In Episode 130 of the No Limitations podcast A Witch That Lived Under My Bed, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dr Adi Paterson, Principal and Founder of Siyeva Consulting. Adi was formerly Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Australia’s nuclear centre of excellence.
In a confronting discussion, Adi recounts his early years in South Africa, amidst the turbulent backdrop of the apartheid era, to becoming a leading figure in nuclear research and innovation. He explores the untapped potential of nuclear technology, while fearlessly addressing misconceptions and advocating for a re-evaluation of Australia's political stance on nuclear power. With a rich blend of scientific expertise and personal anecdotes, he calls for Australians to “wake up” to the grave reality of our energy future and its consequences for our future generations and forgotten Australians. He delves into the complex lifecycle considerations of various energy sources, offering a critical perspective on the true costs of renewable alternatives. Adi challenges us to reconsider our perceptions of nuclear energy, beckoning a dialogue that transcends fear and embraces the transformative potential it holds for a sustainable energy future.
Prior to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of ANSTO, Adi served as the General Manager of Business Development and Operations at the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor Company in South Africa. Adi was Group Executive of the Department of Science and Technology within the South African Government and Executive Vice-President at the South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. Adi has contributed to numerous advisory Boards and committees and is currently a Board Member of HB11 Energy and AdvanCell Isotopes.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 5 February 2024.