Unite and Heal America with Matt Matern

Can our current social movements overcome political inertia to save us from the climate crisis, or is apocalyptic optimism our best path forward?

Ocean health is not just a climate issue; it's a justice issue. And change starts with empowered citizens, innovative solutions, and inclusive leadership. In this episode, we sit down with Antoinette Vermilye, co-founder of the Gallifrey Foundation and SHE Changes Climate. She discusses the hidden costs of our plastic addiction, from microplastics in our bloodstreams to the looming threat of deep sea mining. We also dive deep into ocean ecosystems, corporate greenwashing, and why empowering women could be the key to a livable future. Antoinette shows how small actions, coalition-building, and reframing environmental narratives can spark real impact. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Can politics reshape our climate future? The climate crisis is driven not just by emissions but by power, political power. In this episode of A Climate Change, we sit down with political scientist and Vice Chair at the Political Science Department at UC Santa Barbara, Paasha Mahdavi, to unpack how government decisions and national oil companies shape the global energy landscape. From methane mitigation to clean tech policy, Mahdavi reveals why systemic change starts with governance. Learn how political engagement, not just personal choices, can drive transformative climate action.

Can environmental rollbacks be reversed, or are we already too late? Inside Climate News reporter Kiley Bense examines President Trump's first 100 days in office. focusing on the effects of his environmental policy—including massive EPA funding cuts, the dismantling of federal agencies, and the weakening of environmental safeguards. Bense unpacks how these actions threaten progress on the climate crisis, undermine disaster response through FEMA restructuring, and put vulnerable communities at greater risk by defunding the LIHEAP program. You can find Kiley's work at insideclimatenews.org/profile/kiley-bense. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

The climate crisis is urgent, but tackling it with humor might be more powerful than you think. Comedian and writer Rasheda Crockett shares how humor can make climate conversations more engaging, relatable, and impactful. From her award-winning climate comedy series to an animated show about a whale-turned-lifeguard, Rasheda reveals how laughter helps unpack complex climate science, ease eco-anxiety, and inspire real change.

Can climate advocates continue without basic economic security? The answer, unsurprisingly, is no. Mauricio Porras, co-founder of HERO - a groundbreaking platform providing basic income to climate activists worldwide and TEDx speaker- explains the economics of climate action. He unpacks the importance of reimagining activism, strategies to fund frontline climate leaders, and how to build bridges between communities. His goal is simple, develop a counterforce to the political lobbyists that work for people.

Climate change is no laughing matter. But laughing about it can actually help push the needle of climate action forward in unexpected ways. Comedian and educator Esteban Jorge Gast helps unpack how humor can make climate action more accessible and impactful. Tracing his journey from teaching to stand-up, Esteban shares how he uses laughter to break down complex climate issues, build diverse coalitions through initiatives like Climate Comedy Cohort, and challenge political narratives.

The circular economy could be the biggest climate solution we're ignoring. So... what's the holdup? In this episode, Elin Bergman, Executive Director of Cradlenet Sweden and Co-Founder of the Nordic Circular Hotspot, shares how the circular economy could mitigate 40-70% of global carbon emissions. We also discuss fast fashion, e-waste, and AI's hidden environmental costs. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Can the communication channels of today be used to serve the fight against climate change, rather than deter it? In our latest episode, we explore the climate action movement with Kamila Camilo, Founder of Creators Academy Brazil. She shares how content creators are being mobilized to share positive environmental stories, the grassroots initiatives empowering indigenous communities through the digital economy, and why hope-based climate communication is more effective than fear. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

What if climate anxiety could be the fire that sparks climate action? Dr. Charlie Gardner believes that it can. The conservation scientist and professor at the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology joins us for a critical conversation on the importance of environmental activism, in whatever shape or form, on part of scientists and academicians in the fight against the climate crisis. This episode of A Climate Change serves as a much-needed reminder that actions will always speak louder than words.

Could waste from one industry become the climate solution for another? Madison Savilow, Director of Corporate and External Affairs, Carbon Upcycling, joins us for a deep dive into the world of carbon capture - its potential, the why and how, and how it is revolutionizing the world of construction, and thereby, environmental protection.

Diego Saez Gil, the Founder and CEO of Pachama, joins us to explore how AI and satellite technology are revolutionizing forest conservation and carbon credit verification. Diego shares insights on partnering with tech giants, working with indigenous communities, and leveraging AI to protect nature.

Zanagee Artis, Fossil Fuels Policy Advocate at NRDC and co-founder of Zero Hour joins us to discuss the urgent fight for ocean conservation and climate justice. We dive into how young activists shape climate policy, the battle against offshore drilling, and the promise of offshore wind energy. Zanagee shares his journey from youth organizer to national advocate and why the next two years are critical for climate action.

Dr. Gavin Schmidt, Director of NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies, joins us for a deep dive into climate science, climate modeling, and the future of sustainable civilization. Gavin shares insights on the Arctic's rapid warming, machine learning's role in climate predictions, and the impact of methane emissions. We also explore how climate science intersects with astrobiology and the search for extraterrestrial civilizations.

Paul Hawken, renowned environmentalist and bestselling author, joins us to explore a revolutionary approach to climate action—one rooted in regeneration, not reduction. He challenges conventional climate narratives, critiques the shortcomings of net-zero goals and carbon credits, and explains why language shapes our relationship with nature. Hawken also reveals how his latest book, Carbon: The Book of Life, reimagines our connection to the living world.

Heather McTeer Toney, environmental justice leader, former mayor of Greenville, MS, and Executive Director of Bloomberg Philanthropies' Beyond Petrochemicals campaign joins us to discuss the dangers of petrochemical expansion and the role of local activism in shaping national climate policy. She shares insights on environmental justice, community advocacy, and how pollution affects marginalized communities. She also explains key themes from her book, Before the Streetlights Come On, and how collective action can drive meaningful change in the fight for climate justice. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Saad Amer, environmental justice expert and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree joins us to discuss the intersection of climate action and political engagement. He shares insights on grassroots organizing, corporate accountability, and the role of policy in advancing sustainability. He also explains how individual and collective action can drive meaningful environmental progress, even in politically divisive and challenging times. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Andrew Jones, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Climate Interactive joins us to explore groundbreaking climate simulation tools shaping global policy decisions. We dive into Climate Interactive's En ROADS model, used by Congress members and educators worldwide, and we discuss its role in making climate science actionable. Andrew highlights effective climate solutions, challenges less impactful ones, and emphasizes the importance of reducing fossil fuel use and protecting forests. Tune in for a deep dive into how data-driven simulations bridge the gap between climate knowledge and action. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Astrophysicist, sustainability advocate, and author Dr. Joshua Spodek joins us to discusses breaking free from processed food addiction, building community-driven environmental solutions, and embracing the Spodek Method - a unique approach focusing on intrinsic motivation for sustainable action. Josh shares insights from his latest book, Sustainability Simplified, which captures Josh's life journey and reveals how our culture became so polluting, and shows practical and liberating solutions for individuals, nations, and the world. You can pre-order his new book here: https://a.co/d/5HpYyXp If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Renowned environmentalist, author, and journalist, Bill Mckibben joins us to discuss the landscape of renewable energy and climate action. We explore key developments, including the rapid adoption of solar power, China's leadership in clean energy technology, and the impact of recent climate policies like the Inflation Reduction Act.

Terry Tamminen, President and CEO of AltaSea, joins us to discuss the urgent need to improve ocean health. They explore innovative blue technologies, including regenerative aquaculture, wave energy, and CO2 removal technologies. Terry emphasizes the importance of collective action and shares insights on AltaSea's role in developing sustainable ocean-based solutions. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Captain Paul Watson, founder of the Captain Paul Watson Foundation, joins host Matt Matern on Climate Change to discuss his battle against illegal whaling in Japan and Iceland, his recent arrest, and the vital role of grassroots activism. Dive into the complexities of international conservation, the power of public support, and the urgent need for individual action in protecting our planet's marine ecosystems. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Dr. Kristina Dahl, VP for Science at Climate Central, joins us to share her transformative journey into climate science, the art of communicating complex climate issues, and the pivotal role of policy in environmental advocacy. She offers insights on the importance of individual and collective action in shaping a sustainable future. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

In this episode of A Climate Change, host Matt Matern talks with Paul Ehrlich, renowned author of The Population Bomb and Professor Emeritus at Stanford. We discuss the global impact of overpopulation, food security challenges, and systemic change's critical role in combating climate disruption. Paul emphasizes the need for sustainable practices, women's rights, and ethical responses to climate-driven migration, urging listeners to take action for a more sustainable future. If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

In this throwback episode, we're joined by Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, renowned atmospheric scientist and author, they discuss the intersection of faith and climate action, the importance of individual and systemic change, the role of extreme weather in shaping public perception of climate change, and how faith, beliefs and science must come together for effective climate action. Tune in for an insightful conversation that underscores the importance of uniting for a sustainable future! If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Energy is changing in more ways than one! On the latest episode of A Climate Change, host Matt Matern is joined by Andy Marsh, CEO of Plug Power - a 12 billion dollar company that is leading the charge in hydrogen-based energy in the vehicular segment. Together, they cover the exciting and innovative advancements in hydrogen technology, the role of fuel cells in commercial vehicles, and how Plug Power's vision ties it all together. If you're curious about what lies ahead for us in the future of green energy, this is the conversation for you! Speaking of green, if you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Environmental educator and Yale Climate Connections contributor Dr. Michael Svoboda joins us to discuss the best sustainability-themed books for holiday gifting. He highlights impactful titles addressing climate change, biodiversity, and the food system, like Atlas of a Threatened Planet and Before They Vanish. We also explore works connecting environmental advocacy to motherhood and visually stunning books like Entropy, offering thoughtful gift ideas to inspire action and a sustainable future. Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Veteran guest, Garrett Nilsen, Deputy Director of the Department of Energy's Solar Energy Technologies Office joins us to discuss advancements in solar technology and the remarkable growth of solar energy in the U.S., now providing 6.5% of the nation's electricity. He highlights the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on domestic solar manufacturing and our progress in decarbonization. Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

Welcome to this episode of A Climate Change. I'm Matt Matern, your host. Today, I'm pleased to welcome Auden Schendler, SVP of Sustainability at Aspen One. Join us as we discuss tackling climate change through systemic reforms. Auden critiques corporate sustainability's limits highlights transformative policies like the Inflation Reduction Act, and calls for community-driven action to reshape public policy and fight climate complicity. Here are the key topics discussed: Introduction to Climate Change Auden's Journey into Environmentalism Understanding Climate Complicity Corporate Sustainability vs. Systemic Change Public Perception and Political Action Key Actions for Systemic Change Inflation Reduction Act and Carbon Pricing  State-Level Initiatives and Success Stories Engaging as Citizens for Climate Action If you want to learn more about Grid Strategies, visit: https://gridstrategiesllc.com/. Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how. You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Welcome to this episode of A Climate Change. I'm Matt Matern, your host. Today, I'm pleased to welcome Rob Gramlich to the show. Rob has over 25 years of experience in energy policy and electricity markets. He is the Founder and President of Grid Strategies, a power sector consulting firm helping clients understand the opportunities and barriers to integrating clean energy into the electric grid.  Join us as we discuss: Challenges in Grid Expansion: Regulatory, Permitting, and Public Opinion Recent Political Climate The Rise of Renewable Energy Impact of Emerging Technologies on Electric Demand Battery Storage and Hydrogen as a Clean Energy Source Corporate Involvement and Stability in Energy Policy International Energy Infrastructure Examples Key Issues for Listeners If you want to learn more about Grid Strategies, visit: https://gridstrategiesllc.com/. Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how. You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Welcome to this episode of A Climate Change. I'm Matt Matern, your host. Today, I'm pleased to welcome Rob Gramlich to the show. Rob has over 25 years of experience in energy policy and electricity markets. He is the Founder and President of Grid Strategies, a power sector consulting firm helping clients understand the opportunities and barriers to integrating clean energy into the electric grid.  Join us as we discuss: Challenges in Grid Expansion: Regulatory, Permitting, and Public Opinion Recent Political Climate The Rise of Renewable Energy Impact of Emerging Technologies on Electric Demand Battery Storage and Hydrogen as a Clean Energy Source Corporate Involvement and Stability in Energy Policy International Energy Infrastructure Examples Key Issues for Listeners If you want to learn more about Grid Strategies, visit: https://gridstrategiesllc.com/. Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how. You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Dr. Davide Faranda discusses climate attribution science, extreme weather, litigation against polluters, and the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy.

Dr. Davide Faranda, an expert in climate attribution science joins us to discuss the science linking fossil fuel emissions to extreme weather events, the growing field of climate litigation, and the impacts of climate change on storms like hurricanes. Dr. Faranda explains how AI and historical data are used to understand and predict climate trends. They also explore the Arctic's rapid warming, global adaptation challenges, and the importance of transitioning to renewable energy. If you want to learn more about ClimaMeter, visit: www.climameter.org Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how. 

Nathaniel Stinnett joins us to talk about his journey from political campaigns to founding the Environmental Voter Project, which focuses on motivating climate-conscious citizens to vote. His research shows that while many Americans care about environmental issues, too few cast ballots. Nathaniel discusses how building a reliable climate-focused voting base could drive real political change, ensuring politicians address climate policy with the urgency it requires. If you want ot learn more about the Environmental Voter Project and how you can get involved, visit: www.environmentalvoter.org Make sure you go out and vote! Visit Vote.gov to learn how to register and to find your nearest polling place.  Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.  You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Nathaniel Stinnett discusses mobilizing non-voting environmentalists, aiming to boost turnout and build political power for climate action through the Environmental Voter Project.

Today, we're joined by California State Senator Ben Allen to explore the critical climate and political stakes of the 2024 election. He discusses the vastly different climate policies between Trump and Harris and highlights the influence of fossil fuel interests on Republican politics, the urgency of voter turnout, and the challenges of misinformation in shaping public perception of environmental issues. Senator Allen also shares California's approach to climate policy and its impact on national standards for sustainability and clean energy. Make sure you go out and vote! Visit Vote.gov to learn how to register and to find your nearest polling place.  Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.  You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Matt and California Senator Ben Allen discuss the 2024 election's environmental stakes, from fossil fuel influence and climate policy contrasts to the critical role of voter turnout and the impact of misinformation.

Republican Mayor Rex Parris joins us to discuss the city of Lancaster's efforts to become hydrogen-powered, inspired by Japan's expertise. Matt and Rex discuss the urgent need to address climate change, particularly ocean warming and intensifying hurricanes. ‘ They also dive deep into the upcoming election, who the better candidate for the environment is, and how the fossil fuel industry continues to have a grip on the Republican Party. You can learn more about Mayor Parris' strides in Lancaster at: www.cityoflancasterca.org Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.  You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Lancaster's Mayor, Rex Parris, is pushing for hydrogen energy, learning from Japan. Urgent climate action is needed, but fossil fuel interests slow progress. Solutions exist, but action lags.

Today, we're joined by Shara Mohtadi, co-founder of S2 Strategies and former Chief of Staff at the U.S. Department of Energy. Shara shares how witnessing humanitarian crises in her youth sparked her interest in the link between climate change, migration, and conflict, eventually leading her to work in clean energy policy. She discusses the role of state governments in accessing federal clean energy resources, especially after the Inflation Reduction Act, and highlights Minnesota as a model for effective clean energy initiatives. You can follow Shara's work on by visiting www.S2Strategies.org Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees? Visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how. You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Matt Matern interviews Shara Mohtadi, co-founder of S2 Strategies and former White House Senior Advisor. Shara shares how witnessing humanitarian crises led her to clean energy policy, discussing how states can leverage the Inflation Reduction Act

In this second half of our interview, Paul Bledsoe, former Clinton White House climate advisor, warns of the environmental dangers posed by Donald Trump's “Project 2025,” which seeks to dismantle key agencies like the EPA. Bledsoe explains Trump's second term could be more dangerous, contrasting it with Kamala Harris's centrist, pro-clean energy approach.  He stresses the importance of voter turnout, particularly among young people, and highlights the election's global stakes, including climate policy, the war in Ukraine, and international alliances. You can find Paul on X @paulbledsoe and you can read his work on his website: https://paulbledsoe.com/ Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees? Visit https://aclimatechange.com/trees/ to learn how. You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Paul Bledsoe warns of Trump's "Project 2025" and its threat to environmental protections, urging voter turnout to support Kamala Harris's clean energy policies.

Join Matt Matern in his weekly climate podcast where we explore environmental and political issues, inspire action, and create a coalition to save our planet.

Join Matt Matern in his weekly climate podcast where we explore environmental and political issues, inspire action, and create a coalition to save our planet.

Paul Bledsoe, former Clinton White House climate advisor, joins Matt to discuss the 2024 election. He emphasizes how Vice President Kamala Harris can counter Donald Trump's attacks on clean energy and highlights the Biden-Harris administration's massive clean energy investments. Bledsoe discusses the economic impacts of climate change and the need for stronger methane regulations, framing climate as both an economic and public safety issue. You can find Paul on X @paulbledsoe and you can read his work on his website: https://paulbledsoe.com/ Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees? Visit https://aclimatechange.com/trees/ to learn how. You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Paul Bledsoe highlights Kamala Harris's clean energy achievements, urging her to emphasize climate change as an economic issue in the 2024 election against Trump.

Dr. Susan Solomon joins the podcast to discuss climate change solutions and her book "Solvable: How We Healed the Earth, and How We Can Do It Again." She highlights the growing use of renewables, the need for grid modernization, and stresses achieving net zero by 2050. Dr. Solomon shares her hope for the future as more of the public and our leadership shift their views on the climate crisis. You can find Dr. Solomon's book on Amazon or any major retailer: https://amzn.to/3X67xzV Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees? Visit https://aclimatechange.com/trees/ to learn how. You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Dr. Susan Solomon joins the podcast to discuss climate change solutions and her book "Solvable: How We Healed the Earth, and How We Can Do It Again." She highlights the growing use of renewables, the need for grid modernization, and stresses achieving net zero by 2050. Dr. Solomon shares her hope for the future as more of the public and our leadership shift their views on the climate crisis.

Staci Roberts-Steele discusses her climate activism through films like "Don't Look Up," and her work at Yellow Dot Studios. She shares insights on using satire and storytelling to expose oil industry practices and promote climate action. Matt and Staci explore the role of media in raising awareness and the importance of engaging the public through creative, impactful content. To learn more about Yellow Dot and to watch their short films, visit: www.yellowdotstudios.com Want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees? Visit https://aclimatechange.com/trees/ to learn how. You can also find us on Apple, Spotify, or whenever you get podcasts.

Staci Roberts-Steele discusses her climate activism through films like "Don't Look Up," and her work at Yellow Dot Studios. She highlights the power of media in raising climate awareness and pushing for urgent action.