In this episode, we wade into the salty, untamed waters of the blue economy with Michael Williamson, co-founder and CEO of Cascadia Seaweed. Born from a bold idea and built with deep roots in Indigenous collaboration, Cascadia isn’t just farming seaweed — it’s scaling a climate solution.

Michael shares the origin story of a venture that’s part carbon drawdown strategy, part food security revolution, and all-in on reimagining how we work with — not against — the ocean. We talk startup grit, the path to Series A, and what it really takes to grow a regenerative business that doesn’t compromise its mission at scale.

From ocean farming to future-proofing our food systems, this conversation is a deep dive into what it means to build for the long tide.

00:51 The Power of Seaweed
01:40 Founding Cascadia Seaweed
02:49 Navigating Challenges and Growth
10:15 Commitment to Sustainability and Community
18:13 Collaborating with Indigenous Communities
22:16 Exploring Business Models with First Nations
26:43 Maintaining Mission-First as the Company Scales
30:00 Fundraising Journey and Investor Alignment
39:10 Future Vision for Cascadia Seaweed
Learn more about Cascadia Seaweed at https://www.cascadiaseaweed.com/

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