Let’s be honest. It’s not cool to talk about the climate crisis. Not at Thanksgiving dinner. Not at the bar with friends. Not at the work.

We get it. No one wants to be the one to take the conversation from what’s going on with Bennifer and Spiderman or the new football season to, you know, the greatest real-life threat humanity has ever faced. Maybe you don’t exactly know what to say, and in any case, no one wants to be that guy.

It's downright awkward.

But not talking about the climate crisis today? Right at the exact moment that scientists are telling us that all those heatwaves, hurricanes and more go from bad to truly biblical?

The most recent reports on the current and forecasted impacts of climate change are clear—we are running out of time. Silence is no longer an option—and it could be doing more damage than you think.

Research shows there are typically four reasons people don't want to talk about climate change: 

• I don't know enough. 

• I don't want to talk about scary things. 

• I don't think I can make a difference. 

• I don't want to cause an argument. 

The more people hear conversations about climate change, the more socially validated these conversations become. That’s a big deal. 

Research shows that people tend to believe what they think those around them believe. So we need to signal to our friends and neighbors that climate is not only on our minds, it’s a priority. And once they see that climate change is important enough for you to talk about, it’s easier for them to talk to others about it, too. 

For inspiration and ideas check out our latest Podcast 52 (a rebroadcast), "Can one person make a difference? You Bet!"

We need to hear your voice. Big change begins with small talk. 

Follow for Free: The Green Elephant in the Room: Podcasting Solutions to Restore the Health of People and the Planet.