Sam Altman's Bet on Redefining Nuclear Energy with Oklo and Jacob DeWitte

In this episode, we hear from Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO of Oklo, a Santa Clara-based company developing advanced nuclear reactors that went public through Sam Altman's SPAC earlier this year. Jacob shares insights into how nuclear energy could power the planet for billions of years through fast reactor technology and fuel recycling. He discusses Oklo's innovative approach to nuclear reactor design, focusing on inherent safety features and modular systems that are particularly well-suited for powering AI data centers. With a background in nuclear engineering from MIT and experience at national laboratories, Jacob explains how Oklo is rethinking both the technology and business model of nuclear power, making it more accessible while maintaining safety and scalability.

Key Takeaways

• Learn how Oklo's innovative approach to nuclear reactor design prioritizes inherent safety features through natural physics phenomena

• Understand how fast reactor technology enables efficient fuel recycling and could power the planet for billions of years

• Discover how Oklo navigated the challenges of building for a decade-plus while maintaining investor confidence

• Hear about their strategy for working with regulators while pushing innovation boundaries

• Learn why Oklo chose to focus on smaller modular reactors and their unique advantages for data center applications

• Understand how Oklo's business model innovation in nuclear power generation differs from traditional approaches

• Find out how their recent SPAC merger positions them for scaling production

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In this episode, we cover:

• Introduction (00:44)

• Navigating the Challenges of Nuclear Reactor Development (08:23)

• Innovating the Nuclear Business Model (14:42)

• Safety Features of Modern Nuclear Reactors (19:40)

• Public Perception and Trust in Nuclear Energy (25:16)

• Understanding Fast Neutron Reactors (40:53)

• The Potential of Recycled Fuel in Energy Production (46:30)

• Meeting the Energy Demands of AI (51:48)

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes (01:02:38)

• Manufacturing Challenges in Nuclear Technology (01:09:27)

• Future Directions for Oklo (1:14:31)

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You can connect with Jacob through the following platforms:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-dewitte-90062132/

• Website: www.oklo.com

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You can connect with Adam through the following platforms:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-judelson/

• Substack: https://www.emergentproduct.com

• X: https://twitter.com/Ajuggles

• Website: www.firstprinciples.la

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For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast or becoming a guest, email adam@firstprinciples.la.

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