The Inspiration Exchange

The Inspiration Exchange

A vibrant space for ideas, stories, and resources shared by our global network of grantee partners. 

Vol. 1

The Joy Edition

Dec 2024

Earlier this year, we invited our grantee partners to share something that has profoundly inspired them. The responses we received were so remarkable that we decided to create this digital space to showcase these contributions.

For this inaugural edition, we’re focusing on the theme of joy—a universal language that connects us to what truly matters. You will find thoughtful recommendations for books, films, songs, experiences and quotes from our community. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do!

A Documentary That Inspires Me

The Biggest Little Farm

  • It's a documentary about a couple that spends seven years transforming an arid landscape into a fully functioning farm and biodiverse habitat. They face immense hardship, but have an amazing harmony with nature. This inspires me that we can make a huge difference.
    Lily Lloyd, Cape Farewell

A Film That Resonated With Me

EO

  • EO is a recent film that has really resonated with my work at Earth Species Project. It's a fictional tale told from the point of view of a donkey who is taken from his home and thrust into a frightening journey through the confusing world of humans.
    Maggie Haag, Earth Species

Music That Moves Me

"Déjame Respirar" by Bomba Estéreo

  • I love the song because it captures Indigenous ways of living and philosophies.
    Avexnim Cotija, Cultural Survival

A Song That Touched Me

"Love’s in Need of Love Today" performed by the cast of Pose (by Stevie Wonder)

  • Climate work can be trying and this song is a good reminder that when we center people, joy, love, and those most impacted, we are reminded why we do this work.
    Marouh Hussein, Tishman Environment and Design Center

A Book That Inspires Me

Braiding Sweetgrass

  • This book lifts up the concept of having a relationship with Earth rather than viewing the natural world as distant objects.
    Christian Weaver, Grid Alternatives
  • It connects me to my love of the land, and indigenous wisdom.
    Andrea Mercado, The Equity Fund
  • Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Her focus on the reciprocal relationship between plants and humans, and the abundance that comes from tending to that relationship, inspires me to act in line with that reciprocity in each moment, large and small.
    Lauren Schneider, Kitchen Table Advisors

Words That Changed Me

Proverb

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.
Proverb from Burkina Faso

A Book That Compels Me

What If We Get It Right?

  • This is one of the few 'written by a scientist' books I've read on climate that actually discusses and understands how artists and culture can play a role in the issues, and 'getting it right'.
    Marcelle Hinand, California Climate and Arts Project

An Experience That Shaped Me

“El Rosario” Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

El Rosario Butterfly Sanctuary 
  • The last time I was in Mexico City I was able to experience El Rosario - a simply magical phenomenon. El Rosario is a Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve where millions of butterflies overwinter each year.
    Catherine L. Werner, National League of Cities

What inspires you? Share it with us!