Green Tea Party Radio

One Resilience to Rule Them All: Young Conservatives in the Climate Fellowship

Gather round, dear Hobbits, Elves, and Dwarves! In this epic episode of Green Tea Party Radio, Katie Zakrzewski embarks on a journey inspired by Middle-earth to explore the role young conservatives play in battling climate change. Much like Frodo carrying the Ring to Mount Doom, today's environmental conservatives carry the daunting responsibility of confronting a world increasingly troubled by climate peril.
Katie summons the wisdom of Gandalf as she reflects on resilience, hope, and the importance of small yet impactful actions. Like the Fellowship itself, young conservatives must band together, wielding tools such as market-driven solutions, technological innovation, and historic conservative stewardship to fight the shadows of climate despair.
(No Hobbits were harmed in the making of this episode)
Episode highlights include:
How climate change mirrors the epic struggle against Sauron's growing darkness.
The critical role of conservative youth, akin to brave hobbits, in driving meaningful environmental change.
Practical, community-based actions conservatives can take that reflect their values and have lasting impacts, much like the brave deeds in the Shire.
The necessity of hope and resilience—key qualities that sustained Frodo on his perilous journey.
Whether you’re a hobbit from the countryside or a wizard wise in policy, join Katie as she explores the power of resilience and community in the ongoing saga of environmental conservation.
Remember, "Even the smallest person can change the course of the future."
Call to Action:
Engage locally—every Shire matters!
Support and advocate for conservative market-driven solutions to climate issues.
Stay resilient and hopeful, recognizing the long-term nature of the climate battle.
Connect and Join the Fellowship:
Email your thoughts to info@greenteapartyradio.com
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Join our Patreon Fellowship for exclusive content and merch at greenteapartyradio.com
Thank you for being part of our fellowship—let’s journey forward, for Middle-earth (and our earth) needs us now more than ever!
Disclaimer: Green Tea Party Radio is an independent project and doesn’t represent the views of the Diocese of Little Rock, Catholic Climate Covenant, NASA, or any of our employers.

Canada's Carbon Tax Debate: Economic Strategy or Political Chess?

In this episode of Green Tea Party Radio, hosts Zach Torpy and Katie Zakrzewski dive into Canada's contentious carbon tax debate. With Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent move to eliminate the consumer carbon tax ahead of a snap election, conservatives find themselves at a strategic crossroads. Is this political maneuvering, or a genuine economic strategy?
Zach and Katie explore:
How Canada's previous carbon tax worked and its direct impacts on everyday Canadians.
Economic strategies employed by Canada to counteract U.S. tariffs under President Trump, including the purchase and coordinated sell-off of U.S. treasury bonds.
The real-world effects of the carbon tax on Canadian households, highlighting rebates and perceived versus actual economic impacts.
Insights into industrial carbon taxes versus consumer taxes, examining their effectiveness and public perception.
The hosts also discuss broader conservative environmental solutions, the complexities of tariff strategies, and what future carbon pricing policies might look like in Canada and potentially the U.S.
Action Steps:
Research and understand Canada's evolving carbon tax policy.
Stay informed about Canada's snap election results and their implications for environmental policy.
Reflect on how similar policies could impact economic and environmental outcomes in the United States.
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Thank you to all our patrons and listeners! Your support fuels our mission to highlight conservative solutions to climate change.
Disclaimer: Green Tea Party Radio is an independent project and doesn’t represent the views of the Diocese of Little Rock, Catholic Climate Covenant, NASA, or any of our employers.
 

Canadian Conservative: Pierre Polievre vs. Mark Carney and the Carbon Tax Debate

In this episode of Green Tea Party Radio, hosts Zach Torpie and Katie Zakrzewski are diving headfirst into the wild world of Canadian politics, just as a snap election is about to shake things up! With Prime Minister Mark Carney ringing the election bell, our dynamic duo breaks down what this means for the environment and the future of conservatism in the Great White North.
Join the fun as they pit Carney against Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre—who some might say is the Canadian Trump (yikes!). From the hot-button issue of the carbon tax to the heated debates over oil and gas exports, Zach and Katie navigate the twists and turns of these political players and their green agendas. 🎉
What’s on the agenda this week? - The upcoming snap election in Canada - A closer look at Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre - The lowdown on the carbon tax and its impact on Canadians - The future of conservatism across North America - The tricky balancing act between economic growth and protecting our planet
🛠️ What can you do this week? - Share your hot takes on Canadian politics and environmental policies - Think about how these big decisions affect everyday folks like you
- Jump into the convo by shooting us an email with your insights
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"Honestly, after hearing about Mark Carney's like economic positions and his environmental positions, if he like ran as a conservative, I'd probably vote for him here in the United States." -Zach
"For me, being pro environment is pro life. So I don't know that you can, you know, say, oh, well, we're going to clean up the environment and improve your quality of life for when you sleep under a bridge." -Katie
Disclaimer: Green Tea Party Radio is an independent project and doesn’t represent the views of the Diocese of Little Rock, Catholic Climate Covenant, NASA, or any of our employers.

No One’s Coming to Save Us: A Young Conservative’s Climate Reckoning

In this raw and powerful solo episode, Katie Zakrzewski lays it all bare. After 54 wildfires ripped across Arkansas—one of which devastated the historic St. Joseph Center in North Little Rock—Katie reflects on climate change, grief, frustration, and what it means to be a young conservative environmentalist in a world that keeps burning while those in power keep denying.
This one hits close to home—literally. Katie shares the personal significance of the St. Joseph Center, the sacred history it carried, and how it became a refuge during a difficult chapter of Katie's life after being laid off from Citizens Climate Lobby. Now it’s gone. But Katie doesn’t just sit in the ashes—she asks: What do we do now?
🔥 Topics Covered:
The shocking rise of wildfires in Arkansas
The destruction of the 115-year-old St. Joseph Center
Climate denial and conservative inaction
Grief, anger, and spiritual doubt in the face of loss
The challenge of staying hopeful and motivated
Self-care as a radical act of resistance
🛠️ Action Steps This Week:
Take care of yourself: nap, shower, clean one room, watch birds, eat something you love
Put your phone down and go to bed 30 minutes earlier
Be gentle with yourself—especially if no one else is
Remember: you caring might be the one thing keeping evil from winning
🔗 Links and Resources:
St. Joseph Center of Arkansas – Donation Page (if available)
Katie's article about the St Joseph Center fire
More info on Arkansas wildfires
Join the Conversation!
📧 Email us: info@greenteapartyradio.com📲 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok🎧 Want early access to episodes & exclusive merch? Visit: greenteapartyradio.com📡 Want to bring Green Tea Party Radio to your college station? Let us know!
Disclaimer: Green Tea Party Radio is an independent project and does not represent the views of the Diocese of Little Rock, Catholic Climate Covenant, NASA, or any of our employers.

Borderline Crazy: Tariffs, Trade Wars, and Trump’s Policies

In this feisty episode, hosts Katie Zakrzewski and Zach Torpy dive deep into the turbulent waters of tariffs, trade, and environmental politics in North America. They break down former President Trump's tariff roller coaster with Mexico and Canada, exploring the economic and environmental ripple effects of these on-again, off-again trade barriers.
Highlights include a profile of Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female and Jewish president, whose environmental and economic policies represent a significant departure from her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador. From expanding renewable energy to improving mass transit and rail infrastructure, Sheinbaum’s bold commitments could reshape Mexico’s role in North America.
Katie and Zach also critically assess Trump's approach to tariffs, immigration, and international relations, questioning the sustainability and rationale behind recent trade policies.
Episode Highlights:
Analysis of Trump's trade policies and their chaotic implications.
Claudia Sheinbaum’s groundbreaking presidency and environmental ambitions.
Economic realities of U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade interdependencies.
Environmental impacts of shifting supply chains due to tariffs.
Insightful (and snarky) takes on immigration policies and cross-border issues.
Action Steps (Katie’s libertarian endorsement):“File your taxes or don't—clearly, it doesn’t matter anymore. Steal street signs; you've already paid for them anyway!”
Join the Conversation!📧 Email us: info@greenteapartyradio.com📲 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok🎧 Want early access to episodes & exclusive merch? Visit: greenteapartyradio.com📡 Want to bring Green Tea Party Radio to your college station? Let us know!
Disclaimer: Green Tea Party Radio is an independent project and does not represent the views of the Diocese of Little Rock, Catholic Climate Covenant, NASA, or any of our employers.
 

Icons of Conservative Environmentalism: Heroes Every Young Conservative Should Know

In this special episode of Green Tea Party Radio, host Katie Zakrzewski shares her personal list of influential heroes who have shaped her identity as a conservative environmentalist. These figures—ranging from presidents and politicians to scientists, authors, and activists—offer diverse perspectives on conservative stewardship of the environment. Discover their notable achievements, influential writings, and learn how their legacies continue to inspire environmental responsibility within a conservative framework. NOTE: not all of the following identified as conservatives, but Katie is open to common sense voices even if they are not conservative. 
Katie’s Environmental Heroes:
Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919): 26th President of the U.S., pioneer of American conservation, founder of numerous national parks, wildlife refuges, and the Antiquities Act.
Russell Kirk (1918–1994): Influential conservative philosopher advocating traditional stewardship, land conservation, and responsible environmental practices.
Barry Goldwater (1909–1998): Arizona Senator and conservative libertarian who championed public land conservation and sustainable resource use.
James Watt (1938–2023): Reagan’s Secretary of the Interior, promoted market-based approaches to land management and conservation policy.
Gale Norton (b. 1954): Secretary of the Interior under George W. Bush, focused on state-driven, market-friendly conservation policies and renewable energy.
Conrad Black (b. 1944): Conservative writer advocating balanced environmental regulation for economic growth and ecological preservation.
Maggie Gallagher (b. 1962): Conservative commentator connecting strong family values to sustainable environmental practices.
Rachel Carson (1907–1964): Marine biologist whose book Silent Spring sparked modern environmentalism and led to the banning of harmful pesticides like DDT.
John Muir (1838–1914): Scottish-American naturalist, co-founder of the Sierra Club, instrumental in establishing Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks.
E.O. Wilson (1929–2021): Biologist renowned for biodiversity conservation, sociobiology, and advocating the protection of global habitats.
Jane Goodall (b. 1934): Celebrated primatologist and conservationist, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, promoting sustainable development and animal welfare.
Barry Commoner (1917–2012): Pioneer of modern environmentalism, linked industrial practices to ecological health and advocated scientific policy solutions.
Barton Seaver (b. 1976): Chef and advocate for sustainable seafood and marine conservation, bridging culinary arts with environmental responsibility.
Wendell Berry (b. 1934): Poet, farmer, and essayist emphasizing sustainable agriculture, local economies, and community-focused environmental stewardship.
Dr. Sylvia Earle (b. 1935): Marine biologist dedicated to ocean conservation, founder of Mission Blue, and influential advocate for protecting marine biodiversity.
Join the Conversation!📧 Email us: info@greenteapartyradio.com📲 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok🎧 Want early access to episodes & exclusive merch? Visit: greenteapartyradio.com📡 Want to bring Green Tea Party Radio to your college station? Let us know!
Disclaimer: Green Tea Party Radio is an independent project and does not represent the views of the Diocese of Little Rock, Catholic Climate Covenant, or any of our employers.

Conservatives for the Environment: Analyzing Trump's Cabinet Choices on Climate

Join Zach Torpie and Katie Zakrzewski as they dive into the complexities of conservative environmentalism in this episode of Green Tea Party Radio! They explore the latest developments in environmental policy, including the intriguing nomination of Lee Zeldin as the head of the EPA and Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy. With a mix of humor and insightful analysis, they dissect the implications of these appointments, Zeldin’s mixed voting record, and Wright's focus on natural gas and geothermal energy.
The episode kicks off with some light-hearted banter about an upcoming play in London that dramatizes the negotiations of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, and then Katie asks OpenAI to help her write her own. 
The duo also shares their thoughts on the importance of balancing economic interests with environmental stewardship, while encouraging listeners to engage with their representatives on these pressing issues. Grab your mugs and tune in for a lively discussion on the intersection of politics, energy, and conservation!
🗣️ Quote from Zach
"I think there's a frantic push to hurry up and do something quick so you can say you were effective."
"Chris Wright is a solid Secretary of energy, as we could hope for under President Trump."
Join the Conversation!📧 Email us: info@greenteapartyradio.com📲 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok🎧 Want early access to episodes & exclusive merch? Visit: greenteapartyradio.com📡 Want to bring Green Tea Party Radio to your college station? Let us know!
Disclaimer: Green Tea Party Radio is an independent project and does not represent the views of the Diocese of Little Rock, Catholic Climate Covenant, or any of our employers.
 
🗣️ Quote from Katie 
"Protecting the environment is one of the few things I think the government should do."

Catholic Teachings, The Environment, and Donald Trump

In this episode of the Green Tea Party, Katie dives into the intersection of Catholic social teaching and contemporary environmental issues, particularly regarding the Trump administration's policies.
With a unique blend of personal reflection and critical analysis, she explores the disconnect between the values upheld by the Catholic Church and the actions taken by political leaders.
Katie discusses key principles such as the dignity of the human person, the preferential option for the poor, and the importance of caring for creation, highlighting how recent executive orders clash with these foundational tenets. She emphasizes the need for young conservatives to engage in climate advocacy and encourages listeners to voice their concerns to their representatives. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges the status quo and advocates for a more sustainable future.
Action Steps:🔹 Choose one of the 12 climate actions discussed and commit to trying it🔹 Engage with a local environmental initiative or GOP chapter🔹 Use your voice—write an op-ed, share on social media, or contact your representatives🔹 Support businesses that align with conservative climate values🔹 Encourage discussion—host or attend a local event about environmental solutions
Join the Conversation!📧 Email us: info@greenteapartyradio.com📲 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok🎧 Want early access to episodes & exclusive merch? Visit: greenteapartyradio.com📡 Want to bring Green Tea Party Radio to your college station? Let us know!
Disclaimer: Green Tea Party Radio is an independent project and does not represent the views of the Diocese of Little Rock, Catholic Climate Covenant, or any of our employers.