34: Climate Change Should Be Funnier. Seriously.

Episode Intro:The topic we’re exploring in this episode is climate change and humor. Can climate change be funny? To explore this question, I had the chance to speak with Sara Yeo, a professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Utah, who researches science communication, along with Julia St. Andre, currently a senior studying science communication. For her honors thesis Julia researched the effects of humorous climate change communication – specifically how humor and emotions such as grief and anxiety associated with climate change motivate young adults to act.Interview Summary:This episode of Talking Climate examines how humor can be used to communicate climate change more effectively. Through clips from well-known comedians and an in-depth discussion with University of Utah Professor of Communication Sara Yeo and student Julia St. Andre, the conversation explores whether comedy can make a serious issue more engaging without undermining its importance. The guests discuss audience awareness, different types of humor, and research showing that non-aggressive, relatable humor can increase hope, reduce burnout, and motivate action—especially among younger audiences facing climate anxiety.Episode webpage:wilkescenter.utah.edu/podcast/34-climate-change-should-be-funnier