Green Tea Party Radio

Conservative Stewardship and the Future of Energy: Insights from David Jenkins

In the latest episode of Green Tea Party Radio, we had the privilege of hosting David Jenkins, the esteemed president of Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship. Renowned for his profound experience and respected across political aisles, Jenkins shared invaluable insights on environmental conservation and energy policy from a conservative perspective.
David Jenkins: A Voice of Experience and Reason:With years of experience under various administrations, including the Reagan era, David Jenkins brought to our show a wealth of knowledge. His perspective on environmental goals and bipartisan efforts in policy-making highlights the importance of pragmatism in addressing climate and energy challenges.
Embracing Market-Driven Solutions:Jenkins emphasized the need for conservatives to support market-based solutions. He illustrated how the energy market is currently favoring renewable sources like solar, wind, and nuclear energy over traditional coal and natural gas. This market trend aligns well with conservative values of economic prudence and efficiency. Jenkins encourages conservatives to follow market signals, even when they favor renewable energy, showcasing a commitment to free-market principles.
The Case for Clean Energy Standards:Jenkins advocated for state-level clean energy standards as a pragmatic approach to ensure a transition to low-emission energy sources. By setting future clean energy targets, utilities are guided to invest in technologies that align with these goals, fostering innovation without immediate disruption to existing infrastructure.
Conservative Messaging on Environmental Policy:Jenkins pointed out the necessity for updated and accurate messaging around environmental policies. The shift in the energy market towards cheaper renewable sources contradicts the dated narrative that environmental responsibility comes at a financial cost. This new reality presents an opportunity for conservatives to reframe the conversation on environmental policy.
Advice to Young Conservatives:For young conservatives passionate about environmental issues, Jenkins’ advice was clear and powerful: be bold, engage with skeptics, and underpin arguments with core conservative values. He stressed the importance of active participation in discussions and policymaking to influence change effectively.
Fostering a Responsible Future:As the interview concluded, Jenkins shared personal anecdotes and quotes that resonate with the need for a balanced relationship with nature. His favorite national park, Glacier National Park, and quotes from T.S. Eliot and Edmund Burke beautifully encapsulate the conservative philosophy of stewardship and responsibility.
Conclusion:David Jenkins’ insights offer a refreshing and pragmatic conservative perspective on environmental stewardship and energy policy. His emphasis on market-driven solutions and the importance of accurate messaging are crucial takeaways for anyone interested in a conservative approach to environmental issues. As Jenkins aptly demonstrates, conservative values can and should play a vital role in shaping our approach to climate change and energy policy.
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Preserving Our Legacy: David Jenkins on Conservative Environmentalism

In this episode of the Green Tea Party radio show, hosts Zach Torpie and Katie Zakrzewski, along with their guest David Jenkins, President of Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship, dive into a fascinating conversation about conservative solutions to environmental problems.
David Jenkins shares his journey as a lifelong conservative and environmentalist. His love for the great outdoors and passion for responsible stewardship of nature's wonders resonate deeply with his conservative values. He recalls, “I grew up hunting, fishing, and enjoying the great American wilderness, which has been a part of my life as long as I can remember.”
David has worked for CRS, or its predecessor organization REP America (REP), since 2005. For much of that time he served as Vice President for Government & Political Affairs for REP. He has been instrumental in numerous organizational and legislative accomplishments. David has written and spoken extensively about many of today’s most pressing environmental issues, conservatism, our nation’s conservation heritage and American politics.  His writing has appeared in dozens of newspapers and other publications. Prior to CRS and REP, David was the American Canoe Association’s Director of Conservation and Public Policy for 10 years, and before that was on the legislative staff for Senator Pete Domenici (R-NM). He holds a B.A. in Political Science from Furman University. (Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship)
The conversation takes an intriguing turn when discussing the shift in conservative engagement with environmental issues. Jenkins observes, "In the 1980s, plenty of conservatives, including hunters and hikers, cared passionately about the environment. Only more recently, these issues are being put on the back burner, influenced heavily by disinformation from special interests."
This observation opens the door to a critical discussion about the historical roots of environmental stewardship within conservative ideology. Jenkins highlights a forgotten truth: “All of our landmark environmental laws – Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act – are Republican ideas and passed by huge Republican majorities.”
The show underscores the need for conservatives to reclaim their role in environmental advocacy. Jenkins argues, “It's actually acting against self-interest if you don't care about these issues.” He emphasizes the importance of conservative engagement, stating, “If we cede issues like climate change to the left, we have to live with their solutions. We need conservative solutions to these problems.”
In a powerful call to action, Jenkins encourages listeners to educate themselves and engage in advocacy. His book recommendation, The Conservative Mind by Russell Kirk, serves as a foundational text for understanding true conservative values and their alignment with environmental stewardship. You can read it for free at the Kirk Center website. 
As the hosts conclude, they offer practical steps for listeners to get involved, like writing to members of Congress and educating oneself on key issues. This episode of the Green Tea Party radio not only provides a fresh perspective on environmental issues but also empowers listeners to take meaningful action, bridging the gap between conservative values and environmental activism.
This episode of the Green Tea Party radio is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of conservatism and environmentalism. It challenges preconceived notions and opens up a dialogue for new, responsible ways to approach environmental stewardship. Tune in to discover how conservative values can lead the way in protecting our planet for future generations.
 

Elephants, Donkeys, and Liberal Therapists: Young Conservatives and Mental Health

In this episode we discuss why conservatives report being happier than liberals. They explore several reasons including the role of religiosity, community, and values such as stability, personal responsibility, and agency. The conversation touches on the impact of being proactive and having a sense of control over one's life as factors contributing to conservatives' happiness. They suggest that conservative ideology may also foster resilience to adversity and a more constructive response to societal issues like inequality and climate change. Moreover, they critique liberal approaches to activism, emphasizing the need for actionable and lasting changes over symbolic gestures. Katie and Hannah argue that personal responsibility is crucial in environmentalism, promoting individual action rather than succumbing to feelings of futility.
They said what??
"How is chanting something that y'all made up on the way here in the car conducive to long-term change?" -Katie
"There's a lot of data to back up that conservatives are generally happier than liberals are. I mean, I've had my own mental health struggles in my life, and I'm sure you have too, Katie, but just knowing that conservatives tend to be a little bit happier than liberals kind of makes me wonder, why is that?" -Hannah
"Conservative people believe that what they do matters and there's less of a sense of futility. And I feel like that's a really valuable asset when it comes to climate change." -Hannah
Important Links
How to Understand the Well-Being Gap between Liberals and Conservatives by Musa al-Gharbi (American Affairs Journal) 
The article discusses the well-documented well-being gap between liberals and conservatives, focusing on the influence of political ideology on mental health. It explores the reasons behind this gap and the potential impact of the "Great Awokening," a cultural shift towards progressive ideals, on the mental well-being of both liberals and conservatives. The article suggests that while liberalism correlates with higher rates of mental distress, conservatism tends to promote happiness and meaning in life. It examines possible factors, such as genetics, biology, and the influence of liberal ideology on mental health.
 
Key Points:
Conservatives Are Happier: The article highlights a consistent trend in happiness levels, with conservatives generally reporting higher levels of happiness and meaning in their lives compared to liberals. This pattern extends across different age groups and geographical contexts.
Possible Explanations for the Happiness Gap: Several theories are presented to explain why conservatives tend to be happier. These include the influence of religiosity, patriotism, marriage, attractiveness, health, and cognitive ability. Some suggest that conservatives' focus on personal responsibility and agency contributes to their happiness.
Challenges to the Privilege Narrative: The article challenges the idea that the happiness gap is solely due to privilege, as wealth increasingly correlates with liberal political views. Immigrants, minorities, and senior citizens, who may not fit the privilege narrative, also experience happiness benefits from conservatism.
Resilience and Adversity: Conservatism and related factors like religiosity and patriotism may help individuals make sense of and respond constructively to adversity and inequality, regardless of their social standing.
In summary, the article explores the persistent happiness gap between conservatives and liberals, offering various perspectives on why this gap exists and challenging the notion that privilege alone explains the difference in well-being. It suggests that conservatism and related ideologies may provide individuals with tools to navigate challenges and maintain happiness, especially in the face of adversity.
 
Politics seep into daily life, negatively affecting mental health (American Psychological Association) 
The article discusses research published by the American Psychological Association that examines the impact of daily political news on people's mental health and well-being, as well as the potential trade-offs between personal well-being and political engagement. Here's a summary of the key points and action steps someone can take to look after their mental health in the context of political stress:
Summary:
- Daily exposure to political news can negatively affect individuals' mental health and well-being.
- While strategies like distracting oneself from political news can help manage negative emotions, they may reduce motivation to engage in political causes.
- The study found that thinking about daily political events often evokes negative emotions, leading to worse psychological and physical health but greater motivation to take political action.
- Strategies such as distraction and cognitive reappraisal can help manage negative emotions, but they may indirectly reduce the desire to participate in political activities.
- Politics has a significant daily impact on many Americans' health and well-being.
- Activists and individuals need to find strategies to protect their own well-being without compromising collective well-being.
Braver Angels is leading the nation’s largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement to change our politics for the better. Through community gatherings, real debates, and grassroots leaders working together, we’re offering America what it needs to overcome the bitterness of our partisan divide.
How to Take Care of Yourself in the Midst of Partisan Politics
Conservatives concerned about environmental issues face unique challenges in a predominantly liberal age group. To be effective advocates for their beliefs and well-being, they should consider the following specific considerations:
Educate Yourself: Ensure you have a strong understanding of conservative environmental policies and principles. This will enable you to articulate your views clearly and engage in informed discussions.
Seek Like-Minded Communities: Look for conservative environmental groups or organizations where you can connect with individuals who share your beliefs and values. This can provide a supportive community and opportunities for collaboration.
Bridge Building: Consider finding common ground with liberals on environmental issues. Emphasize shared goals like clean air and water, conservation, and sustainable resource management to foster productive discussions.
Resilience and Self-Care: Understand that advocating for a less mainstream position can be emotionally taxing. Practice self-care and resilience-building techniques to maintain your well-being in the face of potential alienation or criticism.
Effective Communication: Hone your communication skills to effectively convey your conservative environmental stance. Focus on presenting evidence-based arguments and framing issues in a way that resonates with your audience.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of current environmental developments, research, and policy changes. Being well-informed allows you to respond to new information and adapt your advocacy efforts accordingly.
Advocate for Conservative Solutions: Actively promote conservative policies and solutions for environmental challenges. Be prepared to propose and support initiatives that align with your beliefs.
Build Alliances: Seek opportunities to collaborate with individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds who share your environmental concerns. Building alliances can amplify your advocacy efforts.
Respect Differences: Recognize that people have varying perspectives, and it's essential to respect differing viewpoints even when engaging in passionate debates about environmental issues.
Persistence: Understand that advocacy for conservative environmentalism may require persistence and a long-term commitment. Change often takes time, and perseverance can lead to positive outcomes.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate your commitment to conservative environmental values through personal actions, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable practices in your daily life.
Stay True to Your Values: Don't compromise your core beliefs to fit in with a particular group or ideology. Authenticity in your advocacy is crucial.
Remember that advocating for conservative environmentalism in a predominantly liberal environment can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity to contribute a unique perspective to the conversation. By taking care of yourself and staying committed to your values, you can be a more effective advocate for conservative environmental principles.

Shein Dresses, Prosperity Gospels, and Jesus the Environmentalist

In this episode of Green Tea Party Radio, the hosts, Hannah and Katie, discuss the intersection of faith and environmentalism. Hannah shares her perspective as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and how her faith has influenced her environmental work. She highlights the importance of the Word of Wisdom, a health and ethical code in her church, which encourages moderation in meat consumption. Hannah's love for animals and her belief in Jesus Christ's teachings on compassion play a significant role in her commitment to environmentalism.
 "I think a lot about gratitude and how the more gratitude I practice, the less insecure I am and the more I recognize how much of a blessing it is to be alive." - Hannah
The conversation also delves into the role of religion in promoting environmental awareness and community engagement. Both hosts emphasize the need for religious institutions to focus on the core values of love, compassion, and community rather than material wealth. They discuss how churches can serve as platforms for environmental initiatives, bringing people together and fostering connections that can lead to positive change.
“Just go sit out in nature, dude. Just sit by a lake for a while and look at the stuff, and you'll feel better, and it's free." -Katie
Moral Issues Raised in the Episode
Materialism and Consumerism: The episode discusses the negative impact of materialism and consumerism on the environment, highlighting the wastefulness and exploitation associated with excessive consumption.
Ego and Social Media: The hosts discuss how social media can contribute to ego-driven behavior, where individuals seek validation and self-worth through material possessions and online attention.
Gratitude and Fulfillment: The importance of practicing gratitude and finding fulfillment in simpler aspects of life is emphasized as an alternative to materialistic pursuits.
Religious Values and Environmental Responsibility: The episode explores the connection between faith, compassion, and environmental stewardship, raising questions about the role of religious institutions in promoting environmental awareness and action.
Injustice and Exploitation: The hosts highlight the injustice and exploitation associated with fast fashion and the production of goods in a manner that harms vulnerable and impoverished populations.
Summary Outline for Action Steps
Promote Gratitude and Simplicity: Encourage individuals to practice gratitude for the simple joys of life and recognize the finite nature of unique experiences. Emphasize that fulfillment can be found in appreciating everyday blessings.
Raise Awareness: Educate individuals about the environmental impact of consumerism, particularly in areas like fast fashion and excessive online shopping.
Community Engagement: Encourage participation in environmental initiatives within religious communities, such as trail cleanups, clean air challenges, and other sustainability efforts.
Environmental Advocacy: Advocate for the integration of environmental values and principles within religious teachings and institutions, fostering a sense of responsibility for environmental stewardship among faith communities.
Respect for Creation: Emphasize the importance of respecting and caring for the natural world as a reflection of faith values and a moral obligation.
Challenging Materialism: Promote a shift away from materialistic pursuits and the constant need for more, highlighting the potential for a more meaningful and sustainable life when one values simplicity and gratitude.
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Tomato Soup Stunts vs. Climate Reality: A Candid Discussion

In a world where climate change and environmental concerns are increasingly part of the national discourse, it's crucial to explore how conservative values align with activism in this space. Hannah and Zach, two dynamic new voices in the conservative movement engage in a thought-provoking podcast conversation about climate activism. 
The Tomato Soup Scenario:
The conversation kicks off with a playful hypothetical scenario: what if someone threw tomato soup onto a priceless piece of art in your home? Hannah and Zach bring a conservative perspective to this thought experiment, underscoring the connection between this bizarre act and the importance of climate change. 
Conservative Values in Climate Activism:
Hannah and Zach navigate the landscape of climate activism through a conservative lens. They discuss how conservative principles like limited government intervention, personal responsibility, and local control can play a vital role in crafting effective climate policies. They emphasize that climate action doesn't have to mean sacrificing conservative values; rather, it can align with them.
Local Engagement and Environmental Stewardship:
One of the core themes of the conversation is the power of local engagement and environmental stewardship. Hannah and Zach highlight the importance of acting at the community level. Whether it's supporting local initiatives, advocating for cleaner energy solutions, or conserving natural resources, they showcase how conservative principles can be applied to address climate challenges.
Effective Conversations with Lawmakers:
The hosts stress the significance of conservatives engaging in meaningful conversations with lawmakers. They encourage fellow conservatives to voice their concerns and ideas about climate policies, fostering a constructive dialogue. The message is clear: conservatives can be active participants in shaping climate-related legislation that aligns with their values.
Practical Activism Over Self-Congratulation:
Hannah and Zach critique forms of activism that prioritize self-congratulation over tangible results. They advocate for practical activism that focuses on real-world solutions and outcomes rather than seeking recognition. Their approach aligns with conservative values of efficiency and effectiveness.
Conclusion:
Hannah and Zach's conversation offers a fresh perspective on climate activism from a conservative standpoint. It's a reminder that individuals with conservative values can play a meaningful role in addressing climate change without compromising their principles.
In a time when climate action requires broad support across the political spectrum, their discussion provides a blueprint for young conservatives eager to make a difference. By embracing local engagement, fostering conversations with lawmakers, and prioritizing practical solutions, conservatives can be influential agents of positive change in the realm of climate activism.

Keeping It On Track: The Conservative Case for Choosing Rails Over Air

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
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Hail Marys and Healthy Planets: A Conservative Catholic Climate Catechism

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
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Conservative Confessions: I Hugged a Tree and Liked It!

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
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