237: Built to Stick: The Startup Making Gecko Tech Ready for Earth and Space

Trailblazer in biomimicry, Dr. Capella Kerst, joins us to share her inspiring journey from Stanford mechanical engineering PhD student to founder of geCKo Materials, a company revolutionizing industries with its nature-inspired Dry Adhesive technology. Learn how Dr. Kerst’s fascination with gecko feet led to a breakthrough that is not only impacting fields like space exploration and dentistry but is also redefining the future of industrial materials. Her story is a testament to innovation born from simplicity, starting from her mom’s garage and quickly capturing the intrigue and support of investors.

Dr. Capella Kerst is an entrepreneur and engineer leading sustainable innovation as the founder of geCKo Materials. Inspired by nature’s genius, she developed the groundbreaking geCKo Materials Dry Adhesive (gMDA) technology, which is revolutionizing industries from space exploration to manufacturing. Driven by a passion for biomimicry and social impact, she is committed to building a greener future and mentoring the next generation of changemakers in STEM.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

Dr. Capella Kerst’s journey from Stanford PhD student to founder of geCKo Materials
Breakthrough in Dry Adhesive technology inspired by gecko feet, revolutionizing industries like space exploration and dentistry
Overcoming startup challenges as a solo founder, securing investments, and collaborating with major industry players like TSMC, Samsung, and Intel
geCKo Materials’ commitment to ethical entrepreneurship as a Public Benefit Corporation focused on societal and environmental welfare
Pioneering space debris cleanup efforts in collaboration with NASA, including participation in REACH and Astrobee projects
geCKo Materials’ innovative approach to manufacturing and sustainability, aiming to be the next industrial Velcro

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