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

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  [https://www.amazon.com/Climate-Anxiety-Kid-Question-Uncertain/dp/0520393821] * Book: "On Infertile Ground: Population Control and Women's Rights in the Era of Climate Change" by Jade Sasser  [https://www.amazon.com/Infertile-Ground-Population-Control-Climate/dp/1479899356] * Book: "Parenting in a Changing Climate" by Elizabeth Bechard  [https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Changing-Climate-cultivating-resilience/dp/1947708570] * Organization: Climate Mental Health Network  [https://www.climatementalhealth.net/] * Resource: Climate Emotions Wheel (from the Climate Mental Health Network)  [https://www.climatementalhealth.net/wheel] * Documentary: "The Climate Baby Dilemma"  [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt22009754/] * Book: "Gen Dread" by Britt Wray  [https://www.amazon.com/Generation-Dread-Finding-Purpose-Climate/dp/073528072X] * Organization: Moms Clean Air Force  [https://www.momscleanairforce.org/] * Book: "Lessons for Survival" by Emily Raboteau  [https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Survival-Emily-Raboteau/dp/1250809762] * Book: "The Quickening" by Elizabeth Rush  [https://www.amazon.com/Quickening-Creation-Community-Ends-Earth/dp/B0C3DL9G6V/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1335908358025493&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Ko1GlEUq140ShjQ2PZIv8I8Q0MPlxTW-gx5heuKGpz-7pZwUS7i-k6P3vBeNtz2rAZjUOQHGoqh_ZCh49iXg0l4mdszJWUlyUWD1s2auXdk.ZcOg8s8LP6eJq4eXnr2Im-LTNxfUcoVgdOu0TzSMjoE&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83494561430672&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=65164&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83495331909802%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=10029_13485509&keywords=the+quickening+elizabeth+rush&msclkid=37ef881262511a718032ef5c75019049&qid=1733171027&sr=8-1] * Book:  "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer  [https://www.amazon.com/Braiding-Sweetgrass-Indigenous-Scientific-Knowledge/dp/1571313567] * Book: "The Last Fire Season" by Manjula Martin  [https://www.amazon.com/Last-Fire-Season-Personal-Pyronatural/dp/0593317157]

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.   [https://www.acog.org/]  * Organization: The Heinz Foundation: A philanthropic organization that supports various causes, including environmental conservation and sustainability.    [https://www.heinz.org/] * Organization: The Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education (GCCHE): A collaborative initiative focused on integrating climate change and health education into medical curricula. [https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/research/programs/global-consortium-climate-health-education]   * 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.    [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt22009754/] * Organization: Aravind Eye Care System: A non-profit eye care system in India known for its high-quality, low-cost services and sustainable practices. [https://aravind.org/our-story/]

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  [https://www.vrg.org/] * Book: "Factfulness" by Hans Rosling  [https://www.amazon.com/Factfulness-Reasons-World-Things-Better/dp/1250107814]

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  [https://www.amazon.com/Too-Many-People-Reversing-Growth/dp/0929765931] * Book: "Principles of Green Bioethics" by Cristina Richie  [https://www.amazon.com/Principles-Green-Bioethics-Sustainability-Health/dp/1611863236] * Book: "Environmental Ethics and Medical Reproduction" by Cristina Richie  [https://www.betterworldbooks.com/product/detail/environmental-ethics-and-medical-reproduction-9780197745182?shipto=US&curcode=USD&msclkid=5964bf79737f17a9f00bd8376307e05a&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pMax-New-USA%20(PSDW)&utm_term=2329452822806819&utm_content=Products%20Only] * 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")  [https://www.oregonlive.com/environment/2009/07/oregon_state_researchers_concl.html] * Book: "Reproductive Rights and Wrongs" by Betsy Hartman  [https://www.amazon.com/Reproductive-Rights-Wrongs-Politics-Population/dp/1608467333/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1339205732119608&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.r5vVkVBvsm5r0hfKo1vHyA0ZnFt-2XeaG8Ms_ohDKNPkwGiYQznQRMDEfO9942_vgR1_cAe_oEel5hFqmXn3xiT52lFI-2hGMXs04TaoE3YTUguCYW59Zum7c0u0YzjnON0gtEP2tc-V0v9rJkyWh9sQlszG9chZPWupV5y03r8ADo2KVoH0iKC7VVu5gDRYQbNMszKpqYrPsEabUc76kBBN_Ed3BpPJQ1DlkEHAwPM.o0wqJOlJdxUOQ7m1ScL39ehWt03tpxnSnaIsTLXZ_jI&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83700596968440&hvbmt=bp&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=65164&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=p&hvtargid=kwd-83700713800408%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=9391_13534021&keywords=reproductive+rights+and+wrongs&msclkid=4eb0033866121487eaf36476770faf56&qid=1733169449&sr=8-1]

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 [https://www.amazon.com/This-Your-Brain-Birth-Control/dp/0593713915/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1335907202574373&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.MwxlKp2xTH5DbwJcVTE7aEMkIkyzvKJm5lrxKo9Wq8ATXHme8vFf1SBVpNuBezcpWlu5Y2qMf_k0jdSVbRKMOShr9BfZKH6bOoIS2Sno8zE.8B5bm0srDMKFvsYQ2dbcfAs7y0ZzLZ_RUa4AfbdEArY&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83494272865373&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=65164&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83494566799186%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=1682_10518928&keywords=this+is+your+brain+on+birth+control+by+sarah+hill&qid=1733168753&sr=8-1] * Book: "The Changing World Order" by Ray Dalio [https://www.amazon.com/Changing-World-Order-Nations-Succeed/dp/1982160276/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1330410803071168&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.br3n5jssRJ3llvXyHvMTNuv-PzmZsK7vWPHdeBKzOJKMKWIbkwMSheKCbHWg79YDuarRhqHKZTHdDnT0tjpluDJPSWwpYdYfEV3uKORFhS0tJ0KFS4J7kqq6gEsr0eqveAac-MLQRrb9GlI9rpe0YGVB-z6ur62fd_fjTZi-un3xRTIHJSYMug-vhxgiXMKtgG8Iox-EtjmmQ8lc8lHm-InolpcAWkrp5n6-z2E1OzY.aql9_j74euJAOxHQ_cPUn72paRLN1pwDFHvu7kyMIQU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83150966066281&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=65164&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83151737433968%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=15547_13558979&keywords=the+changing+world+order+by+ray+dalio&msclkid=fd2c5bfd68db145a7ac83cb366a4afc0&qid=1733168771&sr=8-1] * Book: "The Myth of Normal" by Gabor Maté [https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Normal-Illness-Healing-Culture/dp/B09B83215L/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1338108046142167&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PkwXyx4ppFQGwPs_KmPAPh5py4QFWCWYLB1Bi-TYM3GRchjZ7y79IddZDySqstu9xpsy4acqNyz_CQPjeMnZzSFZo59vBKesYhDWHt5_xWLl3eRp6n28PD2vZJDQhJukoCJDGp0aUqyY0bfjvTt9Q9J_Vfr97FygqSn1ZxtkRXVaU47Lr7Viy3g_T8izVq-XdM1drdt3lvPpuldGHbmBB9ovS_txGNxFZjGsxu4p3C8.Sp-OxrQsCVfNRPi3KcY5Jm8qeYnZqgdKybJKVpjWwgM&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83632015416669&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=65164&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83632793509652%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=15553_13519407&keywords=the+myth+of+normal+by+gabor+mat%C3%A9&msclkid=6e3638d3f61211a9e2c05f9df88b11e6&qid=1733168795&sr=8-1] * Book: "Being Mortal" by Atul Gawande [https://www.amazon.com/Being-Mortal-Medicine-What-Matters/dp/1250076226/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1346902308556367&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.O8nlroT8DDaFjJHaURYYZxHTQL-alx3fqn08wKraCClwrpgsQ_6df_WC0Ul30Pdpt26PXoUQ6hLH4KhwED72Z-l3s7Pu2tWWCzWX6ViDoqPra2U1jQFOk5fnvVVkbKXNewGGMzlbwC_6pBS658_yJTTSrLnDwJGPEb2klOzq96XRIacfUwcnlwgFawe1Aa6ypgmYzrfA-IpDvpdl4lByxHHnRlOIZP7NCAord4WEt2c.aUD0T3dt1XtIMy8fWtWZVOML7NpcfjKVLu_v3jCoQok&dib_tag=se&hvadid=84181633391465&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=65164&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-84181739984459%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=22567_13494438&keywords=being+mortal+-+atul+gawande&qid=1733168840&sr=8-1] * Article: New York Times article about the open-air pyre in Crestone, Colorado (search for "Crestone Colorado cremation" on the NYT website) [https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/18/us/colorado-funeral-pyre.html] * Movement: Gen Dread movement (you can link to a relevant website or article explaining the concept) [https://www.brittwray.com/gen-dread]