Outrage + Optimism: The Climate Podcast
Persephonica and Global Optimism
Outrage + Optimism: The Climate Podcast is for anyone who is not ready to give up on making the world a better place. For unrivalled conversations with decision makers, visionary thinkers and a community of like-minded climate optimists, join former UN climate chief Christiana Figueres, political strategist Tom Rivett-Carnac and sustainable business consultant Paul Dickinson. Each week they make sense of all the top climate news stories, go behind the scenes at crucial talks and ensure you stay informed and inspired ahead of what is set to be the consequential year for climate action.As we approach the middle of the decisive decade for world emissions, and the 10 year anniversary of the Paris climate agreement, subscribe to Outrage + Optimism: The Climate PodcastAnd join us for our special Inside COP series with co-host Fiona McRaith where we bring you behind the scenes of COP30 in Belém! And to see video content from the show, follow us on LinkedIn, and Instagram. Got a question? Send us a voice message.This is a Persephonica production for Global Optimism and is part of the Acast Creator Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 12, 2025 • 37min
Inside COP: Is The US Still In? And Gavin Newsom on ‘invasive species’ Trump
In a fiery discussion, California Governor Gavin Newsom champions state-level climate action amidst the absence of US delegates at COP30. He emphasizes the risks to democracy posed by federal climate rollbacks and vows to oppose potential offshore drilling by Donald Trump. Newsom argues that California's long-term policies provide stability despite national upheaval, framing climate change in relatable economic terms to rally broader support. He also critiques Trump's narrative control and stresses the importance of shaping optimistic climate dialogues.
4 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 43min
Inside COP: Brazil's Climate Leadership - the COP30 host takes centre stage
Renata Piazzon, Director General of the Arapyaú Institute, is dedicated to linking climate and social solutions in Brazil. She discusses the Forest People Connection project and how storytelling can drive climate prosperity. Marina Silva, Brazil's Minister of the Environment, emphasizes the Ethical Global Stocktake's focus on sustainability as a way of being and the urgent need for a fair transition away from fossil fuels. Both highlight Brazil's role in showcasing innovative climate solutions at COP30, pushing for a narrative of regeneration over sacrifice.
8 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 39min
Inside COP: The COP30 President Speaks, the Summit Begins
André Corrêa do Lago, Brazil’s COP30 President and seasoned diplomat, dives into the challenges of steering a pivotal climate summit. He discusses the difference between negotiation and implementation, emphasizing the need for tangible progress to restore public trust. The conversation highlights how to balance leadership and impartiality while showcasing Brazil's strategies for environmental restoration. André also reflects on emerging economies' potential to lead the charge and tackle the pressing 1.5°C goal amidst a divided global landscape.
Nov 9, 2025 • 36min
Inside COP: Ed Miliband on Multilateralism, Leadership and the UK’s Climate Dilemma
Ed Miliband, a senior UK politician and former Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, delves into the UK's stance on multilateral climate efforts, including the Tropical Forests Forever Facility. He addresses the questions surrounding the UK’s lack of investment in this critical initiative and the public's support for climate action, countering narratives of backlash. The conversation also highlights the importance of international collaboration, the need for clear communication on climate goals, and the urgency of translating commitments into action as COP30 begins.
12 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 43min
Inside COP: World Leaders Gather in Belém - with Jacinda Ardern and Selwin Hart
Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, shares her insights on leadership and the pressing need for implementation at COP, urging focus on tangible actions and Indigenous rights. Selwin Hart, UN Secretary-General’s Special Adviser on Climate, discusses shifting geopolitics and the importance of highlighting economic opportunities in climate discussions. Together, they explore the Tropical Forests Forever Facility and the need for collective political momentum amidst global hesitations.
10 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 37min
Inside COP: The Power of Cities - from the Local Leaders Forum
This podcast features Keith Wilson, Mayor of Portland, who discusses innovative climate financing and resilience strategies alongside his experience in low-carbon freight. Christiana Figueres, former UN climate chief, moderates a panel highlighting cities’ crucial role in implementing climate solutions. Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, shares her city's green policies like cycling expansion and river restoration. Together, they emphasize that impactful climate action occurs locally, showcasing cities as vital leaders in the global climate movement.
Nov 6, 2025 • 44min
Inside the Earthshot Prize 2025: Royal Vision, Real Change
Jason Knauf, CEO of The Earthshot Prize, shares insights on the Prize's transformative global vision inspired by a trip to Africa. He emphasizes the importance of optimism in addressing climate challenges. Highlights include discussions on empowering Indigenous communities to protect forests, innovative finalists like Lagos Fashion Week's circular fashion, and floating hospitals providing essential services in Bangladesh. The episode captures the creative potential of environmental innovation as a beacon of hope amid daunting climate news.
Oct 30, 2025 • 39min
Inside COP: Looking for a Plan in Finance - the trillion dollar transition
In this discussion, guest host Sue Reid, a Climate Finance Advisor at Global Optimism, breaks down the complexities of climate finance and emphasizes its crucial role in policy-making and market shifts. Joined by Avinash Persaud of the Inter-American Development Bank, they explore innovative solutions like debt swaps and the ReInvest+ initiative designed to channel private capital into developing countries. They also tackle the glaring gaps in the current climate goals and the need for smarter capital use to address climate vulnerabilities, with COP30 positioned as a potential turning point.
13 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 45min
Inside COP: Teaming Up for the Planet - The Global Mutirão
André Guimarães, the Special Envoy for Civil Society for Brazil's COP30 presidency, dives into the Global Mutirão concept, highlighting its roots in Indigenous cooperation for collective climate action. He explains how this initiative aims to unite citizens and governments, making climate engagement personal and impactful. Additionally, Laura Moraes from Earth FC discusses leveraging the passion of football to rally millions around climate activism, showcasing how sports can drive community engagement and urgency in addressing climate change.
8 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 38min
Inside COP: The New World Order - power, politics and the green pie
Christiana Figueres, former UNFCCC Executive Secretary, shares insights on the complexities of geopolitics at COP30, emphasizing the need for collaboration among rising powers like Brazil and the BRICS. Bernice Lee from Chatham House discusses the evolving landscape of multipolar geopolitics and resource security, highlighting the competition for the 'green pie.' The conversation covers the implications of US withdrawal, the crucial role of minerals in shaping alliances, and how China's investments could create a more robust climate action framework.
