From Chicken Manure to Clean Energy: Kristi Shaw's Journey with Mermaid Energy

Woodchuck.ai is Transforming Construction Waste into Energy, talk with Todd Thomas

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Todd Thomas, the CEO and founder of Woodchuck.ai, an innovative company tackling the dual challenges of waste management and energy generation. Todd shares the fascinating journey that led him to establish Woodchuck, driven by the need to divert wood waste from landfills and transform it into a sustainable energy source. With a staggering 42 million tons of wood waste generated from construction sites in the U.S. each year, Todd's mission is not only to reduce waste but also to meet the growing demand for renewable energy in a rapidly changing world. Throughout the conversation, Todd provides insights into his approach to sustainability, particularly in the context of data centers and electric vehicle (EV) battery factories. He highlights the importance of engaging local communities in dialogues about energy consumption and resource management, advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure that new developments yield benefits for everyone involved. The episode also touches on Todd's ventures in storytelling through books and a TV show, which have helped raise awareness about biomass and renewable energy solutions. * (00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts * (01:30) - - Guest Introduction: Todd Thomas * (02:15) - - Todd's Journey to Founding Woodchuck * (05:00) - - The Problem of Biomass and Waste * (07:30) - - Wood Waste: A Hidden Resource * (09:00) - - Working with Construction and Manufacturing * (11:15) - - Addressing Community Concerns about Data Centers * (14:45) - - Benefits of Well-Planned Data Centers * (17:30) - - Successful Project with Ford * (20:00) - - Circular Economy in Data Centers * (23:30) - - Innovations in Wood Waste Utilization * (26:00) - - The Role of Storytelling and Awareness * (30:00) - - Upcoming Book: Starving for Innovation * (32:45) - - Key Lessons Learned for Founders * (35:30) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts * (36:15) - - Resources and Where to Find More * (37:00) - - Thank You and Wrap-Up gWHlKrNGmSM4oTHjRQfL

From Chicken Manure to Clean Energy: Kristi Shaw's Journey with Mermaid Energy

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Kristi Shaw, the CEO and founder of Mermaid Energy, to discuss her remarkable journey from a rural Maryland upbringing to the forefront of renewable energy development in the Caribbean. Kristi shares her unique perspective as a marine biologist and public health expert, detailing her transition from academia to entrepreneurship. Her experiences with environmental challenges, particularly following hurricanes, inspired her to seek innovative solutions for sustainable energy in vulnerable regions. Kristi introduces listeners to Mermaid Energy's mission to tackle the growing problem of invasive sargassum seaweed in the Caribbean. By intercepting this abundant resource at sea, her company aims to transform it into bio-stimulants, renewable diesel, and other valuable products, while also addressing public health and ecological concerns. This episode is a testament to how individuals can leverage their backgrounds and experiences to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond. * (00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts * (00:28) - - Welcome Kristi Shaw from Mermaid Energy * (01:12) - - Kristi's Journey: From Farm to Science * (02:57) - - Transitioning to Renewable Energy Development * (04:41) - - Challenges and Opportunities in Energy Projects * (10:00) - - Insights from the Chicken Manure Company * (16:35) - - Introduction to Mermaid Energy * (18:53) - - Addressing the Sargassum Seaweed Crisis * (20:09) - - Innovative Solutions for Seaweed Management * (24:10) - - Current Status and Future Goals * (27:21) - - Importance of Community Collaboration * (29:27) - - Bringing Technical Jobs to the Caribbean * (30:29) - - One Word: Execute * (31:51) - - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Can Climate Education Transform Communities? Insights from Abby Jordan

In this enlightening episode of **Green Shoots & Big Shifts**, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Abby Jordan, the Climate Education Program Manager at the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Abby shares her inspiring journey from a volunteer in community climate initiatives to a leader in climate education, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience in fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues among youth. Through her work at NWF, Abby is not only educating students about climate resilience but also empowering them to take meaningful action in their communities. Abby discusses two pivotal programs she manages: the Climate and Resilience Education Task Force Youth Steering Committee, which engages high school students in climate education and civic engagement, and the Resilient Schools and Communities program, which provides a standardized curriculum for educators. Abby highlights the impactful Beach Grass Plantings project in New York City, where students participate in ecological restoration efforts, gaining firsthand experience in climate solutions. This episode not only sheds light on the significance of grassroots climate action but also emphasizes the role of education in nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. Resources * Explore the RISC Website [https://www.riscnyc.org/] for resources on how you and your community can get involved! [https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1] * Follow NWF on Instagram  [https://www.instagram.com/riscnyc1/](@riscnyc1 * Access the standardized version of the RiSC Curriculum for a national audience focused on four climate impacts: coastal flooding, inland flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat, here: https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1 [https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1] * New York Amsterdam News highlighted the RISC program in their featured climate solutions front page editorial: “NYC High Schools Work to Protect Brooklyn’s Shoreline.” [https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/] https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/ [https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/] * CBS News TV produced a piece about the RiSC beach grass plantings reaching millions of viewers, watch: "Students helping to restore sand dunes in Coney Island.” [https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/] https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/ [https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/] * To see NWF students and volunteers in action, watch and share our documentary: Where it Floods: Planting Hope in Coney Island  [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQ] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQ [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQ] * State of the Planet: Can Coney Island’s Dunes Protect Against Another Sandy? May 2026,https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2026/05/21/can-coney-islands-dunes-protect-against-another-sandy...

Is Sustainability the New Business Imperative in the age of AI? ft. Stacy Cline

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Stacy Cline, the Senior Director of Sustainability at GitLab, to discuss the intersection of sustainability and corporate responsibility within the tech industry. Stacy shares her inspiring journey from the nonprofit sector to her pivotal role in shaping GitLab's sustainability initiatives. With a focus on environmental, social, and governance regulations, Stacy elaborates on how GitLab is not only ensuring compliance but also helping its customers meet their own sustainability goals. Stacy highlights the crucial role of intentionality in integrating sustainability into business practices. She discusses GitLab's Green DevOps Committee, which focuses on sustainable software development and innovative practices that address customer needs for lower emissions. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of balancing AI innovation with sustainable practices, emphasizing that sustainability should be woven into the fabric of business objectives rather than treated as a separate initiative. This episode is packed with practical insights for organizations looking to embrace sustainability as a core component of their operations.  You can access Gitlab's library here: AI catalog: https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/ [https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/].  This link [https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/?search=green]will pull up the 'green' agents and flows.   * (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast * (01:20) - - Guest Introduction: Stacy Cline * (02:10) - - Stacy's Career Journey * (05:00) - - Overview of GitLab's Sustainability Goals * (07:45) - - Customer Expectations on Sustainability * (10:30) - - Connecting Sustainability to Business Goals * (13:20) - - Sustainability in a Software Company * (16:50) - - GitLab's Green DevOps Committee * (19:40) - - Balancing AI Innovation and Sustainability * (23:10) - - Responsible Use of AI at GitLab * (26:30) - - Vendor Collaboration on Sustainability * (29:15) - - Best Practices for Smaller Companies * (32:00) - - Importance of Cross-Functional Support * (34:20) - - GitLab's Open Source Community Engagement * (37:00) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts * (38:40) - - Closing Word: Intentionality in Actions

How Local Stewardship Drives Ocean Conservation: Insights from Zach Plopper

In this episode, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Zach Plopper, Senior Environmental Director at the Surfrider Foundation, who shares his inspiring journey of merging a passion for surfing with environmental activism. Growing up near the ocean in Solana Beach, California, Zach has dedicated his life to protecting the coastlines and ocean ecosystems that he cherishes. His experiences, from competitive surfing to his extensive work with various conservation organizations, highlight the profound connection between personal passion and professional purpose. Zach elaborates on the mission of the Surfrider Foundation, which aims to protect the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches through grassroots activism. He discusses the organization's initiatives focused on reducing plastic pollution, combating climate change, and ensuring clean water for beachgoers. Through local chapters and community engagement, Surfrider empowers individuals to advocate for their coastal environments, showcasing how local stewardship can lead to systemic changes. This episode is a call to action for all ocean lovers to engage in conservation efforts, emphasizing that every individual can make a difference in protecting our natural resources. * (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast * (00:40) - - Guest Introduction: Zach Plopper * (01:10) - - Zach's Background and Early Life * (05:00) - - Journey into Environmental Work * (10:15) - - Overview of Surfrider Foundation * (12:45) - - Surfrider's Mission and Goals * (15:30) - - Importance of Local Stewardship * (20:00) - - Notable Projects in Conservation * (25:00) - - Effective Conservation Strategies * (30:15) - - Community Engagement in Conservation * (35:00) - - Stakeholder Involvement and Challenges * (40:30) - - Keeping Teams Motivated * (45:00) - - Hopeful Future for Coastal Conservation * (50:00) - - Final Thoughts on Engagement * (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Goodbye