To all my readers, both those who’ve been with me for a while and those who are just finding their way here: welcome! This is the beginning of something new and deeply important—a series dedicated to exploring how we can transform our relationship with the Earth and each other. I envision One Cause as more than just a Substack series which will evolve into a book. I see it as a movement, an invitation to rethink the stories we live by, and a call to action for everyone who dreams of a thriving, regenerative world.

This series will be your introduction to the themes, stories, and strategies at the heart of One Cause. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or young reader, there’s something here for you. Together, we’ll explore not just what’s wrong with the way things are but what’s possible when we begin to write a new narrative—one rooted in connection, collaboration, and care.

To the parents, grandparents, teachers, and mentors reading this: THANK YOU! Your presence in the lives of young people makes such a difference. This series is about tackling the challenges of our planet; but more than that, it’s about creating a movement of empowerment, one where young people are supported to step into their roles as leaders of a regenerative future. You are their guides, their sounding boards, and often their biggest champions.

This book is for them—but it’s also for you.

For decades, we’ve told ourselves stories about our place in the world, and many of those stories no longer serve us. We’ve separated ourselves from nature, believing we are above it rather than a part of it. We’ve bought into the idea that more is always better, that the Earth’s resources are limitless, and that technology will save us from our own mistakes. These stories have shaped the systems and cultures that now threaten our planet.

But stories can change. And when they do, they have the power to reshape our world. And I say it’s time to make that change. Game on!

As a parent or mentor, you’re in a unique position to help rewrite those stories. Your role isn’t to lecture or enforce—it’s to model, to collaborate, and to create opportunities for young people to discover their power. Sometimes that looks like planting a tree together. Sometimes it’s sharing your own challenges and failures to show that learning is a lifelong process. Sometimes it’s just listening.

David Yeager, PhD, whose work in 10 to 25 inspired much of the approach in this series, talks about “wise feedback”—a balance of high expectations and strong support. It’s about believing in someone’s ability to grow and backing that belief with guidance and encouragement. That “growth mindset” is so important, especially now. That’s what we’re inviting you to bring to this journey.

This series will offer you ideas, stories, and tools to spark conversations with the young people in your life. It’s designed to inspire action, not just understanding. Because the truth is, we can’t wait for the next generation to grow up to start making a difference. They’re ready now. And with your support, they can lead the way.

Your Time to Rise

To the young readers: you are the reason this series was written. The future of our planet depends on bold, creative, and compassionate thinkers like you. I know, no pressure, right? But really, we’re in this together for as the saying goes, “there is no plan(et) B.”

Want a simple action that will nudge us forward? Share this post forward. Movements are more fun with friends.

The world is facing some big challenges right now. You probably know that already. But here’s something you might not hear enough: you have the power to make a difference. You don’t have to wait until you’re older, richer, or more experienced. The change starts with you, right here, right now.

This series will guide you through some of the stories we’ve all been told—stories that keep us disconnected from nature, from each other, and even from ourselves. These stories aren’t your fault, but they’re your challenge to overcome. One of the first steps is to identify these disempowering untrue stories. This isn’t always easy because they’ve become the water we all swim in. But here’s the good news—the story of humanity isn’t finished yet. And the next chapter? That’s up to you…well, really all of us.

You’re not alone in this. Throughout this series, you’ll meet the Eco-Guardian Team, a group of young heroes like you who are stepping up to protect the planet. Led by Zak Bates, Tess Barkley, and Iya, they’re learning to challenge the harmful narratives they’ve inherited and create new ones rooted in connection, collaboration, and courage. You’ll hear their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs. And along the way, you’ll find your own place in this journey.

You’ll also meet the Greens family, an ordinary household grappling with what it means to live sustainably in a world that often pushes against it. Sarah and Daniel, the parents, are navigating how to model eco-conscious values while managing everyday challenges. Their children, Emma (10) and Caleb (16), represent the perspectives of younger generations trying to reconcile personal passions with the reality of climate change. And then there are the grandparents, Nancy and Robert, whose reflections on past choices and shifting cultural norms bring invaluable wisdom to the mix.

Where the Eco-Guardian Team focuses on action and leadership, the Greens show how these principles play out in everyday life. Together, they highlight that change isn’t limited to one kind of person or one kind of action. Whether you’re taking big, bold steps to lead or making smaller, meaningful changes in your home and community, it all matters.

We’ll also share small, simple actions you can take to start making a difference today. Change doesn’t happen all at once. It’s a series of choices, each one building on the last. And every choice you make to care for the Earth, to challenge an outdated story, to inspire someone else—it all matters.

The future needs you. Not a perfect version of you, but the real you, with your ideas, your energy, and your passion. This is your time to rise, to lead, and to rewrite the story. Are you ready?

Game on!

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