2025 Conference Keynote Speakers

Forecast: Funny with a Chance of Solutions

What do you get when you cross a climate comedian with a climate simulator? A keynote that’s equal parts inspiring, eye-opening, and fun.

In this unforgettable session, Esteban Gast—educator, climate communicator, and self-described “comedian for the planet”—will kick things off with a creative take on how humor can connect us, shift perspectives, and create space for climate hope. Through storytelling and stand-up, Esteban reminds us that building a better future isn’t just possible—it can also be joyful.

Then, Krystal Noiseux from the MIT Climate Pathways Project will take us on an interactive journey through the En-ROADS Climate Solutions Simulator, a powerful tool co-developed by Climate Interactive and the MIT Sloan School of Management. Together, we’ll explore what real, science-based climate solutions can look like, test out different strategies, and collectively imagine a healthier, more resilient future for all.

Esteban Gast

Esteban Gast is Colombian, was raised in Puerto Rico and Illinois, and currently lives in Los Angeles. His work has been called “irreverent but aspirational” by Variety. He co-hosts Identity at Play, a Spotify Original podcast, and hosts Comedians Conquering Climate Change. He hosted Hyundai Highways, a travel series using only an electric car, and was the star of Jungletown, a 10-episode TV show airing on VICELAND about his time running an off-the-grid eco-community. He co-wrote the book and lyrics for Teacher of the Year, a comedy musical inspired by his time teaching.

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About Esteban Gast

Krystal Noiseux

Krystal Noiseux is Senior Associate Director of the MIT Climate Pathways Project, where her team uses interactive simulations to advance the adoption of evidence-based climate policy through leaders in the public and private sector. Prior to MIT, Krystal worked in environmental affairs for state government and in the Harvard University Office for Sustainability. She has served on the boards of the Rhode Island Environmental Education Association and Rhode Island Food Policy Council, and currently serves on the board of the MIT Sloan Sustainability Initiative.

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About Krystal Noiseux

National Geographic: Education at the Edge of Exploration

What happens when exploration meets education? Join National Geographic Society’s Deputy to the Chief Education Officer Fay Gore—an educator, leader, and champion for transformational learning—as she sets the stage for a powerful keynote session on the role of storytelling, science, and real-world experience in inspiring the next generation.

Following a short opening address, Fay will moderate a conversation with three National Geographic Explorers whose work is reshaping how we understand and care for the planet. Through their stories—ranging from biodiversity and community resilience to cultural heritage—you’ll gain insights into how curiosity-driven discovery can inform our work, empower youth, and drive positive change in a rapidly shifting world.

Fay Gore

Fay Gore is the Deputy to the Chief Education Officer and Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, Grants, and Educator Initiatives at the National Geographic Society. Fay is a seasoned educational and non-profit leader dedicated to empowering educators and learners of all ages with the knowledge and skills to care for and protect our world. In her current role, she leads the Education Division’s portfolio of educator-focused initiatives, including grant making, immersive learning experiences for teachers and learners, and fostering strategic collaborations that extend the work of scientists, educators, and storytellers into classrooms and communities globally.

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About Fay Gore