The Legacy of Energy Green Grandpa

At Cedarhurst of Salina, resident Dr. George Potts might appear to lead a quiet retirement — but behind that gentle smile is a passionate environmentalist, lifelong educator, and digital content creator known to many as “Energy Green Grandpa.” With a science teaching career that spans nearly five decades, and a YouTube channel dedicated to climate education, Dr. Potts continues to influence how people think about the environment, energy, and the future of our planet.

George’s love for science began in his youth. Growing up in Wichita, Kansas, nestled between the Arkansas and Little Arkansas rivers, he and his friends spent their childhoods immersed in nature — catching snakes, crawdads, and fish, and marveling at birds. Those early outdoor adventures planted the seeds for a lifelong fascination with the natural world.

His academic path eventually led him to Friends University, where a remarkable professor, Charles Laun, inspired him to pursue a career in science education. “The outdoors is the best classroom,” George says. “I wasn’t one for lectures, even as a student. I learned by doing — and I made sure my students had the same chance.”

That philosophy defined George’s teaching approach. For 48 years, he invited students outside the four walls of the classroom and into forests, rivers, and ecosystems. Whether it was summer trips to the Ozarks or data collection field studies in Wisconsin, George made science come alive through hands-on exploration. “Those field trips were the most memorable,” he reflects. “Kids don’t forget what they experience for themselves.”

But George didn’t stop teaching when he retired. In fact, his mission only grew. Alarmed by the growing threat of climate change and frustrated by the lack of public understanding, he teamed up with his son, Rolf, to create the Energy Green Grandpa YouTube channel and website. The idea was simple: create short, engaging videos that demystify clean energy, promote energy efficiency, and inspire action. “If you don’t say anything about the problem, it won’t get resolved,” George explains.

With topics ranging from LED lightbulbs to renewable energy solutions, George’s videos -some just five minutes long - offer practical advice with heartfelt passion. He handles research and scripting, while Rolf handles filming and editing. “I love the research,” George admits. “It keeps me sharp. I’ve always been a reader — even as a little boy, I preferred a good book to playing outside.”

Although he enjoys his YouTube work, George still misses the human interaction of the classroom. “You can’t see your viewers,” he says. “In person, I could spot a student who was tuning out and find a way to reel them back in.” Still, the channel allows George to reach new audiences — particularly younger generations — with his message: climate change is real, and we all have a role to play.

One of his proudest achievements is a series of 13 “crash course” videos aimed at high school students. Designed to be approachable and informative, these 15-minute lessons help young people understand the science of energy and the importance of environmental responsibility. His hope? That viewers of all ages walk away not just informed - but inspired to make small changes that add up to a big impact.

"I already left a legacy with the students I taught. Now, I hope these videos will carry the message forward."
- Dr. George Potts

George’s legacy isn’t just digital - it’s deeply personal. In the mid-1960s, he taught biology in inner-city Los Angeles, working with youth affected by poverty and gang violence. During the Watts Riots, he witnessed firsthand how societal unrest impacted his students. One day, he asked them to write anonymously about what they were feeling. That small act of listening had a profound effect. “It gave them a voice,” he says quietly. “They could say what they needed to say without fear.” To this day, George remains in contact with some of those students.

When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave, George smiles.“I already left a legacy with the students I taught,” he says. “Now, I hope these videos will carry the message forward.” That message, delivered through Energy Green Grandpa, is one of hope, action, and education.

At 85, George shows no signs of slowing down. And life at Cedarhurst of Salina has only supported his mission. “I love the space,” he says. “It’s perfect for filming, and the staff has been so supportive.” He’s shared his brochures and knowledge with fellow residents and even sparked conversations about sustainability within the community.

Though he calls himself a “loner,” George has formed connections at Cedarhurst, meeting new friends and reconnecting with familiar faces. While he enjoys a quiet afternoon of research, he also cherishes conversations with neighbors about their lives and experiences.

“It’s a good place to live,” he says. “I’m thankful every day for the care my wife Alice and I receive. The staff are attentive, thorough, and genuinely kind.”

Alice, a celebrated Kansas educator in her own right, shares George’s passion for lifelong learning. Together, they’ve lived a life dedicated to teaching - and to each other. Their story was recently featured in Kansas Living magazine, and their bond continues to be a source of strength and joy. 

For George Potts, teaching was never just a job. It was a calling. Whether in a classroom, a forest, or a YouTube video, his goal remains the same: to open minds, ignite curiosity, and help people understand that even small changes can help heal the planet.

So, if you ever find yourself browsing YouTube and stumble across a kind-faced man talking about solar panels, insulation, or lightbulbs - stop and listen. You might just learn something from Energy Green Grandpa - a teacher, a pioneer, and a true Cedarhurst original.

This story originally appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of Flourish^®  Magazine.

About the Author

Ryan Davis is the Corporate Communications Manager at Cedarhurst Senior Living and the writer behind every story in Flourish^® magazine. He holds a Communications degree from Indiana University and brings 19 years of experience to his role, which he began in January 2024. Ryan is passionate about storytelling, especially sharing the meaningful lives of Cedarhurst residents, families, and staff. He hopes each published story becomes a treasured legacy for loved ones.