Outrage + Optimism: The Climate Podcast

Greg Bertelsen, Chief Executive of the Climate Leadership Council, dives into the implications of a second Trump presidency on climate efforts. He discusses the urgent need for proactive environmental strategies following the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. The conversation highlights contradictions in U.S. energy policy and critiques the interplay between wealth and environmental negligence. Bertelsen emphasizes the importance of bipartisan dialogue and innovative business initiatives to combat climate change amidst a challenging political landscape.

The dramatic start to 2025 is marked by the catastrophic fires in LA, revealing climate change's harsh reality. The conversation delves into how thriving neighborhoods are affected, the role of private firefighting, and the increasing urgency for climate action. Also discussed are the intertwined fates of biodiversity and climate, legal implications of upcoming climate lawsuits, and the significance of Climate Week leading to COP30. Humor and personal anecdotes about pivotal climate moments add a relatable touch to this urgent dialogue.

Dive into a conversation about the urgent need for climate action as 2025 approaches. Reflect on the past decade since the Paris Agreement, celebrating progress while acknowledging ongoing challenges. Discover how businesses are shifting towards collaboration with governments, fostering optimism in tackling climate issues. Join visionary thinkers as they inspire collective action and a hopeful future for our planet.

Explore how pet ownership intersects with sustainability and the surprising impact of our furry friends on the environment. Dive into the challenges posed by desertification and the importance of proactive climate conversations. The debate around nuclear energy reveals its pros and cons, while the complex relationship between warfare and climate change raises critical questions. Lastly, rethink air travel with the concept of global rationing to mitigate CO2 emissions, alongside tips for discussing climate issues with children.

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.