Episode Description

The world's demand for energy is surging in the age of artificial intelligence — and coal is once again in the spotlight. In this episode, Coal Nation host Emily Arthun sits down with Myles Recny, Co-Founder of Realm Alliance, a U.S.-based AI software company built to revolutionize the coal industry. From AI-driven safety systems and real-time plant optimization to workforce innovation and national energy security, Myles shares why he believes coal is irreplaceable — and ready for a renaissance.

Together they explore how AI can help coal mines operate more safely, more efficiently, and more competitively than ever before — and why this moment in history is critical for coal to embrace technology and lead America's energy future.

Key Takeaways

• AI and Energy Demand: Data-center growth and AI workloads could raise coal's share of the U.S. energy mix to 25%.
• Coal's Enduring Role: Coal is not a "bridge fuel" — it remains an essential pillar of a reliable U.S. grid.
• Safety Through AI: Realm Alliance integrates with mine camera and sensor systems to detect safety risks, improve response times, and reduce downtime.
• Workforce Impact: AI augments miners' capabilities rather than replacing them — acting as "20 extra smart and tireless teammates."
• National Security: A strong coal sector is vital for U.S. energy independence and global competitiveness in the AI race.
• Innovation at Work: From real-time flotation-cell optimization to predictive maintenance, AI is helping coal mines boost yield and efficiency.
• Cultural Shift: Shaping the future of coal means embracing advanced technology and attracting new talent to a modernized industry.

Resources & Links: Learn more about Realm Alliance, Inc. → www.realmalliance.com Learn more about the American Coal Council → www.americancoalcouncil.org Follow ACC on Social Media: LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter) Subscribe to American Coal Magazine → Magazine Link Learn More About the Miami Coal Forum or Register Now → Miami Coal Forum

Episode Description

In this special Coal Nation episode, host Steve Read is joined by Travis Deti, Executive Director of the Wyoming Mining Association, and Christian Palich, Vice President of Government Affairs at Eagle Summit Resources, to celebrate a unique fusion of tradition and industry — the Cowboys and Coal football game.

Held during one of college football's oldest rivalries — the Wyoming Cowboys vs. Colorado State Rams Border War— this year's game shines a national spotlight on America's coal miners. The trio discusses how this idea came to life, the powerful symbolism behind the black "Coal Rush" uniforms, and what this means for the state's identity and future.

From the bronze boot and tailgates in Laramie to a nationwide resurgence in coal optimism, this episode captures pride, energy, and the enduring legacy of the people who power America.

Key Takeaways

• A Game with Purpose: How Wyoming's iconic Border War football rivalry became a celebration of coal miners and the state's heritage.

• The Genesis of "Cowboys and Coal": How conversations at the state capitol turned into a statewide event honoring the industry that built Wyoming.

• A National Stage for Coal: The significance of having the game nationally televised, bringing awareness to coal's role in American life.

• Renewed Optimism: Why 2025 marks a turning point in U.S. energy policy — with increased demand, new hiring, and a government shifting toward an "all that works" energy strategy.

• Inspiring the Next Generation: How the University of Wyoming is helping young people understand coal's economic and cultural importance.

• Coal Pride Returns: From "Coal Rush" uniforms to tailgates with 250+ miners — this is a story of pride, power, and Wyoming's unity around coal.

Resources & Links: Learn more about the American Coal Council → www.americancoalcouncil.org Follow ACC on Social Media: LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter) Subscribe to American Coal Magazine → Magazine Link

Host Emily Arthun traveled to Core Natural Resources in Tridelphia, WV, to sit down with Dan Connell, senior vice president - innovations, to explore how coal innovation is driving a true renaissance. From aerospace composites and advanced carbon materials, to a cooling visor worn by Olympic athletes, this in-depth conversation shows how coal is shaping industries far beyond energy.

Together, Emily and Dan explore how coal is driving a new renaissance — from power and infrastructure to cutting-edge applications in aerospace, advanced composites and energy storage.

Dan shares insights into the formation of Core Natural Resources through the Arch and Consol merger and takes listeners inside the company's Innovation Center where coal-derived materials are being transformed into carbon foam, aerospace parts, cooling visors worn by Olympic athletes and even sustainable decking products.

The conversation also highlights the Coal Hard Truth campaign, the importance of metallurgical coal's recognition as a critical resource and the broader effort to reshape coal's image for the next generation of innovators.

Key Takeaways

• How Core Natural Resources is reshaping the industry through innovation and mergers.

• Why coal remains essential for both energy and industrial applications worldwide.

• Breakthrough uses of coal in aerospace, advanced carbon materials and sustainable building products.

• The story behind the Coal Hard Truth campaign and its impact on public perception.

• Why educating the next generation is critical for coal's long-term future.

Resources & Links: Learn more about the American Coal Council → www.americancoalcouncil.org Follow ACC on Social Media: LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter) Subscribe to American Coal Magazine → Magazine Link Learn more about Core Natural Resources → https://corenaturalresources.com/

Thank you to our sponsor: Elgin, An Astec Product Line → elginseparationsolutions.com

In this episode of the Coal Nation podcast, host Emily Arthun, CEO of the American Coal Council, is joined by members of the Coal Users Group Board of Directors: Bob Taylor, Grant Grothen, Byron Lawrence, and Andrew J. Cofas. Together, they explore the exciting new collaboration between the American Coal Council (ACC) and the Coal Users' Group (CUG)—a collaboration that brings together decades of industry leadership to co-host the Coal Innovation & Market Strategies Conference in Park City, Utah this August for the first time as a joint effort.

This episode dives into the shared mission of both organizations to advance the coal industry through safety, innovation, peer-to-peer leadership development, and strategic dialogue. The panel shares how this partnership aims to create a stronger, more unified voice across the coal supply chain at a time when coal's value must be reinforced and reimagined for the future.

Key Takeaways

• The Coal Users' Group (CUG) promotes safe, efficient, and effective coal use through shared knowledge and peer support.

• Collaboration with the American Coal Council (ACC) allows for greater reach and industry impact.

• Safety practices remain at the forefront of operations across the coal sector.

• Peer networking is critical for leadership development and knowledge sharing.

• The Coal Innovation & Market Strategies Conference will serve as a vital touchpoint for industry professionals to exchange solutions.

• Coal continues to be a relevant and strategic resource in the global energy mix.

• Telling coal's story through the lens of innovation and reliability is key to public understanding.

• A coal renaissance is underway, with emerging technologies leading the charge.

• This joint effort signals a unified direction for coal's role in energy and economic security.

Resources & Links: Learn more about the American Coal Council → www.americancoalcouncil.org Follow ACC on Social Media: LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter) Subscribe to American Coal Magazine → Magazine Link Learn more about the Coal Users' Group → www.coalusersgroup.org Thank you to our sponsor: Elgin, An Astec Product Line → elginseparationsolutions.com

Coal Innovation & Market Strategies Conference: Register Now! USE PROMO CODE: ACCPOD to Register and Secure Special Rate of $900 to Attend!

In this episode of Coal Nation, host Emily Arthun speaks with Michelle Manook of Future Coal about the evolution of coal advocacy, the importance of education, and the innovations that are shaping the future of the coal industry. They discuss the need for collaboration across nations, the role of coal in developing economies, and the significance of sustainable coal stewardship. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding coal's impact on everyday life and the necessity for the industry to improve through technology and innovation.

Key Takeaways

• Coal is an integral part of modern life.

• Education about coal's benefits is crucial.

• The narrative around coal needs to change.

• Sustainable coal stewardship is essential for the future.

• Coal can contribute to energy security and economic prosperity.

• Developing nations rely on coal for growth.

• Collaboration across nations is necessary for coal's future.

• Innovation in coal technology is vital.

• The coal industry must embrace continuous improvement.

• Every citizen plays a role in supporting coal.

Resources & Links: Learn more about the American Coal Council → www.americancoalcouncil.org Follow ACC on Social Media: LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter) Subscribe to American Coal Magazine → Magazine Link Thank you to our episode sponsor: Hilliard Corporation → hilliardcorp.com

Coal Innovation & Market Strategies Conference: Register Now! USE PROMO CODE: ACCPOD to Register and Secure Special Rate of $900 to Attend!

In this episode of Coal Nation, host Steve Read engages with experts Siew Hua Seah and Alex Thackrah from Argus Media to explore the current state of global coal markets, focusing on both metallurgical and thermal coal. The discussion covers supply challenges, price dynamics, and the impact of global demand on U.S. coal exports. The experts provide insights into the competitive landscape, including the effects of international tariffs and the strategies of major coal exporters. The conversation highlights the complexities of the coal market and the factors influencing future trends. In this episode, the discussion revolves around the complexities of the coal market, focusing on tariffs, demand trends, and pricing strategies. The speakers analyze the impact of tariffs on US coal exports, particularly to China, and the dynamics of demand in the Atlantic Basin. They also explore the challenges faced by producers in a fluctuating price environment and the implications of high inventory levels in China. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding market fundamentals and the future outlook for coal pricing amidst global economic shifts. Key Takeaways

• The metallurgical coal market is facing challenges due to weak Asia Pacific prices.
• Thermal coal prices have dropped significantly due to reduced demand from China.
• U.S. coal producers are looking to expand into Southeast Asia and India.
• Supply disruptions in Australia have not significantly impacted pricing.
• The competition from low-cost producers like Russia and Mongolia is affecting U.S. coal demand.
• Major exporters are adjusting their strategies in response to market conditions.
• The U.S. coal market is experiencing a shift in demand dynamics due to tariffs.
• High freight costs are impacting U.S. coal's competitiveness in Asia.
• The energy market in Europe is experiencing volatility, affecting coal prices.
• Future demand for coal may be influenced by seasonal weather patterns and policy changes. Tariffs on Chinese vessels impact US competitiveness.
• Brazilian demand has provided some market support.
• US exports are expected to face disruptions this year.
• Chinese coal inventories are at record highs.
• Fixed price trades are becoming less common due to volatility.
• The market is seeing a shift towards index-linked pricing.
• Smaller producers are struggling in the current price environment.
• India's coal production is meeting targets more consistently.
• Tariffs could lead to a focus on domestic production in China and India.
• The coal market is influenced by broader economic conditions.

In this episode of Coal Nation, host Emily Arthun is joined by Lorali Simon and Christian Palich to reflect on a historic moment at the White House and what it means for the future of American coal. Together, they explore the coal industry's evolving role in U.S. energy policy, the impacts of recent executive actions, and the need for fair environmental regulation.

From Alaska's unique coal landscape to the role coal plays in powering emerging technologies like AI, the conversation highlights both the challenges and opportunities ahead. The guests underscore the importance of community engagement, education, and regulatory reform in ensuring a viable and responsible future for coal in America.

Whether you're part of the industry, a policymaker, or simply energy-curious, this episode offers a nuanced perspective on coal's enduring role in powering progress.

Key Takeaways

• Policy Shifts: Recent executive orders have created new momentum for the coal industry.

• Energy Independence: Coal remains a cornerstone of America's path to energy resilience.

• Environmental Fairness: Past regulations have disproportionately impacted coal; future policies must be balanced.

• Technological Innovation: Advances in coal technology are enabling cleaner, more efficient energy production.

• Community Connection: Coal miners are stewards of the land and pillars in their communities.

• Export Outlook: Alaska's coal industry faces hurdles, but rising demand—especially in Asia—presents opportunity.

• Educating the Public: A broader understanding of coal's role in modern society and technology (including AI) is needed.

• Economic Impact: Coal supports local economies and plays a critical role in addressing global energy poverty.

• Industry Legacy: Honoring the contributions of miners while innovating for the future is central to coal's long-term viability.

• Policy Engagement: Active involvement with lawmakers and the public is essential for shaping coal's future.

Coal Nation: Episode 2 — "Coal Is Too Valuable to Burn" with Randall Atkins

Welcome back to Coal Nation, the official podcast of the American Coal Council. In this powerful second episode, ACC CEO Emily Arthun sits down with Randall Atkins — a leading voice in the transformation of the coal industry and Chairman & CEO of Ramaco Resources. From rare earth elements to carbon innovation, this episode explores coal's evolving role in America's economy, energy future, and technological landscape.

🧠 In This Episode

• The surprising global dynamics of coal usage — and why the U.S. is lagging

• How coal's image is shifting: from "dirty fuel" to "carbon ore"

• Innovations in advanced carbon products and rare earth extraction

• Why AI, defense, and clean tech all depend on coal's future

• What policymakers and industry leaders must do now to stay competitive

• The two-for-one power of coal: energy + critical materials

• The importance of permitting reform and American mineral independence

• Why, in Randall's words, "coal is too valuable to burn"

💡 Rapid-Fire with Randy Get to know Randall Atkins as he shares his proudest career moment, advice for young professionals, and the one innovation he's most excited about.

🗣️ Quotable Moments

• "Coal is too valuable to burn."

• "We don't even call it coal anymore — we call it carbon ore."

• "Let's leave no molecule behind."

• "There's a very benign side to coal — it's really carbon."

🎧 Listen + Subscribe Don't miss a moment of Coal Nation. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and share this episode with colleagues, policymakers, and anyone who cares about America's energy future.

💬 Join the Conversation We want to hear from you! What's your take on the future of coal? Share your thoughts with us on LinkedIn, X (Twitter), or at americancoalcouncil.org.

The Voice of the U.S. Coal Industry Host: Steve Read, Past President, American Coal Council (ACC) Guests:

• Emily Arthun, CEO, American Coal Council
• Kelli Sweet, Immediate Past President, ACC
• Bill McFadden, Current President, ACC
• Fran Taglia, President-Elect, ACC

Episode Overview: Welcome to the inaugural episode of Coal Nation, the official podcast of the American Coal Council. Hosted by ACC Past President Steve Read, this episode sets the stage for the podcast's mission: to inform, educate, and connect professionals across the U.S. coal supply chain. The conversation features key ACC leaders who discuss the Council's advocacy efforts, industry outlook, and the pivotal role of coal in America's economy and energy infrastructure. Key Topics Covered: ACC's Rebranding & Five Pillars: CEO Emily Arthun outlines ACC's mission-driven approach, emphasizing industry advocacy, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement. Policy & Advocacy: ACC leadership shares insights on legislative priorities, permitting challenges, and the importance of engaging with policymakers in Washington, D.C. Coal's Role in the Energy Transition: With the rising demand for reliable energy, how does coal continue to provide stability in the U.S. and global markets? International Markets & U.S. Exports: A discussion on how U.S. coal is meeting growing global demand, particularly in Asia and South America. Industry Innovation & The Future of Coal: The panel highlights technological advancements in coal, including rare earth minerals extraction and emerging applications for carbon materials. The Importance of ACC Membership: Why industry professionals must stay engaged, collaborate, and advocate for coal's future. Resources & Links: Learn more about the American Coal Council → www.americancoalcouncil.org Follow ACC on Social Media: LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join ACC's DC Fly-In Advocacy Event → Event Details Subscribe to American Coal Magazine → Magazine Link Thank you to our episode sponsor: Hilliard Corporation → hilliardcorp.com