In this conversation, Aimee Haasteaby and Cora Castle discuss the intersection of sustainability, technology, and community engagement. Cora shares her journey from a career in IT to becoming a change agent in sustainability, emphasizing the importance of electric vehicles, policy advocacy, and the role of nonprofits. They explore the challenges faced in the sustainability movement, including misinformation and the need for coalition-building. Cora also highlights the impact of AI on sustainability and the environmental implications of data centers. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage in their communities and support sustainable practices.

Takeaways

• Sustainable business is about how you do it.
• Cora Castle transitioned to a life of impact after realizing her potential.
• Building coalitions is essential for making meaningful changes.
• Sustainability faces challenges from misinformation and political interests.
• Many believe sustainable energy is not financially viable, which is a damaging myth.
• AI is intertwined with sustainability and presents both opportunities and challenges.
• Community engagement is crucial for effective policy change.
• Nonprofit board training can empower individuals to make a difference.
• Electric vehicles can significantly benefit the environment and society.
• Time saved from not visiting gas stations can be transformative. 

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability and Change Agents
• 01:40 Cora Castle's Journey to Sustainability
• 04:33 The Challenge of Electric Vehicles
• 09:10 Policy and Community Engagement in Sustainability
• 11:57 The Importance of Multidisciplinary Approaches
• 13:29 Navigating Resistance in Sustainability Efforts
• 16:22 The Role of AI in Sustainability
• 19:41 Ethical Considerations in AI and Sustainability
• 23:00 Understanding Sustainability Challenges
• 26:24 The Financial Myths of Sustainable Energy
• 29:22 Misinformation and Its Impact on Sustainability
• 30:56 Advocating for Electric Vehicle Accessibility
• 33:42 Empowering Communities Through Nonprofit Engagement
• 38:24 Call to Action: Get Involved!

Guest Name: Cora L. Castle
Guest Title: President & Founder, OmniPotential Energy Partners

Phone: 302-600-0749
Email: [email protected]

Cora Castle works at the intersection of climate action, equity, land use and technology. She is the President and founder of OmniPotential Energy Partners, LLC, a Wilmington-based clean energy startup. She is the inventor of patented EV charging technology, including the stand-alone Curbstar platform, designed to expand affordable, accessible charging in communities without private parking. Cora also serves as Executive Director of the Delaware Sustainable Chemistry Alliance (DESCA), where she supports STEM startups in bringing new innovations to market. Cora chairs Delaware state's LGBTQ+ commission and serves as vice chair of the New Castle County Land Use board. A dedicated policy advocate, she has spearheaded Delaware legislation enabling curbside residential EV charging as well as legislation promoting equality throughout the state.