In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty speaks with Shilpi Chhotray, co-founder and president of Counter Stream Media, an independent production and communications platform that amplifies stories on climate justice, plastic pollution, and environmental health.
Together, they discuss how climate justice is social justice, exploring how environmental degradation disproportionately impacts marginalized communities. From the tragic realities of Cancer Alley to the dismantling of environmental protections under the Trump administration, this conversation reveals how systemic injustices have shaped our environment — and what can be done to change it.
Shilpi discusses her work on “A People’s Climate”, a storytelling initiative giving voice to those fighting for their right to clean air, water, and soil. The discussion also highlights the power of independent media in shaping climate awareness and action.
💡 Topics Covered:
• Environmental racism and climate justice
• How storytelling drives advocacy and change
• Cancer Alley and its devastating impact
• Trump-era rollbacks on environmental protections
• The mission and vision behind Counter Stream Media
🌍 Learn more at counterstream.org and peoplesclimate.org
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast
00:09 Introducing Shilpi Chhotray and Counter Stream Media
01:06 Counter Stream Media's Mission and Projects
04:23 Environmental Justice Explained
06:28 Communities Impacted by Environmental Injustice
08:56 Trump Administration's Environmental Policies
12:37 Grassroots Activism and Media's Role
17:10 Challenges and Solutions in Clean Energy
27:30 Final Thoughts and How to Connect
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