In Our Backyard Podcast

In this episode, we’re talking about the Gulf of Mexico, its incredible ecosystems, the communities that depend on it, and the environmental challenges it has faced for generations.I talk with Alex Horn, Communications Director for Healthy Gulf, an organization that has been working for decades to protect the Gulf and the communities connected to it. We’ll talk about how Healthy Gulf got started, what exactly we mean when we talk about “the Gulf,” and why this waterbody is so important to wildlife, our climate, our economy, and the people who call the Gulf Coast home.We’ll also look at the history of pollution and environmental threats in the region, the ongoing impacts of offshore oil and gas development, and the work Healthy Gulf is doing today to hold industries accountable and protect these ecosystems. We also talk about the recent proposal involving the potential storage of radioactive nuclear waste beneath the Gulf, and what Healthy Gulf is doing in response.https://healthygulf.org/ ttps://www.nola.com/news/business/louisiana-gulf-nuclear-waste-storage-plan/article_6c2ae372-82a8-4855-b430-c45a3822a30f.html?utm_campaign=trueanthem&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook

Today we're talking about a project that has sparked years of debate over energy, environmental protection, and the future of rural communities. Our guest is Bruce Coffey with BREDL's Preserve Bent Mountain Chapter, an organization working to protect the Bent Mountain community from the Mountain Valley Pipeline.In this episode, Bruce shares what makes Bent Mountain such a special place, explains the route and purpose of the pipeline, and discusses why so many local residents have opposed the project. We explore the environmental and public health impacts, hear about the community's organizing efforts, get an update on where the project stands today, and ask the big question: Is this pipeline even necessary? Finally, we'll talk about how listeners can get involved and support the ongoing work to protect Bent Mountain. Contact and connect with Bruce: [email protected] https://archive.bredl.org/safeguard_americas_resources/200910_BREDL_Motion_to_Intervene_MVP_Extension_Request.html

On today's episode, we're joined by Jennifer Fee, Director of Communications & Marketing at Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper. Water is at the heart of Western New York, and protecting it is more important than ever. We talk about the organization's mission to protect and restore our local waterways, the health of the Buffalo Niagara watershed, the biggest challenges facing our rivers and lakes, and how the community has gotten involved in preserving these incredible natural resources.https://bnwaterkeeper.org/ 

We're comparing Sweden and the United States.If you've ever traveled to Sweden, you've probably noticed how clean the cities are, how much public transportation is used, and how seriously recycling is taken. On the other hand, the United States is home to some of the world's most important environmental research, groundbreaking clean-energy companies, and national parks that have inspired conservation efforts across the globe.So why do these two countries have such different environmental laws? Is Sweden really as environmentally friendly as its reputation suggests? And does the United States deserve its reputation for having weaker environmental protections?We look at the differences in systems, climate policy, energy production, pollution prevention, recycling and prevention, transportation, forests and nature, and the strengths of each country. As always, the answer is more complicated than it first appears.

Today’s guest is Jesse Demonbreun-Chapman, Executive Director and Riverkeeper for the Coosa River Basin Initiative, an organization dedicated to protecting one of the most biologically diverse river systems in North America.Stretching across the southeastern United States, the Coosa River Basin is home to an extraordinary range of freshwater species and ecosystems, many of which exist nowhere else on Earth. But this watershed also faces mounting threats from pollution, climate change, habitat destruction, rapid development, and biodiversity loss.In this conversation, we talk about what it means to protect a watershed, and how Indigenous history, environmental justice, and community action are deeply connected to conservation. We also talk about PFAS contamination, restoration efforts, and the idea that “we all live downstream.”Contact and connect: https://coosa.org/

Today’s guest is Kristina Peterson, a facilitator with the Lowlander Center, an organization supporting lowland and coastal communities facing climate change, land loss, displacement, and environmental injustice. A lowland is an area of land at a relatively low elevation, often located near coastlines, rivers, wetlands, or floodplains. Because these areas sit close to sea level, they are especially vulnerable to flooding, hurricanes, erosion, sea level rise, and other climate-related impacts.In this conversation, we discuss what makes lowland communities especially vulnerable, how climate change impacts culture and identity as much as infrastructure, and how community-led resilience projects are helping shape a more sustainable future.Contact and connect: https://www.lowlandercenter.org/

Welcome back to the show. Today we’re joined by Laura Iyer, founder of the Southern Sustainability Institute.Laura works with communities, businesses, and local leaders across the South to advance practical sustainability solutions through education, renewable energy, and community action. Today we’ll talk about what inspired her to launch the Institute, the future of sustainability in the South, and how local leadership can drive real change.From youth energy camps to leadership initiatives and community partnerships, her work is helping reshape how people think about sustainability, making it less about politics and more about resilience, opportunity, and collaborationContact and connect: https://southernsustainabilityinstitute.org/ 

Today we’re joined by Jackson Voss, Senior Government Affairs & Policy Advisor at the Alliance for Affordable Energy. He breaks down how energy systems are shaped, regulated, and experienced by everyday people.In this episode, we explore what the energy landscape looks like in New Orleans and across Louisiana, where climate vulnerability, aging infrastructure, and rising costs all intersect. We talk about what “affordable energy” really means, and what’s driving up costs for households. He also explains how regulators and policymakers make decisions and why those processes matter for your bills and reliability.We also touch on the future of energy policy, including climate goals, gaps in the current system, and how communities can stay engaged as we transition to cleaner, more equitable energy.

Today I’m joined by Sherrell Byrd who is the Founder and Executive Director at SOWEGA Rising. SOWEGA Rising, an organization doing powerful work to support Southwest Georgia and build a more resilient future. Southwest Georgia faces interconnected challenges like limited economic opportunity, healthcare access gaps, aging infrastructure, and the pressures of a largely agriculture-based economy. On top of that, increasing climate risks like extreme heat, flooding, and storms are making these inequalities worse.We’re talking about some really important work happening here, focusing on community, climate, and grassroots change.Contact and connect: https://www.sowegarising.org/

Today, we’re joined by Julie Bolthouse, Director of Land Use at the Piedmont Environmental Council. With Julie, we talk about the rapid expansion of data centers on the ground and how communities are responding.Virginia is often called the “data center capital of the world”. Data centers are reshaping landscapes, straining resources, and raising tough questions about growth and sustainability. In the episode we talk about the environmental concerns for energy, water, and air. As well as how to balance economic development with long-term environmental and human health protection. Piedmont Environmental Council:https://www.pecva.org/ Data Center article: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/climate/articles/10.3389/fclim.2026.1648912/full

Today we’re diving into the work happening on the ground in East Tennessee to support farmers, strengthen local food systems, and build healthier, more resilient communities.I’m joined by Andy Brown and Jillian Gorell from the Appalachian Resource Conservation & Development Council, an organization that’s been doing incredible work across the region, from farmland conservation and farmer training to expanding food access and supporting local infrastructure.They’re tackling some big challenges like land access, economic pressures on small farms, and the need for stronger regional food systems, while also creating real, tangible opportunities for farmers and communities to thrive.Contact and connect: https://arcd.org/

I’m joined by Bill Powers from Living Well Collaborative with Earth Island Institute, an organization based in Bolivia. Bill is an author, ecologist, and storyteller whose work bridges the personal and the environment in a way that feels hopeful.We’re here to talk about his book Ripple: An Intimate Exchange of Urgency and Hope Between An Ecologist Dad and His Daughter. Through a series of heartfelt letters, Bill weaves together reflections on the environmental crises we face with a deeply personal dialogue about love, responsibility, and the future.In this conversation, we’ll explore the core ideas behind Ripple, from the “Story of Separation” that shapes modern life, to what it really means to reintegrate with the natural world. We'll also talk about the balance between urgency and hope and how storytelling itself can become a powerful force for change.

Today’s guest is Judy Braus, Executive Director of the North American Association for Environmental Education or NAAEE for short.NAAEE’s mission is to use the power of education to advance environmental literacy and civic engagement so that people and communities can make informed decisions and take action toward a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable future. They equip educators, leaders, and learners with evidence-based tools and knowledge, to help people across ages and backgrounds understand environmental issues and take meaningful action.In this episode, we explore how the organization’s mission has evolved, how it bridges research and practice, and how it’s helping shape the future of environmental literacy in the face of climate change, social justice challenges, and digital transformation.Connect: https://naaee.org/

As the world transitions toward a clean energy future, there is more demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements. These minerals are essential for clean energy technologies, electric vehicles, batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and even our everyday electronics.But where do these minerals come from? Who controls their extraction? Who bears the environmental and human costs? How can we ensure that the transition to a low-carbon economy doesn’t repeat the extractive injustices of the past?Today, we’re joined by Will Jamil Wiltschko, who is with the California Trade Justice Coalition, a coalition of organizations working to ensure that Critical Mineral Agreements adhere to international climate, labor, and human rights standards.Contact and connect: https://criticalmineralsjustice.org/https://gtwaction.org/the-deadly-cost-of-cobalt-mining-in-the-congo/

I’m joined by Giulio Salerno from the Wild Oyster Project, an organization working to bring native oyster reefs back to San Francisco Bay and other West Coast estuaries. It’s about repairing ecosystems, building climate resilience, and bringing back something that once quietly held entire coastlines together.The Wild Oyster Project started with a simple but eye-opening realization: oysters used to be everywhere in San Francisco Bay. Huge native reefs filtered the water, stabilized shorelines, created habitat for fish and birds, and helped protect coastal communities from erosion and storms. Then, in what was actually a pretty short span of time, they were nearly wiped out. Overharvesting, pollution, dredging, and development erased more than 99% of the Bay’s native oyster populations. In this episode we talk about this history, the significance of oysters, restoration projects they have, collaborating with others, and more. Contact and connect: https://wildoysters.org/

Today we’re joined by Nadia Steinzor, Carnivore Conservation Director with Project Coyote, a national nonprofit working to promote coexistence between people and North America’s native carnivores. Nadia’s work sits at the intersection of science, policy, and community engagement, addressing a complex conservation challenge of how to live alongside predators in a rapidly changing landscape.When we talk about wild carnivores, we’re referring to species like coyotes, wolves, mountain lions, bobcats, foxes, and other native predators. These animals play a critical role as keystone species as they regulate prey populations, shape ecosystem structure, and even influence biodiversity and landscape health.Although, despite their ecological value, carnivores are often viewed as competitors or threats, particularly to livestock, game species, or human safety. Much of this is rooted in historical narratives, cultural fear, and political pressure rather than evidence.Contact and connect: https://projectcoyote.org/

In this episode, I speak with Yuka Nagashima, the Executive Director of Food Shift, she has spent her career working at the intersection of food, equity, and environmental impact. Food Shift is an organization dedicated to transforming our food system by addressing wasted food, redistributing surplus, and building more just, regenerative local food economies. Food touches every part of our lives. It shapes our health, our culture, our economy and our planet. Yet in the United States, we throw away up to 40 percent of the food we grow. At the same time, millions of people experience food insecurity every day.That contradiction tells us something important: this isn’t a problem of not having enough food. It’s a problem rooted in financial insecurity, immigration and labor conditions, land rights, transportation and logistics, and market expectations that demand constant abundance and “perfect” shelves.Contact and connect with Yuka: [email protected] Food Shift: https://foodshift.net/

Today, we’re joined by David McGuire, Executive Director of Shark Stewards, an organization dedicated to protecting endangered marine species and the critical ocean habitats they depend on.For more than fifty years, foundational laws such as the Endangered Species Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and the National Marine Sanctuaries Act have served as our nation’s safety net for wildlife and wild places. First enacted under President Nixon, these landmark protections have saved countless species from extinction and safeguarded some of the planet’s most vital ecosystems.Today, that hard-won legacy is under serious threat. Efforts to weaken or dismantle these laws would create a crisis not only for wildlife, but for the health of our oceans and the coastal communities that rely on them. David is working to defend sharks, rays, and the broader ocean ecosystems they call home.From combating the global shark fin trade to establishing marine protected areas and engaging communities in hands-on science, Shark Stewards advances conservation from local beaches to international policy arenas.https://sharkstewards.org/saving-sharks/

My guest is Anupa Asokan, executive director of Fish On, an organization working to ensure that coastal communities and the ecosystems they rely on can thrive for generations to come. Fish On is all about empowering the people who know the water best: the anglers, families, and coastal residents whose lives are tied to healthy oceans. Through community-driven advocacy, science-based policy, and a commitment to fairness and access, they’re helping shape the future of our fisheries from the ground up.In this conversation, Anupa breaks down what Fish On is and why its mission matters, especially at a time when coastal ecosystems face pressures from climate change, pollution, habitat loss, and outdated management practices. We’ll explore their three core priorities: common-sense fishery management, clean water, and equitable access.She also talks about how upstream watershed issues can ripple all the way to our coastlines, and the challenges that diverse and historically marginalized fishing communities face when trying to participate in conservation policy. We talk about the balance between short-term needs and long-term sustainability, what she wishes decision-makers understood right now, and a standout project where Fish On helped change policy by lifting up the voices of fishermen themselves.Contact and connect: https://www.fishon.us/ 

Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Mary Olson, Executive Director of the Generational Radiation Impact Project, or GRIP,  an organization dedicated to understanding and addressing how radiation exposure affects people differently across age, sex, and generation.Mary has been a longtime advocate for more equitable and science-based radiation protection standards. Her work highlights something too often overlooked in nuclear policy: the fact that our current regulations are based on a so-called “reference man” ,an adult male model that doesn’t reflect the biological realities of women, children, or future generations.In our conversation, we explore why GRIP was founded and what its mission is, how scientific understanding of radiation’s impacts has evolved, and why the focus on “generational”matters now more than ever, 80 years after the first use of nuclear weapons.We also talk about what’s changed since we last spoke in 2020: new findings, new allies in science and policy, and what gives Mary hope that we can move toward a more inclusive, protective approach to radiation standards that safeguards everyone.

Today, we’re joined by Mona Shomali, Director of the New Leaders Initiative at the Earth Island Institute,  the organization behind the annual Brower Youth Awards, which recognize some of the most inspiring young environmental leaders in North America.Earth Island Institute is a hub for grassroots environmental projects around the world, and the New Leaders Initiative focuses specifically on elevating youth leadership in the fight for climate justice.In this episode, Mona walks us through the legacy of Earth Island founder David Brower, why young people between 13 and 22 are at the forefront of transformational change, and how the environmental movement has evolved and must continue to evolve to support their leadership.We also talk about the behind-the-scenes support systems that sustain these youth leaders year-round, how the Brower Youth Awards have changed since their founding in 2000, and how Mona’s own journey including her work in the Amazon has informed her work in climate storytelling.New Leaders Initiative https://www.broweryouthawards.org/about/ Water Mamas book: https://www.amazon.com/Water-Mamas-Climate-Spirituality-Indigenous/dp/B0FR3LRTFV

Today, we’re joined by Marquita Bradshaw who is an environmental justice organizer, community advocate, and Executive Director of Sowing Justice.Marquita made history as the first African American woman to win a major party nomination for the U.S. Senate in Tennessee, all while using a traditional grassroots organizing model.After that groundbreaking campaign, she founded Sowing Justice,  a nonprofit focused on building power in communities long ignored or harmed by environmental injustice, especially in the Deep South.In this episode, we talk about injustices in Tennessee, the Elon Musk data centers in Memphis, and the growing fight against TVA’s planned methane gas expansion. From leaking pipelines to regulatory loopholes, we dig into how this public utility’s choices are shaping the lives and futures of people across the Tennessee Valley.Contact and connect: https://www.sowingjustice.org/ https://cleanenergy.org/news/tvas-methane-gas-expansion-is-a-bad-deal-for-memphis/ 

Today, we're joined by Michael Brown, Executive Director of Sustaining Way, a nonprofit based in Greenville, South Carolina, that’s redefining sustainability through equity, education, and faith. Through powerful community programs like Annie’s House, youth leadership initiatives, and resilient home interventions, Sustaining Way brings together environmental justice, interfaith values, and hands-on action. I’m excited to dive into how they’re creating a more sustainable and just [email protected]://sustainingway.org/

Today, we’re diving into a crisis that’s hitting close to home for many North Carolinians, one that sits at the intersection of climate change, corporate accountability, and financial survival: the insurance crisis unfolding in the wake of Hurricane Helene.I talk with Charles Slidders, Senior Attorney at the Center for International Environmental Law, or CIEL. Charles is a legal expert working on the front lines of climate justice and he’s co-author of a powerful new analysis that reveals a troubling pattern: insurance companies are helping finance the very fossil fuel projects that are driving extreme weather… and then turning around to hike rates or drop coverage when those disasters strike.When Hurricane Helene tore through the Carolinas, it didn’t just knock down trees or flood neighborhoods, it tore the lid off something deeper. It showed just how shaky our financial systems really are, especially when it comes to insurance.As the state works to recover, one thing’s clear: it’s not a matter of if another storm will hit, it’s whether we’ll be prepared when it does.Contact and connect with Charles: https://www.ciel.org/

Today we’re talking with Romain Chuffart is with the Arctic Institute. We’re turning our attention to one of the most fragile and rapidly changing regions on Earth — the Arctic.This vast, icy expanse at the top of the world plays a crucial role in regulating our global climate and is home to unique ecosystems and Indigenous communities whose lives are intertwined with the land and sea. But the Arctic is warming at more than twice the global rate, triggering dramatic changes that ripple far beyond its borders.In this episode, we’ll unpack what defines the Arctic region, explore the profound impacts climate change is having there, and discuss why these changes matter to all of us. We’ll also dive into international cooperation, governance challenges, and the vital role Indigenous knowledge plays in shaping sustainable policies.

Today, we’re talking with Diane Wilson, the Executive Director of the San Antonio Bay Waterkeeper, about a nuclear proposal that’s raising red flags across the Gulf Coast of Texas.A company called Dow/Union Carbide wants to build a Small Modular Reactor, the Xe-100 near Long Mott, Texas, just miles from the Guadalupe River and San Antonio Bay. It’s a region already grappling with historic flooding, that just inundated communities along the Guadalupe months ago.Now, the San Antonio Bay Waterkeeper and other advocates are stepping in, filing the first-ever intervention against a Small Modular Reactor in the U.S.We speak about the significance of this historic moment, what’s at stake for the environment, the community, and the climate, and how the NRC is pushing forward with an unproven design in a flood-prone region.Contact and connect with Diane: [email protected] Full press release: https://sanantoniobaywaterkeeper.org/local-group-files-first-ever-legal-challenge-to-smr/NRC filing: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML2518/ML25188A218.pdf

Today we’re diving deep into the fight for environmental justice right here in North Carolina.Our guest is Dr. Rania Masri, Co-Director of the North Carolina Environmental Justice Network, or NCEJN. It's a powerful grassroots organization committed to supporting communities on the frontlines of environmental harm. NCEJN has been a force in holding polluters and policymakers accountable, while centering the voices of those most impacted.In this episode, we’ll talk about the origins and mission of NCEJN, how the organization defines and practices environmental justice, and the major issues facing North Carolina, from industrial agriculture to regulatory inaction. We’ll also hear about recent wins, hard lessons, and what it really takes to build power in local communities.

Today, we’re exploring one of the most vital waterways in the Southeast, the Chattahoochee River.Our guest is Henry Jacobs, Deputy Director at Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, an organization that has been on the front lines of river protection since 1994. From drinking water for millions to habitat for countless species, the Chattahoochee is a lifeline, but it also faces serious challenges, from pollution to the impacts of climate change.In this episode, we’ll talk with Henry about the river’s geography and ecology, the evolution of Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s mission, and the innovative programs they’ve launched, from floating classrooms to trash traps, making a real difference on the ground and in the water.We’ll also hear what the data is telling us about the river’s health and how every one of us can play a role in protecting this critical resource.Contact and connect: [email protected] https://chattahoochee.org/our-river/

Today’s episode we're back to Northampton County, North Carolina, where a quiet but critical debate is heating up over the future of farmland and solar energy.On April 7, 2025, community advocates Sylvia Vincent, Debbie Davis, and Alfred Kwasikpui presented a powerful case to the Northampton County Commissioners. Their message? That insufficient limits on solar farm expansion are threatening the county’s agricultural heritage, local economy, and environmental health, contradicting the very goals laid out in the Northampton County 2040 Comprehensive Plan.Northampton County leads the state in peanut production and is second in cotton. Agriculture isn't just a way of life here, it’s the backbone of the economy. But with over a dozen large-scale solar farms already operating or approved and more on the way, residents are sounding the alarm about lost farmland, pressured landowners, and long-term environmental concerns. Not to mention, most of these solar farms are going to power large scale data centers like Facebook, not even benefiting the local community.In today’s episode, we’ll unpack:The clash between renewable energy development and farmland preservationConcerns over land use, decommissioning, and soil restorationThe role of industry influence and the need for independent oversightAnd, most importantly, what this means for rural communities across the U.S.This is a conversation about balance, how we embrace clean energy without sacrificing the communities and landscapes that feed us. So, let’s explore the voices, facts, and stakes behind the push for responsible solar farm limits in Northampton County.I split this episode into two parts, since it was so long. So make sure to come back in two weeks for part two. Contact and connect: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Northampton County Against Solar Farms: https://abc11.com/sun-solar-panels-energy/1122081/ https://www.personalized.energy/blog/northampton-implements-temporary-ban-on-solar-farms/#:~:text=In%20response%20to%20the%20public,the%20scope%20of%20their%20authority.

Today’s episode takes us to Northampton County, North Carolina, where a quiet but critical debate is heating up over the future of farmland and solar energy.On April 7, 2025, community advocates Sylvia Vincent, Debbie Davis, and Alfred Kwasikpui presented a powerful case to the Northampton County Commissioners. Their message? That insufficient limits on solar farm expansion are threatening the county’s agricultural heritage, local economy, and environmental health, contradicting the very goals laid out in the Northampton County 2040 Comprehensive Plan.Northampton County leads the state in peanut production and is second in cotton. Agriculture isn't just a way of life here, it’s the backbone of the economy. But with over a dozen large-scale solar farms already operating or approved and more on the way, residents are sounding the alarm about lost farmland, pressured landowners, and long-term environmental concerns. Not to mention, most of these solar farms are going to power large scale data centers like Facebook, not even benefiting the local community.In today’s episode, we’ll unpack:The clash between renewable energy development and farmland preservationConcerns over land use, decommissioning, and soil restorationThe role of industry influence and the need for independent oversightAnd, most importantly, what this means for rural communities across the U.S.This is a conversation about balance, how we embrace clean energy without sacrificing the communities and landscapes that feed us. So, let’s explore the voices, facts, and stakes behind the push for responsible solar farm limits in Northampton County.I split this episode into two parts, since it was so long. So make sure to come back in two weeks for part two. Contact and connect: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Northampton County Against Solar Farms: https://abc11.com/sun-solar-panels-energy/1122081/ https://www.personalized.energy/blog/northampton-implements-temporary-ban-on-solar-farms/#:~:text=In%20response%20to%20the%20public,the%20scope%20of%20their%20authority.

Today, I’m talking with Cindy Lowry, who is the Executive Director of the Alabama Rivers Alliance.For over 25 years, the Alabama Rivers Alliance has been a powerful voice for the protection and restoration of Alabama’s incredible rivers, a network of waterways that are not only vital to the region’s ecology but also home to some of the richest aquatic biodiversity in the country. From the shimmering banks of the Coosa River to the lush wetlands teeming with unique fish, mussels, and other species.Cindy shares the Alliance’s inspiring founding story and how it grew into a statewide coalition of over 100 partner organizations, all working together to protect clean water for all. We’ll explore key programs like the Water Infrastructure Resource Hub, designed to support communities with sustainable water solutions.We’ll also hear about the challenges and victories in balancing hydropower energy needs with restoring natural river flows, a complex effort critical to both people and wildlife. Contact and connect with Cindy: [email protected] ARA: https://alabamarivers.org/ DRIFT Fund: https://alabamarivers.org/drift/

Today we’re diving into the work of Root Local, an organization on a mission to cultivate sustainability at the neighborhood level across Metro Atlanta.Joining us are two voices at the heart of this movement — Jamie Lee Perkins Dalton, Executive Director of Root Local, and Butch Whitfield, a Founding Board Member. Together, they’re helping communities grow greener, more connected, and more resilient — one project, one pollinator, one partnership at a time.In this conversation, we unpack Root Local’s approach to sustainability, the strategy behind their Eco-Map of Metro Atlanta — also known as EMMA — and the growth of their innovative Pollinator Network. We also hear some real-world success stories, explore what’s next for the organization, and learn how everyday people can plug in and make a difference.So whether you're a longtime advocate for local sustainability or just curious about what's growing in your backyard, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Let’s get into it.Contact and connect: [email protected] and [email protected] Root Local: https://rootlocal.org/ EMMA: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/c0b04d84d6194a898cfc5ff4c71ac2d0/ 

Today, we’re diving into the world of environmental health and clean water with a leader whose work is improving lives—especially the lives of our youngest and most vulnerable.Our guest is Jennifer Hoponick Redmon, the Senior Director of Environmental Health and Water Quality at RTI International—a nonprofit institute committed to delivering the promise of science for global good. Jennifer is also the founding director of RTI’s CleanPlus® portfolio, which includes the award-winning Clean Water for Carolina Kids™ program. Under her leadership, this initiative has received national recognition for innovation, impact, and community partnership, including the EBJ Business Achievement Award for Project Merit and the Mutual of America Community Partnership Award.In this conversation, we’ll talk with Jennifer about RTI’s mission and reach, her work to protect communities from harmful contaminants like PFAS and lead, and why her team is focused on ensuring clean water access—starting with children in schools and childcare centers.We’ll also explore what utility companies can do to reduce exposure, how environmental health trends are evolving, and how you can support and connect with this important work.Contact and connect with Jennifer: [email protected] RTI International: https://www.rti.org/focus-area/RTI-CleanPlus-environmental-testing  Hold My Beer Study: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c11265 

Mairah Clay who is the Southern WV Coordinator and Autumn Crowe who is the Deputy Director of WV Rivers.Many West Virginians are taking a stand against the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Communities across the state are voicing their opposition to a project they say threatens fragile ecosystems, endangers clean water sources, and disregards Indigenous and rural land rights. With the rugged beauty of Appalachia at stake, West Virginians are fighting back—demanding a transition to cleaner energy and a future that protects both people and the land they call home.A report from West Virginia Rivers Coalition and Downstream Strategies highlighted that 88% of the 139 stream crossings and 89% of the 61 wetland crossings by the MVP in West Virginia were negatively impacted, with 14 stream crossings showing severe decreases in channel stability .​In March 2025, a federal court invalidated a key water permit for the MVP, emphasizing the project's detrimental effects on West Virginia's rivers and streams. This decision was celebrated by environmental groups as a significant step in protecting the state's water resources from further harm.Contact and connect with Mariah and Autumn: [email protected] and [email protected] WV Rivers: https://wvrivers.org/ MVP Story Map & Petition: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/05ae21f465af43509d576338119b29adMVP Audit Report: https://wvrivers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/MVP-November-2024-Audit-Report.pdf

Sara Heilman is Energy Policy Coordinator with NC Warn. We talk about the work that NC Warn does throughout North Carolina and how they are primarily a watchdog organization for what Duke Energy is doing in the state. We focus on how the town of Carrboro is suing Duke Energy. This is the first lawsuit against an electric utility for deceiving the public about the dangers from burning fossil fuels. Duke Energy leaders have known since the 1960s that fossil fuels are warming the planet, and instead of taking action, they’ve stalled climate action by spewing misinformation about the ties between climate change and fossil fuel use. Duke Energy needs to be held accountable! You can amplifying this historic lawsuit by:Posting on social media. Check out this toolkit for sample posts, graphics, and links to resources, and follow us @SueDukeEnergy on all platforms.Sending an email to Duke Energy CEO Lynn Good demanding she change course.Signing your organization on to a letter demanding Duke Energy ditch fossil fuels.Check out the press release and complaint, and coverage in the New York Times, Washington Post, Guardian, NPR, and more. To stay up to date on the lawsuit go to SueDukeEnergy.org.

Lib Hutchby is a member of Women's International League for Peace and Freedom in the Triangle Branch, Raging Grannies, Frack Free UNC, and NC Environmental Network.In Chapel Hill, NC, local residents are rallying against a coal-fired power plant owned by UNC Chapel Hill, as well as a nearby Duke Energy gas build outs. Several community groups are also actively working to promote environmental sustainability by hosting events like World Water Day and attending public hearings.Recently, UNC submitted a proposal to burn packaging materials and plastics, turning them into pellets to be used as fuel in their coal plant. While this 12-month trial period might reduce some emissions compared to the plant’s current fuel, burning these pellets could also increase levels of nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide. On top of that, the pellets contain small amounts of PFAS, or "forever chemicals," which are notoriously harmful.However, thanks in part to the efforts of Chapel Hill's local groups, UNC has withdrawn its application. This victory is a testament to the power of community action in protecting the environment.Contact and connect with Lib: [email protected]   Pellet testing: https://chapelboro.com/news/unc/no-more-coal-chapel-hill-prepares-for-hearing-on-uncs-co-gen-plant-and-potential-new-fuel-source

Dr. Elizabeth Hessami, who is a licensed attorney. She has served as a visiting attorney for the Environmental Law Institute for nearly a decade, researching post-conflict natural resources management and specializing in armed conflict and the environment. As well as my professor at Johns Hopkins. We talked at the end of last year and since then, Trump was sworn in as President of the United States again. On January 20th at his Inauguration Speech, President Trump stated “drill baby drill” expressing his interest to increase the US’s exploitation and drilling of fossil fuels. He is also a notorious climate change denier. So it comes to no surprise that nationally and internationally there are policies that the Trump Administration will be implementing or receding, - like withdrawing out of the Paris Climate Agreement, that will have an effect on not only the climate globally, but also on international security and relations With Dr Hessami we specifically talk about the critical minerals deal with Ukraine - to give an overview, The initial deal called for Ukraine to use its mineral resources to repay the United States $500 billion for military aid previously provided. The agreed upon framework does not designate the rights of $500 billion worth of minerals revenues to the United States nor does it include a security guarantee for Ukraine. Rather, the agreement establishes a reconstruction investment fund with joint U.S. and Ukraine ownership. Ukraine will contribute 50 percent of all revenues earned from the future monetization of all Ukrainian government-owned natural resource assets into the fund.We also discuss how to stay hopeful and actions we can take ourselves during these changing times.I also want to note that we recorded this on February 21st of this year before any further meetings and talks between Trump and Zelynskyy happened.Contact and connect with Dr. Hessami: [email protected] Sources:https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/26/europe/ukraine-us-mineral-resources-deal-explained-intl-latam/index.htmlhttps://www.csis.org/analysis/breaking-down-us-ukraine-minerals-deal

Sweden has figured out recycling. This shows, as they are the highest recyclers in the world. To talk about recycling we also have to mention all streams of waste - not just the products that are eligible to be recycled. In fact,only 1% of Sweden's trash goes into a landfill. Just to reiterate, 99% of Sweden’s waste is recycled! 52% is burned and converted into energy and then the remaining 47% is recycled and given another life.Recycling is simply a way of life in Sweden. It is ingrained in the culture and taught to kids at a very young age. Literature says, culture is a huge factor that drives sustainable development - it starts with the mindset of the people. So Sweden is a progressive leader to know this kind of change starts with youth. Sweden has strict laws and regulations that not only aid in recycling and recyclability of products, but make it so that certain products aren’t manufactured, packaged, or imported in the first place to end up in the wastestream. They also highly encourage citizens to firstly reduce and reuse before recycling. Recycling is just an initial step to work towards climate goals and sustainability. It’s not the end all be all for the climate, but such a foundational place to start. Changing our everyday habits and behavior is where this change will happen and I believe Sweden is leading the way. 4 Main Ways Sweden Accomplishes 1% of Waste in Landfills: Education to CitizensSocial Systems in PlaceExtended Producer Responsibility LawWaste-To-Energy Model  Sources:https://unece.org/sustainable-energy/about-methane-management-0https://www.svenskplastatervinning.se/en/about-plastic-recycling/https://www.worldcleanupday.org/country/sweden#:~:text=Hela%20Sverige%20plockar%20skr%C3%A4p%202024,sustainable%20and%20litter%20free%20world!&text=On%20this%20day%2C%20Keep%20Sweden,all%20the%20litter%20we%20see.

Steph Gans is an EJ Organizer for Clean Water for North Carolina. Clean Water for North Carolina’s mission is to promote clean, safe water and environments, and empower communities for all North Carolinians through advocacy, outreach, education, and technical assistance.With Steph we talk about the multiple natural gas build outs and data centers proposed in North Carolina, specifically how it will affect communities, rate payers, and land owners. We also talk about pollution accountability, tools they offer, and motivation for continuing to work towards environmental justice.Contact and connect:[email protected] https://cwfnc.org

Sweden is the most sustainable country in the world. For decades they have been paving the way for environmental action. In fact, they were the first country to pass an Environmental Protection Act back in 1967. They are also the highest recyclers in the world - read more about that here.  I was more than ecstatic to hear all of this - first coming from America where it took so much effort to do your best for the environment and secondly with this new US administration cutting back so many environmental regulations. I thought it would be enlightening to hear about somewhere that heavily prioritizes the environment.  So how did this Scandinavian country become the sustainable country in the world? I believe there are two HUGE factors that play a major role: culture and policy. I do also want to point out that Sweden is an incredibly rich country with the world's 14th highest GDP per capita. It is a welfare country that provides many social services to its people including environmental infrastructure. Therefore, the start-up costs for various technologies and infrastructure isn’t a hurdle as it might be for other countries. BUT as mentioned before, the richest countries are the ones polluting the most, so it’s a matter of priority. 

Lisa Sorg is the North Carolina reporter for InsideClimate News. A journalist for 30 years, Sorg covers energy, climate, environment and agriculture, as well as the social justice impacts of pollution and corporate malfeasance. The past couple of months Lisa has had a 5-story series called “Gaslighting” that breaks down several natural gas projects from gas pipelines, compressor stations, and power plants that are proposed throughout North Carolina. These natural gas projects will emit hundreds of thousands tons of methane into the atmosphere per year. As we know, Methane is a huge driver of climate change and will make matters locally and globally worse. Lisa also talks with the NC communities and people on the ground who will be affected and what it means going forward. Contact and connect: [email protected] Gaslighting Series: https://insideclimatenews.org/news/29122024/north-carolinas-climate-activists-brace-for-trumps-return/

Younju Lee is from South Korea and based in Paris, France. She is a Masters student for Environmental Policy as well as an intern with the Stakeholder Engagement team at United Nations Climate Change.  The United Nations is working around the world to cut emissions, pursue nature-based solutions, extend sustainable energy and invest in resilient cities, among many other initiatives. One of the most pressing initiatives is The Paris Agreement, which is a legally binding international treaty on climate change. It was adopted by 196 Parties at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris, France, on 12 December 2015. It then, entered into force on 4 November 2016. Its overarching goal is to hold “the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels” and pursue efforts “to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.” However, in recent years, world leaders have stressed the need to limit global warming to 1.5°C by the end of this century.  With Younju we talk about her experience working with the UN, the Paris Agreement, her contributions, challenges of working with an international organization, and COP29. Contact and connect: [email protected]    Paris Agreement: https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement

Dr. Elizabeth Hessami is a professor at Johns Hopkins University and a licensed attorney. She has served as a visiting attorney for the Environmental Law Institute for nearly a decade, researching post-conflict natural resources management and specializing in armed conflict and the environment. And she was actually my professor for Environmental and Natural Resource Security in my masters program.  Resource security refers to a state in which a country or region has sustainable, stable, timely, adequate and economical access to necessary natural resources and resource products, and the capability to maintain a sustained state of security. The UN states: As climate change accelerates, its impacts exacerbate existing social, economic, and environmental challenges in many contexts, which can contribute to insecurity at local levels and internationally. Security concerns linked to climate change include impacts on food, water and energy supplies, increased competition over natural resources, loss of livelihoods, climate-related disasters, and forced migration and displacement. Despite growing recognition of the interlinkages between climate change, peace and security, few examples of integrated programmatic approaches that address specific risks at the intersection of climate change and insecurity exist.  Conflict and crisis affected contexts are more susceptible to being overwhelmed by climate change, but too often peacebuilding and stabilisation efforts often do not consider climate-related impacts or environmental hazards. At the same time, insecurity hinders climate change adaptation efforts, leaving already vulnerable communities even poorer and less resilient to interlinked climate and security crises, but climate change adaptation initiatives often fail to fully integrate peacebuilding or conflict prevention objectives. With Dr. Hessami, we talk about her background, work in Afghanistan, the phenomenon of the resource curse, some of the biggest threats, challenges, and what the future looks like. Contact and connect: [email protected]  Dr. Hessami’s Work: “Conflict, Crisis, and Peacebuilding: Afghanistan and Regional Water Security,” Elizabeth B. Hessami, New Security Beat, The Wilson Center, June 12, 2023 “New Legal Protections for the Environment in Relation to Armed Conflict,” Elizabeth B. Hessami and Karen Hulme, International Union for the Conservation of Nature, July 16, 2022 “The Uncertain Future of Afghanistan’s Nascent Environmental Laws,” Elizabeth B. Hessami, Bloomberg Law, September 2, 2021 Environment and Natural Resource Security https://read.oecd-ilibrary.org/development/better-policies-for-development/overview-the-environment-and-natural-resource-security_9789264115958-12-en#page1

Court Lewis is the BREDL chapter President of Unicoi Clear in Unicoi County, TN and currently living in Upstate, South Carolina.  In late September of this year, category 4 Hurricane Helene caused widespread destruction and death across the Southeast United States including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee. More than 230 people have been killed and it has caused more than $2 billion in damages.  Court witnessed the effects and aftermath of Hurricane Helene first hand. He tells about how unprecedented this disaster was, stories from neighbors and community members, the aftermath and clean up process, and what local organizations you can donate to. From talking with people from Western NC who were affected - here are 4 steps you can take to help with Hurricane Helene efforts: 1. Donate to Hood Huggers International. They are a resiliency organization in Asheville, NC that are providing immediate and direct support for those hit hardest in the area. 2. Refuse to shrug this off as a natural disaster. Talk to everyone about how unprecedented this was and how the destruction was due to human induced climate change. This can’t be the new normal. 3. Learn - learn how to bring more balance and justice to the world by educating yourself and others. 4. Vote - vote for people who support policies rebuilding impacted communities better before the storm. Donate: Hood Huggers International: https://hoodhuggers.com/ Helene was NOT a natural disaster: https://www.yahoo.com/news/helene-shows-that-hurricanes-in-the-age-of-climate-change-dont-wreck-just-coastlines-210015013.html?guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAJiD87rnbHmYtfOtq6X3HBm-xG6D7RzwZawgYkJwNxh8vbY3jfi_9J1Hns47GF-yMLr5jkYvVoe6MR50wY00NjY8-TlUekQWxaq8g1-Y0Lq32VV-AksvSDQ8QWC4iZzISFEpecHvNRmKS8fCOqku7s7UCI4lempBtfHuwiagYSX1&emci=4e0a2ebe-1780-ef11-8474-6045bda8aae9&emdi=d02158fd-4380-ef11-8474-6045bda8aae9&ceid=1121357&guccounter=2  Contact and connect with Court: [email protected]  

Karen Hill is the President of the Tennessee Native Plant Society. The Tennessee Native Plant Society mission is to conserve and celebrate native plant communities and their habitats through education. From the Appalachian Mountains to the floodplains of the Mississippi, Tennessee’s native plant communities make one of the most botanically diverse and interesting states in the nation.  With Karen we talk about what plants are native to the TN region, which are endangered, how insects play a vital role, and efforts they make to help bring native plants back. Connect: [email protected] https://www.tnps.org/

Abigail Franks who is the Membership and Policy Manager and Alexander Easdale who is the Executive Director at Southeast Climate and Energy Network.  The Southeast Climate and Energy Network has a mission to confront the climate crisis by creating strategic alignment, growing capacity, and building power among member organizations and their communities in the Southeast. They have a huge focus on grassroots work that prioritizes and uses the knowledge that southerners already have. They know that there are challenges in the South, but there are people on the ground who have the solutions. Contact: [email protected] and [email protected]  All the information we talked about can be found: https://www.scen-us.org/

Carlton Turner is the Co-Director / Co-Founder at Sipp Culture. Based in the rural South, “Sipp Culture” is honoring the history and building the future of their community in Utica, MS.  Sipp Culture supports community development from the ground up through cultural production focused on self-determination and agency designed by them and for them. They believe that history, culture, and food affirm their individual and collective humanity. So, they are strengthening our local food system, advancing health equity, and supporting rural artistic voices – while activating the power of story – all to promote the legacy and vision of our hometown. With Carlton we talk about SIPPs mission, current projects and the significance of land, stories, and local food.

Erica Hall is Executive Director and Board Chair at Florida Food Policy Council. Executive Committee Member of the Sierra Club, Florida Chapter. As well as a National Board of Director Member of the National Sierra Club.  The Florida Food Policy Council (FLFPC) works to address gaps and affect policy within the food system through integrity and collaboration for the benefit of all Floridians and the environment.  Food Policy Councils (FPCs) provide a unique forum for diverse stakeholders to come together and address common concerns regarding food policy including food systems, food security, farm policy, food regulations, health, and nutrition. Stakeholders include people such as farmers, city and state officials, non-profit organizations, chefs, food distributors, food justice advocates, educators, health professionals, and concerned citizens.  With Erica, we talk about the intersections of her work, challenges in the food systems today, the importance of land, urban agriculture, and their impact in the community. Erica also mentions the Farm Bill, which urgently needs support.  Contact: https://flfpc.wildapricot.org/  Farm Bill: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-bill/index

Hi everyone, we’re back with Debbie Clemens who is with the Outreach Coordinator for Orangutan Outreach. In this episode we talk all about palm oil and its effects. The sourcing of palm oil causes conflict because it has been produced illegally or under conditions associated with labor or human rights violations, ongoing destruction of rainforests, or expansion on carbon-rich peatlands.   One of the most pressing concerns associated with Palm Oil is its environmental impact. The expansion of palm oil plantations has been linked to deforestation, habitat destruction, and biodiversity loss. In many cases, pristine rainforests are cleared to make way for these plantations, leading to the loss of critical habitat for endangered species like orangutans, tigers, and rhinoceroses. Deforestation also contributes to climate change by releasing stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. With Debbie we talk about what palm oil is, where you can commonly find it, the ethics around it, and more. Contact and connect with Debbie: [email protected]  https://redapes.org/   https://palmdoneright.com/what-is-conflict-palm-oil/ 

In this episode I continue my conversation with Debbie Clemens who is the Outreach Coordinator for Orangutan Outreach. We talk about the behind the scenes work that goes into making field work possible for these creatures. Tune in for the last episode of the series in two weeks. Contact and connect with Debbie: [email protected]  https://redapes.org/   https://palmdoneright.com/what-is-conflict-palm-oil/