99. The New Face of Climate Denial - Why Your Voice Matters More Than Ever
A new climate change denial is spreading, and we need to talk about it.
Climate denial hasn’t gone away — it’s just changed, and the newest form questions solutions, not science. Outdated myths like “climate change isn’t real” are being replaced by more persuasive narratives: that EVs are worse than gas cars, that wind power is dangerous, that governments are using climate as a tool for control.
In this episode, I sit down with journalist Samantha Harrington of Yale Climate Connections to unpack the rise of “solutions denial,” a subtle yet dangerous shift in climate misinformation. From right-wing influencers to mainstream podcast hosts, misleading narratives about clean energy, EVs, and climate policy are making their way into millions of homes. Discover what’s fueling this trend, how misinformation spreads online, and why talking about climate change — honestly and often — might be the most powerful thing we can do right now.
But this isn’t just a warning. It’s also a call to action — to talk about climate change more often, more clearly, and with the grounded optimism we need right now.
Let’s dive in!
“The vast majority of people want climate action. They just don’t realize they’re in the majority.”
Episode Highlights:
A new kind of climate denial is on the rise — shifting from denying science to denying solutions like clean energy and electric vehicles.
Journalist Samantha Harrington breaks down the data from recent reports showing that 8 out of the top 10 online shows are spreading climate misinformation.
The role of marketing and money in shaping public opinion — and how climate truth-tellers are being outspent.
Why talking about climate change matters — and how even casual conversations can shift perception and power.
The psychology behind denial and avoidance — including the desire to stay comfortable and avoid change.
Actionable ways to show up — from local community involvement to sharing stories that inspire hope and clarity.
The truth about public opinion — nearly 89% of people want climate action, but many think they’re alone.
Other Things Mentioned:
The original article that sparked this conversation: Eight of the top 10 online shows are spreading climate misinformation
“People aren’t necessarily seeking out climate denial, but they’re absorbing it through shows they trust — and that’s what makes it so dangerous.”
About Our Guest
Samantha is the Director of Audience Experience at Yale Climate Connections, where she's been reporting and designing climate stories since 2016. A journalist and graphic designer with a degree in Journalism and Arab Cultures, she brings a digital-media and entrepreneurial background—including founding the roving newsroom Driven Media—to her work.
Originally from the Midwest, Samantha focuses on how climate change impacts people, ecosystems, and communities across the U.S Before her role at Yale, she managed global communities at ISeeChange (2018–2022) and contributed to Women@Forbes. Her international project work spans designing educational materials in Jordan and Lebanon, studying STEM opportunities for Jordanian women, and reporting from Malawi and Morocco.
