Marian Goodell et al: Inside Burning Man’s Worst Case Scenario
Burning Man photo by Scott London
Life is a Festival #157
Burning Man 2023 was many things, most of which were not accurately portrayed in the media. We experienced a weather event that united us, tested our resilience, and sparked a renewed sense of purpose while also accelerating a critical examination of where Burning Man stands in the broader context of sustainability.
Today on the show, I've asked five different guests to help craft a comprehensive picture of the 2023 event, the state of our culture, and the future of Black Rock City.
(00:01) - Eamon's Intro
(00:12) - Part 1: Katie Bain (Billboard): "Whimsy Is Reliance" | Katie Bain, Director of Billboard Dance, cuts through the media noise with her balanced and playful perspective on this year's Burning Man.
(00:28) - Part 2: Katrina Gordon (Camp KISS): The Grasshopper Prepares | Katrina Gordon, one of the leads of my own Camp KISS, gives the nitty-gritty of camp management and resilience.
(00:51) - Part 3: Emily Collins (Seven Circles): Burners of the World Unite! | Emily Collins, an environmental protester, challenges us to consider the ethical implications of such a large-scale event in the face of climate change.
(1:14) - Part 4: Matthew Sundquist (Fly Ranch): A Slow Burn to Sustainability | Matt Sundquist, director of Fly Ranch, Matt Sundquist, director of Fly Ranch, discusses the 2030 Sustainability Roadmap and using a Theory of Change approach to sustainability..
(1:41) - Part 5: Marian Goodell (Burning Man Project): The Storm is our Portal to the Future | Co-founder and CEO of Burning Man shares her real-time decision-making and unique insights into Burning Man's evolution and its role in the broader climate conversation.
Whether you're a seasoned Burner or a curious onlooker, today's episode promises to be a rollercoaster of emotion, insight, and, yes, a bit of whimsy. At the end of the day, we're all asking the same question: Will our changing climate stop Burning Man, or will our collective resilience and response to crisis make our community stronger.
Graphics Designed by Gehno Sanchez Aviance
Audio Engineering by Trevor Coulter
Theme song ““Peculiar Colors” [Manjumasi]“ by dj atish