In this gripping episode of The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations , we dive deep into the explosive revelations of Katherine Stewart’s new book, Money, Lies, and God . With nearly two decades of investigative journalism exposing the rise of Christian nationalism and the anti-democratic forces reshaping America, Stewart reveals the unholy alliances of billionaires, culture warriors, and ideological extremists working to dismantle our democratic foundations. This conversation is essential li...
Jun 22, 2025•52 min•Ep. 50
Have you ever felt powerless to change the system—wondering if one person's actions can truly make a difference in a world overwhelmed by complex challenges? In this provocative and inspiring episode of The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations, we confront the limiting belief that individual actions don't matter—a mindset Otto Scharmer and Katrin Kaufer describe as the "illusion of insignificance." Joined by hosts Dr. John Izzo and Alain Gauthier, we directly address elders and regenerative a...
May 26, 2025•59 min•Ep. 49
In a time of deep division and rising authoritarianism, what if we could reimagine democracy—not for the next election, but for the next generation? In this inspiring and provocative episode of The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations , co-hosts Dr. John Izzo and Alain Gauthier speak with two visionary leaders who are doing just that. Suzette Brooks Masters, leader of the Better Futures Project and advisor to the School of International Futures, and Clint Wilkins, retired educator and interge...
Apr 21, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 48
In this powerful episode, renowned climate philosopher and activist Dr. Rupert Read challenges us to confront the stark realities of climate breakdown and political instability. Offering a unique blend of radical honesty and transformative action, Read illuminates pathways forward through emotional resilience, transformative adaptation, and community empowerment. This isn't a conversation about easy fixes; it's a compelling call to face our crisis head-on, together. Dr. Rupert Read PhD is a prom...
Mar 30, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 47
On January 20, 2025, as Donald Trump was inaugurated for his second term as President of the United States, The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations seized this historic and uncertain moment to discuss the role of elders in shaping our collective future. In this powerful episode, we welcome esteemed author, educator, and activist Rick Moody to explore with us how those aged 65 and older can engage meaningfully in times of political and environmental upheaval. At a time when misinformation is ...
Feb 02, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 46
In this special episode of The Way Forward, we confront the stark realities emerging from the latest U.S. elections. With America seemingly more divided than ever, we explore what’s truly at stake for our democracy, our environment, and our social fabric. How do we face an uncertain future? This is not just politics—this is about the values we stand for and the world we wish to leave for our children. Tune in as we grapple with what this election reveals and the urgent questions that we now all ...
Dec 06, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 45
As we approach this pivotal election, the very fabric of our democracy is at risk. What happens if we let polarization and misinformation guide our choices? In this episode, John Sorensen joins us as we dissect what's truly at stake. Could we lose our rights, freedoms, and the values that make our democracy thrive. Join us as we dive deeply into the hard questions of who we want to be as a nation and how we preserve the democratic principles we hold dear. In this episode, John Sorensen returns t...
Oct 20, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 44
Join us as we talk as we hold a conversation with renowned farmer and activist Michael Ableman as he unearths the incredible potential of urban farming to heal our cities, our communities, and our souls. In this episode we explore how growing food in unexpected places can be a powerful act of resilience and regeneration. From feeding marginalized communities to reconnecting with the land, this is a conversation that will leave you rethinking the future of food and how you can be part of the solu...
Sep 29, 2024•56 min•Ep. 43
Welcome to a special solo episode of The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations . Today, we delve into a topic that strikes at the heart of aging with purpose—what does it mean to be a regenerative activist elder? In a world facing pressing challenges like climate change, social inequality, and environmental degradation, the wisdom of elders is more vital than ever. But this isn’t just about passing on knowledge; it’s about actively contributing to the regeneration of our planet and society. To...
Sep 09, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 42
In a world increasingly defined by its complexities, how do we ensure that future generations inherit a planet and society better than the one we found? Join us in this eye-opening episode where we sit down with Steve Higgs, the visionary Executive Director of SAGE (Senior Advocates for Generational Equity). Steve's profound insights into generational equity will challenge the way you think about your role in society, especially as an elder. Discover how every small action we take today can reve...
Aug 26, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 41
Today, we have another compelling episode. It is a groundbreaking discussion with Nathaniel Stinnett, founder of the Environmental Voter Project, whose mission is more crucial than ever. With millions of environmentalists failing to vote in past elections, Nathaniel is on a mission to turn this silent majority into a powerful force that politicians cannot ignore. Join us as we explore the untapped potential of environmental voters and how mobilizing them can reshape the political landscape and d...
Aug 03, 2024•59 min•Ep. 40
Welcome to "The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations" podcast. In today’s episode, we delve into the heart of regenerative thinking, exploring how we can transform our world amidst a complex meta-crisis. With environmental degradation, social upheaval, and economic instability, our conversation today addresses the urgent need to reimagine our systems and ourselves. How do we transition from a trauma-based culture to one of initiation and healing? How do we foster communities that are resilien...
Jul 22, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 39
In this compelling episode of "The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations," Dr. John Izzo and co-host Alain Gauthier delve deep into the profound questions surrounding elderhood. Joined by Lynne Iser, they explore the roles and responsibilities of elders in our society. The conversation centers around two fundamental questions: What does it mean to be an elder, and how can elders become activists at this critical juncture in human history? Lynne Iser is an advocate for elder activism and the Bo...
Jul 08, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 38
In a time when AI is both celebrated for its potential and feared for its risks, join us as we dive into the complex world of artificial intelligence with Hiwot Tesfaye , Technical Advisor in Microsoft's Office of Responsible AI. She provides a perspective on how we can harness this powerful technology responsibly. From addressing systemic inequities to imagining a future where AI and humans coexist harmoniously, this episode promises to challenge your thinking and inspire new possibilities." In...
Jun 17, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 37
In this episode, hosts Dr. John Izzo and Alain Gauthier engage in a conversation with youth climate activists Tony Passino and Sarah Hill from the organization Change the Chamber. The discussion revolves around the resurgence of youth activism on college campuses, particularly in relation to the climate emergency. Tony and Sarah share their personal journeys into activism and discuss the work their organization does in fighting the fossil fuel lobby by targeting the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and ...
Jun 03, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 36
Welcome to this episode of The Way Forward Regenerative Conversations podcast, where we delve into transformative ideas and pressing issues that shape the future of humanity and our planet. Today, we explore the profound impact of nature on leadership and personal transformation. As we navigate through unprecedented global challenges, it is crucial to find new ways to lead and live, particularly for those of us in midlife and beyond. Dana Carman , our esteemed guest, is at the forefront of integ...
May 17, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 35
How can we harness the power of activism to transform the environmental landscape and policy worldwide? Today we address this pressing question with Tzeporah Berman , whose life's work exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated activism can have on our planet's future. With a unique blend of direct action and policy advocacy, Tzeporah has navigated the complex interplay between grassroots movements and governmental strategies to spearhead sustainable change. Join us as we uncover the layers ...
Apr 24, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 34
Our podcasts explore the way forward and how we can shape our future as a society, our planet, and our personal journeys, especially as we navigate the later stages of life. Today’s episode will resonate with anyone pondering the essence of aging with intention and vitality, whether for yourself or someone you know. We explore aging with a sense of purpose, transforming our later years into a period of profound growth and contribution. Our guest, Richard Leider , is a luminary in the field of pu...
Apr 08, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 33
In this compelling episode, we engage in a deep conversation with guest Elliot Kotek on the impactful role of storytelling and filmmaking in shaping a sustainable and regenerative future for humanity and our planet. Elliot shares his journey from a young aspiring writer influenced by the cultural richness of Melbourne, Australia, to becoming a purpose-driven filmmaker in Los Angeles, tackling subjects ranging from social justice to environmental sustainability. This episode not only explores the...
Mar 12, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 31
In this special anniversary episode of "The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations," hosts Dr. John Isso, Alain Gauthier, and producer Jim Burke reflect on a year of impactful conversations with a diverse array of guests, from biologists and CEOs to indigenous experts, climate scientists and elders finding purpose in their third act. Celebrating 28 episodes of exploring alternatives for humanity and the planet's future, they delve into the current state of global affairs, including elections, w...
Feb 26, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 30
With the humanitarian crisis and ongoing conflict in Gaza and the Middle East on all our minds, passions run high as world leaders and nations attempt to navigate the complexities of this difficult situation and help all parties find a mutually agreeable solution. This episode features an in-depth look at the pressing issues facing the Middle East with Barbara Slavin . From the roots of the Iran-US confrontation to the humanitarian and political crises in Gaza, Barbara offers her comprehensive i...
Feb 11, 2024•56 min•Ep. 29
There is a growing problem in our approach to waste in this country and the world. Our global consumption has increased, leading to a significant rise in waste production and the materials we are using are often less desirable for recyclers due to their declining economic value. This trend has led to a decrease in recycling. Tom Szaky a pioneering entrepreneur and environmental thought leader is best known as the founder and CEO of TerraCycle , a global recycling company that specializes in hand...
Jan 28, 2024•56 min•Ep. 28
With our extended lifespan in the 21st century, midlife can extend from our 30s to our 60s or longer. What are the challenges and potential transformative experiences that face us, as we navigate that part of life? Chip Conley describes his forties as a difficult time for him. He lost five male friends to suicide and faced numerous personal crises. In this conversation, Chip shares his journey and his discoveries that lead him to co-found MEA, the Modern Elder Academy Chip disrupted the hospital...
Jan 07, 2024•58 min•Ep. 26
How do we find hope or optimism about a regenerative future in the 21st century? For many of the guests on this podcast it has been their experience with young people that inspires hope. In our conversation with Maia Ervin , Chief Impact Officer at JUV Consulting , we explore Generation Z as they emerge into adulthood. Gen Z’s are now in their teens and twenties and are asking different questions. What cultural, societal, and geopolitical experiences have imprinted this generation? How does busi...
Dec 18, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 25
As we all navigate the many transitions life has in store for each of us, where we can find a guide or map to help us? Paul Ward in his conversation with us today, shares the collaborate journey that has led him with his co-authors to write a new book “ Midlife, New Life: Living Consciously in Midlife and Beyond ”. In his self-described role as a life transition coach, Paul describes how we can use the Conscious Living Wheel and conscious conversation circles to help us move from attention to in...
Dec 04, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 24
The United Nations panel that studies climate change found that consumption surpassed population growth as the biggest driver of resource and material use on the planet at the turn of the 21st century. In the United States the population has increased 60% since the 1970s while the consumption of consumer items has increased 400%. We consume 13 times more than the average person in one of the poorer countries in the world. This means that having two children in the US is like having 20 children i...
Nov 20, 2023•58 min•Ep. 23
Elders Climate Action (ECA), a grassroots organization founded as project of Elders Action Network in 2014 has taken the lead in activating elders to be educated about and address the growing climate crisis at the federal, state, and local levels – through national policy initiatives and regional chapters. With a strong emphasis on partnerships - especially intergenerational - ECA addresses climate change while there is still time to protect the well-being of our children, grandchildren, and fut...
Nov 06, 2023•54 min•Ep. 22
Health span is the period of life during which you are generally healthy and free from serious chronic disease. In the United States the average lifespan historically has been lower compared to many developed countries. The U.S. also faces challenges with chronic disease, obesity and other health issues which negatively impact health span. In 2016 the average life expectancy at birth in the US was 79 years while the health span was only 68.5 years. This meant 10.5 years where a US resident exper...
Oct 15, 2023•58 min•Ep. 21
On YouTube and in current books, stories of pending societal collapse are increasingly apparent. Are we just experiencing the recurrence of the age-old theme” the end is near” or is something new happening? Are the increasing climate catastrophes, supply chain shortages, rising fuel and food prices caused by our growing environmental footprint? Are they symptoms of pending societal collapse? Are we in denial of this “new abnormal”? Drawing from the recent work of Jem Bendell , we explore his pro...
Oct 01, 2023•56 min•Ep. 20
Retirement is often presented by the media as a time of leaving meaningful work to pursue hobbies, travel, and more time with family. With increased life expectancy and evolving societal norms, the traditional notion of retirement is undergoing change. Some people now opt for semi-retirement, gradually reducing their work hours, or they switch careers to less demanding but more fulfilling work. Others find volunteer opportunities that are consistent with and in line with their passions. Some pur...
Sep 17, 2023•56 min•Ep. 19
