The Global Race for Critical Minerals

Ken sits down with Andrew Miller—CEO of Benchmark Mineral Intelligence—for a timely conversation on the future of critical minerals, battery supply chains, and the global race to power the energy transition.

Since co-founding Benchmark in 2014, Miller has helped shape how the world understands and navigates the rapidly evolving landscape of lithium, cobalt, nickel, and other essential minerals. In this episode, he breaks down how supply chains are built, why transparency matters, and what it will take for the U.S. to stay competitive in a market dominated by long-term global players.

Miller speaks candidly about the realities of mining, the promise of new battery chemistries, and why geopolitics—not just geology—is at the center of the conversation. With clarity and vision, he explains how Benchmark became a trusted source of market intelligence in an industry once considered niche—but now central to climate goals, manufacturing, and national security.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

From Obscure to Essential
Miller reflects on how critical minerals went from a backroom topic to front-page news—and why every nation is now racing to control their own supply.

Benchmarking the Future
Built around price transparency and data clarity, Benchmark’s mission is to bring light to one of the most opaque markets in the world.

The Long Game in U.S. Policy
Supply chains can’t be reshaped overnight. Miller explains why domestic production, permitting reform, and strategic alliances are all part of the solution.

Tech, AI, and the Next Battery
From direct lithium extraction to AI-powered site discovery, the conversation explores what innovation means for speed, sustainability, and scalability.

Why Recycling Isn’t Optional
With soaring demand and finite resources, battery recycling will be critical to easing pressure on supply—and lowering the environmental footprint.

Why This Conversation Matters:

Andrew Miller offers a rare, systems-level perspective on the materials powering the 21st century. Whether you’re in government, tech, or manufacturing, understanding where these minerals come from—and who controls them—will be essential to navigating what comes next.

“We set out with a very clear goal to provide price and data for critical mineral supply chains.”

Whether you’re new to the conversation or deep in the policy weeds, this episode will leave you more informed and better equipped for the decade ahead.