Ep 87 - Ordinary Soil

The negative environmental consequences of industrial food production are well known, but how does this system affect the people producing the food? Alex Woodard joins to discuss his book Ordinary Soil, a story that offers insight into the human impacts of "modern" farming methods. The book covers a broad spectrum of social and environmental issues including soil degradation, toxins, the opioid epidemic, chronic disease, and intergenerational trauma. Trigger warning: suicide and addiction. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 86 - Taking a Shine to Solar

As the cost of renewable energy continues to fall, it has become an attractive alternative to fossil fuels. Solar energy is especially attractive, as it allows consumers to produce energy onsite. Owen Barrett from Shine joins us to discuss the basics of residential solar, and how his company is helping make solar available to multifamily housing units. He also shares his thoughts on the future of the industry, and why he's optimistic it will continue to grow despite continued opposition from the fossil fuel industry. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 85 - Up in the Air

There are many alternatives to fossil fuels, but how do we pick which one(s) to use? Rinaldo Brutoco, Founding President and CEO of the World Business Academy and H2 Clipper, Inc., joins us to discuss why he believes hydrogen is the best choice. Rinaldo explains how hydrogen works and how it's being used today. He also discusses common misconceptions about hydrogen, and why the transition away from fossil fuels could be much easier than we expect. Resources discussed in this episode: 

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 84 - Life Finds a Way

Our planet is home to millions of species, many of which have yet to be discovered. Human activity is threatening an alarming number of these species, resulting in a biodiversity crisis that is drastically impacting human and non-human life. Dr. Debbie Saunders of NatureHelm joins to discuss this crisis and possible solutions. She maintains a hopeful outlook while emphasizing the need for urgent action to protect all life on earth. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 83 - The Golden Toad

This month we're joined by Trevor and Kyle Ritland, authors of the new book The Golden Toad: An Ecological Mystery and the Search for a Lost Species. The book explores the mysterious disappearance of the golden toad from its home in Costa Rica, and how Trevor and Kyle's lifelong fascination with the species led them to investigate its disappearance. They discuss this experience and how it fits into the global amphibian crisis that has emerged in recent decades. We also grapple with the implications of species extinctions, and the ecological grief that accompanies it. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Music by: Peter Emerson Jazz

Ep 82 - How to Surf a Hurricane

As the climate continues to change, so too do our expectations for what the future might hold. Climate fiction (cli-fi) is a growing genre that explores these possibilities, for better or worse.  Clean energy tech expert Todd Medema is one of the people telling these stories in his debut book How to Surf a Hurricane. Todd joins us to discuss his inspiration for writing the book, and how and why he developed a climate story that is intentionally hopeful. He also shares his perspective on effective ways to tackle the climate crisis. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Music by: Peter Emerson Jazz

Ep 81 - Just say NO to Fossil Fuels!

Our addiction to fossil fuels has devastating impacts on the environment, weather, and human health and security. Tzeporah Berman, Founder & Co-Chair of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, joins us to discuss the consequences of climate change and the need for urgent action to avoid further damage. She explains why reducing fossil fuel emissions is not enough, that we must also prioritize reducing production. Tzeporah shares how the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty is raising support for an international agreement that supports the equitable transition away from fossil fuels. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Music by: Peter Emerson Jazz

Ep 80 - What's Cooler Than Being Cool

Supercool! If you're curious about innovative advancements in sustainability, this is the episode for you! Josh Dorfman, host of the podcast Supercool, shares examples of effective climate solutions being implemented around the world. He also shares ideas for how we can better communicate the good news stories that are often overlooked. Josh's positive outlook for the future is a welcome shift from the negativity that often prevails when discussing the environment. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Music by: Peter Emerson Jazz

Ep 79 - You Are What You Eat

Everyone has to eat, but it can be overwhelming to decide what the healthiest options are, both for humans and the planet. Ali Cox, a fifth generation farmer and founder of agricultural marketing firm Noble West, joins us to discuss sustainable food production and consumption. She also shares the progress being made in the industry, and some of the challenges of communicating these stories to the public. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Music by: Peter Emerson Jazz

Ep 78 - Built to Last

The indoor spaces we live, work and spend our lives in can have great impacts on our physical and mental well-being, and how we build them can have great environmental impacts. This month we talk with Steve Pallrand, Founder of CarbonShack, about the significance of the indoor environment. Steve discusses how individuals and businesses can build and design enjoyable spaces sustainably. He also shares how the building and design industries are (and aren't) implementing these practices. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Music by: Peter Emerson Jazz