This podcast focuses on recent advances in complex climate change risk assessment for adaptation and discusses how to better assess and manage the intricate and interconnected risks posed by climate change. It highlights promising opportunities for action in areas like cities, coastal zones, and finance, advocating for the implementation of new methodologies. These methods, such as participatory modelling and adaptation pathways planning, aim to overcome challenges like uncertainty and complexity by providing more actionable insights for decision-makers. The podcast then discusses five key enablers for effective and equitable adaptation, including integrating equity, avoiding maladaptation, investing in accessible knowledge, incorporating diverse expertise, and assessing local feasibility. The podcast is drawn from research at the Climate Risk Lab on the theme: Advances in complex climate change risk assessment for adaptation. npj Clim. Action 4, 74 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44168-025-00281-y