Rare Earth Exchanges

Highlights2025 was a year of unprecedented activity in the rare earth sector.The U.S. is recognizing the need for industrial policy in supply chains.Recycling and innovative technologies are crucial for future supply chains.The Pentagon's ban on Chinese magnets is a significant policy shift.Public sentiment is optimistic about Western supply chains rising.The bottleneck in rare earth supply is more about refining than mining.Engagement on social media has increased significantly in the industry.The future of critical minerals is tied to technological advancements.There is a strong need for feedstock in recycling processes.2026 is expected to be a pivotal year for the industry.SummaryIn this milestone 50th episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, hosts Dustin Olsen and Daniel O'Connor, along with guest Justas Valciukas, reflect on the significant trends and events of 2025 in the rare earth and critical minerals sector. They discuss the impact of recent policy changes, the importance of recycling, and the future of supply chains, particularly in relation to China. The episode also highlights audience engagement through a LinkedIn poll and shares favorite moments from past episodes, emphasizing the journey of learning and growth in this evolving industry.Chapters00:00 Celebrating Milestones and New Beginnings01:06 Reflections on 2025: Trends and Changes05:01 The Impact of Policy Changes on Supply Chains10:22 Poll Insights: The Future of Critical Minerals15:10 Recycling and Green Tech: Challenges Ahead27:05 Highlighting Memorable Episodes and Guests

HIGHLIGHTSChara Technologies aims to create rare earth free motors for EVs.The reliance on rare earth elements poses significant supply chain risks.The global market for traction motors is approximately $35 billion.Reluctance motors offer a different method of torque generation compared to traditional motors.Chara's motors are heavier but offer competitive efficiency.Intellectual property in software algorithms is a key competitive advantage.The cost of rare earth magnets constitutes about 40% of motor costs.Chara's motors are projected to be 15-20% cheaper in the long run.The Indian government is increasingly interested in supporting sustainable technologies.Chara aims to be a leader in motor design and manufacturing by 2025.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Dustin and Daniel speak with Bhaktha Keshavachar, CEO of Chara Technologies, about the challenges and innovations in the electric vehicle (EV) motor industry. Bhaktha discusses the reliance on rare earth elements in current motor technologies, the market potential for rare earth-free motors, and the unique approach Chara is taking with reluctance motors. The conversation also covers the company's commercialization strategy, intellectual property considerations, and future growth plans in the context of global supply chain dynamics and sustainability efforts.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Chara Technologies and EV Motors02:51 The Problem with Rare Earth Elements05:49 Market Size and Transition in EV Motors09:05 Understanding Reluctance Motors12:05 Comparing Motor Technologies14:56 Intellectual Property and Competitive Edge17:54 Cost Analysis and Total Cost of Ownership20:57 Supply Chain Resilience and Sourcing23:58 Commercialization and Sales Strategy27:00 Future Vision and Goals for Chara Technologies

HIGHLIGHTSMalaysia has significant reserves of rare earth elements.The country is focusing on sustainable and environmentally friendly extraction methods.Environmental concerns are now prioritized in Malaysia's mining sector.Technological advancements are crucial for the development of the RE sector.Collaboration with international firms is essential for progress.Malaysia's geological diversity offers various types of RE deposits.Awareness of RE potential has increased among local stakeholders.The government is planning to establish a local RE supply chain by 2030.Challenges remain in separating impurities from RE for commercial viability.Future research will focus on innovative and environmentally friendly extraction techniques.SUMMARYIn this episode, Dr. Syed Muhammad discusses the potential of rare earth elements (REE) in Malaysia, highlighting the country's unique geological advantages and the recent shift in focus towards sustainable mining practices. He elaborates on the challenges faced in the extraction process, the importance of environmental considerations, and the growing awareness among stakeholders. Dr. Syed emphasizes the need for technological advancements and collaboration to unlock Malaysia's REE potential and outlines future research directions.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Rare Earth Potential in Malaysia05:02 Understanding Southeast Asia's Rare Earth Resources09:26 Overlooked Potential: Malaysia's Rare Earth Story14:38 Challenges in Malaysia's Rare Earth Sector19:09 Awareness and Environmental Concerns23:52 Future Prospects for Malaysia's Rare Earth Industry27:16 Research Directions and Innovations in Rare Earth Extraction

HIGHLIGHTSTactical Resources focuses on American assets for domestic production.The Peak Project is strategically located in Texas, enhancing supply chain security.Clean processing is a key pillar of Tactical's operational strategy.The demand for rare earths is driven by various tech-enabled industries.Tactical is one of the few near-term solutions for US rare earth supply.The geological advantages of the Peak Project allow for unique processing methods.Tactical's processing is modular and scalable, allowing for flexibility in operations.The SPAC route provides Tactical with a platform to access public markets.Investor confidence will be built through execution and technical milestones.Partnerships in the ecosystem will be crucial for Tactical's growth.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, host Dustin Olsen and co-host Daniel O'Connor engage with Jeet Basi and Kanishka Roy, leaders of Tactical Resources, to discuss the company's strategic vision in the rare earth elements sector. They explore the unique geological advantages of the Peak Project in Texas, the operational insights that set Tactical apart, and the pressing demand for US-sourced rare earths. The conversation also delves into the company's plans to go public via a SPAC, the scalability of their processing methods, and the future outlook for investors in this burgeoning industry.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Tactical Resources and Plum Acquisition04:15 Strategic Vision and Market Positioning10:49 Operational Advantages and Scalability18:36 Geological Uniqueness and Processing Efficiency27:51 Going Public: Considerations and Challenges36:01 Future Outlook and Investor Opportunities

HIGHLIGHTSPhoenix Tailings focuses on extracting rare earths from mining waste.The company has raised $90 million to date.Nick Myers emphasizes the importance of midstream processing.The oxide to metal conversion is a key area of focus.Collaboration within the industry is crucial for success.Industrial policy is needed to support the rare earth sector.Recent changes in the market have galvanized interest in rare earths.Scaling operations is a priority for Phoenix Tailings.The company aims to process tailings for various metals.A startup mentality drives the culture at Phoenix Tailings.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, host Dustin Olsen and co-host Daniel O'Connor engage with Nick Myers, CEO and founder of Phoenix Tailings. The conversation delves into the innovative approaches Phoenix Tailings is taking to extract rare earth metals from mining waste using clean and zero waste processes. Nick shares insights into the company's journey, the challenges of midstream processing, and the importance of collaboration within the industry. The discussion also touches on the need for industrial policy to support the rare earth sector in the U.S. and the exciting future prospects for Phoenix Tailings as they aim to scale operations and make a significant impact on the global supply chain.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Phoenix Tailings and Rare Earths03:00 The Journey of Phoenix Tailings06:00 Understanding the Midstream Processing08:54 Innovative Approaches to Rare Earth Processing11:59 The Oxide to Metal Conversion Process15:08 Sourcing Feedstock and Industry Collaboration17:53 Building a Sustainable Rare Earth Industry21:01 The Role of Industrial Policy23:57 Recent Changes and Opportunities in the Sector27:03 Scaling Operations and Future Plans29:54 The Culture at Phoenix Tailings33:02 Looking Ahead: The Next Five Years

HIGHLIGHTSACE Clean is focused on creating a cleaner, safer way to recycle batteries.Nishchay Chadha has nearly two decades of experience in the mining and commodities sector.Lead batteries are highly recyclable, with 60-70% coming from recycled sources.The non-smelting process uses organic chemicals and operates at room temperature.ACE Clean's technology is modular, allowing for gradual implementation in existing facilities.The company aims to partner with other recyclers to transition the industry.There is a significant gap in the US market for battery recycling capacity.Policy frameworks in the US and India are evolving to support domestic supply chains.Misconceptions about battery recycling often lead to the belief that they end up in landfills.The future of recycling includes addressing challenges like mine tailings and nuclear waste.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Dustin Olsen and Daniel O'Connor interview Nishchay Chadha, co-founder of ACE Clean Battery Recycling. They discuss the innovative approaches to battery recycling, particularly focusing on lead batteries, and the importance of transitioning from traditional smelting processes to cleaner, non-smelting methods. Nishchay shares his extensive background in the mining and commodities industry, the challenges faced in battery recycling, and the need for partnerships and technology licensing to drive change. The conversation also touches on the parallels between critical minerals and battery recycling, the impact of policy frameworks on market dynamics, and the future challenges in the recycling industry.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to ACE Clean Battery Recycling05:14 Nishchay Chadha's Journey in the Mining Industry09:21 Innovative Non-Smelt Recycling Process14:20 Transitioning the Recycling Industry17:57 The Importance of Lead Battery Recycling22:01 Parallels Between Critical Minerals and Battery Recycling26:15 Policy Frameworks and Their Impact

HIGHLIGHTSEnedym aims to reduce dependence on rare earth metals.The electric motor industry is massive, with millions produced daily.Switch reluctance motors can eliminate the need for rare earth metals.Enedym has developed a comprehensive software platform for motor design.The company has benchmarked its motors against existing technologies.Two-wheelers and industrial vehicles are key target markets.Building trust with OEMs is crucial for adoption.Enedym's motors are inherently fault tolerant and reliable.The technology is expected to dominate the two-wheeler market by 2030.Investors are encouraged to explore alternatives to rare earth magnets.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, host Dustin Olsen and co-host Daniel O'Connor welcome Ali Emadi, founder and CEO of Enedym, a company pioneering magnet-free motor technology. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by rare earth metals in electric motors, the innovative solutions Enedym is developing, and the potential impact of their technology on various markets, including two-wheelers and industrial vehicles. Ali shares insights on the reliability and efficiency of their motors, the importance of building trust with OEMs, and the future outlook for the industry as it moves towards more sustainable practices.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Enidime and Its Mission02:05 The Problem with Rare Earth Metals06:31 Understanding Magnet-Free Motor Technology11:34 Overcoming Challenges in Motor Technology15:59 Target Markets for Magnet-Free Motors20:23 The Path to Market Adoption22:27 Current Production and Future Plans28:44 Reliability and Efficiency of Magnet-Free Motors34:15 Research and Data Supporting Technology35:53 Future Outlook for Enidime and Its Technology

HIGHLIGHTSJames discovered rare earths while reviving a bankrupt mine.The U.S. lacks the capabilities to mine and refine rare earths.National security is at risk due to reliance on foreign sources.Caldera has a permitted mine with proven resources in Missouri.The company can produce significant amounts of heavy rare earths.Economic viability is supported by reprocessing existing tailings.Partnerships with government and defense contractors are crucial.The Pentagon's past decisions have affected the rare-earth market.Caldera aims to meet a substantial portion of U.S. demand by 2028.Political obstacles hinder progress in the rare earth sector.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, host Dustin Olsen and co-host Daniel interview James Kennedy, CEO of Caldera, about the critical role of rare earth elements in national security and the mining industry. James shares his journey from discovering rare earths in a bankrupt iron ore mine to advocating for U.S. capabilities in mining and refining these essential materials. The conversation delves into the industry's challenges, the Pentagon's role, and the economic viability of Caldera's operations in Missouri, highlighting the urgent need for partnerships and investment to secure a sustainable supply chain outside China.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Rare Earths and Caldera03:09 Discovery of Rare Earths in Mining06:12 Engagement with Government on National Security09:06 Challenges in the Rare Earth Industry12:03 The Role of the Pentagon and Market Dynamics14:59 Current State of Heavy Rare Earths17:46 Caldera's Mining Operations and Future Plans21:10 Economic Viability of Extraction24:04 Partnerships and Funding Needs27:03 The Path Forward for Caldera29:50 Conclusion and Future Outlook

HIGHLIGHTSGeorge Bennett has a rich background in investment banking and mining.Rainbow Rare Earths focuses on extracting rare earths from phosphogypsum waste.High-grade projects are crucial for economic viability in rare earth mining.95% of exploration companies never reach production.Rainbow's project has a projected EBITDA margin of 75%.The company is on track to start construction in 2027.Floor pricing is essential for the rare earth market's stability.The demand for rare earths is expected to grow significantly.Rainbow is the only group currently extracting rare earths at scale from phosphogypsum.The company aims to produce 4,000 tons of separated NDPR annually by 2028.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, George Bennett, CEO of Rainbow Rare Earths, shares insights into the rare earth mining industry, his extensive background in mining and finance, and the innovative approaches Rainbow is taking to extract rare earth elements from phosphogypsum waste. He discusses the challenges of rare earth production, the importance of high-grade projects, and the company's unique recycling methods. Bennett also addresses funding strategies, market dynamics, and the future prospects for Rainbow Rare Earths, emphasizing the need for floor pricing in the industry to ensure economic viability.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Rainbow Rare Earths02:26 George Bennett's Background and Experience05:08 Understanding Rare Earth Extraction Processes08:00 Challenges in Rare Earth Production10:45 The Importance of High-Grade Projects13:20 Rainbow's Innovative Approach to Recycling15:53 Funding and Financial Metrics18:38 Market Dynamics and Pricing Challenges21:23 Future Prospects and Strategic Partnerships24:03 Downstream Involvement and Supply Chain26:34 Challenges and Concerns Ahead29:09 Vision for the Future of Rainbow Rare Earths

HighlightsDefense Metals has a world-class light rare earth project in British Columbia.The project can concentrate from 2.4% in the ground to 50% concentrate grade.Permitting timelines are crucial and can take 2-3 years.Community engagement is essential for project success.The rare earth industry faces significant challenges, including financing and competition from China.Investors are increasingly interested in the Western rare earth market.There is a need for more chemical engineering talent in the rare earth sector.The demand for permanent magnets is driving growth in the industry.Mark Tory emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the rare earth industry.The Western world must develop its downstream processing capabilities.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Mark Tory, managing director of Defense Metals, discusses the company's unique position in the rare earth industry, focusing on their light rare earth project in British Columbia. He shares insights on the production timeline, challenges in the permitting process, and the importance of community engagement. Mark emphasizes the need for strategic partnerships and the role of emerging technologies in enhancing efficiency within the industry. He also offers advice for young professionals looking to enter the rare earth sector, highlighting the importance of chemical engineering and innovation.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Defense Metals and Mark Torrey02:01 Understanding Rare Earth Elements and Their Economic Viability05:00 Project Overview: Production and Timeline08:04 Permitting Process in Canada vs Australia10:04 Challenges in the Rare Earth Industry12:46 Community Engagement and Local Relationships16:59 Business Development and Offtake Agreements19:49 Refining and Processing in Canada22:54 Company Structure and Culture26:58 Investor Relations and Market Dynamics30:01 Future of Rare Earths and Emerging Technologies33:57 Advice for Young Professionals in the Industry

HighlightsBuckstop aims to enable a sustainable end of life for electronic devices.The company focuses on asset valuation rather than processing or recycling.AI plays a crucial role in improving the accuracy of asset valuations.The US has a low electronic waste recycling rate compared to other regions.Understanding the residual value of assets can drive better recycling practices.Buckstop's appraisal engine helps companies understand their asset's worth.The company is working towards becoming a standard in electronic asset valuation.Logistical challenges exist in the recycling industry, particularly in the US.Investment in recycling infrastructure is crucial for future growth.Buckstop aims to unlock feedstock for recycling and improve recovery rates.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Dustin and Daniel interview Alex Olesen, CEO of Buckstop, a data-driven urban mining company focused on revolutionizing electronic waste recycling through AI-driven asset valuation. Alex shares insights into the challenges of electronic waste management, the importance of accurate asset valuation, and how Buckstop aims to provide a solution for companies dealing with obsolete technology. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in improving recycling processes, the current state of the recycling industry, and future aspirations for Buckstop in the context of sustainability and the circular economy.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Buckstop and Its Mission02:48 Understanding the Business Model and Appraisal Engine06:02 The Importance of Recycling Rare Earth Elements08:56 Challenges in the Recycling Industry12:04 The Role of Technology in Asset Valuation15:06 Future Aspirations and Market Positioning17:52 Investment and Growth Strategies20:58 Global Perspectives on Recycling and Asset Recovery24:10 Conclusion and Call to Action

HIGHLIGHTSUtkarsh Singh's journey reflects a commitment to social welfare and environmental sustainability.BatX focuses on recycling critical materials from lithium-ion batteries to promote a circular economy.The global lithium supply chain is heavily dominated by China, especially in refining.India is poised to become a significant player in battery recycling and critical mineral extraction.The technology used by BatX is energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, with a closed-loop process.Challenges in battery recycling include identifying the right time for recycling and ensuring batch quality.Partnerships with OEMs are crucial for BatX's growth and sustainability efforts.The future of energy storage will see more integration of lithium-ion technology in everyday life.Investments in battery recycling technology are essential for scaling operations in India.The recycling process can yield high-purity materials that are essential for battery production.SUMMARYIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Utkarsh Singh, CEO of BatX, shares his journey from marketing and CSR to founding a successful lithium-ion battery recycling company in India. He discusses the importance of battery recycling in combating climate change, the challenges of the global lithium supply chain, and the unique technology BatX employs for efficient recycling. The conversation also covers market dynamics in India, partnerships with global companies, and the future of energy storage and recycling.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to BATX and Ukarsh's Journey03:05 Understanding Battery Recycling and Its Importance06:11 The Lithium Supply Chain and Global Dynamics08:50 Technological Challenges and Innovations in Recycling12:01 The Future of Battery Recycling and Market Trends14:52 Partnerships and Collaborations for Growth17:50 Operational Insights and Recycling Processes20:51 Investment Landscape and Market Opportunities23:50 Myths and Misconceptions in Battery Recycling26:47 Conclusion and Future Outlook

HighlightsAML Magnetics was founded in 1995, focusing on high-energy physics.Wade Senti joined AML in 2017, following his father's passing.The company aims to reduce labor costs in magnet production.Customization is key in the magnet market, presenting both challenges and opportunities.The defense sector is a primary target market for AML Magnetics.PM wire is a unique process for producing magnets with innovative configurations.Recycling is crucial for sustainability in the magnet industry.Scaling production faces challenges related to the supply chain and capital.Prototyping is underway for defense applications, with plans for market entry.The vision for AML includes developing innovative magnet materials and customer relationships.SummaryIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Wade Senti, CEO of AML Magnetics, shares insights into the evolution of magnet technology, the challenges of scaling production, and the importance of innovation and customization in the magnet market. He discusses the company's focus on defense applications, the PM wire process for producing magnets, and the role of recycling in sustainability. Wade also outlines the vision for AML Magnetics over the next five years, emphasizing the need for collaboration within the supply chain and the potential for new materials to drive innovation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to AML Magnetics and Wade Senti04:02 The Evolution of Magnet Technology and Market Needs10:44 Innovative Design and Software Tools in Magnet Production14:33 Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Magnet Manufacturing18:18 PM Wire Technology and Its Applications20:33 The Importance of Recycling in the Magnet Industry22:46 Challenges in Scaling Production and Supply Chain Dynamics26:43 Prototyping and Future Market Readiness32:46 Vision for the Future and Industry Impact

HighlightsTurkey is strategically located next to Europe, making it a key player in critical minerals.The country has a diverse mineral portfolio, but much of it remains untapped.Turkey's rare earth deposits are not well understood, with limited downstream processing capabilities.Electric vehicle adoption is growing, but infrastructure challenges remain.The government is focusing on renewable energy and energy independence.International collaboration is essential for developing Turkey's critical minerals sector.Technology transfer is a key factor in negotiations with foreign partners.Turkey's mining permits can be expedited for strategic projects.The geology of Turkey supports a variety of rare earth minerals.There is a growing awareness and interest in critical minerals within Turkey.SummaryIn this episode, Dustin Olsen and Daniel O'Connor discuss Turkey's emerging role in the global supply chain of critical minerals with guest Sait Uysal. They explore Turkey's rare earth deposits, the challenges in mining and processing, the growth of the electric vehicle market, and the country's energy strategies. The conversation also touches on international collaborations, technology transfer, and the geological insights into Turkey's mineral wealth, highlighting the potential for future mining developments.

HighlightsKoch Modular specializes in modular EPC for chemical process facilities.Liquid-liquid extraction is a key technology for rare earth separation.Rare earth elements are challenging to separate due to their similar properties.The demand for rare earths has increased significantly in recent years.Koch Modular's technology can reduce the footprint and capital expenditure for rare earth processing.The company is actively engaging with potential clients for facility construction.Heavy rare earth elements are crucial for national security applications.Recycling rare earths can simplify the separation process.Pilot testing is essential for designing effective separation systems.Koch Modular is positioned to support both domestic and international rare earth projects.SummaryIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Dustin Olsen interviews Chris Rentsch and Brendan Cross from Koch Modular, who share insights into their innovative approaches to rare earth element separation. They discuss the challenges of separating rare earths, the advantages of liquid-liquid extraction technology, and the importance of domestic production for national security. The conversation also covers the timeline for setting up facilities, current projects, and the potential for recycling rare earths. The episode concludes with a look at pilot testing and the future outlook for Koch Modular in the rare earth space.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Koch Modular and Rare Earth Elements03:06 Challenges in Rare Earth Separations06:12 Innovations in Extraction Technology08:59 Market Landscape and Competitive Analysis11:58 Modular Systems and Project Timelines14:49 Future Prospects and Global Opportunities25:14 Modular Systems and Their Applications27:12 Heavy Rare Earths and National Security30:00 Tailored Modular Approaches for Defense32:12 History and Evolution of Rare Earth Technology35:28 Mining Process and Requirements for Separation38:17 Vertical Integration and Market Strategies40:00 Pilot Testing and Project Planning44:39 Agility in Business Models and Recycling Paradigms

HighlightsIonic Rare Earths is focused on heavy rare earths and recycling.The Makutu asset in Uganda is development-ready and strategically important.Heavy rare earths are crucial for military and defense applications.The company can sustain a significant portion of US demand for heavy rare earths.Recycling technology is gaining traction and is a priority for governments.Ionic is building partnerships in Brazil to enhance recycling capabilities.The company has a strong financial position and is focused on capitalizing on market opportunities.Talent acquisition is essential for scaling operations in the US and Brazil.Recycling will play a larger role in the rare earth supply chain by 2030.The market is shifting towards security of supply over price.SummaryIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Tim Harrison, Managing Director of Ionic Rare Earths, discusses the company's strategic position in the rare earths market, particularly focusing on heavy rare earths and recycling technology. He highlights the significance of the Makutu asset in Uganda, the importance of heavy rare earths in supply chains, and the company's initiatives in Brazil. Tim also addresses the financial landscape, talent acquisition, and the future of recycling in the rare earth supply chain, emphasizing the growing demand and opportunities in the market.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ionic Rare Earths and Tim Harrison03:10 Exploring Heavy Rare Earths and Their Importance05:58 The Makutu Asset and Its Strategic Advantages08:57 Commercial Relationships and Market Demand12:06 Recycling Technology and Its Validation15:03 Brazilian Ventures and Recycling Initiatives17:55 Financial Position and Capital Strategy20:50 Future Projections and Market Dynamics23:52 Talent Acquisition and Operational Growth27:04 Conclusion and Future Outlook

HighlightsPermitting for projects can take up to 29 years.The goal is to reduce permitting timelines to three years.85-90% of rare earth oxides are controlled by China.The U.S. is highly dependent on China for rare earth elements.A comprehensive industrial policy is needed for independence.Emergency funding of $25-50 billion is necessary.A crisis may trigger significant government action.Private sector involvement is crucial for progress.Standardized contracts and pricing are essential.Forecasts suggest independence from China may not be achieved until 2040.In this episode, Dustin and Daniel discuss the complexities of the rare earth supply chain, particularly the overwhelming dependence on China for rare earth elements and magnets. They reflect on the previous episode with Emily, the director of the permitting council, and the challenges of permitting timelines. The conversation shifts to the need for a comprehensive industrial policy and emergency funding to achieve independence from China, as well as the potential triggers for action, such as a crisis or conflict. They emphasize the importance of private sector involvement and the need for transparency in the market to drive progress in the rare earth industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Recap of Last Episode02:46 Permitting Challenges and Progress05:47 Reality of Rare Earth Supply Chains08:57 Dependence on China and Future Projections12:03 Need for Industrial Policy and Emergency Measures14:46 The Role of Private Sector and Government Collaboration17:52 Potential Triggers for Action21:11 Conclusion and Future Outlook

HighlightsThe federal government often acts as an impediment to project permitting.A cultural shift is needed to prioritize 'yes' in permitting processes.Recent reforms have aimed to streamline the NEPA process.The average time to permit a mine in the U.S. is 29 years.The goal is to reduce the average permitting time to three years.Transparency in the permitting process can expedite approvals.Interagency coordination is crucial for project success.Critical minerals are vital for national security and clean energy.Investors should look for projects on the Permitting Council's dashboard.The Permitting Council is eager to assist developers in navigating the process.SummaryIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Emily Domenech, the executive director of the Permitting Council, discusses the challenges and opportunities in the federal permitting process for critical minerals and infrastructure projects. She emphasizes the need for a cultural shift within the federal government to streamline permitting, reduce delays, and leverage technology. Emily shares recent successes in expediting permits and highlights the importance of interagency coordination to support national security and clean energy initiatives. She encourages investors and developers to engage with the Permitting Council to navigate the permitting landscape effectively.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Permitting Challenges02:59 Navigating Federal Permitting Processes05:46 Recent Wins in Permitting09:07 The Role of Technology in Permitting12:02 Interagency Coordination and Collaboration14:55 Critical Minerals and National Security18:04 Investment Signals in the Mining Sector20:46 Conclusion and Future Outlook

HighlightsAttero is a leading player in critical minerals recycling.The company has over 46 granted global patents.Attero recycles a wide range of electronic waste.Their recovery rates are significantly higher than global averages.China controls over 90% of the rare earth supply chain.Attero's technology allows for efficient urban mining.The company is looking to expand operations in the US and Europe.Carbon credits are a sustainability metric, not a financial focus.Attero plans to go public within 12 to 24 months.The future of recycling rare earths looks promising, with projections of over 50% by 2030.SummaryIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, host Dustin Olsen and co-host Daniel interview Nitin Gupta, co-founder of Attero, a leading technology player in the critical minerals recycling space. Nitin shares his background, the inception of Attero, and the company's innovative approach to recycling electronic waste and critical minerals. The conversation delves into Attero's technological advantages, the current state of rare earth recycling, China's dominance in the market, and the importance of sustainability and carbon credits. Nitin also discusses Attero's expansion plans, future growth, and the role of partnerships in achieving their goals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Atero and Nitin Gupta02:54 The Birth of Atero: Concept and Journey04:04 Sustainability and Urban Mining05:18 Innovative Recycling Technology and Differentiators07:35 China's Role in Rare Earth Recycling12:50 Patents and Collection Networks17:09 Expansion Plans and Future Growth19:34 Carbon Credits and Sustainability Metrics21:05 Going Public and Company Growth22:51 Future of Rare Earth Recycling

HighlightsMark Jensen has over 22 years of experience in the mining sector.American Resources focuses on producing rare earth elements domestically.The company utilizes innovative chromatography technology developed at Purdue University.Environmental sustainability is a key focus in their production processes.Scalability is achieved through modular production systems.The defense industry is a significant market for rare earth elements.American Resources aims to supply 100% of the defense industry's needs.The company is committed to competing on pricing with Chinese suppliers.Workforce development is crucial for the future of the industry.Mark Jensen believes in the importance of collaboration and partnerships.SummaryIn this episode of the Rare Earth Exchanges podcast, Mark Jensen, CEO of American Resource Corp, shares his journey in the rare earth industry, discussing the innovative technologies his company employs, the challenges of competing with China, and the importance of building a strong workforce. He emphasizes the need for partnerships and collaboration to meet the growing demands of the defense industry and the potential for the U.S. to become independent in rare earth production.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Rare Earth Industry03:10 Mark Jensen's Journey and Company Overview05:41 Innovative Technology and Environmental Impact08:30 Scalability and Production Capacity11:12 Market Position and Competitive Edge13:52 Defense Industry Demand and Supply Chain16:25 Future of Rare Earths in the U.S.18:57 Labor Force Challenges and Solutions21:38 Building a Sustainable Market24:15 Future Projections and Company Growth26:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts