From Ancient Oceans to Future Solutions: Maria Luisa Sanchez Montes on Climate, Curiosity, and Courage

What can ancient rocks teach us about the climate future we're hurtling toward? In this inspiring episode, I speak with Dr. Maria Luisa Sanchez Montes, climate scientist, explorer, and creative problem-solver. Marisa takes us deep into Earth’s history through ocean sediments and plant lipids, showing how our current emissions mirror climates not seen for millions of years. But her story doesn’t stop in the lab. With a career that spans academic excellence, IPCC contributions, and innovative microbial research, Marisa has now turned her focus toward tangible, people-powered solutions to reimagining sustainable clothing. She shares a rich and emotional journey of scientific discovery, disillusionment, courage, and a hopeful pivot toward creativity and impact. Together, we explore: * What plant molecules in rocks reveal about Earth's deep past * How her climate research informed the latest IPCC report * The emotional toll of working on the climate crisis * Why Marisa left academia to create real-world solutions * Her vision of a more loving, just, and sustainable future in 2075 In this episode, we talk about stones, microbes, fashion, and what it means to shape a career guided by wonder—and impact. “Rocks and trees are like books, and I wanted to read them all to understand this earth I am living on.” 💬 Marisa is with us for a live Q&A hour here on the chat! Send your question in before or login live to pick her brain on anything about the life of a climate scientist, oceans, lipids to how to come up with your own startup idea. Chat with Marisa on the 4th of August at 10 am CEST 👇🏼 What do you want to ask Marisa? 👉 Connect with Marisa * Marisa’s impressive climate research on Google Scholar * Her sustainable fashion startup * Connect with Marisa on LinkedIn * Connect via email: [email protected] 🙋 Want to connect with me or share feedback? * Email: [email protected] * Website: claudiageratz.com * LinkedIn: @claudiageratz 📍 Nominate a guest for the podcast: Submit your idea here 🎵 Music by Alberto Gariglio Instagram | YouTube This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit positiveclimatecareers.substack.com