Energy Tech Startups

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.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click 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.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click 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.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click 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.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click 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.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click 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.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click 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.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click 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.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click 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

Ever thought about how to make EV charging smarter and greener? Wind Everest is turning wind energy into a game-changer for electric vehicles, and Robert Rolnik is at the helm of it all. Picture an app that works like a weather report for wind power—letting you know the best times to charge to slash carbon emissions by up to 90%. Texas might be just warming up to EVs, but with 7-8% of new car sales already electric, the potential is massive. Robert’s path from telecom engineer to cleantech innovator is packed with insights, from tackling the quirks of Texas’ deregulated electricity market to figuring out how EVs can help stabilize the grid. Wind Everest isn’t stopping at personal cars either—think fleets, delivery services, and even military vehicles. It’s innovation with a side of saving the planet.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Energy Tech Startups00:16 - WindEverest Overview06:06 - Wind Energy & Electric Vehicles09:47 - Robert Rolnik's Background11:36 - Software Development Journey14:32 - Griddy vs. Renewable Energy Plans20:00 - Legal Aspects of 100% Renewable Energy25:00 - Ad: Energy Tech Nexus27:30 - EV Drivers' Perspectives on ION Energy31:39 - Electric Vehicle Subsidies34:51 - Addressing Range Anxiety39:50 - WindEverest's Business Model43:14 - Houston's Energy Tech Ecosystem48:05 - Contacting Robert Rolnik49:00 - App Release Timelinehttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters

When it comes to bringing manufacturing back to the US, reshoring isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a game plan, and Mush Khan from Alchemy Industrial is in the thick of it. From building game-changing energy storage systems to figuring out how AI and robotics can shake up the factory floor, Mush is rethinking what it means to make stuff in America. He’s got big ideas about how Houston can lead the charge in energy and manufacturing innovation, and he’s not shy about tackling the challenges of hardware startups, workforce gaps, and the wild ride that is decentralizing power systems. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to rebuild an industrial powerhouse in today’s world, this conversation is packed with the grit and vision to inspire.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro00:31 - Alchemy Industrial Overview07:26 - Alchemy Industrial's Journey12:22 - Manufacturing Energy Storage Systems17:28 - Alchemy's Product Overview19:34 - Enchanted Rock & HEB Backup Power23:12 - Inflation Reduction Act Insights25:14 - Early Adopters of Energy Technology28:15 - Microgrid Innovations32:14 - EnergyTechNexus: Platform for Growth32:30 - Power Disruptions in Texas36:50 - Frequency of Power Loss43:24 - Funding Education in Energy47:50 - Fundraising for Hard Tech Startups50:54 - Houston's Position in Energy Transition53:10 - Insights from Houston Climate Week55:32 - Successful Events at Houston Climate Week1:02:30 - Audience Support Opportunitieshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters

Sean Kelly, CEO of Amperon, joins this episode of the Energy Tech Startups Podcast to share how his company is transforming energy forecasting through AI-driven solutions tailored to every electron on the grid. He delves into the inception of Amperon and the unique challenges they face in predicting future energy demands. Sean discusses how traditional forecasting methods struggle to keep up with the rapid pace of the energy sector and explains Amperon's adaptive AI models, which are setting new standards in reliability and efficiency. Listeners gain insights into energy market dynamics, Amperon’s customer-centric approach, and Sean's vision for the future as AI reshapes the industry.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro00:27 - Amperon's Problem Solving02:32 - Data Acquisition at Amperon04:35 - Amperon's Customer Base09:11 - Customer Data Utilization11:59 - Importance of Energy Forecasting17:55 - Network Effects in Energy Systems19:25 - Model Prediction Explanation20:40 - Automating Data Adjustments21:40 - Transition from Google Cloud to Azure28:06 - Sean's Startup Journey31:44 - ETL and Winter Storm URI Crisis37:35 - Gaining Customer Insight40:05 - Fundraising Experiences48:00 - Learning from Failures51:30 - Houston's Innovation Landscape55:25 - Climate Impact Initiatives58:05 - Supporting Amperonhttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters

Imagine slashing admin time by 80% while tackling the energy transition—sounds like a dream, right? That’s the reality with NetBenefits Software, where AI is shaking up how energy companies manage stakeholder relationships and regulatory hoops. From keeping projects on track to navigating the tricky waters of social license to operate, Matt Adams and his team are leading the charge with a fresh, contrarian approach to energy tech. We’re talking smarter data management, smoother compliance, and a vision for AI that’s all about making energy work better for everyone.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro00:51 - NetBenefits Software03:42 - Social License to Operate Explained09:05 - AI Applications in NetBenefits12:31 - Significance of Local Content20:10 - Measuring Externalities in Energy24:46 - Assessing the Energy Transition28:35 - Changes in Labour Force Dynamics30:04 - Understanding Your Product's Market32:40 - US vs Canada: Market Differences36:49 - SCI's Expansion to Houston40:00 - Funding Journey Insights45:22 - Houston’s Hidden Gem Revealed47:14 - Supporting NetBenefits Softwarehttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters

William shares his journey from the oil and gas industry to developing cutting-edge underground energy storage solutions. He explains how salt dome caverns can be used for long-duration energy storage, helping to support renewable energy growth.Throughout the episode, William discusses the challenges and opportunities in the current energy market, from regulatory hurdles to technological advancements. His story showcases the shift from traditional oil projects to sustainable, innovative solutions in energy storage.00:00 - Energy Tech Nexus00:16 - Intro William Taggart IV00:59 - Cavern Energy Storage04:32 - Research Focus Areas06:26 - Cavern Energy Storage Patent07:57 - Importance of 400 Meters12:26 - Salt Domes for Storage17:34 - Advanced Drilling Technology18:41 - Technology Risks and Challenges19:46 - Market Challenges in Energy Storage22:49 - Understanding the Energy Trilemma24:55 - Long-Duration Energy Storage Defined27:18 - Volatility and Consumer Impact29:50 - Energy Tech Nexus: Growth Platform30:02 - Fundraising Journey Insights32:54 - Grant Funding Process Explained34:05 - Exposing Technology to DOE36:35 - Entrepreneurial Journey of William Taggart38:58 - Fixing America's Energy Issues44:18 - Race to the Bottom in Energy45:16 - Addressing Climate Change50:30 - Innovation Ecosystem in Houston54:33 - Discovering Hidden Gems55:14 - Supporting Cavern Energy56:49 - Finding Dr. Webber Onlinehttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcatters/https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.

Hermann discusses how Alma Energy is revolutionizing the industry with cutting-edge advancements in direct lithium extraction, making the process greener and more efficient. He explains how AI is optimizing extraction processes and highlights the economic impact of these innovations on the energy transition.Hermann also delves into the challenges and opportunities in the oil and gas sector as it shifts towards cleaner technologies, offering a fresh perspective on repurposing existing infrastructure for new energy solutions. Alma Energy is at the forefront of this transformation, pioneering sustainable approaches in the industry.00:00 - Intro00:16 - Alma Energy Overview04:09 - Natural Lithium Sources11:28 - CO2 Sequestration with Rocks13:26 - Traditional Lithium Extraction Methods17:35 - System Placement Considerations21:02 - E3 Metals Current Phase23:54 - Power Consumption of the System25:20 - Sodium Management Strategies26:18 - Additional Brine Extractables27:43 - Lithium-ion vs Solid State Batteries29:36 - Baseload Pilot Readiness31:38 - Water Sample Collection Methods33:49 - Elysium Funding and Pilot Plans39:30 - Investor Targeting for Pilot42:38 - Best Practices in Well Drilling44:59 - Partner Expectations and Returns47:38 - Transition from Corporations to Startups53:34 - Startup Ecosystem Support57:40 - Contacting Alma Energyhttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcatters/https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.

Patrick shares how his company is turning tedious processes, like DMV tasks and education enrollment, into seamless, efficient experiences through innovative document management solutions.In this episode, you'll learn how AI is simplifying data entry and document handling, boosting efficiency and security across industries like education, energy, and regulatory compliance. Patrick also dives into the unique branding and marketing journey that sets UnicornForms apart in the tech landscape.Guest Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickwaldo/Company Site: https://www.unicornforms.com/CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro04:28 - School Form Filling Process09:16 - Data Protection in Unicorn Forms13:39 - Overview of Unicorn Forms20:10 - Use Cases for Energy Tech22:16 - AI in Solar and Wind Project Management25:45 - Collaborating with Government Agencies27:18 - Tagging and Labeling Challenges31:54 - Fundraising Journey Insights34:50 - Investor Expectations and Criteria39:22 - Capital Factory Overview41:00 - Fundraising Necessity for Startups46:00 - When to Delegate Tasks Effectively48:02 - Evolution of Marketing Strategies51:17 - Favorite Hidden Gems in Houston55:10 - Call to Action for Viewershttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcatters/https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.

OceanBit is pioneering the use of ocean thermal energy to deliver 24/7 renewable power, while also providing cooling solutions for data centers, helping to reduce operational costs in high-density computing environments.Nathaniel shares how OceanBit integrates AI to optimize energy use, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. He also delves into the history of ocean thermal energy and how recent technological advancements have positioned OceanBit as a leader in sustainable energy. With a focus on geographic and innovative solutions, Nathaniel envisions a future where small island nations can prosper without the heavy financial burden of high energy costs.00:00 - Intro01:40 - How Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) Works04:25 - Environmental Impact of OTEC05:45 - OTEC for Carbon Removal10:15 - OTEC Mechanisms (Continued)13:42 - History of OTEC20:25 - Why Now for OTEC?21:28 - High Density Compute Applications26:14 - Bitcoin Mining and Energy Tech29:37 - Energy Tech Nexus Overview32:35 - OceanBit's Houston Initiatives37:55 - OTEC Accelerator Insights40:43 - Surprises About Houston43:39 - Climate Impact Story46:10 - Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) Deep Dive48:45 - Hawaii’s Innovation Community53:15 - OceanBit’s Next Milestones55:52 - OceanBit's Fundraising Progress58:07 - Supporting Ocean-Based Energyhttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcatters/https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.

Sujatha explains how Dsider’s innovative technoeconomic analysis is helping startups in cleantech and hard tech make smarter decisions by assessing their projects from both technical and economic perspectives. Through a role-play scenario, Jason steps into the shoes of a founder, offering a hands-on look at how Dsider’s solutions address real-world challenges.Key takeaways include the importance of integrating technical and financial data, communicating effectively with investors, and using simulations to predict and mitigate risks in industrial projects.Here is a link to demo https://docsend.com/view/sjepqcyrjrfbrzhvHere is a link to the white paper: https://docsend.com/view/aaidwxvy25bmdyjuhttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcatters/https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.

Benjamin discusses the exciting opportunities and unique challenges in building and supporting energy tech startups across Latin America and the Caribbean. He shares how Reciprocal’s mission focuses on fostering innovation through nature-based solutions, bridging the gap between the global North and Latin America.Key topics include Reciprocal's venture studio model, the importance of nature-based solutions in climate strategy, funding strategies for early-stage startups in emerging markets, and the crucial role of indigenous communities and local governance in driving sustainable innovation. Discover how energy, climate, and ecological systems are deeply interconnected in the push for a greener future in the region.https://www.linkedin.com/in/benzehr/https://reciprocal.studio/CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:30 - What is Reciprocal06:22 - The Amazon Fellowship13:59 - Nature-Based Solutions and Energy15:45 - Focus on Nature-Based Solutions18:01 - Monetizing Nature-Based Solutions25:00 - Starting a Startup Studio28:46 - Finding Founders in Tech34:04 - Why Houston for Startups36:04 - California: Climate Tech Hub39:58 - Houston's Startup Landscape45:14 - Gaps in Houston's Startup Ecosystem48:20 - Ecosystems in Houston Region50:25 - Houston Energy Tech Summithttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcatters/https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.

Erik shares his journey from working at DNV to founding Endrava, where he’s developed cutting-edge solutions for industrial decarbonization.With over a decade of experience in climate tech, Erik discusses his work on CapturMap, a platform that maps global CO2 emission sources and capture projects. His insights into energy and industrial markets, along with his passion for sustainability, showcase how digital tools are accelerating progress toward a cleaner future.00:00 - Welcome back1:27 - What is CaptureMap4:11 - How did you commercialize CaptureMap5:34 - Who are your ideal customers6:56 - What kind of emissions are you displaying7:39 - How do people interact with CaptureMap9:05 - Your journey hasn’t been linear13:57 - Why now16:50 - Bootstrapping vs. VC funding18:25 - What’s next for Captur21:27 - Exit strategy24:09 - Founder relationship29:32 - What makes entrepreneurs special31:20 - Importance of learning from mistakes32:45 - Outsourcing vs doing everything yourself35:09 - Selling software is hard40:24 - Building a community around your company43:15 - Houston46:57 - Do you need feet on the ground50:35 - Closing55:35 - Personal climate impact story59:30 - Climate change and mass migration1:01:15 - How to support climate tech startupshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcatters/https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.

Fresh off their win at the Rice Lily Pitch Competition, Sean and Chen-Yang share their journey from PhD students at Rice University to pioneering entrepreneurs tackling the critical issues of energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.In this episode, they discuss how their material science background led to the development of advanced heat management solutions, addressing inefficiencies caused by poor thermal conductivity in traditional semiconductor packaging. With AI and GPU technologies on the rise, HEXASpec is at the forefront of creating next-generation materials to meet the growing demands for efficient heat management. Sean and Chen-Yang also reveal the importance of customer feedback, which prompted them to pivot from HVAC applications to the semiconductor industry, showing how adaptability is key to startup success.00:00 - Intro01:00 - What is Heat Management05:20 - Current Materials in Use08:15 - Discovering and Developing New Material10:52 - Market Entry Strategy16:43 - Pivoting in Business20:30 - Market Research for Beginners21:24 - Building a Prototype23:05 - Fundraising Tips29:02 - Lessons from Competitions35:49 - Student Entrepreneurship39:37 - Houston’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem42:04 - Houston’s Hidden Gems47:21 - Innovation Ecosystem Gaps49:40 - Supporting NanoSono50:13 - Founders' Podcast Thoughtshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcatters/https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.