In this episode of Doing Hope, I speak with the unstoppable Leslie Glustrom, a biochemist-turned-climate-activist who has spent over 20 years working to decarbonise the U.S. electricity system from the ground up. Leslie brings extraordinary persistence, deep systems knowledge, and a refreshingly long-term view to the climate movement.

Based in Boulder, Colorado, Leslie walked away from a paid career in biochemistry to focus full-time on climate advocacy—without pay—when it was still a niche concern in the U.S. She’s been instrumental in helping Colorado shift from over 90% fossil fuel electricity to a projected 90% renewable energy by the end of this decade. Her approach? Deep systems change, relentless local advocacy, and growing new messengers at every turn.

💡 Highlights from our conversation:

* 🧪 Her background in biochemistry and how it informed her early recognition of flawed climate “solutions” like clean coal.

* ⚡ The focus on electricity decarbonisation as a key leverage point for real climate progress.

* 📉 A candid reflection on how this work is "99% failure, 1% success"—and why that 1% matters.

* 🛠️ Practical strategies: working through all three branches of government, particularly at the state and local level, to create lasting energy policy change.

* 🔥 Why creating more messengers is the most sustainable form of activism.

* 💚 How to prevent burnout, find joy in the work, and stay hopeful over the long haul.

* 🕯️ Hope as a verb: why hope is a moral imperative—and how we can all light candles in the darkness.

Whether you’re just starting your climate journey or have been at it for years, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that change takes time, but it is possible—and worth it.

“ If we're really committed, we have to be committed to the vision, whether we are gonna get to live to see it or not.”

Leslie Glustrom

Listen now and be inspired to plant your own seeds of change.

What inspires you from Leslie’s story? Share with us in the comments 👇🏼

👉 Learn more about Leslie and her work:

* Clean Energy Action

* Empower Our Future – Clean Energy. Local Power.

* Colorado Renewable Energy Society

* Colorado Coalition for a Livable Climate – Advocating strategies for reducing

greenhouse gas emissions to a level supportive of a livable climate.

* Connect with Leslie on LinkedIn

🙋 Want to connect with me or share feedback?

* Email: claudia@claudiageratz.com

* Website: claudiageratz.com

* LinkedIn: @claudiageratz

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🎵 Music by Alberto Gariglio Instagram | YouTube

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit positiveclimatecareers.substack.com