Citizens' Climate Lobby

We highlight two powerful voices shaping the climate conversation—Elise Silvestri, a college student and musician passionate about climate justice, and Linda Sue Park, an award-winning author using storytelling to inspire young activists. Elise, who has worked on the Citizens Climate Radio team for six months, shares her journey through eco-anxiety, activism, and music production. She believes that addressing the climate crisis requires radical imagination—envisioning the world we want to create rather than just reacting to the crises around us. Elise also introduces us to Linda Sue Park, whose latest book, Gracie Under the Waves, follows a young snorkeling enthusiast as she discovers the urgent need for ocean conservation. Facing Eco Anxiety with Imagination and Action Elise Silvestri knows firsthand the overwhelming anxiety that can come from thinking about climate change. Like many young activists, she has struggled with fears about the future, moments of paralysis, and the emotional weight of the crisis. In this episode, Elise shares how she transformed her eco-anxiety into action—first through climate organizing with the Sunrise Movement and later through audio engineering and music production. "I consider the climate crisis a crisis of imagination. We are stuck in a status quo that hangs us high and dry. We must be bold and imagine a world that we are excited to wake up in." —Elise Silvestri By blending her passion for music with climate activism, Elise has found ways to build resilience for herself and the communities she works with. From powering live sound stages with solar energy to using podcasting as a medium for climate storytelling, Elise exemplifies the power of creativity in climate advocacy. Linda Sue Park on Finding Your Climate Passion Newbery Medal-winning author Linda Sue Park joins the conversation to discuss Gracie Under the Waves, her latest book for young readers. Inspired by her love for snorkeling, the book follows Gracie’s growing awareness of coral reef degradation and its broader implications for the health of our oceans. "Gracie's journey parallels my own. At first, I just wanted to snorkel. Then I realized that the coral reefs were imperiled, and I had to do something." —Linda Sue Park. Linda encourages young readers to find their own path into climate activism by connecting their passions to climate justice. Whether through art, science, writing, or community work, she believes that the most effective advocacy comes from personal investment. "There are many ways to help our planet. The most effective way is to connect it to something you already love—because then your enthusiasm is genuine, and you won’t get tired of talking about it." —Linda Sue Park. Learn more: https://lindasuepark.com/ The Power of Community and Collaboration In their conversation, Elise and Linda emphasize the importance of community in climate activism. Linda notes that for too long, Western culture has celebrated rugged individualism—but collaboration is essential when it comes to the climate crisis. "For a very long time, children's books emphasized the idea of solving problems alone. But that time has passed. We are stronger when we work together." —Linda Sue Park. Elise echoes this sentiment, recalling how her work with Sunrise Movement helped her feel less alone in her climate anxiety. By finding a community, she could channel her fear into tangible action. Join the Conversation What motivates you to take climate action? How have you navigated eco-anxiety in your own life? We'd love to hear your story! 📩 Email us at [email protected] 📞 Call or text our listener voicemail line: (619) 512-9646 💬 Follow us on Instagram, X, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok (@citizensclimateradio) 🎧 Listen to the full episode now! Avatar Photo by Belle Co

Danielle Watson manages American Forests’ climate policy portfolio, focusing on programs, policies, and funding that empowers those who steward state, private, and Tribal lands. She also supports policy and government relations needs for American Forests' Tree Equity and Resilient Forests programs. Prior to joining American Forests, Watson worked for over a decade in the forest policy arena with the Society of American Foresters. On CCL's February call, she discussed American Forests' work and their support of the new bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act.

In the eighth and final episode of Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos, we bring together a powerhouse panel of conservative leaders and thinkers to reflect on the series and chart a path forward. Former Republican Congressman Bob Inglis, Chelsea Henderson (host of EcoRight Speaks), and Katie Zakrzewski and Zach Torpie (hosts of Green Tea Party Radio) join host Peterson Toscano to explore cultural and political factors shaping the conservative climate movement. Later, Peterson speaks with Drew Eyerly, Citizens Climate Lobby’s Conservative Outreach Director, about how conservatives are creating solutions and opportunities for climate action. This episode provides insights, inspiration, and a roadmap for bipartisan collaboration on climate solutions. Featured Guests: Bob Inglis: Former Republican Congressman and Executive Director of republicEn.org. Bob is a recipient of the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award and a prominent voice in conservative climate action. He appears in the acclaimed documentary Merchants of Doubt, which examines the role of misinformation in climate skepticism. Chelsea Henderson: Director of Editorial Content at republicEn.org, host of the EcoRight Speaks podcast, and author of Glacial: The Inside Story of Climate Politics. Chelsea is a seasoned advocate for bipartisan climate solutions with nearly 25 years of experience bridging divides on Capitol Hill. Katie Zakrzewski: Co-host of Green Tea Party Radio, journalist, and environmental advocate. Katie highlights the economic and national security implications of climate action, emphasizing the importance of engaging young conservatives in the climate conversation. Zach Torpie: Environmental engineer and co-host of Green Tea Party Radio. Zach focuses on pragmatic climate solutions and envisions an America that leads the way in addressing climate challenges while preserving natural beauty and economic stability. Drew Eyerly: Conservative Outreach Director for Citizens Climate Lobby. Drew’s climate advocacy is fueled by his desire to create a sustainable future for his daughter. He champions economic and national security benefits of climate action and leads efforts to engage conservative voices in climate policy. Compelling Quotes: Bob Inglis: “Very few people are still arguing with thermometers. The challenge now is showing people there are solutions that align with conservative values.” Chelsea Henderson: “We can’t think about climate change as just an environmental issue—it’s an economic issue, a national security issue, and a pro-life issue.” Drew Eyerly: “Every issue is an opportunity. Climate action can stimulate the economy, create jobs, and strengthen national security.” Links and Resources Mentioned: republicEn.org – Learn more about Bob Inglis and Chelsea Henderson’s work. EcoRight Speaks Podcast – Hosted by Chelsea Henderson, exploring conservative climate perspectives. Green Tea Party Radio – A weekly podcast hosted by Katie Zakrzewski and Zach Torpie, showcasing conservative climate solutions. Citizens Climate Conservatives – Engage with conservative climate advocates at Citizens Climate Lobby. Merchants of Doubt – Documentary featuring Bob Inglis, available online and through major streaming platforms. Episode Highlights: A deep dive into the cultural, political, and economic factors shaping conservative climate solutions. The panel discusses the role of misinformation, cultural apathy, and economic fears in delaying climate action. Reflections on missed opportunities and reasons for optimism moving forward. Drew Eyerly shares how conservatives can leverage their values to lead on climate solutions, emphasizing bipartisan collaboration. Credits: Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos is a production of Citizens Climate Radio, a project of Citizens Climate Education. Research and Editorial Team: Horace Mo, Lily Russian, Peterson Toscano, Flannery Winchester, Elise Silvestri, and Brett Cease. Production: Peterson Toscano with Elise Silvestri. Music: Epidemic Sound and Elise Silvestri. Disclaimer: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of Citizens Climate Education. Listen to the Full Series: Visit Citizens Climate Radio or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

CCL Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli examines the data volunteers can use to advocate for preserving the Inflation Reduction Act. This includes a discussion about the various provisions included in the IRA and the relative importance of each, the political climate in which those provisions find themselves, and a new database of IRA-funded clean energy projects and manufacturing facilities by Congressional District and State that CCL volunteers can use for lobbying and grasstops outreach efforts.

In this penultimate episode of Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos, we expand our focus beyond the United States to explore the global landscape of climate skepticism. Climate denial is not just an American phenomenon but takes on unique forms in different nations, influenced by cultural, political, and economic factors. We compare the deeply entrenched skepticism in the U.S. with the varied approaches seen in countries like China, Germany, Australia, and South Korea, shedding light on what drives climate attitudes worldwide. Featuring insights from four dynamic voices, this episode delves into how media, education, and policy influence public perception, and what lessons can be learned from global successes and failures in addressing climate change. Key Topics Covered: The roots of climate skepticism in the United States and its global parallels. How countries like Germany and South Korea have avoided widespread denial while the U.S. and Australia continue to struggle. The transformative power of education and infrastructure, as seen in China’s rapid advancements. Faith and climate action in the U.S., with a focus on how the Catholic Church has responded to Laudato Si’. Conservative approaches to climate solutions and the role of young conservatives in shifting the conversation. Featured Guests: Katie Zakrzewski: Co-host of Green Tea Party Radio and a young conservative from the South, Katie provides a deep dive into climate skepticism in the U.S. and contrasts it with Europe and beyond. Horace Mo: Former Citizens Climate Radio intern, Horace shares his experiences growing up in China and reflects on the nation’s ambitious strides in renewable energy and urban planning. Jose Aguto: Climate advocate and former Associate Director of the Catholic Climate Covenant, Jose discusses the global Catholic response to climate change and the unique challenges faced by the U.S. Church. Zach Torpie: Co-host of Green Tea Party Radio, Zach highlights how young conservatives are driving forward-thinking climate solutions and pushing for energy independence through renewables. Compelling Quotes: “In China, climate education is part of the curriculum from an early age. It’s consistent and woven into what we learn about the world.” — Horace Mo “The broader cultural divides in the U.S. affect how climate action is viewed even within faith communities.” — Jose Aguto “Young conservatives see renewables as competitive, low-impact, and a way to outcompete China in the global market.” — Zach Torpie Organizations and Resources Mentioned: Citizens’ Climate Lobby Action Page: cclusa.org/action Catholic Climate Covenant: catholicclimatecovenant.org Green Tea Party Radio: Available wherever you get podcasts. Yale Program on Climate Change Communication: climatecommunication.yale.edu BTS Center’s Climate Changed Podcast: Visit Climate Changed Podcast Join the Conversation Engage with other listeners and share your thoughts on our social media channels. Follow and connect with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok. Tune in next month for more inspiring stories, expert insights, and actionable climate solutions. Together, we can make a difference, one story at a time. We Want to Hear from You Email: radio @ citizensclimate.org Text/Voicemail: 619-512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA.) Credits Research: Horace Mo Mo, Lily Rushen, Peterson Toscano Editorial Assistance: Flannery Winchester, Elise Silvestri, Brett Cease Production: Peterson Toscano, Elise Silvestri Music: Our theme music is Chasing Stories by Elise Silvestri. Other music byEpidemic Sound.

Lucero Marquez is the associate director for federal climate policy at American Progress. She previously worked as a research consultant for the Evans School Policy Analysis and Research Group investigating development policy through a climate change lens and as an air dispersion modeler for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. She earned her Bachelor of Science in meteorology from Texas A&M University and her Master of Public Administration in environmental policy from the University of Washington. The Inflation Reduction Act's investment in manufacturing and clean energy jobs is starting to pay off, and millions of individuals are benefiting from tax credits to help transition to clean energy. Lucero and CCL Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli for a discuss the importance of the Inflation Reduction Act and why we need to keep its climate provisions intact in 2025.

In Hot Mess Part Six: Snowballs, Skepticism, and Climate Lies, we uncover the deliberate tactics used to mislead the public about climate change, highlighting key players like the Koch brothers and Senator James Inhofe, alongside truth-tellers like former Representative Bob Inglis. The episode examines how misinformation campaigns, economic fearmongering, and symbolic stunts, such as Senator Inhofe’s infamous snowball moment, undermined climate science and bipartisan efforts for climate solutions. Featuring insights from guests Chelsea Henderson and Katie Zakrzewski, the episode delves into the emotional and cultural barriers to climate action and explores how understanding these dynamics can foster a path toward bipartisan collaboration and meaningful solutions. Guest Profiles Chelsea Henderson Host of EcoRight Speaks Podcast and author of The Inside Story of Climate Politics. Chelsea provides in-depth analysis of how the Koch brothers funded a web of organizations to sow doubt about climate science and resist regulatory action. Katie Zakrzewski Co-host of Green Tea Party Radio. Katie critiques how Senator Inhofe’s snowball stunt became a rallying cry for climate denial and explores the emotional resonance of his rhetoric with conservative audiences. Representative Bob Inglis Former Republican Congressman from South Carolina and Executive Director of RepublicEn. Bob shares his personal journey from climate skeptic to advocate, emphasizing how conservative values align with environmental stewardship. Compelling Quotes Chelsea Henderson: "The Koch brothers conned millions into believing polluters shouldn’t be held accountable for their pollution while everyday Americans pick up the tab." Katie Zakrzewski: "He sure did undo 30 to 50 years of science by throwing a snowball. It’s the equivalent of saying world hunger isn’t real because I just ate lunch." Representative Bob Inglis: "Protecting the vulnerable is loving God and loving people. Surely, that’s what climate action is about." Groups, Resources, and Historical Moments Referenced Organizations: RepublicEn Green Tea Party Radio Citizens Climate Lobby Action Page Union of Concerned Scientists Historical Moments: Senator James Inhofe’s snowball stunt (2015) The Koch brothers’ influence from the Kyoto Protocol (1997) to the present Media: C-SPAN for archival footage of Senator Inhofe’s snowball incident Michelle Malkin’s Hot Air show for Inhofe’s comments on Al Gore and climate change

Join CCL staff for a training that will unveil the updated Film Screening Guide resource and walk through how CCL chapters have used screenings to attract their community for discussions on climate and clean energy solutions. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (3:23) Why Host A Screening and Resources (6:27) Setting Up The Venue & Social Actions (15:03) Introducing The Week (24:45) Introducing True False Hot Cold Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/film-screening-slides Film Screening Guides: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/307

This episode of Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Led to Political Chaos explores the emotional and psychological forces that fueled climate skepticism and the role of media and fossil fuel interests in amplifying doubt. It examines how the once bipartisan approach to climate action fractured, with key players like conservative media and environmental activists shaping public perceptions. The episode highlights how emotional manipulation and misinformation campaigns delayed meaningful climate action and offers insights into reclaiming the narrative for a bipartisan path forward. Guest Descriptions Chelsea Henderson Host of RepublicEn's Eco Right Speaks Podcast. Author of Glacial: The Untold Story of Climate Politics. Chelsea provides a deep dive into the role of conservative media in spreading climate skepticism and the political challenges surrounding cap-and-trade policies. Katie Zakrzewski Co-host of Green Tea Party Radio. Katie discusses how fear-based environmental messaging and divisive protest strategies alienated potential allies, leading to unintended negative impacts. Links to Organizations Mentioned RepublicEn: https://republicen.org Home of Eco Right Speaks Podcast. Green Tea Party Radio: https://greenteapartyradio.com Union of Concerned Scientists: https://www.ucsusa.org Citizens Climate Education: https://citizensclimateeducation.org Inside Climate News: https://insideclimatenews.org The Guardian’s Climate Reporting: https://theguardian.com/environment Three Compelling Quotes Chelsea Henderson: "Rush Limbaugh didn’t just challenge climate science; he weaponized it to dismantle bipartisan efforts, turning climate action into a partisan battleground." Katie Zakreski: "Fear-based environmental messaging created not action but paralysis—fueling despair rather than empowering solutions." Peterson Toscano: "By exploiting our emotional vulnerabilities, the fossil fuel industry delayed action and protected profits at the expense of the planet." Join the Conversation: Follow and engage with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok. Share your thoughts and join the discussion using #CitizensClimateRadio. Call or text our listener voicemail line: (619) 512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA). Email us at radio @ citizensclimate.org.

With the election behind us, we’ll have a clearer picture of the opportunities and constraints the new Congress may present for implementing a carbon price. Join Dr. Danny Richter, CCL’s Policy Fellow as he walks us through the lay of the land and how carbon pricing policy could evolve and tie in with tax policy reform.

The urgency of the climate crisis demands bold action to cut net emissions as swiftly as possible. Clean Energy Permitting Reform offers a critical opportunity to make substantial progress with the U.S. currently off-track to meet Paris Agreement commitments. Rob Gramlich President, Grid Strategies LLC and Shane Londagin Senior Policy Advisor for Innovation, Third Way join CCL's Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli to discuss the need for more permitting reform and why CCL believes the Energy Permitting Reform Act can lead to meaningful emissions reductions.

An inside look at the upcoming legislative landscape and what we can expect moving forward. Our legislative team — Ben Pendergrass and Mindy Ahler — reviews our goals for the remainder of this Congressional session and what’s on the horizon as a new Congress moves into focus. Learn why Permitting Reform will continue to be a policy priority and what work we can do before this Congress ends in a few weeks. We’ll also review our upcoming Lobbying Asks.

CCL's Executive Director looks ahead to our work in the 119th Congress.

Throughout the year, CCL’s policy roadmap has steered us on our journey to influence America’s climate policy. CCL’s Vice President of Communications, Flannery Winchester, reviews our advancements this year and what’s on the road ahead as we travel into 2025.

Senator-elect John Curtis (R-UT) shares his story to becoming a climate champion and his appreciation for the work and methods of Citizens' Climate Lobby.

CCL's Executive Director Rachel Kerestes sets the tone for a weekend of inspiration and transformational advocacy. Rachel reflects on our progress this year, outlines our path forward as a new Congress commences, and lays out our priorities and focus heading into 2025. Be sure to join us as Rachel reinforces CCL’s commitment to bipartisanship during polarized times and why this approach not only makes us uniquely effective but remains crucial to the incredible work our volunteers do.

Join CCL Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli to learn about the scientific evidence for climate change and answers common questions. Citizens’ Climate’s mission is to create the political will for a livable world, and we won’t stop working until we have a healthy and stable climate. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (2:04) The Carbon Cycle (5:51) How Do We Know Humans Are Responsible? (14:56) How We Know CO2 Is The Cause (20:48) Climate-Weather Connections (26:32) Ocean Impacts & Tipping Points (33:40) What Can We Do About It? Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/cvtclimatescience Training Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/topics/climate-change-science/basics

By the 1990s, momentum for climate action was growing, but so was opposition. In Episode 4 of Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos, host Peterson Toscano examines how fossil fuel interests, economic priorities, and cultural shifts began to unravel bipartisan efforts. Featuring insights from Chelsea Henderson and Katie Zakrzewski, this episode dives into the psychological and cultural barriers that fueled climate skepticism, the emergence of echo chambers, and the rise of polarization. Despite these challenges, the episode highlights leaders like Senator John McCain, whose bipartisan efforts provided hope for climate solutions. Key Topics: The cultural and psychological roots of climate skepticism in the 1990s. How values of individualism and economic freedom clashed with environmental regulation. The role of cognitive dissonance and echo chambers in shaping public opinion. The rise of Senator John McCain as a climate advocate. Insights into the McCain-Lieberman Climate Change Bill of 2003. Featured Guests: Chelsea Henderson: Host of Eco Right Speaks and author of Glacial: The Inside Story of Climate Politics. Katie Zakrzewski: Co-host of Green Tea Party Radio and climate advocate. Standout Quotes: Katie Zakrzewski: "This is where the polarization really begins...economic priorities took precedence, creating a divide between regulation and free-market values." Chelsea Henderson: "John McCain made a promise to New Hampshire voters: I will learn about climate change, and he kept his word." Episode Highlights: [00:02:15] How cultural values in the 1990s paved the way for climate skepticism. [00:06:30] The role of cognitive dissonance and confirmation bias in resisting climate science. [00:15:40] The bipartisan McCain-Lieberman Climate Change Bill and its challenges. [00:20:50] Katie Zakrzewski’s perspective on the importance of engaging conservatives in climate action. Call to Action Want to learn how you can get involved in bipartisan climate solutions? Visit cclusa.org/action. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with friends or on social media. Every share helps inspire more people to take meaningful action on climate change. Join the Conversation Engage with other listeners and share your thoughts on our social media channels. Follow and connect with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok. Tune in next month for more inspiring stories, expert insights, and actionable climate solutions. Together, we can make a difference, one story at a time. We Want to Hear from You Email: radio @ citizensclimate.org Text/Voicemail: 619-512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA.) Credits Research: Horace Mo Mo, Lily Rushen, Peterson Toscano Editorial Assistance: Flannery Winchester, Elise Silvestri, Brett Cease Production: Peterson Toscano, Elise Silvestri Music: Our theme music is Chasing Stories by Elise Silvestri. Other music byEpidemic Sound.

Join CCL's Vice President for Government Affairs Ben Pendergrass and CCL Policy Fellow Danny Richter for a training that will review more details and the context for CCL's Fall 2024 Primary and Supporting Asks, as well as guidance for lobby teams as they plan their online meetings. Attendees will have the chance to start strategizing for the upcoming fall lobby meetings, get more information on the meeting asks, and have time to get questions answered by CCL's government affairs team. This is the recommended training for any CCL volunteer planning on being a part of their group's Fall 2024 Lobby Meeting. Skip ahead to the following time(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (1:07) Review Of Congress Currently (3:34) Primary Ask: The Energy Permitting Reform Act (15:31 ) Secondary Ask (18:32) Why IRA Repeal Attempt is Likely (19:24) How The Repeal Could Happen (24:27) The Co-Primary Ask for Republicans (28:11) Why This Ask Now and Conclusion Q&A Discussion is a separate video here: https://vimeo.com/1032393965 Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/lobby-slides CCL Community Training Event: https://community.citizensclimate.org/events/item/24/16942

Are you curious about what to expect about CCL's Conference and Lobby Days or have a question about any final details? Join Alison Kubicsko, National Events Director and Mindy Ahler CCL Liaison Coordinator Team and North Wind Regional Director for a final walk-through of the who, what, and where for the Summer 2024 Conference and Lobby Day to help you prepare for what to expect with the schedule, logistics, and details. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (3:08) CCL Lobby Days (13:57) CCL Conference Overview Presentation slides: http://cclusa.org/lobby-conference-qa Training Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/272

Show Notes for Hot Mess: The Great Climate Divide - How Consensus Became Chaos Episode Summary: In this third episode of Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos, host Peterson Toscano unravels the pivotal shifts that transformed bipartisan climate cooperation into a landscape rife with skepticism and polarization. Joined by guests Chelsea Henderson and Katie Zarkreski, the conversation delves into the rise of disinformation campaigns, strategic political alliances, and economic anxieties that redefined the public perception of climate change. Key Topics: Early Momentum and Opposition: The episode begins by revisiting the climate action momentum of the early 1990s and how fossil fuel interests orchestrated disinformation campaigns to cast doubt on climate science. Industry Playbooks and Political Strategy: Chelsea Henderson, director at republicEn, explains the fossil fuel industry’s approach: sowing fear about economic impacts and casting scientific doubt. She reveals how well-funded ad campaigns promoted skepticism and stalled meaningful climate policy. From Climate Skepticism to Political Gridlock: Katie Zarkreski, co-host of Green Tea Party Radio, discusses the fossil fuel industry’s long history of suppressing climate science findings. Katie examines how both major political parties, under pressure from industry donors, began shifting away from environmental priorities. The Role of Key Players: The episode spotlights influential groups like Koch Industries and the Global Climate Coalition, revealing how they fueled a culture of denial and gridlock, reinforcing economic fears and blocking policies, from carbon taxes to international treaties. A Bipartisan Complication: Despite traditionally pro-environment platforms, Democrats also contributed to climate inaction. Katie discusses the nuanced role both parties played in the evolving skepticism and economic focus of the era, setting the stage for today’s divided climate politics. Featured Guests: Chelsea Henderson - Host of Eco Right Speaks and director of Editorial Content at republicEn. Chelsea brings over 25 years of climate policy expertise, offering insights into the mechanics of climate politics in Washington, D.C. Katie Zarkreski - Co-host of Green Tea Party Radio and climate advocate with a background in faith-based environmental stewardship, Katie shares her journey from skepticism to activism, highlighting how conservative values align with climate action. Call to Action Want to learn how you can get involved in bipartisan climate solutions? Visit cclusa.org/action. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with friends or on social media. Every share helps inspire more people to take meaningful action on climate change. Join the Conversation Engage with other listeners and share your thoughts on our social media channels. Follow and connect with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok. Tune in next month for more inspiring stories, expert insights, and actionable climate solutions. Together, we can make a difference, one story at a time. We Want to Hear from You Email: radio @ citizensclimate.org Text/Voicemail: 619-512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA.) Credits Research: Horace Mo Mo, Lily Rushen, Peterson Toscano Editorial Assistance: Flannery Winchester, Elise Silvestri, Brett Cease Production: Peterson Toscano, Elise Silvestri Music: Our theme music is Chasing Stories by Elise Silvestri. Other music byEpidemic Sound.

Led by different CCL staffers, this hour of action will provide real-time opportunities to make a collective difference. Whether we're writing to Congress, spreading the word online, or using a number of other vehicles to make our voice heard, we'll come together and continue to make climate action a priority no matter the election outcome.

Introduction In this episode of Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos, Peterson Toscano introduces us to Marshall Saunders, a man whose unexpected journey from a Texas businessman to a climate advocate sparked a powerful movement. Saunders, the founder of Citizens Climate Lobby, channeled his skills and personal growth into creating a grassroots organization that has inspired climate action across the political spectrum. Hot Mess is a six-part series hosted by Peterson Toscano that uncovers the untold stories behind the rise and fall of bipartisan efforts to address climate change in the United States. Key Themes The personal transformation of Marshall Saunders. The founding of Citizens Climate Lobby (CCL). Citizen-driven advocacy and bipartisan climate solutions. Using market-based approaches to address climate change. Featured Guests Marshall Saunders Marshall was born in Waco, Texas and was the founder of Citizens’ Climate Lobby. He began his career as a businessman, and then became active in the microfinancing movement. His personal story of transformation from a business man to his focus on climate solutions has inspired hundreds of thousands of CCL volunteers. Chelsea Henderson Chelsea, host of RepublicEn’s Eco Right Speaks podcast, returns to provide context on the importance of conservative involvement in climate action. She shares what she sees Conservatives bring to the table when it comes to climate change solutions. Chelsea wrote the book, Glacial: he Untold Story of Climate Politics. Standout Quotes “Yes, he literally paved paradise and put in a parking lot. He was that guy.” – Peterson Toscano “We trust that ordinary people can get the job done… It’s a trusting in ordinary people, not people who are powerful, but ordinary people.” – Marshall Saunders Episode Highlights 00:03:45 – Marshall Saunders' early life as a businessman, paving parking lots and living a life of separateness. 00:10:15 – A transformative personal growth workshop that led Saunders to care deeply about the world around him. 00:18:30 – Founding Citizens Climate Lobby and the innovative, citizen-driven advocacy model Saunders championed. 00:24:50 – The “carbon fee and dividend” plan: a market-based approach to climate action with bipartisan appeal. 00:30:40 – The growth of CCL and its influence on climate policy, thanks to thousands of dedicated volunteers. Call to Action Want to learn how you can get involved in bipartisan climate solutions? Visit cclusa.org/action. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with friends or on social media. Every share helps inspire more people to take meaningful action on climate change. Join the Conversation Engage with other listeners and share your thoughts on our social media channels. Follow and connect with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok. Tune in next month for more inspiring stories, expert insights, and actionable climate solutions. Together, we can make a difference, one story at a time. We Want to Hear from You Email: radio @ citizensclimate.org Text/Voicemail: 619-512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA.) Credits Research: Horace Mo Mo, Lily Rushen, Peterson Toscano Editorial Assistance: Flannery Winchester, Elise Silvestri, Brett Cease Production: Peterson Toscano, Elise Silvestri Music: Our theme music is Chasing Stories by Elise Silvestri. Other music byEpidemic Sound.

Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos is a six-part series hosted by Peterson Toscano that uncovers the untold stories behind the rise and fall of bipartisan efforts to address climate change in the United States. In this first episode, Peterson Toscano takes listeners back to a time when political cooperation on climate issues was possible. The episode explores the beginnings of climate politics in the 1960s, including early warnings about carbon emissions and surprising cross-party collaborations that are difficult to imagine today. For full show notes and transcript visit www.cclusa.org/radio Key Themes The origins of climate politics in the 1960s. Bipartisan collaboration on environmental legislation. Early climate activism from figures across the political spectrum.. Featured Guest Chelsea Henderson Chelsea hosts RepublicEn’s Eco Right Speaks podcast and has long advocated for conservative-led climate solutions. In this episode, she shares her insights into the early days of bipartisan cooperation and the conservative movement's role in addressing climate change. Standout Quotes “We must prevent the overheating of our planet, and that will take decisive action from everyone.” – Audio clip from Margaret Thatcher. “Nancy Pelosi and Newt Gingrich sitting on the same couch, talking about the climate, alongside Al Sharpton and Pat Robertson—truly, a coalition that seems unimaginable today.” – Peterson Toscano. Episode Highlights 00:05:15 – Lyndon B. Johnson's 1965 climate briefing: The earliest official recognition of climate threats. 00:12:45 – Richard Nixon established key environmental protections, marking bipartisan action. 00:18:30 – Margaret Thatcher addresses the United Nations about the risks of climate change internationally. 00:22:15 – 2008 We Can Solve It bipartisan climate campaign featuring Nancy Pelosi, Newt Gingrich, Rev. All Sharpton, and Rev. Pat Robertson brought together unlikely allies to tackle climate change. Call to Action Want to learn how you can get involved in bipartisan climate solutions? Visit cclusa.org/action. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with friends or on social media. Every share helps inspire more people to take meaningful action on climate change. Join the Conversation Engage with other listeners and share your thoughts on our social media channels. Follow and connect with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok. Tune in next month for more inspiring stories, expert insights, and actionable climate solutions. Together, we can make a difference, one story at a time. We Want to Hear from You Email: radio @ citizensclimate.org Text/Voicemail: 619-512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA.) Credits Research: Horace Mo Mo, Lily Rushen, Peterson Toscano Editorial Assistance: Flannery Winchester, Elise Silvestri, Brett Cease Production: Peterson Toscano, Elise Silvestri Music: Our theme music is Chasing Stories by Elise Silvestri. Other music byEpidemic Sound.

Join CCL's Research Team for a training that outlines the background behind attribution science -- the process of quantifying the contribution of global warming to extreme weather and other events --and a discussion around how we can employ attribution science to Hurricane Helene, the process for how connecting climate change with extreme weather events is done, what it has found, as well as how we as CCL volunteers can employ effective communication in using its research and findings. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (3:37) What is Attribution Science and How Is It Done? (10:59) How Can CCLers Use This Knowledge? (15:43) More On Hurricane Helene and other 2024 Extreme Weather Events (35:55) What Can We Do About It? Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/weather-attribution-slides CCL Training Event Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/events/item/24/17109

The confluence of three external forces may present an opportunity in the next Congress for a carbon price. However, those external forces also constrain the opportunity such that if something passes, it will look different from the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act. This webinar will explore how those three forces constrain the debate, what that means for CCL’s priorities, and most importantly, for the climate. To further enhance our discussion, we'll also be hearing from one of the Hamilton Project's authors of the Climate tax policy reform options in 2025. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (3:59) The Opportunity (9:00) The World Has Shifted (23:56) The Constraints to Policy Design (28:28) Closing the Emissions Gap (1:01:26) Conclusions (1:02:52) Q&A Discussion Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/carbon-pricing-opportunities CCL Training Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/events/item/24/17016 Climate tax policy reform options in 2025: www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/20240227_THP_ClimateTaxPaper.pdf

Our 100th episode of Citizens Climate Radio focuses on climate adaptation and how it’s shaping new career paths. Doug Parsons, host of the America Adapts podcast, joins us and shares his insights on the urgent need for adaptation and the exciting opportunities in this evolving field. We also hear from an engineering student who reveals how he discovered a new climate-related career path. Plus, we share a special report from the future about unexpected climate solution celebrities. Doug Parsons on Climate Adaptation Doug Parsons explains that while mitigating climate change by reducing emissions is critical, adaptation—preparing for its impacts—is equally important. From wildfires to sea-level rise, communities must adapt to the changes already happening. Doug discusses “managed retreat” and the hard choices ahead for places like Miami, but he also highlights how climate adaptation offers a fast-growing sector full of opportunities for new careers. "Adaptation is such an evolving field. If anyone says they know exactly what they're doing, they're lying to you. But that’s what makes it so exciting—you can influence it." —Doug Parsons. Listen to more episodes of America Adapts Why Climate? Featuring Justin Baumann We feature Justin Baumann, an engineering management student at Stevens Institute of Technology. Justin shares his journey into climate work, combining his passion for technology and community care. He discusses how climate change initially seemed distant but soon became a central focus in his studies and career aspirations. Attending the Waterfront Alliance’s annual conference opened doors and gave Justin a new understanding of his role in our rapidly changing world. What about you? Why are you passionate about climate change work? Let us know by email radio @ clitizensclimate.org Jobs of the Future In this episode, we leap into the future. What will the job market look like in a world profoundly shaped by climate change? This radio play originally aired on the Climate Stew podcast and offers a humorous yet thought-provoking look at how engineers may be future celebrities. Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos Mark your calendars! We are excited to announce our upcoming six-part series, Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned Into Political Chaos. Premiering on Friday, November 1, 2024, this series explores how the united global concern over climate change unraveled, stalling progress. We’ll take you behind the scenes, revealing overlooked moments and heroes of the climate movement and the forces that drove political chaos. Production Team: Written and produced by Peterson Toscano, Tamara Staton, Dana Nuccitelli, and Elise Silvestri. Technical support by Ricky Bradley and Brett Cease. Social media assistance by Flannery Winchester. Music by Epidemic Sound. Join the Conversation: Follow and engage with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok. Share your thoughts and join the discussion using #CitizensClimateRadio. Call or text our listener voicemail line: (619) 512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA). Email us at radio @ citizensclimate.org.

Akshat Rathi is a London-based senior reporter for Bloomberg News and author of the new book Climate Capitalism, which is the subject of his 2024 TED Talk. He also hosts Bloomberg Green's weekly Zero podcast and writes a weekly Zero newsletter, focused on climate change. Previously, Akshat was a senior reporter at Quartz and a science editor at The Conversation. His work has been cited widely, including in New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Financial Times and The Guardian. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Introduction & National Updates (10:40) Interview w/ Akshat Rathi (24:16) Q&A Discussion (40:05) October Actions October Action Sheet: https://cclusa.org/action-sheet Take Action Make A Voting Plan: https://cclusa.org/vote Pre-Call Video: https://vimeo.com/1018718136 More About Akshat: https://akshatrathi.com/

Join CCL's Sr. Director of Programs Elli Sparks for a training that offers tips and suggested strategies for onboarding new people into your chapter so that they acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and behaviors to become empowered volunteers. Evaluate and then advance your chapter’s capacity and process for quickly welcoming and engaging new recruits so that people you've recently met to help them become engaged in chapter activities and CCL actions. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (5:34) Basic Welcome Process (18:31) Building Teams and Getting Help (20:29) Boost Engagement via CCL Community (22:19) Ongoing Engagement Ideas Presentation Slides: http://cclusa.org/new-volunteers-engaged Training Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/298

In this episode, learn about the U.S. Energy Permitting Reform Act and how a music class inspired a student to gain new insights on climate change. We also explore how listening enhances climate communication skills. For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit www.cclusa.org/radio Barbara Wankollie’s Soundscape: Climate and Colonization Through Sound We highlight Barbara Wankollie, a Liberian political science student at Bucknell University. She created a soundscape reflecting on colonization and Africa’s role in the Anthropocene, inspired by Gabrielle Hecht’s essay The African Anthropocene. Barbara’s piece blends original music with field recordings, starting with rain and drums to symbolize harmony with nature, then shifting to industrial sounds representing colonization’s disruption. A powerful moment in her work came from an accidental recording during a trip to Baltimore, where she and her international friends reflected on Black community and identity. This soundscape offers a unique lens on the intersection of climate and colonization. The Nerd Corner: The Energy Permitting Reform Act Dana Nuccitelli unpacks the bipartisan Energy Permitting Reform Act, which aims to streamline clean energy projects while boosting fossil fuel extraction. A "super team" of experts modeled the bill’s impact, estimating it could reduce U.S. climate pollution by up to 25% by 2050, with fossil fuel provisions having minimal effect on increasing emissions. This act could play a key role in a cleaner energy future. Resilience Corner: The Power of Listening Tamara Staton explores how deep listening enhances collaboration, reduces stress, and builds emotional resilience, which is crucial for long-term climate action. She connects listening to improved trust, creativity, and support within the climate movement, highlighting its value in both personal and professional resilience.

Join CCL's Communications Team Flannery Winchester and Charlotte Ward for a training that will provide a broad overview of the opportunities chapters have as we enter into the fall of 2024 to engage with their local news media on climate solutions. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (2:42) Fall Media Opportunities through Fall (12:23) CCL's Latest Opportunities + Resources (27:14) Volunteer Media Round-up Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/2024-media-opportunities Writers Circle Action Team: https://community.citizensclimate.org/groups/home/992 Media Resources: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/431

Given the wide array of responses the climate advocacy community has had to the introduction of the Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024, this training will provide volunteers with the supportive mindset and resources to respond to questions earnestly and openly. We'll review an updated resource to help with some general guidance and perspective on how to respectfully engage with others who have critiques regarding one of CCL’s policy agenda areas in permitting reform. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (2:26) Background & Where To Find (11:04) Framework In Action (20:06) Community Engagement Background & Example Tonight’s slides: https://cclusa.org/challenging-conversations-permitting Resource: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/564 Training: https://community.citizensclimate.org/topics/clean-energy-permitting-reform/intro-to-permitting-reform

Join CCL's Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli for a training that will provide updates to what the emission reductions potential is for the Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024 based on modeling by Resources For the Future, RMI, Jesse Jenkins, and Third Way. Senators Manchin (I-WV) and Barrasso (R-WY) introduced a bipartisan permitting reform bill called the Energy Permitting Reform Act. This bill is a significant advancement in CCL’s clean energy permitting reform policy agenda, that we have been advocating for over the past two years. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (1:51) What's In The Bill? (5:18) Transmission Provisions (17:06) Fossil Fuel Provisions (29:37) The Bill's Climate Pollution Cuts & Other Concerns Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/energy-permitting-slides Research Summary: https://www.thirdway.org/memo/quantifying-the-emissions-impacts-of-the-energy-permitting-reform-act-of-2024 Training Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/events/item/24/16643 Log Your Training: https://community.citizensclimate.org/log_training?sf_id=a5y8X000000lMgFQAU

In 2024, CCL wants more climate voters to vote, and we want climate to be a key issue for every candidate in every election. We'll discuss options for CCLers to engage during the 2024 elections locally and nationally including the many events and outreach opportunities with CCL's Election Engagement Action Team: https://community.citizensclimate.org/groups/home/2977 Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/election-engagement-slides Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (2:42) Why is CCL Engaging? (7:15) Public Voter Outreach (16:55) Climate GOAT Campaign (27:03) Getting CCLers to Vote (32:45) Candidate Engagement

Climate change stands as the defining challenge of our era, a topic that can feel overwhelming in its scope and implications. As we grapple with this global crisis, many of us also face mounting anxiety about upcoming elections, whose outcomes could profoundly shape our response to climate change and impact the world we cherish. In this workshop, we'll explore the intersection of climate and election anxiety. We'll begin by defining these phenomena and examining their root causes and common manifestations. Most importantly, we'll introduce a practical five-step framework designed to help you navigate these complex emotions and concerns skillfully. By the end of our session, you'll have a deeper understanding of climate and election anxiety, as well as concrete tools to manage these feelings effectively. Our goal is to empower you to engage with these critical issues while maintaining your well-being and sense of agency. Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/election-climate-anxiety Resilience Hub: https://cclusa.org/resilience Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (2:51) Exploring Anxiety (13:10) Five Steps to Resilience (31:34) Practice Ideas

Join CCL Youth Action Team Coordinator Sharon Bagatell and CCL youth leaders for a training all about the School Electrification Challenge! As student teams, CCL youth are advocating for passage of an “Electrify Everything” Resolution by their school district’s Board of Education and advocating for implementation of a resolution if their district already has one in place. Earn points by taking actions that support school electrification and lead to passage of the Resolution! To learn more and get all the details, including what you can do AFTER a resolution is passed, check out the Great School Electrification Challenge Guide. Find out more and get involved at: https://youth.citizensclimatelobby.org/school-electrification/ Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (3:08) Why Electrify Schools? (5:37) How The Challenge Works (14:25) Lots of Benefits! (18:44) Student Experiences (24:55) Prior Results

Join us for this training designed to introduce participants to a wide array of resources aimed at enhancing existing skills and exploring new opportunities in Energy Efficiency and Electrification. Discover career maps to help you access a variety of helpful and informative resources, including online courses, webinars, and certifications - even plan your future work options! Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (2:13) Part 1: Previewing the San Diego LEARN website (9:55) Part 2: Previewing Coursework Webpage: https://www.sandiegolearn.com/ https://electrifynow.net/electrify-coalition-webinars

Angry and Ready: Dana R. Fisher's Climate Call to Action In this month's Citizens’ Climate Radio, host Peterson Toscano introduces listeners to the fiery and determined voice of Dana R. Fisher, a veteran in the climate change movement with nearly three decades of experience. Fisher, the author of “Saving Ourselves: From Climate Shocks to Climate Action,” delivers a searing critique of the fossil fuel industry and the ineffectiveness of incremental policy changes. This episode challenges listeners to consider the strategies needed to combat climate change and our roles in this fight. Dana R. Fisher: The Voice of Urgency Fisher doesn’t hold back as she reads from her latest book, calling out the covert interference of fossil fuel industries in IPCC reports and the lack of robust action from elected officials. Fisher argues that while volunteer advocacy is valuable, it’s not enough. She calls for a shift from incremental change to systemic overhauls, pushing citizens to become "troublemaking rebels" to force the hand of those in power. "Incremental policymaking is going to be the death of us all," Fisher warns, urging the need for more aggressive and organized activism. She emphasizes that the timeline of the climate crisis is not dictated by political cycles but by the rapidly accumulating greenhouse gases in our atmosphere. Rebels, Advocates, Helpers, and Organizers: We Need Them All Drawing from discussions from Episode 93, Peterson revisits the four roles change-makers play: advocates, rebels, helpers, and organizers. While most Citizens’ Climate Lobby volunteers fit the advocate role, Fisher stresses the need for more rebels and organizers to amplify the pressure on decision-makers. Fisher’s call to action is clear: systemic change requires bold, sometimes uncomfortable actions. Peterson admits to his own discomfort with disruptive demonstrations but acknowledges their necessity in the broader strategy for climate action. "While I deeply respect the work of groups like Citizens’ Climate Lobby, it's clear that advocacy alone isn't enough. We need more rebels, more organizers, and more systemic change to truly address the climate crisis." –Dana R. Fisher. About Dana R. Fisher Dana R. Fisher is the Director of the Center for Environment, Community, & Equity (CECE) and a Professor in the School of International Service at American University. Her current projects include evaluating how federal service corps programs expand their climate-related work. Fisher is a nonresident senior fellow in the governance studies program at The Brookings Institution and the chair of the political sociology section of the American Sociological Association. She was a Contributing Author for Working Group 3 of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Sixth Assessment Review (IPCC AR6), writing about citizen engagement and civic activism. Her media appearances include ABC, CBS, CNN, MSNBC, PBS Newshour, and various programs on NPR, BBC, and CBC. Her words have appeared in the popular media, including the Washington Post, Slate, TIME Magazine, Politico, the Nation, and the American Prospect. Dana earned her undergraduate degree from Princeton University and a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She has authored over eighty research papers and book chapters and has written seven books. For more details, see www.danarfisher.com. Follow Dana R. Fisher on TikTok, X, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, and LinkedIn. Good News: Bipartisan Success on Energy Permitting Reform "The Energy Permitting Reform Act stands out as a beacon of cooperation in a divided political climate, offering real hope that we can accelerate the transition to a cleaner energy future." –Peterson Toscano Peterson shares a rare piece of bipartisan good news. The U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources has advanced the Energy Permitting Reform Act with overwhelming support. This bill, which aims to streamline the permitting process for green energy projects, marks a significant step forward in building a sustainable energy infrastructure in the United States. The bipartisan nature of this success serves as a hopeful reminder that cooperation is still possible in the fight against climate change. Learn more about Permitting Reform. Why Climate? Featuring Dalton Jackson In this episode’s Why Climate? segment, Dalton Jackson, a college senior from rural Indiana who is working on conservative outreach with Citizens’ Climate Lobby, shares how growing up on a farm and learning about engines sparked his interest in climate change, particularly the importance of transitioning to sustainable energy sources. "Just because someone is conservative doesn’t mean they don’t care about climate change. It’s about showing them the benefits—economic and beyond." –Dalton Jackson. Dalton emphasizes that convincing conservatives to engage in climate action often requires focusing on the economic benefits rather than solely the environmental im

Have you wanted to install a heat pump or other clean energy appliances utilizing the Inflation Reduction Act and just didn't know where to get started? Join this Electrifying Your Home - Ask Me Anything to find out from homeowners from throughout the United States in a variety of climate zones and variety of backgrounds that have already done the work and want to answer your questions! CCL's Sr. Director of Communications Flannery Winchester will moderate a panel of CCL electrified homeowners who start by sharing their own experiences with each project they've installed and then open it up to the audience for a great discussion. CCL’s Electrification Campaign: https://cclusa.org/its-electric Electrification Action Team: https://community.citizensclimate.org/groups/home/974 Home Electrification and Efficiency Opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/528 Rewiring America Calculator: https://cclusa.org/ira-calc Log Your Training: https://community.citizensclimate.org/log_training?sf_id=a5yUP00000034K1YAI

August's Speaker was Aimee Witteman, Rewiring America VP of Investment. Witteman is the former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of Energy, former Energy Foundation Vice President for States & Regions, former Director of U.S. States Policy at the Climate Imperative Foundation, and spent a decade at the McKnight Foundation designing and leading their climate grantmaking program aimed at decarbonizing the Midwest economy and embedding democratic participation and racial equity into the Foundation’s climate portfolio. Earlier this year, Witteman led the launch of Invest in Our Future, with $180 million in philanthropic pledges over three years, to leverage the more than $1 trillion in recently-enacted federal funds to tackle the climate crisis and make the American economy stronger, cleaner, and more equitable. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Recent Highlights (17:08) Aimee Witteman w/ Rewiring America (38:30) Q&A Discussion (42:30) CCL's August Actions Review August Action Sheet: https://cclusa.org/actionsheet Pre-Call Video: https://vimeo.com/996798212 Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/august-monthly-call-slides Electrification Campaign: https://cclusa.org/its-electric Rewiring America Calculator https://cclusa.org/ira-calc Log Your Attendance: https://cclusa.org/log-meeting

In and around the second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) this month of August, Rewiring America and Citizens’ Climate Lobby are teaming up to organize Front Porch Ribbon Cuttings! What’s a Front Porch Ribbon Cutting? It's a fun event designed to showcase the impact of the IRA by treating homeowners who've installed clean electric machines with the same pomp and circumstance as a big, new manufacturing facility might get upon opening. We want to cut a ribbon in front of heat pumps, EVs, induction stoves, and heat pump water heaters that have been installed across the country thanks to the IRA. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (3:35) Welcome & Background (4:56) Sample Toolkit (16:48) Press Release Walkthrough (22:28) Summary Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/front-porch-ribbon-cutting Press Release Template: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/359 Front Porch Ribbon Cutting Planning Toolkit (copy): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bqBY74_gZAXr3YHcsruD7IdZ6pdBJ4FcTgoWBJAG1l0/copy Click to log your training: https://community.citizensclimate.org/log_training?sf_id=a5yUP00000030I1YAI

Join CCL's Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli for a training that reviews why building electrification is important, updates on the incentives available to homeowners through the Inflation Reduction Act, the benefits of each technology, and details regarding the applicable tax credits and rebates. Electrifying our homes and other buildings is a win-win-win. We can reduce our monthly energy bills by switching to more efficient electric technologies. We can improve our families’ health by reducing the amount of fossil fuels we’re burning in our homes and the associated air pollution they create. And of course doing so will also reduce climate pollution and thus slow global warming. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (3:53) Why Go Electric? (12:15) Diving Into Home Benefits (28:27) Electric Vehicles (34:45) Solar, Batteries and other updates Electrification Campaign Month: https://cclusa.org/its-electric Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/ira-homeowner-slides Training Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/528

Join CCL's VP of Programs Brett Cease for an overview of CCL's Electrification Campaign we're gearing up for the whole month of August. Brett will overview the campaign goals, support resources, and materials CCL has created to help facilitate thousands of conversations. Throughout August CCL is talking to people in communities across the country about electrifying their homes. Why? Because we want everyone to know there are cutting edge clean energy options available right now — and there are ways to save money on them, too. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (2:09) Background (5:46) Conversation Starters (13:33) What Resources Are There? (26:32) Additional Support Presentation Slides: https://clusa.org/electrification-campaign-slides Campaign Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/electrification-month

In this month’s Citizens’ Climate Radio episode, host Peterson Toscano and the CCR teams introduce a fresh approach to climate change storytelling by exploring personal stories as metaphors. While these stories are not explicitly about climate change, they reveal truths and perspectives that resonate with our climate work. Join us to discover how personal narratives can enhance and diversify our stories about climate change. You will also learn expert storytelling tips to apply when telling stories about climate change. For a full transcript and more, visit www.cclusa.org/radio Using Personal Stories as Metaphors Peterson challenges us to use personal stories, which hold significant meaning and energy for us, as metaphors for climate change. These stories, often about transitions, conflicts, or breakthroughs in our lives, can draw powerful parallels to our climate efforts. You'll hear two compelling stories from the Citizens' Climate Radio team members Erica Valdez and Horace Mo, each reflecting personal growth and resilience. Horace's Story: A Journey of Friendship and Belonging Horace Mo shares his experience of moving from China to the USA as a 16-year-old. Navigating a new culture and language, Horace found support and friendship in his roommate Kai, who helped him overcome language barriers and cultural differences. This story of adaptation and support mirrors the collective effort needed in climate work, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual aid. Horace reflects, "My English ability soared like a rocket with the help of Kai and other students at school. For the first time, I sensed a personal belonging to the school community." Erica's Story: Confronting Hidden Challenges Erica Valdez recounts her high school friend Sophia's (not her real name) struggles with college applications due to her parents' undocumented status. Erica's story highlights the hidden challenges marginalized communities face, drawing a parallel to the often-overlooked impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations. It emphasizes the need for empathy and support in both personal and climate-related contexts. Erica notes, "Witnessing her stress made me ask, how many people are going through something similar?" Making Climate Connections Peterson tells a story about a toxic, abusive relationship and reveals how this personal relationship mirrors society’s relationship with fossil fuels. He also encourages listeners to see the climate connections in Horace's and Erica's stories. Both narratives reflect themes of fear, support, and overcoming obstacles—common experiences in the climate movement. We can create more relatable and engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences by relating personal stories to climate issues. Peterson emphasizes, We need stories that reveal the power of climate change solutions. We need stories that unveil the driving force behind our efforts in addressing climate change. We need stories that unveil the driving force behind our efforts in addressing climate change. Stores that unearth how climate change affects some people differently than others. Stories that will inspire us to keep going. Nerd Corner: The Economic Impact of Climate Change In the Nerd Corner, Citizens’ Climate Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli discusses the economic impacts of climate change. Using lizards as an analogy, Dana explains how extreme weather events and shifting climates can stunt economic growth, emphasizing the urgent need for swift climate action to mitigate these effects. Dana states, "Most economists agree the faster we act on climate change, the better it will be for the economy. That's especially true if we use a market-based solution like putting a price on carbon pollution. That way, we can see the true price of products, including their climate costs, like a chameleon turning off its camouflage." Why Climate? Featuring James Earl Hollywood III In the new segment, Why Climate?, volunteer James Earl Hollywood III shares his motivation for climate action. A father of nine from Maryland, James highlights how environmental degradation disproportionately affects marginalized communities and underscores the importance of inclusive and collaborative climate solutions. James shares, "Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it's a human rights issue that affects every aspect of my life." About James James Earl Hollywood III is a dedicated husband, father of nine, minister, and author with a profound commitment to social change and community empowerment. Currently pursuing a doctorate in Social Leadership. James combines his extensive academic background—including degrees in Criminology, Public Administration, Communications, and Implementation Science—with his passion for advocacy and leadership. He has been actively involved with organizations such as the Citizens' Climate Lobby, Americans for Prosperity, and various advisory groups, leveraging his expertise to drive meaningful change.

In CCL, we transform what people think possible for Congress to do on climate, and in the process transform what people think possible for themselves to accomplish. Regardless of the motivation or skills a person brings when they join CCL, we succeed when we help them take the next step as part of our movement: Because empowered volunteers help us reach our big organizational goals. CCL's VP of Programs Brett Cease and Alabama group leader Debbie Chang will host a training that walks volunteers through the Transformational Organizing guide and describe its five pillars to help us strengthen our leadership development and capacity throughout the organization. Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/transformational-organizing-slides CCL Resource Page & Guide: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/222 Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (6:18) 1st Pillar: The Pyramid of Engagement (11:19) 2nd Pillar: The CCL Way (21:13) 3rd Pillar: The Conditions that Motivate (30:39) 4th Pillar: The Elimination of Blame (37:51) 5th Pillar: The Empowerment of Volunteers

Ben Pendergrass, CCL's Vice President of Government Affairs, celebrates our national summer conference and our 442 June 11th lobby meetings, gives us a legislative update, and reviews the impact of your June phone calls about the PROVE IT Act. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Highlights (6:32) Conversation with CCL Alum Hill Staffers Morgan and Kesten (18:53) Q&A Discussion (36:10) CCL's July Actions Review July Action Sheet: https://cclusa.org/actionsheet Pre-Call Video: https://vimeo.com/983273670?share=copy

CCL wants all candidates to move climate to the top of their policy agenda so (1) plan for lots of folks to attend campaign events this summer, (2) prepare for the events by crafting effective questions to ask, and (3) get to know and educate candidates on CCL, whether they are doing campaign events or not. Join this training to walk through CCL's main goals heading into the election season picking up steam and how we can engage with candidates and members of Congress ahead of the election. Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/candidate-event-slides Training Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/264 Sample Town Hall Questions: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/350 Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Agenda (2:53) Types of candidate events (5:56) Learning about all candidates (9:02) Developing strategic questions (12:45) Sample Questions (18:36) Working with incumbents (21:20) Staying nonpartisan and bipartisan

Get to know Rachel Kerestes, CCL's incoming Executive Director! More information about Rachel here: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/blog/news/ccl-new-executive-director/

In this episode of Citizens Climate Radio, hosts Horace Mo and Erica Valdez bring together diverse voices to discuss current efforts to address climate change. Horace Mo speaks with Ann E Burg, a celebrated author known for compelling historical novels for young readers, about her newly published novel “Force of Nature–A Novel of Rachel Carson” which opens a new door for readers to experience the life of Carson, a well-known environmental pioneer in the US, by reading her field notes and Ann’s innovative writing. Erica Valdez discusses the American fossil fuel divestment movement, highlighting the work of younger generations. She has a conversation with Aly Horton, another student taking the initiative to promote the fossil fuel divestment movement on their campus at Northern Arizona University. In the Resilience Corner, Tamara Staton speaks on mastering the banjo and how this uniquely relates to addressing climate change. Finally, we have a Good News story from Peterson Toscano regarding South Africa's energy supply. Ann E Burg Explores Rachel Carson’s Life In this episode, author Ann E Burg dives into her latest work, “Force of Nature.” This novel is inspired by Rachel Carson’s groundbreaking environmental book Silent Spring. It is beautifully illustrated by Sophie Blackall. After World War II, DDT became a common pesticide in neighborhoods and farms; however, it had dire consequences for ecosystems, entering the food chain and harming various species. This alarming situation inspired Rachel Carson to write and publish her now-famous book, “Silent Spring”, in 1962. Ann E Burg tells us how Carson’s book "explored DDT but also started with a fable for tomorrow. It suggested what life would be like if spring came and no birds were there to sing." Ann E. Burg considers Rachel Carson a role model for her scientific rigor and environmental advocacy. Carson’s ability to illuminate the beauty and complexity of nature-inspired Burg to see the world differently. This novel, “Force of Nature,” is not merely a recounting of Carson’s life but an immersive experience of her world. Burg hopes readers will see the world through Carson's eyes and appreciate the interconnectedness of all life. About Ann E Burg Ann E Burg’s debut novel, “All the Broken Pieces,” was named an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, a Jefferson Cup award winner, and an IRA Notable Book for a Global Society, among its many honors. Her subsequent novels in verse have garnered multiple awards and starred reviews. “Serafina's Promise” was named an ALA Notable, a Parents' Choice Gold Award Winner, and an NAACP Image Award finalist. “Unbound” won the New York Historical Society Children's History Book Prize, the Christopher Award, and an Arnold Adoff Poetry Honor. “Flooded–A Requiem for Johnstown” was a Bank Street College Claudia Lewis Award winner, a Bank Street College Best Children's Book (with outstanding merit), and a Junior Library Guild selection. Before becoming a full-time writer, Burg worked as an English teacher for ten years. She lives in Rhinebeck, New York, with her family. To learn more about Ann E Burg, visit her online at anneburg.com The Student-Led Drive for Fossil Fuel Divestment Erica Valdez discusses the fossil fuel divestment movement, highlighting the efforts on her campus, Northern Arizona University (NAU). Climate change is a human-caused phenomenon in which the fossil fuel industry plays a significant role. Erica dives into what divestment is and how it may be one of the most effective steps that institutions can take to slow climate change. Erica invites Aly Horton, president of Fossil Free NAU, a student-led group demanding complete divestment. Aly explains the club's efforts and goals to hold the university accountable to its environmental commitments. Aly and Erica also discuss recent pushback from the university administration. Nevertheless, Fossil Free NAU remains determined to continue its mission because it is just a small chapter of an international movement. Although it may be difficult, many institutions have already divested from fossil fuels. Aly shares inspiring advice to organizers worldwide who are working towards divestment. Resilience Corner For this month’s Resilience Corner, Tamara Staton draws parallels between her desire to master the banjo and the overwhelming task of addressing climate change. When practicing banjo, she faces common emotional barriers like fear, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and information overload. We also face these barriers when we talk about climate change. Tamara discusses why it is important to recognize these feelings, encouraging listeners to embrace imperfections and persistent efforts. To learn more about building resilience in the face of climate challenges, visit the Resilience Hub. You can also email Tamara at radio @ citizensclimate.org or text or leave a message at 619-512-9646. Good News! Peterson Toscano shares a good news story from Limpopo Province, South Africa, wh

Join us live from D.C. as over a thousand CCLers converge to work together on climate solutions and meet with Congress! Flannery Winchester, CCL’s Senior Director of Communications, will host this call and will be joined by former CCLers who now work in Congress. Our old friends will talk about what life is like on “the other side” and give invaluable perspectives on CCL and lobby meetings. We’ll also give you a fly-on-the-wall experience of conference life as we walk the halls of the Omni Shoreham chatting to CCL staff and interns along the way. Skip ahead to the following section(s): (0:00) Intro & Highlights (7:34) Conversation with CCL Alum Hill Staffers Morgan and Kesten (27:50) Q&A Discussion (30:58) CCL's April Actions (33:35) Rachel's Message to CCL! June Action Sheet: https://cclusa.org/actionsheet Summer Conference: https://cclusa.org/summer Pre-Call Video: https://vimeo.com/954652376