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
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.
Jun 5, 2025 • 59min
COP30: Can Brazil deliver a global breakthrough?
Ana Toni, CEO of COP30, discusses Brazil's pivotal role as the host of this crucial climate summit. She shares insights on the country's preparations and ambitions for ambitious climate action amid political complexities. The concept of 'mutirão' emphasizes collective efforts and solidarity in tackling climate challenges. With a focus on phasing out fossil fuels and protecting nature, the conversation explores whether COP30 can indeed become a breakthrough moment or risk falling into old patterns of division and distraction.
May 29, 2025 • 1h 3min
Sovereignty and Survival: A Spotlight on Vanuatu
Join Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's Minister, and Christopher Bartlett, a climate policy strategist, as they navigate the pressing climate crisis facing Vanuatu. Regenvanu shares powerful insights on self-determination and land ownership, rooted in the nation's colonial history. Bartlett highlights Vanuatu's leadership in climate advocacy, including their pioneering ICJ case aimed at addressing 'loss and damage.' Together, they discuss the vital importance of cultural resilience and the role of small island nations in the global climate fight.
24 snips
May 22, 2025 • 54min
When Business Is Political: Climate commitments in an age of backlash
Helen Clarkson, CEO of the Climate Group, leads efforts in promoting climate action globally. In this conversation, she addresses the challenges businesses face amid shifting political landscapes in the US, particularly regarding climate commitments. Clarkson discusses the significance of Climate Week NYC and how it can serve as a beacon for action during these turbulent times. The hosts also tackle a groundbreaking climate liability case that could reshape accountability for major emitters, highlighting the critical role of non-state actors in driving progress.
21 snips
May 15, 2025 • 45min
The Spanish Grid Goes Down: Are renewables really to blame?
Kingsmill Bond, an energy strategist at Ember, and José Manuel Entrecanales, CEO of Acciona, dive into the significant blackout that recently swept across Spain and Portugal. They explore whether renewable energy is to blame or if deeper issues lie within outdated infrastructures. The conversation addresses misconceptions about renewables' reliability and highlights the urgent need for grid modernization. They also discuss how modernized grids are crucial for a successful energy transition and the encouraging prospects for renewable energy's future.
13 snips
May 8, 2025 • 53min
Technology vs Transition?: What Tony Blair gets right - and wrong - about net zero
The discussion tackles Tony Blair's controversial views on achieving net zero through technology rather than cutting consumption. It debates the viability of carbon capture and removal as alternatives to rapid fossil fuel phaseout. The hosts urge reframing climate narratives to emphasize systemic solutions over individual sacrifices and highlight the need for engaging the public positively. They also emphasize the importance of technological innovations and effective communication in driving meaningful climate action.
