Planetwalker

The podcast tells the story of John Francis, a man who walked across the US for 17 years without speaking, protesting environmental damage and later advocating for environmental consciousness. His journey was motivated by an oil spill, and his decision to stop speaking and driving was a way to process his anger and find harmony with nature. Ultimately, Francis became an advocate for environmental justice, emphasizing the importance of kindness and interconnectedness with the environment.

Oil Spill & Decision to Walk

• 00:00:49 The 1972 San Francisco Bay oil spill profoundly impacted John Francis, causing him to re-evaluate his relationship with the environment. As a form of protest, he vowed to stop using oil-driven vehicles, leading to his decision to walk across the country. This event sparked a broader movement within the community, emphasizing environmental awareness and a desire for a more harmonious relationship with nature.

Vow of Silence

• 00:01:58 John Francis took a vow of silence in 1973, which lasted for 17 years. His decision was motivated by a desire to change his approach to the world and to find a different way of being that wasn't about getting external approval. He found that silence helped him rediscover himself and connect with his inner self, allowing him to process his experiences and find a deeper sense of self-awareness.

Higher Education & Environmental Justice

• 00:16:51 Despite his vow of silence, John Francis pursued higher education, eventually earning a PhD. His journey through academia was unconventional, forcing him to find new ways to communicate and engage with others. His experiences shaped his perspective on environmental justice, recognizing that environmental concerns intersect with social and racial issues, arguing that caring for the environment requires a commitment to equality for all people.

Kindness & Environmental Crisis

• 00:27:47 John Francis's advocacy shifted from protest to promoting 'humankindness,' emphasizing kindness as a crucial element in addressing the environmental crisis. He asserted that the environmental crisis is not just a matter of pollution and climate change but also a crisis of mind and spirit. He believes that people need to recognize that they are part of the environment, and that treating each other with kindness is fundamental to fostering a healthy and sustainable relationship with the earth.