

Drilled
Critical Frequency
A true-crime podcast about climate change. Reported and hosted by a team of investigative climate journalists, Drilled examines the various obstacles that have kept the world from adequately responding to climate change.
Episodes
Mentioned books

11 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 8min
Welcome to the World of Obstruction
Join Timmons Roberts, a climate expert from Brown University, Jennifer Jacquet from the University of Miami, Rio de Janeiro's Carlos Milani, and Australian National University’s Christian Downie as they dissect the deliberate political obstruction of climate action. They unveil the tactics of industries like fossil fuels and agriculture that fuel the crisis, while advocating for urgent reforms. Explore the often-hidden influences of think tanks and PR firms that muddy public understanding and discuss how to effectively counteract this obstruction through law and policy.

Sep 12, 2025 • 56min
Drilling Deep: The Golden Age of Oil-Funded Influence, with Casey Michel
In this engaging discussion, Casey Michel, a keen observer of political corruption and author of *Foreign Agents*, joins Adam Lowenstein, a reporter specializing in climate and democracy. They delve into the staggering levels of corruption during the second Trump administration and how foreign influence has eroded U.S. governance. The conversation also touches on the historical parallels in corporate ethics and lobbying tactics, revealing the normalization of questionable dealings and the impact on democracy and transparency today.

11 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 34min
The "Carbon Dominance" Strategy Driving Trump's Anti-Renewables Spree
In this engaging discussion, political economist Mark Blyth, a Brown University professor focused on climate change politics, unpacks the notion of 'carbon dominance.' He critiques the U.S. approach to renewable energy, contrasting it with China's innovative strategies. Blyth highlights how right-wing populism influences public sentiment against wind power while exposing the political battles over climate policies. The conversation also delves into global trends, illustrating how American populism shapes energy dynamics worldwide.

15 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 54min
Carbon Bros, Ep 4: Integration
Colin Davis, a dynamic fitness coach and former wrestler, teams up with Abdul El-Sayed, a political commentator and former gubernatorial candidate, to tackle the role of men in the climate movement. They explore how to integrate new ideas of masculinity into climate advocacy. The duo critiques traditional male societal constructs that prioritize job security over environmental concerns. They also discuss the need for a caring masculinity that inspires compassion and proactive engagement in addressing climate challenges.

9 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 19min
Why Is the Fossil Fuel Industry Funding Anti-Trans Politics?
Vivian Taylor, a climate policy expert and dedicated transgender rights activist, reveals the shocking ties between fossil fuel billionaires and anti-trans campaigns. She discusses how divisive narratives distract from critical climate issues, highlighting the overlap between anti-trans and anti-climate movements. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for marginalized communities to unite against social division and environmental degradation, advocating for a more inclusive approach to tackle these pressing injustices.

Aug 19, 2025 • 35min
S12, Ep6 | The SLAPP Heard 'Round the World
A landmark verdict doubles damages in a controversial trial over the Dakota Access Pipeline, raising alarms for Indigenous rights and climate activism. Energy Transfer claims a victory for free speech, while the verdict highlights a troubling increase in corporate rights over individual freedoms. The courtroom drama reveals deep divides within the community and the human toll of the oil boom, as local residents grapple with health crises. The emotional aftermath underscores the enduring fight for environmental justice and the legacy of movements like Standing Rock.

22 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 49min
Carbon Bros, Ep 3: Climate Hysteria, Doomers, and Boy Math Solutions
This discussion humorously critiques climate activism, challenging mainstream narratives and addressing gendered perceptions. It examines the potential pitfalls of carbon capture tied to fossil fuel interests and highlights women's vital roles in environmental justice. The podcast explores the tension between eco-modernism and genuine climate action, while also critiquing the apocalyptic mindset of tech elites. Ultimately, it argues for a multi-faceted approach that includes diverse perspectives in the climate dialogue.

Aug 14, 2025 • 42min
S12, Ep5: Sacred Sites
Cody Hall, a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, passionately shares insights from his experience fighting against the desecration of sacred sites by Energy Transfer. He discusses the historical context of environmental racism and the need for true collaboration with Indigenous communities. Hall highlights the intense confrontations during the anti-pipeline protests and emphasizes tribal sovereignty amid ongoing legal battles. His reflections remind us of the cultural significance of these lands and the importance of respecting Indigenous practices.

15 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 46min
Carbon Bros, Ep 2: Energy Dominance
Cara Daggett, a Virginia Tech political scientist and creator of 'petromasculinity,' dives into how energy dominance reflects gender dynamics in America. She discusses the transition from revering nature to exploiting resources, linking fossil fuels to masculinity and power. The conversation explores the historical roots of land ownership ideologies and critiques contemporary attitudes towards climate activism. Daggett highlights how traditional views on masculinity intertwine with climate denial, revealing psychological factors behind resistance to environmental policies.

7 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 32min
Carbon Bros, Ep 1: The Testosterone Pipeline
This discussion dives into the surprising overlap between masculinity and climate denial, highlighting how figures like Andrew Tate and Joe Rogan propagate skepticism in their communities. The podcast examines how social media algorithms amplify toxic masculinity while shaping opinions on environmental issues. It also reveals the historical manipulation of climate narratives by the fossil fuel industry. Sociological factors influencing conservative men’s denial of climate change are unpacked, along with the challenges faced by younger generations in reconciling these views with climate urgency.