Episode 44
42. An Algae-nius Solution to Big Textile with Keel Lab’s Tessa Callaghan
Karl and Erum sit down with the Co-Founder and CEO of Keel Labs, Tessa Callaghan, diving deep into a world where personal memories intertwine with global challenges. From the nostalgic streets of Switzerland to the pressing concerns of the Pacific garbage patch, the trio embarks on a journey that…
Show notes
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum sit down with the Co-Founder and CEO of Keel Labs, Tessa Callaghan, diving deep into a world where personal memories intertwine with global challenges. From the nostalgic streets of Switzerland to the pressing concerns of the Pacific garbage patch, the trio embarks on a journey that touches on the intricacies of fashion fibers and the innovations shaping our future. As they celebrate the legacy of community biotech labs and explore the bustling bioeconomy showcases, Tessa's unique insights add a fresh layer to the conversation. Tune in for a blend of heartfelt stories, expert perspectives, and a glimpse into tomorrow's solutions.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
- 00:00:00 - Beginning Insights: Business Design in the Biotech World
- 00:05:48 - Journey Through Iran, Brazil, and Switzerland: Tessa's Global Perspectives
- 00:07:47 - Nostalgic Streets: Karl's Swiss Adventures
- 00:13:21 - Marrying Design & Biotech: Navigating the World of Bio Design
- 00:20:25 - Crafting a Brand: The Art of Naming for Startups
- 00:23:53 - Kelson's Breakthrough in the Textile Realm
- 00:26:15 - Revolutionizing Textiles: Kelson's Eco-Friendly Yarn Solutions
- 00:30:21 - Weighing the Pros & Cons: Using Alternative Wool Materials
- 00:34:16 - Embracing Open Doors: The Need for Collaboration in Biotech
- 00:38:51 - Pioneering Sustainable Dye Systems: A Collaborative Approach
- 00:42:24 - The Spirit of Innovation: Where Collaboration Meets Inspiration
- 00:46:47 - Reflecting on "Wind Up Girl": Globalization's Impact on Society & Tech
- 00:50:16 - Staying Nimble: Valuing Flexibility & Sustainability in Biotech Innovations
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Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media
About Grow Everything
Grow Everything reveals the world of biology as technology. Hosts Erum Azeez Khan and Karl Schmieder talk with the founders, scientists, and executives biologizing entire industries — biomaterials from waste, precision fermentation, cultivated food — and unpack how the bioeconomy is solving health and climate challenges. Winner of SynBioBeta's 2026 Impact Award.