Embracing Climate Optimism with Anne Therese Gennari

This is an edited version of the live Aug. 5 panel featuring all of the season five guests. Take a break from your daily grind and join Climify host Eric Benson for an energizing conversation that redefines what it means to be hopeful in the face of the climate crisis. Featuring a dynamic panel of changemakers — Ann Therese Genari, Jenny Morgan, Kate O'Neil, Cate Mingoya-LaFortune, Cynthia Leung, and Dr. Dana Fisher — this event invites you to explore the power of climate optimism not as blind hope, but as a courageous commitment to action. Together, we’ll unpack what optimism means, why it’s essential to resilience, and how we can move from theory to practice in our personal and collective lives. We'll discuss how to set—and revisit—boundaries to sustain our energy and values, and explore how strength and perseverance can manifest differently depending on our perspective.Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting your climate journey, The Climate Shift offers a space for honest conversation, renewed energy, and a path forward grounded in community, agency, and possibility.Bring your favorite drink to connect, reflect, and co-create what comes next.

Welcome to another great crossover episode where we introduce you to another podcast you should follow and listen to. This time it’s High Tech High’s Unboxed Podcast hosted by Alec Patton.In this episode, Alec talks to Partners in School Innovation CEO Derek Mitchell and Executive Director of California Academy of Sciences Scott Sampson about what “regenerative education” is, and why the world needs it right now.

We are excited to bring you another great podcast crossover with the Hey Change Podcast hosted by season 5 guest Anne Therese Gennari.A Climate Optimist’s Guide to Sustainable Living Join Anne as she brings new life to the Hey Change Podcast and kickstart Season 5 with Mr. Climate Optimism himself - Charlie Sellars!Charlie Sellars is the director of sustainability at Microsoft and, most importantly, the author of the newly released book What We Can Do: A Climate Optimist's Guide to Sustainable Living.His book pulls from his experience at Microsoft to empower people on climate across their personal, professional, and political lives. He helps us realize that all of us are more powerful against climate change than we think, and that while nobody can do everything, everybody can do something. His book offers pragmatic, data-driven evidence to help direct us to where we can have the most impact across everything we do.In this conversation, they explored the journey of sustainability, especially as it relates to companies and careers, emphasizing that every job can contribute to climate action. They also discuss the importance of maximizing opportunities in sustainability rather than focusing solely on minimizing our negative impacts.Additionally, they explore the balance between individual responsibility and corporate accountability in sustainability efforts.For example, did you know your tabs consume energy, even when you’re not using them? Or that most Xbox users leave their games unattended, wasting energy when the console could be switched off?This and the role that choice architecture among smart design plays in creating pathways for a more mindful existence are just a few of the things covered in this empowering conversation.Two climate optimists coming together to plant seeds for radical change — this is a conversation you don't want to miss!

In this final episode of season five, Eric Benson talks with sociologist and American University Professor Dr. Dana Fisher for a frank conversation about the current state of climate action and our political and social futures. Dr. Fisher introduces her compelling idea of “apocalyptic optimism” and explains why grassroots activism, community resilience, and embracing your anger are key to driving real change, as it’s a “perfectly wonderful time to be shrill.” From pandemic revelations to personal awakenings, Dr. Fisher shares stories and strategies that will inspire both seasoned climate advocates and curious newcomers. Tune in to learn how you can channel urgency into action, find common ground with your neighbors, and learn why now is the time to do both. If you want to buy Dana’s new book, use the code CUP20 for 20% off of Saving Ourselves: From Climate Shocks to Climate Action

Join host Eric Benson for an inspiring and emotional conversation with climate leader Cynthia Leung as she shares her journey from being moved by An Inconvenient Truth to making real change in the energy industry. This episode is packed with powerful insights on how to align your passion with your career, overcome challenges like impostor syndrome, and take meaningful action in the face of climate despair.Discover how concepts like "radical acceptance," social and emotional currency, and the "states of tragic" can empower you to stay hopeful and effective. Learn practical tips on mentorship, community building, and the small steps that add up to a big impact. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay optimistic while fighting for the planet, this episode is for you.

Can small steps lead to big climate wins? In this episode, host Eric Benson chats with Cate Mingoya-LaFortune, author of Climate Action for Busy People, about how everyday choices can drive meaningful change. They explore why thinking local matters, how communities spark climate momentum, and how understanding the systems behind climate policy can empower even the busiest among us. With practical tips and real-world examples this conversation is a down-to-earth guide to making climate action part of your daily routine—no cape required.

Trigger Warning: This conversation contains content on suicide.Host Eric Benson speaks with Tech Humanist Kate O’Neill to explore how technology, empathy, and bold thinking can spark real climate action. From strategic optimism to future-ready solutions, Kate shares powerful insights on bridging AI, tech, and sustainability. Whether you're in climate, tech, or just want to make a difference, this episode will leave you energized and ready to act.

Join host Eric Benson for a powerful conversation with author Jenny Morgan, whose new book Cancel Culture and Climate takes a bold look at the fractures within the climate movement. Jenny shares her personal journey—facing binary thinking, cancel culture, and the urgent need for a new kind of empathetic dialogue. Together, Eric and Jenny explore how kindness, curiosity, and honest conversation can bridge divides and spark real climate solutions. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about healing divisions and moving the climate movement forward with courage and connection.

Host Eric welcomes Anne Therese Gennari — TEDx speaker, educator, author, and self-proclaimed climate optimist. Together, they explore Anne's inspiring journey toward embracing and promoting climate optimism.From the importance of inner growth and spiritual transformation to taking practical, grounded action, Anne shares how we can shift our mindset in the face of climate challenges. They explore how slowing down, avoiding the trap of toxic positivity, and tapping into imagination and regeneration can fuel real change.If you’ve ever wondered how to stay hopeful and motivated in the climate movement, this episode is for you. Tune in for an uplifting and thought-provoking start to Season 5!

In this season, we explore the duality of climate action by addressing our collective hope for a sustainable future while acknowledging the skepticism, grief, and challenges that come with it. Join our six amazing guests as we discuss meaningful ways to maintain hope and also hold space for grief in our fight against climate change.