I love a call-in episode! We are speaking with four people today about what research they’re currently working on, the value they’re adding to the scientific community, and how their projects are impacted by the current pandemic. Claire is a PhD student working on cancer biology; Charlotte is a PhD student working on hydrology and flooding; Leah is an undergraduate in environmental engineering interested in natural resource management; and Erika is an undergraduate in microbiology working on cor...
Apr 21, 2020•47 min
We are celebrating Earth Week here every day this week! We are starting off with today’s episode with five at-home sustainability tips. Whatever quarantine phase you’re in – cooking, gardening, home improvement, impulse shopping – you have the opportunity to reassess how those actions are impacting the planet. Below, I have linked episodes that expand on specific points made in today’s episode. Follow us on socials @ecochicpodcast / @lauraediez , sign up for our newsletter + support our shop at ...
Apr 20, 2020•17 min
We’re joined today by Brittany Peet, the Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement division for the PETA Foundation. We are talking all about captive animals: the current status of captive animals in America, where regulation needs to go, and also all things Tiger King! This conversation was heavily inspired by Netflix’s Tiger King, a docu-series focusing on exotic animal zookeepers and breeders. Brittany was featured in Tiger King speaking about captive animal law, the animal abuse allegations...
Apr 07, 2020•29 min
We’re speaking today with Brooke Harris, founder of Goodmylk Co., a Los Angeles based sustainable, organic, and fresh alternative milk company. Brooke is peeling back the curtains of alternative milks: a lot of the options on the market now are full of strange gums, artificial flavoring or other unmentionables, in nearly-impossible-to-recycle containers. Brooke takes us through her own whole food wellness journey, and how her homemade almond milk experiment became a full-blown, wildly innovative...
Apr 06, 2020•43 min
Today’s milestone episode is focusing on the discussions swirling around climate and current events: what can the COVID-19 pandemic teach us about how to deal with the climate crisis? We’re discussing today the roles of individuals, corporations, and the environmental responses we’re seeing around the world in response to the tragic pandemic. Thank you to our first responders – hospital staff and public frontline workers making sure the world stays healthy and functioning so many of us can pract...
Apr 01, 2020•10 min
Today we are speaking all things health with The Modern Pharmacist, Dr. Mona Vand! Dr. Mona is a health practitioner that believes in preventative, proactive wellness, from diet, exercise, and mindset. We’re speaking today about food, and how dietary choices may help your immunity, nutrient levels, and even overall mood. Dr. Mona shares some insight on Ayurvedic medicine and how food combining may help your digestion. We segway into skincare, and Dr. Mona breaks down from a chemical level why ce...
Mar 26, 2020•41 min
As they say, in the pie chart of life … electricity and heat production make up 25% of our global greenhouse gas production . We’re speaking today about climate solutions that could massively cut back on our electricity consumption, carbon-intensive generation, and improve our long-term resiliency. Plus, these measures could save you money today at home. We’re discussing ways we can improve our energy dependancies through efficiency, shifting production, and improving the electric system. Today’...
Mar 17, 2020•16 min
We’re chatting today with Daniella Monet: actress, singer, animal rights advocate and big time supporter of plant-based businesses. Daniella shares her journey to veganism (spoiler: she was not even 13!). We converse openly about her dedication to investing in plant-based businesses, from her first stocks to her now full-on involvement in uplifting the vegan economy. She is heavily involved in Kinder Beauty , Sugar Taco , Outstanding Foods , Mo4Paws , and most recently, Bridget . Daniella shares...
Mar 10, 2020•33 min
Did you know that the cosmetics industry is one of the least regulated industries in America? We’re joined today by Lindsay Dahl, SVP of Social Mission at Beautycounter. Beautycounter is quite literally revolutionizing the clean beauty movement; they are actively demanding stricter regulations in their own industry. Beyond their cosmetics and skincare products, Beautycounter does an amazing amount of activism in policy and consumer education. Lindsay leads safety, sustainability, advocacy and ph...
Mar 03, 2020•35 min
We’re talking about art, activism, and how environmental issues can be creatively tackled. Tre’ and Akira of Pangeaseed Foundation are joining us to discuss the crossroads of sustainability, education, ecology, and design. Pangeaseed Foundation has facilitated approximately 400 public art projects in 15 countries through a community-first approach. Artists become spokespeople and educators for local concerns. Right now, they’re working on their Sea Walls project; artists all over the globe are p...
Feb 26, 2020•43 min
Perhaps our most thought-provoking call-in episode yet! We’re exploring today the social psych concept of environmentalism and green habits often being associated with femininity. Are you less “manly” if you’re carrying a reusable bag or opting for a fuel efficient vehicle? We’re hearing thorough breakdown from two environmentalist working through this issue in their own circles, Ryan and CJ. Ryan opens up our episode laying the foundation for better understanding these generalized groups of men...
Feb 18, 2020•52 min
It’s easy to be impressed by all the “sustainable” products entering stores, but it’s also easy to be tricked into believing deceitful eco-friendly labels. Today, we’re discuss greenwashing: a marketing tactic leading consumers to assume a company’s products are more environmentally sound than they truly are. This episode gives an overview of items currently in market, plus campaigns and habits that we should be thinking more critically about regarding their environmental impact. We discuss cert...
Feb 04, 2020•11 min
We’re taking our conscious consumption one step further today! We’re speaking with Charity Driggs of Morningstar, an investment research firm. Charity is shedding light on lots of topics across the financial landscape for us individuals. Because we aim to be more eco-conscious in our daily lives, we should also start thinking more deeply about our savings. We know that the vast majority of greenhouse gas emissions are attributed to major corporations… and if you have a 401K, you’re an investor! ...
Jan 28, 2020•29 min
This episode is such a treat! Christine Bader is the author of The Evolution of a Corporate Idealist: Girl Meets Oil . In her book, she recounts her experiences working for BP on social impact on major projects around the world. Christine was working in corporate social responsibility (CSR) before it was truly a dedicated concern for organizations. Christine goes on to a United Nations mandate dedicated to human rights, and various teaching and speaking roles. Later on, she is the Director of So...
Jan 22, 2020•38 min
Shopping secondhand can be a treasure hunt… and luxury secondhand is a whole new ballgame. We’re chatting today with Meredith Fineman, host of It Never Gets Old: A Firsthand Account of All Things Secondhand. Meredith is sharing tips on how to begin finding designer pieces for a fraction of their retail prices. We’re talking about authentication, where to look for your high-end pieces, and what brands hold the most value. We also discuss how to begin reselling goods and looking at your closet as ...
Jan 14, 2020•36 min
The Australian Fires are unprecedented in their size, destruction, and duration. The staggering number of lost lives, homes, and wildlife is heartbreaking. We’re all wondering: is this happening because of climate change? We’re exploring today how and why climate change exacerbates natural hazards. First, we’re clarifying the difference between weather and climate, and then getting into human-induced climate change as a risk multiplier. Beyond breaking down the impact of temperature rise and low...
Jan 07, 2020•12 min
This call-in episode is overflowing with career inspo! We’re speaking with six women today about their professional dedication to environmental work at climate change, all in different fields and different organizational levels. Across five conversations, we’re hearing from: Sophia in research with NASA Develop; Ariel in corporate sustainability with MacMillan Publishing; Hannah and Lacie in socially conscious Public Relations with Lum A Terra Media; Gabi interning on climate literacy with the C...
Jan 01, 2020•1 hr 3 min
We know plant-based diets require less resources and encourage nutrient diversity. But did we realize that a plant-based diet also helps us lessen the amount of toxins, chemicals, and other grossness that enters our lives? We’re introducing today the concepts of bioaccumulation and biomagnification: how toxins build up in organisms and move up the food chain. In fish, beef, or any other supermarket animal product, it’s tricky to know what exactly we are ingesting. We go through the Cliff’s Notes...
Dec 17, 2019•17 min
If you’re just beginning your environmental journey, or curious to know what the zero waste movement is all about… this episode is for you! We’re giving a grand overview of what a zero waste or low waste lifestyle stands for: reduce, reuse, recycle, repair, rot. Plus, sharing tips to help you lower your footprint today. Helpful episodes to learn more: * How To Shop Package Free * Straws vs Fishing Nets: What’s The Big Deal? * Get Thrifty * How To Recycle Almost Anything * The Compost Convo Shop ...
Dec 12, 2019•12 min
It may seem like the answer to your sustainable wardrobe goals may be minimalism… and minimalism can be intimidating! Today we’re speaking with Erin Orbach, Brand Manager of Boody Ecowear, a brand of eco-conscious basics. We’re discussing why bamboo is an ultra-sustainable fabric choice and certifications to look for when you’re choosing your pieces. Plus, we’re sharing easily implementable tips to help you streamline your closet, shift your buying habits, and reshape your idea of a “green” ward...
Dec 10, 2019•35 min
The United Nations has set Sustainable Development Goals to help us tackle concerns across multiple dimensions: societal, economic, and environmental. Today, we’re speaking with Claudia La Rue, the First Secretary to the Dominican Republic mission of the United Nations. We’re first overviewing the Millennium Development Goals, then discussing what the Sustainable Development Goals hope to accomplish for global wellbeing by 2030. There is really an opportunity for individuals across sectors to co...
Dec 03, 2019•36 min
Black Friday sales are upon us, and holiday gift giving is definitely testing our commitment to being conscious consumers! On today’s bonus episodes, we’ll be going through guidelines to be a mindful shopper for both yourself and others. We’re sharing some creative ideas as alternatives to likely landfill-bound presents, plus reframing our mindset around extreme sales. Let’s hang out on Instagram! – @ecochicpodcast / @lauraediez . Email me at laura@lauraediez.com . Check out TOTALLY ECO CHIC: Th...
Nov 29, 2019•10 min
I am beyond thrilled to welcome you today to TOTALLY ECO CHIC: The Eco-Conscious Lifestyle Shop! I am sharing my journey thus far: how this podcast began, including some behind-the-scenes insight, like why we don’t have advertisers. TOTALLY ECO CHIC is our new sister brand – a place for all your stylish sustainability supplies. I’ll discuss the vision behind the products in our first drop: produce bags, silicone bags, baseball caps, and postcards featuring one-of-a-kind, cheeky graphics. You’ll ...
Nov 26, 2019•18 min
With some potential sticky climate conversations looming this holiday season, we’re learning today how to have thoughtful, relatable conversations with climate skeptics. We’re chatting with Sarah Ott, a chapter leader with Citizens Climate Lobby in a conservative North Georgia region, and a teacher ambassador with the National Center for Science Education. Sarah is a former climate skeptic herself, College Republican, and the granddaughter of a coal miner. We’re sharing lots of tangible, take-ho...
Nov 20, 2019•50 min
It’s Election Day! We’re gearing up to hear about a lot of different environmental plans this next campaign season, so this episode is breaking down the basics to help you better determine which policies really speak to you. We’re talking about carbon pricing – explaining the difference between a carbon tax and a cap-and-trade policy – plus all the ways we can label net zero emissions. We’ll touch on the Paris Climate Accord, and how the U.S. leaving may have major economic implications. It’s ea...
Nov 05, 2019•17 min
We love a call-in episode! Today is all about encouraging those around you to think deeper about eco-conscious lifestyles. We’re speaking with three listeners about their initiatives in their respective local communities: Bella, creator of Sage Magazine ; Faith, a host of local TV segments and workshops; and Nika, president of a free campus pop-up thrift shop . Across all conversations, we’re talking about those personal connections that really help those around you transition into more eco-cons...
Oct 29, 2019•31 min
April Davis of The Vagina Blog joins up today to talk about all things menstruation! We’re discussing all of your options for period products – health benefits, reusable versus disposable, and encouraging you to find what works best for your body. April is also discussing fertility, and how we can support our cycle all month long. Other episodes mentioned are Episode 24 on menstrual cups + Episode 48 on sexual health products. Chat with me!! @ecochicpodcast + @lauraediez Find April at http://the...
Oct 15, 2019•40 min
We’re talking about your dog’s environmental impact today. Let’s chat about poop bags: are they really biodegradable? We’re also addressing the age-old question of whether or not your dog should be a vegetarian. Plus, we’re talking about the best options for toys and beds that will last. Thank you to all listeners that gave recommendations to share on this episode! Connect with us on instagram, @ecochicpodcast + @lauraediez Items mentioned: * BioBag (compostable doggie bags)* Nylon bag (zero was...
Oct 09, 2019•13 min
Plastic isn’t inherently “bad”… but what we’re doing with it definitely is! We’re talking today about where plastic comes from and how it ends up in your drinking water (and food!). Is recycling a good option? What’s wrong with those “eco” plastic water bottles? Plus, we’re touching on the environmental and health impacts of Styrofoam. Lots of good tidbits to help you educate and encourage your friends to join the plastic-free movement. Email me if you would be interested in taking a survey for ...
Oct 01, 2019•15 min
Scooters are popping up on streets across the world… big cities, campuses, and coming to just about everywhere in between. E-scooter share programs are selling the idea of the “last mile ride,” but we’re breaking down why they’re not quite living up to that promise. On this episode, we’re talking about policy concerns, emissions, but also how e-scooters could definitely serve as a climate action tool in the future. Connect with me @ecochicpodcast + @lauraediez Learn more about your ad choices. V...
Sep 19, 2019•16 min
