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Rising Tides
"Rising Tides" delves into the intersection of environmental issues and social justice. In this podcast, I speak with activists, scientists, policymakers, and community leaders at the forefront of the movement for a fair and sustainable world. From the impacts of climate change on marginalized communities to innovative solutions and policy changes, this podcast sheds light on the struggles and triumphs in the quest for environmental justice.
Rising Tides
Episode 15: Where Do We Go From Here? - A Conversation with Dr. Jalonne White-Newsome
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jalonne White-Newsome for a powerful reflection on her journey into environmental justice and the experiences that shaped her work at the highest levels of federal policy. She walks us through the four cornerstone initiatives she helped lead at the White House: Justice40, the Environmental Justice Scorecard, the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool, and the Environmental Justice Executive Order, and how her diverse background lets her see environmental justice from many angles, combining both science and community insight.
As we discuss the loss of federal support under the new administration, Dr. White-Newsome offers practical advice: stay connected, stay engaged, and keep pushing for justice. And for young people who might be feeling discouraged, she leaves a hopeful message about focusing on what it takes to build the world we want for the future.
Dr. Jalonne White-Newsome is an Associate Professor in the Environmental Justice Specialization at the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability. She began her career as a chemical engineer and has worked across multiple sectors including grassroots organizing, philanthropy, state government, and academia. She founded Empowering a Green Environment and Economy, LLC to advance public health, racial equity, and environmental justice. From 2022 to 2025, she served as the first Federal Chief Environmental Justice Officer, leading the White House Office of Environmental Justice and helping drive the Biden-Harris Administration’s equity and climate initiatives.
Learn more about Dr. White-Newsome here.