If buildings contribute 40% of global carbon emissions, what's stopping us from transforming the built environment?

In this episode of Age of Adoption, recorded on Earth Day 2025, host Keith Zackheim speaks with Breana Wheeler, Director of Operations for BREEAM USA, about the critical role of certification in decarbonizing the built environment. Wheeler shares how BREEAM, the world's first science-based validation standard for sustainable building performance, has evolved since its 1990 inception to address not only carbon mitigation but also climate resilience and adaptation. With buildings contributing nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, Wheeler explains how BREEAM's standards help asset owners manage climate risk while maintaining building value.

The conversation explores parallels between pandemic response and climate action, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and science-based approaches to global challenges. Wheeler, whose environmental passion led her from receptionist to sustainability leader, outlines the opportunities and challenges in retrofitting existing buildings. With over 750,000 certificates issued worldwide yet 70% of existing building stock still needing certification, Wheeler emphasizes the critical role of finance, regulation, and long-term investment strategies in transforming real estate for a sustainable future.

Breana Wheeler serves as Director of Operations for BREEAM USA, where she leads the organization's efforts to validate and improve sustainability performance in the built environment. With a career spanning nearly a decade at BREEAM and extensive experience in the UK, Wheeler brings a unique international perspective to climate resilience and building science. Her environmental passion began early, leading her to pursue degrees in geography, political science, and environment, politics and globalization. Before joining BREEAM, Wheeler worked at Skanska Infrastructure Development, where she transitioned from administration to sustainability leadership, focusing on environmental management as both a risk and opportunity for business. Based in San Francisco, Wheeler is a respected voice in building certification, advocating for science-based approaches to decarbonization and climate adaptation in real estate.

In This Episode: 

(00:00) Breana Wheeler and San Francisco Climate Week

(03:20) Breana's career journey and environmental background

(10:46) BREEAM's evolution in response to climate science changes

(14:13) The importance of resilience standards in building certification

(21:37) Discussion on retrofitting existing building stock globally

Share with someone who would enjoy this topic, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes, send us your comments and guest suggestions!

About the show: 
The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:
Breana Wheeler LinkedIn
Website: https://breeam.com/breeam-usa
Antenna Group
Age of Adoption Website
Keith Zakheim LinkedIn

In this episode of the Age of Adoption podcast, host Keith Zakheim welcomes Duncan Meisel, Executive Director of Clean Creatives, an organization challenging PR and advertising agencies to reject fossil fuel clients. Drawing from his background in climate NGO communications, Duncan has pioneered a global movement to eliminate ties between creative agencies and fossil fuel companies. The conversation explores how Clean Creatives provides a pledge for agencies and brands, targets those working with polluters, and confronts the conflicts of interest that arise when agencies serve both sustainability-focused clients and fossil fuel companies simultaneously.

Despite current political headwinds facing climate initiatives, Duncan maintains an optimistic outlook grounded in planetary urgency and market fundamentals. He highlights how twice as much capital now flows into renewable energy compared to fossil fuels, and emphasizes that engagement typically increases during challenging political climates. For businesses navigating the climate transition, Duncan stresses the importance of focusing on material climate impacts that directly affect bottom lines—like insurance companies losing advertising revenue due to climate disaster—and building strategic plans that position organizations for success when the pendulum inevitably swings back toward climate action.

Duncan Meisel, Executive Director of Clean Creatives, leads a global movement challenging advertising and PR agencies to cut ties with fossil fuel companies through their industry pledge system. Drawing from his background in climate NGO communications at organizations like 350.org, Duncan identifies how agencies serve conflicting interests when representing both sustainability-focused brands and fossil fuel clients. In this episode, he reveals the concerning "climate doomer" mentality among many agency professionals working with polluters and explains how Clean Creatives connects the dots between climate impacts and business consequences—like State Farm's $8 million Super Bowl ad cancellation due to climate disasters while their agency also represented Exxon. Despite current political headwinds, Duncan maintains that planetary urgency and strong market fundamentals, including twice as much capital flowing to renewables versus fossil fuels, provide reasons for optimism in the climate transition. Based in Austin, Texas, Duncan has been recognized as one of Adweek's Young Influentials and PRovoke Media's Innovator 25.

In This Episode: 

(00:00) Introduction - Duncan Meisel of Clean Creatives

(03:39) Duncan explains Clean Creatives' mission and fossil fuel pledge

(07:44) Discussion of agency conversations and rationalizations for fossil fuel work

(11:06) Brand perspective on agencies with fossil fuel clients

(14:42) Duncan shares his Age of Adoption story amid political challenges

(18:07) Clean Creatives' tactical focus on materiality and real impacts

Share with someone who would enjoy this topic, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes, send us your comments and guest suggestions!

About the show:  

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:

Duncan Meisel LinkedIn

Clean Creatives Website

Antenna Group

Age of Adoption Website

Keith Zakheim LinkedIn

In this episode of Age of Adoption, host Keith Zakheim welcomes Neal Rickner, CEO of Airloom Energy, about reimagining wind turbine technology. Neal, a former F-18 pilot with the Marines who later worked at Google X on the Makani project, explains how Airloom Energy is developing revolutionary wind turbines that can be mass-manufactured, easily transported, and deployed without specialized equipment—all while significantly reducing costs. Instead of pursuing marginal improvements through larger turbines, Airloom creates adaptable systems that can be installed in locations where traditional wind turbines aren't feasible.

Airloom's innovative approach addresses key industry challenges by using standardized materials and simplified supply chains. Neil highlights partnerships with the Air Force Research Laboratory to develop resilient energy solutions for military installations and discusses how their technology can help reduce fuel dependency for forward operating bases. This episode demonstrates how rethinking fundamental technologies can create competitive advantages while expanding access to renewable energy globally.

Neal Rickner is a technology entrepreneur and investor specializing in energy and aerospace. Before Airloom, Neal served as the CEO of BridgeTek Energy and the Managing Partner of Elevation Ventures. Prior to these roles, Neal spent nearly a decade at Google and Google[x] leading teams and developing energy projects. Before working in tech, Neal served 12 years on active duty in the US Marine Corps as an F/A-18 pilot and forward air controller. He completed three tours in Iraq between 2003 and 2007, earning the Bronze Star and (13) Air Medals. He transitioned from active duty in 2009, earning dual master's degrees (business and international affairs) from Columbia University. Neal is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations and a Tillman Scholar. He serves on the Advisory boards of Vets in Tech and the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP).

In This Episode:

(00:00) Introduction - Neal Rickner's clean energy career journey

(07:38) Neal's age of adoption story: reimagining wind turbines, revolutionizing wind energy deployment

(14:17) Military applications, Defense Department innovation for fighter jets and partnerships with Airloom Energy

(19:44) Conclusion and closing thoughts

Share with someone who would enjoy this topic, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes, send us your comments and guest suggestions!

About the show: 

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:
Neal Rickner LinkedIn
Airloom Energy
Antenna Group
Age of Adoption Website
Keith Zakheim LinkedIn

How does a transit-dependent child from Los Angeles become the Chief Mobility Officer for America's automotive heartland?

In this episode of Age of Adoption, host Keith Zakheim welcomes Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer for the State of Michigan. Drawing from her extensive background spanning from the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission to Ford Smart Mobility, Johnson provides unique insights into how Michigan is pioneering mobility solutions beyond traditional electric and autonomous vehicles. She discusses the state's expansive approach to mobility—including micromobility, smart roads, and innovations like the multi-state $100 million Mach H2 hydrogen initiative—while emphasizing accessibility and climate resilience.

Johnson's fascinating journey from transit-dependent child to mobility leader offers a compelling perspective on transportation's evolution. She articulates how Michigan leverages its automotive heritage to pioneer clean energy transportation solutions, including the Toyota Mobility Foundation's $3 million Sustainable Cities Challenge award. For businesses navigating the climate transition, Johnson's insights illuminate how integrating multiple technologies—from hydrogen infrastructure to drone systems—creates resilient, accessible transportation ecosystems that benefit both industry and communities.

Justine Johnson serves as Michigan's Chief Mobility Officer, where she leads the state's advanced mobility initiatives and clean energy transportation strategies. With a robust background spanning from the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission to Ford Motor Company's Mobility division, Johnson brings unique expertise in transportation policy, innovation, and accessibility. Her experience includes launching NYC's Ferry Service, advising the Los Angeles County Aviation Commission, and teaching at USC. Johnson's approach combines her personal understanding of transit dependency with strategic vision, making her a transformative leader in Michigan's mobility ecosystem.

In This Episode: 

(00:02) Introduction of guest Justine Johnson, Michigan's Chief Mobility Officer

(02:29) Justine's personal journey with mobility began in childhood

(05:22) Experience at NYC Taxi Commission during rideshare disruption

(07:12) Transition through various mobility roles to Michigan position

(11:03) Justine's Age of Adoption story focusing on individual impact

(15:44) Exploring Michigan's hydrogen initiatives and the Mach H2 alliance

(18:43) Closing thoughts

Share with someone who would enjoy this topic, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes, send us your comments and guest suggestions!

About the show: 

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:
Justine Johnson LinkedIn
Michigan Economic Development Corp
Antenna Group
Age of Adoption Website
Keith Zakheim LinkedIn
 

What innovative strategies is SunOpta implementing to transform food waste into valuable resources, and how is their new Texas facility contributing to sustainability goals?

In this episode of the Age of Adoption podcast, host Keith Zakheim sits down with Stacy Seidel, Senior Director of ESG at SunOpta, to explore how the plant-based food and beverage company is revolutionizing sustainable food production. Seidel shares her fascinating journey from communications and law to becoming a sustainability leader, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and courage in driving corporate change.

The conversation delves into SunOpta's comprehensive approach to sustainability, from innovative food upcycling practices to their strategically designed facility in Midlothian, Texas. Seidel details how the company has embedded sustainability into its corporate culture, working across departments to gather data, meet stakeholder needs, and implement meaningful environmental initiatives. Their efforts showcase how food manufacturers can successfully transform their operations while maintaining business growth and environmental responsibility.

Stacy Seidel, Senior Director of ESG at SunOpta, oversees the organization’s sustainability efforts, conducts materiality assessments to inform strategy, and coordinates cross-functional teams to define and achieve measurable goals. She also drafts SunOpta’s annual ESG report.

In This Episode:

(00:00) Welcome to Stacy Seidel, Senior Director of ESG at SunOpta

(02:42) Stacy's Career Journey: From Communications to Sustainability Leadership

(06:58) SunOpta's Sustainability Evolution and Internal Engagement Story

(15:30) Innovation in Action: Food Upcycling and Sustainable Facility Design in Midlothian TX

Share with someone who would enjoy this topic, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes, send us your comments and guest suggestions!

About the show: 

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:
Stacy Seidel LinkedIn

SunOpta

Antenna Group

Age of Adoption Website

Keith Zakheim LinkedIn
 

How did Rachel Posner Ross, the Former Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer for the U.S. Department of Defense, help transform the largest energy consumer in the nation into a leader in sustainability?

Host Keith Zakheim has a compelling conversation (at the Pentagon!) with Rachel Posner Ross, the Former Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer at the Department of Defense. Rachel explains the crucial balance between energy management and national security. You’ll hear about the  Department's ambitious increase in climate and energy investments from $600 million in 2022 to $4.5 billion in 2024, driven by visionary leadership and dedicated public service. Rachel also outlines the strategies for achieving 100% carbon pollution-free electricity by 2030, addressing the challenges of reforming traditional electricity procurement methods. This episode offers listeners a profound understanding of the intersection between environmental stewardship and national security, making it an essential listen for those interested in sustainable defense initiatives.

Rachel Posner Ross: As a member of the Senior Executive Service, Ms. Ross worked with leadership across DoD, other government institutions, and external organizations to advance DoD’s climate and sustainability objectives. Prior to this appointment, she served as Chief of Staff to the 25th Secretary of the Army, where she provided oversight and guidance to the Army’s large and diverse staff and coordinated with the Army’s senior leaders to ensure timely execution of the Secretary’s priorities and statutory responsibilities.

In This Episode: 

(00:00) Introduction of Rachel Posner Ross, Former Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer

(03:44) Rachel’s path to her former position, living and working in Myanmar, joining Allotrope Partners

(09:15) DoD - the single largest energy consumer - and its challenging scale of consumption, following national defense strategy guidelines

(14:04) Biggest challenges, proudest moments

(16:47) Find out more, where to connect with Rachel

Share with someone who would enjoy this topic, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes, send us your comments and guest suggestions!

About the show: 

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:

Rachel Posner Ross LinkedIn
Rachel Posner Ross Bio
DoD Website
Antenna Group
Age of Adoption Website
Keith Zakheim LinkedIn

How is Breene Murphy pioneering sustainable investment strategies that challenge the status quo of traditional financial systems?

Host Keith Zakheim speaks with Breene Murphy, President of Carbon Collective, as he recounts his extraordinary shift from the bustling world of NBA journalism to spearheading the movement for sustainable investing. Breene takes us through his journey, sharing how his creative aspirations and a pivotal influence from his grandmother set him on a path to climate advocacy. His story is a testament to the power of aligning personal purpose with professional endeavors, inspiring each of us to consider how we might contribute to the sustainability movement. We discuss his integral role at Carbon Collective Investing, where he crafts innovative strategies to integrate sustainability into traditional financial systems. Explore how leaders and innovators across sectors are redefining sustainable business practices, transforming challenges into opportunities for a brighter, greener future. This episode isn't just about investment; it's an invitation to align your values with your resources, and to envision the future you wish to see.

Breene Murphy, President, Carbon Collective, is the first online investment advisor dedicated to solving climate change. With a strong background in finance, marketing, and climate, Breene has been a passionate volunteer with Citizens' Climate Lobby for 10 years, even helping pass climate legislation. He’s also the director of the ecoadventure documentary series *Seven Crossings* with big wave surfer Jamie Mitchell. Breene enjoys connecting with the climate community and sharing insights on climate action through speaking engagements and podcasts.

In This Episode: 

• (00:00) How Breene got to his current role
• (05:24) Breene’s stylish and energetic grandmother - a huge inspiration
• (08:50) Storytelling and behavioral economics, a gateway into finance
• (12:00) ESG and the Carbon Collective, the lived world vs. public markets
• (17:10) Looking forward instead of at the status quo, changing fiduciary best practices
• (20:00) Where we are now in investing, opportunities for shareholder engagement
• Share with someone who would enjoy this topic, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes, send us your comments and guest suggestions!

About the show: 

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:

Breene Murphy LinkedIn

Carbon Collective

Antenna Group

Age of Adoption Website

Keith Zakheim LinkedIn

What inspired Jan Stanek to become a leading influencer in the clean energy sector, known as 'Electro Dad' on YouTube?

In this episode, Keith talks with Jan, aka 'Electro Dad,' a climate advocate and YouTube influencer passionate about electric vehicles. Jan shares his transition from living in extreme industrial pollution while working in Nanjing, to leading the clean energy movement in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Jan is on a mission to inspire one million Czech and Slovakian people to embrace electric vehicles. His diverse background in engineering and economics fuels his vision for a sustainable, cleaner future. Tune in for valuable insights on Europe's electric vehicle market and the path to widespread adoption.

Jan Stanek is an electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, and economist, is a passionate advocate for clean energy and electromobility. After witnessing extreme pollution in China, he became determined to minimize his family’s environmental impact. In 2012, he moved back to the Czech Republic, embracing renewable energy, installing solar panels, and driving electric cars like the Nissan Leaf. Jan founded the "Electrodad" YouTube channel in 2019, where he shares his journey with clean energy and electric vehicles, inspiring thousands. With over 40,000 subscribers and millions of views, Jan continues to promote sustainable living and a greener future.

In This Episode: 

• (00:00) Introduction of Jan Stanek, aka “Electro Dad”, meeting of Antenna Group in Prague, Jan’s career path to electric vehicles, VC funds in Europe
• (04:10) Academic background, Jan’s “Age of Adoption” story
• (06:37) Challenges and roadblocks for EVs in Europe, big car manufacturing vs. EVs
• (10:02) Closing thoughts 
• Share with someone who would enjoy this topic, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes, send us your comments and guest suggestions!

About the show: 

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.

Resources:

Jan Stanek LinkedIn

Electro Dad on YT

Antenna Group

Age of Adoption Website

Keith Zakheim LinkedIn