Leaders on a Mission
Discussions with leaders with a clear mission of creating a healthier world in today’s most innovative startups across FoodTech, AgTech (Agritech), Synbio, Sustainability, Climate Tech, and Clean Tech. Learn more about precision fermentation, cellular agriculture, alternative proteins, crop protection, biologicals, protein expression systems, carbon capture, plant health, precision agriculture, bioinformatics, human nutrition and what it takes to successfully scale your business in this budding sector.
Leaders on a Mission
From Industry Newcomer to an $80M Fundraise
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How do you raise millions in one of the world’s toughest deep-tech sectors when you’re still learning the industry yourself?
In this episode, Susan Stone, CEO of Blue Current, shares how curiosity, relentless learning, and disciplined execution helped her lead a major fundraise within her first year in solid-state batteries. Susan explores the realities of scaling breakthrough energy technologies, navigating the “valley of torture” between innovation and commercialization, and building a culture where respectful challenge drives better decisions. From manufacturing strategy and investor alignment to AI-driven energy demand and the future of battery innovation, this conversation offers a masterclass in leading through complexity and uncertainty.
Tune in for a fresh look at scaling deep-tech ventures where speed matters—but shortcuts don’t.
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Hey Climate Tech enthusiasts!
Searching for new podcasts on sustainability?
Check out the Leaders on a Mission podcast, where I interview climate tech leaders who are shaking up the industry and bringing us the next big thing in sustainable solutions.
Join me for a deep dive into the future of green innovation exploring the highs, lows, and everything in between of pioneering new technologies.
Get an exclusive insight into how these leaders started up their journey, and how their cutting edge products will make a real impact.
Tune in on…
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadersonamissionNet0
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o41ubdkzChAzD9C53xH82
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leaders-on-a-mission/id1532211726
…to listen to the latest episodes!
Timestamps
00:00 – Entering Battery Tech
04:38 – Choosing The Winner
09:02 – Capital-Light Thinking
12:58 – Solid-State Reality Check
17:02 – Go Fast. No Shortcuts.
21:22 – Batteries & National Security
24:43 – AI's Energy Demand
28:21 – Hiring For Challenge
34:39 – Breaking Down Silos
Useful links:
Blue Current website: https://blue-current.com/
Blue Current LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-current-inc/
Susan Stone Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-stone-49bb5a/
Leaders on a Mission website: https://cs-partners.net/podcasts/
Simon Leich’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/executive-talent-headhunter-agtech-foodtech-agrifoodtech-agritech/