The Coolest Show

Over the past few weeks we’ve been exploring the many layers behind the Netflix documentary The Plastic Detox as part of our special series rollout — looking at how storytelling, science, and community come together to address the plastic pollution crisis. First, we explored the production side — how filmmakers bring these stories to life. Then we looked at the pollution itself — the chemicals and plastics making their way into our environment and even into our bodies. Today we focus on the people. Because behind every statistic, every study, and every headline about pollution, there are real families and real communities living with the consequences. Today we’re joined by Julie and Eric Isaac, whose story helps bring the human dimension of the plastic crisis into focus through their participation in The Plastic Detox, streaming on Netflix. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus – features conversations on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @HipHopCaucus and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook. The post The Personal Effect with Julie and Eric appeared first on The Coolest Show.

As we continue our focus on how film and production function as tools for justice, we’re leaning into the idea that storytelling doesn’t just inform—it transforms. Because culture shapes policy. And policy shapes lives. When we talk about the climate crisis, we often focus on policy debates and scientific reports. But film has the power to make those realities personal to help us see the human stakes behind the data. Host Rev Yearwood is joined by Josh “Bones” Murphy, an award-winning filmmaker, director, and lifelong environmentalist whose work brings complex environmental issues to the screen in ways that challenge systems and spark conversation. From overfishing to plastic pollution, his films push us to look deeper at how our choices and our structures impact communities and ecosystems. He is also the co-director and producer on the Netflix documentary The Plastic Detox. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus – features conversations on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @HipHipCaucus and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook. The post The Production Effect with Josh “Bones” Murphy appeared first on The Coolest Show.

When most people think about climate change, they picture melting glaciers or rising seas. But what if the climate crisis isn’t just happening around us? What if it’s happening inside us? What if the same pollution warming the planet is also disrupting our hormones, our fertility, and the future of our children? This episode features Dr. Shanna Swan and Professor Jasmine McDonald — two leading scientists whose research connects chemical exposure, plastics, reproductive health, cancer risk, and environmental justice. And through the Netflix documentary The Plastic Detox and ongoing public engagement, their work is reaching living rooms across the world. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus – features conversations on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @HipHipCaucus and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook. The post The Pollution Effect with Dr. Shanna Swan and Professor Jasmine McDonald appeared first on The Coolest Show.

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood is joined by author and essayist Mary Heglar, whose work ruminates on climate grief and justice. As a Black woman who grew up in the South, she speaks to the importance of telling stories that are explicit about the impacts of climate change and that honor the sacrifices of previous generations. Heglar also reads an excerpt from her new novel Troubled Waters, which explores the beauty and challenges of intergenerational healing on a burning planet. Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer Alley” highlights seven fearless, unapologetic Black women leading the fight for environmental justice in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. This 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is lined with chemical facilities, posing severe health risks to local communities. Each episode uplifts the stories and advocacy of these women, highlighting their resilience and commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, more equitable communities of color. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. The post Community Over Cancer Alley w/ Mary Heglar appeared first on The Coolest Show.

In this episode of the The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood sits down with Dr. Earthea Nance, the Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator for Region 6. The conversation highlights the importance of intersectionality between climate and other social issues. Dr. Nance discusses the work the EPA is doing to protect Cancer Alley in Louisiana and the need for strategy in sacrifice zones. Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer Alley” highlights seven fearless, unapologetic Black women leading the fight for environmental justice in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. This 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is lined with chemical facilities, posing severe health risks to local communities. Each episode uplifts the stories and advocacy of these women, highlighting their resilience and commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, more equitable communities of color. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The post Community Over Cancer Alley w/ Dr. Earthea Nance appeared first on The Coolest Show.

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood holds an intimate conversation with Time100 influential person Sharon Lavigne and her daughter, climate justice advocate Shamyra Lavigne Davey. The series aims to illuminate the environmental and social justice challenges facing Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. In her community of St. James Parish, Sharon Lavigne founded the grassroots organization Rise St. James to fight the expansion of petrochemical industries and mobilize her neighbors. The Lavignes discuss the heartbreaking impacts of pollution on frontline communities while reflecting on the change they hope to see in their lifetimes. Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer Alley” highlights seven fearless, unapologetic Black women leading the fight for environmental justice in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. This 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is lined with chemical facilities, posing severe health risks to local communities. Each episode uplifts the stories and advocacy of these women, highlighting their resilience and commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, more equitable communities of color. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The post Community Over Cancer Alley w/ Sharon and Shamyra Lavigne appeared first on The Coolest Show.

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood heads to New Orleans for a live, in-person conversation with activists and community organizers, Jo and Joy Banner. The Banner sisters are committed to turning plantations into green spaces. Through the Descendents Project, they challenge systems that try to exploit descendants of those enslaved to plantations while ensuring their future and happiness. The twins speak of the importance of land reclamation and how interconnected the environment is to the community. Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer Alley” highlights seven fearless, unapologetic Black women leading the fight for environmental justice in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. This 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is lined with chemical facilities, posing severe health risks to local communities. Each episode uplifts the stories and advocacy of these women, highlighting their resilience and commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, more equitable communities of color. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The post Community Over Cancer Alley w/ Jo and Joy Banner appeared first on The Coolest Show.

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood heads to New Orleans for a live, in-person conversation with renowned poet, activist, and cultural worker Sunni Patterson. The series aims to illuminate the environmental and social justice challenges facing Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. Patterson, celebrated for her evocative spoken word performances and steadfast community advocacy, brings a profound and passionate perspective to the discussion. Her deep ties to New Orleans and her commitment to social justice resonate throughout the conversation, as she shares her experiences and the role of art in social movements. Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer Alley” highlights seven fearless, unapologetic Black women leading the fight for environmental justice in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. This 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is lined with chemical facilities, posing severe health risks to local communities. Each episode uplifts the stories and advocacy of these women, highlighting their resilience and commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, more equitable communities of color. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The post Community Over Cancer Alley w/ Sunni Patterson appeared first on The Coolest Show.

This episode serves as the introduction to a special series titled “Community Over Cancer Alley,” presented by Think 100% and the Hip Hop Caucus. The series aims to shine a light on the environmental and social justice challenges faced by the communities in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. Rev Yearwood sets the stage by delving into the historical significance of the 1811 revolt and drawing connections to the contemporary struggles in Cancer Alley. Through compelling narratives and insightful commentary, he highlights the resilience and strength of these communities in the face of systemic injustice. This episode not only educates listeners about the critical issues in Cancer Alley but also underscores the importance of community action and environmental justice. Tune in to this powerful episode to kick off a series dedicated to amplifying the voices of those on the front lines of change. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The post Community Over Cancer Alley Intro w/ Rev Yearwood appeared first on The Coolest Show.

In this episode of “The Coolest Show,” we delve into the world of artivism with an inspiring lineup of guests. Hosted by JaRel Clay from the Hip Hop Caucus, the episode features intimate interviews with Tarriona “Tank” Ball from Tank and the Bangas, Singer-Songwriter Durand Bernarr, Cooke Nasty, and Ryan Butler from the Recording Academy. These talented artists and artivists share their journeys and insights on the intersection of art and activism, emphasizing the powerful role art plays in reflecting personal experiences and driving social change. Tank, Cooke, Durand, and Ryan each bring unique perspectives to the conversation, discussing how their respective communities have influenced their creative expressions. Cooke speaks about the importance of authenticity and representation, while Tank shares stories of blending musical genres to highlight cultural narratives. Durand emphasizes the role of music in healing and unity, and Ryan sheds light on the Recording Academy’s efforts to support artists who use their platforms for advocacy. Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to a rich discussion on the impact of art in fostering community and promoting education. The guests explore how they balance entertaining their audiences with delivering powerful messages that resonate on a deeper level. By the end of the episode, it’s clear that artivism is not just a concept but a lived experience for these artists, inspiring listeners to embrace their own creative potential for positive change. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The post Movement Music & Artivism: The Marathon Continues w/ Tarriona “Tank” Ball, Durand Bernarr, Cooke Nasty & Ryan Butler appeared first on The Coolest Show.