Jessica Dandridge, Deniseea Head, Ryan “Phlegm” Gilbert, and Nesby Phips are hosts and cultural storytellers decoding climate innovation through a New Orleans lens. We break down African-led climate solutions - from seafood supply chain apps connecting local fishers directly to consumers, to kinetic energy technology, flood mitigation systems, and recycled plastic building materials - and explore what it would take to bring these ideas home to New Orleans.

We connect global innovation to local culture, asking how second lines, Mardi Gras waste, and our coastal economy could power real, community-driven solutions. Through honest conversation, humor, and lived experience, we highlight the importance of equitable innovation and what it looks like when communities lead the way in shaping a more sustainable future.

Timestamps:

2:45 COP30 Recap

06:50 Abalobi

13:40 Optim Energy

20:38 DR Congo's Humanoid Traffic Robots

29:45 Slamdam

33:20 Gjenge Makers

44:30 Final Picks and What Works For New Orleans

Don’t Water it Down (DWID) is a live and pre-recorded video podcast hosted by four black voices, primarily from New Orleans, decoding climate jargon, over curated cocktails. These unique hosts bring their distinct perspectives and experiences to the table, discussing complex and challenging topics in an authentic and transparent manner. They use storytelling and knowledge sharing to build connections, rooting each episode in New Orleans but grounding it in the local community, art, culture, and libations.

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Youtube: www.youtube.com/@DontWaterItDown

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Website: https://nolawater.org/