Citizens' Climate Lobby

CCL Training: Exploring Online Energy Efficiency and Electrification Training

Join us for this training designed to introduce participants to a wide array of resources aimed at enhancing existing skills and exploring new opportunities in Energy Efficiency and Electrification. Discover career maps to help you access a variety of helpful and informative resources, including online courses, webinars, and certifications - even plan your future work options!

Skip ahead to the following section(s):
(0:00) Intro & Agenda
(2:13) Part 1: Previewing the San Diego LEARN website
(9:55) Part 2: Previewing Coursework

Webpage: https://www.sandiegolearn.com/ 
https://electrifynow.net/electrify-coalition-webinars 

CCL Podcast: Rebels or Advocates? Dana R. Fisher on the Future of Climate Change Action

Angry and Ready: Dana R. Fisher's Climate Call to Action

In this month's Citizens’ Climate Radio, host Peterson Toscano introduces listeners to the fiery and determined voice of Dana R. Fisher, a veteran in the climate change movement with nearly three decades of experience. Fisher, the author of “Saving Ourselves: From Climate Shocks to Climate Action,” delivers a searing critique of the fossil fuel industry and the ineffectiveness of incremental policy changes. This episode challenges listeners to consider the strategies needed to combat climate change and our roles in this fight.

Dana R. Fisher: The Voice of Urgency

Fisher doesn’t hold back as she reads from her latest book, calling out the covert interference of fossil fuel industries in IPCC reports and the lack of robust action from elected officials. Fisher argues that while volunteer advocacy is valuable, it’s not enough. She calls for a shift from incremental change to systemic overhauls, pushing citizens to become "troublemaking rebels" to force the hand of those in power.

"Incremental policymaking is going to be the death of us all," Fisher warns, urging the need for more aggressive and organized activism. She emphasizes that the timeline of the climate crisis is not dictated by political cycles but by the rapidly accumulating greenhouse gases in our atmosphere.

Rebels, Advocates, Helpers, and Organizers: We Need Them All

Drawing from discussions from Episode 93, Peterson revisits the four roles change-makers play: advocates, rebels, helpers, and organizers. While most Citizens’ Climate Lobby volunteers fit the advocate role, Fisher stresses the need for more rebels and organizers to amplify the pressure on decision-makers.

Fisher’s call to action is clear: systemic change requires bold, sometimes uncomfortable actions. Peterson admits to his own discomfort with disruptive demonstrations but acknowledges their necessity in the broader strategy for climate action.

"While I deeply respect the work of groups like Citizens’ Climate Lobby, it's clear that advocacy alone isn't enough. We need more rebels, more organizers, and more systemic change to truly address the climate crisis." –Dana R. Fisher.

About Dana R. Fisher

Dana R. Fisher is the Director of the Center for Environment, Community, & Equity (CECE) and a Professor in the School of International Service at American University.  Her current projects include evaluating how federal service corps programs expand their climate-related work.  Fisher is a nonresident senior fellow in the governance studies program at The Brookings Institution and the chair of the political sociology section of the American Sociological Association.  She was a Contributing Author for Working Group 3 of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Sixth Assessment Review (IPCC AR6), writing about citizen engagement and civic activism.  Her media appearances include ABC, CBS, CNN, MSNBC, PBS Newshour, and various programs on NPR, BBC, and CBC. Her words have appeared in the popular media, including the Washington Post, Slate, TIME Magazine, Politico, the Nation, and the American Prospect.  Dana earned her undergraduate degree from Princeton University and a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She has authored over eighty research papers and book chapters and has written seven books.  For more details, see www.danarfisher.com. 

Follow Dana R. Fisher on TikTok, X, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, and LinkedIn.

Good News: Bipartisan Success on Energy Permitting Reform

"The Energy Permitting Reform Act stands out as a beacon of cooperation in a divided political climate, offering real hope that we can accelerate the transition to a cleaner energy future." –Peterson Toscano

Peterson shares a rare piece of bipartisan good news. The U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources has advanced the Energy Permitting Reform Act with overwhelming support. This bill, which aims to streamline the permitting process for green energy projects, marks a significant step forward in building a sustainable energy infrastructure in the United States. The bipartisan nature of this success serves as a hopeful reminder that cooperation is still possible in the fight against climate change.

Learn more about Permitting Reform.

Why Climate? Featuring Dalton Jackson

In this episode’s Why Climate? segment, Dalton Jackson, a college senior from rural Indiana who is working on conservative outreach with Citizens’ Climate Lobby, shares how growing up on a farm and learning about engines sparked his interest in climate change, particularly the importance of transitioning to sustainable energy sources.

"Just because someone is conservative doesn’t mean they don’t care about climate change. It’s about showing them the benefits—economic and beyond." –Dalton Jackson.

Dalton emphasizes that convincing conservatives to engage in climate action often requires focusing on the economic benefits rather than solely the environmental impacts. He believes that more conservatives can be brought into the climate conversation by highlighting the cost savings and economic opportunities of clean energy. Dalton’s story is a powerful reminder that climate action can resonate across political divides when framed in terms of different values and priorities.

Learn more about CCL Conservative at CCLUSA.org/Conservatives.

Youth Corner: The Climate GOAT Campaign

In this episode’s CCL Youth Corner, Veda Ganesan introduces the Climate GOAT Campaign, a youth-driven initiative to make climate action a voting priority. The campaign focuses on relational organizing and deep canvassing, encouraging young people to engage their communities in meaningful conversations about the climate crisis.

"It's time for the leaders of the next generation to step up. Are you ready to use your voice to get climate action on the ballot?" –Veda Ganesan.

Learn more about CCL Youth and the GOAT Campaign at CCLUSA.org/Youth

Resilience Corner: Self-Care in Climate Work

"I know what I need to do for self-care, but so often, I ignore that inner voice. It’s a constant battle between pushing through and taking the break I desperately need." –Tamara Staton.

Tamara Staton returns with the Resilience Corner, reflecting on the challenges of integrating self-care into climate activism. Staton discusses the internal conflicts many climate activists face when prioritizing personal well-being and offers strategies for maintaining resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Find out more about building resilience in your climate change work by visiting CCLUSA.org/resilience. 

Looking Ahead: Hot Mess - A True Crime Climate Mini-Series

You will hear about Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned into Political Chaos, a new five-part mini-series exploring the rise and fall of bipartisan climate action in the U.S. This series promises to uncover the twists, turns, and missed opportunities in American climate politics, featuring insights from notable figures like former U.S. Representative Bob Inglis and Chelsea Henderson, host of RepubicEn’s EcoRight Speaks podcast. She is also the author of Glacial: The Inside Story of Climate Politics. Plu, Katie Zakrzewski from Green Tea Party Radio, who appeared on Episode 89 of Citizens Climate Radio, will join the conversation. 

Hot Mess: How Climate Consensus Turned into Political Chaos will appear in the same podcast feed as Citizens Climate Radio and premiere in October 2024. 

Take the Next Step: Get Involved

Feeling inspired by what you heard in this episode? The next step is to take action. Whether you're passionate about advocacy and organizing or simply want to learn more about how you can contribute to the climate movement, there's a place for you. Join thousands of others who are making a difference.

• For general actions and campaigns, Visit www.cclusa.org/action to explore current campaigns, find practical steps you can take today, and become part of a growing community committed to creating a sustainable future.
• For college students: Check out cclusa.org/highered to discover opportunities for engagement and leadership in climate action on your campus.
• For middle and high school students: Visit cclusa.org/youth to get involved in youth-led initiatives and make your voice heard on climate issues.

Listener Survey

We want to hear your feedback about this episode. Please fill out our short survey. 

Join the Conversation

Engage with other listeners and share your thoughts on our social media channels. Follow and connect with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok.

We Want to Hear from You

• Email: radio @ citizensclimate.org
• Text/Voicemail: 619-512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA.)

Production Team:

• Written and produced by Peterson Toscano, Veda Genesan, and Tamara Staton.
• Technical Support: Ricky Bradley and Brett Cease
• Social Media Assistance: Flannery Winchester

Music is provided by epidemicsound.com

Read the Transcript and full show notes at CCLUSA.org/radio

 

CCL Training: Electrifying Your Home - Ask Me Anything

Have you wanted to install a heat pump or other clean energy appliances utilizing the Inflation Reduction Act and just didn't know where to get started? Join this Electrifying Your Home - Ask Me Anything to find out from homeowners from throughout the United States in a variety of climate zones and variety of backgrounds that have already done the work and want to answer your questions! CCL's Sr. Director of Communications Flannery Winchester will moderate a panel of CCL electrified homeowners who start by sharing their own experiences with each project they've installed and then open it up to the audience for a great discussion.

CCL’s Electrification Campaign: https://cclusa.org/its-electric  
Electrification Action Team: https://community.citizensclimate.org/groups/home/974  
Home Electrification and Efficiency Opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/528  
Rewiring America Calculator: https://cclusa.org/ira-calc  
Log Your Training: https://community.citizensclimate.org/log_training?sf_id=a5yUP00000034K1YAI 

Aimee Witteman w/ Rewiring America | August 2024 Monthly Speaker | Citizens Climate Lobby

August's Speaker was Aimee Witteman, Rewiring America VP of Investment. Witteman is the former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of Energy, former Energy Foundation Vice President for States & Regions, former Director of U.S. States Policy at the Climate Imperative Foundation, and spent a decade at the McKnight Foundation designing and leading their climate grantmaking program aimed at decarbonizing the Midwest economy and embedding democratic participation and racial equity into the Foundation’s climate portfolio. Earlier this year, Witteman led the launch of Invest in Our Future, with $180 million in philanthropic pledges over three years, to leverage the more than $1 trillion in recently-enacted federal funds to tackle the climate crisis and make the American economy stronger, cleaner, and more equitable.

Skip ahead to the following section(s):
(0:00) Intro & Recent Highlights
(17:08) Aimee Witteman w/ Rewiring America
(38:30) Q&A Discussion
(42:30) CCL's August Actions Review

August Action Sheet: https://cclusa.org/actionsheet 
Pre-Call Video:   https://vimeo.com/996798212 
Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/august-monthly-call-slides 
Electrification Campaign: https://cclusa.org/its-electric 
Rewiring America Calculator https://cclusa.org/ira-calc 
Log Your Attendance:  https://cclusa.org/log-meeting 

CCL Training: Hosting A Front Porch Ribbon Cutting

In and around the second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) this month of August, Rewiring America and Citizens’ Climate Lobby are teaming up to organize Front Porch Ribbon Cuttings! What’s a Front Porch Ribbon Cutting? It's a fun event designed to showcase the impact of the IRA by treating homeowners who've installed clean electric machines with the same pomp and circumstance as a big, new manufacturing facility might get upon opening. We want to cut a ribbon in front of heat pumps, EVs, induction stoves, and heat pump water heaters that have been installed across the country thanks to the IRA.

Skip ahead to the following section(s):
(0:00) Intro & Agenda
(3:35) Welcome & Background
(4:56) Sample Toolkit
(16:48) Press Release Walkthrough
(22:28) Summary

Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/front-porch-ribbon-cutting   
Press Release Template: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/359 
Front Porch Ribbon Cutting Planning Toolkit (copy): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bqBY74_gZAXr3YHcsruD7IdZ6pdBJ4FcTgoWBJAG1l0/copy  

Click to log your training: https://community.citizensclimate.org/log_training?sf_id=a5yUP00000030I1YAI

CCL Training: Home Electrification and Efficiency Opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act

Join CCL's Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli for a training that reviews why building electrification is important, updates on the incentives available to homeowners through the Inflation Reduction Act, the benefits of each technology, and details regarding the applicable tax credits and rebates.  Electrifying our homes and other buildings is a win-win-win.  We can reduce our monthly energy bills by switching to more efficient electric technologies.  We can improve our families’ health by reducing the amount of fossil fuels we’re burning in our homes and the associated air pollution they create.  And of course doing so will also reduce climate pollution and thus slow global warming.

Skip ahead to the following section(s):
(0:00) Intro & Agenda
(3:53) Why Go Electric?
(12:15) Diving Into Home Benefits
(28:27) Electric Vehicles
(34:45) Solar, Batteries and other updates

Electrification Campaign Month: https://cclusa.org/its-electric 
Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/ira-homeowner-slides 
Training Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/528 

CCL Training: CCL's Electrification Campaign Overview

Join CCL's VP of Programs Brett Cease for an overview of CCL's Electrification Campaign we're gearing up for the whole month of August. Brett will overview the campaign goals, support resources, and materials CCL has created to help facilitate thousands of conversations. Throughout August CCL is talking to people in communities across the country about electrifying their homes. Why? Because we want everyone to know there are cutting edge clean energy options available right now — and there are ways to save money on them, too.

Skip ahead to the following section(s):
(0:00) Intro & Agenda
(2:09) Background
(5:46) Conversation Starters
(13:33) What Resources Are There?
(26:32) Additional Support

Presentation Slides: https://clusa.org/electrification-campaign-slides  
Campaign Page: https://community.citizensclimate.org/electrification-month 

CCL Podcast: Crafting Compelling Personal Climate Change Stories

In this month’s Citizens’ Climate Radio episode, host Peterson Toscano and the CCR teams introduce a fresh approach to climate change storytelling by exploring personal stories as metaphors. While these stories are not explicitly about climate change, they reveal truths and perspectives that resonate with our climate work. Join us to discover how personal narratives can enhance and diversify our stories about climate change. You will also learn expert storytelling tips to apply when telling stories about climate change. 

For a full transcript and more, visit www.cclusa.org/radio

 

Using Personal Stories as Metaphors

Peterson challenges us to use personal stories, which hold significant meaning and energy for us, as metaphors for climate change. These stories, often about transitions, conflicts, or breakthroughs in our lives, can draw powerful parallels to our climate efforts. You'll hear two compelling stories from the Citizens' Climate Radio team members Erica Valdez and Horace Mo, each reflecting personal growth and resilience.

Horace's Story: A Journey of Friendship and Belonging

Horace Mo shares his experience of moving from China to the USA as a 16-year-old. Navigating a new culture and language, Horace found support and friendship in his roommate Kai, who helped him overcome language barriers and cultural differences. This story of adaptation and support mirrors the collective effort needed in climate work, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual aid. Horace reflects, "My English ability soared like a rocket with the help of Kai and other students at school. For the first time, I sensed a personal belonging to the school community."

Erica's Story: Confronting Hidden Challenges

Erica Valdez recounts her high school friend Sophia's (not her real name) struggles with college applications due to her parents' undocumented status. Erica's story highlights the hidden challenges marginalized communities face, drawing a parallel to the often-overlooked impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations. It emphasizes the need for empathy and support in both personal and climate-related contexts. Erica notes, "Witnessing her stress made me ask, how many people are going through something similar?"

Making Climate Connections

Peterson tells a story about a toxic, abusive relationship and reveals how this personal relationship mirrors society’s relationship with fossil fuels. He also encourages listeners to see the climate connections in Horace's and Erica's stories. Both narratives reflect themes of fear, support, and overcoming obstacles—common experiences in the climate movement. We can create more relatable and engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences by relating personal stories to climate issues. Peterson emphasizes, 

We need stories that reveal the power of climate change solutions. We need stories that unveil the driving force behind our efforts in addressing climate change. We need stories that unveil the driving force behind our efforts in addressing climate change. Stores that unearth how climate change affects some people differently than others. Stories that will inspire us to keep going.

Nerd Corner: The Economic Impact of Climate Change

In the Nerd Corner, Citizens’ Climate Research Coordinator Dana Nuccitelli discusses the economic impacts of climate change. Using lizards as an analogy, Dana explains how extreme weather events and shifting climates can stunt economic growth, emphasizing the urgent need for swift climate action to mitigate these effects. Dana states, "Most economists agree the faster we act on climate change, the better it will be for the economy. That's especially true if we use a market-based solution like putting a price on carbon pollution. That way, we can see the true price of products, including their climate costs, like a chameleon turning off its camouflage."

Why Climate? Featuring James Earl Hollywood III

In the new segment, Why Climate?, volunteer James Earl Hollywood III shares his motivation for climate action. A father of nine from Maryland, James highlights how environmental degradation disproportionately affects marginalized communities and underscores the importance of inclusive and collaborative climate solutions. James shares, "Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it's a human rights issue that affects every aspect of my life." 

About James

James Earl Hollywood III is a dedicated husband, father of nine, minister, and author with a profound commitment to social change and community empowerment. Currently pursuing a doctorate in Social Leadership. James combines his extensive academic background—including degrees in Criminology, Public Administration, Communications, and Implementation Science—with his passion for advocacy and leadership. He has been actively involved with organizations such as the Citizens' Climate Lobby, Americans for Prosperity, and various advisory groups, leveraging his expertise to drive meaningful change. Known for his dynamic leadership and ability to inspire others, James continues to make a positive impact through his work, striving to create a better, more equitable future for all.

If you want to share with us why you work on climate change, let us know. Contact details below. 

Good News: CCL's Successful Climate Conversations Campaign

Tamara Staton, CCL’s Education and Resilience Coordinator, reports on the success of CCL’s recent campaign, which sparked over 27,000 climate conversations across all 50 states. This grassroots effort demonstrates the power of personal engagement in driving climate action and raising awareness. Tamara concludes, "Each conversation is a step towards greater awareness and collective action." Read more about how CCL volunteers are breaking the silence around climate change. Find out about other actions and monthly campaigns by visiting CCLUSA.org/action.  

Stay Connected and Share Your Story

Peterson invites listeners to share their personal stories and how they connect to climate change. Whether through social media, public speaking, or personal conversations, sharing these narratives can inspire and motivate others in the climate movement. Consider submitting your story to Citizens Climate Radio. See contact details below. 

Listener Survey

We want to hear your feedback about this episode. Please fill out our short survey. 

Join the Conversation

Engage with other listeners and share your thoughts on our social media channels. Follow and connect with us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok.

Tune in next month for more inspiring stories, expert insights, and actionable climate solutions. Together, we can make a difference, one story at a time.

We Want to Hear from You

• Email: radio @ citizensclimate.org
• Text/Voicemail: 619-512-9646 (+1 if calling from outside the USA.)

Shoutouts to the following people and groups for the ways they promote us through social media: On X (FKA Twitter): Michael Cooper, the Arkansas chapter of CCl, Frances Stewart, M.D, Robert D. Evans, Bill Nash, Jane Haigh, 1.5, CCL Alameda, CCL Bellevue, Washington, and Jean Lloyd Larson. On TikTok:  Linda Jay Reed, JackAsh007, Jan Cleveringa, Climate Countdown, The Green Journey, and Dr. Dana R. Fisher. 

Next Month

Dr. Dana R. Fisher wrote Saving Ourselves: From Climate Shocks to Climate Action. She will tell us about her book and read from it. We will also include students from Bucknell University who created soundscapes of how they feel about climate change. Plus, there are new installments of the CCL Youth Corner, the Resilience Corner, and our latest feature, Why Climate? 

Production Team:

• Written and produced by Peterson Toscano, Horace Mo, Erica Valdez, Dana Nuccitelli, and Tamara Staton.
• Technical Support: Ricky Bradley and Brett Cease
• Social Media Assistance: Flannery Winchester

Music is provided by epidemicsound.com

 

CCL Training: Transformational Organizing Guide

In CCL, we transform what people think possible for Congress to do on climate, and in the process transform what people think possible for themselves to accomplish. Regardless of the motivation or skills a person brings when they join CCL, we succeed when we help them take the next step as part of our movement: Because empowered volunteers help us reach our big organizational goals. CCL's VP of Programs Brett Cease and Alabama group leader Debbie Chang will host a training that walks volunteers through the Transformational Organizing guide and describe its five pillars to help us strengthen our leadership development and capacity throughout the organization.

Presentation Slides: https://cclusa.org/transformational-organizing-slides 
CCL Resource Page & Guide: https://community.citizensclimate.org/resources/item/19/222  

Skip ahead to the following section(s):
(0:00) Intro & Agenda
(6:18) 1st Pillar: The Pyramid of Engagement
(11:19) 2nd Pillar: The CCL Way
(21:13) 3rd Pillar: The Conditions that Motivate 
(30:39) 4th Pillar: The Elimination of Blame
(37:51) 5th Pillar: The Empowerment of Volunteers

Ben Pendergrass, CCL VP of Government Affairs | July 2024 Monthly Speaker | Citizens Climate Lobby

Ben Pendergrass, CCL's Vice President of Government Affairs, celebrates our national summer conference and our 442 June 11th lobby meetings, gives us a legislative update, and reviews the impact of your June phone calls about the PROVE IT Act.

Skip ahead to the following section(s):
(0:00) Intro & Highlights
(6:32) Conversation with CCL Alum Hill Staffers Morgan and Kesten
(18:53) Q&A Discussion
(36:10) CCL's July Actions Review

July Action Sheet: https://cclusa.org/actionsheet 
Pre-Call Video:  https://vimeo.com/983273670?share=copy