A Climate Change with Matt Matern

204: Why Trump’s Wind Power Myths Are Hurting His Supporters the Most with Rob Verchick

In the fight against clean energy, who really wins? Trump supporters may think it’s them, but this episode of A Climate Change reveals another story altogether. In this eye-opening conversation with Rob Verchick, environmental law professor and former EPA deputy administrator, we explore critical developments in ocean conservation, renewable energy challenges, and climate resilience. From Louisiana's coastal restoration efforts to the political dynamics affecting offshore wind development, Rob shares invaluable insights on navigating environmental progress despite federal resistance. Tune in for a pragmatic look at both the obstacles and the opportunities in climate action today and gain a deeper understanding of how local and state initiatives can advance environmental protection even when federal support wavers.The United States finds itself divided in more ways than one, but this episode reminds us to stop and ask the question: what are we actually fighting for? Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.Watch the full conversation: https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1Rob Verchick Bio:Rob Verchick is a Professor at Loyola Law School in New Orleans, where he teaches environmental law and champions climate resilience initiatives. As a former Deputy Associate Administrator for the EPA during the Obama administration, he brings extensive experience in environmental policy and regulation. His expertise spans environmental law, climate adaptation, and marine conservation, having recently participated in the United Nations Ocean Conference in France. He has also authored "Octopus in the Parking Garage" and is currently working on a new book focused on oceans, coasts, and climate resilience. His practical experience in both policy-making and academic research makes him a leading voice in climate resilience and environmental protection strategies.Episode ResourcesRob Verchick on LinkedIn Rob Verchick WebsiteRob’s Book “Octopus in the Parking Garage”: https://www.amazon.in/Octopus-Parking-Garage-Climate-Resilience/dp/B0BCZB17HZ Matt Matern on LinkedInA Climate Change on AppleA Climate Change on SpotifyA Climate Change on YouTubeMore About A Climate Change with Matt MaternA Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.Curated List of EpisodesIf you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:Simulating the Future: How Climate Models Shape Policy Decisions with Andrew Jones [Link]How Personal Change Sparks Global Impact: Joshua Spodek's Sustainability Secrets [Link]Bill McKibben on Renewable Energy, Political Battles & Hope for the Planet [Link]A Climate Change With Matt Matern is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.soCheck out our most downloaded episodes:165: Decarbonizing the Grid with Rob Gramlich164: Davide Faranda Shares How We Can Link Fossil Fuels to Extreme Weather172: Systemic Solutions for a Sustainable Future: Kristina Dahl’s Climate Vision

203: How Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill is The Undoing of Climate Progress

The Trump administration's "One Big Beautiful Bill" threatens to reverse years of clean energy progress and environmental protections, raising urgent concerns about climate policy and public health.In this special livestream episode of Climate Change with Matt Mattern, host Matt brings together a powerhouse panel including Dr. Gernot Wagner (Climate Economist, Columbia Business School), Lucero Marquez (Center for American Progress), and Dan Gearino (InsideClimate News) to analyze the implications of this controversial climate policy shift.What You'll Learn:- Why the bill's rollback of renewable energy incentives could jeopardize 2,500 wind and solar projects equivalent to 383 nuclear reactors- How the legislation threatens rural economies, with farmers potentially losing up to $350,000 in wind turbine revenue over 10 years- Why public health costs from increased pollution could reverse decades of clean air progress, including the prevention of 200,000 deaths annually- How the Endangerment Finding rollback threatens EPA's authority to regulate greenhouse gases- The economic case for energy efficiency and why newer technologies like LED lighting deliver superior results- How public mobilization and grassroots organizing successfully prevented public land sell-offs and could help combat future policy reversalsAbout the Guest(s):Dr. Gernot Wagner is a climate economist at Columbia Business School and Faculty Director of the Climate Knowledge Initiative. He has authored six books, including "Climate Shock" and "Geoengineering: The Gamble," focusing on climate risks, technologies, and policies. His research expertise in climate economics and policy provides valuable insights on the economic implications of climate legislation and energy transition.Lucero Marquez serves as Associate Director of Federal Climate Policy at the Center for American Progress. With a background in meteorology, she specializes in renewable energy development, building decarbonization, and environmental justice at the national level. Her expertise bridges the technical aspects of climate science with policy implementation and environmental equity concerns.Dan Gearino is an award-winning reporter at InsideClimate News covering the business and politics of clean energy. His reporting expertise focuses on connecting policy decisions in Washington to their real-world impacts on renewable energy development, particularly in states like Iowa, where wind energy has become an essential part of the power grid and rural economy.Episode ResourcesDr. Gernot Wagner on LinkedInLucero Marquez on LinkedInDan Gearino on LinkedInOne Big Beautiful Bill ActArticles:Republicans who backed Trump’s anti-environment bill have accepted over $105m from big oilAssessing the Energy Impacts of the One Big Beautiful Bill ActChart: Trump’s ‘big beautiful bill’ blows US emissions goal by 7bn tonnesMatt Matern on LinkedInA Climate Change on AppleA Climate Change on SpotifyA Climate Change on YouTubeMore About A Climate Change with Matt MaternA Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.Curated List of EpisodesIf you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:Simulating the Future: How Climate Models Shape Policy Decisions with Andrew Jones [Link]How Personal Change Sparks Global Impact: Joshua Spodek's Sustainability Secrets [Link]Bill McKibben on Renewable Energy, Political Battles & Hope for the Planet [Link]A Climate Change With Matt Matern is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.soCheck out our most downloaded episodes:165: Decarbonizing the Grid with Rob Gramlich164: Davide Faranda Shares How We Can Link Fossil Fuels to Extreme Weather172: Systemic Solutions for a Sustainable Future: Kristina Dahl’s Climate Vision

202: Global Warming Solutions Need Multiple Winners with Beth Sawin

We’ve all heard the phrase “two birds, one stone,” and most of us love it. Now, what if this approach could be applied to large-scale climate action?In the latest episode of A Climate Change, we sit down with Beth Sawin - a trailblazing climate activist, a PhD in Biology from MIT and Founder and Director of the Multisolving Institute - to talk about the 360-degree approach to environmentalism the world needs today. Tune in to understand how addressing climate change through strategic actions can simultaneously solve multiple societal challenges, from public health to economic vitality. Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.Watch the full conversation: https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1Dr.Beth Sawin Bio:Beth Sawin is a prominent systems thinker, author, and climate solutions expert with a PhD in biology from MIT. As the Founder and Director of the Multisolving Institute and creator of Climate Interactive, she brings a unique perspective to addressing complex environmental challenges. Her book “Multisolving: Creating System Change in a Fractured World” introduces an innovative approach to tackling multiple societal challenges simultaneously through integrated solutions. More About The Multisolving Institute:The Multisolving Institute helps people overcome barriers to working across sectors for shared solutions. “Multisolving” refers to the approach of addressing multiple challenges - from climate and health to equity and economy - with a single policy or investment. Think walkable cities that cut emissions, boost health, and support local business. While the benefits are wide-reaching, they understand that the path isn’t always simple. Backed by research, tools, and stories that make multisolving more accessible, effective, and actionable, the Multisolving Institute equips changemakers to see the bigger picture and act on it.Episode ResourcesBeth Sawin on LinkedIn Multisolving Institute WebsiteBeth’s Book “Multisolving: Creating System Change in a Fractured World”: https://www.amazon.com/Multisolving-Creating-Systems-Change-Fractured/dp/1642833770 Climate Interactive WebsiteMatt Matern on LinkedInA Climate Change on AppleA Climate Change on SpotifyA Climate Change on YouTubeMore About A Climate Change with Matt MaternA Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.Curated List of EpisodesIf you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:Simulating the Future: How Climate Models Shape Policy Decisions with Andrew Jones [Link]How Personal Change Sparks Global Impact: Joshua Spodek's Sustainability Secrets [Link]Bill McKibben on Renewable Energy, Political Battles & Hope for the Planet [Link]A Climate Change With Matt Matern is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.soCheck out our most downloaded episodes:165: Decarbonizing the Grid with Rob Gramlich164: Davide Faranda Shares How We Can Link Fossil Fuels to Extreme Weather172: Systemic Solutions for a Sustainable Future: Kristina Dahl’s Climate Vision

201: Patricia Lee on Embedding Sustainability in Higher Education

Global environmental change begins with a university that thoroughly understands sustainability. In this episode of A Climate Change, we speak with Patricia Lee, Sustainability Project Officer at Griffith University in Australia. Patricia shares how Griffith became a global leader in sustainability through cross-campus collaboration, Indigenous knowledge integration, and a deep commitment to education. From waste management to climate action plans, Patricia highlights the power of embedding sustainability into institutional culture and values, and the role of education in shaping a more just and resilient future.Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn moreSubscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.Watch the full conversation: https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1Patricia Lee Bio:Patricia serves as the Sustainability Project Officer at Griffith University in Australia, where she specializes in implementing comprehensive sustainability initiatives across academic and operational sectors. With a background in environmental education and sustainability, she has played a pivotal role in helping Griffith University achieve remarkable recognition as the #2 nationally and #4 globally in sustainability rankings. Patricia brings valuable international perspective to sustainability education, having transitioned from Mexico to Australia through a scholarship program before joining Griffith's sustainability team.In her role, Patricia coordinates projects that deliver on Griffith's sustainable strategy, focusing on embedding sustainability principles throughout the university's curriculum, culture, and operations. Her work spans multiple disciplines, from academic engagement to operational initiatives, contributing to Griffith's ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2029. Under her leadership, the university has developed innovative programs like "Yarning for Sustainability," which integrates indigenous knowledge with modern sustainability practices, and has established a thriving sustainability community of practice with over 100 members.Episode ResourcesPatricia Lee on LinkedInMatt Matern on LinkedInA Climate Change on AppleA Climate Change on SpotifyA Climate Change on YouTubeMore About A Climate Change with Matt MaternA Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.Curated List of EpisodesIf you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:Simulating the Future: How Climate Models Shape Policy Decisions with Andrew Jones [Link]How Personal Change Sparks Global Impact: Joshua Spodek's Sustainability Secrets [Link]Bill McKibben on Renewable Energy, Political Battles & Hope for the Planet [Link]A Climate Change With Matt Matern is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.soCheck out our most downloaded episodes:165: Decarbonizing the Grid with Rob Gramlich164: Davide Faranda Shares How We Can Link Fossil Fuels to Extreme Weather172: Systemic Solutions for a Sustainable Future: Kristina Dahl’s Climate Vision

200: CELEBRATING 200 EPISODES: A Look Back

We made it to Episode 200! Today, we look back at four and a half years of meaningful conversations with some of the brightest minds in the climate movement - scientists, policymakers, activists, and visionaries who are shaping our future. We reflect on the challenges we've explored, the progress we've witnessed, and the urgent work still ahead. Through these inspiring guests, we've learned that individual choices and collective action both matter. This episode celebrates their insight and passion, and reaffirms our commitment to staying engaged, informed, and hopeful in the fight for our planet.Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.Watch the full conversation: https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1Episode ResourcesIf you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Call or text 988 visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support 24/7.Marianne Williamson on FacebookDr. Katherine Hayhoe on LinkedInPaul Watson’s Website Bill McKibben on X Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant on LinkedInPaul Hawken on LinkedInMichael E Mann on LSE’s WebsiteBen Allen on LinkedInGavin Schmidt on XCharlie J Gardner on LinkedInSteve Fambro on LinkedInEsteban Gast on LinkedInMatt Matern on LinkedInA Climate Change on AppleA Climate Change on SpotifyA Climate Change on YouTubeMore About A Climate Change with Matt MaternA Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.Curated List of EpisodesIf you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:Simulating the Future: How Climate Models Shape Policy Decisions with Andrew Jones [Link]How Personal Change Sparks Global Impact: Joshua Spodek's Sustainability Secrets [Link]Bill McKibben on Renewable Energy, Political Battles & Hope for the Planet [Link]A Climate Change With Matt Matern is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.soCheck out our most downloaded episodes:165: Decarbonizing the Grid with Rob Gramlich164: Davide Faranda Shares How We Can Link Fossil Fuels to Extreme Weather172: Systemic Solutions for a Sustainable Future: Kristina Dahl’s Climate Vision