we explore the transformative applications of generative AI across various industries, with a special focus on enhancing national security and cybersecurity. This conversation, hosted by Katie Gray, Senior Partner, will cover market trends, use cases, and risks associated with generative AI. Tune in as our guests, Will Howerton, Principal, and Rob Mills, Senior Technology Architect, share their insights.   Takeaways - Examination of Generative AI and Security - Enterprise Implementation and Investment - Applications of Generative AI in the Field of Security - Augmentation vs. Replacement of Analysts - Red Teaming Utilizing Generative AI - Adversarial Applications of Generative AI - Future Projections for Generative AI and Security - Implications for the National Security Sector   Featured in this Episode Katie Gray Senior Partner LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ktgray/   Will Howerton Principal Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-howerton   Rob Mills Senior Technology Architect LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-mills

Welcome to the third and final part of IQT Explains: Biotech and Investments. Today, our guests Dr. Jess Dymond and Dr. Lewis Rubinson will share their forecasts for the future of biotechnology. They will discuss sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, and how advancements in these areas can enhance national resilience. Tune in to learn where biotech is heading next and how these future innovations will play a part in preserving our safety and security.   Key Topics - Global Health and Biosecurity - Advancements in Neurotechnology - Paradigm-Shifting Technologies - Creative Platform-Based Solutions - Climate Change and Sustainability - Role of Biotechnology in Infrastructure - Challenges in Bioproduction   Featured in this Episode Farid Nemri Program Manager LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faridnemri/   Dr. Jessica Dymond VP Technology LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-dymond   Dr. Lewis Rubinson, MD, PhD VP Technology LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewis-rubinson

Welcome to another episode of IQT Explains! In Part 2 of our Biotech and Investments series, we continue to explore IQT's cutting-edge work in biotechnology, focusing on our more recent investment activity and breaking down the latest developments in this ever-evolving domain. Our guests, Eugene Chiu and Dr. Michelle Rozo, delve into IQT's unique architectural approach, advancements in mRNA vaccines, gene editing, and AI-enabled biotech, as well as the challenges and opportunities ahead. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the current biotech landscape and its impact on national security.   Key Topics - Global Competition and U.S. Response - Latest Developments and Innovations - Challenges and Opportunities Ahead - Geopolitical Influence - Future Prospects and Potential Risks   Featured in this Episode Farid Nemri Program Manager LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faridnemri/   Eugene Chiu Senior Partner, Investments LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenechiu   Dr. Michelle Rozo VP Technology LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rozo

Welcome to The IQT Podcast! In this episode, we explore IQT's origin story in biotech. Host Farid Nemri, along with guests Dr. Megan Anderson and Dr. Kevin O'Connell, discuss IQT's strategic investments in the bio sector, spanning from the post-9/11 era to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dive into the history of the B.Next practice, IQT's investing methodology, and the technologies developed for national security and pandemic readiness. Interested in learning more? Tune back in for next week’s episode where we’ll pick up with IQT’s present-day biotech investing strategy.   Featured in this Episode Farid Nemri Program Manager LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faridnemri/   Dr. Megan Anderson Executive Vice President LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-anderson-408a639/   Dr. Kevin O'Connell SVP Technology LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-o-connell-3885695/

Welcome to another episode of IQT Explains! Today, we are joined by Dr. Yan Zheng, IQT’s Chief of Staff, and Michael Falcon, Investment Partner, to discuss the importance of microelectronics. Microelectronics are crucial to modern technology, impacting devices we rely on every day — cell phones, computers, automotives, and medical systems. U.S. manufacturing has declined due to offshoring, but initiatives like the CHIPS Act aim to bring production back. Today, we’ll discuss the importance of onshoring production as well as investing in emerging trends like advanced packaging (chiplets), photonics (light-based electronics), and using materials beyond silicon like gallium nitride and silicon carbide. Join us for a conversation on how the U.S. can maintain leadership in this domain and why doing so is critical to preserving national security.   Key Topics Supply Chain Complexity & Innovation Future of Microelectronics Innovation Microelectronics Significance Challenges & Opportunities in Microelectronics Investment and Market Trends   Featured in this Episode Farid Nemri Program Manager LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/faridnemri/   Dr. Yan Zheng IQT Chief of Staff LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/yan-zheng-8aa84b1/   Michael Falcon Investment Partner LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-falcon-1b047/

Welcome back to The IQT Podcast! Today, we dive into the depths of the dataverse. Our guests, Diana Keenan and Hanyu Chwe, shed light on the significance, evolving market trends, and regulatory challenges surrounding commercial data, emphasizing how new data technologies can enhance decision-making across various sectors. This episode explores the increasing prominence of the data economy, fueled by generative AI and driven primarily by financial applications. Companies like Exploding Topics and Domo highlight the staggering volume of daily data production, which is being harnessed for commercial use. Discover the impact on sectors like finance and real estate. Plus, learn how commercial data can be used to enhance national security and fuel technological advancements!   Key Topics - Venture Capital in the Data Space - National Security Relevance - Industry Trends and Data Types - Generative AI and Data Economy - Market Trends and Inflection Points   Featured in this Episode Ari Chadda Data Scientist LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arichadda/   Hanyu Chwe Associate Technology Architect Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanyuchwe/   Diana Keenan Senior Associate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-keenan-cfa/

Join General David Petraeus, renowned retired U.S. army general and former CIA director, as we explore historical conflicts, strategic leadership, and the intersection of technology in modern warfare. From past military engagements to contemporary challenges, this episode promises enlightening insights on conflict evolution and the leadership skills essential for turbulent times. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to pick up a copy of the General’s latest book and New York Times Best Seller, Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine for an even deeper dive into lessons learned over the last 70 years of conflict.   Key Topics: - General Petraeus' military and intelligence background - Impact of historical conflicts on modern warfare - Stakeholder management and decision-making - Learning and adapting military strategies - Rapid iteration in strategic decision-making - Gaza conflict and security challenges   Featured in this Episode - General David Petraeus, U.S. Army General (Ret.) Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidpetraeus/ - Steve Bowsher, CEO of IQT LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-bowsher/   References Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine - https://www.amazon.com/Conflict-Evolution-Warfare-1945-Ukraine/dp/0063293137 David Petraeus on Strategic Leadership - https://www.belfercenter.org/publication/david-petraeus-strategic-leadership

Our host, Vishal Sandesara, is joined by IQT colleagues Grant Whiting and Dan Bocknek to discuss cybersecurity and the importance of enhancing cyber capabilities for future conflicts. They explore the fast-paced nature of cyber warfare, the role of AI and automation, and the significance of quality data. Topics covered include data management, scaling capabilities, partnerships, and the integration of AI-based technology. Tune in to gain insights on adapting to emerging threats and advancing cybersecurity.

Welcome to The IQT Podcast where we explore the fascinating world of technology innovation and national security. In our latest episode, host Vishal Sandesara is joined by esteemed guests Pat Mitchell, Chris Shaw, and Tommaso Melodia. Together, they discuss the complexities of undersea technology and its significance in military, commercial, and scientific realms. The episode highlights challenges that are unique to underwater innovation like the lack of GPS functionality and the need to adapt to a highly pressurized and corrosive environment. Despite this, companies such as Advanced Navigation and Hydronet are making strides in this domain, unlocking new opportunities under the ocean's surface. Listen in to learn more!   Takeaways - Importance of Undersea Innovation - Challenges and Opportunities for Undersea Startups - Integration and Collaboration Between Companies - Global Partnerships and Innovation in Maritime Technology   Featured in this Episode Vishal Sandesara VP, Operations LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals/   Pat Mitchell Research Manager, IQT LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-j-mitchell/ Undersea Innovation Paper - https://short.iqt.org/undersea-innovation   Chris Shaw CEO, Advanced Navigation LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-adnav/   Tommaso Melodia CEO, Hydronet LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommasomelodia/   Chapters 01:53 - Exploring Future Prospects of Undersea Enabling Technologies 04:06 - Looking at the Bigger Picture: Why Is the Undersea Domain Important and Why Is Now a Good Time to Focus On It? 08:07 - Navigating Undersea Challenges: Pressure, Corrosion, and Limitations 11:41 - Addressing Connectivity Challenges in Underwater Environments 12:57 - Solving Challenges and Reducing Costs with Unique Software 17:13 - Adaptable Real-Time Models for Overcoming Underwater Data Limitations 20:14 - Enhancing Navigation Accuracy with Quantum Technology 23:38 - Common Challenges Across the Commercial Market and How To Address Them 28:48 - Bolstering Collaboration and Interoperability in Underwater Technology 30:59 - AUKUS: Trilateral Partnership on Submarine and Tech 33:20 - Thoughts for Policymakers Interested in Promoting Leadership in This Domain

In this episode of The IQT Podcast, Dr. Sarah Sewall delves into the world of critical minerals and the challenges facing the United States' supply chain security. Our guests, Nicole Richards, Nick Myers, and Oliver Gunasekara, share their expertise and innovative approaches to address these challenges. From developing biological solutions for rare earth element separation to utilizing autonomous underwater vehicles for critical mineral extraction, these industry leaders are at the forefront of technology and environmental stewardship. Join us as we explore the importance of domestic supply, responsible mining practices, and the need for government support to ensure a sustainable and secure critical minerals supply chain.   Key Takeaways - Challenges in Critical Mineral Supply Chain Security - Technological Solutions and Applications - Environmental and Societal Impact - Future Prospects and Challenges - Government and International Partnerships   Featured in this Episode Sarah Sewall EVP, National Innovation Policy, IQT Website: https://www.iqt.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsewall/   Nicole Richards CEO, Allonnia Website: https://allonnia.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-richards-3268b07/   Nick Myers CEO, Phoenix Tailings Website: https://phoenixtailings.com/ Linkedin: ​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholaswilliammyers/   Oliver Gunasekara CEO, Impossible Metals Website: https://impossiblemetals.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gunasekara/   Additional Resources - Closing the Critical Mineral Gap: https://assets.iqt.org/pdfs/Critical_Minerals_February_2023_final.pdf/web/viewer.html - Why Will Deep Sea Mining Be Less Expensive Than Traditional Land-based Mining?: https://impossiblemetals.com/blog/why-will-deep-sea-mining-be-less-expensive-than-traditional-land-based-mining/ - Current Status of Deep Sea Mining Regulations: https://impossiblemetals.com/blog/current-status-of-deep-sea-mining-regulations/

In this episode, host Vishal Sandesara and guest Michael Chadwick from IQT Labs discuss maritime innovation in the open source and maker communities. They cover IQT Labs' involvement in the maritime domain, challenges of AI algorithm data collection, and the spillover benefits of open source aerial drone contributions. Tune in as they highlight projects like the AI Sonobuoy, showcasing cutting-edge developments in maritime technology.   Topics Accessibility of Open Source Technology Government Interest in Maritime Technology Advancement Challenges Faced by the Maker Community Data Collection and Labeling for AI Algorithms IQT Labs Initiatives   Featured in this Episode Vishal Sandesara VP, Operations Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals/   Michael Chadwick SVP, Deputy Director, IQT Labs Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-chadwick-37208865/   Mentioned in this Episode MakerBuoy (Wayne Pavalko) https://www.instagram.com/makerbuoy/

In this episode of The IQT Podcast, host Vishal Sandesara leads a discussion on the accelerating venture capital activity in maritime innovation. Guests Diana Keenan, Abi Sivananthan, and Kevin Schaeffer delve into global maritime technology developments and the corresponding investment landscape. The conversation covers the different domains of maritime technology, including surface and subsurface exploration and the evolving market trends driven by advancements in enabling technologies. Tune in to learn all about the potential impact of maritime innovation on national security, commercial applications, and global geopolitics.   Key Topics - Maritime Technology and Investment Landscape - Enabling Technologies in Maritime Innovation - Predictions for Future Developments in Maritime Innovation - Leveraging Commercial Innovation   Featured in this Episode Vishal Sandesara VP, Operations Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals/   Abi Sivananthan Senior Technology Architect, Intelligent Connectivity Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abirami-sivananthan-9b362b23/   Diana Keenan Senior Associate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-keenan-cfa/   Kevin Schaeffer VP, Advanced Systems Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-schaeffer-39a4404/

In this episode of The IQT Podcast, host Steve Bowsher interviews Arun Gupta, a venture capitalist, Adjunct Entrepreneurship Professor at Georgetown University, and author of "Venture Meets Mission." Arun discusses bridging the gap between aspiring entrepreneurs and public service, inspiring the next generation to let mission guide them in their careers. The episode explores attracting talent for national security challenges and the evolving landscape of mission-driven ventures. Tune in to learn more about the dynamic intersection of technology and national security!   Topics Educating Students About Government Service Opportunities The Inspiration Behind “Venture Meets Mission” Lowering the Average Age of the Tech Workforce in Government Leveraging Job Hopping Culture Mission vs. Money   Featured in this Episode Steve Bowsher CEO, IQT Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-bowsher-a039b826/ IQT Website: https://www.iqt.org   Arun Gupta CEO, NobleReach Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arungupta23/  Venture Meets Mission Book: https://www.amazon.com/Venture-Meets-Mission-Aligning-Transform/dp/1503636283 NobleReach Website: https://noblereachfoundation.org/

In this episode of The Intersection, we explore the dynamic realm where innovation meets mission execution. Our usual host and newly appointed CEO, Steve Bowsher, takes the passenger seat this week, allowing IQT’s editorial director, Martin Giles, to take the wheel. With Steve as the interviewee, we get the chance to learn how IQT has been the premier partner trusted to identify, evaluate, and leverage emerging commercial technologies for the national security community for nearly 25 years. Listen in to learn about the enduring success of IQT, the organization’s adept navigation of the intricate landscape of public-private partnerships, and how IQT shapes and deploys emerging technologies for government agencies. Prepare for a captivating discussion on the future of innovation and its profound impact on mission-driven organizations.   Topics Introduction to IQT and its Mission Steve’s Background and Silicon Valley Experience Overcoming Challenges in Connecting the Public and Private Sectors IQT's Impact on Government Agencies Becoming a Global Organization Investment Strategies Trust & Differentiation at IQT Shifting Trends in Supply Chain Management Facilitating Adoption of Technologies Aligning Capital Stacks for Strategic Innovation   Featured in this Episode Martin Giles Editorial Director, IQT Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinpgiles/   Steve Bowsher President & CEO, IQT Profile: https://www.iqt.org/about-iqt/#modal-bio-05788d2f-6741-43c7-86a4-e46c89ab1aa9