Shows
Climate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 14: KimIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden welcomes Kim from Guyana, a math teacher and advocate for climate action. Kim shares her experiences biking seven miles to school in Rupununi, the local community's approach to climate change, and the role of Indigenous knowledge in environmental conservation. She discusses her work with the Indigenous Youth Fellowship program, teaching students about traditional skills and environmental awareness, and her efforts to reduce plastic use. Kim highlights the importance of small actions and Indigenous perspectives in addressing climate change.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:47 QuickFix from Emma
2026-01-2713 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 13: AbbyIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, hosted by John Whidden, guest Abby shares her experience from a science and leadership course in Costa Rica. Abby discusses the impactful conservation efforts by Osa Conservation, focusing on creating wildlife corridors and integrating sustainable agricultural practices with local communities. She emphasizes the interconnectedness of strong biodiversity and combating climate change. Abby also shares her unique approach to reducing unnecessary AI usage in Google searches. The episode concludes with an inspiring story from a community garden that highlights the power of human connection in challenging misinformation and fostering inclusive dialogue....
2026-01-2021 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 12: HaleyIn this episode, John Whidden introduces Hailey, a senior at U Chicago. They discuss practical air-cleaning tips, Hailey's Produce Peddlers initiative, her involvement in triathlons, and efforts in campus composting. Hailey emphasizes the self-serving benefits of sustainability and the value of community-supported agriculture programs. Lastly, she shares hopeful insights from her experience at COP 28.00:00 Introduction and Milestones00:51 QuickFix: Air Purifying Plants01:27 Meet Haley: Background and Connections03:22 Produce Peddlers: A Community Initiative05:21 Triathlons and Environmentalism07:03 Phoenix Sustainability Initiative09:40 Composting Tips and Challenges14:19 Community Supported...
2026-01-1318 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 11: FreeIn the first 2026 edition of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden interviews Free Borsey. They discuss the YUKA app for assessing health impacts of food and cosmetics, Free's podcast series on indigenous and western sciences, the Land Back movement, and the importance of inclusive climate action.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:34 QuickFix: Eco-Friendly App Recommendation01:18 Interview with Free: YUKA App Insights02:45 Cultural Survival Program and Indigenous Knowledge05:12 Understanding Indigenous Terminology and Borders11:01 Land Back Movement and Environmental Stewardship14:45 Indigenous Wisdom in Climate Crisis23:32 Personal Connection...
2026-01-0629 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 10: Fan FavouritesJohn and creative consultant Kayla talk about audience favourite episodes. Featuring a discussion on pee cloths, COP 29 insights, and community feedback. Ends with a call for suggestions for a potential Season Four.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:54 Kayla's QuickFix: The Pee Cloth03:07 Audience QuickFix Contributions03:39 Favorite Episodes and Reflections08:17 Listener Feedback and Highlights14:26 Kayla and John's Favorite Episodes16:26 Hope and Future of the Podcast21:48 Conclusion and Call to Actionhttps://www.avenuecalgary.com/top-20-under-20/2025/aryan-sharma/climateactionfigures@gmail.comhttps...
2025-12-0223 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 9: JuliaJoin John Whidden as he introduces Julia who delves deep into the complexities of food systems, shares her work with Food Futures in Ottawa, and connects these systems to climate change. Julia also discusses youth activism, sustainable consumption, and finding hope in climate action.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:29 QuickFix of the Week00:54 Meet Julia: Youth Activist01:54 Understanding Food Systems04:59 Food Futures Initiative07:19 Youth Engagement and Political Change11:25 Food Systems and Climate Change13:23 Can the Climate Crisis Be Solved?15:58 Julia's Journey...
2025-11-2523 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 8: AlidaJoin John Whidden on this week's episode of Climate Action Figures as he introduces Alida, a proactive high school student from Palo Alto. Learn about her journey in environmental activism, from joining the Palo Alto Student Climate Coalition to writing legislative proposals and being involved in the Stanford Deliberate Democracy Lab. Alida shares insights into the benefits and concerns of AI, her passion for business and sustainability, and her efforts in community education and engagement.00:00 Introduction and QuickFix Highlight01:38 Meet Alida: Vegan Challenges and Green Team Initiatives02:54 Palo Alto Student Climate Coalition
2025-11-1826 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 7: Day and ColleenJohn interviews Day and Colleen on their mentorship project with CPAWS. They discuss planting native lawns, environmental conservation, and hosting a workshop on November 16th. Also featured: Linda's QuickFix tip on bird and butterfly-friendly gardens. 00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:28 QuickFix from Linda: Bird and Butterfly Friendly Gardens01:10 Meet Day and Colleen01:41 Youth Conservation Collective: An Overview02:41 Day's Journey into Environmentalism04:21 The Native Lawn Project05:02 The Social and Environmental Impact of Lawns07:13 Promoting Native Lawns and Gardens09:42 Personal Climate Actions and In...
2025-11-1115 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 6: EmmaIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden introduces Emma, a representative from Re.Climate, an organization dedicated to climate change communications and research based at Carleton University in Ottawa. The discussion covers innovative recycling tips, effective communication strategies on climate change, and the importance of incorporating indigenous perspectives into climate action strategies. Emma shares her insights on a key project, Climate Ready Prairies, focused on helping communities adapt to extreme weather. She also delves into her PhD research on people's emotional connections with urban trees and their importance beyond environmental benefits. Emma emphasizes the role...
2025-11-0423 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 5: BrettIn this final part of the Climate Action Figures series, John Whidden introduces Brett Weighill, a school administrator at Piikani Nation Secondary School. The episode highlights First Nations wisdom in sustainable practices, specifically focusing on a student-led greenhouse project involving traditional plants like sweetgrass. Brett shares his journey from aspiring ethnobotanist to facilitating this initiative, emphasizing the importance of cultural context in environmental research. The episode also features the involvement of Piikani students such as Gracie and MJ, highlighting the significance of integrating cultural education within scientific pursuits.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:37 QuickFix: Be Food...
2025-10-2831 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 4: MJJoin host John Whidden in this episode of Climate Action Figures as he interviews MJ, a junior high student from Piikani Nation, about his deep connection with his family, land, and Blackfoot culture. MJ shares insights on buffalo harvesting, the school greenhouse project, and his hopes for preserving the environment and his culture.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:29 QuickFix of the Week01:19 Meet MJ: A Name with History02:08 Living Off the Land: Hunting and Harvesting03:11 Buffalo Harvesting Traditions04:56 School Greenhouse and Sweet Grass Program06:24 Cultural...
2025-10-2113 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 3: Gracie Eagle BearIn this episode, John interviews Gracie Eagle Bear, a Blackfoot high school senior with a mission to preserve her culture's traditions. Gracie discusses her spiritual journey, the significance of sweetgrass, and her aspirations to become a medicine woman.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:36 QuickFix: Reusable Coffee Pods01:04 Meet Gracie Eagle Bear01:24 Gracie's Cultural Heritage and Music Interests02:22 Honouring Pete Provost in Europe06:07 Sweetgrass Knowledge Transfer Ceremony08:21 Gracie's Aspirations as a Medicine Woman12:54 Inspiration and Family Influence13:35 Gracie's Role in the School P...
2025-10-1421 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 3, Episode 1: MikeIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden introduces Mike McDougall Price, a science teacher at Piikani Nation Secondary School. Mike discusses the importance of traditional Blackfoot and Piikani practices, his efforts to connect students to their language and culture, and various sustainable initiatives at his school, including a composting program and the cultivation of traditional plants. The episode also covers the integration of Indigenous ways of knowing with modern science to address climate change and promote sustainability.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures Season 300:39 QuickFix: Water Conservation Tips01:25 Meet Mike McDougall...
2025-09-3023 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 32: KaylaJoin John Whidden as he catches up with creative consultant Kayla on the final episode of season two of Climate Action Figures. They discuss unique climate actions, share fascinating stories from the season, and tease exciting upcoming episodes. Don't miss the quick tips on reducing waste and a call to action! Plus, fun banter about youthful trends and next season's lineup.00:00 Welcome to the Final Edition of Season Two00:37 QuickFix: Ice Cream Cones and Edible Containers01:27 Crazy Climate Challenges02:06 Keeping Warm and Composting Tips04:52 Community Cleanups and E-Bike Adventures
2025-06-1023 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 31: GurpreetJoin host John as he talks with Gurpreet, a student from India, about her experiences in Medicine Hat's Sustainability and Innovation program. Listen to her quick fix for climate action and explore how cultural transitions influence her environmental efforts. 00:00 Introduction and Quick Fixes01:35 Meet Gurpreet: Journey to Medicine Hat04:42 Gurpreet's Science Center Project08:07 Life in Canada vs. India14:45 Gurpreet's Climate Actions and Hopes16:19 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaserhttps://www.instagram.com/gurprit_kaurx?igsh=MTl6dzYwcmZnaHdwZw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrclimateactionfigures@g...
2025-06-0317 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 30: PatienceIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, John interviews Patience, an international student from Ghana. They discuss the importance of planting native species to combat invasive species and promote sustainability. Patience shares her project focused on invasive species removal and restoration using volunteers, as well as her journey in studying sustainability in Canada.00:00 Introduction and Quick Fix01:45 Meet Patience: An International Student from Ghana02:14 Sustainability in Ghana04:22 Patience's Journey to Canada05:34 Invasive Species Project07:25 Challenges and Solutions for Volunteer Recruitment08:29 Understanding Invasive Species11:57...
2025-05-2719 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 29: HarvirJohn Whidden introduces Harvir, an international student from India studying Sustainable Innovation in Canada. They discuss slow fashion, circular economy, the environmental impact of cosmetics, and practical steps for sustainability.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:37 Quick Fix: Slow Fashion01:06 Harvir's Perspective on Sustainable Fashion02:42 Harvir's Background and Program03:33 Sustainable Practices in Everyday Life04:54 Harvir's Cosmetics Project11:00 Differences in Climate Perception: India vs. Canada13:36 Harvir's Climate Action Focus15:40 Innovative Solutions and Hope for the Future17:35 Conclusion and FarewellHarvir on...
2025-05-2018 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 28: JessJoin hosts John Whidden and Jess LeBlanc as they discuss empowering youth and educators to take meaningful climate action through the 'N:OW for net-zero' initiative. Hear inspiring success stories, tips for impactful advocacy, and the importance of community-driven solutions. 00:00 Introduction and QuickFix01:03 Meet Jess LeBlanc and FES01:37 N:OW for Net-Zero: Empowering Schools03:17 Success Stories and Impact05:28 Application Process and Support07:23 Government Involvement and Future Vision13:55 Youth Harbour: Supporting Young Climate Organizers15:57 The Power of Storytelling19:03 Women in Climate Action
2025-05-1327 minClimate Action FiguresNon-Episode With No GuestWe have no guest this week, but John talks about next week's guest!climateactionfigures@gmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/climateactionfigureshttps://www.instagram.com/climateactionfigures/https://www.youtube.com/@ClimateActionFigures
2025-04-2902 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 26: Alex and SamJoin host John in this episode of Climate Action Figures as he talks with brothers Alex and Sam about their initiative to recycle and refurbish electronics, reducing e-waste. They also discuss Martha's repair cafe and share their personal climate actions and hopes for the future.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:40 QuickFix: Martha's Repair Cafe01:28 Meet Alex and Sam: The Electronics Recycling Enthusiasts01:50 The Importance of Electronics Recycling04:32 Statistics and Studies on E-Waste06:40 Public Awareness and Education09:34 Personal Climate Actions and Future Aspirations11:00 Conclusion...
2025-04-2212 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 25: PoojaIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden introduces Pooja, the founder of Youth Climate Collaborative. They discuss youth-led climate initiatives, the importance of conscious consumerism, and Pooja’s journey in climate advocacy, accompanied by tips on preventing burnout while making a significant impact00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures01:00 This Week's QuickFix: Voting with Your Wallet02:26 Meet Pooja: Founder of Youth Climate Collaborative04:07 Open Doors Initiative: Connecting Youth to Opportunities07:12 Jaali: A Digital Social Impact Platform11:01 Balancing Passion and Personal Life16:16 Pooja's Journey an...
2025-04-1527 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 24: SamJohn interviews Sam from WriggleBrew about sustainable gardening solutions, including household pesticides and fertilizers. Sam discusses the environmental impact of synthetic fertilizers and introduces his eco-friendly product derived from earthworm castings. They also emphasize the importance of home composting and addressing greenwashing in the industry. 00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:27 QuickFix: Eco-Friendly Gardening Tips00:50 Meet Sam: Sustainable Agriculture Innovator01:11 DIY Natural Pesticides04:22 Understanding Fertilizer Runoff06:42 WriggleBrew: A Sustainable Solution07:11 Organic Fertilizers and Certifications09:45 Sam's Journey and Inspiration12:08 Marketing and Availability of W...
2025-04-0828 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 22: HilaryIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, hosts John Whidden and Dr. Hillary Inwood discuss the importance of education in addressing the climate crisis, focusing on initiatives like SCAN at the University of Toronto and ESETE. They highlight practical tips, integrating Indigenous knowledge, and the critical role of art and experiential learning in environmental education.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:49 QuickFix of the Week01:35 Discussion on Fast Fashion01:56 SCAN and Its Mission03:07 Role of Education in Climate Action07:32 ESETE and National Initiatives10:00 Indigenous Perspectives...
2025-03-2522 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 21: Hailey and AshtonIn this episode, John introduces young environmentalists, Hailey and Ashton, who share their experiences with growing plants, outdoor adventures, and learning about nature. Highlighted topics include their gardening projects, hiking trips, and their observations of local wildlife.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:35 QuickFix: I Love My Planet Cards01:22 Meet Hailey and Ashton01:29 Growing Plants and Outdoor Adventures03:13 Salmon Run and Backyard Fun06:48 Winter Activities and Wildlife Encounters09:05 Picnics and Climate Action10:27 Final Thoughts and Goodbyeclimateactionfigures@gmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com...
2025-03-1811 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 20: Apooyak'iiThanks to Joel Haberstock for introducing us to this week's guest!In this episode of Climate Action Figures, John interviews Apooyak'ii, Dr. Tiffany Hind Bull Prete, a member of the Blood Tribe from the Blackfoot Confederacy. Apooyak'ii discusses the importance of land, traditional ecological knowledge, and the natural law of balance from a Blackfoot perspective. She shares insights on how non-Indigenous people can learn from Indigenous knowledge systems to better care for the Earth. The conversation also covers the significance of reconciliation, the role of Indigenous languages, and practical steps individuals can take for climate action. Resources...
2025-03-1128 min