Commonwealth Club of California Podcast

Davi Neustein, a sustainability consultant, sheds light on Brazil's hosting choices for COP30 and innovative bioeconomy strategies. Ilana Seid, representing Palau, passionately discusses the urgent climate impacts on small island nations and their advocacy for stronger climate action. Deborah Sanchez emphasizes the importance of funding models that support Indigenous and local communities, sharing success stories that enhance food security and livelihoods. Together, they highlight the critical role of local voices in shaping effective climate solutions.

Justice Anthony Kennedy, a retired Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, delves into his influential three-decade tenure on the bench. He shares how Western values shaped his views on dignity and liberty and emphasizes the importance of separating personal beliefs from judicial duty. Kennedy discusses landmark rulings on abortion, same-sex marriage, and free speech, revealing how social science informed his opinions. He also warns against the dangers of polarized discourse and stresses the need for civility in democracy, reminding listeners of the profound impact of the Constitution.

In a compelling discussion, journalist Julia Ioffe, author of "Motherland: A Feminist History of Modern Russia," explores the evolution of women's roles in Russia from the revolutionary era to today. She reveals how Soviet ideals transformed into a constricted view of femininity and motherhood, reflecting on her family's history and the loss of professional prestige amongst women. Ioffe addresses the implications of postwar policies on familial structures and masculinity, while challenging Western perceptions of feminism, asserting its rich roots in Russian history.

Kenneth P. Vogel, an investigative reporter for The New York Times and author of "Devil's Advocates," dives into the shadowy realm of foreign lobbying. He reveals how powerful Americans profit by working with corrupt foreign interests, tracing the origins of this industry back to Nazi influence. Vogel shares tales of figures like Robert Stryk and Rudy Giuliani, showcasing their controversial dealings. He also explores how lobbying can shape U.S. policy, exposing the blurred lines between influence and outcome in a world fueled by money and connections.

In a riveting discussion, Jimmy Wales, the visionary founder of Wikipedia, delves into building trust amidst an era of misinformation. He shares insights from his book, The Seven Rules of Trust, emphasizing that a clear purpose drives Wikipedia's credibility. Wales addresses challenges in maintaining neutrality and managing edit wars while tackling the erosion of trust in institutions. He reveals how community integrity is essential for Wikipedia’s growth and contrasts it with the limitations of AI, promoting a future where human contributions nourish trust on the open web.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Peter Schwartzstein, an environmental journalist, dives into the intricate ties between climate stress and violence, highlighting how governance can make or break communities facing these challenges. Fareed Mahameed shares his dedication to climate justice, illustrating efforts to support Palestinian and Bedouin communities with vital resources and infrastructure. Liana Berlin-Fischler discusses innovative clean-tech solutions like off-grid wastewater treatment, emphasizing how environmental cooperation can bridge divides and foster peace in conflict zones.

Joyce Vance, former U.S. Attorney and current legal analyst, dives into the challenges facing American democracy. She explores the importance of citizen engagement and the historical context of current political crises. Vance discusses the erosion of democratic norms and emphasizes resilience in activism without burnout. She addresses the dangers of disengagement and the need for a renewed civic culture, urging listeners to take small actions to preserve democracy. Her insights offer hope and a clear call to action in these tumultuous times.

Philip Taubman, a senior fellow at Stanford, and William Taubman, a Pulitzer-winning biographer, delve into the life of Robert McNamara, a key player in U.S. military history. They discuss newly uncovered letters from Jacqueline Kennedy that reveal McNamara's personal struggles. Their exploration covers McNamara's evolution from a war advocate to someone questioning the Vietnam War, alongside insights from a private diary. The brothers also reflect on McNamara's duality: his loyalty, ambition, and the haunting guilt from his decisions, painting a portrait of a man deeply at odds with himself.

Brent Efron, a former EPA policy official, shares his journey navigating the challenges of climate advocacy amidst political backlash. Rachel Rothschild, a legal scholar, discusses the implications of 'superfund' laws targeting polluters while facing personal threats and scrutiny over her work. J. Timmons Roberts reveals how organized opposition to climate initiatives, especially offshore wind, is fueled by misinformation from powerful networks. Together, they shed light on the risks faced by climate professionals striving for impactful change in a hostile environment.

In this discussion, Janti Soeripto, President and CEO of Save the Children U.S., Fred Koehner, Managing Director at DAF Giving 360, and Caitlin Tulloch, Co-founder of Project Resource Mobilization, delve into the pressing need for innovation in humanitarian finance. They explore strategies like Save the Children's private-first fundraising pivot and emphasize the importance of partnerships for cash assistance. The conversation also highlights the effectiveness of donor-advised funds and the need for evidence-based approaches to maximize philanthropic impact.