Outrage + Optimism: The Climate Podcast
Persephonica and Global Optimism
Outrage + Optimism: The Climate Podcast is for anyone who is not ready to give up on making the world a better place. For unrivalled conversations with decision makers, visionary thinkers and a community of like-minded climate optimists, join former UN climate chief Christiana Figueres, political strategist Tom Rivett-Carnac and sustainable business consultant Paul Dickinson. Each week they make sense of all the top climate news stories, go behind the scenes at crucial talks and ensure you stay informed and inspired ahead of what is set to be the consequential year for climate action.As we approach the middle of the decisive decade for world emissions, and the 10 year anniversary of the Paris climate agreement, subscribe to Outrage + Optimism: The Climate PodcastAnd join us for our special Inside COP series with co-host Fiona McRaith where we bring you behind the scenes of COP30 in Belém! And to see video content from the show, follow us on LinkedIn, and Instagram. Got a question? Send us a voice message.This is a Persephonica production for Global Optimism and is part of the Acast Creator Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 15, 2026 • 38min
What does Trump’s UNFCCC exit mean for climate diplomacy?
Sue Biniaz, former U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for Climate Change, shares her expert perspective on the U.S. withdrawal from key climate treaties. She discusses the legal nuances of presidential withdrawal and the pathways for future re-entry. The conversation explores the potential for U.S. absence to spur progress in international negotiations and examines the impact on global leadership dynamics. Biniaz also highlights the significance of U.S. involvement as a non-party and the future of collective climate action in a fragmented world.
Jan 8, 2026 • 43min
Venezuela, Fossil Fuels, and the Year Ahead
The podcast dives into the complexities of global power in 2026, spotlighting the U.S. operation involving Venezuela’s president and its implications on sovereignty and fossil fuels. It examines the motives behind U.S. actions and their ties to oil politics. The discussion shifts to the rise of new populism and leadership changes, particularly from Gen Z politicians. It also highlights Brazil's pivotal role in climate diplomacy and the critical dynamics surrounding the selection of the next UN Secretary-General. A call for unity in climate action resonates throughout.
Jan 1, 2026 • 41min
Beginning the Year With Ancestral Wisdom
Mindahi Bastida, an Otomí-Toltec leader from Mexico, and Atawévi Akôyi Oussou Lio, Prince of the Tolinou people of Benin, share powerful insights on ancestral wisdom and Indigenous stewardship. They discuss the critical role of Indigenous voices at COP30, advocating for governance with free consent. Atawévi introduces the concept of 'ancestral intelligence' to complement modern education, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with nature. They highlight the need for intergenerational responsibility in addressing ecological crises, urging a cultural and spiritual shift in 2026.
Dec 24, 2025 • 45min
Why Beauty Matters in the Climate Crisis
In this engaging discussion, designer and artist Patrick Williams shares insights from his upcoming book, The House Rules. He explores how the post-lockdown world is fostering a desire for quality heirloom objects that reconnect us with beauty. Patrick emphasizes the importance of craft and traditional materials in sustainable design, reflecting on how modern architecture often alienates us from our surroundings. He argues that beauty can inspire climate action and foster community, urging us to invest in lasting, meaningful pieces over disposable consumption.
Dec 18, 2025 • 44min
Follow The Money: Who’s driving climate disinformation?
Jake Dubbins, an expert in advertising, climate, and human rights, probes the murky world of climate disinformation. He discusses how fossil fuel advertising parallels cigarette marketing and the alarming impact of automated ad systems that amplify harmful content. Dubbins also outlines the new Declaration on Information Integrity on Climate Change, aiming for policy change and transparency. With insights into AI's role in spreading misinformation, the conversation highlights the urgent need to address trust erosion in climate discourse.
8 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 49min
Paris, 10 Years On - Has it Changed the World?
A decade after the Paris Agreement, hosts explore its emotional impact and the tensions between hopes and reality. They debate whether it was a diplomatic breakthrough or a reliance on a myth. Personal anecdotes paint a vivid picture of that historic moment. The discussion reveals insights on binding rules versus sovereignty and the challenges of voluntary commitments. Notable outcomes include market shifts and renewable investments. Ultimately, they emphasize the ongoing need for decarbonization amid global challenges.
8 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 48min
Jacinda Ardern and… Is It Time to Talk About Geoengineering?
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shares her insights on empathetic leadership and the urgent need for climate action, labeling climate change as New Zealand's 'nuclear-free moment.' Investigative journalist Karl Mathiesen discusses the controversial advancements in solar geoengineering through Stardust, exploring its potential and the significant risks involved. The conversation touches on the precarious balance between technological progress and the slow pace of political response, highlighting the pressing demand for integrity-driven leadership in climate policy.
18 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 37min
Kim Stanley Robinson on Pre Traumatic Imagination and the stories that change us
In this engaging conversation, acclaimed author Kim Stanley Robinson shares insights from his groundbreaking work on climate fiction. He discusses the purpose behind the devastating opening of *The Ministry for the Future*, revealing its intent to inspire action from despair. Robinson introduces the concept of 'pre-traumatic syndrome,' urging the use of imaginative foresight to motivate preventive measures against climate catastrophe. He also emphasizes the importance of personal and societal projects, persistence in the face of challenge, and how storytelling shapes our collective future.
13 snips
Nov 23, 2025 • 38min
Inside COP: The Final Hours of COP30 - and the road ahead
The final day of COP30 brought unexpected tension and procedural drama, with Colombia's objections stalling discussions. The hosts delve into the implications of the closing plenary outcomes and reflect on the ambitious goals set in the Belém package. They highlight the acceleration of clean energy technologies and the shifting economics favoring renewables. Key topics include tripling adaptation finance, the introduction of the Global Implementation Accelerator, and the ongoing decline of fossil fuels. The insights hint at powerful global trends emerging in climate action.
Nov 22, 2025 • 38min
Inside COP: Friday Night in Belém - uncertainty in the Blue Zone
Mark Watts, Executive Director of C40 Cities, emphasizes the crucial role cities play in climate action, urging for their inclusion in negotiations. Irene Velez Torres, Colombia's Minister for Environment, passionately advocates for a fossil fuel phase-out roadmap and forest protection. Both guests share insights on the shifting COP landscape, highlighting frustration over weak draft texts and the urgency of robust climate commitments. They capture the palpable tension and hope within the Blue Zone, where passionate leaders strive toward a sustainable future.
