Coming Clean - An Environmental Podcast

Dr. Elmore and Dr. Breyfogle discuss their backgrounds in environmental history and their involvement in the COP 28 conference in Dubai. They explore the intersection of history and the environment, the perception of environmental challenges by students, and the historical context of climate change. They also share insights from their experience at COP 28 and the impact on their students. The conversation delves into the history and evolution of climate change negotiations, the surprising dynamics of COP events, and the personal experiences and takeaways of the speakers. It also emphasizes the importance of individual actions and the need for a collective effort to address environmental challenges. Takeaways The intersection of history and the environment provides valuable insights into the challenges of climate change and the historical context of environmental issues. Students today perceive environmental challenges as non-partisan and are actively engaged in addressing environmental issues. The COP 28 conference in Dubai provided an invaluable opportunity for students to engage with global leaders, learn about climate change initiatives, and have their voices heard. The historical context of climate change and environmental challenges offers valuable lessons and solutions for addressing present-day issues. The involvement of educators and students at COP 28 highlighted the importance of learning, networking, and actively participating in global climate change discussions. The history and evolution of climate change negotiations reveal the changing dynamics of international cooperation. COP events operate on the basis of peer pressure and goodwill, rather than penalization or sanctions, to encourage nations to commit to climate change goals. Individual actions and choices matter significantly in contributing to sustainability and addressing environmental challenges. The need for a collective effort and a bipartisan approach to environmental issues is emphasized, drawing from historical examples of bipartisan cooperation in the past. Follow American Conservation Coalition on all major social platforms at ACC_National. Donate to ACC: https://donate.acc.eco/comingclean  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen is joined by Congressman Brandon Williams, Congress’s ONLY nuclear engineer, to discuss the need for a systems engineering approach in policy-making, the challenges faced by nuclear energy advocates in Congress, and the importance of embracing complexity in environmental policymaking decisions as we combat climate change. He also addresses the climate challenge, the role of conservatives in climate leadership, and the future of nuclear technology while highlighting the impact of political decisions on energy and the need for thoughtful solutions as we tackle these complex issues. Takeaways It’s important to employ a systems engineering approach in policy-making and to embrace complexity in addressing complex issues. Conservatives need to play a major role in climate leadership and bring thoughtful solutions to the table to address the climate challenge. Nuclear technology’s future is bright. Political decisions we make today on energy and the environment have a direct impact on the environment. Follow American Conservation Coalition on all major social platforms at ACC_National. Donate to ACC: https://donate.acc.eco/comingclean  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Casey Sacks, the president of Bridge Valley Community and Tech College in West Virginia, discusses workforce development and the role of community colleges in preparing students for the emerging clean energy job market. She shares her background in education and her experience working at the US Department of Education. Dr. Sacks also highlights the opportunities and challenges in West Virginia, including the state's focus on green tech and the importance of partnerships between higher education institutions and businesses. She emphasizes the value of community colleges in providing affordable education and training for in-demand careers. Takeaways Community colleges play a crucial role in workforce development by providing affordable education and training for in-demand, clean economy careers. West Virginia is a state with many opportunities for economic development and is leading in the green tech and green energy transition. Partnerships between higher education institutions and businesses are essential for preparing students for the job market and meeting the needs of industries. There is a need to raise awareness about the diverse career opportunities available in fields like advanced manufacturing and clean energy. Community colleges are well-suited to serve adult learners and provide them with the skills needed to transition into higher-paying jobs. Follow American Conservation Coalition on all major social platforms at ACC_National. Donate to ACC: https://donate.acc.eco/comingclean  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andrew Spencer, author of 'Hope for God's Creation, Stewardship in an Age of Futility,' discusses the gap in conservative Christian engagement with environmental issues. He explains that the gap emerged due to the liberal evolution of environmental ethics and the borrowing of language from progressive Christian thinkers. Spencer emphasizes the importance of answering four fundamental questions: the value and origin of the created order, the human place within creation, and the end goal of creation. He highlights the need for Christians to engage in positive ways, balance economic and environmental trade-offs, and promote substantial healing rather than pursuing perfection. Spencer also advocates for the embrace of nuclear energy as a means to increase human flourishing and address environmental concerns. Takeaways The gap in conservative Christian engagement with environmental issues emerged due to the liberal evolution of environmental ethics and the borrowing of language from progressive Christian thinkers. Answering four fundamental questions about the value and origin of the created order, the human place within creation, and the end goal of creation is crucial for developing a Christian environmental ethic. Christians should engage in positive ways, balance economic and environmental trade-offs, and pursue substantial healing rather than perfection in their stewardship of the environment. Nuclear energy has the potential to increase human flourishing and address environmental concerns, but it requires regulatory reform and a focus on cost-effectiveness and waste management. Conservatives and Christians should promote a narrative that values both human life and the environment, highlighting the importance of responsible stewardship and the pursuit of the common good. Follow American Conservation Coalition on all major social platforms at ACC_National. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The title was Benji’s joke, clearly. Stephen Perkins is joined by Coming Clean and ACC Founder Benji Backer as he kicks off the tour for his new book “The Conservative Environmentalist”, a treatise on what it means to merge two terms which started off synonymous.  Takeaways The book 'The Conservative Environmentalist' offers a comprehensive and common-sense approach to environmentalism from a right-of-center perspective. The narrative around climate change needs to change, focusing on innovation, economic growth, and human flourishing. ACC and its members play a crucial role in shaping the conservative environmental movement and creating a third path between alarmism and denial. Short-term wins, such as permitting reform and plugging orphaned wells, can pave the way for larger steps in environmental action. The book tour and the movement as a whole are driven by the collective efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to finding sustainable solutions. Follow American Conservation Coalition on all major social platforms at ACC_National. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen Perkins is joined by Dave McCormick, a candidate for United States Senate in Pennsylvania, who discusses his background and motivation for running for office. He highlights the dysfunction in Washington and the need for new leadership on the environment. McCormick also emphasizes the importance of a conservative approach to the environment and the need to effectively communicate Republican views on environmental issues. The two the competition with China and the connection between energy policy and national security. McCormick advocates for involving the fossil fuel industry in environmental solutions and emphasizes the importance of nuclear energy. The interview closes with Dave sharing his favorite place in nature and recommends the book 'The Splendid and the Vile' by Erik Larson.  Takeaways Dave McCormick is motivated by a sense of service and a desire to provide new leadership in Washington. Conservatives should adopt a pragmatic approach to the environment, recognizing that economic growth and environmental conservation are not mutually exclusive. The competition with China is a critical environmental issue, and the United States must invest in research and development to maintain its technological edge. Energy independence is crucial for national security, and nuclear energy should be a significant part of the energy mix. Involving the fossil fuel industry in environmental solutions and investing in workforce training are essential for a successful energy transition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Siegel, Energy and Policy Reporter at Politico and host of the Politico Energy podcast, to discuss his career following energy and climate across the halls of Congress. He emphasizes the importance of objective reporting and the challenges of covering environmental issues in a partisan media landscape. Siegel also highlights the shift in Republican attitudes towards climate change and the recent Energy Week in Congress. He shares his most impactful stories and his motivation for journalism. He concludes by expressing his excitement for the future of energy and climate policy. Takeaways Objective reporting is crucial in the energy and environment beat to cut through partisan narratives and provide accurate information. There has been a significant shift in Republican attitudes towards climate change, with more members acknowledging the issue and proposing bipartisan solutions. Energy Week in Congress is a platform for Republicans to showcase their priorities and promote bills related to energy and climate policy. The media plays a vital role in informing the public and challenging policymakers on energy and climate issues. Josh Siegel recommends the book 'The War Below' and the podcast 'The Big Switch' for further insights into critical minerals and energy topics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Nevers, Senior Director of Public Policy at electric car maker and tech company Rivian, discusses the company's background, its position in the EV market, and the challenges faced by the industry amidst an unprecedented slowdown and investor uncertainty. He shares his own journey to Rivian and highlights the importance of supporting environmentally conscious brands. Nevers emphasizes the need for policies and incentives that accelerate the transition to EVs and promote sustainability. He also discusses Rivian's efforts to reduce its environmental impact and engage communities in clean energy initiatives. The conversation concludes with a sneak preview of the upcoming unveiling of Rivian's R2 in a pivotal time for the EV industry. Key Takeaways Rivian is a domestic tech and EV-only auto company that aims to protect the environment and build sustainable vehicles. The EV market is facing challenges, including consumer uncertainty and range anxiety, but there is a growing range of EV models with improved range and affordability. Rivian engages customers through brand stories and supports policy efforts to improve charging infrastructure and make EVs more accessible. Reducing environmental impact is a priority for Rivian, and the company actively accounts for carbon emissions and works towards sustainability goals. Supporting environmentally conscious brands and advocating for policies that accelerate the transition to EVs are crucial for a sustainable future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen is joined by college students (and ACC Chapter Leaders) Brenden Fowler and Danny Frindt, who head up the Ohio State University (OSU) branch of the ACC. They discuss the branch's makeup, membership, local impact, and upcoming events. The OSU branch is the largest sustainability organization on campus and has one in 66 students at OSU as ACC members. The branch aims to involve students from all majors and interests in environmentalism. They organize events such as hikes, tailgates, and trash pickups to bring people together and promote sustainability. The branch's local impact includes gaining recognition, influencing recycling policies, and being taken seriously in the community. They also discuss the ACC Sustainability Week and the Earth Day Cleanup Challenge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, ACC CEO Danielle Butcher Franz brings the HEAT on our first edition of ClLIMATE RANTS. In the true spirit of Festivus, Dani goes off on disruptive activism - responding to an LA Times article questioning how many ounces of soup can fix Climate Change - and more with our host Stephen Perkins! How Throwing Soup At The Mona Lisa Can Help Fight Climate Change: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-01/climate-change-activism-mona-lisa-artwork  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACC Action President Chris Barnard sits down for a debate on climate with North Dakota Governor and former Presidential candidate Doug Burgum, recorded ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Chris and the Governor discuss why the Biden administration’s current EV policies are’ team China’, the history of the cradle of conservation, why the climate issue is an important one for the GOP to continue to pounce on other than ignore, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACC Action President Chris Barnard sits down for a debate on climate with former Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, recorded ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Chris and Vivek discuss the importance of the climate issue to young voters, where they each think the party is going, the things on which we can all agree and agree to disagree, why the climate issue is an important one for the GOP to continue to pounce on other than ignore, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACC Action President Chris Barnard sits down for a long talk with Governor Chris Sununu, acting as a surrogate for Ambassador Nikki Haley’s Presidential campaign. Chris and the Governor discuss Nikki Haley’s performance in recent debates, why the climate issue is an important one for the GOP to continue to pounce on other than ignore, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Stephen Perkins is joined by ACC Action President Chris Barnard, to discuss the special series of episodes dropping this week featuring discussions with Republican presidential candidates on the environment. The purpose of the series is to get candidates on the record about their approach to climate, environment, and energy issues, particularly to engage young voters. The discussions with candidates such as Governor Doug Burgum, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Governor Chris Sununu on behalf of Ambassador Nikki Haley are historic, as they mark the first open discussions on climate change within the modern history of the Republican party. The chapters cover the candidates' approaches, their views on climate change, and the opportunities for Republicans to engage on climate and environmental issues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heather Kelly, founder of Heather's Choice, takes us behind the scenes of her journey to Shark Tank and shares the incredible story of building her outdoor food company, and what it takes to emphasize sustainability and quality in business. Stephen and Heather delve into the importance of educating consumers on sustainable food sources. From the early days of the company to the decision to expand into daily meals, discover the obstacles she encountered in packaging and maintaining a commitment to sustainability. Beyond the business aspect, Heather provides valuable insights into fostering a positive company culture and shares practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her passion for conservation shines through as she encourages listeners to actively engage in local community efforts. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with Heather Kelly, where entrepreneurship meets sustainability, and discover how one entrepreneur is making a difference in the world of outdoor food. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us in this episode as we delve into the world of regenerative agriculture with Will Harris, the visionary behind White Oak Pastures. You have undoubtedly seen him on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, and now he joins host Stephen Perkins and helps us discover how a traditional farming operation transformed into a beacon of sustainability and environmental stewardship. We explore the principles of regenerative farming, its pivotal role in combating climate change, and the innovative practices employed at White Oak Pastures to regenerate soil health, biodiversity, and community resilience. Gain insights into the future of sustainable agriculture, the challenges faced, and the tangible impact individuals can make through conscious consumption. Tune in for a compelling conversation on cultivating a greener, more sustainable future through regenerative agriculture. Check out Will's new book: https://whiteoakpastures.com/pages/a-bold-return-to-giving-a-damn Learn more about White Oak Pastures: https://whiteoakpastures.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join host Stephen as he reflects on an incredible year of accomplishments and strides toward success (and some big transitions at the American Conservation Coalition). Reflecting on the past year's achievements showcases the organization's remarkable growth and achievements across ACC’s various domains. From new chapters, to unprecedented media hits, to record member numbers, and community engagement to innovative initiatives fostering progress, the ACC's accomplishments stand as a testament to its commitment to excellence. Looking forward, the ACC remains poised for even greater achievements and continued success in the upcoming year, building upon the foundation of its remarkable accomplishments in 2023. Donate to ACC’s efforts: https://www.acc.eco/donate  Send in your ‘Climate Rants’ to comingclean@acc.eco to be part of a special NEW SEGMENT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen Perkins catches up with Government Affairs Director Morgan Brummund to talk about ACC’s agenda on Capitol Hill and how that translates to members - both from the standpoint of getting involved and what the outlook on ACC’s agenda is.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can being green also produce green? Can you protect both the environment and economic development? Stephen Perkins catches up with Jess Turner, President of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable about the outdoor recreation economy and how the idea of that economy incentivizing good stewardship is the core of ACC’s mission.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen Perkins is joined by nuclear engineer, friend of ACC and current Miss America Grace Stanke for a surprise bonus episode where the two discuss Grace’s recent trip to the Hill to advocate for Nuclear Energy, her history with the clean energy movement, a crash course on communicating the nuclear message (from a nuclear engineer, no less!) to our friends and neighbors and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices