The Novara Podcast shares stories from coastal communities living on the frontline of climate change.
Hosted by Veronica Lysaght and Dr Nigel Jollands, the series centres on the voices of local people - fishers, community leaders, elders, entrepreneurs, families - who are adapting, responding, and building resilience as their environments change.
Rather than focusing on outside experts, each episode invites community members to tell their own stories: what makes their home special, what changes they’ve witnessed over time, how those changes affect daily life, and the local solutions they are proud of.
Recorded during the sailing journey of the expedition schooner Novara — from the UK to Africa, the Caribbean, the Arctic, and beyond — these are deeply human conversations about place, identity, challenge, and hope. Together with interspersed stories of adventures on Novara, these are in a very real sense, these are stories on the edge.
New episodes are approximately 20 minutes long and feature honest, participant-led conversations that contribute to the global climate dialogue by starting with lived experience.
Our latest conversation with Brian Whittington explores the profound impacts of climate change on the Outer Hebrides, highlighting community experiences, participatory mapping initiatives, and the importance of local voices in policy-making. Brian Whittington from Climate Hebrides shares insights on the challenges faced by coastal communities, adaptation strategies, and the need for collaboration and resilience in the face of climate threats. This podcast was produced in association with WeAdapt and Resilience.org.
7 Jul 2026
Steve Brown - former 'owner' of Novara
Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Steve Brown, former owner of Novara. Steve is a seasoned sailor and explorer, who shares insights on navigating the Arctic, guardianship of Novara, and the impact of climate change on polar regions. This conversation offers valuable lessons on adventure, stewardship, and environmental awareness.
27 May 2026
Marie-Elise Maingot - Trinidad & Tobago
An exploration of youth-led climate resilience in Trinidad and Tobago, featuring Marie-Elise Maingot of the Global Shapers community in Port of Spain. Marie-Elise shares how her twin-island nation is experiencing the frontline impacts of climate change - from devastating floods and record-breaking heatwaves to shifting rainfall patterns - and describes the innovative community-led responses, including regenerative agriculture training, science communication, and leatherback turtle conservation. A story of optimism, listening, and the power of young leaders to drive change in one of the world's most climate-vulnerable Small Island Developing States.
13 Apr 2026
Lonnie Dupre in the Arctic
Have you ever wondered how climate change impacts life in the Arctic? From disappearing sea ice to shifting animal populations, these changes threaten traditional ways of living for Inuit communities. In this post, you'll discover a firsthand account from seasoned Arctic explorer Lonnie Dupre, who has spent decades living amongst Greenland's Inuit people and witnessing these rapid transformations firsthand. With rising temperatures and melting permafrost, Arctic communities face unprecedented challenges – yet their resilience and adaptive strategies are equally compelling. Join us as we explore how climate change is reshaping the Arctic landscape, culture, and livelihoods, and what can be done moving forward.
18 Mar 2026
Kimberly & Leo, Petty Harbour, Newfoundland
In this conversation, Kimberly and Leo from Fishing for Success discuss the history and current state of Petty Harbour, Newfoundland, focusing on the the effects of climate change, the impact of the cod moratorium and community advocacy for sustainable fishing practices. They share insights into their non-profit organization, which aims to reconnect youth with nature through fishing, and the importance of empowering women in the fishing community through their Girls Who Fish program.
Keywords
Petty Harbour, Fishing for Success, cod moratorium, sustainable fishing, climate change, community advocacy, Girls Who Fish, Newfoundland, youth education, food sovereignty
25 Feb 2026
Tom Lusink - Isle of Raasay
Today we’re talking with Tom Lusink from the Isle of Raasay, West Scotland. The conversation explores the challenges faced by coastal communities, particularly regarding climate changes and housing shortages and the proactive measures taken by residents to address these issues. It highlights the resilience of communities that often take matters into their own hands when local government support is lacking.
Keywords
community resilience, housing solutions, coastal communities, self-reliance, social housing, local government, island living, community investment, housing crisis, community action
1 Feb 2026
Petra Grell-Shillingford in Dominica, Caribbean
Today we’re talking with Petra Grell-Shillingford from Dominica. Our conversation explores the resilience of Dominica in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, focusing on agricultural initiatives, environmental changes, community adaptations, and the importance of mental health in recovery. Petra shares insights on how the island is diversifying its economy, the impact of climate change, and the innovative steps being taken at both governmental and community levels to build a sustainable future.
Takeaways
Dominica's economy is primarily agrarian, focusing on sustainable agriculture.
Hurricane Maria had a devastating impact, leading to a complete rethinking of resilience.
The government is promoting replanting initiatives for coconuts and avocados.
Climate change is causing significant environmental changes, including rising temperatures.
Sargassum is a growing issue affecting local fisheries and communities.
Community-level adaptations include climate-proofing homes and investing in renewable energy.
Mental health is a critical aspect of recovery post-disaster.
The private sector is supporting climate resilience through loans for retrofitting homes.
Innovative agricultural practices are being adopted to cope with climate challenges.
The community is focused on building a sustainable future for the next generation.
26 Jan 2026
Zakaria Oulad in Agadir, Morocco
Today we’re talking with Zakaria Oulad, who’s sharing his story of resilience in Agadir, Morocco. Agadir experienced a heatwave in August 2023 where the temperature spiked at 50.4 degrees celsius. This extreme weather event shocked the city and brought the reality of living with climate change into stark focus.
26 Jan 2026
Trailer
The Novara podcast, hosted by Veronica Lysaght and Dr Nigel Jollands, features inspiring stories from coastal communities dealing with a changing climate. The podcast explores resilience and adaptation in diverse communities, highlighting the challenges and successes of these communities in the face of environmental changes.
Takeaways
Coastal communities facing climate challenges
Resilience and adaptation in diverse communities
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Novara Stories on the Edge Podcast
Many thanks to Joe Jollands for composing the sting for us :-)
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Apple Podcasts (US)
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