Episodes
![Keeping It On Track: The Conservative Case for Choosing Rails Over Air](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/17011180/GTPR_LOGO_FINAL_JPG_x9sb6g_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Keeping It On Track: The Conservative Case for Choosing Rails Over Air
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
As the modern world grapples with sustainable travel solutions, Zach and Hannah put the spotlight on an important issue that often gets overlooked: the benefits of investing in high-speed rail infrastructure. Their dynamic discussion illuminates the current state of travel in the U.S. and hints at how a renewed focus on railways could revolutionize the way we move around.
Zach highlights the limitations of our current system, noting, "There's no long-distance travel competition, except for driving, which takes a long time and is expensive based on gas." Airlines almost enjoy a monopoly on long-distance travel, partly because the U.S. has historically underinvested in its rail infrastructure. Zach expands, “Most of the long-distance trains share track with freight, and the freight is prioritized." This leads to frequent delays and an unreliable passenger train network.
As Hannah pointed out, the lack of competition means Americans often face frustrations when traveling: "But in a world where we have railroads and we can just ride the train, and these seats are so much larger and we're comfortable and have more leg room, I don't have to worry about someone snuggling up to me who I don't know." The conversation circles to the heart of the matter: Why hasn't the U.S. invested more in rail infrastructure? Zach mentions, "We transitioned to a car-centric economy in the 1950s... Rail just fell on the wayside, and people stopped using it."
An intriguing aspect that Hannah brings up is the heavy subsidization of the airline industry. She says, "Another really big reason why airlines dominate is because the government subsidizes the airline industry heavily." This, combined with America's car-centric approach, has created an environment where there's a significant barrier to efficient, sustainable, and affordable travel.
But beyond travel efficiency, the conversation dives deeper into the societal implications. Hannah touches on how modern infrastructure design affects social interactions: "Suburbia and the urban sprawl... Makes it hard for me to meet new people and make friends because I'm not sitting next to someone on the train. I'm not walking down to a local library to go study." The sprawling, disconnected design of many American cities discourages community engagement and interactions, leading to a more isolated society.
In contrasting the travel experience, Zach emphasizes the comforts of train travel: "They're not charging you for every little item you're bringing on... And you know what the best part is? They're connected into the city. They're integrated into the city. So you get into the city and you can walk around. And they also have legroom, which is really important."
In conclusion, the episode is a wake-up call. While planes might get us to our destination faster, the overall convenience, safety, and benefits of train travel, especially high-speed rail, can't be ignored. As Zach sums it up, "Safer, more luxurious. I'm going to be in Spain in, uh, next month. My high-speed rail ticket was only half the price compared to what it would have been to fly."
The future of American travel might very well lie on tracks, not in the skies. The conversation that Zach and Hannah initiated is an essential one, not only for the future of transportation but for the way we envision our cities, communities, and connections with each other.
Action Steps
Contact your member of congress to say you are a constituent who supports rail projects.
Click here to contact your House Representative
Click here to contact your Senator
Join: Citizens Climate Lobby Conservatives
Listen: EcoRight Speaks Podcast, a project of RebulicEN
Contact Us
email: info @ greenteapartyradio.com
website: https://www.greenteapartyradio.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTeaPartyRadio/
![Hail Marys and Healthy Planets: A Conservative Catholic Climate Catechism](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/17011180/GTPR_LOGO_FINAL_JPG_x9sb6g_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Hail Marys and Healthy Planets: A Conservative Catholic Climate Catechism
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Green Tea Party explores faith's impact on environmental views, emphasizes preservation and religious connection to stewardship.
On this episode of the Green Tea Party, Katie Zakrzewski and Zach Torpie dive into the topic of faith and its impact on our views on the environment. They begin by highlighting the significance of Pope Francis' recent announcement of a follow-up document to his encyclical letter on caring for creation. They note that while Christian denominations generally agree on the importance of caring for God's creation, politics and misinformation often complicate the issue. (News Report from Fox News affiliate)
As the conversation progresses, Zach, who grew up as an Episcopalian, shares his thoughts on faith and the environment. He explains that his faith transitioned from believing in the one true God to believing in the system that has been created. He emphasizes the importance of preserving and not destroying what has been created for us, stating that if there is a God, He would not appreciate us polluting and destroying the environment. Zach believes that we should be mindful of the impact we have on the planet and the future generations who won't get to enjoy it if we don't take action.
The hosts then delve into the connection between religious beliefs and environmental stewardship, noting that for many, the motivation to protect the environment may come from a sense of moral obligation and gratitude for what we have been given. They stress the responsibility humans have as the ultimate apex predator to protect and respect the life that exists and evolves on the planet. They also highlight the importance of preserving nature for future generations to experience and enjoy.
Moving beyond religious beliefs, Katie and Zach emphasize that conserving the environment is a matter of pride, morality, and doing what is morally right. They discuss the need for a dialogue that includes everyone, as the environmental challenge affects us all. The hosts also express frustration with climate deniers and emphasize the importance of individuals taking ownership of their impact on the environment and becoming better stewards of God's creations.
In discussing the involvement of conservative politics in the climate and environmental movement, the hosts mention the practical approach of utilizing established religious institutions and communities. They highlight the role of religious leaders and documents like Laudato Si' in raising awareness and inspiring action. They also stress the importance of overcoming political barriers and recognizing the bigger picture of being good humans and taking care of the planet.
Action Steps
If you're a person of faith, find out what your church or denomination has to say about creation care or about the environment and share that on social media.
If they don't have a stance on this right to a leader in your church and share your thoughts with them
Join: Citizens Climate Lobby Conservatives
Listen: EcoRight Speaks Podcast, a project of RebulicEN
Contact Us
email: info @ greenteapartyradio.com
website: https://www.greenteapartyradio.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTeaPartyRadio/
![Conservative Confessions: I Hugged a Tree and Liked It!](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/17011180/GTPR_LOGO_FINAL_JPG_x9sb6g_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Conservative Confessions: I Hugged a Tree and Liked It!
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
In Episode 5 of Green Tea Party Radio, Katie, Zach, and Hannah dive deep into the tension-filled intersection of conservative beliefs and environmental advocacy. Katie shares her transformation from a staunch climate denier rooted in her traditional Southern upbringing to an environmental advocate passionate about bridging the gap for conservatives. Katie admits, "I used to be a lot further right than I am right now... Climate change is not real. Climate change is a big government conspiracy used by scientists to have an excuse to tax you." She goes on to discuss the difference she sees between environmentalism and climate activism.
Hannah weighs in on the struggle of feeling like climate change was a tool the :eft used to belittle those on the Right, questioning, "What is it like to be in the mind of a conservative? What are your values?" She also speaks of her faith as a motivator in her work. Like Katie, Hannah is pro-life, which means more than just what happens in the womb.
Meanwhile, Zach highlights the importance of individualism in conservativism and voices his admiration for Teddy Roosevelt as the "first truly great conservationist president." Zach poignantly states, "As a conservative, it's important to be individualistic, but to put a hand down to help the person below you. And I think with animals, they have no voice... So it's important as a conservative and environmentalist to put your hand down and help lift them up."
This episode challenges the narrative around conservativism and environmentalism, urging listeners to realize, as Hannah puts it, "The best environmental advocacy and the best environmental efforts happen on small local scales." Join the conversation to uncover the synergy between conservative values and environmental stewardship.
This episode also includes a Yellowstone Park Commercial and Drew Eyerly, CCL's Director of Conservative Outreach, on how he decided to take action for climate after growing up in a deeply conservative family in rural Georgia.
Action Steps
Read: The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion by Jonathan Haidt. https://righteousmind.com/
Join: Citizens Climate Lobby Conservatives
Listen: EcoRight Speaks Podcast, a project of RebulicEN
Contact Us
email: info@greenteapartyradio.com
website: https://www.greenteapartyradio.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTeaPartyRadio/posts
![Flirting with Sustainability: Conservatives’ Sensual Self-Reliance](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/17011180/GTPR_LOGO_FINAL_JPG_x9sb6g_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
Flirting with Sustainability: Conservatives’ Sensual Self-Reliance
Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
Hosts Hannah Rogers and Zach Torpie introduce the episode's theme of self-reliance within environmentalism, highlighting how conservative values align with environmental consciousness and emphasize the role of individual responsibility in environmental preservation.
They delve into the contemporary state of energy consumption in the United States and explore feasible green alternatives to foster energy independence. Zach provides insight into the average American's energy bill and pinpoints heating and cooling systems as significant contributors to energy consumption, highlighting the importance of improving household efficiency through better insulation.
Hannah brings attention to an often-overlooked energy-saving method: painting rooftops white to reflect sunlight and reduce cooling costs, a practice she relates back to ancient Greece. The discussion then navigates through the prospect of utilizing rooftop solar panels and the bureaucratic challenges this poses in different regions of the United States compared to other countries like Australia. Zach points out the stark differences in solar panel installations in Australia and the US, emphasizing the bureaucratic hindrances that inflate costs and delay permits in the States.
The episode navigates the pushback against environmentalism from big energy corporations and addresses the contradictions within the conservative value of self-reliance and their stance against environmentalism. Hannah voices her desire for a simple, off-the-grid lifestyle focused on self-reliance and environmental conservation, using solar energy and sustainable living practices to avoid reliance on fossil fuels.
The hosts also touch upon innovations in battery technology that could potentially amplify the efficiency of green energy solutions and emphasize the importance of self-reliance in preserving individual privacy. They explore the changing dynamics between reliance on fossil fuels and the adoption of sustainable energy alternatives, with Hannah and Zach arguing for a swift transition to renewable energy sources.
Listen in as Hannah and Zach delve deep into energy independence, drawing connections between conservative values, environmental consciousness, and self-reliance, and offering insights into how the average person can embrace a more sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle.
Contact Us
email: info@greenteapartyradio.com
website: https://www.greenteapartyradio.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTeaPartyRadio/posts
![The Eco Right Speaks: A Candid Chat with Chelsea Henderson on Conservative Climate Change Action](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/17011180/GTPR_LOGO_FINAL_JPG_x9sb6g_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Sep 19, 2023
Tuesday Sep 19, 2023
In this episode of Green Tea Radio, environmental policy expert Chelsea Henderson joins the hosts to discuss conservative perspectives on environmental issues, especially climate change. Chelsea is republicEn’s Director of Editorial Content, and host of the EcoRight Speaks podcast
Key Quotes
"You had this really interesting dynamic where you had Vice President Gore pushing for everglades restoration, Jeb Bush pushing for everglades restoration... We can do hard issues, even if we don't agree 100% on everything else around us."
"We know that some of the division, the divisiveness is amplified by the media and that, in our hearts, I think 80% of us agree on 80% of stuff."
"What banks are going to give mortgages to people who want to buy homes in Florida if there's no home insurance in Florida? We're talking about an issue that isn't just an environmental issue, it's an economic issue, it's a public health issue, it's an agricultural issue."
"Congressman John Curtis from Utah always says we have to be at the table or we're on the menu."
Key Quotes
"You had this really interesting dynamic where you had Vice President Gore pushing for everglades restoration, Jeb Bush pushing for everglades restoration... We can do hard issues, even if we don't agree 100% on everything else around us."
"We know that some of the division, the divisiveness is amplified by the media and that, in our hearts, I think 80% of us agree on 80% of stuff."
"What banks are going to give mortgages to people who want to buy homes in Florida if there's no home insurance in Florida? We're talking about an issue that isn't just an environmental issue, it's an economic issue, it's a public health issue, it's an agricultural issue."
"Congressman John Curtis from Utah always says we have to be at the table or we're on the menu."
"Where we come in @republicanEn.org is to try to say, hey, there are some free market, solutions out there that conservative economists say will work, by the way, you know what? People on the left will buy into them too."
Links
ABC Breaking News 2000 Election December 12 Gore v. Bush Supreme Court Decision
House of Representatives Conservative Climate Caucus the CCC believes climate change is a pressing issue, exacerbated by global industrialization, but solvable through private sector innovation and market-driven solutions that focus on emissions reduction rather than limiting energy options. On the action side, the organization educates House Republicans on climate policies aligned with conservative values, organizes delegations to understand related technologies and issues, conducts briefings on conservative climate proposals, and actively opposes radical progressive climate proposals.
Losing Earth by Nathaniel Rich - This book focuses on the history of climate change activism, particularly in the '80s when the Senate began to look into the issue. Chelsea Henderson recommends it for those interested in the historical background of the climate change movement.
One Green Thing by Heather White - Heather White is a friend of Chelsea and has also been a guest on "The Eco Right Speaks." Her book is aimed at helping individuals discover their "superpower" in climate activism by breaking down the issue into actionable tasks.
Glacial: The Inside Story of Climate Politics by Chelsea Henderson. (August 2024)
Citizens Climate Lobby Carbon Fee & Dividend policy proposal.
Chelsea explains that she initially fell into the environmental realm as she was assigned to cover environmental issues during her time on Capitol Hill with Senator Susan Collins. She later joined the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, where she worked on projects like the Everglades restoration and observed a more cooperative environment than what exists today. She believes the committee had many committed environmentalists, regardless of their party affiliations, but noticed that a shift occurred towards deregulation in the mid-90s, making the environment a more divisive issue.
Chelsea also argues that climate change should be seen as a conservative issue, emphasizing the economic, public health, and agricultural repercussions of ignoring the problem. She points out that transitioning to a clean energy economy is consistent with conservative values, such as property rights and risk aversion. Moreover, she sees the importance of conservatives coming to the table with their own solutions, particularly free-market solutions, rather than simply rejecting proposals from the left. Chelsea highlights that a united, bipartisan effort is essential to tackling the climate crisis effectively.
The episode also touched on specific policy approaches Chelsea supports, like carbon pricing and solar panels, as well as her upcoming book on climate politics. Overall, the conversation provides a comprehensive look at the complexities and possibilities for conservatives in the environmental conversation, urging for a return to cooperation and bipartisan solutions for the challenges ahead.
Contact Us
email: info@greenteapartyradio.com
website: https://www.greenteapartyradio.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTeaPartyRadio/posts
![Petroleum & Pumpkin Spice: How Our Reliance on Foreign Oil Compromises America’s Future](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/17011180/GTPR_LOGO_FINAL_JPG_x9sb6g_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Sep 12, 2023
Tuesday Sep 12, 2023
Petroleum & Pumpkin Spice: How Our Reliance on Foreign Oil Compromises America's Future
Join hosts Hannah, Zach, and Katie for a lively episode of "The Green Tea Party." After toasting to Hannah's 22nd birthday, the trio tackles America's dependency on foreign oil with a whimsical twist: What if our economy ran on pumpkin spice lattes from authoritarian regimes? Tune in to hear why they think it's time for the U.S. to brew its own solutions to energy and environmental issues. 🍵🎉
In this episode, we discuss:
The Hidden Costs of Securing Oil: Zach opens the discussion by talking about the trillions of dollars spent on military interventions to protect oil supplies, suggesting that this money could have been better invested in American infrastructure and people. Related Resource: Costs of War Project
Economic Vulnerabilities: Hannah and Zach discuss how our reliance on OPEC, which controls over 80% of the world's crude oil reserves, makes Americans vulnerable to price fluctuations at the pump. Related Resource: OPEC Annual Statistical Bulletin
The Human Toll: The hosts discuss the non-monetary costs of military engagement, from loss of life to creating long-term animosity abroad.
Morality & Human Rights: Hannah sheds light on how American oil dollars indirectly support oppressive regimes in rentier states, leading to human rights abuses and wealth disparities.
The China Factor: Zach touches on the shifting allegiances as Middle Eastern nations find a more reliable partner in China, potentially sidelining the United States. Related Resource: China’s Belt and Road Initiative
Economic Opportunities in Clean Energy: Katie passionately advocates for the untapped economic potential in adopting renewable energy sources like solar and wind, recounting her experience in successfully lobbying for solar energy in Arkansas.
The Way Forward: Zach argues for saving fossil fuels for specific, high-energy needs like space exploration, signaling the need for a thoughtful, balanced approach. Related Resource: Energy Density in Space Exploration
Katie's Soapbox: A standing feature where Katie offers her perspective on the intertwined issues of economics, national security, and morality in America's oil dilemma.
Key Takeaways:
Moving away from foreign oil can benefit America in terms of national security, economic stability, and moral integrity.
A switch to renewable energy is not just eco-friendly but also economically viable.
The urgency to act is greater than ever, given the limited availability of fossil fuels and the ethical implications of supporting oppressive regimes.
Listen in as we unpack this complex issue, blending rigorous analysis with engaging conversation to keep you informed and empowered.
Contact Us
email: info@greenteapartyradio.com
website: https://www.greenteapartyradio.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTeaPartyRadio/posts
![Nuclear Energy – The Conservative’s Clean Safe Alternative](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/17011180/GTPR_LOGO_FINAL_JPG_x9sb6g_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Sep 12, 2023
Nuclear Energy – The Conservative’s Clean Safe Alternative
Tuesday Sep 12, 2023
Tuesday Sep 12, 2023
Welcome to the inaugural episode of Green Tea Party! Meet your hosts, Zach Torpie, Hannah Rogers, and Katie Zakrzewski, as they blend conservative viewpoints with environmental consciousness.
In this episode, we dive deep into the often misunderstood topic of nuclear energy and explore how it can be a clean, efficient, and American-based energy solution. We're debunking myths, challenging narratives, and aiming to bring you the unbiased facts.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction: Meet Zach, Hannah, and Katie and learn why they are passionate about blending conservative values with a love for the environment.
What is the Green Tea Party: An introduction to the show’s ethos and purpose.
The Controversy of Nuclear Energy: An overview of nuclear energy and its significance in the political landscape.
Our Personal Connections: Hear about Zach’s experience growing up next to a nuclear power plant and Hannah's early influences that drew her into environmental advocacy.
Three Mile Island Incident: Understand what went wrong and how human error was more of an issue than the technology itself.
Myths and Facts: Debunking common myths around nuclear energy safety and discussing potential advantages.
The Future of Nuclear Energy: How modern innovations and conservative ideologies can make nuclear energy the green solution America needs. [00:42:33]
Resources:
Inconvenient Truth Trailer
Citizens Climate Lobby
Three Mile Island Accident – A Detailed Account
WNEP TV News – Three Mile Island Coverage
Oppenheimer Movie Trailer
Contact Us
email: info@greenteapartyradio.com
website: https://www.greenteapartyradio.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTeaPartyRadio/posts
Acknowledgments:
We'd like to thank our production team for putting this episode together and to our listeners for joining us in this important dialogue.
Calls to Action:
Subscribe and leave us a review!
Send us your questions or topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes.
Don’t forget to follow us on social media!
We look forward to having you join the Green Tea Party! Grab your mugs; it's time to pour the tea. 🍵
Make sure to tune in for next week's episode, where we discuss conservative approaches to renewable energy sources. Stay tuned!
![Presenting Green Tea Party Radio with Katie, Hannah, and Zach](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog17011180/GTPR_LOGO_FINAL_JPG9ry10_300x300.jpg)
Thursday Sep 07, 2023
Presenting Green Tea Party Radio with Katie, Hannah, and Zach
Thursday Sep 07, 2023
Thursday Sep 07, 2023
Katie: Are you a young conservative who's passionate about the environment? Introducing "Green Tea Party Radio" – the show that blends conservative solutions with environmental advocacy.
Hannah: Hey there, I'm Hannah!
Zach: And I'm Zach.
Katie: I'm Katie. Join us every week as we discuss how conservatives can champion energy independence, tackle climate change, and create clean energy sector jobs, all while staying true to our values.
hannah: Get ready to pour the tea and join the Green Tea Party. Tune in and engage with thought-provoking discussions that matter to you. Subscribe today and visit www.Greenteapartyradio.com
![Image](https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/mfzvtb/pexels-needtofly-9000185_1_c1c18e1a-30cf-74de-b4eb-267e5d2baff9.jpg)
Green Tea Party Radio
The Green Tea Party Radio Show is made by young conservatives for young conservatives. We tackle complex environmental questions through a conservative lens and give you tips on how to engage in the conservative environmental sphere. We are Hannah Rogers, Zach Torpie, and Katie Zakrzewski.
Each week we serve the tea and have fun doing it, even if we mostly drink coffee and energy drinks. Oh, and we are cat people. Visit us at Greenteapartyradio.com. This is our passion & we are doing it without being tied to any organiaation. You can support us, join the community, and get perks through the GTPR Patreon.