
When We Are with Alex Steffen
The climate crisis is no longer something happening to other people, somewhere else. It's changing all our lives, right now. Few of us are ready.
Join renowned climate futurist Alex Steffen and guests as we show the patterns behind the chaos, learn how to build smart climate strategies, and laugh at the absurdity of daily life in discontinuous times. alexsteffen.substack.com
Latest episodes

9 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 19min
Crisis Advice for Young People
The discussion focuses on how having loved ones spurs a deeper concern for the future. Young people face unique challenges in a world of uncertainty and change. Strategies for resilience and proactive planning are emphasized, highlighting the importance of adapting to outdated systems. There's no universal answer, but valuable insights are shared to help individuals carve their own paths toward a better life. Listeners are encouraged to take ownership of their futures, preparing for the unpredictable road ahead.

9 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 33min
The Horizon of Your Concern
The podcast dives into the profound implications of climate change for future generations. It highlights the alarming rise in sea levels and the uneven challenges faced by coastal cities. Listeners are urged to adapt personal climate strategies amid increasing disruption rather than seeking simple solutions. There's a call to reframe education, preparing children for a rapidly changing world. Ultimately, it emphasizes the importance of evolving decision-making tools to navigate the unpredictable impacts of the climate crisis.

12 snips
May 24, 2025 • 34min
Climate Action is Now Harm Reduction
This discussion delves into the harsh realities of the climate crisis, urging a shift from viewing climate action as a solution to recognizing it as harm reduction. Topics include the political delays undermining effective climate responses and the bleak future facing vulnerable communities. The need for inclusive growth is highlighted, especially regarding climate-induced migration. Urgent calls for proactive strategies emphasize adapting to pressing challenges while confronting the aggressive tactics of anti-climate factions.

10 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 18min
Flying Blind into Chaos
The podcast dives into the chaos surrounding the National Climate Assessment, emphasizing its essential role in tackling climate change. It highlights how political interference threatens valuable scientific insights and the urgency for clear communication in the climate crisis. The discussion warns of the consequences of privatized climate data, which limits access for individuals in making informed decisions. Despite the weighty topics, the urgency for action is underscored, indicating the need for everyone to engage with these pressing issues.

24 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 43min
Too Far Ahead, Until It's Not.
The discussion dives into the challenges of predicting future trends amid climate change. A pivotal shift is noted as businesses adapt their strategies in response to urgent climate risks. Extreme weather is leading to financial troubles, prompting a reallocation of resources. The readiness gap in U.S. climate action is emphasized, highlighting the need for innovative infrastructure. Finally, the benefits of being a first mover in a rapidly changing landscape are explored, urging a fresh perspective on opportunities and risks.

Mar 9, 2025 • 23min
The Hunger for Connection in Context.
The discussion dives into the struggles of engaging in honest conversations about climate change, highlighting feelings of isolation. There’s a push for meaningful dialogue that moves beyond acknowledgment to addressing the deeper context of our shared experiences. The need for genuine connection in the face of unprecedented change is emphasized as a crucial element for inspiring transformative action. This quest for real connections reflects a desire to navigate the complexities of our current reality with hope and resilience.

7 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 21min
Tools for Tempestuous Times
Explore personal strategies for navigating the escalating climate crisis and societal chaos. Learn how to develop your own safety and relocation plans, as collective action is no longer enough. The urgency for individual climate readiness has never been clearer. Tune in for insights on adapting to a world filled with uncertainty and preparing yourself and your family for the challenges ahead.

8 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 19min
Hunting for Home in a Climate Crisis
Discover how climate change is reshaping housing decisions as extreme weather and rising insurance costs create urgency. The discussion dives into the difference between 'climate shocks' and 'climate stresses,' offering vital advice for homebuyers. Learn about the influence of urban planning on climate resilience and the challenges cities face in adapting to these shifts. Explore the importance of understanding risks beyond standard assessments and the critical role of infrastructure in combating the climate crisis.

Feb 21, 2025 • 18min
The Trillion-Dollar Brittleness Bubble
Discover the alarming concept of the 'brittleness bubble,' where our climate crisis threatens property values and forces migration. Delve into staggering predictions, like $1.47 trillion in lost real estate over the next 30 years, affecting a vast majority of U.S. communities. Learn how worsening insurability and economic shifts lead to climate abandonment neighborhoods. The discussion highlights the unpredictable nature of climate impacts and the urgent need for informed decision-making in this volatile environment.

Feb 3, 2025 • 13min
Letting Go of Everything We Expected
The discussion dives into the emotional rollercoaster of unexpected upheaval, urging listeners to embrace change. It highlights the need for new thinking in the face of climate impact and societal challenges. The idea of discontinuity is presented not as a disaster, but as a fertile ground for reimagining personal and communal futures. Letting go of previous expectations opens doors to resilience and adaptability. It's an empowering message that encourages reshaping lives in a world that demands flexibility.