Spark’n Conversations

Episode 32 - Residential Energy Efficiency w/ Nik Allen, Northeast Coordinator for Clean Energy Resource Teams

Clean Energy Resource Teams is an organization that is helping individuals, businesses, and communities all over the state of Minnesota with their clean energy projects.  Nik joins Mike on this episode to discuss clean energy, what CERT can do to assist in projects, and so much more! 
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Clean Energy Resource Teams website to learn more: https://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/ 

Episode 31 - Solar Energy w/ Logan O'Grady, MnSEIA

With increasing awareness of environmental issues, solar energy is gaining prominence as a vital part of the energy conversation. The Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association (MnSEIA) is committed to advocating and supporting the growth of solar and energy sectors in Minnesota.  Logan appears on the podcast with Mike to highlight the crucial role of solar energy and MnSEIA's initiatives in providing Minnesotans with a safe, renewable energy source.  After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the MnSEIA website to learn more: https://www.mnseia.org/

Episode 30 - unCommon Construction w/ Spencer Grant

unCommon Construction is a nonprofit organization that provides students with opportunities to build houses together, enhancing their technical, professional, and personal skill sets. In this episode, Minneapolis Site Director Spence Grant joins Mike to discuss the program’s purpose, eligibility requirements, and additional details
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the unCommon Construction website to learn more: 
https://uncommonconstruction.org/ 

Episode 29 - Answering 2023 Code Questions w/ Dean Hunter, MN Dept of Labor and Industry

Dean Hunter, the Chief Electrical Inspector with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, is making a return appearance on our podcast to tackle questions about the 2023 electrical code.

Episode 28 - Insurance 101 w/ Jordy Christian, Federated Insurance

The Electrical Association and Federated Insurance have been partnering for over 60 years. In our latest podcast, Mike sits down with Regional Marketing Manager, Jordy Christian, to discuss everything you need to know about insurance.  
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Federated Insurance website: 
https://www.federatedinsurance.com/

Episode 27 -Medium Voltage Changes w/ Chris Yelle, ElectroTech

Join Mike and Chris in this episode as they unpack the 2023 electrical code amendments, with a spotlight on alterations to medium voltage regulations. Get insights into the extended rules and a comprehensive discussion on how these changes will shape the landscape of the electrical industry.
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to ElectroTech's website: 
https://www.electrotech-inc.com/

Episode 26 - Buying or Selling A Business w/Richard Jahnke, Business Broker

Have you considered buying or selling a business? Do you need help in figuring out how the process works? Richard sits down with Mike in our latest episode to help answer your questions when it comes to buying or selling a business. 
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Sunbelt Business Solutions website for more information: 
https://www.sunbeltmidwest.com/
 

Episode 25 - Lake Street Works w/ Jess Coykendall, Program Director

The Electrical Association has collaborated with Lake Street Works well before the creation of their workforce development program. Jess and Mike sit down for a discussion, delving into what the program is, the students, and so much more! 
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Lake Street Works website to learn more: 
https://www.lakestreetworks.org/

Episode 24 - Goodwill-Easter Seals w/ Kristen Hoyles, Workforce Development Manager

Goodwill-Easter Seals is a workforce partner of the Electrical Association. Mike sits down with Kristen to learn about the organization, the YouthBuild program, and more! 
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Goodwill-Easter Seals YouthBuild website to learn more: 
https://www.goodwilleasterseals.org/services/youthyoung-adult-services/youthbuild 

Episode 23 - Summit Academy OIC w/ Amanda Hardy, Employment Engagement Manager

Summit Academy OIC is one of the Electrical Association's workforce partners. Mike sits down with Amanda to learn about the school, the participants, and much more. Take a listen! 
 
After listening to the podcast you can go directly to Summit Academy's website to learn more: 
https://saoic.org/