Connecting the Circular Economy with David Watson - Exploring Circular Tech: Technology isn't magic

Technology isn’t magic. It does not fix a fragmented circular economy on its own. In this episode of HappyPorch Radio, Barry O’Kane speaks with David Watson, founder of Circular Connect. David explains how Circular Connect developed from a newsletter into a platform that helps circular businesses become more visible and easier to connect with. They discuss the practical challenges of scaling circularity, including fragmented markets, limited awareness, and the need for better connections between organisations. The conversation explores where technology helps, and where human relationships do most of the work. The episode highlights emerging opportunities in areas such as traceability, digital product passports, and circular M&A. ✨ In this episode: David explains how Circular Connect started and how it has evolved We explore why the circular economy is still fragmented David shares how networking can be made more consistent We discuss the role of human relationships alongside technology Barry and David explore the circular talent gap We look at current M&A activity in the sector David explains why traceability is becoming more important We discuss the role of policy and commercial drivers David shares how Circular Connect may develop further 👤 About our guest: David Watson is the founder of Circular Connect and Chief Client Officer at RL People and RL Equity. He has spent close to a decade working in the circular economy across recruitment, mergers and acquisitions, and media. Circular Connect was created to make it easier to find and understand what is happening in the circular economy. It brings together a newsletter, directory, and network to support better connections between organisations. David focuses on reducing friction in the industry and helping circular businesses grow through better visibility and collaboration. 🌍 About HappyPorch HappyPorch is a purpose-driven software engineering consultancy focused on the circular economy. Learn more: 💌

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Connecting the Circular Economy with David Watson - Exploring Circular Tech: Technology isn't magic is an episode from Happy Porch Radio by Barry O'Kane.

This episode is 30:57 long.

This episode was published on Apr 23, 2026.

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