Ecophonia

9 Episodes
Subscribe

By: Anna Griffin

You don’t want to live in a world on fire, but “Saving the World” is just too overwhelming. Ecophonia breaks down climate issues through real stories and actionable solutions. Experts, organizations, and industry leaders across food, fashion, music, and more share insights that can actually be used. Big change starts at the local level, so tune in so you can get involved in ways that actually make an impact.

Can Cheesecake Save the Planet? | Episode 9
#9
06/17/2025

In this episode of Ecophonia, I sat down with Jennifer Saltzman, founder of Jennifer Pennifer Bakes, a boutique bakery in Los Angeles known for its mini cheesecakes. However, what’s more interesting than the cheesecakes is the unwavering commitment to sustainability Jennifer has. 

Jennifer’s bakery may be small, but her impact has ripple effects. From composting and sourcing from farmers markets, to ditching plastic in favor of cardboard and bamboo, she’s built a business that proves sustainability can be baked into every step of the process (pun intended).

If you’ve ever wondered how susta...


How Religious Communities Are Saving the Planet and Their Budgets (PART 2) | Episode 8
#8
05/20/2025

In this episode of Ecophonia, I continue my conversation with Marqus Cole, the Organizing Director at Georgia Interfaith Power and Light (GIPL) (and you can check out PART 1 here). GIPL is committed to inspiring and equipping communities of faith in Georgia to tackle climate issues with practical solutions. This is PART 2 of our discussion, where we discuss the intersection of faith and environmental advocacy, exploring how faith communities can play a pivotal role in addressing climate change.

In this episode, Marqus shares insights into GIPL's advocacy efforts at both the federal and local levels, highlighting the importance...


How Religious Communities Are Saving the Planet and Their Budgets (PART 1) | Episode 7
#7
05/06/2025

In this episode of Ecophonia, I had the pleasure of speaking with Marqus Cole, the Organizing Director at Georgia Interfaith Power and Light (GIPL), an organization dedicated to inspiring and equipping communities of faith to engage with climate issues and implement practical climate solutions across Georgia. We had a wonderful and extensive conversation, so this episode is split into two parts.

In this part, discover how GIPL's initiatives are not only promoting sustainable practices but saving houses of worship substantial money that they can then use for more important work. Additionally, Marqus also discusses the critical role...


What Is Actually In Our Rivers (And Why It Matters) | Episode 6
#6
04/22/2025

In this episode of Ecophonia, I spoke with Tammy Bates, the Outings Director at Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, an organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of the Chattahoochee River, the most important water source in Georgia. Tammy discusses the challenges of river cleanups, notably the illegal dumping of tires and trash, and the importance of community involvement in maintaining healthy waterways.

Discover the significance of the annual "Sweep the Hooch" event, which mobilizes thousands of volunteers to clean up the river and its tributaries. Tammy highlights the tangible impact these cleanups have on both the environment and the...


Food Doesn’t Have To Be Complicated | Episode 5
#5
04/08/2025

Imagine a world where the food you eat isn't just about convenience or appearance, but about understanding and connection. In today's episode, we explore why many of us are disconnected from our food, the myths that cloud our perceptions, and the surprising truth about what nature offers right outside our door. From dandelions to local farmer's markets, join us as we uncover the hidden stories behind what we eat and why it's time to rethink our relationship with food.

In this episode, we dive into the world of urban farming with Katie Kissel, Co-Chair of Unearthing Farm...


How Can We Make It Easier For People To Find Sustainable Nonprofits? | Episode 4
#4
03/25/2025

Have you ever wished you could go to one place to find every organization that’s doing good things for the environment? That’s the mission of Root Local, to connect Atlantans across sectors, so they can live sustainably in all areas of their lives. 

In this episode of Ecophonia, I spoke with Lee Dalton, Executive Director, and Butch Whitfield, Cofounder of Root Local, a pioneering sustainability nonprofit based in Atlanta.

Root Local stands out by connecting various eco-conscious organizations within the city, creating a unified network to amplify their collective impact. Lee and Butch share...


Can Local Activism Spark Global Environmental Change? | Episode 3
#3
03/11/2025

Ever feel like saving the planet is like trying to surf a tidal wave of challenges? (Sorry, that was an awful pun).  You're not alone. Today, we're hitting the shores of New York City with Moe Magali, the chair of Surfrider NYC.

In this episode of Ecophonia, we dive deep into the world of coastal protection and community advocacy. Moe shares how Surfrider is transforming the way we interact with our oceans, from reducing plastic pollution to cultivating the next generation of ocean advocates. Whether it's through their innovative Ocean Friendly Restaurants program or grassroots lobbying efforts, S...


Can Arts and Crafts Help Fight Climate Change? | Episode 2
#2
02/25/2025

In this episode of Ecophonia, I sit down with Toban Nichols, the Director of Education and Development at REMAINDERS Creative Reuse, a unique nonprofit in Pasadena, California. 

Toban shares insights into how REMAINDERS functions as an arts and crafts thrift store that also serves as an educational hub and a community center. We delve into their sustainable practices, community-building efforts, and partnerships with other nonprofits. 

Discover how REMAINDERS turned a small garage operation into a thriving organization that receives and redistributes tons of creative materials, helping to keep items out of the landfill and fostering cr...


How Do We Make Complex Scientific Ideas Accessible to All? | Episode 1
#1
02/11/2025

Ever feel like saving the planet is a Herculean task? 

You're not alone. Today, I sat down with Amy Sharma and Anne Costolanski from Science for Georgia. 

In this episode of Ecophonia, we chat about how Science for Georgia is making science more than just lab coats and jargon. They're making it accessible, personable, and impactful by bridging the gap between scientists and the public. 

From climate survival trainings to breaking down scientific silos at the Environmental Justice and Climate Protection Conference, you'll learn how to jump from eco-anxiety to eco-action. 

Get...