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Novara Stories on the Edge

Novara Stories on the Edge

Written by: Veronica Lysaght
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About this listen

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.

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.

2026 Veronica Lysaght Science Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Petra Grell-Shillingford in Dominica, Caribbean

    Petra Grell-Shillingford in Dominica, Caribbean
    Feb 1 2026

    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.
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    21 mins
  • Zakaria Oulad in Agadir, Morocco

    Zakaria Oulad in Agadir, Morocco
    Jan 26 2026

    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.
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    24 mins
  • Trailer

    Trailer
    Jan 26 2026

    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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    1 min
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