About this episode
Benji Backer - Founder & CEO of Nature is Nonpartisan, the largest right-of-center environmental organization in the country. In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, Cam sits down with Benji Backer to discuss politics, leadership, the environment, and finding common ground in a divided world. From death threats and conspiracy theories to public land sell-offs, affordable housing, screen time’s impact on mental health, and the future of American conservation, this is one of the most honest and thoughtful political discussions you’ll hear this year. Whether you’re left, right, or somewhere in between, this conversation proves that love for nature and clean communities can unite us all. Follow along: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cameronrhanes Twitter: https://twitter.com/cameronhanes Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camhanes/ Website: https://www.cameronhanes.com Follow Benji: https://www.instagram.com/benjibacker/ Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Getting into Politics, Death Threats, and a Love for the Environment 00:09:06 – The Government's Approach to Leadership & Their Focus on Social Media 00:15:37 – Senate Caucuses, Conspiracy Theories, and Corruption in the Government 00:24:26 – Van Jones, the Best Advice Benji Has Gotten, and the Public Land Sell Offs 00:31:54 – Public Land Sales, Affordable Housing, and the Importance of Connection to Nature 00:46:16 – Screen Time, Depression, and Rewarding Leaders with an Environmental Plan 00:50:34 – Discussions with People Outside Your Circle 00:58:26 – Aaron Rodgers: Respect for Someone That’s Always Evolving 01:02:53 – United by Nature, Trump on Public Lands Stance, and The Big Beautiful Bill 01:12:40 – Improving the Health and Cleanliness of our Communities 01:16:51 – Mineral and Energy Extraction, Mining, and Climate Change 01:25:35 – Environmentalism and Climate Change & Finding Truth in the Movement 01:30:27 – Earning Trust While Building a Movement 01:34:36 – Making a Difference Without Pushing an Agenda 01:37:51 – Final Thoughts