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" class="jsx-3162370740">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.
In this episode, Zach and Clare journey to Yosemite to meet Garrett Dickman, a forest ecologist dedicated to protecting giant sequoias, restoring ecosystems, and rethinking how we manage fire. They explore how Indigenous fire management practices have long helped maintain biodiversity, how invasive plants make wildfires more destructive, and what’s being done to safeguard these ancient trees from threats like drought and pests.
You’ll discover why fire isn’t just a force of destruction, but a necessary part of healthy forests, how restoration efforts helped save the famous Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias, and why even small actions—like learning, playing and exploring—help shape a more resilient future.
Thanks for listening, Climate Kids! Please subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to check out our website wethechildrenpodcast.com. We'd love to hear from you!
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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.
In this episode, Zach, Clare, and the Nexus Bot dive into Dan’s journey from a love of gardening to leading California’s largest urban farming company. They explore the environmental benefits of growing your own food, from reducing carbon footprints to boosting biodiversity and making fresh, nutrient-rich produce accessible. Dan also shares insights on native plants, balancing aesthetics with sustainability, and innovative solutions like agrihoods and community gardens that combine housing and food production.
You’ll discover Farmscape’s approach to integrating nature into urban environments, the potential of urban farming to tackle climate change and food insecurity, and how even small actions—like growing an herb pot—can make a big impact.
Episode Highlights:
Thanks for listening, Climate Kids! Please subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to check out our website wethechildrenpodcast.com. We'd love to hear from you!
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Wildlife ecologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Ruthmery Pillco Huarcaya joins Zach and Clare to share her incredible journey from growing up in a small Andean village to leading groundbreaking conservation efforts for the iconic Andean bear. As a trilingual Indigenous Peruvian biologist, Ruthmery brings a unique perspective to her work, blending scientific innovation with cultural and community engagement.
In this episode, Ruthmery discusses the challenges Andean bears face, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change, and highlights the vital role of these bears in maintaining biodiversity. She shares how cutting-edge tools like GPS collars and camera traps help uncover the secrets of bear behavior, as well as how her trusty dog, Ukuku, plays a key role in her fieldwork.
You'll also learn about Ruthmery’s work in environmental education, including the creation of a Bear Interpretation Center to inspire local children and communities to take an active role in conservation. Her incredible story reflects her deep commitment to protecting the cloud forest and the species that call it home.
Episode Highlights:
Meet Ruthmery Pillco Huarcaya (01:02)
The Challenges Facing Andean Bears (05:15)
The Role of Cloud Forests in Conservation (06:39)
Technology and Bear Tracking (15:42)
Cultural Significance of Andean Bears (10:17)
Engaging Communities in Conservation (08:42)
The Bear Interpretation Center and Its Impact (25:24)
The Next Generation’s Role in Climate Action (26:36)
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!
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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!
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In this episode, Zach and Clare venture into the Quantum Nexus to explore the fascinating intersection of quantum physics and climate science with Dr. Brad Marston, a physicist from Brown University. Dr. Marston unpacks how quantum mechanics connects to climate systems, from understanding the role of quantum waves in Earth’s atmosphere to the potential of quantum computers for solving complex climate models. The discussion dives into innovative carbon capture methods like enhanced rock weathering, the importance of collaboration among scientists, and the remarkable beauty of our planet’s climate system. Dr. Marston leaves us with an inspiring reminder: while the science is complex, the steps we take to protect our planet can start with appreciation and teamwork.
So, join Zach and Clare for a mind-expanding journey that’s part science, part inspiration, and all about how we can better understand—and care for—our world.
Episode Highlights:
Links:
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 form you!
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