Outrage + Optimism
Face the climate crisis head on, but understand that we have the power to solve this. From former UN Chief Christiana Figueres and the team who brought you the Paris Agreement, this podcast about issues and politics will inform you, inspire you and help you realize that this is the most exciting time in history to be alive.
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278. Pets, Preppers and Personal Carbon Budgets
12/19/2024
278. Pets, Preppers and Personal Carbon Budgets
How can you reduce the environmental impact of your cat or dog? What’s the best way to prepare for climate breakdown? And how should you talk to children about climate? Christiana, Paul and Tom wrap up the year by answering an eclectic and insightful selection of your questions. Plus: they digest the fourth and final COP of the year, known as the Desertification COP, which took place in December in Saudi Arabia and reflect on their own feelings at the end of a challenging year for the climate movement. Huge thanks to our community of listeners for all the great questions submitted and all the support this year. Apologies if we didn’t get to your question this time but do keep sending them our way. See you in 2025! NOTES AND RESOURCES Learn more about the . Please follow us on social media! | |
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277. Trump and Climate Populism with Ben Rhodes
12/12/2024
277. Trump and Climate Populism with Ben Rhodes
Ben Rhodes—writer, political commentator, and former Deputy National Security Advisor under President Obama—joins the host team to dissect the challenges of a Trump 2.0 administration. Rhodes issues a bold call for a new "climate populist" strategy, to redirect the populist right-wing outrage over climate action toward exposing the oil and gas industry's stranglehold on climate negotiations, as seen at recent COP summits. Christiana, Tom, Paul, plus special guest Fi Macklin, invite Rhodes to explore themes of strong leadership, the shifting dynamics of geopolitics, Trump’s appeal to the U.S. electorate, and how the world could navigate global climate politics without the US over the next four years? NOTES AND RESOURCES GUESTS Ben Rhodes, writer, political commentator, and national security analyst | | , Senior Advisor on Groundswell, Global Optimism Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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276. Action On Plastic Pollution with Ellen MacArthur
12/05/2024
276. Action On Plastic Pollution with Ellen MacArthur
This week, Christiana, Tom and Paul tackle the latest on the global plastics treaty (known as INC-5), which ended last week without a deal. Why were countries unable to agree a deal despite the huge amount of public concern about plastic pollution? What pathways remain for an agreement in 2025? And why is it so important to maintain focus on plastic from a climate point of view? Dive into the challenges and explore potential solutions with the team. Continuing this critical theme, Ellen MacArthur, Founder & Chair of Trustees of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, world record-breaking sailor and circular economy advocate, joins Christiana to share an exclusive conversation as part of a collaboration between The Circular Economy Show and Outrage + Optimism. Together they consider what’s next for the global plastics treaty, get excited about the role of the private sector in tackling plastic pollution, and highlight how the visibility of plastics can help capture public attention on climate. Before you go… Help shape the podcast for 2025! If you haven’t yet completed our annual listener survey, we’d be so grateful if you can spare 10 minutes to complete it . Tell us what you like, what you don’t like, and what you want more of from Outrage + Optimism. NOTES AND RESOURCES GUEST Dame Ellen MacArthur | Ellen MacArthur Foundation | | | | The Foundation works to accelerate the transition to a circular economy, if you’d like to find out more, the Foundation’s podcast ‘’ talks to experts from across industry, governments and academia to hear first hand about how the circular economy is being developed and scaled. December Mailbag Episode We would LOVE to hear your questions for our end of year listener Mailbag episode. Whether it is your questions on our most recent How to Live a Good Life series, questions on the recent COPs or everything and anything in between. Please either: Send us an email: with Climate Questions: December Mailbag in the title. Visit our social media pages and drop the question in the comments. Alternatively, if you want the chance for your message to be played on the show, record a message for us Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! |
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275. COP29 Conclusions
11/28/2024
275. COP29 Conclusions
This week, the team dives into the dramatic highs and lows of COP29 in Baku. With negotiations stretching into the final hours, a hard-fought finance deal emerged to bolster climate action and support for the most vulnerable. Yet, Christiana describes the agreement as “paltry at best,” highlighting the yawning chasm between what was agreed upon and what is truly necessary to address the climate crisis. For those advocating for an ambitious, needs-based outcome, this year’s COP was a bruising experience—marked by frustration, hurt, and disappointment. The hosts share their thoughts on the controversies surrounding Azerbaijan's COP presidency and the challenges faced by negotiators committed to transformational change. Finally, the team welcomes a very special guest: superstar producer Clay Carnill. As Clay prepares to leave the show, the hosts reflect on his incredible contributions to Outrage + Optimism—from the early days to now. Known for his humour, joy, unparalleled talent, attention-to-detail, professionalism, musicality and general all-round awesomeness, Clay has been a cornerstone of the podcast’s success. He will be deeply missed by the entire team. We send Clay off with all our love—and best wishes for him (and the Detroit Lions!) on the journey ahead. 🎧 Tune in for reflections, critiques, and heartfelt goodbyes. NOTES AND RESOURCES December Mailbag Episode We would LOVE to hear your questions for our end of year listener Mailbag episode. Whether it is your questions on our most recent How to Live a Good Life series, questions on the recent COPs or everything and anything in between. Please either: Send us an email: with Climate Questions: December Mailbag in the title. Visit our social media pages and drop the question in the comments. Alternatively, if you want the chance for your message to be played on the show, record a message for us Help shape the podcast for 2025! If you haven’t yet completed our annual listener survey, we’d be so grateful if you can spare 10 minutes to complete it . Tell us what you like, what you don’t like, and what you want more of from Outrage + Optimism. GUEST Clay Carnill | | | | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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274. COP29: From Billions to Trillions - G20 Calls for Ambition in Climate Finance
11/21/2024
274. COP29: From Billions to Trillions - G20 Calls for Ambition in Climate Finance
This week, our hosts talk about what’s been happening - and not happening - in Rio and Baku. Christiana clarifies the mandate of COPs and advocates for COP processes and presidencies to be separate from national positions and interests while robustly defending multi-lateralism. The hosts discuss how world leaders meeting in Rio for the G20 meeting have sent a powerful political signal to those meeting in COP29 in Baku: a need for "rapidly and substantially scaling up climate finance from billions to trillions from all sources". The hosts are joined by Sue Reid, Climate Finance Advisor at Global Optimism who is on the ground in Baku. Together, they discuss what outcomes to expect as negotiators race towards the finish line in the second and final week of COP29. Sue Reid shares her optimism at leading investors at the pinnacle of the finance food chain calling for the same commitments in climate and nature as leading civil society advocates and developing countries. The hosts and Sue talk about the critical importance of innovative mechanisms to achieve the climate financing needed and the outsized impact of public finance to leverage and enable private finance. NOTES AND RESOURCES GUEST Sue Reid, Climate Finance Advisor to Christiana Figueres at Global Optimism | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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273. COP29 Live: Bigger, Better, Bolder. Updating NDCs in Line with 1.5C
11/14/2024
273. COP29 Live: Bigger, Better, Bolder. Updating NDCs in Line with 1.5C
Recorded live from COP29 in the UK Pavilion in Baku, Bigger, Better, Bolder: Updating NDCs in Line with 1.5 Degrees captures an energetic dialogue on the crucial role of bold leadership in climate action. Moderated by Tom, this dynamic session dives into why governments must ambitiously update their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to meet the 1.5°C goal, recognizing this decade as a pivotal chance to shape a sustainable future. Kicking off with insights from Ed Miliband, the UK’s Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, we explore how the UK’s ambitious NDC exemplifies targets aligned with scientific guidelines, the public’s mandate, and the need for investment-ready, collaborative action. Tom also welcomes Emma Pinchbeck, CEO, Climate Change Committee and Russell Read, Lead Delegate, We Are Family Foundation to unpack how real-economy and societal stakeholders can drive meaningful NDC implementation. He talks to Nigel Topping, non-executive Director of the National Wealth Fund and Diana Layfield, Chair of British International Investment about the critical role business plays in inspiring investment and innovation both domestically and internationally. The session concludes as Ana Toni, Brazil’s National Secretary for Climate Change, joins Ed Miliband in a live Q&A, discussing how partnerships between major powers, such as Brazil and the UK, can accelerate global climate progress before the mid-decade tipping point. NOTES AND RESOURCES GUESTS The Rt Hon Ed Miliband MP, UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Emma Pinchbeck, CEO of Climate Change Committee Russell Reed, lead delegate for the We Are Family Foundation Nigel Topping, Non-exec director of National Wealth Fund and COP26 Climate Champion Diana Layfield, Chair of British International Investment HE Ana Toni, National Secretary for Climate Change at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, from Brazil as COP30 Presidency Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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272. COP29 Live: From Call to Action with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy
11/12/2024
272. COP29 Live: From Call to Action with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy
Recorded Live at the UK COP Pavilion and moderated by Tom, ‘From Call to Action: the Bridgetown Initiative and delivering Global Financial System Reform’ is an inspiring conversation between Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Foreign Secretary, UK, David Lammy. Mia Mottley called the world to action when she released the initial Bridgetown Initiative at UNGA in 2022. Now in its third iteration, the Bridgetown Initiative brings together an ambitious and holistic set of calls for reforms to make the Global Financial System more inclusive, more shock-responsive, and better scaled to meet the financing challenges and needs for developing countries. The UK is ready to stand up to face those challenges head-on. As a G7 country with the largest sustainable financial centre in the world, a track-record of delivering financial innovations and influencing the global debate, a key voice in the governance of the System, the UK has a strong track-record and platform to deliver. And deliver we must: the global financial system needs to deliver a fairer deal for developing countries. This conversation is a frank discussion between two leading voices to understand the problems, identify solutions, and drive reforms to create a world free of poverty on a liveable planet. Huge thanks goes to UK COP Pavilion for allowing us to use their audio recording of this conversation. To watch more live events from COP 29 make sure to follow their YouTube channel NOTES AND RESOURCES GUESTS The Honourable Mia Mottley, SC, MP, Prime Minister of Barbados | | | | The Rt Hon David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom | | | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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271. Getting Nature on the Balance Sheet
11/12/2024
271. Getting Nature on the Balance Sheet
This week, Paul and Tom are joined by Tony Goldner, from the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures. Tony helps make sense of what happened at the recent Biodiversity COP in Colombia and discusses the many ways that nature is starting to appear on business’ and regulators’ agendas. Companies are waking up to the fact that their resilience depends on the resilience of nature. Many companies are in the process of developing and setting long-term transition plans to net-zero. Tony explains that as biodiversity and nature-loss risks mount, businesses need to also consider that nature-based dependencies, risks, and mitigations should be put in place. NOTES AND RESOURCES GUEST Tony Goldner, TNFD Executive Director | with , Senior Director of Climate Strategy at Conservation International and , Climate Finance Advisor to Christiana Figueres at Global Optimism Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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270. What Does This Trump Presidency Mean for Climate?
11/07/2024
270. What Does This Trump Presidency Mean for Climate?
As the news of Donald Trump’s 2024 US election victory makes headlines around the world, Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac and Paul Dickinson unpack Trump and Harris’s campaign and discuss the implications of a Trump-led administration on US climate ambition, both domestically and internationally. Or as Tom puts it, “What the hell just happened in the US?” Join the hosts as they analyze potential shifts in policy, how business and finance could counterbalance federal setbacks, and what this means for COP29, NDCs, and global multilateral efforts. During their discussion, the hosts pose some crucial questions: how would a US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement impact global decarbonisation progress? What role will China play as the climate leadership landscape shifts? Amidst these turbulent times, we’re thrilled to inject a dose of much needed optimism by welcoming Congresswoman-Elect Yassamin Ansari to Outrage + Optimism. Fresh from her election to the US House of Representatives for Arizona’s 3rd District, Yassamin joins us with her inspiring perspective on leading progressive change at the federal level. Her election, which makes her the second ever Iranian American to be elected to Congress, brings hope for resilient climate leadership despite federal setbacks. NOTES AND RESOURCES GUEST Congresswoman-Elect Yassamin Ansari | | | | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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269. COP16: Making Peace with Nature?
10/31/2024
269. COP16: Making Peace with Nature?
This week, Christiana has a fascinating window into the Biodiversity COP negotiations underway in Colombia. From Cali, she’s joined by Freya Newman and Irene Suarez Perez from the Global Optimism team who give us the lowdown into what’s going on inside and outside the negotiating rooms. They tell what’s unique about Colombia hosting, how it’s given a platform to indigenous and local community voices; and why business is talking about love as well as finance. Also joining Christiana from Cali is Monica Medina, a fellow with Conservation International and the US’ first Special Envoy for Biodiversity. They have an animated chat about the essential interdependence of climate and biodiversity, and Medina shares her optimism about a new oceans fund. And they take a deep (and refreshingly nerdy!) dive into DSI - digital sequencing information - and how we can ensure lucrative genetic codes, often found in the Global South, are fairly compensated and reimbursed. NOTES AND RESOURCES GUESTS Monica Medina, Arnhold Distinguished Fellow at Conservation International, former Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans, Environment and Science and the first US Special Envoy for Biodiversity and Water Resources | | Irene Suarez Perez, Senior Advisor - Nature & Food System Transformation - Groundswell at Global Optimism , Advisor, Groundswell at Global Optimism Please fill out our Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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268. Rewilding The World with Ben Goldsmith and Stephen Fry
10/24/2024
268. Rewilding The World with Ben Goldsmith and Stephen Fry
This week, as part of our focus on biodiversity during COP 16, we're excited to share a special crossover episode! In the first part of this exciting episode, join Christiana, Tom, and Ben Goldsmith for an insightful conversation about rewilding and its global impact, followed by a full episode of Ben's inspiring podcast featuring UK national treasure, writer and actor, Stephen Fry. In his conversation with the hosts, Ben explores the concept of rewilding, its potential to reshape ecosystems worldwide, and the critical role grassroots community projects play in this movement. Ben Goldsmith is a pioneer in green investment and a driving force behind the rewilding movement in Britain and across Europe. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on the future of biodiversity and rewilding! NOTES AND RESOURCES GUEST Ben Goldsmith, co-founder and board member of Nattergal and host of Rewilding the World podcast | | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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267. The Rio Trio: A Cocktail of COPs
10/17/2024
267. The Rio Trio: A Cocktail of COPs
This week, our hosts dive into The Rio Trio! No, this is not the name of a new cocktail but three COPs (Biodiversity in Colombia, Climate in Azerbaijan and Desertification in Saudi Arabia) which are about to happen back-to-back. Plus the plastics treaty negotiations in South Korea. Join our hosts for their take on the history of these three different but interrelated COPs, all conceived in the Earth Summit in Rio in 1992. How have they evolved, and how might they continue to evolve to be fit for purpose in a changed world? Since this subject is complex, Christiana uses her get-out clause and phones a special friend for much-needed clarity. Christiana also asks the question: If we had a blank slate now, would it make more sense to kick start a process based on all ? Would this help us focus holistically on the interconnected challenges we face? Sit back and listen as the hosts try to make sense of this negotiating super season for the planet and all its peoples. Please keep tuned for special and in-depth coverage from the Outrage + Optimism team to guide you through each of these key moments. NOTES AND RESOURCES GUEST , President, Foundation for Global Governance and Sustainability and former senior official at the UN Climate Change Secretariat (UNFCCC) from 1993 to 2017. He served as Deputy Executive Secretary from 2006 to 2017 and was intimately involved in the development of UNFCCC as an organization from its establishment and in its management and operations. Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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266. Is it OK to Have Children in a Climate Crisis?
10/15/2024
266. Is it OK to Have Children in a Climate Crisis?
In the final episode of our How to Live a Good Life series, Tom, Paul and Christiana discuss the personal quandary of whether or not to have children in the midst of what appears to be significant climate breakdown. The questions they ponder are complex and philosophical: should we bring children into a world that is, some might say, collapsing? Would you consider having children is immoral, since more people living on the planet leads to greater consumption and emissions, thus exacerbating the problem? Or is having a child the greatest act of hope for the future that anyone can choose to make? The hosts approach this issue from different perspectives, opening up about their personal lives and addressing questions and comments sent in by listeners. We hope to offer you some clarity on this topic, or at least some comfort that even the greatest minds in the climate space sometimes have to take leaps of faith. This is the final episode in the series. We really hope you have enjoyed these episodes. As always, we would love to hear from you so please get in touch. NOTES AND RESOURCES The Guardian, September 2021 , The Guardian, May 2024 : Data from Population Matters Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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265. Monster Hurricanes are Caused by Them
10/12/2024
265. Monster Hurricanes are Caused by Them
Newsflash: In this urgent episode recorded on Friday, October 11th, Tom, Paul, and Christiana come together to discuss the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The hosts express their frustration with the conspiracy theories circulating in the wake of the latest hurricane Milton - at a time when solidarity is needed most. They also dive into the harsh reality that the fossil fuel industry lies at the heart of the destruction. In This Episode: The hosts break down the undeniable science linking man-made global warming to the increasing intensity of hurricanes around the world. As private insurers withdraw from Florida, leaving homeowners and businesses without coverage, the hosts examine the crisis' wide-reaching effects, particularly on the most vulnerable populations. A deep dive into the dangerous disinformation spread by key Republican figures, tracing the real cause of man-made extreme weather back to the fossil fuel industry. The episode closes with sincere condolences for those across the globe who have lost lives and livelihoods due to extreme weather events. Join us for an insightful conversation on climate accountability, disinformation, and the forces fueling these devastating changes to our environment. NOTES AND RESOURCES Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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264. What Should I Eat in a Climate Crisis?
10/10/2024
264. What Should I Eat in a Climate Crisis?
SHOW NOTES: In the penultimate episode of our How to Live a Good Life in a Climate Crisis, our hosts talk about food and food systems. How can we enjoy meals while eating responsibly? Tom, Paul and Christiana find it difficult to digest our lopsided relationship with food, in which more than two billion people face food insecurity and a third of all food goes to waste. The conversation is free-range - the hosts reveal what shaped their own rituals around eating. They look at how humanity’s relationship with food went from trust to anxiety, from abundance to scarcity. They argue the merits of different veggie burgers. About a third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions is linked to food. To limit global warming while feeding a growing population, every part of the food system - from farming to refrigeration - must become cleaner and more efficient. NOTES AND RESOURCES Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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263. What Career Should I Have in a Climate Crisis?
10/08/2024
263. What Career Should I Have in a Climate Crisis?
Welcome to the third episode in our How to Live a Good Life in a Climate Crisis series, where our hosts grapple with some of the fiercest climate conundrums we face. This week, Tom, Paul and Christiana look at the issue of careers and ask - would you move jobs in response to the climate crisis? Is changing your job your most effective form of climate action? They explore what to look for if you’re attempting to use your career to scale up climate solutions. And they pose the biggie: is there even such a thing as a climate change job and a non-climate change job? Taking a moment to discuss their own careers, the hosts share what they’ve learnt about innovation, interns, and how chair-making can pave the way to the UN! We’d love to hear what your experiences are… Please do get in touch. NOTES AND RESOURCES Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - !Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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262. Is it OK to Fly in a Climate Crisis?
10/03/2024
262. Is it OK to Fly in a Climate Crisis?
Is it OK to Fly in a Climate Crisis? In episode 2 of our How To Live A Good Life in a Climate Crisis series, the hosts grapple with one of most divisive issues for those concerned with climate change - is it ok to fly, when flying is responsible for the bulk of our personal carbon footprints, and when 80% of the world never sets foot on a plane? Tom, Paul and Christiana dive into this thorny issue from three different perspectives. Putting forward the case for and against flying, the hosts touch on the miracle of flying, the potential of sustainable aviation fuels and offsets, and the joys of train travel! They hope that these tricky conversations will be a springboard for further and deeper conversations for listeners. NOTES AND RESOURCES : navigating public opinion on aviation and climate Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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261. How to Live a Good Life in a Climate Crisis - Introduction
10/03/2024
261. How to Live a Good Life in a Climate Crisis - Introduction
In episode 1 of our How To Live A Good Life in a Climate Crisis series, the Outrage + Optimism hosts introduce you to their new mini series and discuss how they define a good life. For the next few weeks, Tom, Paul and Christiana will explore questions that you, the listeners, have asked us to address, around what it means to live a good life at this pivotal moment, facing uncertainty and judgments. They’ll talk about whether we should fly, what we eat, how to enjoy a meaningful career and whether or not we should have children. This free ranging discussion attempts to shine a light on the interplay between the largest issue facing humanity - the climate crisis - and the difference each of us can make. Although this series concerns itself with individual action, part of our role is to call on governments and other institutions to precipitate systemic change. Please don’t expect any right or wrong answers! Tom, Paul and Christiana will not prescribe you the ingredients for the perfect life! They will share their own insights, stories and struggles. And after listening there’s a good chance you might feel more confused - we only hope you’ll be confused at a deeper level. We’d love to hear what you think. NOTES AND RESOURCES Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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The Deep Time Walk: Celebrating Stephan Harding 1953-2024
10/01/2024
The Deep Time Walk: Celebrating Stephan Harding 1953-2024
Since Dr Stephan Harding passed away in September 2024, he has been deeply mourned by the climate community, many of whom have been touched and inspired by his life and work. In honour of his extraordinary contributions to our understanding of this beautiful planet, we’re re-releasing the Deep Time Walk, narrated by Stephan, and which has already been downloaded over a million times. This re-release includes an introduction by hosts Paul and Tom, and Tom’s eulogy, which he shared at Stephan’s memorial service on 30th September. Stephan Harding was a founding member of Schumacher College where he was a Deep Ecology Research Fellow, celebrated teacher and author. As a celebration of this remarkable and beloved man, we hope you enjoy his history of Gaia, told through immersive sound. We encourage you to set aside time to sit comfortably, relax, and learn to “walk well into the life of Gaia” as Stephan puts it. Stephan has had a massive influence on the climate movement, inspiring global leaders to shift their world view towards a Gaian view. We have the privilege of sharing an exercise of that shift with all of you. Enjoy and RIP Dr Stephan Harding. — Christiana + Tom’s book is available now! — Mentioned links from the episode: DOWNLOAD: The CHECK OUT: The LEARN MORE: Dr. Stephan Harding Deep Ecology Research Fellow | Senior Lecturer in Holistic Science Author of and LINKS: Schumacher College | | | Deep Time Walk — Keep up with Christiana Figueres here: | Tom Rivett-Carnac: | | Paul Dickinson: | — Follow @GlobalOptimism on social media and send us a message! | | | Don't forget to hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss another episode of Outrage + Optimism!
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Trailer: How To Live A Good Life In A Climate Crisis
10/01/2024
Trailer: How To Live A Good Life In A Climate Crisis
How to Live a Good Life in a Climate Crisis The Outrage + Optimism team are excited to bring you a series that confronts the big questions we ask ourselves whilst living in a climate crisis. Join hosts Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett Carnac and Paul Dickinson as they grapple with issues like what we should eat, whether we should fly, and how to live with purpose and joy in these uncertain and overwhelming times. First and second episodes released on 3 October.
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260. The UK is Back! with David Lammy
09/28/2024
260. The UK is Back! with David Lammy
In this special weekend edition of the podcast, hosts Tom, Christiana, and Paul catch up with The Rt Hon David Lammy, the UK’s new Secretary of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Office. In a fascinating conversation, they delve into his decision to place climate change at the heart of his first major speech as Foreign Secretary and discuss why he sees the climate emergency as a national security issue. The Foreign Secretary expresses his outrage at recent trends which have seen climate change used as a political ping pong issue and shares insights into how we might build consensus across parties on the climate and nature agenda. The hosts also take a moment to congratulate him on the appointment of friend of the podcast, Rachel Kyte, as the UK’s new Climate Envoy. Tune in to hear the full conversation and discover why the Foreign Secretary’s answers convince the hosts that the UK is once again a global leader in climate action.Make sure to tune in Thursday October 3rd to our brand new five-part series called How To Live a Good Life in a Climate Crisis. Exploring dilemmas around issues like flying, food and parenting, the hosts explore how we might still have meaningful and good lives amidst the overwhelm and turmoil of the climate crisis. NOTES AND RESOURCES GUEST The Rt Hon David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom | | | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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259. Live! From Climate Week NYC with Mission 2025
09/26/2024
259. Live! From Climate Week NYC with Mission 2025
In this special episode, our hosts are live at Climate Week New York, joined onstage by a stellar line-up of influential voices from government, the private sector, science, civil society and academia. This flagship event highlights how transformative climate strategies can be supercharged. The conversation centers on the push for ‘positive tipping points’ across three key themes: energy, nature & food, and finance. Supported by Mission 2025 Partners and convened by Groundswell – a collaboration between Global Optimism, Bezos Earth Fund, and Systems Change Lab – alongside the Climate Group, the event showcases leaders from various sectors driving impactful change. Mission 2025 is a coalition of bold leaders, including mayors, governors, CEOs, investors, athletes, musicians, and everyday citizens, all rallying governments to strengthen their national climate commitments (Nationally Determined Contributions) in alignment with the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Known as the 'Defenders of Paris,' Mission 2025 Partners arrived at Climate Week NYC with exciting updates. New organizations are stepping up to support governments in setting more ambitious climate plans, accelerating action that can unlock trillions in private investment, boost renewable energy, help industries thrive in a low-carbon economy, and ensure equitable living standards for all. Tune in to hear the latest from Climate Week NYC and how global leaders are working together to shape a sustainable future! NOTES AND RESOURCES GUESTS Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change | Jennifer Morgan, Special Envoy for International Climate Action | Tim Lenton, Professor of Earth System Science at University of Exeter Veena Balakrishnan, Political Scientist, Intersectional Environmentalist. Co - Founder, Youth Negotiators Academy | | Renata Koch Alvarenga, Disaster Risk Financing Specialist, World Bank I Master of Public Policy, Harvard University I Founder and Executive Director, EmpoderaClima | | Vaishali Nigam Sinha, Co-Founder of ReNew and Chairperson Sustainability | Günther Thallinger, Member of the Board of Management of Allianz SE, Investment Management, Sustainability Peter Bakker, President & CEO at World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) | Helen Clarkson, Chief Executive Officer at Climate Group | Nigar Arpadarai, Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP29 | | HE Ana Toni, National Secretary for Climate Change at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, from Brazil as COP30 Presidency | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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258. The Climate Pledge Turns Five
09/19/2024
258. The Climate Pledge Turns Five
This week, The Climate Pledge turns five and Tom and Christiana talk to Kara Hurst, Chief Sustainability Officer at Amazon, to reflect on the journey of this initiative co-founded by Amazon and Global Optimism. At the top of the episode, Tom and Christiana anticipate the frantic and sometimes frustrating weeks ahead in this hectic period for those working in climate, and as wild weather continues to wreak havoc, Christiana and Tom invite us to pause for a moment. How can we listen and better contribute? How can we roll up our sleeves - with hope - and get to work on having a positive impact and building momentum? In their thoughtful interview with Kara, the hosts reflect on how The Climate Pledge has grown over the last five years to over 500 signatories - companies who share an ambition to innovate, accelerate joint action and collaborate across sectors to get to net zero carbon emissions by 2040, ten years earlier than the Paris Agreement. Kara, Tom and Christiana discuss the specific challenges companies face and the solutions and strategies they’re adopting to meet targets. Sharing failures has been just as valuable as sharing successes because, as Tom points out, none of us have decarbonised the global economy before. Unafraid to go deep, they question how we would reduce emissions and redesign society if we kept in mind the earth’s atmosphere. NOTES AND RESOURCES Outrage + Optimism, Live at Climate Week NYC Event Title: Event Details: Tuesday 24th September, 12:00 - 13:00 ET, Glasshouse (NYC) Event Description: Mission 2025 is a coalition of courageous leaders - mayors, governors, CEOs, investors, athletes, musicians and citizens - who are inviting governments to ratchet upcoming national climate plans (known as Nationally Determined Contributions) in line with the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to 1.5C. Described as ‘Defenders of Paris’, Mission 2025 Partners arrive at Climate Week New York with a major update of new organizations who are ready to embolden governments to set more ambitious plans and accelerate implementation because they know this can unlock trillions in private investment, scale cheap renewable energy, support industries to compete in a low carbon economy, and safeguard living standards equitably for our people. As a live recorded Outrage + Optimism podcast, this flagship event will demonstrate how these plans can be upgraded by showcasing government and real economy leaders who are driving towards ‘positive tipping points’ across the three themes of energy, nature & food, and finance. The event is supported by the Mission 2025 Partners and convened by Groundswell – a collaboration between Global Optimism, Bezos Earth Fund and Systems Change Lab – together with the Climate Group. Registering: Please reach out to [email protected] if you are interested in joining this event GUEST Kara Hurst, Chief Sustainability Officer at Amazon | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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257. What If We Get It Right?
09/12/2024
257. What If We Get It Right?
This week, Christiana shares her awe and admiration for the athletes at Paris’ Paralympics after being lucky enough to experience some of the games first-hand. Can these incredible athletes inspire us to think and act differently on climate change? As global barometers measure the hottest August ever recorded, the hosts talk about extreme heat and its impact on children - affecting their health, their education and even placing them at increased risk of child marriage. Tom quizzes Paul and Christiana about the events of 12th January 1882 (hint: coal-fired power stations) and celebrates the news that the UK will close its last coal-fired power station later this month. Paul meanwhile is emphatic that nations and businesses need A Plan to Decarbonise. This week, Christiana is in conversation with , a marine biologist, policy expert and writer. Ayana co-founded the non-profit think tank , co-edited the bestselling climate anthology , and was the co-host of the podcast. Her upcoming anthology is . Christiana and Ayana discuss the ocean’s bounty of climate solutions; renewable offshore energy, carbon-absorbing wetlands and mangroves, and seaweeds and shellfish to feed people. GUEST , Marine Biologist, Policy Expert, and Writer | | | You can preorder the book, For more information, subscribe to the where the new podcast will be launching! NOTES AND RESOURCES BBC, July 2024 , Copernicus Climate Change Service, September 2024 , Euronews, September 2024 , UNICEF report, August 2024 , December 2023 , FT, September 2024 Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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256. We're Back! With a Cascade of Climate News
09/05/2024
256. We're Back! With a Cascade of Climate News
Welcome back to Season 10! With the hosts together again following our break, Tom, Paul and Christiana are bursting with news and analysis. Up for discussion this week, the hosts try to understand why the Democrats haven’t been talking much about climate change and what drives Kamala Harris’ outrage and optimism. They delve deeper into the UK’s new Labour Government’s plans around energy, nature and climate change. Plus the hosts scan the horizon for the consequential moments in climate policy, with UNGA, Climate Week NYC and two COPs hurtling towards us. NOTES AND RESOURCES Outrage + Optimism, Live at Climate Week NYC Event Title: Event Details: Tuesday 24th September, 12:00 - 13:00 ET, Glasshouse (NYC) Event Description: Mission 2025 is a coalition of courageous leaders - mayors, governors, CEOs, investors, athletes, musicians and citizens - who are inviting governments to ratchet upcoming national climate plans (known as Nationally Determined Contributions) in line with the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to 1.5C. Described as ‘Defenders of Paris’, Mission 2025 Partners arrive at Climate Week New York with a major update of new organizations who are ready to embolden governments to set more ambitious plans and accelerate implementation because they know this can unlock trillions in private investment, scale cheap renewable energy, support industries to compete in a low carbon economy, and safeguard living standards equitably for our people. As a live recorded Outrage+Optimism podcast, this flagship event will demonstrate how these plans can be upgraded by showcasing government and real economy leaders who are driving towards ‘positive tipping points’ across the three themes of energy, nature & food, and finance. The event is supported by the Mission 2025 Partners and convened by Groundswell – a collaboration between Global Optimism, Bezos Earth Fund and Systems Change Lab – together with the Climate Group. Registering: Please reach out to [email protected] if you are interested in joining this event CNN, June 2024 BBC, August 2024 - Monmouth University Poll, May 2024 Carbon Brief Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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255. US Election Special: Is a Win for Harris a Win for Climate?
07/23/2024
255. US Election Special: Is a Win for Harris a Win for Climate?
Newsflash: In an emergency podcast session recorded on Monday, July 22nd, we delve into President Biden’s announcement that he will not seek re-election. Following his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Presidential Nominee, we bring you a comprehensive analysis of this pivotal moment in U.S. politics. In this episode: Kamala Harris’s Strong Record on Climate Action: A deep dive into her achievements and policies aimed at combating climate change. President Biden’s Climate Legacy: Reflecting on the significant environmental strides made during his tenure as he enters his final six months in office. Election Speculation: Could Harris defeat Trump? Is America ready for its first Black female president? We discuss the potential outcomes and implications of this historic candidacy. Optimism for the Future: Assessing the prospects of a Harris victory and what it could mean for climate action and environmental policies. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates throughout the summer. Send in your questions and topics you'd like us to cover next season. NOTES AND RESOURCES Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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254. Elections Roundup
07/09/2024
254. Elections Roundup
In this week's Election Special Roundup, our hosts delve into Labour’s recent victory in the UK, offering detailed analysis tailored for both UK and non-UK listeners. They cover the key events and implications from both before and after the election, providing a comprehensive overview of the political landscape. Highlights: Labour’s Win in the UK: In-depth discussion on Labour's success, including the factors leading to their victory and its potential impact on the UK political scene as well as key figures in Starmer’s cabinet that will play a key role in climate going forward. UK and French Elections: Celebration of the defeat of far-right factions in both countries, examining the broader implications for European politics. US Politics: A brief look at the challenges facing the Democratic Party, especially in light of President Biden’s underwhelming performance in his recent televised debate with former President Trump. Season Finale: As we wrap up this season, we want to thank our listeners for their support. Have an amazing summer holiday, and we look forward to returning in September with more discussions on climate action, political debates, and much more. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates over the summer. Send in your questions and topics you'd like us to cover next season. See You in September! NOTES AND RESOURCES Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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253. Mid-2024 Climate Review: How Are We Doing?
07/04/2024
253. Mid-2024 Climate Review: How Are We Doing?
In our penultimate episode of the season, hosts Christiana, Tom, and Paul delve into a reflection on the year 2024 so far. This episode takes a deep dive into recent events, including London Climate Action Week, the global political landscape, and the clean energy transformation, all viewed through a climate lens. Optimistic Outlook: Christiana shares positive news about upcoming trade agreements involving Costa Rica, Switzerland, Iceland, and New Zealand, which aim to eliminate tariffs on environmental goods. Looking Ahead: The hosts speculate on what the latter half of the year might bring for climate action and global policies as we anticipate UNGA, New York Climate Week, COP 16 and COP 29 to name but a few. Upcoming Episode: We will be back for a short episode early next week, dedicated to understanding the election results in the UK and France. Farewell for Now: The hosts and the O+O team wish you a restful summer holiday. Stay connected for announcements and content on our social media channels as we take a brief break from the airwaves. Thank you for tuning in! NOTES AND RESOURCES article from the Economist as mentioned by Tom of the trade agreement between Costa Rica, New Zealand, Iceland and Switzerland as mentioned by Christiana UK Citizen? French Citizen? Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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252. Mission 2025: It's Time For Leaders To Lead (Recorded Live!)
06/29/2024
252. Mission 2025: It's Time For Leaders To Lead (Recorded Live!)
This week, we recorded live from London Climate Action Week at the Mission 2025 launch event. Tom Rivett-Carnac was joined by guests Andrew Steer (Bezos Earth Fund), Adair Turner (ETC), Isabelle Noero (Earthrise), Hein Schumacher (Unilever), Tamsin Ballard (PRI), Karen Pflug (INGKA Group) and Nigar Arpadarai (COP29 Champion). Hear their conversations about how to act on climate with speed and scale. Moving faster on tackling the climate crisis is too difficult, too unpopular or too expensive, right? Wrong! This week of business, mayors, investors, health leaders, athletes, youth activists, scientists and citizens was launched to call on governments to move even faster on climate action. Over 20 organisations have joined Mission 2025, to say: "We are ready to embolden governments to set more ambitious plans and accelerate implementation. We know this can unlock trillions in private investment to protect our nature, scale cheap renewable energy, support industries to compete in a low carbon economy, and safeguard living standards equitably for our people." Mission 2025 is a much needed effort to for this transition to happen at the speed and scale required, and with the equity deserved. Because holding the line on 1.5°C is not an aspirational target – it is a scientific imperative. We hope you enjoy this lively conversation! NOTES AND RESOURCES GUESTS Andrew Steer, President and CEO of the | | Lord Adair Turner, Chair of the | Isabella Noero, Head of Collaborative Partnerships at | Hein Schumacher, CEO of Tamsin Ballard, Chief Initiatives Officer at Karen Pflug, Chief Sustainability Officer at | Nigar Arpadarai, | Learn more about the . It’s official, we’re a TED Audio Collective Podcast - ! Check out more podcasts from Please follow us on social media! | |
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Presenting: 'We Are The Great Turning'
06/26/2024
Presenting: 'We Are The Great Turning'
This week, something unique for our listeners from the podcast 'We Are The Great Turning'. As Joanna Macy approaches the end of a long life dedicated to healing our imperiled planet, she begins the conversation with Jessica Serrante, her student and dear friend, “standing afresh with what it’s like to live on Earth at this moment.” As we look into the face of the climate crisis, injustice, and war, difficult feelings arise; all are welcomed. You are invited to join them at Joanna’s kitchen table, and invited into a deeper sense of your belonging and love for our world. In this episode: How to connect with the great possibilities that still exist for us even in these precarious times Joanna reflects on her awakening of environmental consciousness Jess reflects on how meeting Joanna changed her life Love, laughter, heartbreak, and the Work That Reconnects We recommend starting a with friends or family to do these practices together. Links and assets to help prompt reflection and build community can be found with every episode on . Website: RSS feed subscription links: +
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