Podcast Summary: We Can Do Hard Things
Episode: It’s Not Too Late! How We Save the Planet with Dr. Ayana Johnson
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Hosts: Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, Amanda Doyle
Guest: Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, Marine Biologist and Climate Policy Expert

Introduction

In this compelling episode of We Can Do Hard Things, hosts Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a renowned marine biologist, policy expert, and the author of What If We Get It? Visions of Climate Futures. The discussion centers around shifting perspectives on climate change, fostering collective action, and envisioning a sustainable and thriving future for our planet.

Shifting Perspectives: From Doom to Possibility

Dr. Ayana Johnson emphasizes the importance of changing our narrative from one of doom to one of possibility. Instead of fixating on the catastrophic outcomes of climate change, she advocates for asking, "What if we get it right?" This shift not only fosters hope but also encourages actionable steps toward positive change.

Dr. Ayana Johnson [06:39]: "Instead of obsessing over what if we blow this, we have to ask, what if we get it right."

Amanda Doyle builds on this by highlighting how focusing solely on the negative can lead to paralysis and avoidance of responsibility.

Amanda Doyle [07:01]: "If we're just talking about the doom, then everyone freaks out and shrinks back... It's not totally written yet."

The Importance of Civic Engagement and Accountability

The conversation delves into the necessity of civic accountability in driving climate action. Dr. Johnson points out that meaningful change requires collective responsibility beyond individual actions.

Amanda Doyle [08:03]: "It's sort of a calling in, like, okay, like, we still get to shape the future. It's not totally written yet."

She argues that fostering a sense of accountability within communities can bridge the gap between knowing what needs to be done and actual implementation.

Dr. Ayana Johnson [11:37]: "We have to change basically everything... How can we build the best possible future together?"

Systemic Changes vs. Individual Actions

While individual actions like reducing personal carbon footprints are valuable, Amanda Doyle stresses that systemic changes are paramount. Transitioning to renewable energy, improving public transit, and enhancing building efficiencies are critical components of a broader solution.

Amanda Doyle [08:11]: "We need to transition from an economy and a society that's based on fossil fuels to one that's renewable and regenerative."

The hosts discuss the limitations of individual efforts and the necessity for structural transformations to achieve substantial environmental impact.

Cultural Influence on Climate Solutions

Dr. Johnson and the hosts explore how culture and media shape public perception of climate change. Dr. Johnson notes the scarcity of positive climate narratives in popular media, which often focus on apocalyptic scenarios instead of hopeful futures.

Amanda Doyle [22:37]: "We have very little coming out of Hollywood or music or pop culture that shows us these visions of what the future could look like."

They advocate for creating and promoting positive stories that inspire and visualize sustainable living, making climate solutions more relatable and attainable.

Finding Your Role: The Climate Action Venn Diagram

Amanda introduces her "Climate Action Venn Diagram," a tool designed to help individuals identify their unique contributions to climate solutions by intersecting what they are good at, what needs to be done, and what brings them joy.

Amanda Doyle [35:57]: "So for me, I started Urban Ocean Lab, this policy think tank for the future of coastal cities. That's my thing because it's where my skills and interests align."

This framework encourages leveraging personal strengths and passions to engage in impactful climate actions, moving beyond generic checklists to more meaningful involvement.

Collective Wisdom and Community Solutions

The importance of collective wisdom is a recurring theme. Dr. Johnson underscores that diverse perspectives and collaborative efforts are essential in tackling complex climate challenges.

Amanda Doyle [09:44]: "It's not unique in that way. But I think there's the word accountability that you mentioned already."

By pooling knowledge and resources, communities can implement effective and localized solutions, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Addressing Overwhelm and Promoting Hope

The episode acknowledges the feeling of overwhelm that many experience when confronting climate change. Dr. Johnson and the hosts advocate for actionable steps that reinforce a sense of agency and purpose, mitigating feelings of helplessness.

Amanda Doyle [25:07]: "I imagine a world that's still very much familiar, but with fewer desk jobs and more people out in the world making the world that we want to see."

They emphasize that contributing to climate solutions not only benefits the planet but also enhances personal well-being by fostering community connections and meaningful engagements.

Love as a Driving Force in Climate Action

A profound undercurrent in the discussion is the role of love in motivating climate action. Dr. Johnson relates her dedication to preserving the planet to her love for life and nature.

Amanda Doyle [46:15]: "Love is the answer in all these different ways... Community is the answer, that doing these things together is the answer."

This perspective shifts the focus from fear-driven motivation to one inspired by care and affection for the world and its inhabitants, making the endeavor both personal and deeply fulfilling.

Conclusion: Building a Brighter Future Together

In wrapping up, the episode reinforces the central message that saving the planet is not an insurmountable task. By fostering collective action, embracing systemic changes, and nurturing a culture of love and accountability, we can create a sustainable and vibrant future.

Amanda Doyle [54:40]: "How can I be useful in this moment, not worry about being hopeful, but just focus on being useful."

The hosts encourage listeners to find their unique roles within their communities, contributing to a larger movement that transcends individual efforts and builds a resilient, interconnected world.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. Ayana Johnson [06:39]: "Instead of obsessing over what if we blow this, we have to ask, what if we get it right."

• Amanda Doyle [07:01]: "If we're just talking about the doom, then everyone freaks out and shrinks back... It's not totally written yet."

• Amanda Doyle [35:57]: "So for me, I started Urban Ocean Lab, this policy think tank for the future of coastal cities. That's my thing because it's where my skills and interests align."

• Dr. Ayana Johnson [11:37]: "We have to change basically everything... How can we build the best possible future together?"

• Amanda Doyle [22:37]: "We have very little coming out of Hollywood or music or pop culture that shows us these visions of what the future could look like."

• Amanda Doyle [46:15]: "Love is the answer in all these different ways... Community is the answer, that doing these things together is the answer."

Final Thoughts

We Can Do Hard Things delivers a powerful and hopeful message in this episode, urging listeners to reframe their approach to climate change. By embracing collective responsibility, leveraging individual strengths, and being motivated by love and community, we can navigate the challenges ahead and build a sustainable, thriving planet for future generations.

Note: For those inspired to take action, consider exploring resources like bankforgood.org for sustainable banking options and greenportfolio.com for ethical investment opportunities.