7 Insights from Johnny Pujol (SimpleLab) in under 7 Minutes!

New Segment! The 7 insights to take home and act upon from my podcast guest this week: Johnny Pujol.</p>For the ones that don't have a paper and a pen with them during the interview, that's my way to share you my notes.</p><br /></p>What can we learn from Johnny's path from selling vacuum cleaners on QVC to rolling out a network of water quality testing across North America and Europe, and in a close future maybe leading SimpleLab to IPO? Well, quite a lot, starting with this seven insight I wrote down:</p><br /></p><b>Customer-Driven Innovation</b>:</p><b>Flexibility in Business Strategy</b>:</p><b>Maintaining Customer Trust</b>:</p><b>Leveraging Digital Tools for Marketing and Efficiency</b>:</p><b>Scaling Through User-Friendly Services</b>:</p><b>Strategic Phased International Expansion</b>:</p><b>Building Strong Partnerships</b>:</p><br /></p>And there you have it, my 7 insights from Johnny Pujol in under 7 minutes, if you disagree with my selection, come tell me on LinkedIn or by mail (<a href="mailto:antoine@dww.show">antoine@dww.show</a>), and if you'd like to dive deeper, well listen to the full interview - you can also jump straight into the chapter you'd like, I'm paving the road, now it's on you to take action!</p><br /></p>Remember, that episode came to you free of charge, but I would believe not free of value. It takes me quite some time to put all of those together every week, so all I'm asking is for you to help me distribute them! So take this episode, share it with a friend, a colleague, your boss, or your team, and I'll be back with another one next week!</p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

00:06:44

S11E4 - How SimpleLab Turned an Arsenic Removal Failure into a Lab Logistics Success

What once was a struggling Arsenic Removal company pivoted to a soaring Lab Logistics powerhouse, just about to expand from its US base to Europe! All on the back of... one simple advice you can apply today. Shall we explore this further? (of course, yes!) </p>More #water insights? </p>Connect with me on Linkedin: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/</a> </p><br /></p>#️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ </p><br /></p>🔗 SimpleLab's Website: <a href="https://gosimplelab.com/">https://gosimplelab.com/</a> </p>🔗 TapScore's Website <a href="https://mytapscore.com/">https://mytapscore.com/</a> </p>🔗 Come say Hi to Johnny on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnypujol/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnypujol/</a> </p>🔗 My conversation with one of Johnny's Investor, John Robinson: <a href="https://dww.show/how-to-mitigate-4-shades-of-water-risk-through-impact-investing/">https://dww.show/how-to-mitigate-4-shades-of-water-risk-through-impact-investing/</a> </p>🔗 The Rethinking Water Conference in New York (and my coverage of the Water Crisis in America): <a href="https://dww.show/water-crisis-in-america/">https://dww.show/water-crisis-in-america/</a> </p>🔗 My conversation with Megan Glover from 120Water: <a href="https://dww.show/whats-hidden-in-your-tap-water-dont-worry-your-utility-doesnt-really-know-better/">https://dww.show/whats-hidden-in-your-tap-water-dont-worry-your-utility-doesnt-really-know-better/</a> </p><br /></p>🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ </p><br /></p>Podcast Channel: <a href="https://youtube.com/@dwwpodcast">https://youtube.com/@dwwpodcast</a> </p>Main Channel: <a href="https://youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW">https://youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW</a> </p>Smartlink: <a href="https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water">https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water</a> </p>Website: <a href="https://dww.show/podcast/">https://dww.show/podcast/</a> </p><br /></p>👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 </p><br /></p>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/</a> </p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/">https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/</a> </p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7">https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7</a> </p><br /></p>🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? </p><br /></p>⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ </p><br /></p>00:00 In This Week's Episode </p>01:19 How to Test your Water </p>03:57 Who was first, SimpleLab or TapScore? </p>08:32 SimpleLab's Elevator Pitch </p>10:39 Pivoting from Arsenic Removal to Lab Logistics </p>15:24 Who gave SimpleLab a Winning Hint? </p>16:30 SimpleLab's ugly 2017 & 2018 </p>18:14 What was SimpleLab's first product? </p>20:01 What did it change to Venture into B2B? </p>23:13 What is SimpleLab disrupting and how? </p>24:43 How much do Labs "love" SimpleLab? </p>26:29 SimpleLab's Business Model </p>28:07 SimpleLab vs 120Water </p>29:50 Who's competition to SimpleLab? </p>32:13 What's TapScore's Bestseller? </p>34:00 How should a Water Quality Test result look like? </p>36:49 Will TapScore roll out in Europe? </p>38:32 What's next for SimpleLab? </p>40:20 Could SimpleLab sell your Data? </p>44:02 What is SimpleLab's exit route? </p>46:15 Rapid Fire Questions </p>52:56 7 Insights from SimpleLab's CEO & Co-Founder </p>59:04 Conclusion </p><br /></p>#WaterTest #LabTest #SimpleLab #WaterTech </p><br /></p>About this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this podcast is for you.</p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

00:59:59

"How is Anyone making a Business doing this?! This is going to take forever!" - Johnny Pujol (SimpleLab)

Johnny Pujol's company, SimpleLab started with a focus on arsenic removal technology but pivoted to consumer-focused water quality testing. Their approach utilizes direct-to-consumer engagement, providing testing kits through their platform, <a href="http://mytapscore.com">mytapscore.com</a>, which allows customers to understand what's in their drinking water. This model turned out to be commercially successful and scalable compared to the original technology-focused venture.Innovations in water technology can drive faster economic growth than traditional industrial investments.</p><br /></p>The central theme of the conversation is about pivoting a business model from developing arsenic removal technology to providing direct consumer water testing services. This shift occurred when the founders realized that direct engagement with customers about water quality issues through testing was more scalable and sustainable as a business model than their initial focus.</p><br /></p><b>Unique Insights:</b></p><ul><li>The company capitalized on the specific needs for community engagement and education about water quality, which were not adequately addressed by existing solutions.</p></li><li>They utilized direct consumer feedback to pivot their business towards a more sustainable model focused on water testing rather than just technology deployment.</p></li><li>The realization that transparency and direct consumer interaction could be a profitable business model in the water quality industry.</p></li></ul><b>Key Ideas:</b></p><ol><li><b>Business Pivot</b>: The initial business model focused on a technology for arsenic removal, which was pivoted to consumer water testing due to scalability challenges and market needs.</p></li><li><b>Consumer Engagement</b>: The new business model thrives on high engagement levels with consumers, providing them with detailed information about their water quality, which has shown high demand and customer satisfaction.</p></li><li><b>Market Expansion</b>: The company is exploring further expansion into B2B sectors and international markets, adapting their successful consumer model to new demographics and regulatory environments.</p></li></ol><br /></p><b>Quotes:</b></p><ol><li>"We were going to these towns in central Valley, and the best part about it is that when we tell them what's in their drinking water, everyone is listening."</p></li><li>"You've made a company; you've filed the paperwork; you have some money in the bank. You've learned a lot."</p></li><li>"It's like, suddenly the quiet classroom has come alive."</p></li><li>"You should just sell water tests."</p></li><li>"And then it just started working right? Like the magical thing happened."</p></li></ol><br /></p><b>Counter-Intuitive Facts:</b></p><ol><li><b>Direct Consumer Testing as a Business Model</b>: Initially, the concept of selling water tests directly to consumers was not seen as a viable business model, but it proved to be highly successful due to unmet market needs.</p></li><li><b>Pivoting from Technology to Service</b>: Pivoting from a complex arsenic removal technology to a simpler consumer service was counterintuitive but resulted in better scalability and market penetration.</p></li><li><b>Community Engagement Over Pure Technology</b>: Focusing on community engagement and education about water quality rather than just the technological solution to contamination proved more effective in building a sustainable business.</p></li></ol><br /></p><b>Full Episode</b>: <a href="https://dww.show/how-simplelab-turned-an-arsenic-removal-failure-into-a-lab-logistics-success/">https://dww.show/how-simplelab-turned-an-arsenic-removal-failure-into-a-lab-logistics-success/</a></p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

00:01:00

7 Insights from Craig Beckman (Aqua Membranes) in under 7 Minutes!

New Segment! The 7 insights to take home and act upon from my podcast guest this week: Craig Beckman.</p>For the ones that don't have a paper and a pen with them during the interview, that's my way to share you my notes.</p><br /></p>Craig has been active in the water sector for over three decades. And even though he has the humility to highlight how "even veterans need to learn" I would trust him to have a bunch of insights to share!</p><br /></p>So here's my selection of the 7 things to take home from my conversation, and my hours of preparation and post-production, with the CEO of Aqua Membranes.</p><br /></p><b>Innovation Needs Grit and Laser Focus</b></p><b>Sustainability: The New Business Currency</b></p><b>Tech Innovations: Paving the Future of Water</b></p><b>Strategic Investment: Crafting the Perfect Blend</b></p><b>Market Adoption: Bold Moves Make the Difference</b></p><b>Water's Economic Impact: Undervalued but Vital</b></p><b>Vision for Change: More Than Just a Drop in the Ocean</b></p><br /></p>I could have taken more, but I think seven is a good chunk to go out and apply, so here you have it. </p>If you think I've missed one that's even more important than those seven, come tell me on LinkedIn or by mail (antoine@dww.show). </p><br /></p>Remember, that episode came to you free of charge, but I would believe not free of value. It takes me quite some time to put all of those together every week, so all I'm asking is for you to help me distribute them! So take this episode, share it with a friend, a colleague, your boss, or your team, and I'll be back with another one next week!</p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

00:06:02

S11E3 - How Aqua Membranes Prints Three Dimensional Benefits for Mesh Addicts

Do you want more Flux, better energy efficiency, or lower maintenance from your Reverse Osmosis membrane? Here's where to start! </p>More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/</a> </p><br /></p>#️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ </p><br /></p>Aqua Membranes' YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/<a href="https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCPR1YvUzEWpgqqr5eIvapjg">@AquaMembranes </a> </p>Aqua Membranes' website: <a href="https://aquamembranes.com/">https://aquamembranes.com/</a> </p>Craig's email: <a href="mailto:craig@aquamembranes.com">craig@aquamembranes.com</a> </p>My "Ultimate" membrane guide: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUpiL_x7680">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUpiL_x7680</a> </p>John Robinson discusses Impact Investing: <a href="https://dww.show/how-to-mitigate-4-shades-of-water-risk-through-impact-investing/">https://dww.show/how-to-mitigate-4-shades-of-water-risk-through-impact-investing/</a> </p>Chris Wyres presents Evove: <a href="https://dww.show/how-to-eradicate-dead-zones-cut-energy-needs-by-80-and-double-lithium-selectivity/">https://dww.show/how-to-eradicate-dead-zones-cut-energy-needs-by-80-and-double-lithium-selectivity/</a> </p>The Leading WaterTech Accelerator, Imagine H2O: <a href="https://dww.show/how-to-build-the-world-leading-water-innovation-accelerator-imagine-h2o/">https://dww.show/how-to-build-the-world-leading-water-innovation-accelerator-imagine-h2o/</a> </p>Tom Ferguson's take on Venture Capital in #WaterTech <a href="https://dww.show/the-secret-formula-for-profit-in-water-tech-venture-capital/">https://dww.show/the-secret-formula-for-profit-in-water-tech-venture-capital/</a> </p>Zwitterions as a new material for Membranes? <a href="https://dww.show/zwitterions-super-powers-could-solve-wastewater-membranes-number-one-problem/">https://dww.show/zwitterions-super-powers-could-solve-wastewater-membranes-number-one-problem/</a> </p><br /></p>🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ </p><br /></p>Podcast Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@dwwpodcast </p>Main Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW </p>Smartlink: <a href="https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water">https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water</a> </p>Website: <a href="https://dww.show/podcast/">https://dww.show/podcast/</a> </p><br /></p>👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 </p><br /></p>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/</a> </p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/">https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/</a> </p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7">https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7</a> </p><br /></p>🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? </p><br /></p>⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ </p><br /></p>00:00 In This Week's Episode </p>01:20 Why Membrane Companies attracted $300 Million of Growth Capital </p>04:40 What is a Membrane Spacer? </p>06:37 What's wrong with Membrane Spacers? </p>08:01 Why do Membrane Majors skip the Spacers? </p>10:47 Does the PERFECT Membrane Spacer exist? </p>13:06 How far can you customize a Membrane Spacer? </p>14:49 How did Craig Beckman join Aqua Membranes? </p>18:09 Aqua Membranes' first product (and what they learned from it) </p>20:46 Did Failure nudge them to Give Up? </p>22:00 Aqua Membranes' product compatibility </p>23:53 Spacer, 3D-Printing or Membrane Company? </p>25:15 How to fit within the Membrane Vertical </p>29:09 How to guarantee performances as a Start-Up </p>33:03 Establishing Go-To Market Routes </p>34:59 How to License your Technology </p>35:57 Ramping up production capacity </p>36:38 Raising Money </p>39:25 Working with majors (Pentair & Kurita) </p>42:17 The pitfalls of branding as a Start-Up </p>45:09 The perks of start-up accelerators (Imagine H2O, BREW) </p>48:02 Speeding up market adoption as a Water Tech </p>54:13 Path to Impact (and Exit) </p>55:51 Building a Membrane Giant </p>57:46 Rapid Fire Questions </p>01:05:10 7 Insights to Take Home </p>01:10:35 Conclusion </p><br /></p>#WaterEntrepreneurs #Membranes </p><br /></p>About this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this video is for you.</p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

01:11:30

"Toray, Dupont, LG Chem... they've tried for many years! We did it." - Craig Beckman (Aqua Membranes)

AquaMembranes is a company that develops novel water treatment technologies, specifically focusing on enhancing the efficiency of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. Their technology is designed to use less energy and improve the lifespan of membranes, thereby providing both environmental and economic benefits to communities and industries in need.</p><br /></p>The podcast features a deep dive into how water technology, particularly the innovations by AquaMembranes, plays a pivotal role in both safeguarding environmental sustainability and bolstering economic performance. Craig Beckman discusses the company’s approach to improving reverse osmosis membranes which significantly reduces energy consumption and extends membrane life—key factors in reducing operational costs and enhancing water availability. The conversation also covers the broader economic impacts of water management, investment trends in green technologies, and the challenges in scaling and adopting new technologies. Insights into the dynamics between financial goals and sustainability objectives offer a nuanced view of the water tech industry’s future.</p><br /></p>I hope this teaser makes you crave for more! </p>If you dive into this week's full release of the podcast, you'll learn how:</p><br /></p>🚀 AquaMembranes' technology uniquely prints spacers directly onto membranes, increasing efficiency and decreasing energy use.</p>📈 The discussion touches on the broader implications of water management on global economies, hinting at water's role as a more critical economic driver than oil.</p>💪 Insights into the challenges and opportunities in scaling water tech innovations, particularly through partnerships and investment in sustainability-focused ventures.</p><br /></p>We also address and discuss:</p><ul><li><b>Water as an Economic Enabler</b>: Water management not only supports sustainability goals but also boosts economic activity by enabling more efficient industrial and municipal water use.</p></li><li><b>Innovative Water Technologies</b>: AquaMembranes’ approach to improving RO membrane systems can dramatically reduce energy requirements and operational costs.</p></li><li><b>Investment and Market Adoption</b>: There's a significant discussion about the need for more robust investment in water technologies and the market challenges related to adopting new systems.</p></li><li><b>Sustainability and Business Growth</b>: The intersection of sustainability goals with business operations is a recurring theme, emphasizing that environmental strategies can also drive business success.</p></li></ul><br /></p><b>Some quotes:</b></p><ul><li>"Water enables economies more than oil does." - Craig Beckman</p></li><li>"Risk is worth it, fortune favors the brave." - Craig Beckman</p></li><li>"Our sole thesis is greenhouse gas reduction." - Investor comment on shifting focus to water technologies</p></li><li>"We're doubling down on existing markets." - Craig Beckman</p></li><li>"You have to start somewhere." - Craig Beckman on business strategy</p></li></ul><br /></p><b>Some more facts we discuss:</b></p><ul><li>Despite its critical importance, water is often undervalued economically compared to other resources like oil.</p></li><li>Water management technology can lead to significant reductions in energy usage, contrary to the assumption that environmental sustainability always comes at a higher cost.</p></li><li>Innovations in water technology can drive faster economic growth than traditional industrial investments.</p></li></ul><br /></p><b>Full Episode</b>: <a href="https://dww.show/how-aqua-membranes-prints-three-dimensional-benefits-for-mesh-addicts/">https://dww.show/how-aqua-membranes-prints-three-dimensional-benefits-for-mesh-addicts/</a></p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

00:01:00

7 Insights from Julie Bliss Mullen (Aclarity) in under 7 Minutes!

New Segment! The 7 insights to take home and act upon from my podcast guest this week: Julie Bliss Mullen.</p>For the ones that don't have a paper and a pen with them during the interview, that's my way to share you my notes.</p><br /></p>Narrowing the insights shared by Julie to just seven was a challenge, but hey, it's the rule I set, so this week I've got:</p><br /></p><ol><li><b>Focus on Market Needs and Testing Hypotheses</b></p></li><li><b>Innovate Within Niche Markets Before Expanding</b></p></li><li><b>Customer-Driven Development</b></p></li><li><b>Leverage Strategic Partnerships and Investments</b></p></li><li><b>Preparation for Regulatory Compliance</b></p></li><li><b>Strategic Hiring and Team Building</b></p></li><li><b>Bootstrapping and Careful Financial Management</b></p></li></ol><br /></p>As I said, I could have taken more, but I think seven is a good chunk to go out and apply, so here you have it. </p>If you think I've missed one that's even more important than those seven, come tell me on LinkedIn or by mail (antoine@dww.show). </p><br /></p>Remember, that episode came to you free of charge, but I would believe not free of value. It takes me quite some time to put all of those together every week, so all I'm asking is for you to help me distribute them! So take this episode, share it with a friend, a colleague, your boss, or your team, and I'll be back with another one next week!</p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

00:06:41

S11E2 - How Aclarity Bootstrapped its Journey from B2C to PFAS Destruction

How do you survive six years on "just" grants while hiring a team, running 15 pilots, pivoting from B2C, and succeeding in PFAS Destruction at scale where many failed? Aclarity did it! Wanna find out how and how spectacular acceleration was around the corner? Listen to this episode! </p>More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/</a> </p><br /></p>#️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Episode #️⃣ </p><br /></p>Aclarity's website <a href="https://www.aclaritywater.com/">https://www.aclaritywater.com/</a> </p>Julie Bliss Mullen's LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieblissmullen/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieblissmullen/</a></p>Julie's Email <a href="mailto:julie.mullen@aclaritywater.com">julie.mullen@aclaritywater.com</a></p>My conversation with Sivan Zamir (Xylem Innovation Labs) <a href="https://dww.show/passing-the-baton-how-to-bring-innovation-to-market-faster-more-reliably/">https://dww.show/passing-the-baton-how-to-bring-innovation-to-market-faster-more-reliably/</a></p>My conversation with Max Storto (Xylem Innovation Labs) <a href="https://dww.show/growing-10-wonder-kids-from-5-to-50-clients-with-0-equity-xylems-weirdest-move/">https://dww.show/growing-10-wonder-kids-from-5-to-50-clients-with-0-equity-xylems-weirdest-move/</a></p>Tom Ferguson on my mic (aka Julie's VC) <a href="https://dww.show/the-secret-formula-for-profit-in-water-tech-venture-capital/">https://dww.show/the-secret-formula-for-profit-in-water-tech-venture-capital/</a></p>Another take on PFAS Removal with SuperCritical Water Oxidation (374Water) <a href="https://dww.show/is-supercritical-water-oxidation-a-solution-for-pfas-energy-more/">https://dww.show/is-supercritical-water-oxidation-a-solution-for-pfas-energy-more/</a></p>Electrochemical removal of PFAS and more with Axine Water <a href="https://dww.show/the-best-industrial-wastewater-treatment-system-is-the-one-you-forget/">https://dww.show/the-best-industrial-wastewater-treatment-system-is-the-one-you-forget/</a></p>An early take on this mic' on Micropollutant removal with Oxyle <a href="https://dww.show/how-to-solve-a-global-challenge-in-an-easy-affordable-innovative-and-efficient-way/">https://dww.show/how-to-solve-a-global-challenge-in-an-easy-affordable-innovative-and-efficient-way/</a></p>Julie's independent Board Member, Wayne Byrne (on my mic', of course!) <a href="https://dww.show/four-successful-exits-and-counting-whats-next-disrupting-uv-disinfection/">https://dww.show/four-successful-exits-and-counting-whats-next-disrupting-uv-disinfection/</a></p>Full blog article: <a href="https://dww.show/how-aclarity-bootstrapped-its-journey-from-b2c-to-pfas-destruction/">https://dww.show/how-aclarity-bootstrapped-its-journey-from-b2c-to-pfas-destruction/</a></p><br /></p>🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ </p><br /></p>Podcast Channel: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dwwpodcast">https://www.youtube.com/@dwwpodcast</a> </p>Main Channel: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW">https://www.youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW</a> </p>Smartlink: <a href="https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water">https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water</a> </p>Website: <a href="https://dww.show/podcast/">https://dww.show/podcast/</a> </p><br /></p>👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 </p><br /></p>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/</a> </p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/">https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/</a> </p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7">https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7</a> </p><br /></p>🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? </p><br /></p>⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ </p><br /></p>00:00 In This Week's Episode </p>02:18 Why is Aclarity a Water Tech "Cool Kid"?</p>04:22 Are we doomed with PFAS?</p>05:35 If PFAS is in 98% of people's blood, is it really dangerous? </p>06:43 Aclarity's elevator pitch</p>08:06 is Aclarity competing with Ion Exchange and Activated Carbon?</p>09:55 is Aclarity 10-50x better than competition?</p>11:40 Aclarity's founder story</p>14:09 The hints that nudged Julie to create Aclarity</p>15:30 Turning academic research into a business</p>16:48 Delegating your "baby" as a water tech founder</p>18:53 Key Learnings from the first 3 Years in Business</p>19:45 Aclarity's first prototype</p>23:33 How to pick your niche</p>26:27 How to partner with Big Groups</p>27:46 How did big water companies find Aclarity?</p>29:29 Working with Xylem vs Working with De Nora</p>31:15 Bootstrapped by design?</p>32:57 How to survive 6 years with $2 Million</p>34:45 Handling a first VC as a Water Tech Start Up</p>38:28 How a Seed Investor accepts next funding rounds</p>41:15 Does company valuation matter for a water tech founder?</p>44:15 What's next in the PFAS Removal landscape?</p>46:30 How much does it cost to remove PFAS?</p>47:55 Aclarity's Business Model</p>48:57 Does Aclarity solve all kinds of PFAS?</p>53:42 What will the EPA regulation on PFAS change?</p>58:35 Could Aclarity be acquired? By whom?</p>01:01:38 Rapid Fire Questions</p>01:05:31 7 Insights to Act On (right now!)</p><br /></p>#WaterTech #WaterUnicorn #WaterEntrepreneurship </p><br /></p>About this Podcast: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this video is for you.</p>

01:12:24

"Is there something like this out there? This is Amazing!" - Julie Bliss Mullen (Aclarity)

Aclarity is pioneering in the field of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) destruction, developing proprietary systems - aka cool water tech - that not only treat but also destroy PFAS in liquid waste. The technology presents a significant advancement over traditional treatment methods, offering an economical and efficient solution to a pressing environmental issue.</p><br /></p>I hope this teaser makes you crave for more! </p>If you dive into this week's full release of the podcast, you'll learn how:</p><br /></p>🚀 Aclarity’s technology signifies a radical departure from conventional PFAS treatment methods, focusing on destruction rather than containment, which could set new industry standards.</p>📈 The market for PFAS management is dynamic, with significant growth potential, indicating room for multiple successful technologies and companies.</p>💪 Aclarity's journey underscores the importance of agility and focus in developing and deploying breakthrough environmental technologies, especially in fields dominated by larger, less nimble entities.</p><br /></p>We also address and discuss:</p><ul><li><b>PFAS Challenge</b>: PFAS compounds, due to their widespread use and persistence, pose a significant environmental and health risk, necessitating advanced solutions for their management and eradication.</p></li><li><b>Technological Innovation</b>: Aclarity's electrochemical technology represents a novel approach to PFAS destruction, with the potential to transform the industry's approach to dealing with these contaminants.</p></li><li><b>Market Dynamics</b>: The PFAS management market is evolving rapidly, driven by regulatory changes and increasing awareness of the dangers posed by these substances. Eclarity's success could help catalyze broader market growth and innovation.</p></li><li><b>Strategic Partnerships</b>: Collaborations with larger entities like Xylem or De Nora and participation in accelerator programs have helped Aclarity gain credibility, refine its technology, and access essential resources for growth.</p></li></ul><br /></p><b>Some quotes:</b></p><ul><li>"PFAS destruction is hard... but we figured it out." - Julie Bliss Mullen</p></li><li>"There's a place for all of us in the PFAS management market." - Julie Bliss Mullen</p></li><li>"Every time we've leveled up... it's because of a fundraiser or... enjoying the team." - Julie Bliss Mullen</p></li><li>"Full-scale economic PFAS destruction is here. Give us a chance." - Julie Bliss Mullen</p></li><li>"If any of us are super successful, we're all gonna be super successful." - Julie Bliss Mullen</p></li></ul><br /></p><b>Some more facts we discuss:</b></p><ul><li>Despite the strength of the carbon-fluorine bond in PFAS, making it seemingly indestructible, Aclarity's technology is capable of breaking it down efficiently.</p></li><li>Even as a startup, Aclarity can compete with and potentially surpass larger companies in the PFAS management sector due to its specialized focus and innovative approach.</p></li><li>The PFAS problem is often considered too massive and costly to tackle effectively, yet Aclarity's solution offers an economical and scalable approach to not just manage but destroy these contaminants.</p></li></ul><br /></p><b>Full Episode</b>: <a href="https://dww.show/how-aclarity-bootstrapped-its-journey-from-b2c-to-pfas-destruction/">https://dww.show/how-aclarity-bootstrapped-its-journey-from-b2c-to-pfas-destruction/</a></p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

00:00:57

S11E1 - How Gradiant Became the First and Only Water Tech Unicorn

How do you go in just a decade from an MIT lab to a billion-dollar valuation in Water Tech? Everybody thought it was impossible until... Gradiant did it! Wanna find out how and what's next? Listen to this episode! </p>More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/</a> </p><br /></p>#️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ </p><br /></p>Will Gradiant succeed with H+E where SUEZ, Stulz, and Rena failed? <a href="https://youtu.be/GMk99gRjRSc?si=zAWY2rfg3GXFSWt2E">https://youtu.be/GMk99gRjRSc?si=zAWY2rfg3GXFSWt2E</a> </p>Gradiant's website: <a href="https://www.gradiant.com/">https://www.gradiant.com/</a> </p>The Global Water Awards 2024: <a href="https://globalwaterawards.com/">https://globalwaterawards.com/</a> </p>Prakash Govindan's LinkedIn profile: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-govindan-87168310/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-govindan-87168310/</a> </p>The 3 VCs that made money in Water Tech (the greatest success being... Gradiant): <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqLn4j3w0P0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqLn4j3w0P0</a> </p>Full blog article: <a href="https://dww.show/how-gradiant-became-the-first-and-only-water-tech-unicorn/">https://dww.show/how-gradiant-became-the-first-and-only-water-tech-unicorn/</a> </p>Prakash Govindan on My Climate Journey: <a href="https://www.mcjcollective.com/my-climate-journey-podcast/gradiant">https://www.mcjcollective.com/my-climate-journey-podcast/gradiant</a> </p><br /></p>🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ </p><br /></p>Podcast Channel: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dwwpodcast">https://www.youtube.com/@dwwpodcast</a> </p>Main Channel: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW">https://www.youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW</a> </p>Smartlink: <a href="https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water">https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water</a> </p>Website: <a href="https://dww.show/podcast/">https://dww.show/podcast/</a> </p><br /></p>👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 </p><br /></p>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/</a> </p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/">https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/</a> </p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7">https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7</a> </p>🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? </p><br /></p>⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ </p><br /></p>00:00 In This Week's Episode </p>02:29 Will Gradiant be named Water Company of the Year? </p>04:20 Gradiant's "Special Sauce" by Prakash Govindan </p>05:46 How big is Gradiant today? </p>07:06 Where does Gradiant's journey start? </p>14:33 How did Gradiant strive where Incumbents gave up? </p>16:38 Why did Gradiant focus on the industrial market? </p>18:35 What is Turing, Gradiant's new AI spin out? </p>20:25 When did Gradiant start expanding its water tech portfolio? </p>23:02 How does Gradiant open a new region? </p>26:10 The secret to Gradiant's "Proprietary Deals" </p>30:50 How does Gradiant engineer its "unfair advantage" </p>31:23 Gradiant's unbelievable employee participation scheme </p>33:41 What's next after their record-breaking Series D? </p>36:53 Will Gradiant ever enter the municipal market? </p>38:04 Are Gradiant's founders ready to pass the baton? </p>39:53 Gradiant's new verticals: PFAS & DLE </p>42:20 Gradiant's two aces up their PFAS Removal sleeve </p>45:33 Gradiant's M&A tricks </p>48:18 Succeeding with H+E Mission Impossible? </p>50:07 Gradiant's plans for Europe </p>50:46 Gradiant's next M&A moves </p>51:50 What makes Gradiant the 2024 Water Company of the Year? </p>54:38 Rapid Fire Questions </p>57:53 7 Insights from the First Ever Water Tech Unicorn </p><br /></p>#WaterTech #WaterUnicorn #WaterEntrepreneurship </p><br /></p>About this Podcast: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this video is for you.</p><br />Hosted by Ausha. See <a href="https://ausha.co/privacy-policy">ausha.co/privacy-policy</a> for more information.</p>

01:02:20