Critical minerals and rare earth elements are pivotal for the advancement of new energy technologies, yet their supply is predominantly controlled by China, posing significant challenges and risks for global energy security. This episode features Dr. Nedal Nassar, Chief of the Materials Intelligence Research at the US Geological Survey, and Dr. Adam Simon, Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Michigan. They delve into the complexities of global supply and demand, the geopolitical implications, and the prospects of developing new mineral mines in the US to ensure a more secure and stable supply chain.