The Defender Podcast
The Defender Podcast
Podcast Description
Welcome to the Defender, Wisconsin's environmental podcast, where we talk about the most pressing environmental issues facing Wisconsin and how you can plug in to defend our air, water, land and climate. The Defender is hosted by former radio and TV journalist Amy Barrilleaux. She'll help cut through the jargon and all the misinformation that’s out there and have real conversations about how to build a healthy, sustainable future. Every week, Amy talks with scientists, advocates, farmers, experts, and just everyday people who are working right here in Wisconsin to make a difference to protect this place we call home.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast primarily focuses on environmental issues in Wisconsin, including the impacts of pesticides, climate change, and sustainable agriculture. Episodes discuss topics such as the effects of neonicotinoids on health, the benefits of clean energy and solar farming, and the challenges posed by microplastics. Examples include discussions on pollinator protection and the transition to renewable energy.

Welcome to the Defender, Wisconsin’s environmental podcast, where we talk about the most pressing environmental issues facing Wisconsin and how you can plug in to defend our air, water, land and climate. The Defender is hosted by former radio and TV journalist Amy Barrilleaux. She’ll help cut through the jargon and all the misinformation that’s out there and have real conversations about how to build a healthy, sustainable future. Every week, Amy talks with scientists, advocates, farmers, experts, and just everyday people who are working right here in Wisconsin to make a difference to protect this place we call home.
Wisconsin was one of the first places where the farm-to-table movement really took root. But now that movement is changing, becoming more urgent in the face of the flooding, droughts, and changing weather patterns that are taking a toll on our food systems.
In this episode, Amy welcome Madison’s 2025 Chef of the Year Evan Danells of Cadre to talk about why these days chefs are adding protecting the planet to the menu.
Host: Amy Barrilleaux
Guest: Chef Evan Danells, Cadre
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