Balancing Climate Research, Advocacy, And Funding With Chris Severson-Baker, Executive Director, Pembina Institute

The Discovery Pod

In the complex, high-stakes arena of environmental action, how do leaders sustain momentum when public attention shifts and funding remains a challenge? We sat down with Chris Severson-Baker, Executive Director of the Pembina Institute, a leading Canadian clean energy think tank, to explore the critical tension between deep, foundational research and the sustained, repetitive advocacy needed to drive policy change.


For decades, Pembina has shaped Canada’s energy landscape, moving from proving the viability of clean tech to actively dismantling the barriers to a net-zero economy. Chris shares his candid insights on navigating the political headwinds, the necessity of integrated fundraising—especially in a competitive philanthropic space—and the surprising discipline required to repeat a message until it finally sticks.


Whether you’re a non-profit leader, an advocate for change, or simply interested in how big-picture environmental goals translate into real-world progress, this conversation offers invaluable lessons on strategy, focus, and the art of leading with both science and conviction.

2026-03-11 34 min

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