In this engaging discussion, best-selling author Sarah Wilson dives deep into the concept of societal collapse and what we can do about it. With a rich background in research and a keen focus on both Western and Indigenous theories, she critiques outdated linear thinking and the dangers of toxic masculinity. Sarah makes a compelling case for community resilience and the need for moral frameworks in times of crisis. She also re-evaluates climate activism, advocating for innovative economic models like degrowth to pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Brad Vanstone, co-founder of Willicroft, is a trailblazer in plant-based cheese, renowned for prioritizing ethical business practices. He discusses the tough choice to close Willicroft rather than compromise values for profit. Brad shares how he transformed his journey into a sustainable food venture, facing industry skepticism along the way. He highlights the need for businesses to align with environmental goals, the challenges posed by animal agriculture lobbying, and the importance of community and systemic change in fostering a more sustainable future.

Jean-Baptiste Fressoz, historian of science and technology and author of 'More and More', discusses the complexities surrounding energy transition. He argues that every new energy source increases overall consumption rather than replacing existing ones. Fressoz critiques the misconceptions surrounding decarbonization and the historical roots of the 'energy transition' concept, once a scientific term turned policy fantasy. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging systemic inequality in climate discussions and advocates for a more nuanced approach to sustainability.

In this discussion, Grace Blakeley, a political economist and author of "Vulture Capitalism," tackles the intertwining dynamics of states and markets. She critiques how the illusion of their opposition has stripped power from everyday people, leading to a collective loss of purpose. Grace explores historical class struggles and the erosion of unions, emphasizes the need for collective action against neoliberalism, and advocates for reinvigorating local economies as a pathway to resist capitalist oppression.

Our borders are changing.Russia wants Ukraine, China wants Taiwan, Israel wants Palestine, and Trump wants Greenland. We are in the beginning of an age of territorial expansion, as nations seek to shore up more resources, wealth and power by acquiring land. I’m joined by Michael Albertus, a Professor in Political Science at the University of Chicago, to discuss the history of land as an asset, and what a return to colonial and imperial policies of invasion will look like over the coming years.We also discuss local and national resistance around the world, delving into the universality of our desire to protect what we call home from extraction and exploitation. Mike reveals the land restitution policies in South Africa and I discuss my recent work with communities in Colombia who are holding off multinational mining companies from tearing up their land. To learn more, get a copy of Mike’s latest book, Land Power: Who Has It, Who Doesn’t, and How That Determines the Fate of Societies.Planet: Critical is 100% independent and community-powered. If you value it, and have the means, become a paid subscriber today. Get full access to Planet: Critical at www.planetcritical.com/subscribe

Kenny Torrella, a senior reporter at Vox, dives deep into the powerful grip of the animal agriculture industry on environmental policies. He reveals how a few multinational companies prioritize profit over sustainability, contributing to air and water pollution. Discover the political lobbying that undermines plant-based food sectors and the escalating health hazards tied to the American diet. Despite these challenges, Torrella highlights a hopeful avenue for change, advocating for a bipartisan movement towards sustainable practices.

Sailesh Rao, Executive Director of Climate Healers and a climate activist, argues that animal agriculture could be responsible for 87% of climate change. He critiques current emission accounting methods that overlook this major contributor. The conversation delves into the ethical dilemmas of meat consumption, the economic implications of animal agriculture, and how these issues intersect with social injustices, such as prison labor. Rao advocates for a swift shift to plant-based diets as a powerful strategy for climate healing.

In this discussion, Ed Zitron, CEO of Easy PR and sharp critic of Silicon Valley, takes a hard look at the depth of A.I's shortcomings and the false illusions surrounding it. He reveals how tech giants, now led by profit-hungry capitalists, are grappling for relevance in a landscape starved of genuine innovation. Ed outlines the dangerous trend of 'enshittification' in the industry and critiques the glorified images of Silicon Valley CEOs while diving into the chaos of digital interactions and the moral void in big tech's pursuit of unchecked growth.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Craig Slee, a disabled writer and theorist, dives into the intricate relationships between our bodies, nature, and society. He explores the interconnectedness of all life forms and how our perceptions shape reality. Topics include the nuances of crises, especially for those with disabilities, and a critical look at bodily autonomy in a capitalist framework. Slee advocates for collective resilience and the importance of mindful communication, prompting us to rethink our existence and relationships with the world around us.

Peter Schwartzstein, an environmental journalist and author of "The Heat and the Fury," dives into the alarming correlation between climate change and violence. He discusses how vulnerable communities become hotspots for violence due to climate-induced stresses and governance failures. Schwartzstein also explores the psychological impact of environmental degradation, introducing the term 'solastalgia.' He warns that feelings of abandonment might provoke unrest even in stable democracies, as mental health and identity are increasingly tied to our changing planet.