Climate, Truth & Story: A Conversation with Thomas Schueneman

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 55, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Thomas Schueneman, an environmental journalist, climate advocate, and Global Warming Is Real founder. Through an honest, reflective, and hopeful conversation, Thomas unpacks the role of storytelling in climate advocacy, shares personal moments that shaped his journey, and offers perspective on today’s most pressing sustainability debates.From growing up camping with his father, to attending COP21 and witnessing the historic Paris Agreement, Thomas brings decades of lived experience into this dynamic discussion on what’s at stake—and what’s still possible.You'll hear about:The emotional roots of environmental advocacyThe power and purpose of stories in driving climate actionHow to navigate climate skepticism while staying rooted in scienceReal talk on EVs, policy gaps, and corporate greenwashingThe hope Thomas finds in youth-led activism and small personal actionsWhether you’re an advocate, skeptic, or just curious about climate solutions, this episode offers a grounded, human-centered conversation on one of the most critical issues of our time. Timestamps00:00 – Intro 01:09 – Thomas’s early inspirations & personal journey 03:20 – From music to journalism: career turning points 04:28 – Learning hard lessons: Letting go of convincing everyone 05:00 – Why storytelling matters more than facts alone 06:18 – COP21 & permafrost: Stories that left a mark 08:57 – Facing climate skepticism with compassion 12:07 – The cost & complexity of climate solutions 16:40 – EVs, rare earths & green energy debates 23:25 – Understanding the complexity of climate change 24:21 – Corporate responsibility & greenwashing 27:35 – "The Story of Packaging" documentary 28:44 – Book preview: Finding Home in the Anthropocene 31:52 – Why reconnecting with nature is essential 34:49 – Youth-led activism & hope for the future 36:51 – Storytelling as a tool for systemic change 39:16 – Lightning round 44:30 – Final thoughts & a quote to carry forwardSupport the showStay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.Listen, watch, and follow:Spotify Video: Watch full episodes YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation X: @PreZeroST Instagram: @PreZeroSportsTalk LinkedIn: Connect with the Community TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk Substack: Sid BensalahGot feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion? Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/