
Compassion as Practice: Simplicity, Community, and Centering Youth & Faith in Planetary Health
March 29, 2026
About this episode
Welcome to Mind the Planet, a podcast under Climate Junction!
In this episode of Mind the Planet, we speak with Dr. Amjad Saleem about identity beyond titles, compassion and kindness in the planetary health movement, living simply in a culture shaped by consumption and excess, and how faith communities can respond to ecological and social crises. Drawing on personal stories, Islamic perspectives, and intergenerational wisdom, we explore simplicity as both a personal practice and a pathway to planetary health. Together, we reflect on eco-anxiety, climate grief, trust, and the emotional landscape driving youth activism, while highlighting the role of spiritual and cultural traditions, community, and human rights in fostering resilience.
About this show
A podcast that gives you insight on how to protect your mental health amidst the climate crisis. 🌍💙
This podcast is part of Gen Climate Speaks, a project of Climate Junction.
Your host
Vildan Soguktas, founder of Youth for Planetary Health, founder of EcoRelief, Chair of the Advocacy Committee for the National Alliance on Mental Illness Virginia Youth Advisory Board
Guests
Amjad Mohamed Saleem, PhD
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-amjad-mohamed-saleem-phd-6303b819/