Green Disruptors: Scaling the Future

Most commercial facilities are sitting on energy efficiency opportunities they don’t even know exist.In this episode of Green Disruptors, Megan sits down with Alex Mouton, founder of M3 Services, to discuss the overlooked world of utility-funded energy efficiency projects — and how contractors can help schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings dramatically improve efficiency with far less out-of-pocket cost than most expect.Alex shares:Why utility incentive programs remain one of the best-kept secrets in commercial energyThe frustrating bureaucracy contractors face to access these fundsHow M3 Services has built a scalable model around efficiency-first contractingWhy workforce development and job creation are central to long-term climate impactThe real barriers to expanding these programs across the U.S.This is a practical conversation on the business side of energy transition — where policy, contractors, utilities, and economic impact all intersect.Connect with Alex Mouton / M3 Services:Alex Mouton | LinkedInProduced by Mountaintop Social MarketingLinkedIn growth and outbound authority building for cleantech brands.#CleanEnergy #EnergyEfficiency #UtilityIncentives #CommercialHVAC #Sustainability #GreenDisruptors #CleantechPodcast

The energy conversation has never been more complex—or more important.In this episode of Green Disruptors: Scaling the Future, Megan sits down with supply chain expert and author David Jacoby to break down what’s actually happening across global energy markets.With over 30 years of experience advising companies in oil & gas, renewables, and critical minerals, David brings a unique perspective on how policy, geopolitics, and supply chains are reshaping the future of energy.Together, they explore:Why energy policy has become a global conversationThe real impact of tariffs and “supply chain independence”Why reshoring takes years—not monthsThe shifting role of solar and renewables in today’s environmentHow data centers and AI are driving unprecedented energy demandWhere companies are actually investing right now (and why)This is a grounded, honest look at the challenges—and opportunities—facing the energy industry today.If you’re in energy, infrastructure, or just trying to understand what’s next… this episode is for you.

In this episode of Green Disruptors: Scaling the Future, Megan Kjar sits down with Fritz Troller, CEO of Thurm, to discuss one of the most overlooked climate opportunities hiding in plain sight: refrigeration and the food supply chain.Refrigerant gases used in grocery stores and cold storage facilities are among the most powerful greenhouse gases in the world, and small leaks add up to massive climate impact. These “super pollutants” are responsible for a significant portion of near-term global warming — but they’re also one of the fastest problems we can solve.Fritz explains how Thurm works with grocery stores, distributors, and food processors to reduce refrigerant leaks, transition to climate-friendly systems, and use carbon finance to make sustainable upgrades economically viable. The company also helps divert food waste from landfills, reduce methane emissions, and create new revenue streams through carbon markets.This conversation explores the intersection of climate technology, finance, and global supply chains — and why the key to scaling climate solutions is making the right decision both environmentally and economically.Topics covered:Super pollutants and why they matterRefrigeration and climate impactCarbon credits and carbon financeFood waste and methane reductionScaling climate solutions globallyThe business model behind climate tech adoptionIf you’re interested in climate tech, carbon markets, supply chains, or scalable sustainability solutions, this episode is for you.

Most people think their climate impact comes from things like driving an EV, installing solar panels, or reducing waste.But what if the biggest climate impact you have is hidden inside your retirement account?In this episode of Green Disruptors: Scaling the Future, Megan Kjar sits down with Ashwin Devnani, CTO and Chief Product Officer of Investiture, to explore one of the most overlooked levers in climate finance.In the United States alone, nearly $10 trillion sits in employer-sponsored retirement accounts like 401(k)s. Most employees set them up once and rarely revisit them — but those investments may be funding industries that contribute heavily to carbon emissions.Ashwin explains how Investiture is helping companies and employees understand the carbon footprint of their investment portfolios, and how simply reallocating a portion of those funds could unlock massive climate impact without sacrificing financial returns.They also discuss:Why retirement investments are often called “zombie money”The hidden climate footprint of 401(k) and 403(b) plansWhy service companies’ largest emissions may come from their investmentsHow companies and employees can influence retirement fund optionsThe opportunity to redirect even 10% of $10 trillion toward climate solutionsThe challenges startups face when disrupting large financial systemsThis conversation highlights an important truth: solving climate change isn’t always about new capital — sometimes it’s about moving the money that already exists.investature.com

In this episode of Green Disruptors, Megan Kjar sits down with Nick Casas, CEO of Uptime EV Charger, to talk about the realities of EV infrastructure deployment in a changing market.Nick shares how Uptime approaches enterprise EV charging rollouts, why the company focuses on transparency and education, and what it means to truly listen to customer needs instead of pushing one-size-fits-all solutions. He explains why EV deployment is far more complex than many assume, and how long-term thinking, strong execution, and the right team can create growth even during a slower and more uncertain market cycle.Megan and Nick also discuss some of the biggest challenges facing the EV sector right now, including power constraints, adoption bottlenecks, policy uncertainty, and the need for practical innovation. Nick highlights the company’s work around mobile charging, battery-backed systems, and hybrid solutions for businesses that do not own their facilities but still need to electrify operations.The conversation also explores how AI is being used inside the business to improve uptime, remote monitoring, customer communication, and decision-making across teams.And in true Green Disruptors fashion, the episode closes on a more personal note with a conversation about music, family, creativity, and the things that keep founders energized outside of work.This episode is for anyone interested in EV charging, fleet electrification, clean energy infrastructure, AI in operations, and what it takes to build resilient companies in the energy transition.

Buildings account for roughly 40% of global energy consumption and carbon emissions, yet one of the biggest drivers of that energy use remains largely invisible: HVAC systems.In this episode of Green Disruptors: Scaling the Future, host Megan Kjar sits down with Jim Metropoulos, founder of BlueBox Air, to unpack a problem that’s been hiding in plain sight for over a century — biofouling inside HVAC heat transfer coils.Jim shares how a background far outside traditional engineering led to an accidental but powerful breakthrough: a patented, enzyme-based process that cleans and automates HVAC systems from the inside out — without chemicals, shutdowns, or disruption. The result?30–50% efficiency restoration in fouled systemsDramatically lower energy costs and peak load demandImproved indoor air qualityFast ROI that often pays back in under a yearFrom hospitals and high-rise buildings to data centers powering AI, this conversation reveals why HVAC is the foundation of the modern world — and why solving this one choke point could meaningfully impact global energy use and emissions at scale.This episode isn’t about moral arguments or sustainability buzzwords. It’s about performance, economics, and systems that finally work the way they were supposed to.

What does it take to scale a clean energy company without losing focus, culture, or profitability?In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Lev Buslovich, President of Apadana Energy, to explore leadership lessons behind sustainable growth in clean energy.Lev shares his remarkable personal story—from growing up as a refugee to leading a rapidly scaling energy company—and breaks down the leadership principles that helped Apadana double year over year.Topics include:Why focus is critical for scalingEngineering-driven growth vs. custom chaosBuilding teams around strengthsSystems, process, and leadership in clean energyIf you’re a founder, operator, or energy professional thinking about scale, this conversation is for you.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of energy.

The conversation with Dave Harper delves into the intersection of renewable energy, indigenous sovereignty, and cultural preservation. It highlights the challenges faced by tribal communities in the development of renewable energy projects and the importance of trust, dignity, and collaboration in this space. Dave's vision for Haraav Energy focuses on uplifting tribal communities and promoting sustainable development.TakeawaysRenewable energy and indigenous sovereignty can be in partnershipCultural preservation and historical trauma are important aspects of renewable energy projectsChapters00:00 Introduction to Dave's Background07:06 Collaboration and Funding Challenges27:21 Vision for Haraav Energy

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Tim Raines, a climate tech commercialization advisor specializing in SBIR funding and go-to-market strategy.Tim shares what separates successful SBIR applicants from those that stall out—and why technical excellence alone isn’t enough. From customer discovery and value propositions to sales, marketing, and founder mindset, this conversation unpacks what it really takes to bring climate technologies out of the lab and into the market.If you’re a climate tech founder navigating grants, funding uncertainty, or commercialization challenges, this episode offers practical insight and hard-earned lessons from the field.

The clean energy transition isn’t just about building more solar and wind — it’s about making the power grid smart enough to handle them.In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Dan Travers, co-founder of Open Climate Fix, to explore how AI-powered forecasting is transforming the way electricity grids operate.Dan shares:• How outdated grid systems struggle with renewable variability• Why forecasting errors cost utilities millions• How open-source AI tools reduce risk for grid operators• The surprising role data plays in accelerating (or slowing) the energy transition• Why the future of clean energy must be both mission-driven and commercially viableThis conversation is a must-watch for anyone working in climate tech, energy markets, utilities, or AI — or anyone curious about how the energy transition actually works behind the scenes.👉 Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of clean energy.

What if you could benefit from solar energy — without installing panels, investing upfront, or taking on risk?In this episode, Megan Kjar sits down with Jason Kaplan, President of PowerMarket, to explore how community solar is unlocking clean energy savings for renters, apartment dwellers, and businesses across the United States.PowerMarket manages over 1 gigawatt of community solar projects and partners with municipalities and nonprofits to bridge the trust gap that often slows adoption.They discuss:How community solar worksWho qualifiesWhy skepticism exists — and how to overcome itThe political dynamics shaping renewable energyThe coming shifts in 2026 and beyondWhy staying cashflow positive in a volatile industry mattersCommunity solar may be one of the most accessible energy solutions available today — and most people don’t even know it exists.Learn more at: powermarket.io

What if inspecting a wind turbine or solar farm was as simple as pressing a button?In this episode of Green Disruptors, Megan sits down with Itai, Chief Revenue Officer at VHive, to explore how AI-powered digital twins are transforming infrastructure management across wind and solar energy.VHive enables energy companies to use off-the-shelf drones to autonomously scan assets, analyze performance, and generate actionable insights — without scheduling third-party inspection crews. The result? Faster inspections, lower operational friction, and a scalable path forward for renewable asset owners.We discuss:What a true “digital twin” actually meansDIY drone inspections for wind turbinesCoordinated multi-drone deployments for large solar farmsOperational efficiency vs. traditional inspection modelsScaling an energy vertical inside a high-growth startup100%+ year-over-year growth goals for 2026If you’re in renewable energy, asset management, infrastructure tech, or climate innovation — this episode is packed with insight.Subscribe for more conversations with leaders scaling clean energy.

How do we make sure more capital flows to the right climate solutions?In this episode of Green Disruptors: Scaling the Future, Megan Kjar sits down with Noah Miller, co-founder of Rho Impact, a climate advisory and software company helping investors, consultants, and capital allocators forecast the real impact of emerging climate technologies.With 2050 net-zero commitments looming and ESG under political scrutiny, the need for structured, defensible, and actionable climate data has never been more urgent.Noah shares:• The origin story of Rho Impact• How the Crane tool evolved into their flagship platform, Koi• Why better data transforms strategy into action• How climate funds evaluate “thousands of things we could invest in”• What’s driving growth and partnership momentum heading into 2026• The cultural realities of scaling a distributed climate company• And why Koi might just be the “Iron Man suit” for climate investorsIf you’re a climate founder, investor, consultant, or capital allocator trying to navigate complex impact claims and allocation commitments — this episode delivers clarity.🔗 Learn more about Rho Impact: https://koi.eco🎙 Hosted by Megan Kjar🌎 Green Disruptors: Scaling the Future

The conversation with Darrell Liski, co-founder of EnBioorganic Technologies, explores the challenges and opportunities in the adoption of biological solutions for environmental problems. It delves into the unique bio-organic treatment system developed by EBioorganic Technologies and the scalability and affordability of the solution. The discussion also covers the go-to-market strategy, overcoming bottlenecks, and the challenges in outreach and adoption.TakeawaysBiological solutions for environmental problemsChallenges in the adoption of biotech solutionsChapters00:00 Introduction to EnBioorganic Technologies06:06 The Unique Solution11:00 Scalability and Affordability18:01 Overcoming Bottlenecks23:02 Outreach and Adoption Challenges

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Jeff Cohen, Head of Sales at Cambium, a pioneering climate-tech company redefining how we value wood. Cambium’s mission is simple but powerful: transform fallen or removed trees into Carbon Smart Wood — durable, traceable lumber that keeps carbon locked away instead of sending it into the atmosphere. Jeff shares how Cambium’s tech platform connects arborists, sawmills, and furniture makers into a circular ecosystem — reducing waste, promoting transparency, and creating scalable climate impact. From “Uber for logs” to redefining reclaimed materials, this is a story of how data and design are transforming the lumber industry for good. 🎧 Learn how Cambium is changing the way we build — one salvaged tree at a time.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar speaks with Henk Mooiweer, co-founder of Grass Roots Carbon, a Texas-based company helping businesses like Microsoft and Nestlé meet their climate goals by investing in regenerative ranching. Henk explains how mimicking natural grazing patterns can restore grassland ecosystems, boost soil health, and store massive amounts of carbon underground. He also discusses how Grassroots Carbon bridges the gap between corporations seeking high-quality carbon credits and ranchers ready to transform their land management practices. If you’ve ever wondered how nature-based carbon removal actually works—or how the soil beneath our feet could help fight climate change—this episode will open your eyes to a powerful, proven solution.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Chris Gray, CEO of EcoSmart Solution, to talk about how simplicity, scalability, and strategy are driving the next generation of sustainable real estate. Chris shares how his background—from HVAC technician to PhD in sustainability—led him to merge engineering, construction, and financing expertise into one powerful mission: making energy efficiency accessible and affordable for all. They discuss the challenges of scaling sustainability, the financial realities shaping the market, and how turnkey geothermal and retrofit systems are changing the game for developers and property owners alike. Whether you’re in real estate, energy, or just passionate about practical sustainability, this episode is packed with insights on how to make the green transition actually work. 🎧 Listen now and discover how EcoSmart is building the future—one efficient property at a time.

What if the most powerful cleaner didn’t come from a bottle of chemicals — but from water, oxygen, and electricity? In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Michael K. Webb, Strategic Partner at CleanCore Solutions, a sustainability company based in Omaha, Nebraska that’s revolutionizing cleaning with patented aqueous ozone technology. Their system creates a non-toxic, on-demand cleaning solution that’s already being adopted by industries like childcare, pet care, hospitality, and large-scale service contractors — delivering up to 25–30% cost savings, faster cleaning times, and safer environments for people and animals. We discuss: ✅ Why ozone cleaning has been overlooked — until now ✅ How CleanCore makes it effective for 4–8 hours using nano-bubbles ✅ The cost, safety, and scalability advantages for businesses ✅ Why skepticism is their biggest challenge — and how they’re overcoming it ✅ Residential use cases (including fruit/veggie cleaning, sinks & surfaces) ✅ Landing their largest contract and scaling across industry verticals Whether you’re in sustainability, operations, product innovation, or simply curious about non-toxic living — this episode delivers a powerful look at how clean tech is scaling behind the scenes.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Chris Gray, CEO of EcoSmart Solution, to talk about how simplicity, scalability, and strategy are driving the next generation of sustainable real estate. Chris shares how his background—from HVAC technician to PhD in sustainability—led him to merge engineering, construction, and financing expertise into one powerful mission: making energy efficiency accessible and affordable for all. They discuss the challenges of scaling sustainability, the financial realities shaping the market, and how turnkey geothermal and retrofit systems are changing the game for developers and property owners alike. Whether you’re in real estate, energy, or just passionate about practical sustainability, this episode is packed with insights on how to make the green transition actually work. 🎧 Listen now and discover how EcoSmart is building the future—one efficient property at a time.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Dave Wells, VP at NLINE Energy, to explore how micro steam turbines are transforming wasted pressure into renewable electricity — without burning additional fuel. With 30 years in the energy industry and a track record in successful startups like EnerNOC, Dave explains how NLINE is scaling a technology that can generate up to 2 million+ kWh per year per unit by simply bypassing existing pressure reduction valves in high-pressure steam systems. We cover: ✅ The origin story behind NLINE’s breakthrough ✅ How thermal energy recovery works (in real-world terms) ✅ Why hospitals, universities, lumber mills, and paper manufacturers are prime candidates ✅ Payback timelines and financial impact ✅ Go-to-market strategy and the importance of awareness ✅ The scalability of a turbine that literally fits through a standard boiler room door If you’re working in industrial sustainability, energy efficiency, or decarbonization strategy — this one’s a must-listen.

How do companies — from two-person startups to global giants — navigate the chaos of sustainability, regulatory shifts, and volatile energy markets? In this episode, Eco-Engineers President Brad Pleima breaks down how his firm helps organizations understand the carbon markets, calculate lifecycle emissions, monetize sustainability through credits, and move from uncertainty to opportunity. We discuss: ✅ Why market downturns are NOT a reason to pause climate progress ✅ How carbon credits and regulatory programs drive innovation ✅ Why small, consistent actions beat “all or nothing” sustainability thinking ✅ What types of companies are taking bold first steps — and winning ✅ The mindset required to endure long-term sustainability cycles If you’re building, investing in, or advising within the clean energy transition, this conversation offers clarity, strategy, and encouragement for the long haul. 🎧 Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of sustainable innovation.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Brian Riordan, CEO and Co-Founder of Avalanche Fusion, a Washington-based company pioneering compact fusion energy. Brian shares how his unconventional background in ocean engineering and team-building led him to tackle one of the toughest challenges in energy: harnessing the power of the stars here on Earth. Together, they unpack the difference between fission and fusion, explore how Avalanche’s small-scale approach could revolutionize industries from shipping to defense, and discuss what it takes to innovate at the edge of science with optimism, grit, and a good sense of humor. 💡 Learn more at avalanchefusion.com

What if waste was the starting point for innovation? In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Connor, co-founder of Rubbish Ideas, to unpack how circular economy thinking is transforming the events industry — and beyond. Connor shares his journey from growing up with sustainability in his DNA to building tools like the Rubbish Portal, a waste and carbon accountancy software now used across Europe. Together, they explore the nuance behind “good” and “bad” materials, why top-down change is just as vital as personal responsibility, and how imperfect environmentalism can still create perfect momentum. 🎧 Tune in for fresh ideas on sustainability communication, system-level innovation, and practical paths toward a cleaner future.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Brad Stutzman, founder and CEO of O3 Energy, to discuss the evolution of the solar industry and what it takes to scale renewable energy projects. Brad shares how O3 Energy went from financing “scratch and dent” solar projects to becoming a leader in commercial and industrial solar development. The conversation covers: The evolution of solar financing and project development Resilience and the role of microgrids in Texas and nationwide How AI and data centers are reshaping energy demand Why misinformation is one of the industry’s biggest challenges Whether you’re an energy professional, entrepreneur, or just curious about the clean energy transition, this episode offers valuable insights into the realities — and opportunities — of scaling solar.

How can the ocean help us fight climate change? In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar speaks with Dr. Will from Planetary Technologies, a company pioneering ocean alkalinity enhancement. From his transition from academia to startup science, to Planetary’s milestone of delivering its first carbon removal credits, Will explains how this scalable solution could safely remove billions of tons of CO2 while reducing ocean acidification. A must-listen for anyone curious about carbon credits, ocean-based solutions, and the future of climate innovation.

I n this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Derrick Emsley, co-founder and CEO of Tentree and Veritree. Derrick shares his journey from launching his first carbon-offsetting project at age 15 to building Tentree, a global apparel brand planting over 100 million trees, and spinning out Veritree, a climate tech company ensuring transparency in global reforestation. We dive into: 🌱 How Tentree turned sustainability into a consumer brand movement 🌱 Why businesses need verifiable reforestation projects 🌱 The ROI of tree planting for industries like hospitality and e-commerce 🌱 Veritree’s mission to plant 1 billion trees and engage 100,000 businesses Tune in to learn how impact-driven innovation can transform both the planet and the bottom line.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Joley Michaelson, founder and CEO of The Sun Company. From her early career in healthcare to leading national sales at Tesla and SolarCity, Joley's path to renewable energy has always been driven by values and vision. She shares why she left Tesla to launch The Sun Company, how her team is pioneering long-duration, non-lithium energy storage, and why she believes business should prioritize people and connectedness over short-term profit. We also dive into: The flaws in today’s energy transition models What makes The Sun Company’s approach unique How trust, education, and community are key to solving the climate crisis The future of decentralized, intelligent power systems If you’re curious about the future of clean energy and how values-driven leadership can reshape industries, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar speaks with Anton Espira, co-founder of Eco2Librium, about reimagining conservation through a for-profit lens. Anton shares his journey from tropical forest ecologist to entrepreneur, explains how Eco2Librium develops financially sustainable projects like energy-efficient cookstoves, sustainable bamboo, and biochar, and explores the challenges and opportunities of blending conservation with business. Discover how creating jobs, generating carbon credits, and empowering local communities can build a model of conservation that’s both profitable and lasting.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Barry Westbrook, founder of DocAir, to explore the hidden world of indoor air quality. Barry shares his journey from engineering and construction to becoming a building scientist and leading DocAir for over 20 years. Together, they dive into why most homes and buildings lack proper ventilation, the myths around mold, the overlooked ROI of healthy air, and how DocAir is making air quality diagnostics accessible for both homeowners and businesses. If you’ve ever wondered where the air inside your building really comes from—or how it impacts your health and productivity—this episode is a must-listen.

Adam Boucher is no stranger to clean energy innovation. From launching one of the first solar finance companies in the U.S. to now leading Molecule Systems, Adam has always been ahead of the curve. Molecule’s platform enables developers and businesses to rapidly deploy energy management systems and optimize participation in virtual power plants — unlocking two to four times more value compared to traditional approaches. In this episode of Green Disruptors, Adam shares his journey from energy finance to software innovation, the challenges of product-market fit in clean tech, and why collaboration and flexibility are key to scaling the next generation of distributed energy solutions. Whether you’re in clean energy, tech, or simply curious about the future of the grid, this conversation offers a fascinating look at where we’re headed.

When landfills began to overflow in West Michigan, entrepreneur Dan Tietema saw an opportunity — and a responsibility. What began as a simple hauling service in 2011 evolved into Organicycle, a company that now collects, processes, and transforms food, paper, and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for local farms and landscapes. In this episode of Green Disruptors, Dan shares his path from bottled water to medical waste to composting, the moment he had to start making compost himself, and why he believes the next five years will be a tipping point for widespread adoption. You’ll hear practical tips for reducing contamination, insights on scaling a waste-reduction business, and a vision for how communities can cut methane emissions while creating a valuable resource from what we throw away.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, we sit down with George Kelly, founder of Earth Recovery Partners and a veteran of environmental markets. With decades of experience in policy, mitigation banking, and nature-based solutions, George shares how ERP is filling the critical funding gap for emerging enterprises in carbon, water, and biodiversity. From unique joint ventures with nonprofits to leveraging impact capital for maximum flexibility, George explains how his team is empowering the next generation of environmental innovators and why early-stage financing is the hardest, but most vital, piece of the puzzle.

Motorsports might not be the first place you look for climate innovation—but that’s exactly where today’s guest, Martin Popilka, found a powerful proving ground for synthetic fuels. In this episode, Martin shares how P1 Fuels decarbonized everything from Formula One engines to historic rally cars using synthetic gasoline made from captured CO₂ and renewable energy—no modifications needed. We explore: Why existing cars—not just EVs—hold the key to rapid decarbonization How race cars helped push the limits of fuel performance The massive opportunity in decentralized fuel production Why the energy transition needs systems thinking, not just new tech This is a conversation about innovation, resilience, and the surprising role motorsport can play in solving the climate crisis. Connect with us: 🔗 Learn more: p1fuels.com 📨 Get future episodes: mountaintopsocialmarketing.com

Agroforestry may not be the flashiest climate solution—but it just might be one of the most effective. In this episode of Green Disruptors, Cate O’Kane of Trees for the Future shares how the organization has spent 35 years transforming degraded land into vibrant Forest Gardens across sub-Saharan Africa. Cate breaks down how this simple yet powerful model creates cascading benefits—from increased food security and income for farmers, to carbon sequestration, improved soil health, and even gender equity. We also explore the intersection of nonprofit impact and business strategy, the role of carbon markets, and why smallholder farmers are some of the most important climate heroes of our time. 🌱 Learn more: trees.org

In this episode of Green Disruptors, we sit down with Brando Crespi, founder of Global Biocarbons, a company turning wildfire-damaged biomass into biochar and sustainable biocarbons that could replace fossil-fuel-based carbon black in cement, plastics, and even electronics. Brando shares his incredible journey—from launching luxury brands on Rodeo Drive to leading biodiversity missions across the globe—and how a moment of clarity after witnessing New Mexico’s worst wildfire sparked his latest venture. We explore how Global Biocarbons is leveraging waste materials to decarbonize trillion-dollar industries, the untapped potential of biochar, and the role of systems thinking in building a resilient climate economy. This is a conversation for anyone interested in circular design, regenerative materials, or just really big, bold ideas.

Can a home battery help fight climate change and cut your electricity bill? In this episode of Green Disruptors, Megan sits down with Robin, CEO of PowerVault, to explore the role of behind-the-meter energy storage in building a more resilient and intelligent power grid. From the evolution of battery tech and AI-driven algorithms to customer empowerment and market trust, Robin shares insights on what it takes to scale a clean tech company—and why residential power is the next big frontier in the climate fight. Whether you're an eco-enthusiast, policy nerd, or just curious how solar panels and home batteries really work together, this episode is full of energy (pun intended).

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Mark Lillis, SVP of Engineering at SKYRE, to unpack how his team is tackling one of industry’s best-kept secrets — wasted hydrogen. With a background in electrochemical systems dating back to the Gemini space program, SKYRE is using breakthrough membrane tech to recycle hydrogen in metal manufacturing, semiconductor production, and even emerging geologic hydrogen projects. Mark shares how SKYRE’s modular, scalable systems are helping companies slash costs, reduce emissions, and recover one of the most expensive and overlooked commodities in clean tech. If you're curious about how science meets scalable impact, this is a must-listen.

What does it say about your business if you're supporting veterans and the environment? According to Jim Holland, it says you're a business that cares. In this inspiring episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Jim — co-founder of Carma, a veteran-founded B-Corp that’s planted over 1.3 million trees while supporting mental health and social mobility for veterans. Learn how Carma leverages technology, partnerships, and purpose to help companies create verified environmental and social impact — and why doing good always makes you feel good. Visit carma.earth to learn more.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Mike Riley, CEO of NextGen, a Utah-based materials startup tackling one of clean tech's biggest challenges: where—and how—we get our critical materials. From pioneering a low-impact method of extracting lithium from waste piles and seawater, to innovating in graphite and flame retardants, Mike and his team are engineering cleaner, smarter alternatives to conventional mining. Tune in for a wide-ranging conversation on eco-ethical sourcing, local water issues, lobbying vs. impact, and what it really takes to scale a cleantech startup in today’s geopolitical landscape.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with Tom Chepucavage, co-founder and CEO of Flow Aluminum — an innovative battery startup out of the University of New Mexico. Flow is developing a carbon-negative, aluminum-based battery that’s safer, more sustainable, and longer-lasting than conventional lithium-ion technology. Tom breaks down how their batteries store energy, capture CO₂, and could play a vital role in powering microgrids, data centers, and military operations — especially in extreme conditions. They also discuss the ethical issues of lithium sourcing, the regulatory roadblocks in clean energy, and how startups like Flow are scaling against all odds. Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur, a clean energy advocate, or just curious about where the future of energy is headed — this episode is for you.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, we sit down with Robert, Sales Director and worker-owner at Rust Belt Riders, a Cleveland-based composting co-op transforming food waste into a force for good. Learn how they’re diverting tons of organic waste from landfills, supporting regenerative farming, and creating dignified green jobs—all while modeling a community-owned business structure. From hauling food scraps by bike to serving 4,000+ households and 300+ businesses, this is a deep dive into local climate action at scale.

How do you scale a clean energy platform that works behind the scenes of everyday businesses — from supermarkets to water pumping stations? In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar sits down with James Muraca, CTO of N-Response, to talk about how their cloud-based automation software is reshaping energy demand management across 30,000+ commercial sites in the U.S. We explore: What a virtual power plant really is — and what makes it “virtual” How demand response works in real time to prevent grid failures and blackouts The overlooked middle tier of energy users (like your local hardware store) Why building trust with customers is key to success in a regulated space The fine balance between process, autonomy, and innovation at scale Whether you’re in energy, tech, or just curious about scalable sustainability, this episode is packed with real-world insight.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar speaks with Pavel Hejsek, CEO of BC Biocarbon, a Canadian cleantech startup turning wood residuals into Blackberry Biochar — a soil amendment that both boosts plant health and traps carbon from the atmosphere. Pavel shares what makes their biochar unique, why scaling sustainable solutions isn’t just about the tech, and how customer-focused innovation can transform a product from niche to necessary. Whether you’re a climate tech enthusiast, investor, or just curious about greener growing solutions, this episode is packed with insights.

Nearly half the food we grow is wasted—but not if Jessica Regan has anything to say about it. In this episode, host Megan Kjar sits down with the founder and CEO of FoodMesh, a Vancouver-based company that’s building a digital marketplace for surplus food. Jessica shares how her team is now saving over a million meals a month, how the company’s data and logistics platform is helping retailers, farmers, and charities rethink food disposal, and how she's building resilient systems that scale across communities. If you’ve ever wondered where your grocery store’s “unsellable” food ends up—this is the episode for you.

Scott Wharton, CEO of Tandem PV, joins Green Disrupters to share how his team is reinventing solar energy with a breakthrough material called perovskite. Tandem PV’s ultra-thin, high-efficiency panels use 90% less energy to produce and deliver 30% more power—while being built right here in the U.S. In this episode, Scott explains: Why solar is already winning on cost Why perovskites could power 90% of panels by 2040 The real obstacles to U.S. energy independence Why utility-scale solar—not rooftops—is the real game-changer Plus, hear how this serial entrepreneur scaled tech companies to IPO, backpacked around the world with his family, and is now tackling one of the biggest climate problems head-on. Learn more about Tandem PV at tandempv.com

What if toxic mining waste could actually boost profits and protect the planet? In this episode of Green Disruptors, Megan talks with Ross Orr, President and CEO of Bactech Environmental, about a radical shift in mining sustainability. Using bioleaching—aka "bugs eating rocks"—Bactech transforms dangerous tailings into valuable metals while neutralizing arsenic and partnering with communities to build local economic resilience. Ross shares how this game-changing tech is scaling in Ecuador, why financial literacy matters in ESG work, and what’s holding back broader adoption in the mining world. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn a legacy liability into a profitable, regenerative business model—this one’s for you. Learn more at BactechGreen.com 🎧 Subscribe to Green Disruptors for more behind-the-scenes stories from the climate tech frontier.

In this episode, Megan sits down with clean tech veteran Daniel Dus to explore how his platform is transforming the way renewable energy projects are managed and deployed. From system engineering to legal consulting and project delivery, Daniel's team offers a fully integrated solution that prioritizes radical transparency, operational flexibility, and client trust. They discuss: Communication mistakes and how to fix them Giving clients access to internal tools like CRMs The financial future of solar and the 2028 ITC cliff Why clean energy is no longer “alternative,” but essential Whether you're in energy, construction, or any service-driven industry, Daniel’s insights will reshape how you think about service, scale, and strategy.

What if climate impact didn’t require behavior change — just better building practices? In this episode of Green Disruptors, Megan sits down with Ross MacPherson of AeroSeal to talk about the power of air sealing. From ductwork to entire building envelopes, AeroSeal’s technology is transforming energy efficiency in both residential and commercial construction. Ross shares how the company is scaling across 90+ countries, why energy codes are the biggest marketing lever no one talks about, and how AeroSeal’s “gigacorn” ambition (yep, that’s a billion tons of CO₂ reduced per year) is surprisingly achievable. Builders save money. Occupants gain comfort. And emissions go down — all without needing anyone to remember their reusable grocery bags.

From Basement Startup to Solar Powerhouse: Exactus Energy’s Path to Resilience In this episode, Megan sits down with Eddie Obeliunas, co-founder and CEO of Exactus Energy, a professional services firm supporting solar projects across North America. Eddie shares the story of how Exactus grew from two guys in a basement to a 120-person team—without outside funding. He opens up about navigating policy swings, diversifying beyond solar, and what it really takes to build a future-proof business in renewables. A must-listen for anyone in solar, engineering, or clean energy entrepreneurship.

In this episode of Green Disruptors, host Megan Kjar talks with Ravi Kiran Polepeddi, co-founder of Sustainium, a sustainability platform helping businesses take control of their carbon footprint—without the complexity. Ravi shares how his childhood in India inspired a lifelong passion for environmental stewardship, leading to the creation of Sustainium. Together, they explore: Why carbon accounting is the "diagnosis" step every business needs How AI can eliminate human error, automate ESG reporting, and educate teams company-wide Why "compliance" shouldn't be the goal—and how smart emissions tracking reduces costs, attracts investors, and builds better brands Whether you’re a global manufacturer or a growing startup, this episode is your guide to turning emissions data into meaningful action.