Shape the System

Shape the System

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Shape the System episodes

  • Don Weatherbee - regenx
    About the Guest(s):

    Don Weatherbee is the CEO of Regenexx, a forward-thinking organization focused on innovative precious metals recovery techniques. Transitioning from an accounting background, Don has extensive experience in the mining sector, including coal and oil sands, before joining Regenexx in 2015. His operational expertise coupled with leadership roles has equipped him with the tools to helm Regenexx's ambitious endeavors in sustainable technology and precious metal recycling.

    Episode Summary:

    In this engaging episode of "Shape the System," host Vincent Turner converses with Don Weatherbee, CEO of Regenexx, unveiling the intricacies of precious metals recycling. Exploring a world often overshadowed, Don narrates his journey from a traditional mining accountant to a sustainability-driven CEO, revolutionizing how we perceive and process precious metals from resources like catalytic converters.

    As the discussion unfolds, Don highlights the critical deficit in the supply of platinum group metals (PGMs), exacerbated by geopolitical issues and finite earth resources. He articulates the unique Regenexx leaching technology that mitigates environmental impact and harnesses economic potential by efficiently recycling PGMs from used catalytic converters. The conversation further delves into the significance of PGMs in global industries, the current obstacles in traditional recycling methods, and the promising innovations spearheaded by Regenexx.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Precious Metals Recycling: Regenexx is pioneering a revolutionary hydrometallurgical process to recover platinum group metals from catalytic converters, spotlighting the scarcity of these critical resources.
    • Industry Insights: The global demand for PGMs is rising, with supply already in deficit by 259,000oz annually, leading to increased focus on sustainable recycling over traditional mining.
    • Environmental Benefits: The Regenexx method minimizes the environmental footprint associated with mining and traditional recycling, emphasizing the crucial need for earth-friendly resource recovery techniques.
    • Economic Viability: Regenexx aims to scale operations, reflecting a significant market opportunity within the $20 billion catalytic converter industry and beyond.
    • Strategic Expansion: Future growth plans include geographic expansion and potential international licensing, aligning with the mission to broaden sustainable metal recovery practices globally.
    Notable Quotes:
    1. "Precious metals are the most rare metals in the earth's crust."
    2. "Platinum and palladium are essential oxidizers and conductors used in catalytic converters and fuel cells."
    3. "Our hydrometallurgical process is transforming precious metals recovery with minimal environmental impact."
    4. "Mining alone can't meet future global demands; recycling is crucial to sustain growth."
    5. "We're at a commercial scaling inflection point, with vast opportunities ahead in sustainable recycling."
    Resources:
    • Regenexx: regenexx.com
    • Canadian Exchanges and Trading Symbols: RGX (Canada), RGXT (US)

    Engage fully with this episode to explore the transformative potential of sustainable precious metals recycling. Stay tuned for additional insightful content from the "Shape the System" series, where more innovative stories and thought leaders await to reshape how we consider the world around us.

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

     

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    45 min
  • Hugo Spowers - Riversimple
    About the Guest(s):

    Hugo Spowers
    Hugo Spowers is a pioneer in sustainable auto technology and the founder of Riversimple, a company dedicated to developing hydrogen fuel cell cars. With a background in mechanical engineering and a deep interest in environmental sustainability, he left a career in motor racing to focus on creating a new kind of vehicle that could revolutionize personal mobility. Riversimple aims to create highly efficient, eco-friendly cars through innovative design and business models, setting new standards for the automotive industry.

    Episode Summary:

    In this episode of "Shape the System," host Vincent Turner interviews Hugo Spowers, founder of Riversimple, a groundbreaking company focusing on hydrogen fuel cell cars. This enlightening conversation covers Hugo's journey from a career in motor racing to becoming a leader in sustainable transportation. They delve deep into technical and systemic issues plaguing current automotive models and explore the revolutionary changes Riversimple is bringing to the industry, starting from the business model and extending to the manufacturing process.

    Hugo Spowers discusses the need for a complete redesign of how cars are built and sold to make them truly sustainable. He explains the drawbacks of current vehicles, from massive CO2 emissions to the hazardous particulates released from tyres, and how the auto industry's existing business models exacerbate these issues. Riversimple, by contrast, never sells cars outright but offers them as a service package that includes fuel and maintenance, thus aligning the company's profitability with sustainability goals.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Innovative Business Model: Riversimple offers cars as a service rather than selling them outright, internalizing all costs to focus on longevity and efficiency.
    • Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology: Hydrogen fuel cells are a highly efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional internal combustion engines and even some electric batteries.
    • Systemic Change Over Incremental Change: Transitioning to sustainable vehicles requires a complete overhaul of current systems rather than small, iterative changes.
    • Weight and Efficiency: Reducing the weight of vehicles dramatically improves their efficiency and reduces negative impacts, such as tyre particulate emissions and resource consumption.
    • Collaborative Ecosystems: Building a sustainable transportation system involves aligning the interests of multiple stakeholders, including local authorities, manufacturers, and consumers.
    Notable Quotes:
    1. Hugo Spowers: “We will never sell a car; we'll only sell a service. That’s how we align our interests with sustainability.”
    2. Hugo Spowers: “Our cars do feel significantly different to your average modern car, very direct and engaging.”
    3. Hugo Spowers: “We save more money on the fuel for the car over the life of the car than the premium we pay for the carbon fiber.”
    4. Hugo Spowers: “There's no way to do this incrementally. It's a step change opportunity at a systems level.”
    5. Hugo Spowers: “It’s not just about improving technology; it’s about changing the business model that makes sustainability profitable.”
    Resources:
    • Riversimple Website
    • "Natural Capitalism" by Paul Hawken and Amory Lovins
    • Dame La truck CEO's comments on charging electric trucks
    • Hisata's efficiency claims for their electrolyzer

    Listen to the full episode to discover how Riversimple is poised to transform the landscape of personal mobility through innovative, sustainable design and business models. Stay tuned for more insights and stories on "Shape the System."

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures

     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    1 hr 14 min
  • Wayne McIntyre - Relocalize
    About the Guest(s):

    Wayne McIntyre is the CEO and co-founder of Relocalize, a groundbreaking startup focused on transforming the production and distribution of food and beverages. With a robust background in technology startups and leadership roles, Wayne has a unique perspective that blends his personal passion for environmental sustainability with professional expertise. He holds over two decades of experience in diverse markets, having transitioned from a corporate lawyer in the U.S. to a pioneer in decarbonization efforts for food systems.

    Episode Summary:

    In this engaging episode of "Shape the System," host Vincent Turner converses with Wayne McIntyre, the co-founder and CEO of Relocalize. The dialogue dives deep into the mechanics and innovations aimed at disrupting the centralized model of food and beverage production. Turner and McIntyre explore the complexities of our current food system, emphasizing the inefficiencies and environmental impacts brought about by extensive logistics and supply chains. The discussion offers keen insights into how modern technologies like AI, automation, and the Internet of Things are making it possible to decentralize production at a micro scale, thereby reducing costs and carbon footprints.

    Wayne McIntyre elaborates on the unique journey of Relocalize, from its conception to its current operations. He sheds light on the strategic choice of starting with packaged ice due to its high logistic costs and monopoly-driven market dynamics. The conversation transitions into the economic and environmental advantages of microfactories, the technological challenges encountered, and the promising future of expanding this model to other food and beverage products. McIntyre highlights that through the use of autonomous microfactories, Relocalize can produce ice and other items at a lower cost, ensuring a more sustainable future for food and beverage distribution.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Innovative Production Models: By leveraging AI, robotics, and the Internet of Things, Relocalize has developed autonomous microfactories that significantly cut down on traditional logistic costs and carbon emissions.
    • Strategic Entry with Packaged Ice: The choice to start with packaged ice allows Relocalize to disrupt a monopolized market with a high logistical expense, offering both economic and environmental benefits.
    • Economic Efficiency: The microfactory model reduces costs by eliminating the need for extensive trucking, warehousing, and other traditional supply chain requirements.
    • Autonomous Operations: The technology stack enables remote management and predictive maintenance, ensuring high uptime and reduced operational costs.
    • Future Expansion: With a proven model in the ice market, Relocalize aims to extend its microfactory approach to beverages and possibly fresh food products, aligning with long-term goals of decarbonizing the food system.
    Notable Quotes:
    1. "Our vision for relocalize right from the beginning was, whether it's a tomato or a package of ice, how do we make something at that distribution center and take that whole value chain right from the beginning and collapse it?"
    2. "The only way we can do this is to take complete control of that system. We need to own that chain. Actually, even better, we need to get rid of the entire chain."
    3. "This is a market that really is ripe for disruption and in so many ways, because not only is it geographic monopolists, you know, they're very happy where they are. They're order takers, ultimately."
    4. "We really proved the things that could be proven and the things that didn't work. We learned a lot from that. Right now, we're building that first full-scale system."
    5. "I'm really looking forward to there being 100 companies like us pursuing this opportunity. Because at the end of the day, we need to get food off of trucks, we need to decarbonize our food system."
    Resources:
    • Relocalize: Website
    • KPMG High Growth Ventures: Website

    Tune in to the full episode to uncover more about how Relocalize is aiming to decarbonize and transform our food systems. Stay connected for more insightful episodes from Shape the System!

     

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    54 min
  • Peter Vranes - Nutromics
    About the Guest(s):

    Peter Vranes is the co-founder and CEO of Nutromics. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, Peter previously took a skincare company from startup to a successful trade sale. Fascinated by health diagnostics, he shifted his focus to medtech. Alongside co-founder Hitesh Mehta, Peter is on a mission to revolutionize health diagnostics and patient outcomes through continuous biosensing technology. Under his leadership, Nutromics has raised $55 million and assembled a team of 60 experts in Melbourne and San Diego.

    Episode Summary:

    In this episode of Shape the System, host Vincent Turner speaks with Peter Vranes, co-founder of Nutromics, about revolutionizing health diagnostics to improve patient outcomes. Peter shares his journey from the skincare industry to pioneering technology in medtech. The discussion introduces Nutromics' innovative approach to continuous health monitoring through biosensors, aimed at transforming reactive healthcare into a proactive model.

    The conversation delves into the current state of patient diagnostics, emphasizing its inefficiencies and limitations. Peter illustrates how critical diagnostic markers often fluctuate quickly, making timely and continuous data crucial for effective treatment decisions. He explains how Nutromics' platform leverages DNA-based biosensors to provide real-time monitoring, thus addressing life-threatening conditions like heart attacks and sepsis with unprecedented accuracy and speed. The discussion also touches on the company's collaboration with top-tier universities and its future plans to extend the technology's reach from hospitals to everyday individual health monitoring.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Legacy Diagnostic Systems: Today's healthcare heavily relies on blood draws that provide single data points, often delayed, for over 70% of clinical decisions, which can lead to inefficiencies and life-threatening oversights.
    • Continuous Monitoring: Nutromics is developing a platform of DNA-based sensors to provide continuous, real-time health data, crucial for conditions with rapidly changing biomarkers like heart attacks and drug dosages for sepsis.
    • Target Vertical Integration: Nutromics strategically focuses on high-impact verticals (ICU, cardiology, renal, etc.) to establish strong use cases and optimize their technology's application before a broader rollout.
    • Proactive Healthcare Vision: The ultimate goal is shifting from reactive to proactive healthcare by creating a system that alerts individuals of health issues before they become symptomatic.
    • Collaborative Innovation: Peter underscores the importance of collaborating with world-class researchers and being persistent in securing and developing groundbreaking technologies.
    Notable Quotes:
    1. "70% of all clinical decisions are based on lab diagnostics like the ones we described; the current system has been a legacy system for decades."
    2. "The holy grail of healthcare is shifting from a reactive to a proactive model, rendering symptomatic diagnosis obsolete."
    3. "We are on our way to revolutionizing diagnostics, which is what we're trying to do."
    4. "When you know you've got a tech that can save someone's life and people are dying today because this isn't in the market, you have to go."
    5. "We feel privileged to be given the opportunity to do this. That's what drives us, that legacy we are going to leave behind."
    Resources:
    • Nutromics Website: Nutromics
    • University of California, Santa Barbara: UCSB
    • Tim Ferriss' Books: The Four-Hour Body, The Four-Hour Workweek

    Dive deep into the future of health diagnostics with Peter Vranes and learn how Nutromics is changing the system. Don’t miss this insightful episode and stay tuned for more transformative stories from Shape the System.

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]


     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    43 min
  • Paul Frasca - Sustainable Salons
    About the Guest(s):

    Paul Frasca: Paul Frasca is a co-founder of Sustainable Salons, an organization dedicated to minimizing waste in the beauty industry by turning salon waste into valuable resources. With a background in hairdressing and a keen interest in sustainability inspired by his partner Evelina, Paul has been pivotal in introducing sustainable practices into salons across Australia and New Zealand. Paul is also involved in innovative recycling solutions, such as using human hair for oil spill cleanups and creating fertilizers.

    Episode Summary:

    In this captivating episode of Shape the System, host Vincent Turner welcomes Paul Frasca, co-founder of Sustainable Salons, to discuss the revolutionary impact of sustainability in the hair and beauty industry. Turner’s humorous remark on discussing hair without personally having any sets a light tone for the intense subject matter. Frasca shares his journey from hairdressing to pioneering sustainability initiatives, influenced in part by his italian heritage and sustainable living principles inherited from his grandparents.

    The conversation dives deep into the specific waste challenges within salons, including metals, plastics, and human hair, and how Sustainable Salons has developed innovative solutions to transform these waste products into valuable resources. Using hair to clean up oil spills and create fertilizers are just two of their groundbreaking initiatives. Paul also sheds light on the logistics and operational challenges behind making sustainability viable, capturing the importance of point-to-point solutions and vertical integration in recycling. The episode underscores the need for industries to adapt swiftly to sustainability norms and the role of brands in driving this change.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Sustainable Salons Initiatives: Sustainable Salons tackles waste in hair salons by recycling metals, plastics, and even human hair, converting these into useful products like hair booms for oil spills and fertilizers.
    • Three-Pillar Approach: The organization’s sustainability strategy focuses on people, planet, and profit, ensuring that environmental solutions also benefit communities and businesses financially.
    • Educational Outreach: The company integrates sustainability into educational frameworks, making it a part of the curriculum in hairdressing schools to inspire future generations.
    • Reverse Logistics: Effective recycling relies on sophisticated reverse logistics and point-to-point solutions, which Sustainable Salons has meticulously developed.
    • Global Potential: Sustainable Salons is setting a precedent in Australia and New Zealand, with potential applications in other regions and industries, encouraging innovation and partnership in sustainability practices globally.
    Notable Quotes:
    1. "I never came from some green world… I was born in Australia, but having italian migrants, grandparents and parents, they grew up a very different way." - Paul Frasca
    2. "Each boom, just to give you some stats, can hold up to eight times its weight, and it's highly attractive to oil." - Paul Frasca
    3. "So we've had to build it from scratch. And right now we have far better software than the courier companies do." - Paul Frasca
    4. "If we're going to solve this egg, we’re going to have to crack it, right? We're going to have to really get in here and solve this problem." - Paul Frasca
    5. "The way you're thinking is just so 1980s, it's dead. You've got to rethink sustainability from the ground up." - Paul Frasca
    Resources:
    • Sustainable Salons: Website
    • Teslar: Website
    • Critical: Website
    • Soils Alive: Website
    • Oz Harvest: Website
    • Kiwi Harvest: Website

    For more insights and to stay updated on groundbreaking sustainable solutions in various industries, make sure to listen to this episode and stay tuned for more content from Shape the System.

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]


     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    50 min
  • Christa Stelzmuller - Charity Water
    About the Guest(s):

    Christa Stelzmuller: Christa Stelzmuller is a prominent technologist and leader currently serving at charity: water, an organization dedicated to bringing clean and safe water to people in developing countries. With a rich background in consulting and startups, particularly in mission-driven enterprises, Christa combines her technical expertise and passion for social impact to drive charity: water's technology and data initiatives. She has been instrumental in integrating innovative technological solutions to enhance both operational efficiency and donor engagement within the organization.

    Episode Summary:

    In this riveting episode of Shape the System, host Vincent Turner engages with Christa Stelzmuller from charity: water to delve into the critical issues surrounding global water infrastructure and how technology plays a pivotal role in transforming lives. Christa shares her journey from consulting and startups to spearheading technological advancements at charity: water, driven by a mission to bring clean, safe water to communities in need. The episode highlights the organization’s innovative efforts in using sensors and data to ensure water sustainability and impact.

    As they explore the state of water infrastructure, Christa outlines the challenges faced by millions who lack basic access to clean water, spanning across Africa and Southeast Asia. She discusses how charity: water utilizes technology, such as IoT sensors, to monitor water projects and ensure their long-term sustainability. The discussion also touches on the broader impact of clean water on health, education, and economic opportunities within communities. Christa reveals how charity: water's data-driven approach not only enhances their operations but also builds transparency and trust with donors.

    Key Takeaways:
    • The Technology Behind Clean Water: Charity: water leverages innovative technological solutions, including IoT sensors, to monitor and ensure the long-term sustainability of water projects in remote areas.
    • Impact on Communities: Access to clean water directly influences education, health, and economic opportunities, particularly empowering women and girls.
    • Dual Funding Model: Charity: water's unique approach separates donor funds into operational expenses and direct project funding, ensuring 100% of certain donations go straight to water projects.
    • Brand and Partnerships: Strategic storytelling and brand partnerships play a critical role in building trust and expanding charity: water’s impact globally.
    • Data and Growth Strategies: The organization employs data-driven tactics common in e-commerce to attract and retain donors, maximizing their mission's reach and effectiveness.
    Notable Quotes:
    1. "703 million people lack basic access to clean water in the world today." – Christa Stelzmuller
    2. "Water has a follow-on impact to many of the UN Sustainable Development Goals." – Christa Stelzmuller
    3. "Charity: water was looking for technologists and really thinking about technologists and engineers as revenue drivers." – Christa Stelzmuller
    4. "The 100% model was established to reinforce the idea of being able to trust where your dollar is going to go." – Christa Stelzmuller
    5. "Our mission is our product." – Christa Stelzmuller
    Resources:
    • Charity: water website
    • Vincent Turner's LinkedIn
    • UN Sustainable Development Goals

    For more captivating insights and to experience how charity: water is revolutionizing access to clean water through technology and data, listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more episodes of Shape the System.

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]


     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    51 min
  • Aditya Nagrath - Elephant Learning
    About the Guest(s):

    Dr. Aditya Nagrath is a distinguished individual with a profound background in mathematics and computer science, highlighted by his PhD from the University of Denver. Following his academic ventures, he founded Elephant Head Software, a dynamic contract software engineering firm that rapidly launched over 35 product lines, consisting of 50 applications with an efficient team of engineers. Building on this momentum, Dr. Nagrath spearheaded the innovative math education platform, Elephant Learning, which is designed to empower children's understanding of mathematics as a language.

    Episode Summary:

    In this engaging episode of "Shape the System," host Vincent Turner invites Dr. Aditya Nagrath to the conversation to discuss the evolution and challenges of mathematics education. The episode sets off with a discussion on the diverse educational systems within the United States and how they are adapting (or not) to modern pedagogical insights, particularly in the realm of mathematics education.

    The episode delves into Dr. Nagrath's Elephant Learning platform, which leverages adaptive algorithms to make mathematics education more conceptual, akin to learning a language. The system, designed with user engagement in mind, presents mathematics as puzzle games and promises significant improvements in students' math learning within a short timeframe. Highlighting the platform's scholarship program, the episode also touches upon the challenges and strategies of making high-quality math education accessible to economically diverse populations.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Mathematics education in the US varies greatly due to a decentralized system across states and districts, leading to disparities in teaching methods and outcomes.
    • Dr. Nagrath emphasizes the importance of conceptual understanding in mathematics, likening it to learning a language—both require immersive and experiential learning for mastery.
    • Elephant Learning's platform addresses math education by providing personal, adaptive learning experiences, aiming to reduce math anxiety and increase proficiency.
    • The learning system promises an average of 1.67 years of math progress within 13 weeks, reshaping how children interact with the subject.
    • A financial model that ensures engagement: Elephant Learning's scholarship program charges a variable fee based on income to maintain a value perception and consistent usage among learners.
    Notable Quotes:
    • "The value in the human knowledge is, can I instruct the computer to do it, or can I get the calculator to do it?" - Dr. Aditya Nagrath.
    • "Four out of five students are starting kindergarten unprepared…mathematics is the answer." - Dr. Aditya Nagrath.
    • "As long as you understand the teacher and it's fun. Well, you're not anxious of it, right." - Dr. Aditya Nagrath.
    • "The value in any human being's mind for anything is the dollar value ascribed that you paid for it." - Dr. Aditya Nagrath.
    Resources:
    • Dr. Aditya Nagrath: Elephant Head Software
    • Scholarship Program: [Application Process](mention of a process but no direct URL provided)
    • Learning Platform: Elephant Learning

    For anyone eager to reshape a child’s relationship with mathematics and foster a deeper understanding in a fun, adaptive way, listen to the full episode for inspiring insights from Dr. Aditya Nagrath and learn about the breakthroughs of Elephant Learning. Stay tuned for more episodes from "Shape the System" that highlight innovative approaches to evolving the systems we live by.

     

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    50 min
  • Kat Roma Greer - Microgalleries
    About the Guest(s):

    Kat Roma Greer is the Artistic Director of Micro Galleries, a global roaming arts initiative that focuses on using art as a tool for positive change in under-resourced communities. With her expertise, Kat leads a team of creative individuals developing small-scale innovative solutions to address both local and global issues through artist residencies, workshops, and the well-known Micro Galleries Live Festival. She is deeply passionate about the intersection of art and social impact, particularly in regions undergoing issues such as climate disruption and unequal resource distribution.

    Episode Summary:

    In an enthralling episode of Shape the System, host Vincent Turner explores the transformative power of art with Kat Roma Greer, the dynamic force behind Micro Galleries. This conversation delves into the unique ability of art to address complex societal and environmental issues, highlighting the incredible initiative that Micro Galleries embodies. Engaging with creators from around the world, the platform harnesses creativity to inspire change and offer innovative perspectives on pressing challenges.

    Kat's work demonstrates a clear link between the arts, knowledge sharing, and problem-solving in a tangible form. Throughout the discussion, key points emerge regarding the importance of contextual understanding and empathy within the creative process. Covering a major concern in Chiang Mai, Thailand - the smoky season resulting from agricultural burning, Kat discusses the approach of using art to communicate deeper societal narratives that data alone cannot capture. The episode truly captures the essence and roles of artists in pushing boundaries, fostering dialogue, and imagining solutions that could potentially be carried forward by others with greater resources.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Micro Galleries is an initiative that uses art to generate social and environmental impact, primarily focusing on issues like equitable access and climate disruption.
    • The role of the artist extends beyond traditional boundaries, including complex idea generation, collaboration, and risk-taking to address and highlight societal problems.
    • Artistic interventions can effectively communicate the nuanced experiences of communities affected by global issues, potentially leading to innovative real-world solutions.
    • The episode discusses the historical role of art in presenting subversive commentary on political and societal issues, often leading to change or greater awareness.
    • The structure of Micro Galleries allows a blend of local and international artists to work on projects, creating a global network aimed at fostering creativity and social change.
    Notable Quotes:
    1. "We use the arts to address problems in under-resourced communities and work with them to creatively express those issues and find some solutions." - Kat Roma Greer
    2. "Artists have this unique ability to sit in that space, and from that comes some really fantastic possibilities and solutions that are kind of innovated or imagined up." - Kat Roma Greer
    3. "Artists are quite often some of the most intelligent and aware and well-read people that I encounter because they need to be, because of the work they're producing." - Kat Roma Greer
    4. "So a lot of artists, for example, will lend each other equipment and resources. So there's a lot of resource sharing that occurs." - Kat Roma Greer
    5. "We think we play a seeding role, a grassroots role, and we're connecting very much on the ground with the exact people that are affected by these issues." - Kat Roma Greer
    Resources:
    • Micro Galleries Website: Micro Galleries
    • Instagram Handle: @microgalleries
    • Facebook Page: Micro Galleries Facebook

    Join us for an inspiring journey through the world of creative activism with Kat Roma Greer on Shape the System. Tune into the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of how art intertwines with social and environmental discourse, and discover a community where art is truly being used as a catalyst for positive change. Stay connected for more enlightening conversations that challenge us to rethink the way the world works.

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]


     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    55 min
  • Ari Tulla - Elo
    About the Guest(s):

    Ari Tulla is a passionate healthcare entrepreneur focused on delivering better health solutions through technology and data. With his roots firmly planted in Finland, Ari has been a Bay Area resident for over 16 years, dedicating the last 14 to spearheading healthcare companies. His inspiration stemmed from personal challenges, as he and his wife faced a long journey with health issues, eventually leading to the birth of their children through IVF after overcoming obstacles tied to thyroid tumors and autoimmune diseases. Ari's prior ventures include BetterDoctor and Quest Analytics, where he led initiatives to improve healthcare accessibility. Currently, he’s the CEO of Elo, a company redefining personalized nutrition to combat chronic illnesses and promote overall health.

    Episode Summary:

    In this enlightening episode of Shape the System, host Vincent Turner engages with Ari Tulla in a profound discussion on transforming health outcomes through personalized nutrition. The episode sheds light on systemic health issues and the power of targeted intervention in creating more sustainable, healthy lifestyles.

    Ari Tulla delves into the detrimental effects of sugar consumption, the normalization of unhealthy food, and the rise in chronic conditions like obesity and metabolic diseases. He shares his journey from personal health struggles to entrepreneurship, grounding his mission in the desire to fundamentally reshape how people approach health, particularly through the lens of nutrition.

    Key insights into the inadequacies of the current healthcare systems are coupled with Ari's vision of utilizing data to tailor health solutions. By leveraging advancements like 3D-printed gummy vitamins and AI-driven models, Elo aspires to make precision nutrition a reality for a healthier society.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Chronic illnesses such as obesity and metabolic diseases are significantly influenced by the extensive intake of sugar and processed foods.
    • Personalized nutrition, affirmed by individual blood tests, can address specific deficiencies and improve overall health outcomes.
    • Engaging in healthy behaviors requires systemic changes, as current societal norms and commercial influences perpetuate unhealthy choices.
    • Innovations in data utilization and product personalization, like 3D-printed gummy vitamins, represent a new frontier in the field of nutrition.
    • Elo's expansion into B2B partnerships aims to scale the impact of personalized nutrition to broader audiences through established wellness-oriented communities.
    Notable Quotes:
    • "We possibly lost our son because we didn't have the right care at that moment and it felt really bad for us, of course." - Ari Tulla
    • "Food is the main cause [of chronic diseases]." - Ari Tulla
    • "Stop eating carbs in the morning. That will change everything." - Ari Tulla
    • "You have more sugar, so you're going to lose weight. And let's say multiply that by 1000 days." - Ari Tulla
    • "We're going to be talking to tens of thousands or more people who are coming from these partners." - Ari Tulla
    Resources:
    • Ari Tulla's LinkedIn: Profile
    • Elo's Website: https://www.elo.health/
    • Quest Analytics: https://questanalytics.com/
    • BetterDoctor: https://betterdoctor.com/

    Enjoyed the episode? Listen to the full conversation and join us as we continue exploring innovative ways to shape the system for a healthier tomorrow. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking content that challenges and inspires.

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    1 hr 6 min
  • Howard Pearl - Charitable Adult Rides
    About the Guest(s):

    Howard Pearl is the Chief Executive of Charitable Adult Rides and Services, Inc. (CARS), which operates under the parent nonprofit that has been functioning for 107 years and collaborates exclusively with nonprofits. Known for running the largest vehicle and real estate donation program in the US, CARS serves a broad range of clients, including renowned organizations like the American Red Cross, American Kidney Foundation, and Sierra Club, among many others. With more than 9000 clients, Howard leads CARS on its mission to maximize donations and funnel them back into various charitable causes.

    Episode Summary:

    In this thought-provoking episode of Shape the System, host Vincent Turner sits down with Howard Pearl, the trailblazing Chief Executive of CARS (Charitable Adult Rides and Services, Inc.), to delve into the intricate world of nonprofit organizations and their impact on our society. The conversation unfurls the nuances of charity inception, operations, and fundraising, shedding light on an ingenious model of asset-based contributions to generate funding for nonprofits.

    Howard Pearl shares compelling insights into the multi-faceted reasons that drive individuals to start and support various charitable causes, revealing the symbiotic relationship between those who wish to contribute to society and those in need. With a particular focus on CARS, Pearl elucidates the process and advantages of non-cash charitable contributions, specifically vehicle and real estate donations, and how they capitalize on consumer behavior to benefit thousands of charities across the US.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Nonprofits Arise from Altruism and Social Needs: Individuals start charities prompted both by altruistic desires to contribute and societal needs that require organized assistance.
    • Undesignated versus Designated Funding: Nonprofits thrive on undesignated funds as they offer flexibility in addressing the organization's immediate needs, as opposed to designated funding which is restricted to specific purposes dictated by donors.
    • Profitable Niche in Asset Donations: Vehicle and real estate donations are crucial sources of nonprofit funding due to their tendency to be motivated by convenience for the donor and potential tax benefits.
    • Redefining Nonprofit Innovation: Pearl discusses the 'On The Go' project, an initiative that aims to address transportation needs of seniors, showcasing how nonprofits can innovate to find new revenue sources while serving community needs.
    • Leading with Purpose: Howard Pearl's personal journey into nonprofit leadership highlights the value of applying commercial acumen to philanthropic efforts, bringing efficacy to altruism and driving systemic change.
    Notable Quotes:
    • "We are the largest vehicle and real estate donation program in the US that you have never heard of."
    • "The donor and the donors' wishes are, without a doubt, the single most important part of the equation."
    • "Undesignated funding… it's just money I can spend on anything that I legitimately need."
    • "It's a great asset class to give for a number of reasons… the tax implications are really huge."
    • "My job isn't any different than being the CEO of any other corporation… we will grow and change with [society]."
    Resources:
    • CARS (Charitable Adult Rides and Services, Inc.) Website: Not mentioned in the transcript
    • On The Go: otgrides.org as mentioned for the transportation initiative
    • KPMG High Growth Ventures: Not mentioned in the transcript

    Tune in to the full episode to follow Howard Pearl's enlightening insights on the transformative world of nonprofit organizations and how, through innovative methods, charities are reshaping the landscape of philanthropy. Stay connected for more engaging content that seeks to uncover how individuals and organizations shape the systems around us for the better.

     

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures


     

    More about KPMG High Growth Ventures

    Scale up for success. We’re here for that.
    We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. 

    From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we’ll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.

    Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. 

    Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.

    Links:

    Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/

    Contacts: [email protected]

    57 min

About Shape the System

From the publisher's feed

Find and tell the stories that inspire more people to rethink the way the world works. We interview people from all over the world who are changing our systems.. this might be food, energy, finance,…

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