CNN’s Chief Climate Correspondent Bill Weir Adapts to Climate Change

In episode 204 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Bill Weir, the Chief Climate Correspondent at CNN. Bill shares his insights into how climate change now intersects with every aspect of our lives, transforming all beats into climate beats. Drawing from his experiences covering climate stories, he emphasizes the power of storytelling. We delve into the inspiration behind his book, "Life As We Know It," which looks at positive climate stories all inspired by the birth of his son. Critiquing mainstream media's coverage of climate change, he calls for a shift towards highlighting adaptation and innovation over sensational disasters. Bill unveils his upcoming special, "Adaptation Nation," and shares the joys and challenges of interviewing icons like Paul McCartney. Bill will leave you with some practical advice on how you can bring climate communication into the important adaptation work you’re doing. Join us as we explore the interconnectedness of climate with our lives and the transformative power of storytelling in shaping our collective response to the greatest challenge of our time.

 Interview transcript and summary available here.

Topics covered:

  • Embracing the Climate Beat

  • The Human Element of Climate Stories

  • Inspiring Innovations in Climate Adaptation

  • Life Lessons Through Earth Day Letters

  • The Aftermath of the Paradise Fire

  • Challenging Assumptions in Climate Adaptation

  • The Complexities of Water Management in Arizona

  • The Media's Role in Climate Change Communication

  • The Importance of Climate Adaptation Professionals

  • Practical Insights for Adaptation Practitioners

  • Interviewing Paul McCartney

  • Recommendation: Syd Kitson, Developer of Babcock Ranch

Quotes:

 Bill Weir:

“We’re all going to be climate reporters.”

 “I'm an omnivore, but when they created a climate desk at CNN, it occurred to me that this is the beat that includes all the other beats.”

 “This is not the earth systems of your grandfather anymore. And all of these stories are connected. So oftentimes I'm, yelling at my TV set while there's some sort of a cataclysmic, something's happening somewhere that is getting national attention. And I'm just like, say it, stay the words,  say the words, climate change!”

 

Check out the America Adapts Media Kit here!

Subscribe to the America Adapts newsletter here.

Waterfront Conference hosted by the Waterfront Alliance.
May 21st, 2024, New York City

Links in this episode:
https://www.chroniclebooks.com/products/untitled-by-bill-weir
https://www.cnn.com/shows/wonder-list
https://twitter.com/BillWeirCNN?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
https://www.facebook.com/billweir/
https://www.billweirclimate.com

Donate to America Adapts

Listen to America Adapts on your favorite app here!

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter:
https://www.facebook.com/americaadapts/
@usaadapts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-parsons-america-adapts/

Donate to America Adapts

Follow on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Android

Doug Parsons and Speaking Opportunities:
If you are interested in having Doug speak at corporate and conference events, sharing his unique, expert perspective on adaptation in an entertaining and informative way, more information can be found here!

Now on Spotify!

List of Previous Guests on America Adapts

Follow/listen to podcast on Apple Podcasts.

Donate to America Adapts, we are now a tax deductible charitable organization!

Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco

Strategies to Address Climate Change Risk in Low- and Moderate-income Communities - Volume 14, Issue 1
https://www.frbsf.org/community-development/publications/community-development-investment-review/2019/october/strategies-to-address-climate-change-low-moderate-income-communities/

Podcasts in the Classroom – Discussion guides now available for the latest episode of America Adapts. These guides can be used by educators at all levels. Check them out here!

The 10 Best Sustainability Podcasts for Environmental Business Leaders
https://us.anteagroup.com/news-events/blog/10-best-sustainability-podcasts-environmental-business-leaders

The best climate change podcasts on The Climate Advisor
http://theclimateadvisor.com/the-best-climate-change-podcasts/

7 podcasts to learn more about climate change and how to fight it
https://kinder.world/articles/you/7-podcasts-to-learn-more-about-climate-change-and-how-to-fight-it-19813

Directions on how to listen to America Adapts on Amazon Alexa
https://youtu.be/949R8CRpUYU

America Adapts also has its own app for your listening pleasure!  Just visit the App store on Apple or Google Play on Android and search “America Adapts.”

Join the climate change adaptation movement by supporting America Adapts!  Please consider supporting this podcast by donating through America Adapts fiscal sponsor, the Social Good Fund. All donations are now tax deductible!

For more information on this podcast, visit the website at http://www.americaadapts.org and don't forget to subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts.  

Podcast Music produce by Richard Haitz Productions
Write a review on Apple Podcasts !
America Adapts on Facebook!  
Join the America Adapts Facebook Community Group.
Check us out, we’re also on YouTube!
Executive Producer Dr. Jesse Keenan
Subscribe to America Adapts on Apple Podcasts
Doug can be contacted at americaadapts @ g mail . com