We The Children - Kids Talk Climate Solutions

The Time is Now to Get it Right: Practical Solutions with Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

We The Children - Kids Talk Climate Solutions

Show Notes

What’s your role in saving the planet? Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson-- Marine biologist and the author of What If We Get It Right: Visions of Climate Futures, joins Zach and Clare to discuss pressing topics like the need to protect and restore natural ecosystems, rethink industrial agriculture, and enhance energy efficiency. Dr. Johnson shines a spotlight on innovative solutions in ocean conservation, including regenerative ocean farming and the critical role of coastal ecosystems in combating climate change

Listeners are introduced to Dr. Johnson’s Climate Venn Diagram. It's a practical framework that encourages individuals to find their unique role in climate action by aligning their skills, passions, and the planet’s needs. She offers examples of how this approach can empower people from all walks of life to contribute meaningfully to climate solutions.

Zach and Clare highlight Dr. Johnson’s focus on climate justice, emphasizing fairness in tackling the crisis and ensuring that vulnerable communities have a voice in creating solutions. Dr. Johnson inspires young listeners to get involved at local levels, from starting climate clubs in schools to participating in citizen science projects. And her message is clear—every effort counts, and together we can create a more sustainable, just, and hopeful future.

Episode Highlights:

Meet Dr. Ayanna Elizabeth Johnson (01:02) The Climate Venn Diagram (02:25) Visions of Climate Futures (06:06) The Role of Nature in Climate Solutions (09:34) The Importance of Coastal Ecosystems (20:21) Citizen Science and Youth Involvement (22:12) Climate Justice and Fairness (23:23) Resilience and Motivation in Climate Action (26:18) Conclusion and Call to Action (29:15) Voice of Hope - Eric Stackpole (30:19)

Subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Also, check out our website (wethechildrenpodcast.com). We love to hear from you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More from We The Children - Kids Talk Climate Solutions

Apr 8, 2025

What if climate solutions didn’t start in boardrooms, but in communities? What if local knowledge and youth voices were central to climate action? In this season finale of We the Children, Zach sits down with Dr. Anyse Pereira—a scientist, conservationist, and global climate advocate whose work bridges traditional wisdom and modern science.

Mar 25, 2025

What if every school made climate education a priority? What if students everywhere had the tools to take real action in their communities? In this episode of We the Children, Zach and Clare dive into these big questions with two inspiring guests from EarthDay.org, Dennis Nolasco and Emily Walker.

Mar 12, 2025

Have you ever dreamed of exploring the deep sea, uncovering lost treasures, or even launching your own robot into the unknown? Today, Zach and Clare dive into the world of underwater exploration with Eric Stackpole, an engineer, inventor, and deep-sea explorer who has spent his career building tools to help us see the world in new ways.

Feb 11, 2025

For thousands of years, fire has shaped the landscapes of places like Yosemite National Park. But in a world of rising temperatures and longer fire seasons, understanding fire as a natural force is more important than ever.

Jan 28, 2025

With over 15 years of experience, Dan Allen, CEO of Farmscape, shares how his team is transforming urban areas into thriving edible gardens while reconnecting communities with sustainable food production.

See all episodes →