5 Questions We Must Ask Communities Now (S2:E12)

In this special season finale of Just Power, host Carolyn Parrs steps up to the mic solo to reflect on the powerful two seasons of conversations about energy equity and community in these changing times.With vulnerability and clarity, Carolyn shares what she’s learned from frontline leaders, energy experts, and advocates throughout the season—and why listening may be the most radical tool we have right now. She dives into the urgent realities facing underserved communities in our evolving energy landscape and reveals the essential questions energy providers and decision-makers must begin asking now.This episode is an invitation to slow down, build trust, and recognize the lived experiences of those who are often left out of the conversation. If you're committed to creating a clean energy future that doesn’t leave anyone behind, this solo reflection offers both inspiration and a roadmap for deeper community engagement.Here are the questions that Carolyn challenges energy providers to ask their customers now: What has changed for you or is changing for you or your community that’s affecting how you use or afford energy?What worries you most about that—and what gives you hope?What are you afraid we won't understand about your community, and what are you afraid we'll assume we understand but actually don't?What’s one small thing we could do now that would show you we’re serious about showing up differently?What would make you feel like we’re truly in this together?Whether you’re a utility leader, policymaker, advocate, or just someone who cares about justice in our energy systems, this finale is a must-listen.Let’s keep the conversation going—because a just transition needs all of us.Note: Just Power will be taking a short summer break. Stay tuned!Chapters00:00 Season Finale: Reflecting on Energy Equity02:56 Urgent Call to Action: Listening to Vulnerable Communities06:11 Building Trust: Essential Questions for Engagement09:08 The Human Connection: How to Approach Communities12:01 Closing Thoughts: A Call to Action for ChangeAbout Carolyn ParrsCarolyn Parrs is the CEO of Mind Over Markets, a branding and messaging firm that helps sustainable businesses and energy organizations communicate with clarity and power. Learn more at:Website: https://mindovermarkets.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindovermarketsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynparrs/About Just Power PodcastJust Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.🔔 Never Miss an Update! Subscribe NowYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJustPowerPodcast?sub_confirmation=1💖 Spread the LoveLike, comment, and share this episode with a friend, policy maker, or energy provider who needs to hear this.YouTubeFacebookInstagramNew Mexico State University MicrolearningMind Over MarketsLinkedIn