About Rare Earth Exchanges
Founded in 2024, Rare Earth Exchanges was born out of a critical gap in understanding the essential role rare earth elements and critical elements play in the products we use every day. With global reliance on these resources growing and geopolitical tensions causing unpredictable supply issues, we strive to inform and empower through real-time updates and in-depth articles, connecting the dots between economies and industries all reliant on the same precious resources.
Our Mission
Rare Earth Exchanges aims to shine a light on challenges in this sector, keeping businesses and individuals informed about how these international dynamics affect industries.
Our Team
Daniel O’Connor
Chief Executive Officer
Daniel O’Connor brings 25 years of business development, sales, and marketing experience to Rare Earth Exchanges. Earning a joint MA & Juris Doctor from the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of California, Hastings College of the Law, Daniel has founded, developed, and supported the growth of a number of software and technology-related services ventures involving life sciences, healthcare, government, and other regulated industries. He was inspired to launch Rare Earth Exchanges in part due to his lifelong passion for geology and mineralogy, and patriotism, to ensure America and free market economies develop their own rare earth and critical mineral supply chains.
Dustin Olsen
Chief Digital Officer
With over a decade of experience in web development, Dustin specializes in creating digital platforms that align with business goals and engage real audiences. As Chief Digital Officer at Rare Earth Exchanges, he oversees all consumer-facing digital assets — from the website and podcast to social media. A lifelong enthusiast of technology and automotive innovation, Dustin’s interest in rare earth elements was sparked by their critical role in these industries. Co-founding Rare Earth Exchanges was driven by a desire to explore that connection and make this complex topic more accessible to others.
Chad Nybo
Chief Technology Officer
Chad Nybo has a distinguished career in developing complex and highly creative software solutions for both corporations and government agencies. Chad graduated from Montana State University in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science in Economics.
John Parkinson
Chief Business Officer
John is a former PwC project finance advisor with deep experience in large-scale infrastructure and commercial strategy. A qualified CPA and civil engineer, he now leads commercial strategy and product development, driven by a long-term vision to increase transparency, data intelligence, and investor access in the global rare earth value chain. John is also an active investor in both rare earths and biotech, where he actively tracks emerging trends and high-impact innovation.
Headquarters
Salt Lake City, UT