Insurance in Crisis: Steven Rothstein on Climate, Capital, and the Path Forward

In this episode of the Climate Correction™ Podcast, we open the door to a conversation typically held behind closed doors. I sit down with someone who has spent decades in the rooms where financial decisions are made and where the impact of climate change is becoming impossible to ignore.  Our guest is Steven M. Rothstein, the founding managing director of the Ceres Accelerator for Sustainable Capital Markets. Steven brings more than 40 years of leadership across public and private sectors, with experience spanning local to global levels of government, nonprofit boards, and philanthropic coalitions. His work today focuses on transforming the financial systems that underpin our economy to address the climate crisis head-on.  In this candid recording, Steven and I discuss the mounting pressures facing the insurance industry and the communities already paying the price for climate inaction. He shares insight on the bold opportunities available if capital is moved in the right direction.  We start with the hard truth: in 2024 alone, there were 27 billion-dollar weather disasters in the U.S., causing more than $182 billion in damages. And yet, only 29% of the largest insurers have disclosed measurable climate targets. That gap between awareness and accountability costs lives, livelihoods, and local economies. One in 13 homeowners in the U.S. is now uninsured. An estimated $1.6 trillion in assets are exposed due to insurance gaps.  Steven outlines a path forward. From Ceres’ 10-point plan for insurers to shift from reactive claims-paying to proactive risk prevention to the $8 trillion investment potential insurers hold to fund climate solutions, the message is clear: The insurance industry has the power to shape our future.   We also explore how AI, climate scenario analysis and forward-looking risk modeling can give insurers a competitive edge. And we ask: Where does the government come in? Steven makes the case for a federal climate risk reinsurance program, stating that if private insurers pull out of high-risk areas, we need public protections designed to endure, not disappear with every election cycle.  This is a conversation for homeowners, policymakers, and every person who’s ever paid an insurance premium. It’s about rethinking the system and empowering it to build resilience, not just reacting to ruin.  🔗 Explore Ceres’ insurance research and resources at ceres.org/accelerator/insurance   

In this episode of the Climate Correction Podcast, we’re joined by Lewis Pugh, the UN Patron of the Oceans, endurance swimmer, and founder of the Lewis Pugh Foundation. He joins us for an inspiring conversation about courage, the climate, and the power of the human spirit.  Lewis is known for his record-setting swims in the world’s most extreme environments, from the North Pole to Antarctica and the icy waters near Mount Everest. Through his daring expeditions, he has brought global attention to the urgent need for ocean conservation, helping secure protection for more than 3.5 million square kilometers of marine habitat.  Recorded just after his highly anticipated 2025 JAWS 50th Anniversary Swim off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard, this episode captures Lewis in a moment of reflection and deep motivation. He shares how he became both a swimmer and an advocate, the physical and emotional toll of long-distance swims in fragile ocean ecosystems, and what this latest mission means to him personally and for world leaders. We explore the shifting state of our oceans, what he’s learned from swimming alongside nature’s most powerful predators, and how he mentally prepares for uncertainty and danger in open water.  This episode isn’t just about adventure. It’s about action. Lewis reminds us that ocean health is human health, and we all have a role to play in protecting the blue heart of our planet.  🔗 Learn more at lewispughfoundation.org and get involved in the fight for the future of our oceans. 

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Climate Correction Podcast, we’re joined by award-winning filmmaker Ashley Stokes, whose work stands at the intersection of storytelling, environmental consciousness, and emotional honesty. Ashley recently completed Good Natured, a powerful and personal documentary that invites viewers into her journey to understand the state of our planet and to find beauty, connection, and courage amid the uncertainty.  Introduced to us by our friends at WEDU PBS in Tampa Bay, Ashley brings a fresh and deeply human perspective to the climate conversation. Through intimate interviews with conservationists, innovators, and everyday environmental heroes, Good Natured shows us how climate action doesn’t come in one shape or size. In fact, Ashley emphasizes the idea that the diversity of climate solutions is not only natural, it’s essential.  Ashley shares how a quote from environmental activist and author Joanna Macy became the heartbeat of the film and the inspiration behind her journey:  “When we face the darkness of our time, openly and together, we tap deep reserves of strength. The gateway of despair opens to belonging. We think despair condemns us to isolation because it seems so taboo in our culture. But as we find, again and again, what despair reveals is the depth of our caring. We hurt because we care. We are liberated because at the heart of our despair is our love for the world and our love for life itself.”  This perspective allows emotional honesty to guide action and is central to Ashley’s direction. Rather than bypass the heaviness of climate grief, she invites us to feel it together. It’s in our shared vulnerability that we reconnect to ourselves, to one another, and to the Earth.  Throughout the conversation, Ashley reflects on the healing power of community, the wisdom of nature, and the importance of reconnecting with both in our search for meaning and direction. Good Natured serves as a reminder that fear alone doesn’t shape the future; creativity, love, and collective resilience do.  Whether you’re deeply involved in climate action or just starting to explore your role, Ashley’s insights will leave you encouraged, grounded, and more connected to the story we all share.  🎥 Watch Good Natured now at wedu.org/goodnatured  📊 Discussed: Pew Research on Americans’ emotional responses to climate change  🌿 Explored: Emotional resilience, nature as teacher, diverse pathways to climate action 

In this special episode of the Climate Correction Podcast, host Shannon Maganiezin welcomes Thais Lopez Vogel, co-founder of VoLo Foundation, and TV host Zay Harding to celebrate the launch of The Visioneers with Zay Harding, now airing on CBS WKND and CBS.com. This groundbreaking new show is produced by Hearst Media Production Group in exclusive partnership with VoLo Foundation.   They dive into the inspiration behind the show, which spotlights extraordinary individuals and communities leading the way toward a more sustainable future. Thais and Zay share how powerful storytelling can spark real-world change, and why now is the perfect moment to amplify innovation, resilience, and hope.  Highlights from The Visioneers include:  Learn how oysters filter murky water in real time, and why it matters  Meet the 12-year-old prodigy revolutionizing tornado monitoring and alerts  Explore the sunny science behind surfing  Learn how a European city committed to clean energy is now profiting from it 

Tune in to Climate Correction™ - Changing Hearts and Minds with The CLEO Institute, an engaging panel discussion recorded live and featuring esteemed climate advocates Yoca Arditi-Rocha, Nicole Gazo, and Ellen Siegel, moderated by Shannon Maganiezin. This session explores effective strategies for transforming public perception and fostering community engagement in climate action. Yoca Arditi-Rocha, Executive Director of The CLEO Institute, shares her experience in climate advocacy and education, emphasizing how grassroots movements are crucial for driving policy change. Nicole Gazo, a passionate youth activist, offers valuable insights into mobilizing younger generations and underscores the role of education in raising climate awareness. Ellen Siegel, recognized for her work in community resilience, discusses practical approaches to building sustainable and adaptive communities. Shannon Maganiezin expertly guides the conversation, covering both the challenges and opportunities in shifting public attitudes toward climate issues. This episode delivers actionable insights and inspiring stories that showcase the power of informed, united communities in creating meaningful environmental change. Tune in to learn from the experiences and lessons shared by these dynamic leaders in the climate space.

Talking Climate Across the Aisle with Kathleen Biggins, Founder of C-Change Conversations In this episode, we’re joined by Kathleen Biggins, founder and president of C-Change Conversations, a nonprofit committed to fostering non-partisan, science-based conversations about climate change. Kathleen shares her journey from journalism and healthcare to climate communication and how she and her bipartisan team developed the acclaimed C-Change Primer—an accessible, apolitical introduction to climate science that’s been presented to over 20,000 people across 32 states. We explore why bridging political divides is essential for meaningful climate action, how to talk about climate change around the kitchen table, and ways to engage skeptics using shared values like health, safety, and economic well-being. Kathleen also shares personal stories and examples from the Primer series that inspire understanding and action—even in the most polarized spaces. With a 90%+ consensus rate across audiences, C-Change proves that inclusive, solutions-oriented conversations can move the needle. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to talk climate without the conflict.

In this episode of the Climate Correction Podcast, we welcome back Chris Castro, Founding Director, Executive Vice President, and Chief Sustainability Officer at Climate First Bank. Chris has spent his career advancing sustainability, clean energy, and climate action at every level—from local government to federal leadership and now in the private sector.  Joining us just days after leaving his post as Chief of Staff for the Office of State and Community Energy Programs (SCEP) at the U.S. Department of Energy, Chris reflects on his work managing a $16 billion portfolio of grants and technical assistance to help states, tribes, and communities transition to a 100% carbon-free future.  We revisit his first Climate Correction appearance and examine how the climate landscape has evolved since then. Chris offers a behind-the-scenes look at his role in the Biden-Harris Administration, the implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and its long-term implications. He discusses the risks and opportunities for climate policy, sustainable business, and investment under new leadership as political tides shift.  Chris highlights the private sector’s crucial role in driving climate solutions beyond government action. Finally, he shares his vision for the future and how listeners can stay engaged in the fight against climate change. Don’t miss this timely and insightful conversation! 

In this episode of the Climate Correction Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Tonmoy Ghosh, a Master’s student in the Department of Civil Engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. Tonmoy’s journey into environmental engineering began with a deep passion for improving the quality of our environment and leaving a better planet for future generations. Tonmoy shares his inspiration for pursuing environmental research, particularly his focus on identifying environmental challenges and exploring sustainable engineering solutions. His dedication has led him to develop an innovative project titled “Use of Low-Cost Sensors for Addressing Environmental Justice.” This project measures air pollutants using affordable sensors to promote equity and accessibility in environmental monitoring—breaking barriers for underserved communities. As the winner of VoLo Foundation’s prestigious VISTA Award, Tonmoy is being recognized for his leadership in Vision, Innovation, Sustainability, Technology, and Action in climate solutions. His University will receive a $10,000 grant to advance his project and further its impact in the fight against climate change. Tune in to hear Tonmoy discuss: • How his project was inspired and developed. • The critical environmental challenges it addresses. • Its potential impact on communities and the environment. • How he plans to use the $10,000 VISTA grant to further his mission. Tonmoy will be presenting on the main stage at the 2025 Climate Correction Conference, hosted at The Celeste Hotel in Orlando, FL, on March 12-13, 2025. Be sure to grab your tickets at volofoundation.org/https://volofoundation.org/climate-correction/ and join us for this inspiring event. Episode Highlights: • Tonmoy’s vision for a more equitable approach to monitoring and measuring environmental pollution. • Why low-cost sensors are game-changers for addressing environmental justice. • The importance of fostering innovation and sustainability in the fight against climate change. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about actionable solutions to climate issues and the inspiring story of one individual making a significant impact!

  In this compelling episode of the Climate Correction Podcast, we sit down with Nathaniel Keohane, President of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES), to explore the current state of the climate crisis and the opportunities that lie ahead.  Nat kicks off by addressing the alarming climate records set over the past 18 months, from unprecedented global temperature increases to devastating weather events like hurricanes Helene and Milton, as well as wildfires causing smoky skies across the Northeast. He paints a sobering picture of the impacts we’re already experiencing and the urgency for immediate action.  Despite political challenges, Nat offers a hopeful perspective, highlighting the growing momentum behind clean energy. He shares insights into the economic benefits of clean energy tax credits, the importance of streamlining permitting processes for renewable infrastructure, and the critical alignment of trade policies with climate goals.  Fresh from COP29 in Baku, Nat reflects on the optimistic energy at the conference, fueled by businesses embracing the low-carbon transition. However, he also explores the challenges posed by the potential U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and what that could mean for international climate collaboration.  Nat also unpacks the transformative potential of voluntary carbon markets. He discusses how these markets can mobilize climate finance, ensure the integrity of carbon credits, and support corporate climate commitments, especially in addressing Scope 3 emissions and deforestation.  Finally, Nat emphasizes the importance of building resilience to climate impacts, sharing examples of what companies are doing to protect their communities and adapt to a rapidly changing environment.  Whether you’re a climate advocate, policy enthusiast, or just curious about where we stand in the fight against climate change, this episode is packed with expert insights and actionable hope for a sustainable future.  Tune in to hear Nat’s vision for a cleaner, more resilient world!  Links:  • Nathaniel Keohane’s TED Talk: A new economic model for protecting tropical forests  • C2ES: Center for Climate and Energy Solutions  • Nat’s latest blog post: How a new twist on carbon credits could help unlock climate finance   

In this episode of the Climate Correction podcast, we are excited to feature Stanley Wang as part of our Summer Youth Activist series. Stanley, a recent graduate of William & Mary with a major in Economics and a minor in Mathematics, shares his journey from college volunteer to anti-poverty advocate in Boston. Drawing on his background in the Citizens Climate Lobby as well as the Carbon Fee and Dividend Movement, Wang offers insightful perspectives on the importance of bipartisan cooperation and the critical role of youth in advancing environmental economics. Tune in to learn about his experiences, the state of the carbon tax movement, and how you can get involved in making a positive impact on climate policy.  Show Notes  Guest: Stanley Wang  Series: Summer Youth Activist  Episode Highlights:  How Things Started: Stanley discusses his initial involvement in climate activism during his college years.  Opportunity and Perceived Need:  The bipartisan agreement among youth, economists, and academics on carbon taxes.  The lack of awareness about carbon taxes and feasible directions in youth activism.  The bipartisan appeal of the Carbon Fee and Dividend initiative.  How We Are Different: An exploration of what sets the Carbon Fee and Dividend Movement apart from other environmental initiatives.  Values/Theory of Action: Understanding the core values and theoretical foundations that drive the movement.  State of the Movement: A look at the progress made so far and current efforts within the movement.  How Viewers Can Get Involved: Practical steps for listeners to take action and support the cause.  Additional Resources:  Instagram: Follow us at @carbonfeeanddividend.  Website: Visit cfdmovement.org for more information.  Write to Congress: Encourage legislative action at bit.ly/writecongresshere.  Merchandise: Support the movement by purchasing stickers, t-shirts, and more at cfdmovement.org/merch.  Join Us: Students can become part of the initiative at cfdmovement.org/join.