In this continuation of her conversation with award-winning climate journalist Amy Westervelt, Dr. Anikó breaks down one of the most misunderstood questions of our time: Is climate change actually human-caused and why is there still so much confusion about the answer?

Together, they unpack the science behind climate change in plain language, explain how greenhouse gases amplify natural climate patterns, and reveal how fossil fuel companies and media systems have intentionally distorted public understanding for decades.

This episode goes beyond headlines. Amy shares real-world reporting from wildfires, hurricanes, air-pollution health crises, and global climate displacement to show how climate change isn’t abstract it’s already reshaping lives, health outcomes, and entire communities.

They also explore how misinformation spreads, how journalism differs from opinion, and what listeners can look for to identify trustworthy sources in an era of outrage-driven media.

Episode Highlights:

02:10 – Is climate change human-caused and how natural patterns and human activity coexist

04:20 – How greenhouse gases amplify droughts, floods, heat, and extreme weather

07:15 – Air pollution, particulate matter, and the real health impacts of climate change

10:45 – The hidden benefits of climate action and why walkable cities trigger backlash

14:30 – Why wildfires behave differently now and what climate change has altered

18:20 – Climate change as a force multiplier alongside development and infrastructure

22:40 – Hurricanes, power outages, and how climate disasters compound over time

26:30 – Climate migration and what happens when places become uninhabitable

30:10 – Ocean currents, food systems, and risks to global agriculture

33:50 – Why scientists overwhelmingly agree on climate change

41:10 – How climate change became framed as a political issue

45:00 – The difference between journalism, opinion pieces, and propaganda

49:30 – How to recognize misinformation and bad sources

58:40 – Why hopelessness benefits powerful industries

1:02:30 – What individuals can realistically do about climate change

If you want this tightened further (fewer timestamps, or adjusted to exact edit points), I recommend trimming to ~10 chapters for Apple Podcasts — happy to do that next.

This conversation is honest, grounded, and deeply human. It offers clarity without fear-mongering and empowers listeners to engage with climate information thoughtfully, critically, and with agency.

Learn more about Amy Westervelt:

Website: https://www.amywestervelt.com/

Podcast: https://drilled.media/podcasts/drilled

Award-winning climate journalist, author, and host of Drilled and Hot Take

Connect with Dr. Anikó:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.aniko/

Website: https://www.draniko.com/

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Disclaimer:
The content of this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views expressed are those of the host and guests and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast.