Robert Masse is the founder of Astrolabe Analytics, a battery-software startup improving safety and extending the life of battery-powered fleets. Backed by the U.S. Air Force and National Science Foundation, Astrolabe bridges research and industry through predictive analytics and smart-battery management systems. In this episode, Robert shares how he turned 15 years of research into real-world impact — and what's next for global battery innovation.

Episode Highlights
• Life in Wisconsin → Seattle's startup scene
• Winning Air Force & NSF contracts without traditional fundraising
• LFP vs. sodium-ion batteries — what's next
• Cobalt mining & DRC supply-chain challenges
• Predictive analytics & battery-management software
• Recycling & repurposing used batteries
• Storytelling & finding your perfect customer
• Building teams & scaling internationally

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Guest Bio (Condensed)
Robert Masse is the Founder & CEO of Astrolabe Analytics, a battery-intelligence company extending the safety, performance, and life of energy-storage systems. With a PhD in Materials Science from the University of Washington and over 15 years of research experience at UW, PNNL, and the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Robert translates scientific discovery into commercial software that powers the clean-energy revolution.

Guest Links
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcmasse
Website – https://astrolabe-analytics.com
X (Twitter) – @astrolabeinc

Robert's Advice
"Don't be a coward — and don't quit."

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Topics Discussed (for Libsyn Notes)
• Robert's journey from academic research to entrepreneurship
• Securing Air Force and NSF grants as non-traditional funding
• Predictive analytics and battery management systems
• Supply-chain ethics and cobalt mining in the DRC
• LFP and sodium-ion advancements
• Battery recycling and second-life applications
• Finding the right customer fit and narrative for deep-tech sales
• Building teams and international collaboration
• The future of battery tech and AI-driven safety software

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