Zenthos Energy is tackling two big challenges at once: energy storage and carbon capture. Their aluminum batteries aren’t just safer and cheaper than the usual lithium or cobalt options, they also last longer and actually create value by capturing CO2 and producing graphite along the way. Born in Albuquerque and now teaming up with Sandia National Labs and New Mexico State, the team is scaling solutions big enough for utilities, data centers, and microgrids, while also finding uses in military and remote applications. It’s a story of tech, partnerships, and ambition, with a clear mission to push gigawatt-scale solutions into the mainstream of sustainable energy.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - EnergyTech Nexus00:16 - Introducing Dev Motiram00:52 - Interview with Tom Chappell, CEO of Zenthos Energy09:45 - Tom's Journey into the Energy Industry11:36 - CO2 Capture Potential12:18 - Revenue Streams in Energy Tech13:56 - Energy Initiatives in Albuquerque15:38 - Non-Dilutive Funding Strategies17:30 - Fundraising Journey in Energy Startups21:06 - Addressing the Missing Middle24:01 - EnergyTech Nexus24:15 - Strategic Partnerships for Growth25:45 - Assessing Risk in Energy Ventures27:46 - Innovations in Aluminum Ion Batteries28:44 - Scaling Energy Solutions29:45 - Criteria for Investability31:05 - Current Goals in Energy Development32:10 - Insights from Houston's Energy Scene33:05 - Key Takeaways from the Week36:20 - Investor Discussions and Focus Areas37:40 - Manufacturing Considerations in Energy Tech40:50 - Defining Product Market Fit41:35 - How to Support Zenthos Energy43:28 - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarkshttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters
Houston’s got big plans for the energy transition, and Sandy Guitar is right in the middle of it. As Executive Director of TEX-E, she’s helping connect Texas universities (and even MIT) with industry to make sure the next wave of talent has the tools, and the confidence, to take on climate and energy challenges. We swapped stories about how Houston’s legacy as the energy capital is shaping its role as the energy transition capital, the value of disciplined entrepreneurship, and why collaboration across students, startups, and industry leaders is the secret sauce. If you’re curious about how the next generation of innovators is being built right here in Texas, Sandy’s perspective is a masterclass in turning vision into action.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro00:58 - What is TEXI08:12 - Favorite Book Recommendations16:16 - Disciplined Entrepreneurship Insights18:20 - Career Journey to Venture Capital20:14 - Entering Venture Capital24:30 - Skills for Success in VC28:15 - Pivotal Career Moments33:20 - EnergyTech Nexus Growth Platform37:57 - Luck vs Skill in Venture Capital41:10 - Evolving Team Dynamics46:10 - Economic Downturn Impact on Tech49:18 - Understanding Capital Flows53:24 - How Listeners Can Help57:20 - Conclusionhttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters
Resollant is shaking up hydrogen production with a twist that sounds almost too good to be true, turning natural gas into hydrogen and graphite, without the need for air permits or government handouts. Emily Avagliano, the founder behind the idea, walks us through how her turquoise hydrogen reactors not only cut costs but also capture carbon as a solid product you can actually sell. That means less CO2 floating around and more opportunities for industries to profit while cleaning things up. Jason and Nada dig into what this could mean for oil, gas, and other sectors trying to figure out decarbonization without slowing down their business. It’s a look at how one startup might just rewrite the playbook for clean energy.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Ad: Energy Tech Nexus - Connect with fellow founders and access critical resources00:16 - Emily Avagliano, CEO of Resolent00:45 - Overview of Resolent05:01 - Understanding Entrained Flow Reactors08:52 - Introduction to Turquoise Hydrogen11:27 - Ideal Clients for the Resilient Reactor14:53 - Development of the Resilient Reactor19:15 - Involvement with Resilient Energy Systems22:28 - Starting a Company in Energy Tech24:10 - Corporate Partnerships and Expectations28:58 - Joining Accelerators: Key Learnings31:00 - Insights on EnergyTech Nexus35:54 - Overview of Rice Clean Energy Accelerator38:20 - Embracing the CEO Role in Startups39:50 - Qualities of an Effective CEO42:49 - Importance of Sales Skills45:00 - Emotional Management for CEOs48:51 - Learning from Customer Feedback49:05 - Future Outlook for Energy Tech52:26 - Emily's Vision for the Next 10 Years54:03 - Contact Information for Emily55:13 - Acknowledgments and Thank You'shttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters
Turning CO₂ into carbon fiber sounds like science fiction, but Aaron Fitzgerald and the crew at Mars Materials are making it happen. Their process creates carbon-negative acrylonitrile, the stuff that goes into everything from sleek carbon fiber to water filters and high-tech textiles and they’re doing it with big-name partners like NREL and Shell. Aaron talks about reshoring carbon fiber production to the U.S., cutting carbon from supply chains, and what it takes to build a climate-driven company from the ground up. It’s a mix of chemistry, entrepreneurship, and a clear vision for a more sustainable future.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Energy Tech Nexus00:17 - Intro to Mars Materials03:48 - Aaron’s Background in Energy08:11 - Overview of Kairos Aerospace10:46 - Understanding Acrylonitrile14:33 - Acrylonitrile Production Process17:29 - The Sohio Process Explained22:04 - National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)24:40 - Tech Transfer from National Labs27:39 - Finding the Right Technology29:26 - Carbon180 Overview30:35 - Collaborating with Lawrence Livermore Lab32:19 - EnergyTechNexus Insights33:56 - LabStart Initiatives35:37 - Request for Information (RFI) Explained38:36 - Building a Business Deliberately41:15 - Mars Materials Today and Future48:30 - Fundraising Strategies52:40 - What's Next for Mars Materials54:45 - Erin's Shell Partnership Journey57:16 - Shell's Support for Erin1:00:11 - Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts1:03:44 - How to Help Mars Materials1:06:20 - Outrohttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters
Innovation doesn’t have to be slow or siloed and Xerathis is out to prove it. Rekha Patel walks us through how her platform is breaking down barriers between teams, helping everyone from scrappy startups to NASA-level giants turn their ideas into real, working solutions. It’s part hackathon engine, part crowdsourcing hub, and all about making collaboration easy, fast, and actually fun. If you’re building, leading, or dreaming something big, this one’s for you.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro00:25 - Rekha Patel, Founder & CEO of Xerathis03:42 - Rekha’s Career Journey: Geologist to Tech Entrepreneur11:28 - CEO Role Decision: Insights and Reflections19:20 - Understanding the Ideal Customer Profile23:23 - User Interaction on the Platform: A Deep Dive26:24 - Finding Advisors: Strategies for Success29:01 - Energy Tech Nexus35:05 - Meeting Pradeep: Networking in Tech37:05 - Pricing Strategy for Tech Products40:10 - Advice to My Past Self: Lessons Learned46:54 - Guidance for Mid-Career Professionals51:48 - Co-Founder Search: Tips and Tricks56:19 - Future of Xerathis: Vision and Goals1:00:24 - The Meaning Behind the Name Xerathis1:03:10 - How to Find Rekha: Contact Information1:03:19 - Connect with Rekha on LinkedIn: Networking Tipshttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters
What happens when old-school oilfields meet new-school tech? You get something like Spindletop AI, think machine learning and edge computing tailored for mid-sized operators trying to squeeze more out of every drop. Ian’s built a platform that helps producers ditch the spreadsheets and start making smarter, faster decisions right in the field. We talk about managing marginal wells, building hardware on a budget, and how he’s helping folks bump production by double digits. There’s also a great origin story behind the name Spindletop, plus some real talk on what it takes to launch a startup in the energy world without losing your mind (or your budget).Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Energy Tech Nexus00:16 - Intro to Ian Uriarte05:40 - Lifecycle of an Oil Well12:19 - TimberGrove vs Spindletop17:29 - Spindletop's Innovations19:14 - Spindletop Network Functionality25:42 - Spindletop's Current Journey34:00 - Insights from the Pilot Program34:42 - Achieving 17% Improvement40:18 - Fundraising Journey Overview47:15 - Motivations Behind Spindletop50:48 - Current Opportunities for Spindletop51:39 - Audience Support for Spindletop53:34 - Learning More About Spindletophttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Corrosion isn’t just rusty metal, it's a billion-dollar buzzkill that sneaks into everything from oil rigs to your local water plant. Luckily, we've got someone who’s flipping the script on this hidden villain using some seriously clever tech. He's developed tools that sniff out microbial corrosion right at the source, helping companies slash costs, stay safe, and shrink their carbon footprint. We chat about how sneaky microbes cause chaos in pipelines, biodiesel tanks, and even HVAC systems—and why those old-school detection methods just don't cut it anymore. Plus, hear his story from PhD researcher to startup founder, building a mission-driven company that's shaking up industries for the better.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Energy Tech Startups Overview00:24 - What Does CORROLYTICS Do?05:05 - Types of Corrosion Explained08:17 - Corrosion Mitigation Strategies14:05 - Early Traction & Customer Use Cases18:15 - Journey into Entrepreneurship23:35 - Academia to Entrepreneurship Transition26:38 - Leading the Decarbonization Charge28:49 - Moments of CEO Leadership37:37 - Advice for Your Younger Self38:00 - Building Relationships with Stakeholders39:30 - Raising Your First Million41:16 - Anwar’s Fundraising Journey45:18 - External Factors in Fundraising48:20 - Fundraising in the Energy Sector50:40 - Impact Metrics & Carbon Abatement52:30 - Contacting Anwar https://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Magnetic gearboxes built for the moon? Yeah, you read that right. Bryton Praslicka started out zapping circuits in his garage as a kid and ended up engineering contactless gear systems originally meant for NASA and now they’re showing up in everything from factory robots to aerospace tech. In this episode, he breaks down how FluxWorks went from a research lab to raising \$5M to bring its sci-fi-sounding gearboxes into the real world. We talk about why “motion solutions” are bigger than gears, what it takes to scale hard tech, and how magnetic tech is changing the game for robotics and automation.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Bryton Praslicka Intro01:14 - Causes of Wear and Tear in Systems06:06 - Invention of FluxWorks Technology09:17 - How FluxWorks' Magnetic Gear Operates12:14 - Understanding Slippage in Technology14:15 - Finding Value in Society through Innovation18:17 - Deciding to Start a Company21:39 - Tailoring Pitches for Different Audiences23:23 - The Importance of Storytelling in Business24:26 - Snobby Founder Moment Explained26:25 - Insights from EnergyTechNexus26:40 - Hiring Strategies for Startups27:00 - Managing Older Employees Effectively28:10 - Defining Mission, Vision, and Core Values31:40 - Deciding on Core Values for Your Company33:24 - Overcoming Significant Challenges in Business37:35 - Navigating the Fundraising Journey40:45 - Learning Fundraising Terminology42:30 - Fundraising Beyond Texas45:33 - Misunderstandings in Hard Tech Companies49:24 - Legacy: What Do You Want to Be Remembered For?51:20 - Contacting Jason for Insights52:40 - Podcast Wrap-Uphttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Batteries might not seem sexy, but they're literally powering the future and turns out, we've all been sleeping on electrolytes. We sat down with someone who's shaking things up by rethinking battery design from the inside out, focusing on the underrated electrolyte layer to boost performance, cut costs, and make charging quicker (and safer!). We talk about what it takes to scale a hard tech startup, snag superstar talent, and keep investors happy when funding's tough. Plus, why the battery tech coming your way, think EVs, huge storage solutions, even robots—is cooler (and closer) than you think.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Energy Tech Nexus00:16 - What is an electrolyte04:19 - History of Batteries07:01 - Matt's Career Path09:49 - Importance of Trust in Business14:02 - Technology Deployment Strategies17:42 - Electrolyte Sales Process19:59 - Customer Feedback Insights22:14 - End Users Driving Innovation26:05 - Why Now: Market Timing28:21 - Protecting Your Business31:25 - ETN: Sign Up for Updates31:38 - Electrolyte Delivery Methods34:29 - Battery Disposal Practices39:24 - End Market Strategy42:11 - Challenges in Startup Phase43:10 - Starting a Company Today44:34 - Talent Acquisition Strategies49:26 - Self-Selecting Talent51:42 - Fundraising for Startups54:28 - Investor Outreach Strategies56:18 - Setting Bold Goals59:20 - Impact of Politics on Business1:02:12 - Future Vision: 5-Year Plan1:05:37 - How to Connect with Matthttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@DigitalWildcatters
Who knew cactus could be the future of clean energy and sustainable farming? Rhiannon Parker, the brains behind Loop Bioproducts, is flipping the script by turning prickly pear into biofuels, eco-friendly products, and a lifeline for dry, worn-out land. We get into her wild ride from neuroscience to oil and gas to renewable energy, why she bootstrapped her company instead of chasing VC money, and how she’s weaving regenerative agriculture and indigenous knowledge into the heart of everything she builds. Plus, a peek into her passion project, the Loop Institute, where she’s sparking a new wave of STEM innovation.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Energy Tech Nexus00:15 - Intro01:29 - What is Loop Bioproducts06:12 - Skills from Previous Experiences09:34 - Value of Diverse Experience12:57 - Importance of Cactus in Sustainability17:34 - Cactus Photosynthesis Process20:40 - Mechanical Harvesting Techniques21:36 - Loop Bioproducts Business Model23:26 - Sourcing Cactus for Production26:40 - Acquiring Land for Agriculture31:41 - Regenerative Agriculture Practices36:26 - Importance of Timing in Agriculture39:34 - Current Consumer Trends43:40 - Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainability49:00 - Understanding Biopiracy Issues50:00 - Reasons for Avoiding Venture Capital55:10 - Statistical Behavior in Business57:55 - Expertise in Emerging Industries01:03:05 - Contacting Loop Bioproducts and The Loop Institutehttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Energy storage isn’t just about batteries, it’s about reshaping the future of American manufacturing, and Mush Khan knows it firsthand. From running supply chains in China to now building Alchemy Industrial from the ground up, Mush breaks down how storing energy is a lot like caching data, why the U.S. needs to get serious about reshoring, and how Houston could become the next hub for advanced manufacturing. He also gets real about the role of education, talent, and tech like AI in bringing industrial innovation back home. It’s a mix of big ideas, practical insight, and one guy’s mission to build smarter from the ground up.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro08:11 - Reshoring Strategies in Manufacturing11:35 - Patience in Industry Transformation19:09 - Government Regulations Impacting Energy Tech21:22 - WWII Manufacturing Success Story24:41 - Understanding Tariffs in Energy Sector28:14 - Building a Talent Pipeline for Tech31:03 - Importance of Technical Education33:28 - Addressing Systemic Issues in Manufacturing35:45 - The Role of Automation in Industry38:23 - Defining Wealth in Modern Context41:14 - Exploring Comfort in Today's Economy43:26 - Defining Success in Energy Tech45:22 - Houston as a Global Manufacturing Hub48:50 - Challenges in the Education System52:49 - The Power of Storytelling in Tech54:56 - Tackling the Talent Shortage Crisis55:53 - AI's Role in Revolutionizing Manufacturing1:04:13 - Getting Started with AI in Industry1:05:42 - Innovations in Additive Manufacturing1:07:17 - Closing Remarks and Future Insightshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Energy tech meets real-world impact in this one, Ngu Morcho shares how he's helping startups unlock overlooked markets with a boots-on-the-ground approach that blends health, energy, and finance into something seriously transformative. We’re talking about building infrastructure that actually serves people, not just pipelines and panels. From mobilizing patient capital to creating ecosystems that stick, this convo explores what it really takes to bring equity and sustainability to places that need it most.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro05:04 - Monetizing Energy Projects09:56 - Need for Project Developers11:36 - Origin of the Rice Alliance15:29 - Integrated Project Delivery & Finance20:19 - Local Capacity Building Importance23:20 - EnergyTech Nexus Overview26:13 - Current Projects in Development34:10 - Understanding Blended Finance38:40 - US Infrastructure & Energy Equity41:55 - Future Vision for Energy Sectorhttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Apartments and EV chargers, why is it such a headache? That’s exactly what we’re tackling with David Aaronson, the real estate pro behind Refuel Electric Vehicle Solutions. With EV adoption skyrocketing, renters are demanding charging options, but property owners are stuck figuring out how to make it work. David’s company is cutting through the red tape, bringing EV charging to 83 cities and counting, while making it painless (and profitable) for landlords. We’re talking infrastructure hurdles, ESG priorities, and how EV charging is shaping the future of multifamily living, because let’s be real, the days of hunting for an open charging spot are numbered.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - EnergyTech Nexus00:16 - Refuel EV Solutions04:31 - EVs in Norway05:54 - EVs in Houston10:22 - Refuel’s Business Model16:23 - Sizing an Installation20:45 - Solar and Battery Integration22:15 - Managing EV Charging Duration26:59 - Geographic Differences in EV Charging28:50 - Innovation vs. Invention in EVs35:37 - David Aaronson's Background40:14 - Starting Revs: Journey and Insights49:25 - Impact of EV Tax Credit on Business55:14 - Government Incentives for EV Charging57:40 - Role of Utility Companies in EV Charging59:58 - Aligning Revs' Interests with Customers1:00:30 - How to Find ReFuel Energy Solutionshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Finding the right talent in energy is a headache, but EnergyGigs is flipping the script. CEO Jason Assir joins us to talk about how his platform is making it easier for companies to connect with consultants, freelancers, and even retirees without all the hiring red tape. We get into why traditional hiring doesn’t work for this industry, how AI is shaking things up, and why the future of energy work is looking more flexible than ever, think project-based roles, geothermal experts in demand, and a surge in hydrogen-focused gigs. Jason’s got a unique take on careers, too, challenging the idea that you have to stick to just one lane. If you’re in energy and tired of the same old hiring grind, this one’s for you.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - EnergyTech Nexus00:16 - EnergyGigs05:47 - EnergyGigs vs Upwork and Fiverr08:20 - Hiring Tips: Testing Candidates09:58 - COVID's Impact on Work Culture11:26 - Finding the Right Job Candidate19:55 - EnergyGigs Monetization Strategies21:41 - Future Plans for EnergyGigs23:20 - Investor Sentiment in Energy Sector24:53 - Leading the Decarbonization Charge25:54 - Capital Deployment by Investors28:04 - Fundraising Insights in Houston31:11 - Bootstrapping Challenges32:53 - The Mom Test Explained35:55 - Achieving Product Market Fit38:20 - Pivotal Moments in Business39:34 - New Administration's Impact on Energy41:36 - Positioning for the Next Four Years44:43 - Importance of Mentorship48:58 - Future Developments for EnergyGigs51:00 - Contact Informationhttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Tackling the 40-gigaton CO2 problem isn’t for the faint of heart, but Yao Huang is all in, turning climate challenges into financial opportunities with some seriously cool tech. After two decades in the tech world, a pandemic epiphany sent her full speed into climate investing, and now she’s using algae photobioreactors (yes, algae!) to capture carbon at scale while creating useful byproducts like oils and fertilizers. She breaks down why traditional VC thinking doesn’t cut it in climate tech, how industries like coal and cement can actually profit from going green, and why collaboration—not competition, is the key to making real change happen. If you think climate solutions are all about sacrifice, Yao’s going to make you rethink everything.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro00:49 - Climate Investing Journey08:27 - Venture Capital in Climate Tech13:57 - Role of Finance in Startups18:00 - Energy Transition vs Climate Problem24:22 - Carbon Clean Technology32:46 - Carbon Optima Business Model34:37 - Unique Aspects of Current Climate Tech37:30 - Factors Behind Carbon Optima's Success40:04 - Activating Support for Climate Initiatives45:15 - Houston's Climate Tech Ecosystem Gaps49:35 - Houston Startup Scene51:03 - Wonder Women Networking Dinners54:27 - Closing Remarkshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
AI and sustainability—two buzzwords that actually make a lot of sense together, especially when you’ve got sharp minds like Robin Goswami and Sandeep Roy putting them to work. These guys built Planckton Data to crack one of the biggest challenges in energy and industrial markets: making carbon footprints actually measurable (instead of just a marketing buzzword). From filling in the massive data gaps in supply chains to helping companies navigate sustainability regulations without drowning in paperwork, they’re proving that AI isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a game-changer. Toss in some wild stories from their careers at Infosys, McKinsey, and even the BP oil spill response, and you’ve got an episode packed with insights, real-world impact, and a little startup chaos.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - EnergyTechNexus Ad00:17 - Introducing Plankton Data02:41 - How Plankton Data’s Product Works07:13 - Sustainability Labels and Compliance Regulations11:02 - Building a Data Model for Sustainability12:28 - Blockchain Technology in Energy18:48 - Career Background Before Plankton Data20:16 - Insights from Sandeep Roy23:05 - AI's Role in IGen28:35 - Transitioning to Start IGen31:00 - Board Membership in Startups35:35 - Identifying Your Customer Base39:40 - Current Stage of Your Journey41:17 - Fundraising Strategies46:33 - Investor Perspectives on Climate Tech49:20 - AI as Infrastructure in Energy50:39 - Vision and Future of Plankton Data52:59 - Outrohttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters
Houston isn’t just the oil and gas capital—it’s shaping up to be the energy innovation hub of the future, and Nada Ahmed and Jason Ethier are right in the middle of it. As the brains behind EnergyTechNexus, they’re building a launchpad for startups tackling the energy trilemma: security, affordability, and sustainability. We’re talking everything from carbon capture to nuclear’s big comeback and how Houston’s industrial muscle makes it the perfect testing ground for game-changing tech. Plus, why they’re betting on “thunder lizards” instead of unicorns and what that means for the next wave of energy startups.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. Check out CleanTechies Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/ @CleanTechiesPod 00:00 - EnergyTech Nexus Ad00:21 - Energy Trilemma00:32 - Podcast Introduction02:29 - Hosts' Check-in07:23 - Goodwin Ad08:17 - Overview of EnergyTech Nexus14:26 - Greentown Labs Houston's Support for Startups14:52 - Collaborations with Green Chemicals Companies17:13 - Future Climate Juggernauts22:18 - Impact of New Administration on Clean Energy25:40 - US Oil Exporting and Price Effects29:24 - Energy Tech Nexus Insights29:40 - Fracking and Methane Capture Techniques32:10 - Climate Tech Positioning Strategies36:15 - Competing with China in Energy38:30 - Energy Deprivation Challenges41:29 - Episode Conclusion42:05 - Nuclear Energy Trajectory Solutions46:57 - Oil Majors' Role in Clean Tech Ecosystem51:55 - Energy Transition and Corporate Investment Strategies54:05 - Strategic Investment Criteria for Startups57:49 - Podcast Outrohttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcattershttps://www.youtube.com/@digitalwildcatters
Plastic doesn’t have to be the villain of the story anymore—Rheom Materials is flipping the script. From brewing kombucha to brewing up a whole new way of thinking about sustainable plastics, they’re proving that bio-based, biodegradable materials can hold their own against petrochemical giants. In this chat, you’ll hear about the wild ride from Zimri T. Hinshaw’s beginnings to Rheom’s breakthrough materials that work with existing manufacturing setups, why Houston’s energy hub is a hot spot for climate tech, and what it takes to scale a startup that’s shaking up an industry. If you’ve ever wondered how innovation meets practicality in the fight against plastic waste, this one’s for you.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - EnergyTech Nexus Ad00:16 - Intro00:24 - Rio Materials02:18 - Moving Away from Plastic05:26 - Scaling with Existing Infrastructure08:12 - Customer Collaboration at Rio Materials16:15 - Keeping Costs Competitive20:00 - Bio-based vs. Petrochemical Pricing21:35 - Rebranding to Rheom Materials27:15 - Differentiating Rheom Materials30:45 - Insights from Customer Testing33:09 - Why Choose Houston?35:45 - Building Houston's Future37:46 - Lessons for Investors in Hard Tech43:29 - Tips for New Entrepreneurs45:20 - Getting Involved in Startups49:27 - Future Plans for Realm51:03 - Future Plans for Covehttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters
Workplace safety just got a serious upgrade thanks to some cutting-edge AI tech that turns your regular ol’ CCTV cameras into safety superheroes. We’re talking about a system that spots hazards, flags unsafe behavior (without naming and shaming), and keeps things running smoothly in high-risk industries like oil and gas. The brains behind this innovation? A safety engineer-turned-entrepreneur who took his experience from Nigeria to Houston and built VisionTech —a game-changer for safety culture. With insights on balancing safety, HR, and management, plus a vision to tackle everything from oil rigs to home offices, this episode dives into the challenges, wins, and future of making workplaces safer with tech that’s as smart as it is practical.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Energy Tech Nexus - Transform Your Startup Journey00:14 - Intro Stephen Ogidan, Founder & CEO of Vision Tech05:14 - Vision Tech Safety Solutions - Improving Workplace Safety09:30 - Employee Comfort with Surveillance - Overcoming Camera Hesitancy11:29 - Product Readiness Timeline - When Will It Launch?12:41 - Managing Alert Systems - Optimizing Safety Notifications16:40 - Combining Safety and Technology - Stephen's Background19:01 - Market Timing - Why Now is Critical for Vision Tech22:31 - Customer Insights - Lessons from Potential Clients26:48 - Future Challenges - Identifying Key Obstacles Ahead31:21 - Networking in Energy Tech - Stephen's Connections33:04 - The Power of Communication - "A Closed Mouth is a Closed Destiny"36:40 - Fundraising Journey - Current Status and Strategy40:00 - Building Investor Credibility - Strategies for Success42:07 - Timing for Entrepreneurship - The Right Moment to Start47:53 - Business Defensibility - Creating Competitive Advantages55:43 - Navigating Regulatory Changes - Adapting to New Laws58:41 - Fostering a Safety Culture - Importance in Business59:38 - Wrapping Up - Key Takeaways from the Discussion1:00:04 - Houston, the Energy Capital of the World - Industry Insightshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters
Energy tech startups face a unique maze of legal pitfalls, and we’re breaking it all down with tips and strategies that could save your company. From dodging toxic investment terms like full ratchets to navigating funding rounds without losing founder control, we’ll unpack what works (and what doesn’t) in this high-stakes world. Ever wonder why project finance often beats venture capital in energy tech? Or how to connect with coastal VCs when you’re rooted in Houston’s energy scene? Whether it’s structuring deals, managing down rounds, or building investor relationships, this convo blends Silicon Valley savvy with Texas grit to give you the inside scoop on steering your startup toward success.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - EnergyTech Nexus00:20 - Introducing Latham & Watkins03:20 - Importance of Energy and Infrastructure Expertise for Startups06:02 - Navigating Long-Tail Engagements: Business Building with Latham & Watkins11:29 - Learning Monetization Strategies in Startups17:06 - Fundraising Red Flags for Startups20:48 - Key Considerations for Founders When Choosing Investors22:54 - Control vs Valuation: Understanding Trade-offs26:27 - Overview of Houston’s Investor Landscape31:15 - Energy Tech Nexus: Your Growth Platform31:32 - Corporate Venture Capital Insights34:58 - Project Level Financing Explained36:41 - Current Trends in the Energy Industry38:15 - Challenges in Fundraising42:02 - Increasing Capital Flow into Houston44:50 - Understanding Startup Valuation49:20 - Risks of High Valuations in Startups55:18 - Creating a Clean Tech Powerhouse59:26 - Founders' Advice for Success1:03:09 - Thank You and Closing Remarkshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters