The Future of Energy

Author: University of Southern California Ershaghi Center for Energy Transition

Welcome to The Future of Energy, the podcast that explores the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a low-carbon future. Join hosts Jim, Milla, Rochan and Elizabeth as they chat with professors, industry experts, researchers, and students to unpack some of the most pressing issues involved in the energy transition and how they affect us. By featuring diverse perspectives, we hope to inspire you to make the best and most informed decisions for your communitiesbecause ultimately, the energy transition depends on each one of us.
Be a guest on this podcast

Language: en

Genres: Earth Sciences, Science

Contact email: Get it

Feed URL: Get it

iTunes ID: Get it

Get all podcast data

Listen Now...

S3E13 | Is Oil a Blessing or a Curse?
Sunday, 3 August, 2025

The resource curse, also known as the paradox of plenty or the poverty paradox, is the phenomenon of countries with an abundance of natural resources (such as fossil fuels and certain minerals) having less economic growth, less democracy, or worse development outcomes than countries with fewer natural resources. There are many theories and much academic debate about the reasons for and exceptions to the adverse outcomes. Most experts believe the resource curse is not universal or inevitable but affects certain types of countries or regions under certain conditions. In our final episode of season three of the Future of Energy, Kyle Koerner moderates a panel of three distinguished experts, Dr. Don Paul from ECET, USC, Tisha Schueller of Adamantane Energy and Trem Smith. Even our student podcasters get to ask the experts their questions. Thanks for all your support.