Protests and social movements are often seen as spontaneous eruptions of public sentiment. What drives people to take to the streets? What motivates them to take their anger and frustration offline, out in the open?

In this insightful conversation with sociologist Dana Fisher, we explore the motivations behind collective action, especially in today's political climate of rising authoritarianism under the Trump administration.

Dr. Fisher, a leading voice in climate sociology, examines how various social issues intersect, particularly how the current political environment has galvanized protests surrounding climate change, civil rights, and the decimation of federal services.

Fisher's extensive fieldwork provides a nuanced understanding of how communities respond to crises. Her books and articles provide a roadmap for how individuals can contribute to meaningful change from the ground up, within their communities. She argues it is up to us, not outside forces, to shape our desired future. But we have to participate. "There are no free riders."

Fisher shares her latest research and insights into the motivations of protesters, drawing parallels between the current resistance movements and historical precedents. Climate change, she argues, is not just a standalone issue but is intertwined with broader struggles for justice and equality.

Social movements can coalesce around shared grievances, revealing that while climate may not always be the primary motivation for protestors, it is nevertheless a significant part of a larger narrative of resistance. As Fisher articulates, understanding these connections is crucial for fostering solidarity among diverse activist groups, and she encourages listeners to engage deeply with their communities to effect change.

Books by Dana Fisher

• Buy Saving Ourselves at this link and get 20% off with the code #COP20.
• Use the same code for 20% off on American Resistance

TED Talk

• How to Be an Apocalyptic Optimist

How do we find our footing and protect our peace of mind in a world that often feels overwhelming, where fear and uncertainty seem to be the new normal?

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, host Tom Schueneman opens up about his own “days of fear and loathing,” sharing his journey through a period of profound depression. He bravely navigates the distinction between everyday “blues” and the isolating grip of clinical depression, offering not prescriptive advice, but a heartfelt account of what helped him find a glimmer of hope and a path back to himself.

If you’ve ever felt the weight of the world or the quiet whisper that nothing matters, this episode is a comforting hand that reminds you that you’re not alone and that healing is possible.

Navigating Today’s “Challenging Times”: A candid look at the societal pressures – from climate change to political upheaval – that can impact our mental well-being.

The Blues vs. Depression: Understanding the critical difference between life’s natural melancholies and the debilitating, one-dimensional experience of clinical depression.

Breaking the Stigma: Addressing the societal hurdles, especially for men, in acknowledging and seeking help for mental health struggles.

A Personal Descent: Tom shares his raw experience with depression in 2014, describing it as a “black hole” and a form of “psychological or emotional suicide,” echoing Camus.

The Turning Point – Nature’s Embrace: An impactful moment of finding solace during a simple walk in San Francisco’s Aquatic Park, where “anxiety’s knife-edge eased.”

The Power of Green Space: How daily contact with nature became a crucial, self-prescribed balm, more potent than any pill.

Opening Up to Therapy: The journey of starting cognitive behavioral and talk therapy, the vulnerability it requires, and the profound connection that can foster healing.

Finding Hope and Moving Forward: Tom’s path to recovery and the lasting practices, like daily walks, help him maintain his mental well-being.

A Call for Self-Compassion and Courage: An inspiring message to nurture our mental health, find courage amidst fear, and approach the world with compassion.

Tom Schueneman: With a thoughtful and introspective voice behind the microphone, Tom openly shares his personal experiences to connect with listeners on a human level. In this episode, he steps into the role of a fellow traveler, offering his story as a beacon of understanding and hope in navigating mental health.

Suicide and Crisis Hotline: Text of Call 988

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), Mon–Fri, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. ET

• “The Myth of Sisyphus” by Albert Camus: Referenced in describing the philosophical weight of depression.
• John Muir: His

Green amendments are emerging as an effective and essential tool in the quest for environmental justice, ensuring that citizens have the constitutional right to a healthy environment, which is intricately linked to their rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

In our conversation with Maya Van Rossem, the founder of Green Amendments for the Generations, we discuss how these amendments provide the necessary legal framework to protect our natural resources from industrial harm and pollution, safeguarding both current and future generations.

With 19 states already taking steps towards drafting such amendments, we explore the tangible benefits experienced by states like Montana, New York, and Pennsylvania, where citizens enjoy cleaner air, water, and healthier communities. The discussion also highlights the ongoing challenges, including opposition from industries that benefit from environmental degradation, and how grassroots movements can effectively overcome these hurdles.

Exploring the strategic roadmap for achieving widespread adoption of Green Amendments across the United States, Van Rossem outlines the tactical approach of building momentum at the state level before advancing towards a federal amendment.

The movement aims to create a robust foundation for a national constitutional amendment that acknowledges and protects environmental rights by fostering awareness and support within individual states. We explore the diverse pathways through which citizens can advocate for Green Amendments, from legislative proposals to citizen initiatives, emphasizing the importance of grassroots involvement.

Join us as we unpack the bold vision behind the Green Amendment movement and its potential to transform environmental rights into enforceable legal standards nationwide.

• The concept of Green Amendments emphasizes the need for constitutional rights to a healthy environment alongside life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
• As of now, 19 states have proposed Green Amendment initiatives, with notable successes in Montana, New York, and Pennsylvania.
• Green Amendments empower citizens to challenge environmental harm and demand accountability from government officials and corporations alike.
• The recent Held v. Montana case showcases the power of Green Amendments in protecting environmental rights against legislative negligence.
• Green Amendments are not just about current generations; they also ensure the protection of natural resources for future generations.
• Advocacy for Green Amendments is a grassroots movement, urging individuals to take action in states lacking such protections.

Links referenced in this episode:

• globalwarmingisreal.com
• cagreenamendment.org
• greenamendment.org