Climate Change and Happiness
Climate Change and Happiness
Thomas Doherty, Panu Pihkala
We give language to what you feel about the climate crisis—and also what you might want to feel, feelings you can grow and cultivate. This supports your resilience and your mental health and wellbeing. We invite other experts to join us in our conversations, and we hope you can join us too.
Season 5, Episode 22: “The Body Keeps the Storm” with Clayton Aldern
Climate change is not just happening around us, but also inside of us. Thomas and Panu join journalist Clay Aldern who explains how heat, storms, and other climate shocks can shape our minds and bodies in surprising ways. Their talk focused on climate trauma, eco-anxiety, and epigenetics — the idea that stress can leave marks on our biology and may even affect future generations. As Clay noted, “The climate’s always kind of reaching in and adding a little more weight.” This captures the episode’s core message: the environment is not distant; it is part of us. This episode is very relevant for anyone trying to make sense of climate stress about summer heat.
Jul 6
35 min
Season 5, Episode 21: “Earth From Above” – The Psychology of Seeing Our Planet From Higher Perspectives
Thomas and Panu unpacked the emotional and psychological effects we experience when we have an opportunity to see our planet and lands from on high. Artificial borders disappear and natural and human systems and patterns are revealed. Artists, explorers, and land and species protectors have long used visions of “Earth from Above” to raise our awareness and consciousness, and you can expand your own vision too.
Jun 25
31 sec
Season 5, Episode 20: A View From Wales with Marc Williams
Thomas had a great conversation with Marc Williams, a Welsh-speaking psychologist from Cardiff University, and one of few psychologists who, like Thomas, blends clinical and environmental psychology. Marc talked about his formative experiences growing up in West Wales and his recent research on environmental identity and evidence-based therapy for climate distress.
Jun 9
38 min
Season 5, Episode 19: On A Career in Climate Wayfinding: With Katharine Wilkinson
Join Thomas and Panu to listen in on their great  conversation with Katharine Wilkinson who reflected on her career as a woman working in climate science and policy, and how she reached back to her roots with her latest book and program Climate Wayfinding. “Sometimes I think the paradox of calling is that we have certainty and uncertainty in the same breath.” — Katharine Wilkinson, from the episode
May 22
31 min
Season 5, Episode 18: Supporting Wildlife and Conservation Professionals with John Fraser
Thomas and Panu had a stimulating and wide ranging conversation with John Fraser who reflected on his career as an architect, zoo and museum designer, pioneer in conservation psychology, and creator of innovative nonprofit knowledge and conservation groups. We focused on practical ways to support wildlife and conservation professionals amidst the emotional toll of their globally important work. John also spoke about how social cohesion and community bonds build resilience in small towns like his home in Seward, Alaska.
May 10
33 min
Season 5, Episode 17: The Surprising History of the First Earth Day (and What It Means for You Today)
Thomas and Panu unravel the powerful stories behind the birth of the first Earth Day—how a simple idea, driven by US citizens from diverse backgrounds, transcended partisanship and grew into a movement with billions of supporters worldwide. You’ll learn some of the mythological and cultural symbolism that makes Earth Day—and the recent Artemis II moon mission—resonate deeply across traditions and generations. You’ll also find practical ways to reclaim Earth Day, celebrating not just ecological awareness, but our own personal connection to nature and our collective future.
Apr 22
31 min
Season 5, Episode 16: New Researcher Spotlight—Britta Eklöf on the Challenges of Activism and Staying Involved
Ever wondered why some people burn out or quit activism despite caring deeply? Panu and Thomas spoke with Swedish Ph.D. researcher Britta Eklöf who explored this question. Many long-term activists face barriers like social disconnection, exhaustion, and doubts about their impact. Britta’s research shows these obstacles are interconnected, and that small changes can make a huge difference. Creating social support, clear roles, and space for emotions can boost resilience and keep activists involved. It’s not just about fighting for solutions, it’s about sustaining ourselves while doing it. Join us for the conversation.
Apr 10
31 min
Season 5, Episode 15: A Journey around the Planet (Without Flying) With Thor Pedersen
Thor Pedersen embarked on a decade-long journey, traveling to every country without flying, redefining the limits of Earth-based travel. Join us to learn about the logistics and lessons of Thor’s global trek, revealing how resilience and cultural understanding transformed his mission into a powerful message about climate change and hope.
Mar 27
33 min
Season 5, Episode 14: Art Therapy for Climate Resilience with Mor Keshet
Thomas and Panu explored the intersection of art, creativity, and environmental psychology with art therapist Mor Keshet. Join us to discover practical art activities like mandalas and collage that help process climate emotions and foster identity and resilience.
Mar 13
34 min
Season 5, Episode 13: Fostering “Good Mind”: Teaching for Climate Change with Maria Vamvalis
Maria Vamalis designs learning environments that strengthen collective well-being that help people rediscover their capacity to act together in conditions of uncertainty, through promoting critical thinking and relationship skills. Hear her inspiring conversation with Panu & Thomas.
Feb 27
35 min
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