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
Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 6min
From Courtrooms to Statehouses: The US Climate Pushback
Sophia Li, an award-winning journalist and climate storyteller, co-hosts a lively discussion with Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha, who is battling to revive the Revolution Wind project, facing off against federal regulations. Musician and climate advocate Adam Met shares his Neo-Industrial Revolution declaration, urging a new language around climate engagement that connects with everyday life and job creation. They explore state and local climate actions, highlighting grassroots movements and the shift from individual solutions to structured civic engagement.
9 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 44min
Beyond the Bad News: Evidence for Climate Optimism
Ani Dasgupta, President & CEO of the World Resources Institute and author of 'The New Global Possible', joins the hosts to discuss the pressing climate crisis. He emphasizes that optimism is crucial for driving meaningful change, despite daunting challenges and stalled treaties. Dasgupta shares inspiring examples of global progress, such as electric buses in Kentucky and resilience strategies in Bangladesh. He underscores the importance of mobilizing collective will and innovative solutions to navigate obstacles and achieve a sustainable future.
Sep 4, 2025 • 58min
Rising Tides: How indigenous communities are facing the climate crisis
Guests like Andrew Higham, a former UNFCCC Senior Advisor, Lysa Wini from the Solomon Islands, Haida leader Wáahlaal Gidaag from Alaska, and Parnuna Egede Dahl from Greenland share poignant stories of indigenous resilience against climate change. Lysa highlights ancestral island-building methods while confronting rising seas. Wáahlaal reflects on intergenerational wisdom connecting land and sea, sparked by her son's curiosity. Parnuna discusses Greenland's governance and its crucial Paris Agreement decision, urging us to heed lessons from those on the climate front lines.
44 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 58min
Listening to the Living World: Can AI help us hear the planet?
Aza Raskin, co-founder of the Earth Species Project, and Jane Lawton, its Managing Director, delve into the revolutionary intersection of AI and nature. They discuss how AI can translate animal communication and the implications for understanding ecosystems. The conversation also explores the potential of AI to spark a cultural shift in our relationship with the environment. With intriguing insights on ecocentric governance and nature's legal voice, they highlight the urgency of addressing environmental crises through innovative technology.
Aug 27, 2025 • 5min
Introducing: Inside COP - the Official COP30 Podcast from Outrage + Optimism
The hosts reveal an exciting new podcast focused on COP30, promising daily insights straight from the event in Belém. They discuss crucial political negotiations and climate action agendas that will shape the future. Engaging Brazilian officials and climate experts, the show invites listeners to join the conversation and share their thoughts. This initiative aims to provide a unique look at the climate discussions and bridge the gap between negotiators and communities.
Aug 21, 2025 • 45min
You Are What You Eat: Soil, Seeds and Social Justice
What’s really in our food? Dive into the broken systems behind industrial agriculture and discover a transformative farm in Umbria. The founders embrace sustainable practices, promote fair labor, and reconnect with nature. Learn how language shapes our understanding of food, shifting from 'producing' to 'growing.' Explore the power of heirloom seeds and innovative methods that enhance soil health. This journey reflects resilience, empathy, and a vision for a more just food system.
27 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 54min
Too Hot to Handle?: Facing a Future Beyond 1.5°C
Ricken Patel, former CEO of Avaaz and a leading voice in climate activism, joins the hosts to discuss the pressing threat of surpassing the crucial 1.5°C warming threshold. He emphasizes the urgent need for climate contingency planning, exploring various carbon removal strategies and the challenges they pose. The conversation dives into the risks of climate overshoot, the importance of preparing for potential impacts, and the necessity of innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Patel's insights bring a hopeful yet realistic approach to the climate crisis.
11 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.
15 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.
