Joel Brammeier is passionate about the wellbeing of the Great Lakes. Whether it’s growing up enjoying them in the suburbs of Detroit, or testifying on their behalf before Congress, or by being President and CEO of Alliance for Great Lakes for the last 15 years, one thing is clear: Joel advocates for the Great Lakes. With 20% of the Earth’s fresh surface water belonging to the Great Lakes, Joel explains how the Midwest being the leaders for microplastic discussions and initiatives gives him hope for clean water in the future. While he’s hopeful, he still makes the point that “regulation” doesn’t need to be bad term when it comes to water. Instead, it can be a helpful thing that puts laws into place that keeps not only our drinking water clean, but our beer too. He and Charlie discuss the Great Lakes Compact, why microplastics are bad for us, and what the implications of recent government budget cuts will mean for environmental agencies. Charlie uses this episode to geek out on all things environment and he somehow weaves AI into the discussion too, go figure. Of course, Joel shares what makes him say “cripes!” which is something all parents of teenagers can relate to. All that and more on this episode of the Cripescast!

For more information about Joel’s work and to get involved head to www.greatlakes.org.

Follow the Alliance for Great Lakes on social:

Bluesky – @alliancegreatlakes.bsky.social

Instagram – alliance4greatlakes

Facebook – AlliancefortheGreatLakes

Check out his latest Op-ed in the Sun Times: https://chicago.suntimes.com/other-views/2025/03/20/epa-cuts-great-lakes-states-clean-water-lead-lines-flooding-joel-brammeier