Dionne Searcey

Dionne Searcey, a New York Times correspondent, dives into the cobalt mining scene in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the epicenter of the global clean energy race. She highlights the stark contrasts between Kinshasa’s allure and the harsh realities miners face. Searcey explores the intense rivalry for cobalt between the U.S. and China, revealing the geopolitical implications of this resource struggle. Personal stories from local miners paint a vivid picture of their daily battles, underscoring the human cost behind the metal that powers our future.

Dionne Searcey, a seasoned domestic correspondent for The New York Times, joins Terry Wycombe, the pragmatic Mayor of Rawlins, Wyoming. They delve into the surprising acceptance of wind energy in a state long identified with coal. Topics include the local pride in fossil fuels, emerging opportunities for renewable energy, and the clash between new wind farms and community values. They discuss the emotional ties residents have to their landscapes and the implications of transitioning away from a coal-based economy while highlighting local governance's role in this transformative moment.