Mapping The Conversations

Hosted by Valrie Grant

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Oct 2025

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Welcome to Mapping The Conversation, the podcast hosted by geospatial scientist, author, and entrepreneur Valrie Grant. Join us as we explore the world of geospatial technology and how it empowers businesses to seize new opportunities. In each episode, we engage in insightful conversations with influential figures and changemakers in the geospatial industry. Discover how location intelligence shapes business progress and unlocks growth. If you're seeking valuable insights and innovative strategies to thrive in today's dynamic business landscape, this podcast is your guide to success.

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40 recent

October 1, 202524 min

Data for Decisions: Lessons from UN-GGIM’s Frontline with Fernand Balé

In this episode of Mapping the Conversations, host Dr. Valrie Grant is joined by Fernand Balé, Director of Côte d’Ivoire’s Center for Geospatial Information & Digital and former Co-Chair of the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM). Together, they unpack how global geospatial frameworks move from concept to impact — transforming decision-making, governance, and resilience on the ground.Fernand shares his journey in the geospatial sector and his leadership role at UN-GGIM, offering insights into the evolution of global geospatial governance and what it takes to strengthen national and regional geospatial ecosystems. The conversation explores the critical importance of geodesy — the invisible infrastructure underpinning everything from navigation and finance to disaster response.They also discuss how the United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (UN-IGIF) is beingtranslated into local action, the importance of centers of excellence and regional reference frames, and how South–South cooperation can accelerate capacity building and innovation. Fernand shares compelling examples, including how Côte d’Ivoire is using AI to map deforestation cost-effectively, illustrating the power of data-driven solutions for national development.Whether you’re a policymaker, geospatial professional, or just curious about how data shapes decisions, this episode offers invaluable lessons from the frontline of global geospatial leadership.Join us for this insightful conversation as we explore howglobal geospatial initiatives translate into national impact. Connect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInMapping the Conversations: Mapping TheConversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedInDon’t forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversationsfor more episodes with leading voices in geospatial innovation and resilience — and leave a review to let us know what you think!

September 12, 202523 min

Maximizing Geospatial Data Integrity with Dr. Justin Bennett

Dr. Justin Bennett — 26-year DoD geospatial veteran, repeat entrepreneur and DBA joins Mapping the Conversations to unpack what really drives successful geospatial programs. He explains how interoperability improves data integrity, introduces his Geo IQ maturity ideas, and explores how Geo AI is reshaping geospatial research and practice.They dive into:Justin’s journey: USAF → federal mapping roles → serial entrepreneurship → doctorate and new venture Why standards & interoperability should be your first investment to improve data integrityGeo IQ — a simple, actionable maturity lens for measuring organisational geospatial capabilityEntrepreneurship lessons from the field: “Do things people can’t do or don’t want to do.” The human side of mapping — curiosity, craft, and how diving became a mirror for Justin’s work Who should listen: practitioners building geospatialcapacity, data managers wrestling with messy datasets, geospatial entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about where Geo-AI meets real-world practice.Tune in and discover how better standards, a practical maturity lens, and smart AI augmentation can turn messy geospatial data into decisions that matter. Connect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInMapping the Conversations: Mapping The Conversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedIn Don't forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversationsfor more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!

June 18, 202536 min

Talking Digital Twins with Ron Chapple

In this episode of Mapping the Conversations, hostDr. Valrie Grant sits down with Ron Chapple, VP of Global Strategic Solutions at NV5, to explore the evolving world of digital twins, geospatial intelligence, and visual storytelling.Ron brings a rare blend of Emmy-winning visual storytellingand cutting-edge geospatial innovation. From capturing breathtaking aerial cinematography for National Geographic and the BBC to pioneering remote sensing innovations for Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism, Ron’s journey is one ofcuriosity, creativity, and cutting-edge technology.They dive into:Ron’s fascinating transition from photography to LiDAR and geospatial innovationWhat truly makes a digital twin (hint: it’s more than just a pretty 3D map!)The power of immersive visuals in environmental storytelling and stewardshipA behind-the-scenes look at a volcanic digital twin model on Hawaii’s Kilauea, combining LiDAR, live earthquake feeds, and Esri dashboardsOpportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in geospatial techWhy geospatial is the fabric of all business, and how we must build more inclusive, forward-looking talent pipelinesThe conversation wraps with Ron’s reflections on the creative and technical challenges of building models at scale and why digital twins must be treated as living assets rather thanone-off projects. He emphasizes the need to break down silos, foster cross-sector collaboration, and bring fresh talent—from data scientists to filmmakers—into the evolving geospatial ecosystem.Whether you're a tech enthusiast, policymaker, or storyteller at heart—this episode will reshape how you think about place, pixels, and the planet.Tune in and discover how Ron’s work brings scienceand art together to better understand and prepare for our rapidly changing world.Connect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInMapping the Conversations: Mapping TheConversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedInDon't forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversationsfor more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!

June 4, 202531 min

Geospatial Law, Ethics & the Edge of Innovation: A Conversation with Kevin Pomfret

In this eye-opening episode of Mapping the Conversations,host Dr. Valrie Grant sits down with Kevin Pomfret, a leading voice in geospatial law, policy, and ethics. Kevin, a partner at Williams Mullen and adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University, shares his fascinating journey from satellite imagery analyst to legal expert in the rapidly evolving geospatial field. Together, they explore the intersection of law, technology, and policy in an era where data is abundant and boundaries are constantly shifting.Key Discussion Points:The Balance of Privacy and Innovation: Kevin unpacks the tension between public good and private risk,especially as location data and mapping technologies become ever more embeddedin daily life.AI and the Next Legal Battleground: How AI is challenging traditional legal norms and reshaping the geospatial sector. They discuss how emerging laws and court decisions willhave long-term impacts on geospatial applications and data use.Data Sovereignty & Governance: A deep dive into the growing trend of countries requiring data to remain within their borders—raising complex issues for global geospatialinitiatives and cross-border collaborations.Licensing & Liability Myths: Why data licensing isn’t just paperwork—it’s a manifestation of an organization’s entire business strategy. Kevin dispels common misconceptionsand explains how to navigate licensing complexities.Ethics & Responsibility: A candid discussion on why legal compliance is foundational to ethical practice in geospatial work, and how ethical conversations need to evolve alongside the diversity of the field.The Future of Geospatial Law: hear insights on the upcoming legal hurdles for geospatial professionals, from data governance to international regulation of Earth observation and national security concerns.Kevin’s Book & Future Projects: he shares the inspiration behind his book, Geospatial Law, Policy, and Ethics—designed as a critical resource for students and geospatialpractitioners—and hints at future projects, including potentially creating a “Geospatial Academy” to provide more structured learning on these pressing topics.As Kevin notes, geospatial data was “big data before bigdata was cool.” In an era of digital twins, Earth observation, and AI, geospatial professionals must understand the complex legal landscape that governs their work. This conversation provides not just historical context buta crucial roadmap for navigating what’s next.Tune in for an in-depth conversation that will leave you better equipped to ask the right questions—and to understand the profound role of law, policy and ethics in shaping how we map and manage the world around us.Connect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInMapping the Conversations: Mapping The Conversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedIn Don't forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversationsfor more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!

May 21, 202535 min

Unlocking Interoperability: The Power of Open Geospatial Standards with Christy Monaco

In this episode of Mapping the Conversations, hostDr. Valrie Grant welcomes Christy Monaco, Chief Operating Officer of the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC). With over 30 years of experience spanning the U.S. intelligence and geospatial community, Christy shares her journey from federal service to leading global geospatial standards for interoperability.Together, they explore how open geospatial standards arehelping to tackle global challenges—from climate resilience to disaster response—and what’s next for OGC as it deepens engagement with underrepresented regions.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Christy’s inspiring career path from naval intelligence to COO of OGCWhy open geospatial standards matter—and how they’re developedThe power of collaboration in solving big challenges like climate change and smart citiesWhat’s planned for the upcoming OGC Member Meeting in Mérida, MexicoNew pathways for participation in the OGCKey Quote:“Let’s approach everything we do with an eye towardmaintaining trust in the information we produce. That’s how we safeguard the integrity of our field.”Upcoming Event:OGC 132nd Member Meeting & Innovation SummitMérida, Mexico | June 9–12, 2025Theme: From Sea to Space – Join global experts in shaping the future of geospatial innovation.Learn More:Open Geospatial Consortium: www.ogc.org Connect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInMapping the Conversations: Mapping The Conversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedIn Don't forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversationsfor more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!

May 7, 202528 min

Coordinates of Change - Exploring NGIM Adoption in Small Island Developing States with Dr. Valrie Grant

In this special crossover edition, host Dr. Valrie Grant steps into the guest seat as she's interviewed by her colleagues from DBA Chronicles. Fresh off her successful dissertation defense, Dr. Grant unpacks her research: "Factors Influencing National Geospatial Information Management Adoption in Small Island Developing States (SIDS)". This insightful conversation explores how leadership,national innovation systems, and external pressures influence NGIM adoption—and why these dynamics are critical to the future of climate resilience, disasterpreparedness, and sustainable development in SIDS.In this episode we explored:Why a personal quest for renewal sparked a transformative doctoral journey An insider's view into Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and why national geospatial information management is critical for climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and sustainable developmentThe surprises in her researchPractical lessons for governments, policymakers, and change-makersHow academic research can drive real-world impact — and why it mustYou'll also hear heartfelt reflections on balancing practitioner experience with academic rigor, the “aha” moments along the dissertation path, and what’s next for this newly minted doctor and geospatial strategist.Key Quotes:"Effective geospatial governance isn't a luxury for small islands — it's a lifeline.""Real-world change starts with asking the right questions and doing the hard work to find the answers.""Leadership at multiple levels — not just at the top — can make the difference between meaningful progress andstagnation."If you're passionate about data, climate action, innovation, or global equity and SIDS— this episode is a must. It’s notjust a conversation. It’s a call to map a better world.Connect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInMapping the Conversations: Mapping The Conversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedIn Don't forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversations for more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!

April 23, 202537 min

Data for Resilience: The SDG Data Alliance and SIDS with Dr. Greg Scott

In this episode of Mapping the Conversations, host Dr. Valrie Grant sits down with Dr. Greg Scott, Executive Director of the SDG Data Alliance, for a powerful conversation on thetransformative role of geospatial intelligence in sustainable development — especially for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).From his early days in aerial photography to shaping global geospatial policy at the UN, Dr. Scott brings decades of experience to the table. Now, through the SDG Data Alliance, he’s working to bridge the data divide and empower some of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations.In This Episode, You'll Learn:The origins and evolution of the SDG Data AllianceWhy the SIDS Global Data Hub could be game-changing for climate resilience and economic developmentReal-world insights from data workshops in the Caribbean and PacificHow storytelling with maps bridges the gap between data scientists and decision-makersWhy collaboration — from local leaders to big tech — is key to unlocking changeKey Quote:“We need to move up the data value chain — from raw data, to insight, to action, to impact.”Tune in:If you're passionate about data, climate action, innovation,or global equity — this episode is a must. It’s not just a conversation. It’s a call to map a better world.Connect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInMapping the Conversations: Mapping TheConversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedInDon't forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversationsfor more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!

April 10, 202535 min

Building the Future: Workforce Development in the Geospatial Industry with Aaron Addison

In this episode of Mapping the Conversations, host ValrieGrant sits down with Aaron Addison, Executive Director of the World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC), for a deep dive into the future of the geospatial workforce and the evolving needs of our rapidly growing industry.Aaron shares insights from his rich career journey—fromfield surveyor to academic, to his current role helping to shape global geospatial collaboration. Together, Valrie and Aaron explore critical topics like bridging the divide between industry and academia, building workforce pipelines, mentorship, and how WGIC is leading efforts to shape policies, partnerships, and professional pathways around the world.In this Episode, you'll learn:How WGIC helps geospatial companies to speak with one voiceWhy collaboration—not competition—is key to industryadvancementThe growing geospatial workforce gap and ideas about steps to fix itThe critical role of mentorship, flexible education models, and upskillingWhy meeting people "where they are" matters increating inclusive geospatial careersHow automation and AI are changing geospatial roles—and what skills will stand the test of time WGIC’s ongoing research into workforce development and future-readiness strategiesThis episode is perfect for Geospatial professionals & students, HR and workforce strategists in tech, policy advocates in digital transformation and anyone curious about the future of work in geospatial industry.Tune In and Explore:How we build a geospatial workforce for the world we want—resilient, inclusive, and ready for the challenges ahead.Connect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInMapping the Conversations: Mapping TheConversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedIn Don't forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversationsfor more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!

February 19, 202535 min

Scaling Global Land Rights through Geospatial Innovation: The Cadasta Story with Amy Coughenour Betancourt

Join host Valrie Grant for a powerful conversation with AmyCoughenour Betancourt, the CEO of Cadasta, an organization at the forefront of using geospatial technology to advance land and resource rights for marginalized communities worldwide.In this special episode for Podcasthon, we highlight the transformative power of mapping in securing land tenure rights and socioeconomic security for over 7 million people across 7,000 communities. Amy shares Cadasta’s 10-yearjourney, their impact, and the role of digital mapping and GIS innovation in helping local communities, women, and indigenous groups to gain formal land ownership.What You’ll Learn:The global land tenure crisis – over 1 billion people face insecurity in land ownership How geospatial technology is revolutionizing land rights documentation at scale The success story of women in Brazil, who gained legal ownership of their homes through efforts from Cadasta Why collaborative partnerships with governments, NGOs, and communities are criticalThe future of land monitoring, biodiversity tracking, andsustainable land useWhy This Matters:Land ownership isn’t just about property—it’s about human rights, economic stability, and generational prosperity. Geospatial data is a game-changer in addressing land tenure challenges in developing countries, ensuring women’sempowerment, and protecting vulnerable communities from displacement.Support Cadasta:As part of Podcasthon, we’re raising awareness for Cadasta’sincredible work. Want to help?Donate to Cadasta: cadasta.orgSupport Cadasta’s GoFundMe initiativeFollow & Share: Cadasta on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSkyJoin the Movement: Reshare this episode using #MappingTheConversations & #PodcasthonConnect with Us:Host : Valrie Grant: LinkedInGuest: Amy CoughenourBetancourt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-coughenour-betancourt/Mapping the Conversations: Mapping TheConversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) | LinkedInLet’s amplify the power of maps to shape a more just andsustainable worldDon't forget to subscribe to Mapping the Conversationsfor more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!

February 12, 202551 min

Geospatial Information Management in SIDS with John Kedar

In this episode ofMapping the Conversations, host Valrie Grant sits down with John Kedar, a globally recognized geospatial strategy advisor and director of John Peter Geospatial Initiatives Limited. With an impressive career spanning the British Army, Ordnance Survey, and advisory roles for governments and international organizations, John has played a pivotal role in shaping national geospatialstrategies across the world.Together, Valrie and John explore the factors influencing National Geospatial Information Management (NGIM)adoption in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the role of collaboration in geospatial initiatives, and the transformative impact of spatial intelligence.They also discuss the UN Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (UN-IGIF) and its importance in strengthening geospatial maturity in SIDS, as well as the critical role of geospatial data in climate resilience, economic growth, andsustainable development.Key Topics Covered:John Kedar’s career journey—from the British Army to global geospatial leadershipThe shift from map-making to data-driven decision-makingChallenges & opportunities for NGIM adoption in SIDSThe importance of collaboration between governments, private entities, and international organizationsHow SIDS can leverage Earth Observation, AI, and emerging technologies for sustainable developmentThe role of geospatial information in disaster resilience and economic planningThe need for open government data to drive innovation in SIDS If you're passionate about geospatial technology, location intelligence, and how maps shape the world, this is anepisode you won’t want to miss!Connect with Us:Valrie Grant:LinkedInMapping the Conversations:Mapping The Conversations | GIM International (gim-international.com) |LinkedInDon't forget to subscribe toMapping the Conversationsfor more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode!