A Climate Change with Matt Matern

Matt speaks with Harvard historian of science Naomi Oreskes about the long-standing scientific consensus on climate change and the political forces undermining it. Oreskes explains how Congress understood climate risks as early as the 1960s, why the EPA’s endangerment finding remains crucial, and how powerful interests have attacked science as climate change shifted from prediction to observable reality. The conversation highlights threats to academic freedom and the growing political pressure on universities.

Episode Resources

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Guest Bio:

Naomi Oreskes is a world-renowned historian of science, author, and Harvard University professor whose work has shaped global understanding of climate change and climate denial. With groundbreaking research on how scientific consensus forms—and how powerful interests attempt to undermine it—Oreskes has become one of the most influential voices defending science in the public sphere.

She is the author of several acclaimed books, including Merchants of Doubt and The Big Myth, and her writing has appeared in major scientific journals and international publications. Oreskes frequently testifies before lawmakers, contributes to climate policy debates, and speaks worldwide about the urgent need to protect both the planet and the integrity of science itself.

In this week’s episode of  A Climate Change, host Matt Mattern welcomes comedian and writer Bill Kessler for a spirited, no-filter take on the intersection of climate politics, policy, and everyday life. Blending wit with insight, they dissect the week’s environmental headlines, from viral AI spectacles to the deeper economic and moral choices shaping our planet’s future.

Matt and Bill unpack the $700 million clean energy project cancellations, exploring what that means for America’s battery manufacturing, job creation, and energy independence. They examine the lawsuits around Cancer Alley, where weakened EPA air pollution standards are hitting vulnerable communities hardest, and talk about the human cost behind those policy shifts.

From public transport funding shortfalls to the environmental price of ultra-processed foods, the conversation connects personal choices with systemic change and lands on practical optimism. Bill’s closing thought? Go buy a two-year-old electric vehicle; it’s smart economics and smart for the planet.

It’s a grounded, funny, and thought-provoking exchange that reminds us that humour and hope still belong in the climate conversation.

Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.

Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.

Watch the full conversation:  https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1

Bill Kessler Bio

Bill Kessler is a seasoned comedian, writer, and producer known for his sharp observational humour and cultural commentary. His television credits include Hollywood Squares and Funny You Should Ask, where his quick wit and smart satire earned him recognition for blending comedy with social insight. With a career spanning stand-up, television, and content development, Kessler’s work reflects a distinctive ability to dissect everyday absurdities with intelligence and humour, making him a respected voice in contemporary American comedy.

Episode Resources

More About A Climate Change with Matt Matern

A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.

The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.

More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.

The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.

Curated List of Episodes

If you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:

Fact: According to an IRENA report on Reuters from mid-July, over 90% of new renewable projects are now cheaper than fossil fuel alternatives. Solar is 41% cheaper, and onshore wind is 53% cheaper than fossil fuel energy. The consumers are speaking up, and market dynamics are pushing the growth of renewables. In this episode of A Climate Change, host Matt Mattern speaks with Dr. Gernot Wagner, climate economist at Columbia Business School, and author of Climate Shock, to unpack how economics and policy are reshaping the global energy transition. 

They discuss why renewables like wind and solar are now cheaper than fossil fuels despite political headwinds, how carbon pricing systems, from California to Uruguay, drive emissions cuts, and why electrifying buildings offers the fastest decarbonisation gains. 

Dr. Wagner also explores the promise of green hydrogen for industry, the rise of small modular nuclear reactors, and the strategic need for domestic solar manufacturing. This insightful conversation reveals how market forces and smart policy design can accelerate the shift to cleaner, more affordable, and resilient energy systems.

Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.

Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.

Watch the full conversation: https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1

Dr. Gernot Wagner Bio

Dr. Gernot Wagner is a climate economist at Columbia Business School and faculty director of the Climate Knowledge Initiative. He is the author of several influential books, including Climate Shock and Geoengineering: The Gamble. A leading voice in climate policy and clean energy economics, Dr. Wagner frequently contributes to The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Project Syndicate, offering practical, data-driven insights on how markets and policy can accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

Episode Resources

More About A Climate Change with Matt Matern

A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.

The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.

More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.

The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.

Curated List of Episodes

If you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:

Every single person, regardless of vocation, can be a climate activist. Just ask Andrew Zimmern - world renowned chef, James Beard awardee and Emmy-winning TV personality, who's now leading the fight for ocean health. He joins us on the latest episode of A Climate Change with powerful insights from his PBS series "Hope in the Water," revealing why artisanal fishing communities are crucial for our planet's future, and sharing eye-opening perspectives on wild versus farm-raised fish from his new book "The Blue Food Cookbook." While it’s not surprising that a chef has a guidebook on sustainable food choices and farming practices, some of his counterintuitive insights are sure to surprise you. 

Tune in to learn why aquaculture could be key to feeding the planet sustainably and how asking the right questions about your seafood's origins can make a real difference.

And visit andrewzimmern.com to get your copy of Andrew’s new book, The Blue Food Cookbook.

Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.

Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.

Watch the full conversation:  https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1

Andrew Zimmern Bio:

Andrew Zimmern is a James Beard award-winning chef, Emmy award-winning TV personality, and environmental advocate with 50 years of experience in the restaurant industry. Known for hosting the hit show "Bizarre Foods," he is also an accomplished author of five books, including the most recent, "The Blue Food Cookbook," and the founder of production company Intuitive Content. His latest project, the Emmy-nominated PBS series "Hope in the Water," showcases sustainable solutions for ocean conservation and responsible seafood production across five continents. With deep expertise in both culinary arts and environmental activism, Zimmern champions sustainable aquaculture and artisanal fishing communities while advocating for practical solutions to marine conservation. His work bridges the gap between culinary excellence and environmental stewardship, making him a leading voice in sustainable seafood practices and ocean preservation.

Episode Resources

More About A Climate Change with Matt Matern

A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.

The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.

More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.

The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.

Curated List of Episodes

If you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:

Fact: According to a December 2024 report by WRI, 75% of greenhouse gases and 90% of CO2 emissions are linked to extracting and burning fossil fuels. While sustainability measures like emission control and renewables focus on the demand side of the equation, the real high-impact change lies in measures to control the supply side. This week, Matt sits down with Tzeporah Berman, Chair of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative and one of Time magazine’s Top 100 Climate Impact leaders. Together, they explore a groundbreaking global movement to phase out fossil fuel production through international cooperation and equitable transition strategies.

Berman reveals how 17 countries, 3,000+ organisations, and 101 Nobel laureates have joined the call for a treaty to manage the fair and just wind-down of oil, gas, and coal. She explains why focusing solely on emissions isn’t enough, and how supply-side policies could finally turn the tide on climate change.

This conversation offers a bold, practical roadmap for ending fossil fuel dependence while empowering nations to embrace renewable energy and energy security.

Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.

Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.

Watch the full conversation: https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1

Tzeporah Berman Bio:

Tzeporah Berman is an internationally recognised climate and energy strategist with decades of experience leading global campaigns for sustainability and climate justice. As Chair of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative and International Program Director at Stand.earth, she spearheads international cooperation to phase out fossil fuel production and drive a just transition to renewable energy. Named to Time magazine’s Top 100 Climate Impact list and recipient of the 2019 Climate Breakthrough Award, Berman is a pioneering voice in climate policy. An accomplished author and advocate, her leadership continues to shape global efforts toward sustainable development and fossil fuel accountability.

Episode Resources

Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative Website

Matt Matern on LinkedIn

A Climate Change on Apple

More About A Climate Change with Matt Matern

A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.

The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.

More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.

The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.

Curated List of Episodes

If you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:

Two birds, one stone is always a good approach, isn't it? Especially when it comes to climate action. So, what if cities could tackle climate change while building more equitable communities? Dr. Sheila R Foster, Professor at Columbia University and an expert in environmental justice, explores innovative urban governance models that combine climate action with social equity. Dr. Foster shares insights from her groundbreaking work with LabGov, revealing how cities can partner with communities to create sustainable solutions - from community solar projects to land trusts. 

This conversation offers practical strategies for building climate-resilient communities from the ground up, offering hope for concrete jungle cities to become sustainable centres of community. 

Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.

Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.

Watch the full conversation: https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1

Dr. Sheila R Foster Bio:

Dr. Sheila R Foster is a Professor at Columbia University's Climate School and Law School, specializing in environmental and climate justice, land use, local government, and collaborative governance regimes. As co-director of LabGov, she leads groundbreaking research on co-governance models that enable communities, governments, and private sectors to work together on environmental and urban development challenges. Her extensive work includes advising global and local initiatives on urban resilience, sustainability, and equity, while co-authoring "Co-Cities: Innovative Transitions Toward Just and Self-Sustaining Communities." 

As a member of the New York City Panel on Climate Change and through her work with various urban initiatives, she has demonstrated how collaborative governance models can create sustainable, equitable solutions for communities facing environmental and climate challenges.

Episode Resources

In this bonus episode, Matt is joined by comedian and writer Bill Kessler, to take a lighter look at President Trump’s infamous UN speech from last week. They dive into Trump’s climate denial on the world stage, his bizarre tangents about wind energy, and the sheer comedy gold of his word salads. This episode is meant to be more fun and less heavy than usual - we hope you enjoy the laughs while still catching the serious undertones. Let us know what you think, and if you’d like to see more episodes like this in the future.

If you want to help us reach our goal of planting 30k trees AND get a free tree planted in your name, visit www.aclimatechange.com/trees to learn how.

More About A Climate Change with Matt Matern

A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.

The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.

More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.

The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.

Curated List of Episodes

If you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you:

While corporate companies chase returns and profits, there are those few who chase sustainability, and even fewer who get it right. In this episode, we sit down with Alexia Kelly, Managing Director of the High Tide Foundation and former Netflix sustainability executive, to explore the complex world of greenhouse gas accounting and carbon credits. Backed by her extensive and high-stakes experience in key sustainability events and milestones, her insights offer an understanding of how leading companies are investing in nature-based solutions, why standardized carbon market rules are crucial for scaling climate action, and how corporate sustainability initiatives can drive real-world impact. 

This conversation takes us into the future of climate finance and environmental impact measurement.

Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more.

Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.

Watch the full conversation:  https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1

Alexia Kelly Bio:

Alexia Kelly is the Managing Director of the High Tide Foundation and a distinguished expert in carbon markets, climate finance, and policy solutions. With over twenty years of experience in climate action, she has held pivotal roles, including Director of Net Zero Plus Nature at Netflix and key positions at the US State Department, where she helped negotiate the Paris Agreement in 2015. Her extensive background spans from pioneering carbon market methodologies at the Climate Trust to implementing international climate programs and shaping global emissions trading rules.

Kelly's expertise in greenhouse gas accounting and carbon market development has been instrumental in establishing standards for climate action measurement and verification. Through her leadership at the High Tide Foundation's Carbon Policy and Markets Initiative, she works to bridge the gap between technical carbon accounting requirements and real-world implementation challenges faced by companies pursuing climate goals. Her work has contributed significantly to advancing global climate action, particularly in developing standardized approaches to carbon markets and methane mitigation strategies.

Episode Resources

• Joel Makower on LinkedIn
  

• 165: Decarbonizing the Grid with Rob Gramlich

• Olga Loginova on LinkedIn
  

• Simulating the Future: How Climate Models Shape Policy Decisions with Andrew Jones [Link]

• 165: Decarbonizing the Grid with Rob Gramlich