In this episode of Coal Nation, host Emily Arthun is joined by Lorali Simon and Christian Palich to reflect on a historic moment at the White House and what it means for the future of American coal. Together, they explore the coal industry’s evolving role in U.S. energy policy, the impacts of recent executive actions, and the need for fair environmental regulation.

From Alaska’s unique coal landscape to the role coal plays in powering emerging technologies like AI, the conversation highlights both the challenges and opportunities ahead. The guests underscore the importance of community engagement, education, and regulatory reform in ensuring a viable and responsible future for coal in America.

Whether you're part of the industry, a policymaker, or simply energy-curious, this episode offers a nuanced perspective on coal's enduring role in powering progress.

• Policy Shifts: Recent executive orders have created new momentum for the coal industry.

• Energy Independence: Coal remains a cornerstone of America’s path to energy resilience.

• Environmental Fairness: Past regulations have disproportionately impacted coal; future policies must be balanced.

• Technological Innovation: Advances in coal technology are enabling cleaner, more efficient energy production.

• Community Connection: Coal miners are stewards of the land and pillars in their communities.

• Export Outlook: Alaska’s coal industry faces hurdles, but rising demand—especially in Asia—presents opportunity.

• Educating the Public: A broader understanding of coal’s role in modern society and technology (including AI) is needed.

• Economic Impact: Coal supports local economies and plays a critical role in addressing global energy poverty.

• Industry Legacy: Honoring the contributions of miners while innovating for the future is central to coal’s long-term viability.

• Policy Engagement: Active involvement with lawmakers and the public is essential for shaping coal’s future.

Coal Nation: Episode 2 — “Coal Is Too Valuable to Burn” with Randall Atkins

Welcome back to Coal Nation, the official podcast of the American Coal Council. In this powerful second episode, ACC CEO Emily Arthun sits down with Randall Atkins — a leading voice in the transformation of the coal industry and Chairman & CEO of Ramaco Resources. From rare earth elements to carbon innovation, this episode explores coal’s evolving role in America's economy, energy future, and technological landscape.

🧠 In This Episode

• The surprising global dynamics of coal usage — and why the U.S. is lagging

• How coal’s image is shifting: from "dirty fuel" to "carbon ore"

• Innovations in advanced carbon products and rare earth extraction

• Why AI, defense, and clean tech all depend on coal's future

• What policymakers and industry leaders must do now to stay competitive

• The two-for-one power of coal: energy + critical materials

• The importance of permitting reform and American mineral independence

• Why, in Randall’s words, “coal is too valuable to burn”

💡 Rapid-Fire with Randy
Get to know Randall Atkins as he shares his proudest career moment, advice for young professionals, and the one innovation he's most excited about.

🗣️ Quotable Moments

• “Coal is too valuable to burn.”

• “We don't even call it coal anymore — we call it carbon ore.”

• “Let’s leave no molecule behind.”

• “There’s a very benign side to coal — it’s really carbon.”

🎧 Listen + Subscribe
Don’t miss a moment of Coal Nation. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and share this episode with colleagues, policymakers, and anyone who cares about America’s energy future.

💬 Join the Conversation
We want to hear from you! What’s your take on the future of coal? Share your thoughts with us on LinkedIn, X (Twitter), or at americancoalcouncil.org.

• Emily Arthun, CEO, American Coal Council
• Kelli Sweet, Immediate Past President, ACC
• Bill McFadden, Current President, ACC
• Fran Taglia, President-Elect, ACC