"Why would you bring climate up at a BBQ?"
We were prepping for a How on Earth? LIVE! show around the question: "How can I bring up climate in the group chat?"
And then one of my cast members — a climate professional — stopped me cold.
How on earth do we give this a makeover?
Let's move through it together.
Start with "Notice"...
What happens when you read this question?
Maybe you feel a flicker of "...good point, actually." Maybe you've been at a BBQ and felt the same way… this isn't the place, these aren't the people, this isn't the moment.
Maybe you feel a little defensive. Like someone just questioned the one place you were actually going to try.
Whatever's showing up, just notice it's there.
CONNECT
Here’s what’s underneath the question: a belief that climate conversations only belong in places deemed “climate.” Conferences. Newsletters. Activism. Places where everyone already agrees.
And what’s interesting is that Weaver already knows that’s not how change moves. Research is clear: the people closest to us have more influence than any expert, any campaign, any headline.
So if not at the BBQ — where? Grassroots is where movements root. Community settings is the only place it could actually happen for many people.
TRY
This week, try this:
Think about one informal space in your life… a group chat, a family dinner, a walk with a friend. A space where you already belong.
Now ask: “What's one thing about climate that actually connects to something we already talk about in this space?” Food. Weather. The neighborhood. Kids. Work.
Find the thread.
Not every gathering needs to turn into a climate meeting. Just like it’s not for any topic.
& REPEAT
Watch for this pattern elsewhere.
Notice when you assume climate “can’t” be talked about. And giggle at what assume means… “ass out of u & me.”
Then notice where climate can come up – just like you would any other important relationship in your life like parents, kids, partners, job, pets, etc.
In Community,
Amber Peoples
Creator of Earth Archetypes
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