Dirty Scrap The Aluminum Podcast

A lot of fun hosting the live recording of the DIRTY SCRAP Podcast during the The Aluminum Association Spring Meeting in Austin, Texas.Huge thanks to Kelly Thomas, Murray Rudisill and Chuck Johnson for an incredibly honest and high-level conversation about the future of the aluminum industry.We discussed some of the most important topics shaping our industry today: The strategic importance of aluminum scrap and recycling The future of automation, AI, and sorting technologies Workforce challenges and operational transformation Energy, geopolitics, tariffs, and supply chain resilience Why aluminum is no longer just a commodity — it’s becoming a strategic material for the futureOne of the biggest takeaways from the conversation:The future of aluminum will depend on better collaboration between recyclers, foundries, technology providers, policymakers, and the next generation entering the industry.Very grateful to the Aluminum Association for creating spaces where the industry can come together to openly discuss challenges, opportunities, and the long-term vision for manufacturing and recycling in North America.The aluminum industry is evolving fast — and conversations like this are exactly what move the industry forward. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap, Julio Quintero sits down with Joe Quinn from SAFE (Securing America’s Future Energy) for a deep conversation about the future of aluminum, manufacturing, energy policy, recycling, AI infrastructure, and national security.This episode explores why aluminum is becoming one of the most strategic materials for the U.S. economy and how primary production, secondary recycling, infrastructure, energy, automation, and supply chains are shaping the next industrial era.Topics covered in this episode: Aluminum as a strategic material U.S. manufacturing and reindustrialization Primary vs secondary aluminum production Aluminum recycling and scrap supply chains Energy policy and industrial infrastructure AI, data centers, and aluminum demand Labor shortages and automation in manufacturing U.S. vs China industrial competition The future of aluminum over the next decadeGuest: Joe QuinnHost: Julio QuinteroIf you work in aluminum recycling, foundry operations, die casting, manufacturing, energy, or industrial technology, this episode provides valuable insight into where the industry is heading. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap Podcast, we sit down with Scott Breen, President of the Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI), the organization representing U.S. metal can manufacturers and their suppliers.Scott leads CMI’s industry strategy, serves as the chief spokesperson with policymakers and media, and oversees the organization’s culture and operations. He also brings a unique perspective from his role as Chair of The Recycling Partnership’s Board of Directors, and from his previous work at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and NOAA.In this conversation, we explore:Why the U.S. aluminum can recycling rate remains around 43%Why fixing sorting alone won’t get us to 70–90% recyclingThe role of deposit return systems and infrastructureHow fragmented recycling programs limit performanceWhat truly scales in aluminum circularity—and what doesn’tThis episode is especially relevant for professionals in:aluminum recycling, scrap processing, MRF operations, sustainability strategy, and industrial manufacturing.🎧 Listen to understand what’s really holding recycling back—and what could finally move the needle This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast, we sit down with Nick from High Temperature Systems to discuss what’s really happening on the foundry floor in 2025.We cover:Why tariffs didn’t translate into new investmentSupply chain disruptions and rising lead timesThe gap between automation and operational know-howSafety risks tied to preheating, training, and process disciplineA practical conversation for anyone working with molten metal, recycling, or foundry operations.🎧 Listen, learn, and stay sharp. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this conversation, Aldo shares more than 20 years of experience across operations, commercial strategy, logistics, and global metal trading. We explore how the industry is evolving and what new generations need to know as they enter the field.Topics CoveredImmigration, workforce shortages & generational knowledge lossWhy younger talent is not entering manufacturing — and how to fix itHow tariffs and Section 232 are reshaping risk, pricing, and investmentGlobal competition: What Asia & Europe do differentlyTechnology adoption and why the U.S. is behindRecycling rates: Why the U.S. lags and what’s needed to improveMarket uncertainty and pricing strategy in volatile timesThe real challenges recyclers face in sourcing manpowerVertical integration and why aluminum is leading over copperHow small & mid-size yards can scale using new commercial modelsThe role of mentorship, conferences, and knowledge-sharing in the next decadeGuestAldo — Founder of The Metal Agency, with extensive background in operations, sourcing, international trading, and commercial optimization in the non-ferrous sector.Why This Episode MattersIf you're in metals, manufacturing, recycling, logistics, or plant operations, this conversation gives you actionable clarity on where the industry is heading and what leaders need to prepare for. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Guest: Amy Hinton, North American Scrap Editor — FastmarketsHost: Julio Quintero, Dirty Scrap PodcastTopics discussed:Tariffs and their real impact on U.S. producers and recyclersThe nearshoring dilemma: cost, energy, and complianceTransparency vs. complexity in the new trade environmentLabor and energy challenges for aluminum smeltersThe evolving U.S.–Mexico–Canada (USMCA) trade dynamicMarket volatility and the role of Fastmarkets in providing clarityTakeaway:👉 The metals market is being reshaped by tariffs, transparency, and turbulence — and those who adapt fastest will define the next decade of U.S. recycling and production. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap, host Julio Quintero sits down with Beatriz Landa, VP of Metal Procurement & Planning at Novelis, to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities shaping the aluminum industry.From her unique journey — professional soccer player, lawyer, McKinsey consultant, and now a senior executive at Novelis — to leading strategies that aim for 75% recycled content by 2030, Beatriz shares an inspiring perspective on leadership, sustainability, and industry transformation.🔑 What you’ll learn in this episode:How the aluminum market shifted from a seller’s to a buyer’s market in just months.Why tariffs and policy uncertainty in Washington are reshaping supply chains.The role of scrap flexibility and technology in boosting recycling efficiency.Novelis’ long-term strategy: 75% recycled content and The story behind Women in Novelis and how diversity initiatives are changing plant culture.Insights on recycling rates: Why Europe hits 90–95% UBC recovery while the U.S. lags at 45–50%.Why collaboration between primary and secondary aluminum is essential for the industry’s future.✨ Beatriz also delivers a strong message to women in manufacturing: “This industry is exciting, growing, and sustainable — we need more women to join us.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

What will the U.S.–Canada relationship look like in 2025?Aluminum has become the real thermometer of this bilateral relationship:📉 Trade tensions with tariffs ranging from 25% to 50%⚡ A shared climate agenda focused on recycling and decarbonization🏭 Direct impact on automotive, aerospace, construction, and packaging🔧 Technological opportunities: induction furnaces, continuous billet casting, and scrap drying/decoating systemsIn this video we explore:The interdependence of aluminum trade between the U.S. and CanadaThe effects of Section 232 and retaliatory measuresHow sustainability and carbon policies could unite both nationsThe emerging opportunities for industry and technology providers👉 Subscribe for more insights on the future of aluminum, recycling, and manufacturing in North America.💬 Share your thoughts in the comments: are we facing a long-term trade war, or just another chapter in the story of two inevitable allies?#Aluminum #USCanada #Recycling #Manufacturing #Trade This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Dirty Scrap Podcast 🎙️ | The Long Way HomeIn this episode, we dive into The Long Way Home — a project that goes beyond aluminum and recycling to explore the human side of sustainability.🌍 Coming from Colombia, where poverty is a daily reality, I connect my personal story with the global challenges of equity, industry, and environmental responsibility.We talk about:♻️ Why sustainability in aluminum is also a social issue🚀 How recycling and circular economy projects expand into new industries🌐 The role of purpose-driven initiatives like The Long Way Home in shaping a better future👉 Don’t miss this conversation about aluminum, recycling, and the deeper meaning of sustainability.💬 Share your thoughts in the comments — how do you see the link between industry and social impact?#DirtyScrapPodcast #TheLongWayHome #Aluminum #Recycling #Sustainability #CircularEconomyhttps://lwhome.org/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode, Chuck Johnson joins us to break down the current state of U.S. aluminum tariff policies and their impact across the supply chain — from producers and recyclers to manufacturers and end users.We cover:– Why aluminum tariffs continue to shape the market– How trade policy decisions influence domestic capacity– The challenges and opportunities facing U.S. aluminum– What could change in the coming weeksIf you're in the aluminum industry or simply want to understand how trade policy affects critical materials, this conversation offers timely insights. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

If you're in the aluminum game, ALUMINUM USA is where you need to be. Taking place May 28-29 in Nashville, TN, this is the premier industry event is bringing together producers, fabricators, suppliers, and innovators from across the entire value chain. Whether you're dealing in scrap, smelting, or high-tech applications, this is your chance to network, learn, and stay ahead of the curve. ALUMINUM USA is where the future of aluminum takes shape. Get a FREE ticket ($100 value) by visiting 🎁aluminumusa2025.com/freeticket This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this special episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast, we talk with Robin Wiener, President of REMA (formerly ISRI), about the impact of global transformation on recycling, tariff policies, trade challenges, and strengthening international relationships. 🌎♻️An essential conversation to understand where the industry is heading and how we can build a more resilient and sustainable future. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this insightful conversation, Julio Quintero sits down with Chuck Johnson, President of the Aluminum Association USA, to explore the current landscape and future of the aluminum industry. Together, they dive deep into the global challenges shaping the sector—trade policies, energy demands, and sustainability trends—and discuss how the U.S. aluminum industry is adapting and preparing for what's next. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap Podcast, I talk with Judith Jenny, Managing Director of Austin AI Europe, about how LIPS technology is transforming aluminum recycling. 🛠️ Judith shares insights into why LIPS outperforms XRF and how it’s driving efficiency, sustainability, and profitability in the recycling industry. 🌍We also dive into her professional journey and the groundbreaking innovations Austin AI is spearheading. If you’re curious about how this technology is bridging the gap between scrap yards and foundries, this episode is a must-watch! 💡 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Avishai, Co-founder and CEO of Bamboozle, is redefining the landscape of sustainability and home innovation. Through his visionary leadership, Bamboozle has transformed the way we view domestic composting with its sleek and functional countertop bin. Merging culinary artistry, design, technology, and science, Avishai is committed to finding harmony between sustainability and modern consumerism. By pioneering cutting-edge plant-based materials, he is making recycling and biodegradability not just an option, but an accessible and stylish reality for households worldwide. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap, I talk with Matts Larsson, founder of the Global Energy Transformation Institute, about the challenges and opportunities in the shift toward sustainability and electrification. We explore key topics such as the role of electric vehicles (EVs), the need for updated energy infrastructure, and how the circular economy can support sustainable development. Matts also shares his perspective on the influence of China in battery production and the importance of thoughtful planning in achieving these goals. A straightforward discussion on the changes shaping the future of industries This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap Podcast, we sit down with the CEO of Regenx to explore the shift from traditional mining to sustainable practices and green technologies. Learn how Regenx is driving the circular economy by recycling critical metals like platinum and palladium from catalytic converters, reducing CO2 emissions, and optimizing resources. Discover insights on scaling eco-friendly processes, supply chain challenges, and how the future of recycling impacts industries beyond just metals. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Schermerhorn, an attorney specializing in intellectual property and climate change. We discuss how sustainability trends are shaping industries across North America, from recycling to green tech innovation. Ryan shares insights on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s Climate Change Mitigation Pilot Program, which accelerates patents for eco-friendly technologies, and how companies can leverage intellectual property to drive sustainable change. Tune in for expert advice on protecting innovations that reduce CO2 emissions and explore how clean technology is transforming industries like aluminum recycling, energy efficiency, and more! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This video covers the potential effects of relaxed CO2 regulations and new tariffs on Chinese EVs and aluminum on the U.S. aluminum recycling industry This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Traditionally, primary casthouses solidified the molten primary aluminum from the potlines into ingot or sow, or produced primary alloy ingots, billets or slabs.  Secondary casthouses served to convert scrap into secondary aluminum ingots, billets, or slabs. Today, the global trend to sustainability, circular economy - and therefore maximizing recycling and minimizing carbon footprint, has led to almost every casthouse needing to integrate scrap into its production mix. Secondary casthouses no longer solely produce higher impurity secondary alloys, but also high-quality ingots, billets and slabs with highest possible recycling content. This trend is changing the way we are recycling, the way we sort and treat scrap, and the way modern secondary casthouses need to be designed with energy efficiency, optimum recovery and metal quality in the focus. We are working on improving ideally closed-loop recycling where possible, and best possible integration of recycling content in aluminum products. Beside the input material, the melting step is the most energy and carbon intensive process in a secondary casthouse. Selecting the right furnace technology for each scrap type and available energy is therefore vital for maximizing recoveries and minimizing energy usage and carbon footprint. Numerous R&D projects are under way to improve scrap sorting and treatment, energy efficiency and recovery, up-cycling scrap into high quality alloys, and to develop alloys that can be made from the highest possible (ideally post-consumer) recycling content This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast, we dive deep into the future of aluminum packaging with Dan and Jeff, two innovators behind Canovation. Learn how their resealable can technology is transforming the industry by enhancing sustainability, reducing CO2 emissions, and offering a practical alternative to plastic. Tune in to discover how this breakthrough is reshaping the way we think about aluminum packaging and recycling. 🌍♻️ #Sustainability #AluminumPackaging #Recycling #Innovation #Canovation #DirtyScrapPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Join us for an insightful episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast as we dive deep into the world of sustainable energy and innovative technologies with Patrick from Mott Corporation. Discover the future of green energy, the role of nuclear power, and the science behind advanced filtration systems. Learn how industries are transitioning towards a sustainable future, the challenges of hydrogen energy, and the importance of carbon capture in combating climate change. Don't miss this episode packed with expert insights on how we can balance technology and sustainability for a greener tomorrow! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Join us for an exciting episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast as we chat with Jess, the author behind the inspiring recycling book series, now available in Spanish! Find out how her initiative is motivating kids across America to turn aluminum cans into a force for good. We talk about the impact of recycling in schools, the journey from book idea to community transformation, and how you can get involved. Don't miss this conversation about sustainability, education and the future of recycling This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap, we explore how Firepoint Energy, led by Bill Smith, is revolutionizing the energy industry. This company specializes in the recovery of rare earth elements and the conversion of coal waste into clean fuels and electricity. Discover how their innovative approach is helping to meet the growing global demand for critical minerals, while contributing to a more sustainable future.Subscribe to the channel, like and share to stay up to date with the latest innovations in the aluminum recycling and energy industry! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

We explore how Levidian is revolutionizing decarbonization with its innovative LOOP technology. Discover how this British company captures carbon from methane gas before it is combusted, converting it into clean hydrogen and high-quality graphene. These solutions not only help reduce CO2 emissions, but also improve efficiency in a variety of industries, from agriculture to wastewater treatment This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap, we explore the latest innovations in aluminum smelting, including the use of plasma, hydrogen, and more. Find out how these technologies are reducing CO2 emissions and improving efficiency in the aluminum industry. If you are passionate about sustainability and the future of aluminum recycling, this episode is for you!Don't forget to subscribe to the channel, like and share this video to stay up to date with the latest in the world of recycled aluminum. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast, we dive into the latest trends and innovations in aluminum recycling, focusing on aluminum melting furnaces. Join us as Martin, an industry expert with over 30 years of experience, shares insights on how technology is transforming the quality and sustainability of recycled aluminum production. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of the aluminum industry! 🔥 #AluminumRecycling #MeltingFurnace #Sustainability This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Welcome to the Dirty #Scrap podcast with your host Julio Quintero. In this episode, we talk with Stuart and Lisa from Buddy about the latest trends in the scrap market and how Buddy is revolutionizing the trade. Get practical tips and key strategies from these industry experts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Discover key strategies for reducing carbon emissions, the importance of energy efficiency, and the role of technological innovation in transforming the aluminum industry. We also highlight the significance of collaboration among stakeholders and the challenges and opportunities presented by this essential transition.Read the full roadmap and gain valuable insights on how the aluminum industry can move towards a sustainable future. Don’t forget to watch our previous video with Chuck Johnson for more in-depth analysis. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Road Map Report May 2024 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Dive into the scrap and foundry industry with host Julio Quintero. Sponsored by Hormesa, we bring you insights from industry leaders. Discover innovative solutions like the MEGA® solar carport by Gismo Power, featuring expert Erika Ginsberg-Klemmt. Learn about distributed solar, EV-charging technology, and industry breakthroughs. Tune in for expert conversations and stay ahead in the evolving world of scrap and foundry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Welcome to 'Dirty Scrap,' I'm Julio Quintero, your host. Today, we're excited to have Nate Newbury, founder and CEO of Alloygeek.com. Nate has dedicated his career to helping companies in the industry with metal analysis, foundry operations and access to essential technology to improve quality.This podcast is made possible thanks to the support of Hormesa, foundry Industry Experts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

We are delighted to welcome Nidhi Turakhia, MBA Turakhia, an esteemed scrap industry executive, With a career spanning over 20 years, Nidhi is at the forefront of innovation, management and #sustainability in #scraprecycling. 🌍 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Robin will share her insights on what drives ISRI, their vision for the future, and the strategies they've implemented to stay on the cutting edge of the industry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

we explore the world of metal recycling with Jacob Bronstein, CEO of Merrillville Metal Recycling. Find out how they transform scrap metal into valuable resources, face environmental challenges and lead toward a sustainable future. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Re-melting aluminium into new products requires extremely high temperatures, an energy intensive process which is hard to achieve without fossil energy in the form of natural gas. However, new plasma technology will enable electrification of the process, using the same renewable energy that powers Hydro’s primary smelters. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Germany and its energy strategy known as the "Energiewende", with a target of 80% of its electricity coming from renewable sources by 2050 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

2024 looks set to be a challenging year for the aluminum industry, with the need to adapt to an ever-changing global environment. The ability to anticipate and respond to these challenges will be crucial to the success and sustainability of the aluminum industry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

2024 looks set to be a challenging year for the aluminum industry, with the need to adapt to an ever-changing global environment. The ability to anticipate and respond to these challenges will be crucial to the success and sustainability of the aluminum industry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

John Sacco, President/Owner-Sierra International Machinery, will share his personal journey in the recycling world, we'll look at what 2023 left us with and take a look at what the future holds for the industry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

John Sacco ,President/Owner-Sierra International Machinery, will share his personal journey in the recycling world, we'll look at what 2023 left us with and take a look at what the future holds for the industry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Explore how Spain is becoming a benchmark in the #aluminum recycling industry. Discover the latest figures, technological advances and the challenges facing this key sector for a greener future This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In 2022, Italy recycled 73.6% of the aluminum packaging launched on the market, equivalent to 60,200 tons. A figure that significantly exceeds the recycling targets set for 2025 (50%) and 2030 (60%) by the European Union!♻️ But that's not all. The aluminum beverage can segment stands out even more with an impressive recycling rate of 91.6%. This means that more than nine out of ten aluminum beverage cans consumed in Italy are recycled. 🥤 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

The total amount of aluminum buried in landfills in the U.S. is estimated to be approximately 90.2 million tons. Since 2010, about 2.55 million tons of aluminum have been buried annually. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Exclusive RiA Representative North America, DIDION International Representative for Aluminum Dross and Waste Processing. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com