Podcast · Tech & Science

The Biochar Show

by The Biochar Show · English · Tech & Science

Welcome to The Biochar Show, where carbon innovation meets sustainability! Join your host, John Webster, on a journey to uncover the extraordinary potential of biochar through interviews with researchers, producers, practitioners, and business leaders who are putting biochar to work. From enric

New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 44 min
Latest: 11 Jun 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

11 Jun 2026 · 57 min

Designing Our Carbon Future. From Soil to Advanced Materials w Bill Hilgendorf

Bill Hilgendorf joins The Biochar Show to discuss his journey from furniture design to biochar production, on-farm education, advanced carbon materials, and the future of biocarbon markets. We explore New York Carbon, White Feather Farm, biochar adoption, standards development, carbon markets, and emerging opportunities in construction materials and the built environment. ABOUT THE GUESTBill Hilgendorf, NYCarbon.CO Bio: Trained as an industrial designer, Bill became interested in discarded items and materials at a young age, always thinking about ways they could be fixed or modified to bring…

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Earlier episodes 21 most recent

E20 · 24 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
Will Your Biochar Qualify? The ASABE Biochar Standard Explained
In this episode of The Biochar Show, John Webster leads a conversation that delves into the foundational aspects of biochar standards, emphasizing the importance of consistency, transparency, and market confidence. The guests discuss the challenges faced in the biochar industry, particularly regarding testing methods and the need for standardized practices. They highlight the role of the new American National Standard for Biochar in enhancing trust and facilitating market access. The discussion also touches on the significance of carbon credits and the future of biochar as a scalable climate…
E19 · 30 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
Dr. Toufiq Reza: Could Biochar be the Key to Unlocking Martian Agriculture?
In this episode of The Biochar Show, John Webster interviews Dr. Toufiq Reza, an expert in hydrochar and hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). They discuss the potential of biochar and hydrochar in agriculture, water treatment, and even on Mars. Dr. Reza explains the differences between biochar and hydrochar, their applications, and the challenges of commercialization. The conversation also touches on nutrient retention, PFAS remediation, and the future of these technologies in addressing environmental issues both on Earth and in space. About the Host Since 2019, John Webster has run Go Biochar,…
E18 · 16 Dec 2025 · 59 min
Chris Wiberg: Inside the World of Biochar Testing
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host John Webster speaks with Chris Wiberg from Timber Products Inspection about the importance of biochar testing standards and the development of the American National Standard for biochar analysis. They discuss the challenges faced by the industry, the need for consistent testing methodologies, and the impact of these standards on the biochar market. Chris shares insights from his extensive experience in laboratory testing and the future directions for biochar research and development. Related Links Chris Wiberg on LinkedIn Biomass Energy Lab Timber…
E17 · 2 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 32 min
Kelpie Wilson: The Biochar Industry Past, Present, and Future
In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster interviews Kelpie Wilson, a pioneer in the biochar industry. They discuss Kelpie's journey from mechanical engineering to becoming a key figure in biochar initiatives. The conversation covers the discovery of terra preta, the challenges of scaling the biochar industry, practical applications of biochar, innovations in production methods, and the role of biochar in wildfire management. Kelpie emphasizes the importance of using biochar to manage organic waste and its potential benefits for soil health and carbon sequestration. In this…
E16 · 25 Nov 2025 · 1 hr 24 min
Zack Farr & Wyatt Catron: Reviving Florida's Citrus Industry with Biochar
In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster explores the intersection of biochar technology and the challenges faced by Florida's citrus industry due to Citrus Greening. Featuring Zack Farr (CEO, Biotech Applied Research) and Wyatt Catron (Project Development Manager, Carbon Markets at 3Degrees Group), the discussion highlights innovative solutions, economic implications, and the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders in agriculture. The role of carbon credits and the future prospects for sustainable farming practices are also examined, emphasizing the need for…
E15 · 28 Oct 2025 · 1 hr
Brian Borkowicz & Noah Pechatsko: Biochar Innovation and the Future of Tree Care
In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster engages with Brian Borkowitz and Noah Pechatsko from Davy Tree, discussing their passion for trees, the importance of urban resilience, and the role of biochar in sustainable tree care. They explore the challenges of biomass management, customer satisfaction, and the benefits of incorporating biochar into soil health and plant performance. The conversation also delves into the operational aspects of building a biochar facility, the significance of carbon credits, and the future of biochar in the market. The episode concludes with a focus…
E14 · 20 Aug 2025 · 49 min
Kristin Trippe: USDA Investment in Biochar for Soil Health
In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster speaks with Dr. Kristin Trippe from USDA ARS about her journey into soil science, the development of the Biochar Atlas, and the integration of biochar into sustainable agricultural practices. They discuss the importance of decision support tools for farmers, the role of biochar in enhancing soil health, and the ongoing research needs in the field. Dr. Trippe emphasizes the significance of STEM education in promoting soil health and shares insights on the future of biochar research and its applications in agriculture. ABOUT THE GUEST Dr.…
E13 · 5 Aug 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
Jim Doten: Unlocking the Potential of Municipal Biochar
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host John Webster interviews Jim Doten, the Carbon Sequestration Program Manager for the City of Minneapolis and a leading advocate for municipal biochar. They discuss the significance of biochar in urban environments, the challenges faced in its implementation, and the role of the Minnesota Biochar Initiative (MNBI) in promoting its use. Jim shares insights on the upcoming North American Biochar Conference, the importance of community engagement, and the potential for biochar to address environmental justice issues. The conversation also touches on…
E12 · 27 May 2025 · 20 min
Harper Moss & Gregory Ray: Farming Innovation with Biochar
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host Megan K. Lees engages with Harper Moss and Gregory Ray, co-founders of Carbon Zero, to discuss their innovative approach to biochar and its potential impact on sustainable farming and climate action. The conversation covers the origins of their mission, the science behind biochar, the challenges of educating farmers, and the technological advancements being made to scale biochar production. They also address market challenges, funding strategies, and the importance of partnerships in driving their vision forward. The episode concludes with actionable…
E11 · 20 May 2025 · 25 min
Annie Nichols: Biochar Beyond Carbon Capture
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host Meghan K. Lees interviews Annie Nichols, the General Manager of Biochar at Mangrove Systems. They discuss Nichols' journey into the biochar industry, the challenges of managing large-scale carbon sequestration, and the trends among biochar producers. The conversation also covers the verification process for carbon removal, the role of biochar in regenerative agriculture, and its potential in wildfire management. Nichols emphasizes the importance of integrating technology in carbon removal and advocates for more women in the biochar industry. The…
E10 · 13 May 2025 · 20 min
Suzanne Allaire: Trash is Cash
In this episode of The Biochar Show, Meghan K. Lees interviews Suzanne Allaire, CEO and founder of GECA Environnement, a leader in carbon management and pyrolysis-based solutions. Suzanne shares her journey from a childhood experience with pollution to becoming a pioneer in waste transformation. The conversation explores the importance of changing mindsets about waste, the power of pyrolysis technology, and the need for education in the industry. Suzanne emphasizes the potential for economic and social value in sustainable waste management and the shift from reduction to regeneration in…
E9 · 29 Apr 2025 · 53 min
Don Coyne & Melissa Rebbeck: Overcoming Barriers to Sustainable Innovation
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host Meghan K. Lees engages with Don Coyne (CEO, Australia New Zealand Biochar Industry Group) and Melissa Rebbeck (Board Chair, Australia New Zealand Biochar Industry Group), leaders in the biochar and sustainability sector. They discuss the evolution of biochar, its applications in agriculture, the challenges faced in the market, and the importance of policy and investment in scaling biochar production. The conversation highlights personal journeys into the biochar industry, advancements in technology, and the potential of biochar to significantly…
E8 · 8 Apr 2025 · 35 min
Myles Gray: Opportunities and Challenges for the Future of Biochar
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host Meghan K. Lees interviews Myles Gray, Executive Director of the United States Biochar Initiative (USBI). They discuss the transformative potential of biochar in environmental sustainability, the current state of the biochar industry, and the various applications and markets for biochar. Myles shares his journey into the biochar field, USBI’s priorities for market development, and the importance of policy changes to accelerate biochar adoption. The conversation also touches on overcoming misconceptions about biochar, the future of the industry, and…
E7 · 1 Apr 2025 · 35 min
Lucia Brusegan: From Global South to a Sustainable Future
This episode of the Biochar Show features Lucia Brusegan, Chair of the Board at the International Biochar Initiative and Managing Director at Starter, in conversation with host Meghan K. Lees. With over three decades of experience in sustainable development, Lucia has been instrumental in introducing biochar solutions to communities worldwide. The discussion explores her work in deploying biochar systems in Burundi, including the development of clean cooking stoves, and the transformative power of biochar for small-scale farmers. The episode also addresses the challenges of implementing…
E6 · 18 Mar 2025 · 22 min
Luisa Marín: The Human Side of Sustainability
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host Meghan K. Lees interviews Luisa Marin De Block, Executive Director of the International Biochar initiative and leader in biochar innovation. They discuss Luisa's journey into environmental work, the science and benefits of biochar, common misconceptions, and the importance of community engagement in sustainability efforts. Luisa shares inspiring success stories from farmers and emphasizes the need for collaboration and trust in implementing biochar solutions. The conversation also touches on the future of biochar as a local solution with global…
E5 · 4 Mar 2025 · 44 min
Patrick Sherren & Michael Zock: Forestry, Stormwater, and Innovation at Metzler Biochar
In this conversation, Meghan K. Lees engages with Pat Sherren and Mike Zock, innovators in the biochar industry, to explore their journeys, the science behind biochar, and its applications in stormwater management and environmental sustainability. They discuss the innovative products developed by Metzler Forest Products, including Char 21, and the collaborative efforts in biochar development. The conversation emphasizes the importance of innovation in addressing environmental challenges and the potential of biochar to make a significant impact across various industries. About the Guest…
E4 · 25 Feb 2025 · 25 min
Varsha Ramesh Walsh: Streamlining Carbon Compliance with Offstream
In the latest episode of The Biochar Show, host Meghan K. Lees sits down with Varsha Ramesh Walsh, the CEO and co-founder of Offstream, to discuss how her company is making carbon markets more accessible and efficient for project developers in biomass, biochar, and carbon capture. Offstream, based in Denver, Colorado, specializes in simplifying the complexities of carbon market compliance, allowing developers to focus on scaling their projects and accelerating cash flow. With a strong background in business development, strategy, and operations, Varsha understands the challenges facing…
E3 · 18 Feb 2025 · 42 min
Raymond Apy: Transforming Sewage and Restoring Soils
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host Megan K. Lees speaks with Raymond Apy, CEO of Northeastern Biochar Solutions, about how innovation is reshaping biosolid disposal. Based in Saratoga Springs, New York, Apy’s company is pioneering a proprietary thermal treatment technology that transforms waste into a sustainable, carbon-rich biochar. The discussion covers the environmental and economic benefits of biochar, including its role in soil restoration, carbon sequestration, and reducing odors, air emissions, and greenhouse gases. Apy, with over 30 years of experience in engineering,…
E2 · 11 Feb 2025 · 28 min
Steen Rasmussen: The Economics of Biochar Just Make Sense
In this episode of The Biochar Show, host Meghan K. Lees interviews Steen Rasmussen of Ikigai Carbon, who discusses the innovative work being done in the field of biochar and sustainability. The conversation covers the mission of Ikigai Carbon, Steen's journey into biochar solutions, the community impact of their projects, and the transformative power of biochar in addressing environmental and socioeconomic challenges. Steen also shares insights on the challenges of scaling biochar solutions, the importance of carbon credits, and the unique aspects of biochar as a sustainable resource. Learn…
E1 · 4 Feb 2025 · 24 min
Don Harfield: Charting a Path for a Sustainable Future
Don Harfield, CEO of Charterra, has dedicated his career to promoting sustainable solutions in various sectors, including waste management, oil and gas production, and the pulp and paper industry. With over 40 years of experience as a professional engineer, executive, and researcher, Harfield has made significant contributions to the field of biochar. As the technical lead for the Alberta Biochar Initiative, Harfield oversaw the development of two demonstration-scale portable biochar production units. These units showcased the potential of biochar production and its applications in various…
1 Feb 2025 · 1 min
Welcome to the Biochar Show
Welcome to The Biochar Show, where we explore the exciting world of biochar and its potential to revolutionize sustainability! Join your host, Meghan K. Lees, as she delves into the science, stories, and real-world applications of this amazing material. Discover how biochar can enrich soil health, capture carbon, and contribute to a healthier planet. Whether you're an eco-enthusiast, a farmer, or just curious about sustainable solutions, this show is for you. Subscribe now and be part of the biochar revolution!

About The Biochar Show

The Biochar Show is a English tech & science podcast from The Biochar Show. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: The Biochar Show
Language: English
Category: Tech & Science
New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 44 min
Latest episode: 11 Jun 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1793919794

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