The Last Dinosaur - Maritime Shipping In the Digital Age

Guest: Thomas Nordberg CEO, The Swedish Club Episode Overview Shipping has always been about risk. But the nature of that risk is shifting. In this episode, I sit down with Thomas Nordberg, CEO of The Swedish Club, to explore how maritime risk has evolved from vessel-centric, event-driven incidents to complex systemic exposures shaped by geopolitics, regulation, cyber threats, and digital transformation. This is not a conversation about premiums and policies. It is a practical look at how insurers are adapting, how shipowners should be thinking differently, and why the P&I club model may be more relevant today than ever. The Last Dinosaur is proud to collaborate with Digital Ship to continue these practical conversations around maritime digitalization and risk. Key Discussion Highlights ✅ Risk Is Now Systemic Geopolitics and regulation reshape exposure overnight. ✅ How the Mutual Model Works Member-owned structure. Shared risk. Long-term alignment. ✅ Reputation Moves at Internet Speed Incidents are public in minutes. ✅ From Claims to Prevention Data and analytics are shifting insurance from reactive to proactive. ✅ Cyber Is Expanding Fast Dedicated products are emerging as digital exposure grows. ✅ Digital Impacts Crew Welfare Connectivity now affects retention and wellbeing. Why This Episode Matters The risk profile in shipping is expanding, not shrinking. Geopolitical volatility. Cyber threats. Regulatory acceleration. Green tech. Understanding how insurers see these risks gives operators a different lens as we move into 2026 and beyond. Tune In Now Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Related Listening For more on incident response and public visibility, revisit Episode 115 with Joseph Farrell Jr. of Resolve Marine. Help Us Grow Follow the podcast Leave a five-star review Share it with your network Stay curious. Stay salty.

Guest: Gordana Ilic, PhD — Co-Founder & Co-CEO, BetterSea and host of The Wavemakers Podcast Episode Overview: Gordana Ilic didn't come up through shipping.  Gordana's path was through sustainability, entrepreneurship, corporate innovation, then into Maersk's decarbonization work before returning to entrepreneurship. In this episode, we go beyond regulation talk and into what's really happening in the market: how FuelEU is being received, why smaller owners moved faster than some of the giants, what pooling is changing culturally and commercially, and what founders learn the hard way about building in an industry that's still adjusting to transparency. Key Points: From sustainability to shipping, by way of innovation: Gordana's path from chemistry/PhD work to startup ecosystems, corporate innovation, and finally maritime decarbonization. Why she left Maersk to build again: Entrepreneurship as "nature," not just opportunity and why ignoring that pull started affecting her health. BetterSea's pivot: broad vision → sharp wedge: Starting with a wider decarbonization decision framework, then focusing on FuelEU to match market readiness and urgency. FuelEU early reactions were… real: From "EU ETS won't happen" to skepticism in Singapore  and the long road of educating the market before urgency hit. Surprise: smaller owners moved first: Faster decision cycles, direct access to leadership, and a willingness to act once risk/opportunity became clear (including strong early traction with Greek owners). The IMO pause shockwave: A market freeze, regrouping, and then clarity: regional regulations are the near-term reality and FuelEU isn't going away. Pooling is working but it forces transparency: Deals, due diligence, KYC, and the reality that shipping companies aren't always used to hearing "no" from their counterparties, now other shipping companies. Efficiency isn't one silver bullet: Alternative fuels are straightforward in concept, but the bigger differentiator is execution speed, alignment, and how companies think portfolio-style over time. Founder advice that matters: Trust your gut, challenge norms politely, ask "why not," and reach out to people early (LinkedIn is a cheat code when used well). Podcasting as a leadership tool: Why Gordana launched The Wavemakers Podcast, what she's learned from conversations, and why creative projects often become personal "guide rails." Learn More: Check out Gordana's podcast The Wavemakers Podcast on YouTube and other streaming channels. Related listening: Episode 105: Decarbonization & FuelEU Reality with Friederike Hesse of zero44.  This is a strong companion on compliance mechanics, pooling, and commercial decision-making. Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to the newsletter for updates — and if you're interested in advertising, reach out to my friends at Digital Ship.

Guest: Capt. Ankur Arora, Global Market Leader, Commercial at Bureau Veritas Group Episode Overview: Capt. Ankur Arora has lived shipping from all sides.  Years at sea, senior roles with shipowners, and now inside a leading class society. In this episode, he breaks down what changes when innovation stops being a slide deck and starts living onboard: design choices that affect daily work, the role of modeling and verification, how connectivity reshapes crew life, and why talent pipelines depend on telling the real story of seafaring. Key Points: Why he chose sea life (and what he learned fast): Early responsibility, rapid growth, and leadership lessons that carry forward well beyond the bridge. The reality of going shoreside: Transitioning ashore means starting over; steep learning curves, intense competition, and rebuilding credibility. Owner vs. class: different seat, same objective: Safe, compliant ships that stay on-hire and keep earning. Design decisions matter more than most admit: Seafarer input during design is limited, yet small operational details can drive safety and efficiency. Innovation vs. adoption: The tech landscape is crowded.  Key to success is validation and operational fit matter more than trends. Connectivity as an enabler, not a threat: Normal life at sea now includes connectivity; culture and leadership determine whether it helps or harms. Vetting and inspections strengthened by digital tools: Technology improves preparation, risk visibility, and robustness all without cutting corners. Related listening: Episode 89:  Seafarers, Decarbonization, and Diversity at Sea with Ralph Juhl, EVP, Technical at Hafnia.  This is a complementary owner-operator perspective on crew engagement and decarbonization in practice. Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: Please rate the show 5-stars, follow, and subscribe to the newsletter. Interested in advertising? Reach out to my friends at Digital Ship

Guest:  Akanksha Batura Pai, PD Executive Director, Sinoda Shipping Agency Pte Ltd | IMO Goodwill Maritime Ambassador (Emerita) | #1 Top 100 Women in Shipping Episode Overview: We kick off 2026 with a grounded, practical conversation with Akanksha Batura Pai PD, one of my favorite interviews to date. We talk about what digital transformation actually looks like inside a ship agency, why incremental change beats big-bang initiatives, how mindset drives successful adoption, and why clean data still matters more than AI hype. This episode is part of our ongoing partnership with The Captain's Table Challenge and for the second year in a row, The Last Dinosaur is the official podcast of the Challenge. Key Points: Ship agency is a services business with thin margins and constant pressure to improve Digitalization only works when it reflects real operational workflows Incremental change is more effective than sweeping transformations A failed digital rollout became a success once redesigned around how people actually work "Fall in love with the problem, not the solution" as a leadership mindset AI can reduce friction; but only if the underlying data is clean and reliable Retaining talent requires job redesign, flexibility, and modern leadership Related Listening: Episode 126: Maritime Digitalization Year in Review 2025 with Evan Efstathiou Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube Music by: Peg and The Rejected – King of SKA Artwork by: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate us 5 stars, and share it. Interested in sponsorship or advertising? Opportunities are available through our partnership with Digital Ship.

Guest: Evan Efstathiou, CEO of Burmester & Vogel and Founder of SkySail Advisors Episode Overview: For the fourth year in a row, Evan joins The Last Dinosaur to unpack the big storylines in maritime tech. From AI hype vs. reality and sector consolidation, to decarbonization, hardware innovation, and the next wave of corporate venture investing, this episode is your annual "state of the union" for digital shipping. Chris and Evan revisit last year's predictions, look at what played out in 2025, and lay out what to watch closely in 2026. Key Points: AI Moves From Hype to "Show Me the Money": AI has shifted from novelty add-on to table stakes. Vendors can't just say "AI" anymore—customers want real productivity gains and measurable ROI, not marketing gimmicks. Roll-Ups, Acqui-Hires, and the Looming "Big Five" Question: 2025 saw continued M&A among larger players and classic roll-ups plus AI acqui-hires. Evan talks about Kpler, Marcura, Sedna and others—and what it might look like if some of the "big five" platform players eventually combine. Decarbonization Tech Is Here to Stay (Even If Policy Pauses): Despite IMO's slower tempo, tools for ETS, FuelEU and emissions accounting are now baked into contracts and day-to-day operations. Tech and digital remain the "low-hanging fruit" for compliance, risk reduction, and cost savings. VC & Corporate Venture Capital Double Down on Maritime: Dedicated maritime funds and shipowner-backed CVC arms are becoming core capital sources for seed and early-stage innovation, especially where AI, optimization and decarb intersect. Hardware + Software Stacks Gain Momentum: From robotic hull cleaning to onboard sensor platforms and wind-assisted propulsion, Evan highlights how digital twins and AI-enhanced analytics are making hardware projects more bankable and easier to scale across fleets. The Future of Work: Smaller Teams, Bigger Tools: Claims departments, chartering desks, and brokers aren't going away—but their toolkits are changing. The real future is smaller, highly experienced teams amplified by AI, not full automation replacing human judgment and relationships. 2026: The Year of the AI Shakeout: With spending at "epic levels" for AI - boards, investors, and customers will all be asking the same thing: did it pay off? Evan predicts 2026 will be a defining year where resilient, commercially viable AI products pull ahead and weaker offerings fall away. Learn More: If you enjoy this episode, go back to our earlier Year in Review with Evan: Episode 94 – "Maritime Digitalization Year in Review 2024 with Evan Efstathiou" Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Music by: Peg and The Rejected – "King of SKA" Artwork by: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you've found value in this episode, please: Follow the show and rate us ★★★★★ Share the episode with a colleague or friend Support via Buy Me a Coffee if you'd like to help keep the pod going 💼 Advertising: If you would like to advertise with us, please contact Digital Ship.

Episode 125: Leveling the Playing Field in Global Trade with Carmit Glik of Ship4wd Guest: Carmit Glik, CEO, Ship4wd Episode Overview: Global trade isn't just mega-shippers and Fortune 500s. It's thousands of small and mid-sized businesses trying to move a single container without getting crushed by complexity. In this episode, Carmit Glik, CEO of Ship4wd, explains how her team is building a digital-first freight solution that combines technology and human support to give underdogs a fair shot in international logistics. Key Points: Why SMBs Are the Real Backbone of Trade How small and mid-sized businesses make up the majority of economic activity—and why they're often ignored by traditional logistics providers. Trust After Turbulence What COVID, the Red Sea disruptions, and shifting tariffs have done to SMB confidence—and why "too good to be true" is the default reaction to new services. Digital-First, Human-Backed How Ship4wd blends self-service booking, tariff calculators, and shipment tracking with real people on call when things go sideways. Knowledge as an Antidote to Chaos Why transparency on duties, tariffs, and total landed costs is now non-negotiable for business owners making tight-margin decisions. From VC to Founder: Lessons for Maritime/Logistics Startups Carmit's path from maritime VC to operator, what's changed in the startup ecosystem since 2018, and her advice for founders who want to solve real problems in freight. Sponsored by Accelleron This episode is brought to you by Accelleron and the LOREKA360° Emissions Desk—one partner, one process, and complete confidence in your compliance. Learn more at accelleron.com/emissions-desk. If you'd like to discuss sponsoring The Last Dinosaur, please get in touch with Digital Ship. Tune in Now: Listen to Episode 125 on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or your favorite podcast platform.

Connecting Ships with Local Experts Guest: Manos Koukouvios, COO,  Vsltec Episode Overview: Former seafarer and now COO of Vsltec, Manos Koukouvios shares how a real off-hire HVAC failure in West Africa sparked the idea for a vetted, location-based network of technical service providers. We talk about building a two-sided marketplace in shipping, managing expectations in a "WhatsApp world," and what founders should really focus on when starting in maritime tech. ⭐ Sponsor: Accelleron – LOREKA360° Emissions Desk You Should Be Operating Ships, Not Filing Paperwork Accelleron's LOREKA360° Emissions Desk is a complete compliance service that handles data checks, documentation, forecasting, and verification – powered by intelligent software and experts who've actually worked at sea. 👉 Learn more at accelleron.com/emissions-desk Want to advertise with the podcast?  Contact my friends at DigitalShip Key Points From sea to startup: Manos' journey from LNG and cruise ships to Flagship Founders and into VesselTech. The HVAC case that sparked Vsltec: How one bad technical job turned into months of off-hire and a clear problem to solve. Vetted, local networks: Why Vsltec insists on truly local service providers and how that de-clutters the "we do everything, everywhere" noise. Change management & expectations: Selling into overloaded technical/purchasing teams whose expectations are shaped by free, consumer-grade apps. Advice for founders: Obsess over the problem first, talk to people, and only build when you know it's real, big, and worth paying for. Learn More: For another deep-dive on maritime innovation, check out Episode 78: Navigating Maritime Innovation with Fabian Feldhaus Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Support the Podcast: Please rate 5 stars, follow, share, or support via Buy Me a Coffee. Stay curious, stay salty. 🦕🌊

Episode Overview: Crews are still getting paid with cash, FedExed checks, and manual wires. ShipMoney is trying to end that. In this episode, Stuart Ostrow explains how digital payroll and controlled payout options are changing how seafarers get paid, how owners manage cash, and how operators stay compliant in a sanctions-heavy world. This episode of The Last Dinosaur is produced in proud partnership with The Captain's Table, a global pitch platform spotlighting the people building the future of maritime. Sponsor: Staying compliant in shipping is only getting harder. CII, EU ETS, FuelEU… it's nonstop. OrbitMI's Orbit Reporter automates regulatory reporting, improves data accuracy, and helps owners get ahead instead of scrambling. Named one of the 150 Most Innovative Companies in Maritime four years in a row. Want compliance to be an advantage, not a tax on ops? Learn more at https://www.orbitmi.com/connected-maritime-era. Interested in sponsoring The Last Dinosaur? Reach out to Digital Ship. Key Points: Paying crew is still painfully manual — cash on board, wires, even paper checks. Digital pay gives seafarers control: they can send money home how they want (bank, wallet, cash pickup). Removing cash from vessels also helps owners with compliance, auditability, and fraud risk. Cyber and compliance are daily battles: sanctions, KYC, OTP security, penetration testing. This isn't just payroll anymore — companies are using these tools for ship stores, superintendent expenses, and vendor payments. Tune In: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and watch on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support the Show: Follow, rate us 5-stars, and share with someone in crewing, compliance, or vessel management.

Episode 122: Why Maritime Needs a Data Utility, Not Another App – Ari Marjamaa, Raa Labs Episode Overview: Raa Labs helps maritime businesses collect, organize, and share high-quality operational vessel data—onboard and onshore—so owners and operators can run analytics anywhere. Ari explains why Raa Labs acts like a "data utility layer".  This turns messy inputs into trusted signals, and what it takes to drive adoption from bridge to boardroom. Sponsor: KVH keeps fleets connected with a hybrid OneWeb + Starlink solution managed by one trusted partner. Learn more at kvh.com. Want to advertise with the podcast? Contact our friends at Digital Ship. Key Points: Data Utility Model: Deliver clean, contextualized data that any analytics tool can use—plumbing first, dashboards later. Horizontal, Not Vertical: Standardize and route data independent of OEM/app silos. Standardization by Software: A contextualization engine converts mixed units/labels into consistent outputs. Crew Workload: Use sensor data to auto-populate reports; crews validate instead of retyping. Adoption = Org Change: Exec buy-in, clear use cases, new team structures, and internal champions drive scale. Decarb & ROI: Voyage optimization + precise reporting support EU ETS/compliance while cutting fuel. Learn More: Related perspective on ROI for owners: Joy Basu (Smart Ship Hub). Tune in Now: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" • Art: GA Design • Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: Please rate 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates. Stay curious, stay salty. Chris

From Excel to Foresight: Ingrid Kylstad on Building Resilient, Low-Carbon Supply Chains Guest: Ingrid Kylstad, Managing Director, Klaveness Digital Episode Overview: Ingrid Kylstad joins Chris to unpack how Klaveness Digital's CargoValue helps industrial shippers shift from day-to-day firefighting to foresight-driven planning. They dive into digital twins for the seaborne supply chain, AI-enabled scenario modeling, change management in B2B software, and what it will take to build resilient, decarbonized, and cost-effective supply chains. As part of our Captain's Table Challenge series, this conversation spotlights practical innovation that sticks. The Last Dinosaur is the official podcast of the Captain's Table Challenge Key Points: Ingrid's path into maritime: From EU regulatory affairs to the Norwegian Shipowners' Association to leading at Klaveness Digital—why diverse backgrounds strengthen shipping. CargoValue explained: A SaaS "digital twin" that gives real-time shipment/inventory visibility, optimizes schedules, reduces stock-outs and demurrage, and enables global, real-time collaboration. From reactive to proactive: Why foresight, scenario planning, and "what-if" modeling beat spreadsheet firefighting. Change management is the product: Champions, early wins, and dedicated customer success are essential—Excel is the status-quo competitor. AI & automation: Co-pilots and automated workflows are moving from hype to table stakes; scenario modeling now far more attainable. Open ecosystems & APIs: Sophisticated buyers demand data portability and integrations; vendors must play nicely in diversified tech stacks. Decarbonization momentum: Less hype, more implementation—Scope 3 rigor is rising among large industrials; owners that serve them need credible data and tools. Learn More: Related episode: Ep 116 – Joy Basu of Smart Ship Hub: Evidence-based ROI for digital platforms and closing the innovation gap for small/mid-size owners. Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Accelleron — Emissions Desk, helping operators monitor, manage, and optimize emissions decisions. Learn more: accelleron.com/digital-solutions/emissions-desk Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you've found value in this episode, please rate us ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, follow, and share. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates—and consider supporting us on Buy Me a Coffee. Your support truly makes a difference!

Episode Title Episode 120: From F1 to Wind Wings: John Cooper on Data-Driven Decarbonization Guest: John Cooper, CEO, BAR Technologies Episode Overview: How motorsport-grade simulation, digital twins, and on-deck feedback are turning wind-assisted propulsion into real fuel and CO₂ savings—especially for smaller operators. Key Points: F1 → fleets: Simulation culture applied to ship design. Digital twin: ShipSEAT models routes; guides real voyages. Crew buy-in: Pride, stability, and daily "CO₂ saved." Retrofit ROI: 25-year wings move between vessels. Smart routing: Engine + wind changes voyage planning. SME advantage: Financing + maker-lists unlock adoption. Policy tailwinds: EU ETS/FuelEU strengthen the case. Friendly competition: Gamified performance mindset. Advertising with The Last Dinosaur: Want to reach maritime decision-makers? Learn more from our friends at Digital Ship. Media Partnerships: The Last Dinosaur is a media partner of The Captain's Table and SHIPPINGInsight. Learn More: Related: Episode 107: Driving Innovation at Sea – A Conversation with Garry Noonan of Ardmore Shipping Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you've found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to the newsletter for more updates. Your support truly makes a difference!

Episode 119: Project-Led Growth, Practical Decarbonization & Startup Bridges with Tabitha Logan Guest: Tabitha Logan, Director of Projects, Cetus Maritime; Co-Founder, The Captain's Table Episode Overview: From fleet renewals to digitalization to sustainability-linked financing, Tabitha Logan brings a project leader's perspective to maritime's transformation. She also shares how The Captain's Table Challenge continues to bridge the gap between shipowners and startups. Key Points: Leading growth at Cetus: S&P, M&A, branding, digitalization, ESG Why change management > new tools when driving adoption Quick wins that build buy-in (e.g., Shipfix saving teams 2–3 hours/day) Digitalization challenges: training, disruption, cyber risks Efficiency retrofits: rudder mods, prop tweaks, silicon coatings (8–10% fuel savings) Alternative fuels: biofuels now, methanol/ammonia still too costly Crew retention & morale gains from eco-fleet upgrades + Starlink connectivity Financing dividends: securing sustainability-linked loan facilities Captain's Table: how startups win by proving value early and listening to feedback Future vision: global heats (London, Dubai) feeding Hong Kong finals; alumni + corporate labs Sponsor:  This episode was sponsored by OrbitMI; check out their noon reporter here:  https://www.orbitmi.com/connected-maritime-era Learn More: Ep 114 – Josephine Le (The Hood): Seafarer welfare & transparency Ep 116 – Joy Basu (Smart Ship Hub): ROI-focused digital platforms for small/mid owners Tune in Now: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Advertising with The Last Dinosaur: Want to reach maritime decision-makers? Learn more from our friends at Digital Ship. Media Partnerships: The Last Dinosaur is a media partner of The Captain's Table and SHIPPINGInsight. Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Stay curious, stay salty.

Episode 118: Driving Strategy and Scaling Maritime Tech with Aleksander Askeland of Manta Marine Technologies Guest: Aleksander Askeland, Chief Financial Officer, Manta Marine Technologies Episode Overview: Aleksander Askeland's career journey has taken him from the Arctic coal trade to leading strategy and finance at Manta Marine Technologies, one of the most forward-looking players in maritime decarbonization. In this conversation, we dive into the CFO's role as a strategic driver, the realities of scaling tech in shipping, and why digitalization and emissions compliance must go hand in hand. Key Points: From Svalbard to Shipping: How a coal export operation in the Arctic introduced Aleksander to shipping's complexity and sparked his passion. The Yara Years: Why Yara's pivot from scrubbers to a broader tech portfolio laid the groundwork for Manta's evolution. CFO as Strategist: Moving beyond balance sheets and towards how finance leadership shapes market positioning, acquisitions, and tech bets. Change Management at Sea: Why crew adoption is central to decarbonization technologies and how to avoid disrupting daily workflows. Acquisition by Okapi Supply Trading SA: How independence from Yara is making Manta more agile in responding to market and regulatory pressures. Scaling Beyond Pilots: Overcoming the challenge of moving shipowners from 1–2 trial vessels to fleet-wide adoption. Investor Attention: Where maritime tech is in the "football match" of investment and why maritime-focused VCs are changing the game. Learn More: Listen to my conversation with Scott Bergeron, Head of Fleet Management at Oldendorff Carriers, on scaling maritime operations [Episode 82]. Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Head cook and bottle washer: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you've found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates. Your support truly makes a difference! Proudly sponsored by: The Captain's Table – the premier global pitch competition for maritime and logistics startups SHIPPINGInsight – North America's premier technology & innovation forum for shipping London International Shipping Week 2025 – where the world's maritime leaders meet Curious about adverstising with us?   Get in touch with the team at Digitial Ship 

Digitizing the Forgotten Majority: Small Shipowners & Big Impact with Joy Basu Guest: Joy Basu, CEO of Smart Ship Hub Episode Overview: In this episode, Chris Aversano speaks with Joy Basu, CEO of Singapore-based Smart Ship Hub, about how small and mid-sized shipowners, often overlooked in the innovation conversation are finding measurable value in digital platforms. Joy shares how Smart Ship Hub delivers real-world results like faster trade settlements, reduced manual reporting, and better compliance. The conversation also explores bridging the digital maturity gap, creating proof through case studies, and what maritime can learn from avionics and other high-data sectors. Key Points: ·       The 60% Overlooked: Small and medium shipowners make up the majority of the market, yet most innovation headlines focus on the largest players. ·       ROI-First Mentality: These owners care about one thing the bottom-line impact. Smart Ship Hub's adoption often starts with two ships and grows quickly based on proven savings. ·       Reducing Settlement Time: Joy shares a real-world example of slashing trade settlements from 30–45 days to 1–2 days using unified data. ·       Efficiency Gains That Matter: From emissions reporting to compliance, platforms can save hundreds of hours.  This equates to 2–4 man-months per fleet. ·       Breaking Through Legacy Mindsets: Many smaller owners still operate with outdated tools. Case studies and clear KPIs are the only way to shift that mindset. ·       The Aviation Parallel: Companies with avionics-grade digital maturity are entering maritime and bringing with them scalable, connected infrastructure. ·       Don't Sell, Show: Demonstration, not persuasion, is how Smart Ship Hub gets buy-in from skeptical users. ·       The Democratization of Data: The future belongs to those who can process and share data, not hoard it. Learn More: 🎧 Related episode: Episode 107 – Garry Noonan of Ardmore Shipping on Responsible Innovation Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: 💬 Like what you hear? Please rate the show 5 stars, follow, and share with your network. It really helps spread the word. ☕ Support the show: Buy Me a Coffee.  Your support helps keep us going strong. 🌊 Proud media sponsor of London International Shipping Week 2025, The Captain's Table Challenge, and SHIPPINGInsight.

Episode 115: Salvage, Safety, and the Future of Emergency Response Guest: Joseph Farrell III, CEO, Resolve Marine Episode Overview: In this episode, Chris speaks with Joseph Farrell III, CEO of Resolve Marine, about the evolving world of maritime salvage and emergency response. From the Deepwater Horizon to the recent Dali bridge response in Baltimore, Joe shares stories that show how Resolve navigates complexity, risk, and regulatory evolution. He also discusses the growing impact of digital tools, AI, and alternative fuels like ammonia and hydrogen on safety preparedness and training. Key Points: ·        The Evolution of Salvage: Joe reflects on Resolve's 40-year journey from a small Caribbean operation to a global leader in emergency marine response. ·        Defining Moments: Milestones like the Exxon Valdez legislation and Deepwater Horizon shaped not only Resolve's growth but also the regulatory landscape of salvage and oil spill response. ·        Rise of Alternative Fuels and Risks: The push for ammonia, LNG, hydrogen, and even nuclear fuels is forcing salvors to rethink emergency preparedness—despite little incentive or regulatory support. ·        Using AI and Data Smartly: Joe details how Resolve uses point cloud data, AIS tracking, and LLMs to improve decision-making, while emphasizing the limits of data in high-variability scenarios like salvage ops. ·        Dali Bridge Response & Social Media Pressure: Joe talks about managing public perception, drone surveillance, and misinformed critiques during the high-profile Dali bridge incident. ·        Crew Training and Talent Shortages: With U.S. mariner pipelines shrinking, Resolve is investing in long-term training to build the next generation of salvage experts from the ground up. ·        Leadership, Growth, and Communication: Joe shares his philosophy on sustainable growth and clarity in leadership. Learn More: Listen to: Episode 111 – Dr. Gary Kessler: How cybersecurity gaps, AIS spoofing, and AI risks are reshaping maritime safety. Episode 110 – Jason Lloyd: Innovation in U.S. shipyards and closing the maritime skills gap for the future. Tune in Now: 🎧 Spotify | Apple Podcasts ▶️ Watch the full episode on YouTube Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Artwork By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you've found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars ⭐ and follow. Share it with a colleague or friend. Want to support the show? Buy Me a Coffee!

Episode Title: Empowering Seafarers: Building Trust and Connection in Maritime with Josephine Le of The Hood Guest: Josephine Le, Founder of The Hood Episode Overview: In this powerful and human-centered conversation, Josephine Le, founder of The Hood, shares her journey from crewing superintendent to tech founder. The Hood is a digital platform reshaping how seafarers connect, build careers, and find trusted resources in a fragmented maritime industry. We unpack the origins of her idea, the mental health crisis at sea, and why digital connection and transparency must be a top priority across the global shipping workforce. Key Points: The Birth of The Hood: Josephine shares how the COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep flaws in crew change logistics and inspired her to build a platform rooted in empathy and real-world challenges. Not Just LinkedIn for Seafarers: The Hood isn't a corporate social network—it's designed for the most inexperienced maritime workers, offering safer access to jobs, community, and resources. Smart Tools for a Safer Industry: Features like auto-CV generation, live document sharing, recruiter transparency, and candidate-controlled access are changing the game for job seekers and crewing teams alike. Fighting Fraud and Exploitation: The Hood only works with certified manning agencies and empowers users to report scams and misconduct—bringing accountability where it's desperately needed. Mental Health and Support: Josephine discusses The Hood's "We Care" section and partnerships with organizations like ISWAN and Sailors' Society to support vulnerable workers. AI with Caution: Josephine explains why The Hood hasn't rushed into AI, preferring to build something meaningful and data-backed over gimmicks. Books at 35,000 Feet: A lover of founder biographies, Josephine shares her current favorite—Man of This Land, about the rise of Hyundai's shipbuilding empire. Learn More: Check out Episode 109 with Pam Kern on maritime mental health, and Episode 80 with Carl King on seafarer welfare and advocacy. Tune in Now: Available on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Watch on YouTube Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If this episode moved you, follow, rate us 5 stars, share with your network, or support us via Buy Me a Coffee. Your support helps keep these important stories coming. The Last Dinosaur is proud to be a media partner of: 🚢 The Captain's Table 📆 London International Shipping Week 2025 🌐 SHIPPINGInsight

🎙️ The Last Dinosaur – Episode 113 Extending Ship Life, Decarbonization & Data with Tom Lister of Global Ship Lease Guest: Tom Lister, CEO, Global Ship Lease (NYSE: GSL) Episode Overview: Under Tom's leadership, Global Ship Lease has grown into one of the world's largest container tonnage providers while navigating the shifting seas of decarbonization, digitalization, and geopolitical disruption. In this episode, Tom explains how GSL extends the operational life of ships, collaborates with major charterers like Maersk, and leverages data and IoT to drive efficiency while keeping seafarer welfare at the core. Key Points: Owner, Operator, or Provider? Tom demystifies how GSL operates as a tonnage provider, using the airline analogy to clarify owner-operator differences for newcomers and veterans alike. Four Pillars of Decarbonization: From physical retrofits to biofuels, IoT data capture, and speculative investments in carbon capture, Tom outlines GSL's balanced, collaborative approach to meeting emissions targets while keeping flexibility. Why Data Matters: GSL's entire fleet is IoT-enabled with expanded Starlink bandwidth, enhancing both operational insight and crew welfare—critical for futureproofing in a fast-changing industry. Small Bets, Big Impact: Tom shares why GSL invests in maritime tech startups like Aqualung, highlighting the need for 'smart money' to drive practical innovation without locking into a single fuel pathway. Seafarer Welfare & Talent Pipeline: The conversation highlights the seafarer shortage as a top industry concern, resonating with discussions from our episode with Scott Bergeron on the future of crewing and maritime resilience. Adapting to Uncertainty: Tom reflects on how mid-size and smaller containerships provide optionality amid geopolitical shifts, emphasizing patience, discipline, and nimbleness as timeless maritime virtues. Leadership & Legacy: On a personal note, Tom shares what keeps him up at night—hint: it's not the business—and what he's reading, including Ninety Percent of Everything and James. Related Listening: 📌 Episode 54: The Digital Evolution of Shipping with Scott Bergeron  The maritime industry is at a crossroads of tradition and innovation. With leaders like Scott Bergeron at the helm, there's hope for a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand. Why You Should Listen "Shipping's been around for millennia, and it will reshape itself to whatever the future needs. We see our role as staying flexible and ready for that." – Tom Lister Whether you're new to shipping or a seasoned professional, Tom's perspective will help you understand the container sector's real challenges, the collaborative push for decarbonization, and why data is the key to staying relevant. 🎧 Tune in Now: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube. 🚢 Help Us Grow: If you find value in these conversations, please: ✅ Rate us 5-stars ✅ Follow & share with your network ✅ Support via Buy Me a Coffee Your support keeps The Last Dinosaur going! Stay curious, stay salty, Chris

Embracing Innovation While Honoring Tradition: Kenji Togasaki of IINO Lines Guest: Kenji Togasaki, Senior Vice President at IINO Lines Episode Overview: Chris speaks with Kenji Togasaki about how IINO Lines—a storied, publicly traded Japanese shipping company—balances operational excellence with forward-looking innovation. They explore IINO's venture investments, focus on digitalization, decarbonization, and the promise of autonomous shipping while navigating the realities of a legacy shipping environment. Key Points: Kenji's Maritime Journey: From chemical tanker chartering across Asia and the US to CPA-backed strategy roles, Kenji shares his pathway to leading IINO's innovation initiatives. COVID Spark to Innovation: How IINO began structured innovation during COVID, moving the company's mindset toward technology adoption. Investing to Learn: IINO's strategy of investing in TMV (US), The Dock (Israel), and Motion Ventures (Singapore) to map the maritime startup landscape before moving to direct investments. Focus on Decarbonization, Autonomy, Digitalization: Why these areas are critical for long-term compliance and competitiveness. The Importance of Hardware: Why emissions reductions require physical technologies like wind propulsion alongside digital tools. Collaboration Across the Industry: How collaboration with charters, peers, and startups drives meaningful change. Building Internal Digital Literacy: Using internal newsletters and digital tools to raise innovation literacy within IINO's conservative culture. Learn More: For more on how data-driven strategies are transforming maritime operations, revisit Episode 70 with Jeff Wakker of Viterra Chartering. 🎧 Listen Now: 🔹 Apple Podcasts 🔹 Spotify 🔹 YouTube Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Artwork by: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you find value in these conversations, please rate us 5-stars, follow, and share with a colleague. You can also support The Last Dinosaur on Buy Me a Coffee to help us continue bringing you top maritime leaders. We are proud to be a media sponsor of London International Shipping Week 2025.

🎙️ Episode 111: Cyber Threats on the High Seas, a Conversation with Dr. Gary Kessler Guest: Dr. Gary Kessler, Co-Founder, Maritime Hacking Village at DEF CON Episode Overview: Cybersecurity is often underestimated in maritime—but Dr. Gary Kessler is on a mission to change that. A pioneer in digital forensics and co-founder of the new Maritime Hacking Village at DEF CON, Gary joins us to break down the risks, realities, and next steps for a sector still catching up to the cyber age. From AIS spoofing to autonomous vessel vulnerabilities, this episode covers the full threat landscape—and what we can do about it. Key Points: Maritime Hacking Village at DEF CON: Why it matters that maritime now has a dedicated space at the world's most iconic hacker conference. AIS & GPS Spoofing Risks: How easy it is to manipulate navigation systems—and the implications for global trade. AI, Autonomy & the Cyber Frontier: What happens when bad data meets automation—and why "garbage in, danger out" is the new threat model. Cybersecurity ≠ Cyber Awareness: Dr. Kessler argues for focusing on information protection—not just computers and networks. Workforce Development & Culture: We need digitally aware seafarers—and secure systems built by better-trained developers. Ports, Protocols & the Bigger Picture: From NMEA vulnerabilities to smart port exposure, the entire supply chain is at risk. The Policy Gap & Industry Readiness: If IMO can't lead, can insurers and charterers enforce change? Learn More: 🎧 Listen to Episode 67: Navigating the Cyber Seas – Securing Maritime Operations in the Digital Age 🎧 Check out Episode 46 with Youri Hart for insight into digital compliance and regulations like UR E26. Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you've found value in this episode, support us at Buy Me a Coffee ☕. The Last Dinosaur is proud to be a media sponsor for London International Shipping Week 2025.

Episode 110: Rebuilding Shipbuilding – Remote Work, Training & the Future of U.S. Yards Guest: Jason Lloyd, Senior Executive at TotalTek Episode Overview: Jason Lloyd brings over three decades of leadership experience, forged in the U.S. Navy's nuclear power program, to the conversation on reviving America's shipbuilding capabilities. In this episode, he explores how TotalTek is pioneering remote workforce models in ship design and engineering, tackling the shipyard talent gap, and creating pathways for the next generation of maritime professionals. From welding lessons of WWII to the promise of the SHIPS Act, this is a forward-looking take on a critical national issue. Key Points: A Historical Wake-Up Call: The U.S. went from building 5,000 ships in WWII to just 12 per year today—Jason breaks down the policy decisions that led to this decline and what must change. Remote Work in Ship Design: TotalTek has embraced a distributed engineering model, proving that with the right values, remote work can unlock a new, untapped labor pool across the country. Training the Next Generation: TotalTech's partnership with Gulf Coast Community College helps new designers gain practical experience, breaking the "3 years of experience for an entry-level job" paradox. Bridging the Industrial Gap: Rebuilding capacity isn't just about welders—America is also facing a critical shortage of ship designers and engineers. Remote work and targeted training are part of the solution. The SHIPS Act – Hope on the Horizon: With bipartisan support and a focus on both infrastructure and workforce development, this proposed legislation could reshape U.S. maritime capabilities. New Collar Work, New Thinking: Additive manufacturing, cold spray, and other advanced techniques may be key to scaling up shipbuilding—if the U.S. embraces risk and innovation. From Skeptic to Believer: Jason candidly shares how he once doubted remote work—until he realized that getting the best people in the right roles matters more than where they sit. Learn More: Check out Episode 94: Maritime Digitalization Year in Review with Evan Efstathiou for a broader look at how innovation intersects with workforce trends in shipping. Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you've found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates. Your support truly makes a difference!