Join us for a conversation with co-authors Susan Varlamoff and Dr. Rob McDowell as we mark the 10th anniversary of the groundbreaking Archdiocese of Atlanta's Laudato Si’ Action Plan. This episode explores the faith-rooted vision that sparked a movement, the science and strategy behind the plan, and the enduring impact it’s had on communities across Atlanta and beyond.
Just in time for America Recycles Day, we’re lacing them up with Bobby Johnson, founder of Eco Sneakers!Bobby shares how one pair of discarded sneakers can spark hope, dignity, and environmental impact across communities. His story is a powerful reminder that purpose walks where others see waste.
We welcome the Sisters of Holy Wisdom Monastery in Madison, Wisconsin. Known for their contemplative approach to environmental stewardship, the sisters have restored over 170 acres of native prairie and oak savanna, transforming the land into a vibrant ecosystem of biodiversity and spiritual renewal.
Drake Starling of Network Lobby for Catholic Social Justice is a faith-rooted change maker and community resilience advocate. He explores how spiritual values shape bold environmental leadership. From grassroots organizing to systemic impact, Drake shares stories of hope, healing, and the power of congregations to lead climate solutions.
Beth Remmes, from Georgia Interfaith Power and Light, shares how her deep spiritual grounding shapes her work in environmental justice and emotional resilience. As a facilitator of Active Hope and a leader within GIPL’s Four Directions Fund, Beth draws on faith not just as inspiration—but as a call to action. She explores how spiritual communities can move from ecological grief to collective healing, and how storytelling rooted in belief can mobilize change. Her work reminds us that sustainability isn’t just technical—it’s sacred.
Chandra Farley, Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of Atlanta, shares her personal journey from community cheerleader to clean energy strategist, revealing how faith, family, and fierce commitment to justice shaped her path. We explore how sustainability becomes transformational when rooted in equity, and how faith communities can lead the charge through policy, partnerships, and storytelling.
We’re joined Lisa Sharon Harper, founder of Freedom Road and prophetic voice for justice, faith, and environmental healing.Lisa shares her personal journey, the mission behind Freedom Road, and how spiritual formation and systemic change go hand in hand.
Urban revitalization powerhouse Majora Carter is joining us on the Faith & Sustainability Podcast!From the Bronx to boardrooms, Majora has redefined what it means to build sustainable, self-determined communities. We’re diving into her groundbreaking work, her personal journey, and how faith and justice intersect in the fight for environmental equity.
On this episode of the Faith & Sustainability Podcast, Rev. Canon Sally Bingham—founder of Interfaith Power & Light—shares how faith communities can lead the charge against climate change. Drawing from decades of advocacy, she explores the spiritual imperative to protect creation and mobilize congregations for environmental justice.
On this episode of Faith & Sustainability, Xavier University professor and zero waste advocate Bob Gedert shares how his faith fuels his fight against plastic pollution. He discusses the moral urgency of discontinuing single-use plastics and previews his upcoming book, Untangling Plastics, which explores the environmental and spiritual costs of petrochemical dependence.
In this episode, meet Sarah Kirikumwino, a dynamic youth leader and president of the Laudato Si' clubs through the Laudato Youth Initiative. Sarah shares how young people across Uganda are taking bold steps to live out their faith by caring for our common home—turning environmental awareness into impactful action inspired by Pope Francis' encyclical, Laudato Si'. Discover how youth are leading the charge in faith-based climate action and building a more sustainable future.
In this episode, we welcome KoAnn Vikoren Skrzyniarz, the visionary Founder and Chief Catalyst of Sustainable Brands, a global network of business leaders reimagining the role of brands in building a sustainable future. Since founding Sustainable Life Media in 2004, KoAnn has been a driving force behind purpose-led innovation and regenerative business practices. Join us as we explore how brands can become powerful agents of positive change for both people and the planet.
Kimberly White, chief sustainability officer for Cobb County and executive director of Keep Cobb Beautiful, shares her passion for building sustainable communities through practical, people-centered initiatives that connect policy, education and grassroots action.From clean energy planning to community cleanups, hear how Cobb County is becoming a model for local environmental leadership—and how residents are playing a vital role. Whether you're an eco-advocate, community organizer, or just curious about what sustainability looks like in action, Kimberly's insights will inspire you to think globally and act locally.
Dr. Larry McEvoy, founder of Epidemic Leadership, unpacks how spiritual conviction, community resilience, and strategic leadership can converge to navigate times of deep disruption.Drawing on his experience in emergency medicine, systems transformation, and leadership development, Dr. McEvoy shares a visionary perspective on how crises—from pandemics to climate disasters—reveal the urgent need for spiritually grounded, relational and regenerative leadership.This episode explores how faith can inform public health response, how environmental action becomes a moral imperative, and how leaders can build systems that heal rather than harm. It’s a powerful conversation for anyone seeking hope, clarity, and courage in complex times.
Rev. Dr. Ambrose Carroll, founder of Green The Church, discusses the intersection of faith, environmentalism, social justice and exploring the dynamic role of the Black Church in the sustainability movement.Dr. Carroll shares the deeply rooted spiritual and cultural connections between Black faith traditions and environmental stewardship—drawing on a rich legacy of community resilience, prophetic witness, and justice-driven activism. We dive into theunique challenges, bold opportunities, and transformational engagement that define this critical intersection.From church rooftops to climate justice rallies, from food deserts to energy democracy, this episode is a testament to the leadership rising from the pews to protect creation—and to inspire us all. . As a leading voice in faith-based climate advocacy, he explored how religious communities can mobilize for sustainability and environmental justice.
Rabbi Yonatan Neril, founder of the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development (ICSD) based in Jerusalem, explores the powerful intersection of spirituality and sustainability. With insights from global stages like the UN Climate Conferences, the World Economic Forum, and the Parliament of World Religions, Rabbi Neril shares how interfaith collaboration can inspire urgent ecological action. Discover how ancient wisdom meets today’s environmental challenges—and why hope begins with faith.
Dr. Richard Ezike of Argonne National Labs discusses his work in transportation and energy equity within the faith community.
Dr. Jairo Garcia of Georgia Tech and Urban Climate Nexus discusses his work with faith-based organization and their role in the urban climate action movement.
Professor and Associate Chair of Religious Studies at California State University Northridge, Dr. Amanda Baugh appears on this episode to discuss sustainability through the lens of various demographics as her research focuses on the intersection of religion and environmental concern.
Arun Agrawal, is the inaugural director of the Just Transformations to Sustainability Initiative at the University of Notre Dame. He joins the show to talk about how the Initiative aims to transform sustainability research and practice as well as seeking to transform the field of sustainability itself through high-impact, multidisciplinary research and knowledge creation, curricular innovations and global engagement.