Jim Schafer sits down with colleagues Ryan McGushin and Trevor Morrison for a mid-year state of the energy industry: how private equity now backs ~75% of the client base, why selling got harder, the in-office vs. remote debate, and how to spot — and lose — top talent.

Five years after his pandemic-era first appearance, public-finance veteran Charlie Zitnik of D.A. Davidson returns for Part Two: every MUSH-market deal is a four-legged round table, and the ESCOs whose projects survive bring finance to the table on day one — not at the goal line.

Jazz school didn't prepare David Karlsgodt for a career in district energy — but a spreadsheet at Michigan State did. Now a VP at Brailsford & Dunleavy, he's spent fifteen years helping colleges and universities turn complicated infrastructure ideas into deals that actually pencil. We talk progressive P3s, why housing deals are easier than energy deals, and where higher-ed is headed over the next decade.

An inside look at Allumia’s approach to energy-as-a-service, utility partnerships, and hiring talent that can grow with the business.

A personal and professional look at Gabe’s mission to improve the environment, build strong teams, and reshape C&I energy consumption.

A conversation on geothermal innovation and Bryan’s people-first approach to building strong engineering teams.

How culture, mentorship, and values help RVE retain and grow top engineering talent.

Phil Johnston reveals how his firm turns consulting insights into turnkey energy efficiency solutions.

In a polarized space, David focuses on practical, profitable sustainability — and how to plan 100 years ahead.

Explore how HydroPoint is shaping the water efficiency space—and what it takes to build a strong team.

Learn how Fritz combines innovative financing with smart hiring to build a mission-driven company.

Streamlining Hiring: A Game Changer

Hiring mistakes cost time and money. In our latest episode, Chris Recine of EnViron Energy shares what he's learned from years of hiring, firing, and scaling in the energy efficiency space. Hear how character and motivation drive success.

From entrepreneur to director at XPEL, Harry Rahman shares how window film tech is disrupting the building efficiency space. Plus, his honest take on hiring mistakes and what really matters in recruitment.

This episode dives into AEE's mission, mentorship, and the importance of people in energy efficiency.

Case Study: How we helped a mechanical contractor’s energy services division successfully hire outside the traditional talent pool by prioritizing solution-selling skills over direct industry experience.

Jim provides an update of the NAESCO federal workshop, noting both optimism within the Department of Defense for continued energy efficiency projects and pessimism due to federal agency project cancellations and pauses.

Clay shares his insights on where the industry is headed, including the role of sensor technology and smart hiring strategies.

Jon shares insights on hiring top talent and fostering a thriving team culture.

A candid conversation on hiring, innovation, and the future of decarbonization in cities.