Waste World

Waste360

Waste World is a podcast hosted by Gage Edwards, featuring in-depth discussions on the world of waste from experts, professionals, influencers, and community members involved in the waste and recycling industry.

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22 episodes
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Avg 33 min
English

Episodes 22

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Tuesday · 21 min
Waste World – Episode 75: PLASTICS CEO Matt Seaholm on the State of the Industry
On this episode of the Waste World podcast, Gage Edwards travels to Houston, TX, to chat with Matt Seaholm, CEO of the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), about the conversations taking place at the National Plastics Conference and the importance of bringing the industry together. Seaholm discusses what he's hearing from attendees, the policy and economic issues facing plastics manufacturers, opportunities for greater collaboration across the plastics value chain, and what gives him optimism about the industry's future. During the conversation, Seaholm discusses what he has been hearing from industry leaders and attendees at the National Plastics Conference, the challenges facing plastics manufacturers, the evolving policy environment, and the importance of collaboration across the plastics value chain. He also shares his perspective on the role PLASTICS plays in bringing the industry together and what gives him optimism about the future of U.S. plastics manufacturing. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
September 15 · 49 min
Waste World – Episode 74: Turning Sustainability Goals into Real-World Solutions with Christy Hurlburt
In this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards chats with Christy Hurlburt, Senior Director at Viably, about the challenges and opportunities facing the waste and sustainability industries. With experience spanning climate technology, the circular economy, food waste diversion, and resource recovery, Hurlburt discussed what it takes to move sustainability initiatives beyond ambitious goals and into practical, scalable solutions. Hurlburt explores how businesses and communities can connect environmental priorities with the realities of day-to-day operations, from food waste and resource recovery to policy implementation and emerging technologies. Hurlburt also shared her perspective on the role of innovation, industry collaboration, and strategic planning in building systems that deliver both environmental and economic value. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
September 8 · 19 min
Waste World - Episode 73: Rethinking Recycling Through Better Collection Systems
On this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards speaks with David Lawes, CEO of Interchange 360, about the role of product stewardship and collection system design in improving recycling and recovery. Lawes explained why the way materials are collected can have a major impact on participation, contamination, and recovery rates, particularly for specialized products such as lubricants and petroleum-based automotive products that don't belong in traditional curbside recycling. Lawes also discussed why dedicated collection systems can provide better outcomes for certain material streams and how existing commercial infrastructure can help improve participation while controlling costs. He also explored the importance of convenience in influencing recycling behavior, the roles producers and governments can play in developing effective stewardship programs, and why improving collection systems will be critical to building a more effective circular economy across North America. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
September 1 · 28 min
Waste World: Waste360 40 Under 40 Spotlight – Emily Darchuk
On this episode of the Waste World podcast, Gage Edwards talks with Emily Darchuk, founder and CEO of Wheyward Spirit and a 2026 Waste360 40 Under 40 award winner. Darchuk discusses her entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind building a business around upcycled whey, and the challenges of bringing an unconventional circular economy concept to the consumer market. Through Wheyward Spirit, Darchuk is demonstrating how an overlooked dairy byproduct can be transformed into a valuable new product. She and Edwards also explore the growing opportunities in food waste upcycling, the business case for circular economy innovation, and what she sees ahead for entrepreneurs looking to rethink the materials traditionally viewed as waste. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
August 25 · 25 min
Waste World – Episode 72: Understanding Household Food Waste with Brenna Ellison
On this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards chats with Dr. Brenna Ellison, director of the Center for Food Conservation and Waste Reduction, about what research can tell us about why food waste happens at home and how families can make meaningful changes. Ellison discussed some of the behaviors and decisions that contribute to wasted food, from shopping and meal planning to food storage and managing leftovers, while also sharing practical strategies consumers can use to conserve more of the food they buy. The podcast also explores the Center's Food Conservation Challenge, which invites consumers to share their own ideas and hacks for reducing food waste, as well as the upcoming Food Waste Prevention Week. Ellison explained how consumer research, education and participation can help shape more effective food waste solutions and offered insight into the actions families can take to waste less while getting more value from the food already in their kitchens. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
August 19 · 47 min
Waste World: Waste360 40 Under 40 Spotlight – Hassan Murad
On this episode of the Waste World podcast, Waste360's Gage Edwards talks with Hassan Murad, CEO and Co-Founder of Intuitive AI, a 2026 Waste360 Top 40 Under 40 honoree, and recipient of the Waste360 Innovator Award. Murad discusses his journey into the waste and recycling industry, the development of Oscar Sort, Intuitive AI's AI-powered recycling assistant, and how technology can improve disposal decisions, reduce contamination, and make recycling more intuitive. Murad's innovations use computer vision and real-time guidance to help people determine where their waste belongs. With Oscar Sort now deployed across universities, airports, stadiums, tourist attractions, and commercial spaces, Murad discusses what the technology has revealed about the way people interact with recycling systems and where AI could create new opportunities for the waste and recycling industry. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
August 11 · 22 min
Waste World – Episode 71: The Strategy Behind Waste Industry Acquisitions
Acquisitions have become a powerful growth tool across the waste industry, but a deal is about far more than adding another company to a portfolio. Behind every transaction are questions about strategy, integration, employees, customers, and what the combined organization can accomplish that the two companies could not do separately. On this episode of the Waste World podcast, HP Nanda, CEO of Arcwood Environmental, chats with Gage Edwards on the business of acquisitions. With Arcwood having completed six acquisitions in less than two years, Nanda shares his perspective on what drives those decisions, how companies can create long-term value after a deal closes, and what continued M&A activity could mean for the future of the waste and environmental services industry. Read about Arcwood’s latest acquisition announced last week, acquiring Environmental Management Services, Inc. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
August 4 · 40 min
Waste World: Waste360 40 Under 40 Spotlight - Cameron Douglas
In this episode of the Waste World podcast, Gage Edwards chats with Cameron Douglas, Lead Product Manager at AMP and a 2026 Waste360 40 Under 40 award winner. Douglas discusses his career journey, AMP's role in advancing large-scale recycling infrastructure projects, the evolving relationship between technology and recycling operations, and why collaboration between technology providers, municipalities, and facility operators will be essential to the future of the industry. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
July 28 · 26 min
Waste World: Waste360 40 Under 40 Spotlight - Carolina Lobel
Our latest Waste World podcast spotlights Carolina Lobel, director of reuse at Closed Loop Partners' Center for the Circular Economy and one of our 2026 Waste360 40 Under 40 honorees. Carolina shares why she believes the circular economy is reaching an inflection point. We talk about her journey from consumer goods to helping launch Loop at TerraCycle, and how she's leading reuse initiatives today. Along the way, we explore consumer behavior, innovation, collaboration, and why playing the long game has been one of the biggest lessons of her career. Listen now to hear why her optimism and bias toward action are helping move the industry forward. And what her years of competitive tennis have taught her about leadership, resilience, and sustainability. Enjoy! Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
July 14 · 29 min
Waste World - Episode 70: Victoria Taylor on Rethinking Odor Control in the Waste Industry
In this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards chats with Victoria Taylor, CEO of Probe Industries, about why odor management is becoming an increasingly important priority for waste and recycling operations. Taylor discussed how persistent odors can affect more than just neighboring communities, explaining that air quality also plays a role in employee well-being, operational performance, and regulatory compliance as facilities face growing expectations from both regulators and the public. Taylor also explores the science behind odor neutralization and how new technologies are helping facilities improve air quality while strengthening community relationships. She also shared insights into Probe Industries' latest innovations, including the use of neuroscience-informed fragrance design to create healthier working environments. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
July 1 · 58 min
Waste World - Episode 69: Kevin Kelly on the Challenges of California's SB 54
In this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards chats with Kevin Kelly, CEO of Emerald Packaging, about the rollout of California's SB 54 and the challenges businesses are encountering as the state's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program moves from legislation to implementation. Kelly discussed the law's intent to reduce packaging waste while shifting responsibility to producers, but explained how complex reporting requirements, evolving regulations, and communication challenges are creating confusion for businesses trying to comply. He also shared his perspective on how SB 54 is affecting small businesses and agricultural producers, many of whom lack the resources to manage increasingly detailed compliance and reporting obligations. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
June 23 · 27 min
Waste World – Episode 68: Todd Ellis on Building a Better Battery Recycling System
In this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards sits down with Todd Ellis, Vice President of Services and Solutions at The Battery Network, to discuss one of the fastest-growing challenges facing the waste and recycling industry: battery collection and recycling. Ellis explains why consumers often struggle to understand where batteries should be disposed of and how that confusion contributes to contamination, safety concerns, and fires throughout the waste stream. During the episode, Ellis highlights what successful battery collection programs look like, and the role municipalities, retailers and industry partners can play in creating safer and more accessible disposal options. He also discussed the growing impact of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs and how they could help improve battery collection infrastructure, increase consumer awareness and reduce risks for waste and recycling operators. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
June 16 · 19 min
Waste World - Episode 67: Waste Leadership Summit: Technology, Safety, and What's Next
In this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards recaps his experience attending the Waste Leadership Summit and highlights some of the biggest conversations shaping the waste and recycling industry. From interviews, panel discussions, and other events at the show, he explores recurring themes that surfaced throughout the summit, including artificial intelligence, safety culture, PFAS management, and the growing challenge of lithium-ion battery fires. During the episode, Gage shares key takeaways from conversations with industry leaders such as AMCS CEO Eric Walsh and Reworld's Paul Ligon, along with insights from several sessions focused on operational excellence, emerging technologies, and environmental challenges. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
June 9 · 44 min
Waste World - Episode 66: How Waste Fleets Are Turning Data Into Action
In this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards sits down with Dave Riordan, chief customer officer at Lytx, and Ryan Brandos, senior director of strategic accounts, to discuss how AI, video analytics and connected technologies are reshaping fleet operations in the waste industry. Riordan and Brandos discuss emerging uses for AI-powered video systems, including service verification, contamination monitoring, pedestrian detection and 360-degree visibility around collection vehicles. They also examine the growing industry trend toward consolidating multiple technologies into unified platforms that simplify operations, reduce in-cab complexity, and provide a more complete picture of fleet performance. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
June 2 · 35 min
Waste World - Episode 65: J.T. Marburger on Tracking Recycling Beyond the Bin
In this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards chats with J.T. Marburger, CEO of Circular Solutions, about the importance of recycling verification and how better data can help improve transparency across the industry. The podcast centers on the company's deployment of its Circular OS™ platform at the Indianapolis 500, where Circular Solutions tracked beverage containers from collection through downstream processing to verify what was actually recycled. Marburger explains that while recycling performance is often estimated or self-reported, his company is focused on providing auditable data that gives venues, brands and event organizers a clearer picture of material recovery and diversion outcomes. Marburger also highlights the challenges of tracking materials at large-scale events and the industry's continued reliance on manual processes and fragmented reporting systems. He discusses how technology can help bridge those gaps by validating material flows, documenting recycling outcomes, and increasing confidence in sustainability claims. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
May 20 · 33 min
Waste World - Episode 64: Celebrating 10 Years of Waste360's 40 Under 40 Award
On this episode of the Waste World podcast, Gage Edwards is joined by Liz Bothwell, Head of Content at Waste360 and founder of the 40 Under 40 program, for a conversation reflecting on a decade of recognizing the waste and recycling industry’s rising stars. Together, they discuss how the awards program has evolved over the years, the changing face of leadership across the industry, and the impact the recognition has had on past winners and the industry as a whole. From innovation and technology to workforce development and culture-building, the duo explores what today’s emerging leaders reveal about the future of the industry and why celebrating young professionals remains more important than ever. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
April 28 · 1 hr 4 min
Waste World - Episode 63: Cleaner Streets, Smarter Routes: How AI is Shaping Waste Collection
This episode of the Waste World Podcast features a session from WasteExpo 2025, moderated by Gage Edwards. The session “Cleaner Streets, Smarter Routes: How AI is Shaping Waste Collection” explored how municipalities, fleet operators, and technology providers are applying AI to route optimization, maintenance, contamination detection, and curbside collection. Panelists included Craig Vanderhyde of Entangles, Kelly Schenkel of Battle Motors, sustainability analyst Charlotte Silverman, and Brian Bros of McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing. During the discussion, panelists highlighted how AI is moving beyond theory and into practical applications that directly impact waste collection. Topics included predictive maintenance to reduce unplanned downtime, computer vision systems that improve safety and automate collection tasks, and route optimization tools that adapt in real time based on traffic, fleet availability, and driver feedback. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
April 22 · 20 min
Waste World – Episode 62: ReMA 2026: The Conversations Driving the Recycling Industry Forward
On this week’s episode of the Waste World podcast, Gage Edwards breaks down key takeaways from the 2026 ReMA conference. This year’s discussions highlighted how industry is navigating increasing complexity, from operational safety risks to evolving regulatory frameworks and the growing role of advanced technologies. But one question remained: how can the industry scale effectively while managing new and emerging challenges? Among the most pressing topics were the rise in lithium-ion battery incidents, ongoing uncertainty surrounding policy and extended producer responsibility, and the practical implementation of artificial intelligence in recycling operations. Together, these themes highlight an industry balancing innovation with risk, and long-term investment with short-term unpredictability. The following recap explores the key takeaways from ReMA and what they signal for recyclers, operators, and stakeholders moving forward. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
April 14 · 43 min
Waste World – Episode 61: Alexis Wells Carpenter on Tackling PFAS and the Dual Challenge of Waste and Energy
In this episode of the Waste World Podcast, Gage Edwards spoke with Alexis Wells Carpenter, Chief Innovation Officer at AxNano, about how PFAS are impacting the industry and what it will take to address them. Carpenter highlights how AxNano is focused on moving beyond traditional containment methods by developing technologies that can fully destroy PFAS, particularly through on-site, point-source treatment. In this episode, Carpenter also discusses the broader “dual challenge” facing the industry: meeting growing energy and infrastructure demands while minimizing environmental impact, and how PFAS sits at the center of that issue. highlights how AxNano is focused on moving beyond traditional containment methods by developing technologies that can fully destroy PFAS, particularly through on-site, point-source treatment. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.
April 7 · 38 min
Waste World - Episode 60: Relationships Win & What Fifth Third’s Comerica Deal Means for the Industry
Bank mergers are usually covered in terms of size, speed and regulatory approval. Yet sometimes the most important part is what they mean for the industries those banks serve. That’s what makes this conversation with Joe Ursuy, Executive Vice President, National Businesses for Energy, Renewables, and Waste, so valuable. Following Fifth Third’s acquisition of Comerica, Ursuy finds himself leading an expanded platform at a larger institution. “It’s been a fantastic last few months,” Ursuy said. “There’s been a lot of team get-togethers and relationship building.” And the word “relationships” came up again and again in our discussion. For Ursuy, the deal gave his team the ability to grow alongside some clients who have gotten bigger and more complex. “The combination allows us to do some different things, particularly on the environmental and the waste sides,” he said, pointing to larger deals and expanded capabilities. Ursuy is quick to point out that more capabilities don’t change the fundamentals. “Banking and lending—it’s not a complicated activity,” he said. “There are thousands of banks in this country.” So what separates one from another? “Do you add value, and do you have relationships?” Ursuy said. “And are you able to work with the best people in a certain industry?” That mindset is shaping how he approaches integration by building trust across teams and with clients. “It starts at the top,” he said. “I have to talk to them about my values… the standard that I want our teams to be held to.” Those standards are grounded in growth. Ursuy described both legacy businesses as strong performers and made it clear the goal now is simple: “We want to grow… and we have the scale to grow faster.” For waste and environmental companies, that could mean more access to capital, more sophisticated financial tools and the ability to pursue larger, more complex projects. But Ursuy’s message is that none of that replaces the basics. “If you can help solve their problems… beyond just lending money,” he said, “they’re going to be a loyal [partner] forever.” In an industry built on long-term relationships, that may be the most important takeaway from this deal. Be sure to follow and subscribe to the Waste World podcast on Spotify and other podcast services. Also, watch the video version of the Waste World podcast on WasteExpo’s YouTube page.

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