In this episode, host Billy Riggs talks with Dr. John (Hans) Gilderbloom who shares his personal journey and insights on housing policy, community engagement, and the health impacts of pollution, along with his wife Carla Snyder who talks about their forthcoming documentary Climate of Hope. The conversation explores the intersection of climate change, urbanism, and social justice, emphasizing the role of technology in addressing environmental challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of creating sustainable solutions that consider the needs of underserved communities and the potential of technology to drive change.

Takeaways

- AI and innovation can significantly enhance environmental solutions.

- Community engagement is crucial for addressing climate challenges.

- Historical context shapes current urban and housing policies.

- Health impacts of pollution are disproportionately felt in marginalized communities.

- Gentrification can lead to investment and revitalization if managed correctly.

- Data-driven approaches are essential for effective urban planning.

- Sustainable living requires collaboration across all levels of society.

- The role of technology in measuring and addressing pollution is vital.

- Creating a legacy for future generations is a shared responsibility.

- Funding and community involvement are key to successful climate initiatives.

Sound Bites

- "We need our communities to create a legacy."

- "We can measure pollution at every block."

- "We need a playbook for sustainable living."

Additional Resources

Climate Chaos: Killing People, Places, and the Planet (2025)

Edited by John Hans Gilderbloom

20% off at the link below

https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/climate-chaos-9781666940510/

Chromatic Homes: The Joy of Color in Historic Places
by John Hans Gilderbloom
https://www.kentuckypress.com/9780813176147/chromatic-homes/

Climate of Hope Documentary Trailer

Climate of Hope Documentary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yotW0FpYCcc&t=2s | https://climateofhopefilm.org/
Email questions, comments or any inquires to carla@carlajsnyder.com

Riggs, W. & Gilderbloom, J. (2016). Two-Way Street Conversion: Evidence of Increased Livability in Louisville. Journal of Planning Education & Research. https://doi.org/10.1177/0739456X15593147

Riggs, W. and Gilderbloom, J. (2015). ‘Two-Ways’ to Fix Our Neighborhoods. Planetizen.com. Retrieved from http://www.planetizen.com/node/75629/two-ways-fix-our-neighborhoods

End of the Road: Reimagining the Street as the Heart of the City
By William Riggs

https://bristoluniversitypress.co.uk/end-of-the-road

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to Rewiring the American Edge
01:02 - Exploring the Intersection of Planning, Design & Automation
03:33 - John Gilderbloom: From Activism to Academia
05:41 - The Impact of Rent Control and Housing Policy
07:28 - Historic Preservation as an Affordable Housing Strategy
09:09 - Rethinking Rental Housing and Urban Studies
09:54 - Reconnecting Through Academia
10:49 - The Book – Climate Chaos
13:10 - The Impact of Pollution on Health
17:06 - Technology's Role in Addressing Urban Issues
19:59 - Engaging Communities for Sustainable Change
22:24 - The Urgency of Climate Action