215: Inside the News Cycle: Comedy, Policy, and Real-World Climate Choices with Bill Kessler

In this week’s episode of  A Climate Change, host Matt Mattern welcomes comedian and writer Bill Kessler for a spirited, no-filter take on the intersection of climate politics, policy, and everyday life. Blending wit with insight, they dissect the week’s environmental headlines, from viral AI spectacles to the deeper economic and moral choices shaping our planet’s future.   Matt and Bill unpack the $700 million clean energy project cancellations, exploring what that means for America’s battery manufacturing, job creation, and energy independence. They examine the lawsuits around Cancer Alley, where weakened EPA air pollution standards are hitting vulnerable communities hardest, and talk about the human cost behind those policy shifts.   From public transport funding shortfalls to the environmental price of ultra-processed foods, the conversation connects personal choices with systemic change and lands on practical optimism. Bill’s closing thought? Go buy a two-year-old electric vehicle; it’s smart economics and smart for the planet.   It’s a grounded, funny, and thought-provoking exchange that reminds us that humour and hope still belong in the climate conversation.   Want to boast to your friends about trees named after you? Help us plant 30k trees? Only a few trees left! Visit aclimatechange.com/trees to learn more. Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts. Watch the full conversation:  https://www.youtube.com/@aclimatechange/?sub_confirmation=1   Bill Kessler Bio Bill Kessler is a seasoned comedian, writer, and producer known for his sharp observational humour and cultural commentary. His television credits include Hollywood Squares and Funny You Should Ask, where his quick wit and smart satire earned him recognition for blending comedy with social insight. With a career spanning stand-up, television, and content development, Kessler’s work reflects a distinctive ability to dissect everyday absurdities with intelligence and humour, making him a respected voice in contemporary American comedy.   Episode Resources Bill Kessler on LinkedIn  Matt Matern on LinkedIn A Climate Change on Apple A Climate Change on Spotify A Climate Change on YouTube    More About A Climate Change with Matt Matern A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights. The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives. More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action. The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.   Curated List of Episodes If you enjoyed this episode of A Climate Change, here is a list of some recent episodes curated especially for you: Simulating the Future: How Climate Models Shape Policy Decisions with Andrew Jones [Link] How Personal Change Sparks Global Impact: Joshua Spodek's Sustainability Secrets [Link] Bill McKibben on Renewable Energy, Political Battles & Hope for the Planet [Link]