SSDN‘s Green Minds

Climate change is often described as a generational issue, but is age really what shapes how people think about climate action? The reality is more nuanced, especially in a time of deep polarization. On this episode, leading climate scientist and climate communications expert Dr. Katharine Hayhoe join podcast host and Senior Sustainability Strategist for the City of Raleigh, N.C., Jessica Reid, to discuss how we can connect climate change to people's values and help them take action.  

 

The conversation also examines a challenge that is especially relevant across the American South: how climate discussions intersect with rapid growth, community identity, and differing visions for the future. 
 

Whether you work in local government or are interested in the future of your community, this episode offers practical insights for fostering productive conversations across generations and finding common ground in a changing world.

Dr. Shaleen Miller talks with Cameron Gonzalez, Grounds Maintenance Supervisor, and Kimberly Conley, Sustainability Coordinator, with the Town of Morrisville, NC, about the real-world transition to electric vegetation management equipment.
 
Hear what they have learned about costs, battery life, charging, crew performance, staff buy-in, and quieter day-to-day operations.
 
#sustainability #SSDN #SoutheastUS

Join host Diego J. Cancel from Coral Gables, Florida, as he interviews several of our SSDN members and leadership at the 2026 Annual Meeting. Interviewees share the important things they learned and what they are taking home with them.

Celebrate Mobility Month this May as host Mika Gadsden, Director of Sustainability for Charleston, South Carolina, interviews Executive Director Katie Zimmerman and Director of Programming Savannah Brennan with Charleston Moves about local mobility efforts. #biking #charlestonmoves

This Earth Month, we explore the connection between sustainability work and mental health. Host Jessica Reid is joined by two guests bringing complementary perspectives. Ashley Stokes, who currently works for the Seminole Tribe of Florida and is the creator of the documentary Good Natured, discusses the role of storytelling in helping people process climate emotions and move toward action. Sarah Sterzing of Keep Norfolk Beautiful shares how her background in social work informs a trauma-informed approach to sustainability. 

Together, this conversation offers practical insights and reflections for those working in climate and sustainability, especially those navigating the emotional weight of the work. 

Watch Good Natured 

Check out this article that some of our SSDN members enjoyed, inspiring this episode.