Stop the endless cycle of doom-scrolling; engage in constructive efforts to shape our future, as advocated by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson.

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Stop the endless cycle of doom-scrolling; engage in constructive efforts to shape our future, as advocated by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson.

Podcast Season 1,* Episode 3*

The Nature Of Optimism: A Conversation with Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

Tune in to The Nature Of this week for an empowering discussion on climate solutions, systemic change, and the power of storytelling with marine biologist and climate justice trailblazer Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Nature Of here.

In nature, resilience is the name of the game - coral reefs repair, forests heal, and ecosystems find equilibrium when provided the chance. So, what if we could apply this wisdom to the climate crisis? Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a leading marine biologist, policy expert, author, and Roux Distinguished Scholar at Bowdoin College, joins Willow for a penetrating conversation about climate optimism, systemic change, and the transformative potential of solutions-driven narratives. As the founder of the What If We Get it Right? book and podcast, Ayana serves up an enticing vision of what lies ahead when we shift our focus from catastrophe to collective action. Buckle up as they delve into the importance of local, community-based efforts, the essential role of imagination in climate work, and how each one of us contributes to shaping a new tomorrow.

About the Guest

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, with her infectious blend of passion and pragmatism, is a marine biologist, policy expert, writer, and educator on a mission to help shape a climate-resilient future. She is the founder and head of Urban Ocean Lab, a think tank for the future of coastal cities, and a Roux Distinguished Scholar at Bowdoin College. Ayana is the creator of the What If We Get it Right? book and podcast, an insightful host and co-creator of the Spotify/Gimlet podcast How to Save a Planet, and a co-author of the Blue New Deal, a roadmap for integrating the ocean into climate policy. She holds a BA in environmental science and public policy from Harvard University, and a Ph.D. in marine biology from Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Ayana serves on the boards of directors for Patagonia and GreenWave, and on the advisory board of Environmental Voter Project. And, at the heart of everything, Ayana is fiercely in love with climate solutions.

Episode Transcript

Introduction

Listening to the latest episode of The Nature Of, I felt a renewed sense of empowerment after hearing marine biologist and climate change trailblazer Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson's uplifting perspectives. Her engaging book, What If We Get it Right?, and the conversations she leads around solutions-driven storytelling, have left a lasting impact on me.

My name is Willow Defebaugh, and this is The Nature Of. In each episode, we explore the natural world for insights on navigating the human experience. This week, we're delving into the essence of solutions.

Throughout my work, I've often found myself treading in the darker aspects of climate change - the problems, the catastrophic predictions, the despair-and theWeight of it can be crushing. That's exactly why Ayana's work lives and breathes solutions. Speaking with her, I found myself feeling grounded, motivated, and energized by the myriad pathways to a healthy and livable future open before us.

Willow Defebaugh

Welcome, Ayana, and thank you for joining me on the podcast. I want to start by throwing one of your favorite questions from your book right back at you - what are three things that you wish everyone knew about climate solutions?

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

Three things I wish everyone knew about climate solutions? I'm going to try to sum this up quickly, otherwise, we'll be here all day.

Firstly, I wish that people realized that we have the solutions we need right now. Yes, there might be some new technologies that could help, but for the most part, we already know what needs to be done. We know how to produce solar energy, improve our public transportation, green our buildings, reduce food waste, and the list goes on. The question is not what we should do, but how quickly we can do it, and what role each one of us can play in achieving it.

Secondly, I wish that people understood that there's a role for everyone in this climate crusade. People often think, I'm not an engineer, I'm not a politician, but there are so many ways to contribute: we need project managers, graphic designers, event planners, administrators, bus drivers, teachers, and even public relations professionals and storytellers. In fact, we need Hollywood engaged on this issue. The climate crisis is an opportunity for all of us to bring our unique talents and ideas to the table.

Lastly, I wish that people knew that addressing the climate crisis is not just a chore - it can be fun and creative. Working on solutions can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose. For me, this work has been a labor of love, filled with laughter, creativity, and camaraderie. Climate change doesn't have to feel overwhelming; it's a call to action that we can all embrace.

Willow Defebaugh

I couldn't agree more with every word you just said. Ayana's book, What If We Get it Right?, is a powerful reminder that despite the bleak projections and seemingly insurmountable obstacles, solutions are not only possible but within our grasp. As she eloquently states in the book, "Things don't have to be this way."

One of the most fascinating aspects of Ayana's work is her emphasis on the power of imagination when it comes to tackling climate change. In a recent conversation, she shared her thoughts on how imagination can help shift our perspective from the problems to the possibilities ahead.

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

Imagination is crucial when it comes to the climate crisis, because when we focus on the negatives, it's easy to get discouraged. But if we can imagine a better world, one in which we've address the climate crisis effectively, that can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation.

When we think about the future, we imagine what we want it to look like, and we often choose the best of what we know. It's a call to action to create the world we want to live in. And one of the most exciting things about climate solutions is that there's so much room for innovation, for new ideas, for new ways of doing things.

That's not to say that there isn't doubt, uncertainty, or challenges along the way. But I find that by focusing on the possibilities ahead, we're better able to face the challenges and overcome them.

Willow Defebaugh

As a climate writer, I can attest to the transformative power of Ayana's vision. Her work has inspired me to think beyond the bleak headlines and despairing statistics, and instead focus on the solutions that lie within our reach. It's a call to become a part of the solution, to find the motivation and determination to reimagine our future and embrace the opportunities to create positive change.

Throughout the conversation, Ayana emphasized the critical role each of us can play in shaping that future, no matter our background, skills, or resources.

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

A lot of people feel like they're not experts on climate change, so they don't believe they can contribute. But that couldn't be further from the truth. The climate crisis affects every aspect of our lives, and every sector has a role to play in addressing it. We need creative solutions, new ideas, fresh perspectives, and that comes from a diverse group of people working together.

We need people in every community, from every walk of life, to come together and share their ideas, their aspirations, their hopes for a sustainable future. That's where the real power lies, in the collective wisdom, passion, and energy of everyday people.

Willow Defebaugh

Ayana's words ring true - the climate crisis is everybody's problem, and everyone has a role to play in the solutions. As we close out this conversation, it's important to remember that addressing climate change is about more than just the bigger issues and national policies. It's about the decisions we make on a daily basis, the actions we take in our homes, communities, and workplaces, and the choices we make as consumers.

Choosing to support companies that prioritize sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint, and advocating for further action at the policy level are just a few ways that we can contribute to the collective effort to address climate change. And by focusing on the solutions, rather than the problems, we can find hope and determination in the face of challenge.

As we walk away from this conversation, let's remember Ayana's powerful message - things don't have to be this way. With a shift in perspective, a commitment to collaboration, and a focus on solutions, we can create the future we want to see.

Equipping Yourself for Solutions-Driven Storytelling

To dive deeper into the fascinating world of solutions-driven storytelling, here are five Key Takeaways from my conversation with Ayana Elizabeth Johnson:

1. Shift your focus from problems to solutions: Instead of dwelling on the problems of climate change, focus on the solutions that already exist. When we tap into the wealth of positive actions being taken worldwide, we can draw inspiration and motivation to get involved.
2. Imagine a better world: By envisioning a future we desire, we unlock the potential for transformational change. Imagination plays a pivotal role in creating new ideas, sparking innovation, and fostering a sense of purpose.
3. Embrace collaboration: Working together is crucial for addressing climate change on a global scale. By bringing diverse perspectives and ideas to the table, we can collectively build a stronger, more resilient future.
4. Find your unique role: Whether you're a project manager, graphic designer, event planner, or a passionate advocate, there's a place for you in the conversation around climate solutions. Identifying your own skills and talents, and using them for the greater good, is one of the most impactful ways to contribute.
5. Keep it fun and engaging: At its core, addressing climate change is a human endeavor, filled with emotion, creativity, and connection. By finding ways to make the work enjoyable, we increase the likelihood of success and cultivate a lasting commitment to the cause.

Embrace the power within you to contribute to solutions-driven storytelling, and together we can create a brighter, more sustainable future.

Sources:

1. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "What If We Get It Right?," W.W. Norton Company, 2021.
2. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Katharine Wilkinson, "All We Can Save: Truth, Courage, and Solutions for theClimate Crisis," Penguin Random House, 2020.
3. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "Urban Ocean Lab." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://urbanoceanlab.org/.
4. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "Blue New Deal: Securing Ocean Solutions to Build a Better Future," Revisionist Collective, 2021.
5. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Dr. Ayana Johnson, "Blue Hope." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.bluehope.co/.
6. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, Twitter, 2022. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://twitter.com/DrAyanaJ.
7. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, LinkedIn, 2023. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayana-johnson-13187a3/.
8. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, Instagram, 2023. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.instagram.com/ayana_johnson/.
9. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, How to Save a Planet, 2021-present. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.howtosaveaplanet.com/.
10. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "What If We Get It Right?" Podcast, 2022-present. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://whatifwegetitright.com/.
11. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "Nature of Solutions." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.atmosmag.com/.

Episode Transcript

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson's Key Solutions for a Better Climate Future

With so much at stake, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the climate crisis. But Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson offers a beacon of hope through her focus on solutions-driven storytelling. In her recent conversation with Willow, Ayana shared some transformative solutions that can make a real difference in addressing climate change. Here's a recap:

1. Supporting renewable energy: Scaling up offshore renewable energy through wind, solar, and tidal power can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pave the way for a more sustainable energy future.
2. Decarbonizing transportation: Transitioning from gasoline and diesel vehicles to electric vehicles and high-speed rail can dramatically decrease air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, while improving our overall quality of life.
3. Eating more sustainably: Adjusting our diets to include low-carbon and plant-based foods, in addition to supporting sustainable seafood, can help reduce the environmental impact of our food system and bolster the resilience of our oceans.
4. Protecting natural ecosystems: Maintaining and restoring wetlands, forests, mangroves, and other natural ecosystems can help buffer against the effects of climate change, while also providing habitat for diverse species and improving water quality.
5. Increasing investments in resilient infrastructure: Building infrastructure that is designed to withstand the impacts of climate change can help protect communities and reduce recovery costs in the aftermath of extreme weather events.
6. Expanding climate education: Promoting climate education at all levels, including in schools and communities, can help foster a better understanding of the challenges we face and empower people to take action.
7. Bringing nature into cities: Creating green spaces and incorporating nature into city planning can help improve air quality, reduce heat island effects, and increase overall well-being for city dwellers.
8. Transforming finance: Shifting investments away from fossil fuels and towards climate solutions, as well as supporting sustainable businesses and sectors, can be a powerful catalyst for a low-carbon economy.
9. Planning for equitable and sustainable development: Prioritizing equitable and sustainable development, particularly in vulnerable communities, can help reduce the disproportionate impacts of climate change on low-income populations and ensure that everyone benefits from the transition to a more sustainable future.
10. Embracing creativity and imagination: Infusing creativity, innovation, and an enthusiastic spirit into our climate work can help generate new ideas, attract a diverse range of participants, and create a more energized and engaged community.

By embracing these solutions, we can make a real impact in addressing the climate crisis and building a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

Equipping Yourself as a Solutions-Driven Advocate

Want to be part of fostering a solutions-focused approach to climate change? Here are five steps to help you become a solutions-driven advocate:

1. Start local: Begin by engaging in your community through local organizations, volunteering, or advocacy groups. This can help you connect with like-minded individuals and learn more about the issues impacting your area.
2. Empower yourself with knowledge: Educate yourself on the latest climate research and solutions, as well as the policies and programs being implemented in your community and at the national level.
3. Speak up: Use your voice to share your ideas and aspirations for a sustainable future, whether through conversations with friends, family, or elected officials.
4. Take action: Support local initiatives that prioritize climate solutions and advocate for policies that address the root causes of climate change, such as transitioning to renewable energy, investing in energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable transportation.
5. Remain positive and optimistic: Stay focused on the solutions and the progress being made, rather than the obstacles and challenges. By championing a positive and hopeful approach, you'll be more likely to inspire and motivate others to join you in creating a better future.

As you strive to become a solutions-driven advocate, remember to celebrate the small successes along the way, and to lean on the support of others in your community. The future is ours to create, and by embracing our individual roles in the process, we can build a sustainable and resilient world for generations to come.

References

1. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "What If We Get It Right?," W.W. Norton Company, 2021.
2. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Katharine Wilkinson, "All We Can Save: Truth, Courage, and Solutions for the Climate Crisis," Penguin Random House, 2020.
3. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "Urban Ocean Lab." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://urbanoceanlab.org/.
4. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "Blue New Deal: Securing Ocean Solutions to Build a Better Future," Revisionist Collective, 2021.
5. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Dr. Ayana Johnson, "Blue Hope." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.bluehope.co/.
6. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, Twitter, 2022. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://twitter.com/DrAyanaJ.
7. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, LinkedIn, 2023. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayana-johnson-13187a3/.
8. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, Instagram, 2023. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.instagram.com/ayana_johnson/.
9. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, How to Save a Planet, 2021-present. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.howtosaveaplanet.com/.
10. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "What If We Get It Right?" Podcast, 2022-present. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://whatifwegetitright.com/.
11. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, "Nature of Solutions." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.atmosmag.com/.
12. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, "Offshore Wind Energy: February 2023 Update." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.nrel.gov/wind/offshore-wind.html.
13. International Renewable Energy Agency, "Status of Renewables in the United States." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.irena.org/publications/2021/nov/status-of-renewables-in-the-united-states-2021.
14. Union of Concerned Scientists, "Transport Emissions: 2021 Fact Sheet." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/transport-emissions-2021-fact-sheet.
15. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, "Climate Change: Food Systems," 2022. Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.fao.org/climate-change/en/.
16. World Wildlife Fund, "Mangroves." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.wwf.org/habitats/mangroves.
17. American Society of Civil Engineers, "Infrastructure Report Card." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.infrastructurereportcard.org/.
18. National Wildlife Federation, "Climate Change and Education." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.nwf.org/Educators/Lesson-Plans/Climate-Change-and-Education.
19. The Nature Conservancy, "Green Cities: The Business Case for Sustainable Urban Development." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/states/maryland/places-we-work/annapolis-dc-overview/.
20. Ceres Investor Network on Climate Risk, "Impact Investing for a Climate-Conscious Future." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.ceres.org/impact-investing/climate-conscience/.
21. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, "Summary for Policymakers." Accessed January 20, 2023. https://www.ipcc.ch/report/sixth-assessment-report-working-group-III/

Rhetorical Devices and Tone

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson's focus on solutions-driven storytelling is evident in the ways she crafts her narrative. Here are some rhetorical devices and techniques she employs to create a resonant and engaging message:

• Arrangement and Repetition: Ayana repeats key phrases, such as "Find your place" and "Choose hope," to emphasize the importance of action and optimism. She also arranges her points in a logical, easy-to-follow manner to help listeners grasp the crux of her message.
• Personal Anecdotes: Ayana uses stories from her own experiences to illustrate the power of community, collaboration, and creativity in addressing climate change. By offering these anecdotes, she creates a personal connection with her audience and adds a human touch to what can sometimes feel like an overwhelming issue.
• Figure of Speech: Ayana frequently employs metaphors, similes, and personification to help her audience visualize the solutions she presents. For example, she refers to climate change as a battleground, in need of warriors; and she likens solutions to seeds being planted to grow a make-shift garden.
• Emotional Appeal: Ayana inspires her audience by appealing to their emotions, reminding them of the beauty of nature and the potential for a brighter future. She encourages hope, saying, "There is beauty in this fear, because beauty demands that we change … We have the power to do something."
• Urgency and Empowerment: Ayana emphasizes the need for immediate action, while also empowering her listeners to be agents of change. She reminds them that, "When we let go of the fear, we become warriors," suggesting that each individual has an important role to play in the climate fight.
• Inclusive and Celebratory Tone: Ayana's message is fundamentally optimistic and hopeful, and she embraces a celebratory tone. She emphasizes that the solutions she presents are inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or expertise. She also acknowledges and highlights the accomplishments of those who have already contributed to the climate solutions movement, reminding her audience that they are part of a larger, diverse community working towards a common goal.

By integrating these rhetorical devices and techniques into her storytelling, Ayana Elizabeth Johnson creates a potent and transformative message that resonates with her audience and inspires them to take action. Her solutions-driven approach offers a beacon of hope, and her empowering words serve as a call to arms for those looking to make a difference in the world.

1. As we delve deeper into the climate solution discussions, consider launching a nonprofit magazine dedicated to showcasing innovative ideas and inspiring stories from the frontlines of sustainability, art, and culture.
2. In addition to the podcast, expand your venture by producing a newsletter that offers exclusive insights, Q&As, and guest contributions from leading experts in marine biology, climate science, health-and-wellness, and environmental-science.
3. As part of your nonprofit organization, team up with activists, scientists, and journalists from various disciplines to host regular culture events, such as panel discussions, workshops, and speaker series, aimed at rallying the local community and sparking solutions-driven narratives.
4. To amplify your impact, partner with other like-minded organizations and individuals to collaborate on environmental projects that promote sustainable living, including community gardens, renewable energy initiatives, and public transportation upgrades.
5. Collaborate with local artists and designers to commission pieces that raise awareness about climate change and highlight the beauty of the natural world, starting with public murals and installations throughout the city.
6. Use the power of journalism and storytelling to shift the focus from catastrophe to collective action by producing a documentary series that focuses on everyday climate heroes from around the world and the steps they're taking to create a better future for all.
7. Encourage the local community to participate in climate-friendly projects by hosting workshops and classes on subjects like composting, recycling, and upcycling, or by organizing volunteer events focused on environmental clean-up and restoration efforts.
8. To create a long-lasting impact, establish scholarships and grants for students who are pursuingeducation in climate-related fields, with the goal of nurturing a new generation of scientists, activists, and leaders dedicated to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability.

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