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Unearthing Optimism

Arbor Day Foundation
Unearthing Optimism
Latest episode

10 episodes

  • Unearthing Optimism

    Hope In the Headlines with Peter Prengaman

    09/21/2026 | 32 mins.
    In this episode of Unearthing Optimism, host Dan Lambe welcomes Peter Prengaman, Global Climate and Environmental News Director at the Associated Press. The AP is a not-for-profit news agency and is one of the oldest, largest, and most respected outlets in the world. Over the course of his career, Peter has reported from more than 15 countries across the world. Now, he and his team are bringing global environmental challenges into sharper focus for millions of readers.

    From reporting in the Amazon to covering hurricanes and oil spills, Peter shares how  environmental journalism can help inform a new understanding of people and the planet. Learn why he views climate change as a deeply human story and what he values about highlighting hope in the AP’s coverage. 

    Tune in now.

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    Presented by the Arbor Day Foundation
    www.ArborDay.org

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
  • Unearthing Optimism

    Finding Hope In the Wild with Dylan Efron

    08/17/2026 | 35 mins.
    Adventure can be more than a thrill—it can also be  a path to purpose.

    In this episode of Unearthing Optimism, host Dan Lambe welcomes producer and outdoor adventurer Dylan Efron for a candid conversation about finding hope in nature and the lessons learned from a life outside the box. From the rivers of California to the rainforests of the Amazon and the coral reefs of Fiji, Dylan Efron shares how immersive outdoor experiences can be transformative. He also reflects on  why connecting to the natural world is one of the best ways to nurture our mental health and build optimism for the future. 

    Whether you’re eager for your next adventure or looking for hope in the face of climate anxiety, this episode will inspire you to step outside, get involved, and plant seeds of change.

    Don’t miss this uplifting journey, tune in now!

    Follow Us

    Facebook @ArborDay

    Instagram @ArborDayFoundation

    LinkedIn @Arbor Day Foundation

    Presented by the Arbor Day Foundation
    www.ArborDay.org

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
  • Unearthing Optimism

    Navigating Nature & The Internet with Hank Green

    07/20/2026 | 36 mins.
    In this episode of Unearthing Optimism, host Dan Lambe welcomes science communicator and content creator Hank Green for an energizing conversation about the power of curiosity, community, and sustainability. Together, they explore the significance of the Internet in the environmental movement and what meaningful engagement can look like. 

    Hank also shares the story behind Good Store, a values-driven marketplace turning everyday purchases into global impact. Plus, he talks through the massive educational reach of Crash Course.

    Listen now and share with a friend—because hope grows when we all get involved.

    Follow Us

    Facebook @ArborDay

    Instagram @ArborDayFoundation

    LinkedIn @Arbor Day Foundation

    Presented by the Arbor Day Foundation
    www.ArborDay.org

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
  • Unearthing Optimism

    Building Greener Cities and Cooler Communities with Dr. Vivek Shandas

    06/15/2026 | 35 mins.
    In this episode of Unearthing Optimism, host Dan Lambe sits down with climate resilience expert Dr. Vivek Shandas to dig into the urgent issue of extreme heat in U.S. cities—and the hope found in community-driven solutions. 

    From the science behind urban heat islands, to real-life stories of neighbors coming together in the face of record-breaking heatwaves, this episode explores why trees matter for our health, well-being, and sense of connection.

    Join us for an optimistic conversation packed with ideas for how trees and teamwork can help communities reduce extreme heat. 

    Listen to this episode and share it with someone who cares about building a better, cooler future.

    Follow Us

    Facebook @ArborDay

    Instagram @ArborDayFoundation

    LinkedIn @Arbor Day Foundation

    Presented by the Arbor Day Foundation
    www.ArborDay.org

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
  • Unearthing Optimism

    Strengthening America’s Forests with Chief Tom Schultz

    05/18/2026 | 36 mins.
    In this episode of Unearthing Optimism, host Dan Lambe welcomes Tom Schultz, the 21st Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, for a thoughtful conversation about the rewards and responsibilities that come with caring for America’s landscapes. 

    Chief Schultz opens up about leadership, stewardship, and tackling some of the toughest challenges in forestry today, like replanting after wildfires. He reflects on the power of partnership in the effort to grow forests and the importance of building trust with communities. Together, Dan and Chief Schultz explore what it means to lead with hope. 

    You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective on service, community, and what’s possible when we work together. 

    NOTE: As a note to our listeners, this podcast episode was recorded in December 2025.

    Tune in now!

    Follow Us

    Facebook @ArborDay

    Instagram @ArborDayFoundation

    LinkedIn @Arbor Day Foundation

    Presented by the Arbor Day Foundation
    www.ArborDay.org

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
More Earth Sciences podcasts
About Unearthing Optimism
From the Arbor Day Foundation, Unearthing Optimism brings you into the heart of a new kind of conversation about the future of our planet — one rooted in hope, resilience, and the lessons nature offers. In each episode, Arbor Day Foundation CEO Dan Lambe uncovers fresh perspectives and real-world stories about enduring optimism in the face of environmental challenges. Through conversations with visionaries, experts, and community leaders, we explore how nature, and the people who champion it, can strengthen communities, and foster a more sustainable, vibrant future. Join us as we find beauty, wisdom, and solutions in the environment around us. We're not just imagining a better world, we're growing one.
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