A Climate Change with Matt Matern

208: The Hidden Secrets Behind Profit-Driven Climate Action with Joel Makower

There’s a spectrum of ways to fight against climate change and smart, intentional business lies right in the middle of that spectrum. Joel Makower, Chairman of Trellis Group and a pioneering figure in green business practices takes us behind the scenes of the economics of climate action in this revealing episode of A Climate Change. Tune in for an exploration of the intersection of business innovation and environmental sustainability - from Pentagon-inspired sustainability strategies to corporate environmental initiatives worth $16 trillion in economic power. Joel’s expertise shines a light on the New Age of American environmentalism and why walkable communities, regenerative agriculture, and resource productivity aren't just environmental solutions - they're crucial elements of America's economic resilience and security in an increasingly unstable world.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=1Joel Makower Bio:Joel Makower is the Chairman and Co-founder of Trellis Group and a pioneering voice in sustainable business practices since 1991. Known as "the guru of green business practices" by the Associated Press, Joel has been instrumental in shaping corporate sustainability strategies for over three decades. He is the co-author of "The New Grand Strategy: Restoring America's Prosperity, Security and Sustainability in the 21st Century," drawing from Pentagon initiatives, and has gone on to write a dozen books on environmental business practices.Starting with the Green Business Letter newsletter in 1991, Joel built what would become a global platform connecting sustainability professionals from major corporations representing over $16 trillion in combined revenue. Through Trellis Group, he orchestrates influential conferences and knowledge-sharing networks that have helped launch significant corporate sustainability initiatives. Joel's expertise in connecting business profitability with environmental stewardship has made him a leading voice in demonstrating how sustainability initiatives drive both corporate success and environmental progress. Episode ResourcesJoel Makower on LinkedIn Joel’s WebsiteThe Trellis Group WebsiteMatt Matern on LinkedInA Climate Change on AppleA Climate Change on SpotifyA Climate Change on YouTubeA 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 Weather192: Paasha Mahdavi Breaks Down the Power Politics Behind Climate Change

207: A Documentarian’s Duty to Climate Action with Olga Loginova

Film and writing have forever inspired change, pushing the masses into action. This applies to climate action, too. In this episode of A Climate Change, we speak with documentarian Olga Loginova about her groundbreaking work chronicling environmental and social justice issues. Listen in for a deep dive into her powerful three-part series on America's first federally-funded climate relocation project and her upcoming film on medicinal plant deforestation in Brazil. Through the conversation, Olga shares intimate insights into how documentary storytelling can illuminate critical environmental challenges. Through stories of indigenous communities, traditional knowledge, and environmental defenders, she shines a light on the intersection of climate change, cultural preservation, and the power of visual narrative to drive meaningful change. As this episode reminds us, protecting traditional ecological wisdom may be key to addressing our modern environmental crisis.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=1Olga Loginova Bio:Olga Loginova is an accomplished environmental journalist and documentary filmmaker, known for her investigative work on climate change and environmental justice. Her recent work includes "Leaving the Island," a three-part documentary series examining the first federally-funded climate relocation project in the US at Isle de Jean Charles, Louisiana. She is also in post-production on "Sacred Leaves," a documentary investigating deforestation of medicinal trees in Brazil's Amazon rainforest. Her work combines rigorous investigative journalism with compelling storytelling to illuminate pressing environmental challenges. Her commitment to highlighting stories of climate displacement and environmental preservation, particularly through the lens of affected communities, has earned support from prestigious organizations, including Type Investigations and public radio networks.Episode ResourcesOlga Loginova on LinkedIn Olga’s WebsiteOlga’s Documentary, ‘Leaving The Island’: https://www.audiation.fm/leaving-the-island 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 Weather192: Paasha Mahdavi Breaks Down the Power Politics Behind Climate Change

206: Everything We Can Learn From Indigenous Communities About Climate Action with James Fountain

When it comes to climate action, the West’s solutions are falling short by a mile; thousands of miles. It’s indigenous communities that have the knowledge to unlock the secret to successful climate action. In the latest episode of A Climate Change, we unpack all there is to learn from these communities, courtesy of James Fountain, an ESG expert, cultural geographer, and award-winning author of ‘Our Changing World’. Tune in as he reveals how indigenous wisdom and cultural geography offer vital insights into addressing climate change and environmental sustainability on both local and global scales. Unsurprisingly, their perspectives can inform modern approaches to environmental challenges.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=1James Fountain Bio:James Fountain is an expert in ESG compliance and decarbonization, formerly serving as Vice President of Sustainability, Strategy and ESG Integration at BDO USA. A distinguished cultural geographer and fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, American Association of Geographers, and The Explorer's Club, Fountain brings unique insights from his extensive fieldwork with indigenous communities worldwide. He is the award-winning author of the "Our Changing World" series and creator of the documentary "The End of the Road," focusing on environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. His work spans from mapping with National Geographic and the EPA to humanitarian efforts with the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, bringing a comprehensive understanding of climate change's impact on remote communities. Currently, Fountain is working on sustainable development initiatives in Bhutan, applying his expertise in environmental policy, cultural geography, and sustainable business practices to create lasting positive change.Episode ResourcesJames Fountain on LinkedIn James Fountain WebsiteJames’ Book, “Our Changing World”: https://www.amazon.in/Our-Changing-World-Sustainable-Interconnected/dp/1963443160 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 Weather192: Paasha Mahdavi Breaks Down the Power Politics Behind Climate Change

205: Trump vs. EPA’s Endangerment Finding

In this episode of A Climate Change with Matt Matern, a panel of leading climate attorneys and advocates unpacks the Trump administration’s attempt to repeal the EPA’s Endangerment Finding - the legal cornerstone of federal climate regulation. They explain its scientific and legal foundations, the risks to public health, the economy, and U.S. climate leadership if overturned, and the importance of public engagement in defending it. The discussion highlights legal battles ahead, grassroots action, and why this fight shapes America’s climate 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 more.Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.Watch the full conversation: https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1Episode ResourcesEnvironmental Defense Fund (EDF) - Endangerment Finding info & comment portalNatural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) - Action alert to submit comments to EPAEarthjusticeSierra ClubGuests: Meredith Hankins, Federal Climate Legal Director at NRDC (she/they)Meredith Hankins works to reduce pollution from the power and industrial sectors, using litigation and administrative advocacy to develop, protect, and enforce strong federal standards. Hankins has more than a decade of experience working with the Clean Air Act, beginning as a refinery permitting engineer at the South Coast Air Quality Management District and later as a deputy attorney general representing the state of California in challenges to Trump-era environmental rollbacks.Peter Zalzal, Distinguished Counsel and Associate Vice President, Clean Air Strategies at Environmental Defense Fund (he/him)As a member of EDF’s Domestic Climate and Air legal team, Peter Zalzal works to secure clean air and support climate change mitigation through policy initiatives and strategic litigation. Peter works with businesses, public health groups, states, environmental groups and other allies to advocate and defend efficient policies to curb emissions that are destabilizing the climate and harming human health.Marvin Brown, Senior Attorney at Earthjustice (he/him)Marvin C. Brown IV is a senior attorney at Earthjustice, specializing in environmental and civil rights law. He previously clerked for Chief Judge R. Guy Cole, Jr. on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and practiced at firms including Baker&Hostetler and The Chandra Law Firm. A graduate of Yale Law School, Brown also studied at Ohio State University and was a Fox Fellow at the University of Cape Town. His work has spanned issues from police brutality and employment discrimination to environmental justice.Patrick Drupp, Director of Climate Policy at Sierra Club (he/him)Patrick works at the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots environmental organization. He primarily works to advance policy in Congress and the Administration (e.g., Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Energy) to rapidly deploy clean energy, clean up air pollution, and fight climate change.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 Weather192: Paasha Mahdavi Breaks Down the Power Politics Behind Climate Change

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 Weather192: Paasha Mahdavi Breaks Down the Power Politics Behind Climate Change