Ben Rhodes, former Deputy National Security Advisor under Obama and a keen political analyst, joins the conversation to tackle the pressing issue of climate populism. He argues for a fresh strategy to harness populist sentiments for climate action, aiming to shift the focus onto the oil and gas industry's control over negotiations. The discussion also delves into the contrasting political styles of Trump and Harris, the impact of U.S. policy shifts on global climate cooperation, and the importance of engaging diverse voices in the climate movement.

Ellen MacArthur, a world record-breaking sailor and founder of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, joins the discussion to tackle the pressing issue of plastic pollution. They explore the recent challenges surrounding the global plastics treaty negotiations and the need for decisive international action. The conversation covers the critical role of the private sector in addressing this crisis and the potential of innovative recycling technologies. By emphasizing circularity and raising public awareness, they highlight paths toward a sustainable future.

This week features Clay Carnill, a talented podcast producer celebrated for his humor and attention to detail. The discussion dives into the highs and lows of COP29 in Baku, focusing on a hard-fought but inadequate finance deal. The team critiques Azerbaijan's COP presidency and reflects on the urgent need for substantial climate action. They also share heartfelt farewells to Clay as he departs, celebrating his significant contributions and the joy he brought to the show. Tune in for insights, nostalgia, and an optimistic look to the future!

Sue Reid, a Climate Finance Advisor at Global Optimism, joins the discussion, sharing insights from COP29 in Baku. She emphasizes the urgent need for climate finance to scale from billions to trillions, citing commitments from G20 leaders. The conversation highlights innovative funding mechanisms as crucial solutions to meet climate demands. Reid expresses optimism about investors aligning with civil society for impactful commitments, showcasing how public finance can catalyze private investments to tackle systemic climate challenges.

Ed Miliband, the UK’s Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, passionately discusses the UK’s ambitious climate targets, advocating for significant updates to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Ana Toni, Brazil’s National Secretary for Climate Change, joins in to emphasize international cooperation between Brazil and the UK to combat climate issues. Together, they highlight the critical need for leadership, investment, and collaboration to achieve sustainability, framing this decade as vital for a greener future.

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, known for her pioneering Bridgetown Agenda, teams up with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy to discuss urgent climate action. They address the need for reform in global finance to support developing nations against climate challenges. Topics include climate finance, enhancing resilience to natural disasters, and the vital role of international cooperation. This inspiring conversation calls for a fairer global financial system, ensuring no country is left behind in the race to combat climate change.

Tony Goldner, Executive Director of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures, sheds light on the recent Biodiversity COP in Colombia. He emphasizes the urgent need for businesses to integrate nature into their risk assessments, discussing how corporate resilience relies on the health of ecosystems. As mandatory nature disclosures gain traction, Tony highlights the role of investors in demanding accountability. He also stresses the importance of actionable sustainability strategies and the invaluable contributions of Indigenous leaders in climate initiatives.

Yassamin Ansari, Congresswoman-elect for Arizona's 3rd District and a champion of progressive change, shares her insights on the surprising implications of Trump's presidency for climate policy. She discusses the vital role of young leaders in promoting resilience and hope amid political polarization. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating climate initiatives in a divided landscape, the impact on international climate agreements, and the importance of diverse representation in governance. Expect a dose of optimism as Ansari emphasizes the need for collaboration in achieving meaningful climate action.

Monica Medina, Arnhold Distinguished Fellow at Conservation International and former US Special Envoy for Biodiversity, joins a lively discussion about biodiversity at the COP negotiations in Colombia. She highlights the critical link between climate and biodiversity and shares her optimism about a new oceans fund. The conversation dives into the importance of indigenous participation and fair compensation for genetic resources, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches to environmental stewardship and financial support for local communities.

Ben Goldsmith, a green investment pioneer and rewilding advocate, dives deep into the transformative power of rewilding to restore ecosystems. He discusses how music festivals like Glastonbury can elevate environmental consciousness and shares inspiring conservation stories, including efforts to save the northern white rhino. The conversation emphasizes grassroots community projects, the emotional bond humans share with nature, and the ecological benefits of reintroducing species like wolves. Goldsmith highlights the crucial link between nature's revival and our collective well-being.