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 Podcast And to see video content from the show, follow us on LinkedIn, on Instagram and X.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
10 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 52min
Mistakes, Mistruths and Misinformation: Climate's biggest myths debunked
Dive into the pervasive myths surrounding climate change, from natural cycles to the impact of individual actions. Explore a pivotal report revealing the troubling rise of misinformation campaigns and the need for transparency in climate communications. Hear heartfelt discussions on building trust while debunking myths, and discover the ethical dilemmas in fighting for climate action. The podcast emphasizes the collective responsibility in both personal and systemic change, encouraging listeners to rethink their roles in creating a sustainable future.
Jul 31, 2025 • 56min
Trump’s War on Climate - and Maggie Baird on food justice and plant-based touring with Billie Eilish
Maggie Baird joins the conversation as an actor, producer, and climate activist, pushing for food justice through her initiative, Support + Feed. She shares insights on how Billie Eilish's concerts are going plant-based, seamlessly blending activism with entertainment. The discussion highlights the alarming reversal of U.S. climate policies under Trump, illustrating the urgent need for sustainability. Baird emphasizes the power of culture to inspire change and how optimism can flourish even amid climate challenges, advocating for collective action.
13 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 53min
*Breaking Planetary News*: The ICJ Climate Opinion Explained
Jennifer Robinson, an Australian barrister renowned for her human rights advocacy, and Julian Aguon, an Indigenous lawyer representing Pacific nations, share their passion for climate justice. They discuss the recent landmark ruling by the International Court of Justice declaring climate action a legal obligation. The guests highlight the significance of holding states accountable for emissions and the possibility of reparations. Their insights reflect the emotional weight of this legal milestone and reinforce the role of Indigenous voices in shaping sustainable solutions.
13 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 58min
Planes, Protests, Pensions... and have banks given up on saving the planet?
Fiona McRaith, Director of The Climate Pledge at Global Optimism, guest hosts along with Sue Reid, Climate Finance Advisor at Global Optimism. They delve into the potential role of local travel in reducing emissions, urging a shift in consumer behavior. The conversation shifts to whether financial institutions are truly committed to climate action amid political pressures. Reid discusses the rise of 'green hushing' and the need for urgent adaptation strategies globally, emphasizing that effective climate resilience requires collective, innovative action.
6 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 56min
From Outrage to Action: Your Questions, Our Answers
Fiona McRaith, Director of The Climate Pledge at Global Optimism, joins the discussion alongside hosts Christiana Figueres and Paul Dickinson. They tackle listener questions on the future of climate diplomacy and the significance of the Pacific concept of 'va' in fostering global relationships. The conversation shifts to the urgent need for local leadership and legal advancements linking climate change with human rights. They also critique current energy pricing in the UK, advocating for a shift towards renewable energy solutions.
Jul 3, 2025 • 56min
The Climate Case of the Century: Inside the story of a youth-led legal movement
Cynthia Houniuhi, a passionate advocate and law professor from the Pacific Islands, shares her journey in launching a youth-led legal movement uniting over 130 countries for climate justice. She discusses the groundbreaking campaign leading to the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion on climate and human rights. The conversation highlights the power of youth leadership, the importance of legal activism, and the emotional drive behind collective action for a sustainable future, underscoring the critical role of intergenerational responsibility in climate advocacy.
Jul 1, 2025 • 6min
O+O Recommends: 'When Science Finds A Way'
Discover how the link between climate change and health is reshaping communities. Learn about innovative solutions like cool roofs, which use reflective paint to combat extreme heat. These roofs not only reduce temperatures but offer benefits like waterproofing and noise reduction. Dive into rigorous studies showcasing their effectiveness, supported by research involving 600 households. Tune in for inspiring narratives of resilience and adaptation in a rapidly changing world.
Jun 26, 2025 • 39min
Health Warning: The Human Cost of Climate Inaction with Julia Gillard
Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia and Chair of the Wellcome Trust, dives into the urgent health implications of the climate crisis. She emphasizes the need to shift the dialogue from mere temperature increases to the real lives and health outcomes at stake. The discussion highlights alarming health risks, such as excess deaths and mental health challenges exacerbated by climate change. Gillard advocates for integrating health into climate strategies, inspiring a movement towards faster action and collaborative solutions in public health and policy.
5 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 55min
Could This Change Your Life?: The Climate Tech Revolution
Discover the quiet revolution in climate tech that’s reshaping our future with innovative materials and solutions. From bio-based foams to AI water management, explore how these breakthroughs tackle the climate crisis. Learn about the importance of community-driven initiatives and sustainable practices, especially in fashion and food waste. Dive into cutting-edge strategies like RFID technology that reduce e-waste and the potential of algae-based coatings for carbon capture. Join the movement for a livable, low-carbon world!
17 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 45min
Hope for the High Seas?: Sylvia Earle and Oceans on the World Stage
Sylvia Earle, a pioneering marine biologist and former chief scientist of NOAA, joins the discussion on global ocean conservation. As leaders gather for the UN Ocean Conference, she reflects on the urgency of the High Seas Treaty to protect deep-sea biodiversity. Earle shares captivating stories from her explorations, highlighting the perilous state of our oceans due to pollution and overfishing. Her passionate call for international collaboration underscores the need to safeguard the oceans, the planet's essential life support system.
