Coming Clean - An Environmental Podcast

Episode 41 - Dusting Off Climate History: Insights from the Experts Jun 18, 2024

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

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Episode 40 - Congressman Brandon Williams || Catching Up With Congress's ONLY Nuclear Engineer Jun 04, 2024

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

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Episode 39 - The Crossroads Of Climate And Workforce Development May 21, 2024

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

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Episode 38 - The Gap in Conservative Christian Engagement with Environmental Issues May 07, 2024

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.

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Episode 37 - Guess Who’s Back With (Now Published Author) Benji Backer! Apr 23, 2024

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.

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Episode 36 - Conservative Environment Solutions with US Senate Candidate Dave McCormick Apr 09, 2024

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.

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Episode 35 - Politico Energy’s Josh Siegel | The Intersection of Environment, Politics, and Media Coverage Mar 27, 2024

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.

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Episode 34 - Rivian | Exploring The Challenges Facing The EV Market Mar 12, 2024

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.

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Episode 33 - How college students are setting out to Clean Up America Feb 27, 2024

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.

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Episode 32 - ‘How Many Ounces Of Soup Until We Fix Climate Change?’ And Other CLIMATE RANTS with ACC CEO Danielle Butcher Franz Feb 13, 2024

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

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BONUS CONTENT: On Climate With Governor Doug Burgum Feb 02, 2024

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.

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BONUS CONTENT: On Climate With Vivek Ramaswamy Feb 01, 2024

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.

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BONUS CONTENT: On Climate With Nikki Haley Surrogate (and New Hampshire Governor) Chris Sununu Jan 31, 2024

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.

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Episode 31 - The Conservative Conservationists: Charting a New Course on Climate in the GOP Jan 30, 2024

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.

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Episode 30 - Wilderness to Shark Tank: Heather’s Choice CEO Heather Kelly's Adventure in Sustainable Entrepreneurship Jan 18, 2024

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.

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Episode 29 - Cultivating Sustainability: Regenerative Farming with Will Harris of White Oak Pastures Jan 02, 2024

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

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Episode 28 - Year In Review: Looking Back (And Ahead) On ACC’s Amazing Success In 2023! Dec 21, 2023

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!

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Episode 27 - An American Conservation Roundup With ACC Government Affairs Director Morgan Brummund Nov 28, 2023

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.

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Episode 26 - Wilderness, Inc.: Capitalizing on Conservation for Profit or Planet? Nov 14, 2023

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.

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BONUS CONTENT: Miss America Advocates For Nuclear Energy On The Hill Nov 14, 2023

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!

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Episode 25 - Emerging Innovations: Using Advanced Compressed Air As An Energy Storage Vehicle Oct 31, 2023

Stephen Perkins talks with Scott Bolton of Hydrostor Energy about the company’s emerging ‘advanced compressed air’ energy storage systems and how this exciting new technology stands to shake up the way we develop America’s energy portfolio. It’s a tool in the toolkit for the energy transition revolution.

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Episode 24 - The Energy Transition Revolution: Bridging The Gap Between Talent, Government and Industry Oct 17, 2023

Stephen Perkins kicks off his tenure as interim host for the Coming Clean podcast with Federation of American Scientists CEO Dan Correa. Stephen and Dan tackle the transitions involved with the clean energy revolution. What does this transition look like from a talent standpoint? Are we going to be ‘putting coal miners out of business’? Where do science-led initiatives like those under the purview of the FAS fit into the American economic and environmental mode, and where do all these roads meet? Find out all that and more about the FAS here!

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Episode 23 - Dr. Kathryn Sorensen: The Queen Of Water In Arizona Oct 03, 2023

Kathryn Sorensen, professor for Arizona State University’s Morrison Institute for Public Policy, joins Benji to unravel water in the West, and Arizona specifically. From transportation to desalination to wastewater reclamation, Benji and Dr. Sorensen cover it all and present a vision for the future of the water issues of the American West.

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BONUS CONTENT: Big Announcement For Coming Clean! Oct 03, 2023

Benji is joined by ACC’s own Stephen Perkins for a surprise episode where the two discuss the podcast, where it’s come, and where it’s going in an exciting new direction!

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Episode 22 - Money Is Powerful: The Inflation Reduction Act And Government-Driven Economic Incentives For A Cleaner World Sep 19, 2023

Jesse Jenkins, Princeton University’s Assistant Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment joins Benji to talk about the recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. Benji challenges the ‘status quo’ of thinking in environmental circles, and presses to get answers for listeners. Together, they address and explain the law itself, highlight possible benefits, and address the concerns of critics across the aisle from conservatives to liberals - and discuss how smart economic policy can help incentivize a cleaner world for all of us.

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Episode 21 - Breathing Earth: How Rainforests Sustain Our Planet's Ecosystems Sep 05, 2023

Engineer, Physicist, Nat Geo Explorer, Businessman, and Founder/Executive Chairman of Rainforest Connections Topher White joins Coming Clean to talk about the lungs of the world’. Benji and Topher talk about the cabal that illegally harvests our forest resources, what Rainforest Connections and governments around the world are doing to stop it, and give Topher as an expert in the field a chance to pitch why ‘saving the rainforest’ is a true bipartisan goal and respond directly to critics of the policy.

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Episode 20 - Balancing Nature and Necessity: Responsible Uranium Mining by the Grand Canyon Aug 22, 2023

ACC Executive Chairman Benji Backer is joined by Curtis Moore, VP of Corporate Development at Energy Fuels from Colorado talk about the Biden administration’s recent National Monument in Arizona near the Grand Canyon, Baj Nawahvjo and how that decision impacts Energy Fuels, Inc’s pursuit of minimal-impact uranium mining that provides clean energy to meet environmental goals, and responds to criticisms of ‘profit over planet’ among others.

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Episode 18 - The Vogtle Vision: Unveiling America's Nuclear Renaissance Aug 08, 2023

ACC Executive Chairman Benji Backer is joined in this SPECIAL RELEASE episode by Georgia Public Service Commissioner Tim Echols from the great state of Georgia for some exciting news and a deep dive into the Plant Vogtle nuclear project that is slated to deliver power to half a million homes for 60 to 80 years. Commissioner Echols dives deep on why this project matters, answers some hard questions and presents the Vogtle Vision for keeping Georgia powered.

You can listen to the Commissioner’s podcast, Energy Matters With Commissioner Echols, on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/4vZTpB7QcIVaBfZ9A3X7qm

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Episode 19 - Questions ‘Big Oil’ Has Never Been Asked Directly, The History And Future of Energy, And More With API Aug 08, 2023

ACC Executive Chairman Benji Backer is joined by Mike Sommers of the American Petroleum Institute. This episode is all about oil, and Benji and our guest cover the rise and history of oil from the Industrial Revolution to modern day. They explore the tough questions that have never actually been asked directly of the oil industry, and the ensuing conversation is a heartfelt discussion about the future of energy in America.

Does oil want to ‘kill’ renewables? Does ‘big oil’ really hate the environment? These are things the political extreme would have you think. But Mike’s answers might surprise them!

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Blake Moore || Recorded LIVE from #ACCSummit 2023! Jul 25, 2023

Recorded LIVE from ACC’s recent Summit event Utah Republican Congressman Blake Moore. Congressman Moore (UT-01) is the first ever Utah Republican on the powerful Ways and Means Committee, serves on the House Budget Committee, and is an Assistant Whip on the House Republican Whip Team and is co-chair of the bipartisan Depot, Air Force and future caucuses. He and host Benji talk to the crowd at the ACC Summit about gridlock in Washington, what we’re doing right and what we need to build on for the future of environmentalism in the United States.

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Big Fire, Little Fire Jul 11, 2023

We're back!

As another round of megafires blazed, many Twitter activists demanded Congress throw more paper at the problem. Or they might as well have... We don't need more red tape, litigation and misguided measures. As our guest Brian Yablonski will explain, what we need is forest management, not another bevy of environmental prescriptions like the ones that have been piling up since the 70s. Benji and Brian cover quite a bit of ground in order to set the record straight on the mistakes that are making it harder to breath, with smoky air and a lot, lot, lot of CO2 emissions.

Brian is the CEO of the Property and Environment Research Center (PERC). Before moving to Montana Brian was a director of policy in Florida during the Jeb Bush years, where he helped craft key initiatives, including Everglades restoration and the Florida Forever conservation program. In 2009, the Florida Wildlife Federation named Brian “Florida’s Wildlife Conservationist of the Year” for his work advancing private land stewardship. And in 2016, he was presented Florida Audubon’s “Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Award,” their highest honor, for his work on coastal bird species conservation.

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The Good News Strategy May 30, 2023

Benji sits down with friend Zahra Biabani, author of Climate Optimism: Celebrating Systemic Change Around the World. They discuss the great advances that have been made to curb climate change versus the fear machine that keeps emitting pessimistic pollution.

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All The Energy Under The Sun May 16, 2023

Brian Gitt—energy entreprenuer, investor, writer—joins Benji this week to discuss the primary myths that are fueling a great deal of environmental activism with hot air; some of which are 180 degrees wrong and cause a great deal of damage. They also get into last week’s BlackRock interview and ESG as a whole, along with a brief discussion on the exciting world of small modular nuclear reactors.

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Impact Investing May 09, 2023

This week Benji sits in-person with Rich Kushel, Senior Managing Director and Head of the Portfolio Management Group at BlackRock. His company has become caught up in the heated partisan fight over Enviromental, Social and Governance investing. Rich explains that BlackRock operates the same way any other investment firm does, working to maximize returns for investors within the parameters they set. And when investor choices include parameters based on the client's values, the same rules apply. If you're unsure on what to make of the quarreling, and would like to skip passed the noise in Washington, give a listen!

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No Fun With Coal May 03, 2023

Ever since we were kids they told us what you get on Christmas when you're bad. Well, the states and countries that ignored all the warnings that solar, wind and all-electric technonlogies aren't ready yet won't have to wait until December to learn their lesson. Unfortunately everybody pays the price for their getting coal this year. But at least Lucy and Benji have some good news to go along with the bad this week. The Washington Post has had to acknowledge what even semi-serious climate activists have known for years, and we can easily point to the states which know what they're doing.

*You really ought to read Harry Stevens' article. It's truly informative reporting!

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A True Conservative is a Better Conservationist Apr 25, 2023

There's something special about environmentalists with engineering backgrounds. They have the same good intentions as the rest, plus the added bonus of ideas on real solutions. And if they go to Congress, then we're really getting somewhere!

Benji sits down with Arkansas Representative and Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman. Among other things, they delve into the Lower Energy Costs Act and the distinction between realistic conservation and idealistic preservation.

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E.V.-rything EVs Apr 18, 2023

For our tenth episode of Coming Clean, Benji dives deep into the world of electric vehicles. First he chats with Kristen Siemen, Chief Sustainability Officer for General Motors, whose company is making a major transition to EVs in the years to come. Next he talks with Brent Bennett of Life:Powered, a project of the Texas Public Policy Foundation. He and Benji work through the limitations of our current technologies and what this means for the ambitious goals to rapidly move to an all-electric future.

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Texas & Tesla Disappoint Apr 12, 2023

We've got big news! Yes, yes, it's mostly of the... bad variety. But if you're gonna get hot takes on bad news regarding the fight against Climate Change, why not get them from optimists like Benji and Coming Clean's top correspondent Lucy Biggers? They weigh into a Texas bill which will curb its booming renewable energy sector, along with Tesla's deal to build their 'megapak' batteries in China.

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No Wasted Steps with Kathryn Kellogg Apr 04, 2023

Most of the big changes that happen in life come down to the minor tweaks we make in our behavior. This is no less true in the effort to clean up our environment. Today Benji sits down with Kathryn Kellogg, founder of Going Zero Waste. Starting small and working her way up, she goes through the actions that anybody can make for more sustainable living.

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Eyes and Ears of the Mountain Mar 28, 2023

It's a strange thing that America is simulatenously a "go-go-go!" society and yet simultaneously a sedentary one. Maybe you aren't ready to follow in the footsteps of today's guest Conrad Ankler by attempting a Mt. Everest ascent, you'd be wise to tune in to his chat with Benji—perhaps during a stroll through nature!

They discuss the need for time unplugged from the world of glass, cement and steel; along with how "social" media has started a virtual avalanche that's regressing the forward movement made over the last decade.

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Reclaiming Wasted Time, Money and Energy Mar 21, 2023

For Coming Clean’s first in-person interview, Benji literally sits down (at an actual table!) with Congresswomen Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington’s Fifth District. Representative Rodgers is proud to be cutting the red tape that holds back America’s energy innovators from creating the reliable, affordable energy sources that will keep the country prosperous and clean. She gets into HR 1... Source

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Miss America Goes Nuclear Mar 14, 2023

Many would roll their eyes if told that Miss America is going to share her opinions on energy production. But most Miss Americas aren’t nuclear engineers. Newly-crowned Grace Stanke joins Coming Clean to talk high hopes for a nuclear future. Grace knows that nuclear energy is essential to realizing carbon-free sources of reliable energy; she’s also aware of the failure of our education system to... Source

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Sustainable Grub Mar 07, 2023

Forget the bugs! We’re not short on delicious sources of protein, says chef Andrew Gruel. A great deal of it is underwater and the biggest obstacle comes from the officials who over-regulate and regulate poorly. In this installment of Coming Clean, Benji and Andrew dive into seafood’s sustainability, misconceptions about fish farms, conspicuous waste and the exceptional quality of the foods that... Source

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A Scientist Says Feb 28, 2023

MIT’s Kerry Emanuel knows his stuff. He began studying the climate since before the term Global Warming entered the lexicon. Since then he’s watched irrational ideology capture the minds of believers and skeptics alike, along with the exponential heating up of debates over the climate. On the third installment of Coming Clean, Kerry and Benji discuss the risks of inaction... Source

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Going Gold for Green Feb 21, 2023

Even the best of the best come from humble beginnings. While Jessie Diggins is an Olympic gold medal-winning cross-country skier, she was no different than any other young person when she first became concerned about climate change. Today on Coming Clean, she and Benji discuss why being a novice shouldn’t discourage you from getting involved to tackle big obstacles. And before the interview... Source

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Don't Duck on Our Environment Feb 14, 2023

For the premiere of Coming Clean, Benji chats with Al Robertson of the Duck Commander clan. We dive into Al’s lifelong passion for hunting and fishing along with his devotion to wildlife conservation. Despite contrasts between his way of life in Louisiana and environmentalists of the big city, he sees a big beautiful world that we all have an interest in preserving. Source

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The Coming Clean Podcast Feb 13, 2023

The Ricochet Audio Network is pleased to announce the premiere of our latest podcast, Coming Clean. Host Benji Backer sits down with a wide array of guests concerned with the environmental challenges before us. He hopes to get people working together, regardless of their political persuasion, toward a common sense approach to climate change that protects our environment and our prosperity. Source

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