<p>In this episode of <em>Mapping the Conversations</em>, 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.</p><p>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.</p><p>They dive into:</p><ul><li>Ron’s fascinating transition from photography to LiDAR and geospatial innovation</li><li>What truly makes a digital twin (hint: it’s more than just a pretty 3D map!)</li><li>The power of immersive visuals in environmental storytelling and stewardship</li><li>A behind-the-scenes look at a volcanic digital twin model on Hawaii’s Kilauea, combining LiDAR, live earthquake feeds, and Esri dashboards</li><li>Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in geospatial tech</li><li>Why <strong>geospatial is the fabric of all business</strong>, and how we must build more inclusive, forward-looking talent pipelines</li></ul><p><br></p><p>The 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.</p><p>Whether you're a tech enthusiast, policymaker, or storyteller at heart—this episode will reshape how you think about <strong>place, pixels, and the planet</strong>.</p><p>Tune in and discover how Ron’s work brings scienceand art together to better understand and prepare for our rapidly changing world.</p><p><strong>Connect with Us:</strong></p><p><strong>Host : Valrie Grant:</strong> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/valriegrant/" target="_new">LinkedIn</a></p><p><strong>Mapping the Conversations:</strong> <a href="https://www.gim-international.com/mapping-the-conversations">Mapping TheConversations | GIM International (gim-international.com)</a> | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/mapping-the-conversations/" target="_new">LinkedIn</a></p><p>Don't forget to subscribe to <em>Mapping the Conversations</em>for more episodes featuring leading voices in geospatial science and innovation. Leave your feedback and tune in for our next episode! </p>
