Best Watts Up Renewables Podcasts (2025)

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EP 43 - Erika Migliaccio | Upstream HR Strategies | The Platinum Rule 1:10:06

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3d ago1:10:06

1:10:06

What does it take to lead with empathy in today’s workplace? Adam Tiefenthaler sits down with leadership expert Erika Migliaccio, creator of Upstream HR Strategies, to explore the power of the Platinum Rule—treating others the way they want to be treated. 💡 From reshaping traditional leadership norms to creating environments where people truly thri…

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Off-Grid Truths with Rebekah Carpenter: 25 Years of Solar, DIY Myths & Battery Reality 50:01

1d ago50:01

50:01

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Rebekah Carpenter didn’t just “get into” solar—she jumped on a plane to Mali to install an off-grid system after teaching herself the trade. Two decades later, she’s still providing results and calling BS where needed. We cover the early net-metering era, 48V throwbacks, the DIY wave, when batteries are sma…

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Startups, Soft Hands & Solar: Ziwen Deng on Training the Next Energy Workforce with SureStep 43:58

10d ago43:58

43:58

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, I sit down with Ziwen Deng, a startup founder, innovator, and renewable energy trailblazer. We get real about the challenges of immigrant grit, the future of skilled trades, and why the renewable industry desperately needs fresh hands in the field. Ziwen shares…

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EP 42 - William Taylor | Altair Energy Service | From Military Service To Turbine Service 51:17

10d ago51:17

51:17

What does it take to transition from serving in the military to leading in renewable energy? 🪖⚡ In this episode, we talk with William Taylor of Altair Energy Services to discuss: ✅ How military training can translate into leadership in renewables ✅ Why industry-wide safety standards matter more than ever ✅ The power of sharing stories and lessons l…

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EP 41 - Dwayne Kitchen | Global Safety Group | Safety Is Your Responsibility 1:16:54

20d ago1:16:54

1:16:54

🔒⚡ Safety isn’t optional — it’s your responsibility. In this episode, we sit down with Dwayne Kitchen, an industry safety expert, to unpack what safety really means in today’s renewable energy landscape. From the jobsite to the control room, safety practices don’t just protect people — they strengthen reliability across the entire grid. 🌍 Key topic…

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Cesar Barbosa: Building an Elite Solar Workforce Reinventing Solar 37:05

26d ago37:05

37:05

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, Emmitt Muckles sits down with Cesar Barbosa, founder of New Life Power, for an unfiltered conversation about leadership, grit, and the evolving landscape of solar energy. From pulling panels in the field to leading multi-million-dollar repowering projects, Cesa…

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EP 40 - Ops In The Field Vs. Behind The Desk | Ross Bohmann | Altair Energy Services 1:08:00

27d ago1:08:00

1:08:00

For the first time ever, we’re going remote! In this episode, I sit down with Ross Bohmann from Altair Energy Services to talk about the evolving world of renewable energy from a fresh perspective. We cover: ⚡ What it’s like to operate in the field vs. behind the desk 🌬️ How Altair is tackling challenges in wind, solar, and battery projects 🛠️ The …

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Codes, Standards & Solar Passion: David Compaan on Quality, Training & PV Growth 41:04

1M ago41:04

41:04

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, Emmitt Muckles sits down with solar veteran and quality engineering manager David Compaan of IGS Solar. David has inspected over 3,000 PV systems and holds NABCEP PVIP and PV System Inspector certifications. Together, they dive deep into the importance of code …

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EP 39 - Aaron Boles | ETI Energy Tools | Business Tactics & Knowledge Transfer 1:13:49

1M ago1:13:49

1:13:49

In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Boles of ETI Energy Tools, to talk about much more than just gear. We dive into: 🔹 The power of stepping back from the day-to-day grind — and why rest is crucial for long-term performance 🔹 How current tariffs and policy shifts are shaping the renewables market 🔹 The vision behind ETI’s all-in-one toolkits fo…

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Clayton Hanks C. H. Eletrical 38:44

1M ago38:44

38:44

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this honest and wide-ranging episode, solar installer Clayton Hanks of CH Electrical joins host Emmitt Muckles to reveal what it’s really like installing solar in Southern Illinois. From fighting misleading PPA contracts and educating coal miners about solar to experimenting with agrivoltaics in his own …

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EP 38 - Braden Kimball | Altair Energy Services | Educating The Next Generation of Technicians 1:13:12

1M ago1:13:12

1:13:12

In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we’re joined by Braden Kimball of Altair Energy Services, a leader passionate about developing the next generation of renewable energy technicians. From the importance of proper tool kit preparation 🧰 to the realities of a traveling technician lifestyle ✈️, Braden offers practical insights and firsthand expe…

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Solar, Surfing & Storytelling: Aaron Nichols on Changing the Industry One Truth at a Time 52:22

2M ago52:22

52:22

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Aaron Nichols' solar story is unlike anything you’ve heard. From Peace Corps dreams cut short to meeting circus girls on an Ecuadorian beach, Aaron’s path into clean energy is fueled by passion, missteps, and purpose. Join host Emmitt Muckles as he and Aaron unpack the real solar story—from the ground-level…

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EP 37 - Father & Son Duo | Nick & Wyatt Park, Adam & Colton Tiefenthaler 1:16:20

2M ago1:16:20

1:16:20

Join our host & his son, Colton, Nick Park & his son, Wyatt, as they reflect on growing up with fathers who paved the way in the renewable energy industry — and now walking their own paths as technicians in the field. ⚡👷‍♂️ From early career challenges to the realities of safety culture, this episode dives into what it’s like to carry a legacy, bui…

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Residential Clean Energy Credit Abrupt Termination and Impact 15:50

2M ago15:50

15:50

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," enacted on July 4, 2025, has dramatically and abruptly eliminated the Residential Clean Energy Credit (RCEC) for homeowner-owned systems after December 31, 2025. This legislative action starkly contrasts with the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022, which had extended the…

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Brick Maier on AI, LMS Tools & Empowering Solar Learners at HeatSpring 54:04

2M ago54:04

54:04

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Join Emmitt Muckles on the Watts Up Solar Podcast as he talks with Brick Maier of HeatSpring, a media-savvy L&D expert revolutionizing solar education. They dive deep into how AI and LMS platforms are transforming training for solar professionals and consumers alike. From the future of voice narration to th…

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EP 36 - Mike Williams | A Story of Resilience 1:13:40

2M ago1:13:40

1:13:40

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Williams, a veteran who has found much success in renewable energy! Mike shares his personal journey — from serving in the military to becoming a mentor and educator for those following a similar path. We dive deep into: 🔹 The challenges of military-to-civilian transition 🔹 Mental health and how you can help 🔹…

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Digital Twins & Solar Truths: How Wattch.io is Redefining Monitoring with Alex Heller 48:15

2M ago48:15

48:15

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, host Emmitt Muckles sits down with Alex Heller, Head of Sales and Business Development at Wattch, to explore how data and digital twin technology are transforming the way we monitor, manage, and maintain solar and storage systems. Alex shares his personal journ…

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EP 35 - Renewable Wives & Wine 02 | Part 2 48:47

2M ago48:47

48:47

🎙️ In Part Two of our Renewable Wives & Wine special, we're diving deeper into the stories of the incredible women driving the renewable energy industry forward. 🌬️☀️🔋 From managing chaos behind the scenes to mentoring techs in the field, these women are the quiet (and sometimes not-so-quiet 💁‍♀️) force shaping the industry. We talk: ✨ Supporting t…

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Solar Generators, Second-Life Panels & Building Solar-Powered Communities w/ Adam C. Powers 31:52

2M ago31:52

31:52

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this inspiring episode, Emmitt Muckles interviews Adam C. Powers, solar educator, data management expert, and community leader, about how to bring solar equity and sustainability to under-resourced communities. Adam shares his journey from Omnidian to founding KEK Tech Labs, building microgrids from seco…

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EP 34 - Renewable Wives & Wine 02 | Part 1 58:44

2M ago58:44

58:44

In this special two-part episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we’re handing the mic to the women behind the workers — the wives and partners of those in the renewable energy industry. ⚡💬 Part 1 dives into the personal side of the profession — the love stories that started on the job, the impact of renewable careers on relationships, and what it really …

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EP 33 - Steven Errickson | Eriksun Energy 1:07:58

3M ago1:07:58

1:07:58

🔥 What sets apart the people who just can’t seem to fail? In this energizing episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Steven Errickson of Eriksun Energy — a leader who’s built a career on resilience, bold decisions, and lifting others along the way. Together, we break down what it really takes to stand out and succeed in renewables, leader…

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Beyond the Install: A Conversation with Derek "The Solar Boi" Mast 53:53

3M ago53:53

53:53

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Join us on the What's Up Solar Podcast for an illuminating conversation with Derek "The Solar Boi" Mast! Starting in 2014 with a background in electrical work, Derek quickly found his niche in troubleshooting and maintaining aging solar systems, from small residential setups to massive multi-megawatt utilit…

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Solar Truths & Training Tales with Greg Smith (Tigo Energy, Author of The Battery-Powered Home) 39:24

3M ago39:24

39:24

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this powerful and fun episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, host Emmitt Muckles sits down with Greg Smith—a solar training legend, Navy veteran, and author of The Battery-Powered Home—to unpack the truth about solar batteries, shady “solar bros,” why manuals still matter, and how to make solar education…

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EP 32 - Michael Sharon & Ray Schindler | Airstreams Graduates 1:25:02

3M ago1:25:02

1:25:02

From boots on the ground to boots on the tower 👷‍♂️⚡ This week on Watt’s Up Renewables, we’re joined by two incredible guests — proud graduates of Airstreams Renewables, the school helping veterans launch powerful new careers in clean energy. 🇺🇸🔋 We dive into their journey from military life to civilian life, the challenges of transitioning out of …

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Marketing Solar Smarter: Jacob Lundy on ROI-Driven Strategy for Clean Energy Companies 28:38

3M ago28:38

28:38

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, host Emmitt Muckles chats with Jacob Lundy, founder of Marketergy, a marketing firm specializing in clean energy and climate tech. With over a decade of experience and $5 million saved in ad spend for clients, Jacob dives into smart marketing tactics that actua…

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EP 31 - Adam Mecham | Become Someone Worth Following 59:10

3M ago59:10

59:10

From military discipline to clean energy leadership — Adam Mecham brings a story that’s as inspiring as it is instructive. 🇺🇸⚡ In this episode, we dive into Adam’s journey from serving in the armed forces to becoming a standout leader in the renewable energy space. He shares how the “crawl, walk, run” mindset—built during his time in the military—b…

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Enphase’s Commercial Microinverter Strategy Is a Game-Changer IQ83P Microinverter– with Chad Bodmer 36:38

3M ago36:38

36:38

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this electrifying episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, host Emmitt Muckles interviews Chad Bodmer, a licensed electrician and NABCEP PV Installation Professional with over 12 years in the solar industry. Chad shares his journey from field installer to Commercial & Industrial Trainer at EnPhase Energy, …

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From Solar Roots to Wind Energy Heights: Ari Simmons 43:33

3M ago43:33

43:33

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/xwtKGcNVpNs Welcome to the What’s Up Solar Podcast with your host Emmitt Muckles, solar educator, trainer, and advocate for the sun! In this episode, we shine a light on Ari Simmons, a passionate clean energy communicator currently serving as a Service Communications Profe…

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Ep 30 - Patrick Betzel | People Are Much More Then Their Resume 1:20:31

4M ago1:20:31

1:20:31

✨ On today’s episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome Patrick Betzel — a true believer in the power of people behind the renewable energy movement. From hiring based on character over credentials 👤📄, to recognizing how your field techs represent your brand every single day 🔧🌟, Patrick reminds us that the future of energy isn’t just about innovat…

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AgriVoltaics, Carbon Sinks, and the Future of Sustainable Solar | Tyler Kanczuzewski - Inovateus Solar 45:04

4M ago45:04

45:04

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_fD-8I-q-io In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, host Emmitt Muckles sits down with Tyler Kanczuzewski, VP of Sustainability and board member at Inovateus Solar, LLC. They dive deep into the Midwest’s evolving solar landscape—from sustainable EPC practices and ze…

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Welcome to the Watts Up Solar Podcast | Meet Emmitt Muckles, Your Solar Guide 8:01

4M ago8:01

8:01

Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Welcome to the Watts Up Solar Podcast, where sun meets strategy I’m your host, Emmitt Muckles — solar educator, consultant, and lifelong STEM nerd turned solar advocate. In this very first episode, I get personal and explain why I started this podcast. Because I love people, I love solar, and I believe the …

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EP 29 - Ian Steele | How Great Leaders Build Safe, Trusted Teams 1:07:33

4M ago1:07:33

1:07:33

In this powerful episode, we're joined by Ian Steele with Here to Serve Workforce Solutions, a seasoned leader in the renewables industry, for an insightful and energizing conversation you won't want to miss! ⚡️ We dive into: 🦺 The critical importance of safety culture – and why Stop Work Responsibility is more than just a policy, it's a mindset. 👥…

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EP 28 - EJ Bistline | The Positivity Behind Velociwrapper 1:28:06

4M ago1:28:06

1:28:06

💡 Watt’s Up Renewables brings you an inspiring conversation with EJ Bistline, co-founder of Velociwrapper! 🛠️ He shares his story of creating a successful cable wrapping business, his philosophy on working with a positive outlook, and valuable life lessons that will motivate you to stay focused and resilient. 🌟 Plus, we discuss Velociwrapper's futu…

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EP 27 - Ross Bohmann | Building Technician Culture 1:15:00

5M ago1:15:00

1:15:00

In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Ross Bowman, a boots-on-the-ground leader in the wind energy industry, to explore what true technician culture looks like. Ross shares insights from his cross-country journey to support wind turbine sites, including high-risk repairs, rope access jobs, and the importance of developing a vers…

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EP 26 - David Watkins 1:16:34

5M ago1:16:34

1:16:34

22 years in renewables covering wind, solar and energy storage in my span. Following in the footsteps of many before us including my father. In 20+ years in renewables I have found it to be rewarding, fulfilling, challenging and sometimes extremely frustrating. I would not change a thing about my time in renewable energy.…

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EP 25 - Aaron Boles: ETI Energy Tools 1:16:44

6M ago1:16:44

1:16:44

"With over 25 years in renewable field service and operations, I’ve learned that the right tools, mindset, and relationships are essential to success. At our company, we believe in more than just technical excellence; we value the friendships, networks, and connections built throughout our careers. These relationships are key to fostering collabora…

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EP 24 - Joe Chacon: Padge Engineering 1:27:16

6M ago1:27:16

1:27:16

Join us in our conversation with Joe from Padge Engineering. We talk about frequency drives, safety in the industry, and electrical hazard mitigation. Don't miss this insightful and knowledge filled episode!By Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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EP 23 - Alex Jones: DSPTCH 1:03:38

6M ago1:03:38

1:03:38

"DSPTCH is technology for technicians. Our unique focus on field-level productivity allows us to build products that are instant value adds. We believe aligning incentives with technicians is the most elegant way to achieve great outcomes." Download their app today!By Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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EP 22 - Intersolar & Energy Storage North America Conference 2025 28:15

6M ago28:15

28:15

Join us as we explore the Intersolar & Energy Storage North America conference. Watch live interviews with companies such as Fluke, Nvent, & Velociwrapper. Watch as we showcase new technologies and concepts coming to the market. Get to know great companies and products through our Intersolar walkthrough!…

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EP 21 - THE LEGENDS: Doug Wickersham | Part 2 1:24:02

7M ago1:24:02

1:24:02

Honoring the trailblazers who transformed renewable energy from a vision into reality. Through powerful conversations, we dive into their stories, innovations, and the lasting impacts they've had on the renewable energy industry!By Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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EP 20 - THE LEGENDS: Doug Wickersham | Part 1 1:09:13

7M ago1:09:13

1:09:13

Honoring the trailblazers who transformed renewable energy from a vision into reality. Through powerful conversations, we dive into their stories, innovations, and the lasting impacts they've had on the renewable energy industry!By Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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EP 19 - Juan Acuna Jr: Rise Renewable Energy 1:22:05

7M ago1:22:05

1:22:05

Join us in our conversation about start work authority/ stop work responsibility, Juan's career from concrete to renewable energy and all about situational awareness.By Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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EP 18 - Renewable Town Talks: Cliff Suazo 1:08:46

7M ago1:08:46

1:08:46

Celebrating the people and places where renewable energy meets community life with, Cliff Suazo, owner of Doghouse and Savannah's Old Town Saloon in Tehachapi, CA. Come join the community!By Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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EP 17 - Colton Tiefenthaler 1:03:14

8M ago1:03:14

1:03:14

"I'm 26 and just finished my first year as a utility solar technician. I've spent my first year learning how to be safe and efficient while working on a solar power plant, and i'm excited for the future of my career and the industry of renewable energy production."By Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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EP 16 - Stephen San Juan: Rise Renewable Energy 1:15:03

8M ago1:15:03

1:15:03

We have Stephen from Rise Renewable Energy on for the second time. Join us as we talk about the importance of real world training, where the industry needs to improve on safety and if we believe online training is truly helpful or not!By Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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EP 15 - Nick Park 1:04:27

8M ago1:04:27

1:04:27

"I have been blessed beyond measure to have been in the right place and at the right time throughout my working career. I stand on the shoulders of a few great mentors to whom I will always be grateful. My #1 professional priority is the safety of my people" - Nick ParkBy Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

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Before You Move Out of America, Consider Moving Toward Love w Sonya Renee Taylor 36:20

9M ago36:20

36:20

On this season finale of “America, Who Hurt You?” Sarah Jones sits down with New York Times bestselling author and activist, Sonya Renee Taylor to discuss why radical self love IS the moment. Yes, even in the face of oppressive systems and the current American Bro-ligarchy. Sonya reminds us that, in order to build the world we want to live in, we m…

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EP 14 - Erick Sanchez: Altair Energy Services 1:03:03

9M ago1:03:03

1:03:03

"I'm the guy that remembers his origins, always looking for ways to improve on as many aspects of life as possible. I cherish every opportunity to learn, as it only makes me a better person. Working in renewable energy has given me great opportunities to learn, meet new people and see many places I didn't even knew I would. It's very satisfying."…

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The Only Way Out is Through (Community) w. Sophia Bush 42:16

9M ago42:16

42:16

In case the holiday season and heading into (project 🫠) 2025 is feeling like an emotional mixed bag, this week Sarah Jones sits down with actress, producer, and activist, Sophia Bush for her take on how to show up for change and healing both individually and collectively. After coming through a year of personal upheaval to find freedom on the other…

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EP 13 - Jon Zalar: IWTG Consulting 53:29

9M ago53:29

53:29

IWTG Consulting is dedicated to optimizing the performance and longevity of your wind farms through expert guidance and innovative solutions. Founded by Jon Zalar, a seasoned professional with over 12 years of experience in wind turbine design, operability, and troubleshooting, IWTG Consulting combines deep industry knowledge with a commitment to e…