Oil didn’t become the backbone of global transportation because it was the best option. It became the default because we built our entire world around it. In this episode, we trace how oil took over mobility, from the first electric taxis in 1897 to the rise of gasoline, highways, aviation, and global shipping. We explore how fracking reshaped the industry, why oil still dominates planes and freight, and what electrification is changing today.

We also tackle one of the most common EV fears: “What happens when the power goes out?” and explain why the question misses the bigger picture about how our transportation system really works.

If you’ve ever wondered why oil became king, and how electricity is reshaping the future, this episode peels back the layers.

In this debut episode of The Climate Layer, host Alex Banat lays out why climate communication is broken and how misinformation shapes the way we see energy, transportation, and everyday choices. Alex shares the personal journey that led to launching this show — from chasing environmental storytelling in Hollywood, to building EV education programs with utilities, to guiding clean transportation narratives in PR, and finally to pursuing a master’s in sustainability at Harvard. Along the way, he explains why cutting through myths with clarity, compassion, and hope is more urgent than ever.

This episode dives into the wind turbine scene from Landman and unpacks why it’s a masterclass in misinformation, breaking down the facts about turbine lifecycles, oil abundance, and emotional manipulation. It then tackles the myth that EVs aren’t actually green, showing how efficiency, cleaner grids, and public health benefits make them a critical part of the transition. You’ll also get an introduction to the electric grid — what it is, how it works, and why understanding it matters for the future of clean energy. Finally, Alex offers practical tools for spotting climate misinformation in everyday conversations, helping listeners cut through noise and false balance with curiosity and confidence.

Start here to understand the mission of The Climate Layer and join the effort to make sustainability simple, approachable, and free from spin. This is the foundation for a show built to challenge myths, untangle fear, and inspire action toward a cleaner world.