The IQT Podcast

IQT Explains: Challenges & Opportunities in Critical Mineral Supply Chain Security

In this episode of The IQT Podcast, Dr. Sarah Sewall delves into the world of critical minerals and the challenges facing the United States' supply chain security. Our guests, Nicole Richards, Nick Myers, and Oliver Gunasekara, share their expertise and innovative approaches to address these challenges. From developing biological solutions for rare earth element separation to utilizing autonomous underwater vehicles for critical mineral extraction, these industry leaders are at the forefront of technology and environmental stewardship. Join us as we explore the importance of domestic supply, responsible mining practices, and the need for government support to ensure a sustainable and secure critical minerals supply chain.

 

Key Takeaways

- Challenges in Critical Mineral Supply Chain Security

- Technological Solutions and Applications

- Environmental and Societal Impact

- Future Prospects and Challenges

- Government and International Partnerships

 

Featured in this Episode

Sarah Sewall

EVP, National Innovation Policy, IQT

Website: https://www.iqt.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsewall/

 

Nicole Richards

CEO, Allonnia

Website: https://allonnia.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-richards-3268b07/

 

Nick Myers

CEO, Phoenix Tailings

Website: https://phoenixtailings.com/

Linkedin: ​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholaswilliammyers/

 

Oliver Gunasekara

CEO, Impossible Metals

Website: https://impossiblemetals.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gunasekara/

 

Additional Resources

- Closing the Critical Mineral Gap: https://assets.iqt.org/pdfs/Critical_Minerals_February_2023_final.pdf/web/viewer.html

- Why Will Deep Sea Mining Be Less Expensive Than Traditional Land-based Mining?: https://impossiblemetals.com/blog/why-will-deep-sea-mining-be-less-expensive-than-traditional-land-based-mining/

- Current Status of Deep Sea Mining Regulations: https://impossiblemetals.com/blog/current-status-of-deep-sea-mining-regulations/

IQT Explains: Maritime Innovation in the Open Source

In this episode, host Vishal Sandesara and guest Michael Chadwick from IQT Labs discuss maritime innovation in the open source and maker communities. They cover IQT Labs' involvement in the maritime domain, challenges of AI algorithm data collection, and the spillover benefits of open source aerial drone contributions. Tune in as they highlight projects like the AI Sonobuoy, showcasing cutting-edge developments in maritime technology.

 

Topics

• Accessibility of Open Source Technology
• Government Interest in Maritime Technology Advancement
• Challenges Faced by the Maker Community
• Data Collection and Labeling for AI Algorithms
• IQT Labs Initiatives

 

Featured in this Episode

Vishal Sandesara

VP, Operations

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals/

 

Michael Chadwick

SVP, Deputy Director, IQT Labs

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-chadwick-37208865/

 

Mentioned in this Episode

MakerBuoy (Wayne Pavalko)

https://www.instagram.com/makerbuoy/

IQT Explains: Accelerating VC Activity in Maritime Innovation

In this episode of The IQT Podcast, host Vishal Sandesara leads a discussion on the accelerating venture capital activity in maritime innovation. Guests Diana Keenan, Abi Sivananthan, and Kevin Schaeffer delve into global maritime technology developments and the corresponding investment landscape. The conversation covers the different domains of maritime technology, including surface and subsurface exploration and the evolving market trends driven by advancements in enabling technologies. Tune in to learn all about the potential impact of maritime innovation on national security, commercial applications, and global geopolitics.

 

Key Topics

- Maritime Technology and Investment Landscape

- Enabling Technologies in Maritime Innovation

- Predictions for Future Developments in Maritime Innovation

- Leveraging Commercial Innovation

 

Featured in this Episode

Vishal Sandesara

VP, Operations

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals/

 

Abi Sivananthan

Senior Technology Architect, Intelligent Connectivity

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abirami-sivananthan-9b362b23/

 

Diana Keenan

Senior Associate

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-keenan-cfa/

 

Kevin Schaeffer

VP, Advanced Systems

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-schaeffer-39a4404/

The Intersection: When Venture Meets Mission

In this episode of The IQT Podcast, host Steve Bowsher interviews Arun Gupta, a venture capitalist, Adjunct Entrepreneurship Professor at Georgetown University, and author of "Venture Meets Mission." Arun discusses bridging the gap between aspiring entrepreneurs and public service, inspiring the next generation to let mission guide them in their careers. The episode explores attracting talent for national security challenges and the evolving landscape of mission-driven ventures. Tune in to learn more about the dynamic intersection of technology and national security!

 

Topics

Educating Students About Government Service Opportunities

The Inspiration Behind “Venture Meets Mission”

Lowering the Average Age of the Tech Workforce in Government

Leveraging Job Hopping Culture

Mission vs. Money

 

Featured in this Episode

Steve Bowsher

CEO, IQT

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-bowsher-a039b826/

IQT Website: https://www.iqt.org

 

Arun Gupta

CEO, NobleReach

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arungupta23/ 

Venture Meets Mission Book: https://www.amazon.com/Venture-Meets-Mission-Aligning-Transform/dp/1503636283

NobleReach Website: https://noblereachfoundation.org/

The Intersection: Executing Innovation on a Mission

In this episode of The Intersection, we explore the dynamic realm where innovation meets mission execution. Our usual host and newly appointed CEO, Steve Bowsher, takes the passenger seat this week, allowing IQT’s editorial director, Martin Giles, to take the wheel. With Steve as the interviewee, we get the chance to learn how IQT has been the premier partner trusted to identify, evaluate, and leverage emerging commercial technologies for the national security community for nearly 25 years. Listen in to learn about the enduring success of IQT, the organization’s adept navigation of the intricate landscape of public-private partnerships, and how IQT shapes and deploys emerging technologies for government agencies. Prepare for a captivating discussion on the future of innovation and its profound impact on mission-driven organizations.

 

Topics

Introduction to IQT and its Mission

Steve’s Background and Silicon Valley Experience

Overcoming Challenges in Connecting the Public and Private Sectors

IQT's Impact on Government Agencies

Becoming a Global Organization

Investment Strategies

Trust & Differentiation at IQT

Shifting Trends in Supply Chain Management

Facilitating Adoption of Technologies

Aligning Capital Stacks for Strategic Innovation

 

Featured in this Episode

Martin Giles

Editorial Director, IQT

Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinpgiles/

 

Steve Bowsher

President & CEO, IQT

Profile: https://www.iqt.org/about-iqt/#modal-bio-05788d2f-6741-43c7-86a4-e46c89ab1aa9

IQT Explains: How Resilient is America’s Positioning, Navigation, & Timing Data?

This episode of The IQT Podcast delves into the world of positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) data, which plays a critical part in supporting modern economies and infrastructure. This often overlooked, invisible aspect of our daily lives is crucial for synchronizing financial transactions, transportation, and navigation services. However, satellite-based PNT data is vulnerable to disruptions, which can have catastrophic consequences for our economy and national security. IQT's Abi Sivananthan, along with Dana Goward, President of the Resilient Navigation and Timing Foundation, join Dr. Sarah Sewall to discuss the resilience of PNT data and what the United States can do to enhance its security. Join us as we explore the nuances of this critical area for innovation and national security.

 

Topics

• The Importance of PNT Data for National Security and Economic Activity

• Enhancing the Resilience of PNT Data in the United States

• Technological Evolution of Satellite Provided PNT

• Security Concerns and Vulnerabilities of Satellite Provided PNT

• Modernization and the Limitations of GPS Satellites

 

Featured in this Episode

Sarah Sewall

Executive Vice President, National Innovation Policy (IQT)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsewall/

 

Dana Goward

President of the Resilient Navigation and Timing Foundation

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-a-goward-3631bb51/

 

Abi Sivananthan

Senior Technology Architect, Intelligent Connectivity (IQT)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/abirami-sivananthan-9b362b23/

IQT Explains: The Future of the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS)

In this episode of The IQT Podcast, host Dr. Sarah Sewall is joined by guests Dr. Scott Pace and Steve Poizner to discuss the future of the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS). They delve into the development of GPS, its importance in both civilian life and military capabilities, and the challenges it faces in staying ahead of other global navigation satellite systems. The episode sheds light on the crucial role GPS plays in our modern world and explores potential solutions for its continued success. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding GPS and why it is sometimes referred to as “the invisible utility.”

 

Topics

• Historical and Policy Perspectives on GPS

• The Future of GPS and GNSS

• Challenges in Upgrades and Modernization

• Commercial Uses and Reliability of GPS

• Implications and Advocacy for GPS Modernization

 

Featured in this Episode

Sarah Sewall

IQT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsewall/

 

Steve Poizner

OneNav

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevepoizner/

 

Scott Pace

George Washington University

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pace-4011311/

IQT Explains: Fintech

In this episode of IQT Explains, Rita Waite and Ming Luo join our Vishal Sandesara to discuss fintech from their unique perspectives as an investor and technologist, respectively. Hear more about the evolution of currency exchange, global trends in fintech, and regional differences in payment etiquette. While recent developments in digital payment methods have allowed for a new level of consumer convenience, they have also led to record amounts of fraud and identity theft. This episode focuses on what is currently being done and what can be done in the future to enhance digital security so that we can continue to reap the benefits of financial technology without succumbing to the risks.

 

Topics

• Introduction to Fintech and its Impact on the Financial Landscape
• Fintech Revolution and Digital Payments
• Fraud and Identity Verification Issues in Fintech
• Evolving Stages of Fintech
• Opportunities and Concerns in Fintech
• Risk Assessment and Challenges in Fintech
• Security vs. Convenience
• Global Trends and Leaders in Fintech

 

IQT’s website: https://www.iqt.org/

 

Featured in this Episode

Vishal Sandesara

VP Operations, IQT Labs

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishals

 

Rita Waite

Principal

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritacwaite/

 

Ming Luo

VP, Technology

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ming-luo-312b775

The Intersection Podcast: Exploring the Nexus of AI & Quantum

Welcome to the IQT Podcast! In this episode, IQT’s Steve Bowsher hosts SandBoxAQ CEO, Jack Hidary, to explore interdisciplinary collaboration, GPU-driven drug breakthroughs, and SandboxAQ's unique navigation capabilities. Join Steve and Jack as they discuss the power of combining AI and quantum to produce dual-use technology that allows us to safely navigate the globe. Jack also introduces us to SandboxAQ’s education initiative which provides strategic frameworks for C-suite leaders, in-depth curricula for engineers, and meaningful collaborations with academic institutions, ensuring holistic comprehension of emerging technologies. Discover limitless potential at the intersection of AI and quantum. Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways:

- Transformative Impact in Diverse Fields

- GPUs Revolutionizing Drug Development

- Free Tools for Upskilling with SandboxAQ EDU

- Fusion of Disciplines for Positive Impact

- Advancing Chemistries and Quantum Techniques

- Quantum-Safe Encryption and Cybersecurity

- Frontier Technology in National Security

- GPUs' Influence in Driving Innovation

- Technology's Role in the Conflict in Ukraine

- The Dangers of GPS Jamming

- Using Magnetic Fields to Navigate the Globe

- The Importance of Dual-Use Technology

 

Featured in this Episode:

- Jack Hidary, SandboxAQ CEO: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackhidary/

- Company Website: https://www.sandboxaq.com

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sandboxaq 

The Intersection: Memoirs of a Life in Intelligence, Special Ops, & Strategy

In this episode of The Intersection, IQT's Steve Bowsher is joined by Dr. Michael Vickers, a former special forces and CIA operations officer, who shares experiences from his 40+ year career in intelligence and special operations. From his time as a Green Beret to his vision for victory in Afghanistan, Dr. Vickers provides first hand insights into the highest levels of government.

Discover the vital relationship between defense and intelligence as Dr. Vickers stresses the importance of collaboration between the CIA and the Department of Defense in safeguarding our national security. Gain a deeper understanding of the intriguing competition between the United States and China in pivotal areas such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. Prepare to be captivated by the experiences detailed in Dr. Vickers' new book, "By All Means Available: Memoirs of a Life in Intelligence, Special Operations, and Strategy." Join us as Dr. Michael Vickers offers invaluable insights into the world of national security amidst today's rapidly evolving technological landscape.