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
Oct 9, 2025 • 47min
Inside COP: A New Economy Rising - from promises to progress
Aniket Shah, Global Head of ESG and Sustainable Finance at Jefferies, discusses the pivotal role of capital flows in driving sustainable investment, emphasizing the need for policy-driven low-carbon growth. Daniel Gajardo, co-founder of Reciprocal, shares insights on how Latin American entrepreneurs are crafting localized climate solutions, like biotech innovations. Together, they explore the essence of COP30 as a moment for real climate action implementation, bridging promises with tangible outcomes in the new green economy.
Oct 3, 2025 • 37min
Remembering Jane Goodall
In a touching tribute, renowned primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall is remembered through heartfelt reflections from her close friend, Mary Lewis, Vice President of the Jane Goodall Institute. They discuss Jane’s incredible humility and her unique ability to make everyone feel special, from children to global admirers. Mary shares inspiring anecdotes about Jane’s relentless work ethic and her emphasis on collaboration over competition. The conversation also highlights Jane's belief in local action leading to global change and her unwavering hope in youth to drive a better future.
4 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 49min
Inside COP: How to Build a COP
Thais Bilenky, a Brazilian political journalist, shares insights on Brazil's domestic politics and the upcoming COP30 in Belém. She discusses Lula's strategies on the global stage and the tensions between national policies and regional interests. Bilenky highlights the delicate balance of conservation and economic development, especially in the context of Pará. She explains how the location of COP30 reflects political dynamics and addresses Brazilian skepticism about the summit's true impact, shedding light on public perceptions around climate action.
Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 1min
Inside COP: The countdown to COP30 at New York Climate Week
Ana Toni, CEO and pivotal figure in the COP30 presidency, shares insights on the road to COP30. She emphasizes the importance of Nationally Determined Contributions and the necessity for collaboration, especially in fostering inclusion of indigenous and Global South leadership. The discussion also highlights Brazil's Mutirão concept for large-scale climate initiatives and the shift towards implementation-driven climate actions. Toni calls for a focus on the quality of NDCs, advocating for grassroots innovation and strong civil society engagement in tackling the climate crisis.
4 snips
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.
