Spark’n Conversations

Episode 43 - How Certifications Create Government Contracting Opportunities w/ Jeff Anderson, ATEK Distribution LLC

Have you ever thought about getting into government work but not sure where to start? Our host, Mike Miller, sits down with Jeff Anderson to explain how certifications can be leveraged in public contracting, especially through partnerships, and offer guidance for those new to government project work.
 
To learn more about what ATEK Distribution does, you can visit their website: 
https://atekdistribution.com/
 

Episode 42 - I9 and Employee Handbook Changes w/ Kate Bischoff, k8bisch LLC

Kate’s back! She and Mike talk through some handbook updates, take another look at the I-9 form, and see what’s changed in HR since her last time on.

Episode 41 - Vehicle Inspections & Regulations w/ Jacob Letourneau, MN State Patrol

On this podcast, host Mike Miller is joined by Sergeant Jacob Letourneau of the Minnesota State Patrol for an in-depth look at the regulations that support roadway safety. They examine statutes concerning insurance coverage, licensing requirements, logbook protocols, mandatory medical physicals, proper load securement, and additional key safety considerations.

Episode 40 - Economic Update w/ Ron Wirtz, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

To help us understand where the economy is headed, Regional Outreach Director Ron Wirtz sits down with Mike to share the latest updates. 
 
For more information you can go to Ron's website: 
https://www.minneapolisfed.org/people/ron-wirtz 

Episode 39 - Succession Planning w/ Richard Jahnke, Sunbelt Business Advisors

Have you ever thought about buying or selling a business but felt unsure about where to start? Understanding the process can be complex, but we’ve got you covered. In our latest episode, Richard sits down with Mike to break down the steps, share valuable insights, and answer the most common questions about navigating a business sale or purchase.
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Sunbelt Business Solutions website for more information: 
https://www.sunbeltmidwest.com/

Episode 38 - Stories from the Electrical Field w/ Jay Lewis

The Chair of the Electrical Association's Membership Committee, who is set to become the Chair of the Board of Directors, and owner of Lewis Electrical Contracting and Consulting Services Inc. , Jay Lewis, joins Mike to discuss his journey and lessons learned from his years in the electrical trade. 
 
You can find Jay's contact information on his company website: 
https://lewiselectricalmn.com/about-us/ 
 
Don’t miss your chance to advance your skills—visit our website now to register for one of our upcoming code classes and secure your spot today: 
https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Online/Education/Continuing_Education_Landing_Page.aspx?hkey=fa23b0ac-5ed9-4b43-8b58-d93cac1f1a2b 

Episode 37 - Center for Energy and Environment Workforce Programs w/ Sarah Northrup

Workforce Program Manager, Sarah Northrup, joins Mike to talk about the workforce training program CEE implements. 
 
To learn more  you can go directly to CEE's website: 
https://www.mncee.org
 
Don’t miss your chance to advance your skills—visit our website now to register for one of our upcoming code classes and secure your spot today: 
https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Online/Education/Continuing_Education_Landing_Page.aspx?hkey=fa23b0ac-5ed9-4b43-8b58-d93cac1f1a2b 

Episode 36 - Earned Sick and Safe Time Mandates w/ Martin Kappenman, Peters & Kappenman

Attorney Martin Kappenman at Peters & Kappenman sits down with Mike to give him an update on the Earned Sick and Safe Time mandates that went into effect earlier this year. 
 
To get in touch with Martin you can go to his website: 
https://www.pklaborlaw.com/
 
Don’t miss your chance to advance your skills—visit our website now to register for one of our upcoming code classes and secure your spot today: 
https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Online/Education/Continuing_Education_Landing_Page.aspx?hkey=fa23b0ac-5ed9-4b43-8b58-d93cac1f1a2b 

Episode 35 - Association Membership Benefits w/ Michelle Dreier, Electrical Association

Our very own Michelle Dreier, Director of Member Engagement & Government Affairs, sits down with Mike to talk about all the amazing benefits that the Electrical Association has to offer to our members. 
 
You can learn more about the Electrical Association's membership benefits on our website: 
https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Online/Membership/Member_Benefits_Tab.aspx?hkey=60938c16-be05-4d10-872f-7796edac71b4 

Episode 34 - Association Healthcare Plan Update w/ Cody Larsen, North Risk Partners

On this episode, Mike Miller talks with Cody Larsen, Program Manager for Employee Benefits at North Risk Partners, about the Association Healthcare Plan, Health Spark, and the 2025 changes to the plan.
 
You can find more information about Health Spark on our website: https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Membership/Health_Plan.aspx
 
If you are interested in receiving a quote from North Risk, please contact Eveline Meidt at eveline.meidt@northriskpartners.com.