Episode Summary: "Ep. 346 Curating Climate Conversations with Ayana Elizabeth Johnson"

The Stacks, hosted by Traci Thomas, delves deep into meaningful conversations about books and their impact on our understanding of culture, race, politics, and more. In Episode 346, released on November 20, 2024, Traci welcomes Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a renowned marine biologist, policy expert, and author. Their discussion centers around Ayana's latest work, "What if We Get It Right? Visions on Climate Futures," exploring innovative climate solutions that prioritize equity and community.

1. Introduction to Ayana's Book

Traci begins by expressing her admiration for Ayana's book, highlighting its transformative impact on her perspective regarding climate work and building a more equitable world.

Traci Thomas [04:45]: "This book fundamentally changed what I think could be possible not only in climate work, but across many fields as we build a more equitable world."

Ayana describes the book's structure as a collection of 20 transcribed interviews with individuals driving climate solutions across various sectors.

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [05:28]: "It's largely conversations, 20 transcribed interviews with people who have helped me see the way forward. It's all about solutions and possibilities..."

2. The Venn Diagram: Love, Skill, and Need

A core concept from Ayana's book is a Venn diagram encouraging individuals to find intersections between what they love, what they're good at, and what the world needs.

Traci Thomas [16:05]: "Find something that you love, find something you're good at, and find something that is needed and insert yourself in that Venn diagram."

Ayana emphasizes that often the most impactful area people overlook is recognizing and leveraging their unique skills within their spheres of influence.

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [17:41]: "The 'what are you good at' circle seems to be the hardest for people. We're very harsh critics of ourselves often."

3. Engaging Regular People in Climate Action

The conversation shifts to practical ways everyday individuals can contribute to climate justice without needing to become environmental experts or starting their own organizations.

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [19:04]: "Joining existing efforts where you can apply your skills—like being a project manager or a designer—is incredibly impactful."

Traci shares her personal journey of growing food in her backyard as a small yet meaningful step, resonating with Ayana's message that collective small actions lead to significant change.

4. Overcoming Cultural Barriers

A significant hurdle in climate action is the cultural emphasis on individualism and ownership prevalent in American society. Both Traci and Ayana discuss how these values often conflict with collective environmental efforts.

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [41:23]: "One of the things that really blew my mind was a study that men didn't want to carry reusable bags because it was too feminine. And I was like, oh, we are screwed."

They explore how societal norms around possessions, such as the stigma attached to reusable items or the allure of large vehicles, hinder sustainable practices.

5. The Power of Community

Highlighting the importance of community, Ayana shares anecdotes of neighbors supporting each other during climate-induced disasters, reinforcing the idea that collective resilience is crucial.

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [49:15]: "There’s so much good that is happening. It was heartwarming to see how neighbors stepped up and helped each other during hurricanes."

Traci echoes this sentiment, advocating for community-driven initiatives like repair shops and tool-sharing programs to foster a sustainable and supportive environment.

6. Financial Implications and Climate Activism

The discussion delves into the role of financial systems in perpetuating fossil fuel dependence. Ayana reveals startling facts about major banks' investments in fossil fuels despite the pressing need for clean energy diversification.

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [35:20]: "Since 2015, the big banks have provided one and a half trillion dollars to fossil fuel companies. It’s troubling that we don’t have leadership pushing banks to divest."

She underscores the impact of individual financial decisions, advocating for investing in fossil-free funds to ensure personal savings do not inadvertently support harmful industries.

7. Navigating Hope and Realism in Climate Solutions

Ayana and Traci discuss the nuanced relationship between hope and action, emphasizing that while hope fuels motivation, it's equally essential to engage in pragmatic and community-focused solutions.

Traci Thomas [39:52]: "You don’t need to be hopeful. You don’t have to. You can experience joy without being hopeful."

Ayana stresses that being part of communal efforts can provide the necessary support and sense of purpose to navigate the emotional and psychological challenges of climate activism.

8. Personal Reflections: Writing and Communication

Towards the episode's end, Ayana shares her meticulous writing process, illustrating her dedication to effectively communicating complex climate solutions in an accessible manner. She touches on her experiences with voice modulation to appear more approachable, highlighting the strategic use of communication to engage diverse audiences.

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [56:09]: "I am obsessive about editing... I write slowly and quickly, but the editing is relentless."

Traci relates this to her approach in making The Stacks a welcoming space for all readers, regardless of their expertise or familiarity with books.

9. Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

In their concluding remarks, Ayana expresses a desire for influential figures, such as Donald Trump or Elon Musk, to engage with her book to drive substantial climate policy changes. She emphasizes the urgency of uniting across societal divides to implement effective climate solutions.

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [63:04]: "If I could get Donald Trump or Elon Musk to read and absorb this book, that would be a game changer."

Traci encourages listeners to obtain Ayana's book and engage in the ongoing climate conversation, reinforcing the episode's central themes of community, collective action, and strategic involvement.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [05:28]: "It's all about solutions and possibilities and the many answers to that big what if we get it right Question."

• Traci Thomas [16:05]: "Find something that you love, find something you're good at, and find something that is needed and insert yourself in that Venn diagram."

• Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [19:04]: "Joining existing efforts where you can apply your skills—like being a project manager or a designer—is incredibly impactful."

• Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [35:20]: "Since 2015, the big banks have provided one and a half trillion dollars to fossil fuel companies. It’s troubling that we don’t have leadership pushing banks to divest."

• Traci Thomas [39:52]: "You don’t need to be hopeful. You don’t have to. You can experience joy without being hopeful."

• Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson [63:04]: "If I could get Donald Trump or Elon Musk to read and absorb this book, that would be a game changer."

Conclusion:

Episode 346 of The Stacks with Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson offers a comprehensive exploration of sustainable climate solutions rooted in community and equity. Through engaging dialogue and insightful anecdotes, Traci and Ayana illuminate practical pathways for individuals to contribute meaningfully to climate action, despite cultural and systemic barriers. The episode serves as both a call to action and a beacon of hope, highlighting that collective effort and strategic involvement are paramount in envisioning and achieving a sustainable future.