Laurel Colless, Author & Sustainability Advocate, on Science Fantasy and Climate Education
- Background in comparative literature and mythology
- Worked in tech and sustainability (Mitsubishi, Nokia, Virginia Tech)
Podcast
Overview
In this episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg chats with Laurel Colless, a New Zealand-Australian author based in Finland. Laurel’s journey bridges literature, technology, and climate advocacy, leading her to write science fantasy books that inspire children to connect with environmental issues.
00:00:34- Who is Laurel Colless and what’s her background?
- Background in comparative literature and mythology
- Worked in tech and sustainability (Mitsubishi, Nokia, Virginia Tech)
- Inspired by the Kyoto Conference, but frustrated with slow progress on climate issues
- Shifted focus to engaging children through storytelling and climate education
00:04:00- How did the Peter Blue series come to life?
- Disillusionment with adult inaction inspired her to reach kids instead
- Started volunteering in schools and launched the Carbon Busters Club
- Found that storytelling and role-play made climate topics engaging for kids
00:06:11- How does she write authentically for young readers?
- Draws on favorite childhood adventure books
- Creates flawed, real characters and lets them drive the story
- Writes from a child’s viewpoint, avoiding adult cynicism
00:08:36- What role does fantasy play in climate education?
- Uses magical realism to personify climate threats as monsters
- Makes climate issues imaginative and emotionally resonant for kids
00:10:17- How does she balance fun and learning?
- Entertainment comes first; avoids obvious lessons
- Stories encourage curiosity and can spark classroom discussion
- Main goal: get kids reading and thinking
00:16:04- What is the Carbon Busters Club?
- Hands-on science and storytelling modules for schools
- Made climate change approachable and participatory
- Current focus is on books, with hopes to relaunch the club
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Laurel Colless: Linkedin
Enjoyed this podcast?
If you learned new insights about Laurel advocates turning stories into games and AR to spark awe (without losing sight of old-school reading!). She’s working on a board-game-AR hybrid where kids “grow their own tree” IRL, mirroring her characters’ journeys, and share them with friends!
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Profile
- Background in comparative literature and mythology
- Worked in tech and sustainability (Mitsubishi, Nokia, Virginia Tech)
- Inspired by the Kyoto Conference, but frustrated with slow progress on climate issues
- Shifted focus to engaging children through storytelling and climate education
