Who knew cactus could be the future of clean energy and sustainable farming? Rhiannon Parker, the brains behind Loop Bioproducts, is flipping the script by turning prickly pear into biofuels, eco-friendly products, and a lifeline for dry, worn-out land. We get into her wild ride from neuroscience to oil and gas to renewable energy, why she bootstrapped her company instead of chasing VC money, and how she’s weaving regenerative agriculture and indigenous knowledge into the heart of everything she builds. Plus, a peek into her passion project, the Loop Institute, where she’s sparking a new wave of STEM innovation.

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00:00 - Energy Tech Nexus
00:15 - Intro
01:29 - What is Loop Bioproducts
06:12 - Skills from Previous Experiences
09:34 - Value of Diverse Experience
12:57 - Importance of Cactus in Sustainability
17:34 - Cactus Photosynthesis Process
20:40 - Mechanical Harvesting Techniques
21:36 - Loop Bioproducts Business Model
23:26 - Sourcing Cactus for Production
26:40 - Acquiring Land for Agriculture
31:41 - Regenerative Agriculture Practices
36:26 - Importance of Timing in Agriculture
39:34 - Current Consumer Trends
43:40 - Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainability
49:00 - Understanding Biopiracy Issues
50:00 - Reasons for Avoiding Venture Capital
55:10 - Statistical Behavior in Business
57:55 - Expertise in Emerging Industries
01:03:05 - Contacting Loop Bioproducts and The Loop Institute

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