Green Hearts in Action

About Green Hearts in Action

Get ready to dive into engaging discussions, insightful interviews, and thought-provoking topics. The podcast will feature Canada based individuals who are making a positive environmental impact in their communities. The organization putting this podcast together is Green Neighbours Network: Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Publisher

Dominik Haake

Category

business · education · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

24 Mar 2024

Latest episode

28 May 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   28 May 2026

   Episode 15 | Amy Castator | Climate Conversations TO

   In Episode 15, we sit down with Amy Castator, co-founder of Carbon Conversations TO, a volunteer-led initiative helping people process the emotional side of the climate crisis through guided group conversations. While climate discussions often focus on science, policy, and solutions, Amy’s work creates space for something equally important: our feelings. From anxiety and grief to hope and connection, Carbon Conversations helps people move through overwhelm and into meaningful action. In this episode, Amy shares how these conversations work, why emotional honesty matters in climate spaces, and what happens when people feel truly heard. We also explore how community, vulnerability, and reflection can strengthen resilience in uncertain times. This episode is a reminder that climate action is not only practical and political, but deeply human. Learn more about Impact Net Zero: https://www.carbonconversationsto.com/ (https://www.carbonconversationsto.com/) ___ Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

2. 

   17 Mar 2026

   Episode 14 | Anne Keary | Building Climate Action Across Generations

   This special live episode of Green Hearts in Action was recorded at the 2026 Green Hearts Event in Toronto and hosted by Paul Antze. In front of a live audience, we hear from Anne Keary, recipient of the 2026 Green Hearts Award and a leading voice in grassroots climate action. Anne shares her journey from early climate organizing to becoming a key figure in parent-led advocacy, climate education, and systems-level change. Her work spans initiatives like For Our Kids Toronto, the Toronto Climate Action Network, and efforts to strengthen climate learning in schools across the city. The conversation explores how community movements grow, the role of intergenerational action, and how local organizing can influence policy, institutions, and even legal frameworks. Anne also reflects on her work in climate litigation, public health advocacy, and building connections across different parts of the climate movement. This episode is a powerful reminder that meaningful change starts with people coming together and taking action in their communities. Learn more about For Our Kids Toronto: https://www.forourkids.ca/toronto Learn more about TCAN: https://www.tcan.ca ___ Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

3. 

   6 Jan 2026

   Episode 13 | Charles Lin | Impact Net Zero

   In Episode 13 of Green Hearts in Action, we meet Charles Lin, a retired environmental scientist and founder of Impact Net Zero, a volunteer-run initiative helping Canadians understand and take action on our path to a low-carbon future. Charles breaks down what “net zero” really means, why it's often misunderstood, and how both individual and collective action are essential in shaping meaningful climate solutions. Drawing on his background in both climate science and public service, Charles brings a clear, grounded, and hopeful voice to conversations that can often feel overwhelming. This episode touches on everything from policy and personal carbon footprints to the power of local conversations, citizen engagement, and simply choosing where we spend our money. If you’ve ever wondered what you can do, this one’s for you. Learn more about Impact Net Zero: https://impactnetzero.ca/ (https://impactnetzero.ca/) ___ Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

4. 

   1 Dec 2025

   Episode 12 | Andrew Knox | Transition Toronto

   In Episode 12 of Green Hearts in Action, we sit down with Andrew Knox, an environmental engineer and passionate community organizer with Transition Toronto, the local chapter of the global Transition Town movement. Andrew shares his journey from climate concern to community action—and how the Transition movement empowers neighborhoods to take climate solutions into their own hands. We talk about building local resilience, what a low-carbon, livable community could look like, and how small-scale projects—from fruit tree planting to district energy systems—can create ripple effects of sustainability and joy. This episode explores the real-world challenges of volunteer-powered work, the power of planting a single apple tree, and why creating change with your neighbors might just be the best hope we’ve got. Learn more about the Transition movement: transitiontoronto.org (https://www.transitiontoronto.org/) ___ Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

5. 

   2 Sept 2025

   Episode 11 | John Cummings | Friends of Cedarvale

   In Episode 11 of Green Hearts in Action, we speak with John Cummings, longtime community leader and member of Friends of Cedarvale, a volunteer-driven group committed to preserving and protecting one of Toronto’s most beloved green spaces: the Cedarvale Ravine. John shares the story behind the group’s formation, the ecological and community value of Cedarvale, and why these kinds of local efforts are so critical in the fight against environmental degradation. From invasive species removal to hands-on restoration, Friends of Cedarvale is proof that passionate, grassroots action can have a lasting impact. We explore the challenges of urban conservation, the joy of community connection, and how even small actions can ripple outward when we care for the places we call home. Whether you’re a ravine walker, a native plant enthusiast, or someone looking to get more involved in your own neighbourhood, this episode offers both inspiration and practical next steps. 🌱 Learn more: https://friendsofcedarvale.ca/ (https://friendsofcedarvale.ca/) ___ Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

6. 

   4 Aug 2025

   Episode 10 | Tim Murphy | Repair Cafe Toronto

   In Episode 10 of Green Hearts in Action, we sit down with Tim Murphy, a longtime volunteer and community advocate with Repair Café Toronto. This inspiring conversation explores how fixing broken items can be a powerful act of sustainability, connection, and resistance to consumer waste culture. Tim shares the origins of the global Repair Café movement, the unique hands-on format of Toronto’s local events, and how everyday people—regardless of experience—can learn to repair items from blenders to bikes. He also dives into the importance of the right to repair movement, the challenges of expanding community-based repair initiatives, and what it means to build a future where repair is part of everyday life. Whether you're a lifelong DIYer, a sustainability advocate, or someone looking to make small changes with big impact, this episode offers inspiration and practical tools to get started. Website: https://repaircafetoronto.ca/ (https://repaircafetoronto.ca/) Event Calendar: https://repaircafetoronto.ca/upcoming-events/ (https://repaircafetoronto.ca/upcoming-events/) ___ Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

7. 

   30 Jun 2025

   Episode 9 | Vince Shutt | Motivational Interviewing

   Vince Shutt explores emotional interviewing techniques for climate conversations, emphasizing vulnerability and deep connection to foster compassion and courage in advocacy; this is an interview.

8. 

   1 May 2025

   Episode 8 | Paul Mero | Eco Spark

   In Episode 8 of Green Hearts in Action, we speak with Paul Mero, Executive Director of EcoSpark, a powerhouse in grassroots environmental education and citizen science in Ontario. For over 25 years, EcoSpark has been connecting people with nature through hands-on learning, advocacy, and action—engaging more than 100,000 students, teachers, and community members. Paul shares insights into the organization’s innovative programs that empower individuals to monitor ecosystems, take part in real scientific research, and become stewards of their local environment. We also get a glimpse into Paul’s personal journey—what drives his passion for sustainability, community, and collective climate action. Whether you're a teacher, student, environmentalist, or simply someone who loves the outdoors, this episode will leave you inspired to make a difference in your own backyard. Follow EcoSpark to learn more: https://www.ecospark.ca/ (https://www.ecospark.ca/) ___ Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

9. 

   5 Apr 2025

   Episode 7 | Krissan Veerasingam | 2025 Green Hearts Award Winner

   In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Krissan Veerasingam — lifelong Scarborough resident, community activist, and co-founder of the Scarborough Environmental Association (SEA). Krissan shares his journey from grassroots political canvassing with Progress Toronto to launching SEA, a local force for equitable environmental action in Toronto’s east end. Discover how his upbringing shaped his passion for repair culture, how SEA is using bike repair and pollinator planting events to bring people together, and why redefining “environment” is key to community building. Krissan’s story is a powerful reminder that meaningful change often starts right at home. Tune in to hear how one resident’s vision is transforming Scarborough into a model of grassroots leadership, sustainability, and community care. Special Highlight: Krissan is the recipient of GNN’s 2025 Green Hearts Award — celebrating his outstanding contributions to environmental justice and community empowerment. Follow SEA to stay connected with their creative, action-packed journey: https://www.scarbenv.ca/ (https://www.scarbenv.ca/) ___ Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ (https://gnntoronto.ca/) We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ (https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/?hl=en) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto (https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ (https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

10. 

    28 Jan 2025

    Episode 6 | Anna Hoad | Toronto Nature Stewards

    Restoring Toronto’s natural areas is more urgent than ever, and in this episode, we spotlight the volunteer-powered work of Toronto Nature Stewards as they protect and revitalize one of North America’s largest urban green spaces. Spanning more than 11,000 hectares—an area comparable to the size of Paris—Toronto’s ravines support the well-being of over three million people, safeguard biodiversity, regulate critical water and nutrient cycles, and mitigate flooding and erosion risks. Unfortunately, these vital ecosystems face severe threats from invasive species, climate change, development, and litter. Join us for an in-depth conversation on how Toronto Nature Stewards combats these challenges by removing harmful plants, planting native species, clearing trash, and raising community awareness about the importance of ecological balance. Discover how hundreds of passionate volunteers unite across 42 sites to nurture healthy, self-sustaining urban habitats for current and future generations. Learn how you, too, can contribute to preserving Toronto’s ravines and embrace an active role in urban conservation. Tune in for a powerful reminder that every individual can make an impact, one natural area at a time. Find out more info about Toronto Nature Stewards here: https://torontonaturestewards.org/ (https://torontonaturestewards.org/) Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ (https://gnntoronto.ca/) We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ (https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/?hl=en) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto (https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ (https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

11. 

    8 Dec 2024

    Episode 5 | Rhonda Teitel-Payne | Toronto Urban Growers

    Toronto Urban Growers founder Rhonda Teitel-Payne shares her journey from social work to urban farming, highlighting the community-building power of growing food and reimagining urban spaces for a more inclusive, sustainable food system.

12. 

    10 Jun 2024

    Episode 4 | Dörte Windmüller | Cliffcrest Butterflyway

    Our pollinator population is in trouble - because of their population decline, so are our birds. Cliffcrest Butterflyway is here to help increase the numbers and biodiversity of bee, bird, and butterfly populations through gardening. With restorative garden practices and the focus on native powerhouse plants, gardeners can create food and an environment that supports the various life stages of our insects and birds. Combined, gardeners have an enormous, untapped impact on restoring large-scale biodiversity and on reducing our carbon footprint. To find out more about this initiative, please check out: https://www.cliffcrestbutterflyway.com/ (https://www.cliffcrestbutterflyway.com/) https://www.pollinatorgarden.ca/ (https://www.pollinatorgarden.ca/) Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ (https://gnntoronto.ca/) We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ (https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/?hl=en) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto (https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ (https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

13. 

    8 May 2024

    Episode 3 | Rochelle Byrne | A Greener Future

    A Greener Future is an environmental non-profit dedicated to leading the effort in sustaining a clean and healthy environment. By bringing together a community of volunteers and environmental stewards, they facilitate programs that eliminate waste from the environment. As education is at the centre of what they do, they inspire change through a variety of learning opportunities. Their programs raise awareness about plastic pollution in the Great Lakes Region, and detailed data collection sheds a light on the most common items that are found during litter cleanups. To find out more about this initiative including, please check out: https://www.agreenerfuture.ca/ (https://www.agreenerfuture.ca/) Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ (https://gnntoronto.ca/) We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ (https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/?hl=en) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto (https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ (https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

14. 

    15 Apr 2024

    Episode 2 | Tim Grant | Net Zero Carbon Project

    Today's podcast guest is Tim Grant, an inspiring fellow neighbour in Toronto working on reducing his community's greenhouse gas emissions. His efforts are enhanced by his ability to drum up enthusiasm and create a snowball effect by utilizing the power of neighbourhood alchemy. This episode was recorded while I met Tim in his neighborhood and walked around his community. He points out houses that have already taken action to get off gas and become more energy-efficient through retrofitting. To find out more about this initiative including webinars and signing up for their mailing list, please check out: https://harbordvillage.com/ (https://harbordvillage.com/) Green Neighbours Network (GNN) of Toronto fosters connection and collaboration among people and grassroots groups across Toronto and the GTA striving to make our neighbourhoods greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Find out more about us here: https://gnntoronto.ca/ (https://gnntoronto.ca/) We recognize the urgency for global climate action, and our personal roles in it. We support initiatives that promote a fair and just transition to a low carbon future. Follow us on social media for more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/ (https://www.instagram.com/gnntoronto/?hl=en) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto (https://www.linkedin.com/company/gnntoronto) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/ (https://www.facebook.com/GNNToronto/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

15. 

    24 Mar 2024

    Episode 1 | Helen Mills | Lost Rivers

    Since Toronto Green Community (TGC) held its very first meeting in 1995, Helen has brought her knowledge, wisdom, ideas, and infectious enthusiasm to the work of the organization. She has served as a board member, and as the creator or co-creator behind the first Seedy Saturday in Toronto, the Eglinton Park Community Garden, the Green Garden Visit, and as the creator and driving force behind the Lost Rivers Project. Over the last 30 years, Lost Rivers has researched, mapped, and shared local in-depth knowledge of Toronto’s watersheds, lost rivers, our connections with land and water in the city, and ways we can intervene to improve the urban landscape. Through walks and workshops–led by Helen, other Lost Rivers members, and hundreds more volunteers–the Lost Rivers Project has informed and inspired tens of thousands of participants. Helen has touched many more through her founding role in social enterprises like the Green Garden Visit, Rivers Rising, RAINscapeTO, and other partnerships and collaborations. Helen was also among the creative minds that imagined a network of green neighbours groups in 2016. Her guiding wisdom has helped make GNN what it is today. GNN is so very pleased to make a donation to Lost Rivers Walks in Helen’s honour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 15 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

18

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

Contact Green Hearts in Action

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.