Talking Environment

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan speaks with Dr. Gwen Ottinger, Professor at Drexel University, whose work spans environmental justice, science and technology studies, and citizen science. Together, they explore the politics of environmental knowledge, who produces it, who benefits from it, and how communities are challenging traditional power structures through technology and data.From community-led air monitoring to the ethical design of environmental technologies, this conversation dives deep into how science and justice intersect and how new forms of participation are reshaping both research and policy.If you’ve ever asked, “Who gets to define the problem?” or “Whose knowledge counts?”, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan speaks with Dr. Maryia Bakhtsiyarava from Drexel University about how climate change, urban inequality, and health outcomes are deeply connected, and how data can help us respond more justly.Dr. Bakhtsiyarava explains how environmental exposures like heat and air pollution disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, and how spatial data science and GIS can illuminate patterns of environmental injustice. The episode highlights the role of research institutions in advancing climate equity and what cities can do to protect public health in a warming world.Tune in to learn how combining science, compassion, and data can create more resilient and equitable communities.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan speaks with Dr. Neeti Bathala—Fulbright Specialist, Smithsonian Journeys Expert, and Drexel University professor—about her work in tropical conservation and environmental education.The conversation highlights Dr. Bathala’s community-based conservation efforts in Belize and Costa Rica, including lionfish population control and partnerships with sea turtle protectors. She also discusses how education can bridge the gap between global environmental science and local realities, and why hope, culture, and collaboration are key to protecting fragile ecosystems.Tune in to discover how science, students, and communities are coming together to lead sustainability efforts in some of the most vulnerable corners of our planet.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan talks with Dr. Jane Dmochowski of the University of Pennsylvania about how we teach, translate, and communicate environmental science in a rapidly changing world. Dr. Dmochowski discusses the challenges of making climate change understandable to the public, the evolving role of universities in climate communication, and how satellite remote sensing can reveal the hidden stories of environmental change. She also reflects on the value of storytelling in sparking action and how today’s students are redefining climate leadership. Tune in to explore the future of environmental education and how knowledge becomes a tool for change.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan is joined by Dr. Jane Clougherty, Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health at Drexel University’s Dornsife School of Public Health, for a deep and timely conversation on the intersection of air quality, social stress, and public health.Dr. Clougherty shares her research on how environmental exposures, especially air pollution, combine with chronic stressors to create unequal health outcomes, particularly in urban communities. The conversation explores what cities can do to respond to these complex challenges and how climate change is further complicating air quality and health equity.You’ll also hear about innovations in exposure tracking, the role of community data, and what it takes to center justice in environmental health planning.

In this episode of Talking Environment, Gevorg Ghazaryan speaks with Dr. Frederick Steiner, Dean of the Weitzman School of Design at the University of Pennsylvania, about the urgent role of ecological planning in shaping cities of the future.Dr. Steiner unpacks the core principles of ecological design, explains why cities are critical to climate adaptation, and highlights the importance of integrating equity into urban planning. The episode touches on current planning mistakes, emerging models of resilient design, and how educators and institutions can prepare the next generation of environmental designers.Tune in to hear how systems thinking, collaboration, and visionary planning can transform the built environment for people and the planet.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan is joined by Dr. Laura Toran, Professor of Earth and Environmental Science at Temple University, for a deep dive into one of the most essential but often overlooked topics in environmental science - urban water systems.From stormwater to sinkholes, Dr. Toran explains how water moves through cities, why flooding is getting worse, and what urban planners and everyday citizens can do to manage water more sustainably. The conversation also explores karst hydrology, pollution pathways, groundwater risks, and how science and technology are helping us better understand what happens beneath our feet.Whether you’re interested in climate resilience, infrastructure, or just curious about where rainwater really goes - this episode will change how you think about water in cities.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan sits down with Dr. Sean O'Donnell, Professor of Biodiversity, Earth & Environmental Science at Drexel University, to delve into the fascinating world of social insects and their responses to environmental stressors. Dr. O'Donnell shares insights from his research on insect behavior and neuroecology, focusing on how species like ants, bees, wasps, and termites exhibit complex social structures that enable them to adapt to challenges such as climate change and habitat loss. The conversation explores the concept of "thermal sociobiology," examining how rising temperatures impact insect colonies and what these changes mean for broader ecosystems. Dr. O'Donnell discusses the resilience of social insects, their role in maintaining ecological balance, and the lessons humans can learn from their adaptive strategies. Tune in to Talking Environment to discover how the smallest creatures on our planet offer significant insights into resilience, sustainability, and the interconnectedness of life.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan sits down with Angela Pachon, the Research Director at the Kleinman Center for Energy Policy, to explore the role of climate policies, energy regulation, and policy implementation challenges in shaping environmental sustainability.Angela Pachon brings extensive experience in electricity markets, gas policies, and climate policies, having worked as a policy advisor and economic consultant across North America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. She shares insights into how research institutions influence climate initiatives, the effectiveness of energy policies, and the barriers to implementing meaningful environmental regulations.Tune in to Talking Environment to gain a deeper understanding of how policy decisions impact climate action and what strategies can drive effective environmental governance.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan sits down with Cam Grey, an environmental and social historian and Associate Professor of Classical Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, to explore the historical connections between environmental activism, climate change, and sustainability in the Roman Empire.Professor Grey shares insights into how ancient societies navigated environmental challenges, the impact of climate variability on civilizations, and the early forms of environmental legislation and advocacy in the Roman world. This conversation uncovers valuable lessons from history that can inform modern climate activism and policy-making.Tune in toTalking Environment to gain a deeper understanding of how environmental history shapes today’s sustainability efforts and what we can learn from past civilizations in addressing contemporary environmental crises.

In this episode of Talking Environment, host Gevorg Ghazaryan sits down with Professor Andrew Smith, a scholar in Philosophy and Environmental Studies at Drexel University, to explore the connections between environmental justice, food justice, and decolonization. Professor Smith shares insights into the ethical dimensions of climate change, the role of Indigenous knowledge in environmental research, and the importance of challenging colonial legacies in academia. This conversation explores key areas such as climate justice, environmental ethics, and the moral responsibilities of societies toward the environment. Tune in to Talking Environment to get a better understanding of how philosophy and environmental studies fight for a more equitable and sustainable future. 🌍 Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us in advocating for justice in environmental decision-making. 📌 Subscribe for more episodes on environmental activism, climate policy, and sustainability!

In this episode of "Talking Environment," host Gevorg Ghazaryan is joined by Professor Simon Richter, the Class of 1965 Endowed Term Professor of German and Dutch literature and culture at the University of Pennsylvania. Professor Richter, a pioneer in linking literature, culture, and the environment, shares his insights on the cultural aspects of adaptation, resilience, and migration in the face of the climate emergency. The conversation explores how cultural narratives influence our responses to climate change, shaping societal perceptions and informing adaptation strategies. Professor Richter discusses the importance of storytelling in envisioning future climate scenarios and how different cultures draw on their unique traditions to cope with climate impacts.Tune in to "Talking Environment" to learn about the intersection of culture and climate change and discover how interdisciplinary approaches can enhance our understanding and response to this global challenge.

In this episode of "Talking Environment," host Gevorg Ghazaryan engages with Brian Berkey, Associate Professor of Legal Studies & Business Ethics at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, to explore the world of environmental ethics. Brian provides a deep dive into the ethical dilemmas that arise from our interactions with the environment.The discussion covers a range of topics, including the ethical implications of deforestation, species extinction, and the use of gasoline-powered vehicles. Brian and Gevorg also delve into broader concepts such as corporate social responsibility, environmental justice, and climate change ethics. By discussing these issues through the lens of environmental ethics, they highlight the moral responsibilities we have toward future generations and the natural world.Tune in to "Talking Environment" to gain insights into how ethical frameworks can guide our environmental policies and actions.

Welcome back to "Talking Environment"! Join host Gevorg Ghazaryan as he sits down with Dr. Marilyn Howarth, a renowned expert in environmental health, for an enlightening discussion about our environmental health. Dr. Howarth shares key highlights from her extensive journey in environmental health, navigating intersections with social justice and emphasizing the importance of community engagement. Explore successful community-driven initiatives and Dr. Howarth's experience developing an environmental justice curriculum empowering students to identify hazards and advocate for change. Delve into innovative adaptation strategies for climate change, collaborative efforts in addressing environmental health challenges, and insights into future directions and emerging threats. Gain valuable knowledge and inspiration from Dr. Howarth's expertise and experiences in safeguarding environmental and public health.

In this episode, join host Gevorg Ghazaryan as he sits down with Alex Bomstein, the Executive Director of Clean Air Council in Philadelphia, to discuss the importance of clean air advocacy.As the Executive Director of Clean Air Council, Alex shares insights into the organization's initiatives and mission to fight air pollution and promote environmental health. They delve into the challenges and opportunities in sustainability, including funding constraints and policy barriers.Highlighting the vital role of community engagement, Alex and Gevorg discuss strategies for involving people in environmental initiatives and adopting sustainable practices in daily life. They offer practical tips for individuals looking to make a positive impact on the environment and emphasize the collective responsibility to advocate for a cleaner, greener future.Join us for an enlightening conversation with Alex Bomstein as we learn more about the importance of clean air advocacy and the collective efforts needed to protect our planet. Tune in to "Talking Environment" and be inspired to take action for a healthier environment.

Welcome back to "Talking Environment"! In this episode, we're thrilled to sit down with Noah Swistak, the Sustainability Manager at the University of Pennsylvania. Join us as we explore Noah's journey into the world of sustainability and his role in green initiatives at one of the leading universities in the world.Noah shares fascinating insights into the challenges and successes of promoting sustainability within a large institution like UPenn. We'll also delve into Noah's passion for sustainability education and outreach, discussing the importance of inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders. Noah also shares practical tips for individuals and communities looking to adopt more sustainable lifestyles.So tune in as we chat with Noah Swistak about driving sustainable change at UPenn and beyond.

Welcome to our first episode! Join our exciting journey with Dr. Jon Hawkings, a biogeochemist at the University of Pennsylvania who's on a mission to unravel the secrets of Earth's melting ice. In this episode, we'll dive deep into Dr. Hawkings' wild adventures, from the icy landscapes of the Arctic to the rugged terrains of Patagonia and beyond. Get ready to hear exciting stories and surprising discoveries as Dr. Hawkings shares how melted glacier water impacts our planet's ecosystems. We'll chat about everything from climate change conversations to unexpected encounters with wildlife. Plus, Dr. Hawkings will give us some practical tips on how everyday folks like us can help protect our planet. So grab your hiking boots and join us for a thrilling ride through the wonders of glacial meltwater and beyond!