So Climatic

Cassandra Thiel

Candid conversations about having children in a warming world. Join us as we explore the personal, ethical, and societal complexities of this decision. Guests share their journeys & perspectives, sparking thought-provoking discussions. Subscribe now! #SoClimatic #Parenthood #ClimateChange

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    Episode 9: Jade: Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question

    In this episode of So Climatic, Cassandra speaks with Dr. Jade Sasser, an associate professor at UC Riverside and author of "Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question," about the complex emotions and considerations surrounding having children in the era of climate change. Dr. Sasser shares her research on how climate anxiety is shaping the reproductive decisions of younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z. They discuss the importance of community support, the challenges of navigating climate emotions, and the need for a justice-centered approach to addressing the climate crisis. Guest Bios: Dr. Jade Sasser is an associate professor at UC Riverside and author of "Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question" and "On Infertile Ground: Population Control and Women's Rights in the Era of Climate Change." She brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the conversation about climate anxiety, parenthood, and the complexities of navigating these issues in a changing world. Key Takeaways: Generational Differences: Dr. Sasser highlights the generational differences in how people experience and respond to climate change, emphasizing the unique anxieties faced by younger generations.  Climate Anxiety and Parenthood: The conversation explores the complex emotions surrounding the decision to have children in the context of climate change, including anxiety, grief, and the desire for a better future.  The Importance of Community: Dr. Sasser emphasizes the crucial role of community support in navigating climate anxiety and raising children in a changing world.  Beyond Overpopulation: She challenges traditional narratives around overpopulation, highlighting the importance of considering social inequality and the outsized impact of powerful institutions.  Climate Justice: The episode underscores the need for a justice-centered approach to addressing climate change, recognizing the disproportionate impacts on marginalized communities.  Finding Resources and Support: Dr. Sasser shares valuable resources for parents and individuals struggling with climate anxiety, including books, organizations, and climate-aware therapy. Relevant Links: Book: "Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question" by Jade Sasser  Book: "On Infertile Ground: Population Control and Women's Rights in the Era of Climate Change" by Jade Sasser  Book: "Parenting in a Changing Climate" by Elizabeth Bechard  Organization: Climate Mental Health Network  Resource: Climate Emotions Wheel (from the Climate Mental Health Network)  Documentary: "The Climate Baby Dilemma"  Book: "Gen Dread" by Britt Wray  Organization: Moms Clean Air Force  Book: "Lessons for Survival" by Emily Raboteau  Book: "The Quickening" by Elizabeth Rush  Book:  "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer  Book: "The Last Fire Season" by Manjula Martin

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    Episode 8: Noe: From the Forest to the OR: Grounding Ourselves on a Shifting Planet

    In this episode, host Cassandra Thiel interviews OB-GYN Dr. Noe Woods, discussing her journey into medicine, her passion for planetary health, and the challenges of balancing a demanding career with motherhood. Dr. Woods shares her experiences of advocating for sustainability in healthcare and emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility and systemic change in addressing climate change. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas surrounding reproductive healthcare and the need for greater awareness and action in the face of the climate crisis. Guest Bios: Dr. Noe Woods is an OB-GYN at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. She's a passionate advocate for sustainability in healthcare and has been instrumental in driving initiatives to reduce environmental impact within her hospital system. Dr. Woods is also a dedicated mother who openly discusses the challenges and joys of raising children while balancing a demanding career.  Key Takeaways: The importance of connecting with nature: Dr. Woods emphasizes the profound impact that nature has had on her life, from sparking her interest in medicine to providing solace and grounding during difficult times.    Balancing parenthood with a demanding career: Dr. Woods shares her personal experiences of balancing motherhood with her work as an OB-GYN, highlighting the importance of prioritizing family and finding ways to integrate her passion for sustainability into her practice.    The challenges and rewards of working in healthcare: Dr. Woods discusses the challenges faced by healthcare providers, particularly in the context of restrictive regulations and the emotional toll of dealing with difficult situations. She also emphasizes the deep satisfaction and joy that comes from helping women feel empowered and in control of their health.    The importance of systemic change in healthcare: Dr. Woods highlights the need for systemic change in healthcare to address the environmental impact of medical practices. She advocates for learning from other healthcare systems that prioritize sustainability and efficiency without compromising patient care.    The power of community and collaboration: Dr. Woods emphasizes the importance of working together to create change, both within healthcare institutions and in the broader community. She shares her experiences of collaborating with colleagues and advocating for sustainable practices.    Finding joy and hope in the midst of challenges: Dr. Woods shares her personal reflections on finding joy and hope in her children and in her passion for rock climbing, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and connected to what brings meaning and purpose to life. Relevant Links: Resources: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): A professional organization for obstetrician-gynecologists that provides guidelines and recommendations on women's health issues.    Organization: The Heinz Foundation: A philanthropic organization that supports various causes, including environmental conservation and sustainability.    Organization: The Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education (GCCHE): A collaborative initiative focused on integrating climate change and health education into medical curricula.    Movie: The Climate Baby Dilemma: A Canadian documentary film that explores the complex emotions and considerations surrounding having children in the context of climate change.    Organization: Aravind Eye Care System: A non-profit eye care system in India known for its high-quality, low-cost services and sustainable practices.

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    Episode 7: Hannah: A Global Citizen's Perspective on Climate and Kids

    In this episode of So Climatic, Cassandra talks with Hannah Greene, a recent graduate with extensive international experience, about her views on climate change and the decision to have children. Hannah shares her experiences living and working in various countries, including Malaysia, the UAE, and Ivory Coast, and how these experiences have shaped her understanding of consumption, privilege, and the complexities of climate action. They discuss the challenges of overconsumption in the US, the importance of cultural sensitivity in global health initiatives, and the need for a more equitable and sustainable approach to resource management. Guest Bios: Hannah Greene is a recent graduate with a background in social research and public policy. She has lived and worked in various countries, giving her a unique global perspective on climate change and the decision to have children. Key Takeaways: The Responsibility of Privilege: Hannah emphasizes the responsibility that comes with being an American, acknowledging the disproportionate impact of US consumption on the global environment.  The Value of International Experience: She shares how living in different countries has broadened her understanding of consumption patterns, resource management, and the challenges faced by communities around the world.  Rethinking Consumption: The conversation highlights the need to re-evaluate consumption habits and move towards a more circular economy that values resource conservation and reuse.  The Complexity of Climate Action: They discuss the complexities of addressing climate change, including the need for systemic change, cultural sensitivity, and individual responsibility.  The Ethics of Population Control: Hannah shares her experience working on a reproductive health project in South Africa and raises ethical concerns about interventions that aim to control populations.  Empowering Women: She emphasizes the importance of empowering women through education and access to healthcare, recognizing that this is crucial for addressing both social justice and environmental sustainability. Relevant Links: Organization: Vegetarian Resource Group  Book: "Factfulness" by Hans Rosling

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    Episode 6: Cristina: Flourishing or Failing? An Ethical Look at Bringing Children into the World

    In this episode of So Climatic, Cassandra talks with Cristina Richie, an ethicist and professor at the University of Edinburgh, about the ethical considerations surrounding having children in the era of climate change. Professor Richie shares her perspective on overpopulation, the carbon footprint of individuals in different countries, and the potential impacts of climate change on future generations. They also discuss the feminist implications of reproduction and the importance of individual action in creating a more just and sustainable world. Guest Bios: Professor Cristina Richie is an ethicist at the University of Edinburgh with expertise in feminist ethics, environmental ethics, and biomedical ethics. She brings a unique and challenging perspective to the conversation, advocating for an ethical framework when considering having children in the context of climate change and social justice. Key Takeaways: Overpopulation vs. Overcarbonation: Professor Richie differentiates between overpopulation and overcarbonation, emphasizing the disproportionate carbon footprint of individuals in developed countries.  Ethical Considerations: The conversation explores the ethical implications of having children in a world facing climate change, social injustice, and potential future instability.  The Carbon Footprint of Children: Professor Richie highlights the significant environmental impact of raising a child in a high-carbon country like the United States.  Alternative Paths to Parenthood: She discusses alternative ways to experience parenthood, such as mentoring, adoption, or co-parenting.  Feminist Perspectives: Professor Richie addresses the feminist concerns surrounding reproduction, including the physical burdens, societal pressures, and risks faced by women.  Individual Action and Responsibility: The episode emphasizes the importance of individual action in addressing climate change and creating a more just world, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Relevant Links: Book: "Too Many People" by Lindsey Grant  Book: "Principles of Green Bioethics" by Cristina Richie  Book: "Environmental Ethics and Medical Reproduction" by Cristina Richie  Article: 2009 article from Oregon State University about the carbon footprint of children in different countries (you may need to search for this using keywords like "carbon footprint child US China")  Book: "Reproductive Rights and Wrongs" by Betsy Hartman

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    Episode 5: Shanda: From Birth Striker to Baby Steps: A Sustainability Journey

    In this episode of So Climatic, Cassandra speaks with Shanda, a sustainability expert, about her evolving views on having children in the era of climate change. Shanda shares her journey from being a self-proclaimed "birth striker" to considering parenthood, reflecting on the societal and personal factors that have influenced her changing perspective. They discuss the importance of community, the challenges of climate anxiety, and the need for resilience in raising the next generation. Guest Bios: Shanda Demorest, Sustainability Solutions Director at Practice Greenhealth, is a millennial with a passion for environmental sustainability and healthcare. She brings a unique perspective to the conversation, having grappled with the decision of whether or not to have children in the context of climate change. Key Takeaways: An evolving perspective on parenthood: Shanda shares her personal journey from being a birth striker to considering parenthood, highlighting the influence of societal factors and personal growth. Beyond the carbon footprint: The conversation expands beyond individual environmental impact to encompass broader societal implications, including economic inequality and the potential for future conflict. The importance of community: Shanda and Cassie discuss the crucial role of community in navigating climate challenges and raising resilient children. Communicating about difficult realities: They touch on the need to develop skills in discussing challenging topics like death and environmental loss, drawing parallels between personal and planetary grief. Finding meaning and purpose: Shanda shares her hopes for raising a child who is equipped with essential life skills and a deep connection to nature. Relevant Links:  Book: "This is Your Brain on Birth Control" by Sarah Hill Book: "The Changing World Order" by Ray Dalio Book: "The Myth of Normal" by Gabor Maté Book: "Being Mortal" by Atul Gawande Article: New York Times article about the open-air pyre in Crestone, Colorado (search for "Crestone Colorado cremation" on the NYT website) Movement: Gen Dread movement (you can link to a relevant website or article explaining the concept)

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    Episode 4: Emi: Beyond Diapers and Doom: Reframing Parenthood in a Changing World

    Cassandra Thiel talks with author and new mom Emi Nietfeld about the anxieties and hopes of raising children in the age of climate change. They discuss the challenges of balancing personal choices with systemic issues, the importance of community, and the power of reframing the narrative around climate change from one of despair to one of opportunity. Guest Bios: Emi Nietfeld is the author of the memoir "Acceptance," which chronicles her journey of overcoming a turbulent childhood to find success and stability. As a freelance journalist, she writes about mental health, inequality, and social justice. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Slate. Emi is also a new mom! Key Takeaways: Climate change is a significant source of anxiety for many parents, raising complex ethical questions about bringing children into an uncertain future: Cassandra and Emi discuss their own anxieties and grapple with the moral implications of having children in this era.  Individual actions, while important, are insufficient to address the climate crisis; systemic change is necessary: Emi highlights the limitations of individual actions like composting and being vegan, emphasizing the need for broader policy changes and cultural shifts that Cassandra echoes.  Economic inequality exacerbates both climate change and mental health challenges, highlighting the interconnectedness of these issues: Emi, drawing from her research for an upcoming article, explains the link between economic inequality and mental health, while Cassandra connects this to environmental injustice and the unequal impacts of climate change.  Finding hope and resilience is crucial for navigating parenthood and creating a better future for our children: Both Cassandra and Emi share how becoming mothers has anchored them to the future and fueled their desire to create positive change. They discuss strategies for building resilience in themselves and their children.  Reframing the climate change narrative from one of despair to one of opportunity can empower individuals and communities to take action: Cassandra discusses the importance of seeing the climate crisis as a chance to rebuild systems and create a more equitable and sustainable world. Relevant Links: Website: Emi Nietfeld's Website Book: Emi Nietfeld's Book "Acceptance" Book: "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer  Book: Lightning Flowers by Katherine Standefer Resource: Project Drawdown: [https://www.drawdown.org/]

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    Episode 3: Dick (aka Dad): The Underdog's Advocate

    In this episode of "So Climatic," Cassandra talks with her father, Dick Thiel, a retired wildlife biologist, about his lifelong passion for nature and his perspective on the changing environment. Dick shares his experiences growing up in the 1950s and 1960s, witnessing the rise of environmental awareness and the impact of pollution and habitat destruction. He discusses his fascination with wolves and his dedication to their conservation, highlighting the importance of individual action and community engagement in creating positive change. The conversation also explores the challenges of balancing ecological concerns with the decision to have children and the importance of maintaining hope and curiosity in the face of an uncertain future. Guest Bio: Dick Thiel is a retired wildlife biologist from the WI DNR with a deep passion for nature and a wealth of knowledge about the environment and conservation. He’s also my dad. Key Takeaways: The importance of curiosity: Dick emphasizes the role of curiosity in driving his lifelong passion for wildlife and his dedication to understanding the natural world.   The evolution of environmental awareness: He shares his experiences of witnessing the rise of environmentalism and the impact of pollution and habitat destruction on wildlife populations.   The challenges of balancing ecological concerns with parenthood: Dick discusses his personal decision to have children in light of environmental concerns, highlighting the importance of responsible family planning and individual contributions to conservation.   The impact of human actions on wildlife: He shares his observations of the devastating effects of DDT on bird populations and the importance of advocating for change through community engagement and political action.   The interconnectedness of social and environmental issues: The conversation explores the link between social and environmental challenges, emphasizing the importance of addressing inequality and promoting sustainability to create a more just and resilient society.   The power of hope and individual action: Dick encourages listeners to maintain hope and take action to make a difference in the face of environmental challenges, highlighting the importance of individual contributions and collective efforts in creating a better future.   Relevant Links: Book: A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold.   Book: Silent Spring by Rachel Carson.   Book: The Population Bomb by Paul R. Ehrlich.   YouTube Video: Last man living in an iron lung.   Book: Banning DDT: How Citizen Activists in Wisconsin Led the Way by Bill Berry.   Organization: International Crane Foundation.  Organization: Mid-Continental Railroad Museum.

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    Episode 2: Emily: From Apple Farms to Corporate Carbon Plans: A Sustainability Journey

    In this episode of So Climatic, Cassandra speaks with Emily Wafler, a sustainability consultant, about her perspective on climate change and the decision to have children. Emily shares her journey from studying environmental science to working with corporations on their carbon reduction plans. They discuss the importance of balancing individual action with systemic change, the challenges of navigating overwhelming information, and the role of realistic optimism in creating a sustainable future. Guest Bios: Emily Wafler is a sustainability consultant with a background in environmental science and engineering. She works with corporations to develop and implement carbon reduction plans and brings a realistic and optimistic perspective to the conversation about climate change and parenthood. Key Takeaways: The Importance of Place: Emily emphasizes the role of location in deciding where to raise a child, considering the potential impacts of climate change on different regions.  Mental Health and Climate Anxiety: She highlights the importance of navigating the overwhelming information about climate change in a way that promotes mental well-being, especially for children.  Balancing Individual and Systemic Action: The conversation explores the balance between individual choices and the need for systemic change in addressing climate change.  The Role of Companies: Emily discusses the responsibility of companies in driving sustainability initiatives and the challenges they face in balancing profit with long-term environmental goals.  Realistic Optimism: She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a hopeful outlook while acknowledging the challenges of climate change, advocating for a balanced approach that combines action with optimism.  The Power of Early Experiences: Emily shares her belief that early childhood experiences in nature can shape values and inspire future action on climate change. Relevant Links: Book: "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer  Organization: Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)  Index: Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI)  TV Show: The Good Place  Person: Katharine Hayhoe

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    Episode 1: Will and Amanda: Wildfire, Parenthood, and Finding Resilience in a Changing World

    In this episode, we journey to Yellowknife, Canada, to hear firsthand accounts of living through a climate-induced wildfire evacuation. Join Cassandra as she speaks with Amanda and Will, two friends grappling with the realities of raising children and maintaining community in a world increasingly impacted by environmental change. Guest Bios: William (Will) Gagnon is an engineer working on decarbonizing healthcare systems from the Center for Sustainable Medicine at the National University of Singapore. He shares his insights on climate resilience and the importance of systemic change. Amanda Annand is a parent and a Communities and Social Performance Advisor for Rio Tinto. Living in Yellowknife, Amanda has firsthand experience with the impacts of climate change. Her work focuses on community development and mine closure in resource-dependent communities. Key Takeaways: Climate change is personal Parenthood in the Climate Era: The conversation explored the complex emotions of becoming a parent amidst growing climate concerns. Amanda's experience with climate anxiety and grief resonated with Cassie's own reflections on raising a child in an uncertain future. Hope and Resilience are Essential: Despite the challenges, the guests emphasized the importance of maintaining hope and cultivating resilience. Amanda highlighted the example of marginalized communities who have historically found ways to persevere in the face of adversity. Finding Meaning and Purpose: The discussion touched upon balancing personal responsibility with systemic change. Will’s journey from individual actions to focusing on decarbonizing healthcare systems illustrated the importance of finding ways to make a difference within one's sphere of influence. Community and Connection: The episode highlighted the power of community in navigating climate challenges. Will and Amanda's "commune" and the support they found within their community during the evacuation underscored the importance of human connection in times of crisis. The Power of Stories: The speakers acknowledged the role of storytelling in making sense of the changing world and envisioning a better future.  Sharing personal experiences with climate change can create a sense of urgency and inspire action. Relevant Links: Book: "Ministry for the Future" by Kim Stanley Robinson TV show: “The Last of Us” Event: The 2023 wildfire evacuation of Yellowknife, Canada Event: The 2016 Fort McMurray fire in Alberta

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    Announcing a New Seasonal Podcast: So Climatic

    "So Climatic" is a podcast that explores the complex emotions and considerations surrounding the decision to have children in the era of climate change. Host Cassandra Thiel engages in intimate conversations with friends, colleagues, and experts, delving into personal experiences, ethical dilemmas, and diverse perspectives on parenthood, responsibility, and hope in a changing world. From navigating climate anxiety and grief to rethinking consumption and building resilient communities, "So Climatic" invites listeners to join a thoughtful and nuanced dialogue about one of the most pressing questions of our time.

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Candid conversations about having children in a warming world. Join us as we explore the personal, ethical, and societal complexities of this decision. Guests share their journeys & perspectives, sparking thought-provoking discussions. Subscribe now! #SoClimatic #Parenthood #ClimateChange

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    Cassandra Thiel
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    So Climatic