Episodes

Over the past few weeks we’ve been exploring the many layers behind the Netflix documentary The Plastic Detox as part of our special series rollout — looking at how storytelling, science, and community come together to address the plastic pollution crisis. First, we explored the production side — how filmmakers bring these stories to life. Then we looked at the pollution itself — the chemicals and plastics making their way into our environment and even into our bodies. Today we focus on the peo...

As we continue our focus on how film and production function as tools for justice, we’re leaning into the idea that storytelling doesn’t just inform—it transforms. Because culture shapes policy. And policy shapes lives. When we talk about the climate crisis, we often focus on policy debates and scientific reports. But film has the power to make those realities personal to help us see the human stakes behind the data. Host Rev Yearwood is joined by Josh “Bones” Murphy, an award-winning filmmaker...

When most people think about climate change, they picture melting glaciers or rising seas. But what if the climate crisis isn’t just happening around us? What if it’s happening inside us? What if the same pollution warming the planet is also disrupting our hormones, our fertility, and the future of our children? This episode features Dr. Shanna Swan and Professor Jasmine McDonald — two leading scientists whose research connects chemical exposure, plastics, reproductive health, cancer risk, and ...

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood is joined by author and essayist Mary Heglar, whose work ruminates on climate grief and justice. As a Black woman who grew up in the South, she speaks to the importance of telling stories that are explicit about the impacts of climate change and that honor the sacrifices of previous generations. Heglar also reads an excerpt from her new novel Troubled Waters, which explores the beauty and challenges of intergenerational healing on a burning plane...

In this episode of the The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood sits down with Dr. Earthea Nance, the Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator for Region 6. The conversation highlights the importance of intersectionality between climate and other social issues. Dr. Nance discusses the work the EPA is doing to protect Cancer Alley in Louisiana and the need for strategy in sacrifice zones. Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer ...

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood holds an intimate conversation with Time100 influential person Sharon Lavigne and her daughter, climate justice advocate Shamyra Lavigne Davey. The series aims to illuminate the environmental and social justice challenges facing Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. In her community of St. James Parish, Sharon Lavigne founded the grassroots organization Rise St. James to fight the expansion of petrochemical industries and mobilize her neighbors. The Lavignes...

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood heads to New Orleans for a live, in-person conversation with activists and community organizers, Jo and Joy Banner. The Banner sisters are committed to turning plantations into green spaces. Through the Descendents Project, they challenge systems that try to exploit descendants of those enslaved to plantations while ensuring their future and happiness. The twins speak of the importance of land reclamation and how interconnected the environment is...

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood heads to New Orleans for a live, in-person conversation with renowned poet, activist, and cultural worker Sunni Patterson. The series aims to illuminate the environmental and social justice challenges facing Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. Patterson, celebrated for her evocative spoken word performances and steadfast community advocacy, brings a profound and passionate perspective to the discussion. Her deep ties to New Orleans and her commitment to so...

This episode serves as the introduction to a special series titled “Community Over Cancer Alley,” presented by Think 100% and the Hip Hop Caucus. The series aims to shine a light on the environmental and social justice challenges faced by the communities in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. Rev Yearwood sets the stage by delving into the historical significance of the 1811 revolt and drawing connections to the contemporary struggles in Cancer Alley. Through compelling narratives and insightful commenta...

In this episode of “The Coolest Show,” we delve into the world of artivism with an inspiring lineup of guests. Hosted by JaRel Clay from the Hip Hop Caucus, the episode features intimate interviews with Tarriona “Tank” Ball from Tank and the Bangas, Singer-Songwriter Durand Bernarr, Cooke Nasty, and Ryan Butler from the Recording Academy. These talented artists and artivists share their journeys and insights on the intersection of art and activism, emphasizing the powerful role art plays in refl...

In this special 10-year anniversary episode of The Coolest Show Podcast, host Rev Yearwood is joined by DeJuan Cross, one of the producers and engineers behind the groundbreaking album “H.O.M.E. Heal Our Mother Earth.” Together, they dive into an in-depth review of the album, reflecting on its creation and enduring impact in the realm of environmental justice. This episode offers listeners a unique opportunity to hear first hand stories from behind the scenes, exploring the artistic and technica...

In this special episode of The Coolest Show Podcast, JaRel Clay from the Hip Hop Caucus leads a compelling discussion on Movement Music and Artivism. He is joined by the multi-talented Antonique Smith, a Grammy-nominated singer and actress known for her role in “Notorious” and her stirring performances in “Luke Cage.” Alongside her is the soulful singer Choklate, celebrated for her critically acclaimed albums “Choklate” and “To Whom It May Concern.” Together, they delve into the intersection of ...

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Producer and Guest Host Tamara Toles O’Laughlin sits down with Rev Yearwood to delve into the powerful fusion of movement music and artivism. They explore how the climate movement has historically overlooked the crucial role of art and creativity in driving change. Rev Yearwood, President and CEO of the Hip Hop Caucus, highlights the organization’s pioneering efforts to bridge this gap, empowering artivists to craft pieces that illustrate the intersection of ...

In this special Memorial Day episode of The Coolest Show Podcast, host Rev Yearwood delivers a heartfelt message encouraging listeners to take time to rest, relax, and enjoy their holiday. Acknowledging the importance of reflection and rejuvenation, Rev Yearwood underscores the significance of Memorial Day as a time to honor those who have served while also taking a moment for self-care and connection with loved ones. Looking ahead, Rev Yearwood offers an exciting preview of upcoming episodes, ...

In this special episode of The Coolest Show, host Rev Yearwood steps into a different role as he delivers a heartfelt commencement speech at Paul Smith’s College. The occasion is particularly poignant as Rev’s son, River Yearwood, is among the graduates of the class of 2024. The episode captures the essence of the moment, filled with pride, hope, and the weight of responsibility that comes with stepping into the future. Rev Yearwood’s speech is a stirring message of hope and inspiration. He emp...

In this episode of The Coolest Show Podcast, hosted by Rev Yearwood, listeners are treated to a behind-the-scenes glimpse as the producers, Tamara Toles O’Laughlin, Destiny Hodges, and DeJuan Cross, take the stage. As the sixth season unfolds, this special episode serves as a comprehensive update on the intersection of climate, culture, and politics. With a fervent dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices, the podcast dives into pressing current events, dissecting their implications on o...

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Assistant Producer Destiny Hodges takes the reins, filling in for Rev Yearwood, and continues speaking to an inspiring lineup of guests to delve into the transformative world of urban greening. In this episode, Destiny leads Dr. Manuel Pastor, director of USC Equity Research Institute, and Sissy Trinh, Executive Director, Southeast Asian Community Alliance (SEACA-LA). Our guests share their experiences in championing environmental justice and empowering Bla...

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Assistant Producer Destiny Hodges takes the reins, filling in for Rev Yearwood, and sits down with an inspiring lineup of guests to delve into the transformative world of urban greening. In this episode, Destiny leads discussions with Russell Armstrong from the Hip Hop Caucus, Marquees Harris Dawson, Councilmember for District 8 of Los Angeles, Richard Garcia of Alma Backyard Farms, and Skipp Townsend, CEO of 2nd Call. Our guests share their experiences in ...

In this episode of The Coolest Show podcast, host Rev Yearwood engages in a discussion with Daniel Cordalis, a distinguished member of the Navajo Nation and Staff Attorney at the Native American Rights Fund. Together, they delve into the pressing issue of the Colorado River Basin’s dwindling water supply, a lifeline for 40 million people across multiple states and Tribal Nations. The conversation unfolds to reveal the stark reality of a “mega drought” that has plagued the region since 2000, resu...

Chad Brown is the Founder & President of Soul River Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting inner-city youth with the outdoors through transformative experiences. Chad has focused his efforts on empowering marginalized communities to engage with nature and become stewards of the environment. In Alaska, Chad has been instrumental in leading expeditions and educational programs that highlight the importance of protecting the state’s fisheries and ecosystems. Through his work, he co...

Alyssa Quintyne is a Bajan-American community organizer, musician, researcher, and artist based in Fairbanks, Alaska. Her artwork subverts the artistic trope of Black women portrayed in positions of servitude. Her organizing is centered in intersectionality, democracy, accessibility, and communal healing and action in response to the impacts of industry and the climate crisis. In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood speaks to Quintyne about artivism, the critical condition of Alaskan ...

The Mississippi River has shaped much of American history–from colonization and forming borders to enslavement and “Manifest Destiny.” This river basin is the largest drainage basin in the US, the second longest river in North America, and runs almost the entire length of the US before flowing into the Gulf of Mexico through southeast Louisiana. It covers about 40 percent of the continental United States, providing drinking water for nearly 20 million people. This lifeline for the nation is cons...

In this episode of “The Coolest Show” podcast, Tamara Toles O’Laughlin engages in a dynamic conversation with Heather McTeer Toney. As the Executive Director at Beyond Petrochemicals, Heather leads the charge in pioneering sustainable practices, championing environmental justice, and bridging gaps in the energy sector. With a stellar background, including her impactful collaboration with Bloomberg Philanthropies, Heather delves into her multifaceted experiences and contributions to climate advoc...

On this episode of “The Coolest Show,” we welcome the dynamic Rukia Lumumba as a guest. A tenacious advocate and Executive Director of the People’s Advocacy Institute, Lumumba brings her unwavering commitment to social justice to the forefront. In this captivating interview, she engages in a poignant conversation with Rev Yearwood, delving into her inspiring journey as a community leader and her relentless pursuit of equitable rights for marginalized groups. Together, they explore the critical i...