In our first-ever episode, Alexi Hu, a Master of Science student and environmental health researcher, shares his experience growing up in the Gobi Desert, where climate change has caused serious problems like drought and desertification. After witnessing the record-breaking heat dome in British Columbia, he jumped into climate activism, even taking part in a blockade. Along the way, he noticed a disconnect between climate research and activism, and met someone who inspired him to take a new path. In addition to his powerful story, Alexi will share what he's learned from researching the impact of extreme heat on health outcomes, and what inspires him to keep engaging in climate action.

To learn more about anything we talked about in this episode, check out our transcript with citations.

You can also read about about the health impacts of extreme heat and how to prepare for them at the links below:

• BCCDC - Preparing for Heat Events
• Government of BC - Be prepared for extreme heat and drought
• Health Canada - Extreme heat events

To learn more about the health impacts of wildfire smoke and how to prepare for them, check out these links:

• BCCDC - Wildfire Smoke
• HealthLinkBC - Wildfires and your health
• Health Canada - Wildfire smoke, air quality, and your health

Introducing Pulse of Change, a podcast where we explore the connection between climate change and health by sharing stories about taking action.