PODCAST · government
Hi, Energy!
by SoCalREN
Reducing energy use today is key to a safer, more affordable, and sustainable tomorrow. Introducing Hi, Energy!, where we bring you front-row access to the innovators and leaders across Southern California who are making a real difference. From demystifying the benefits of heat pumps to breaking down what decarbonization really means, we’re here to help you navigate the path to a cleaner, greener future. From landing green jobs to rethinking how we get around, we’re diving into bold ideas and everyday actions that make a real difference. Whether you’re looking to make smarter energy choices at home, work, or in your community, this podcast connects you to the conversations that will inspire change. Join us as we light the way to a brighter, more sustainable future. New episodes of Hi, Energy are coming out every month. So check out our Instagram and subscribe to the show on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@theenergyntwr
Episodes
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Hi, Energy! Podcast 305: The Secret Life of Nature in Our Cities
In this episode of Hi, Energy!, Host Esteban Gast talks with Nurit Katz, the first ever UCLA Chief Sustainability Officer and Commissioner on the Board of LADWP about creating pathways for biodiversity in the built environment. Nurit talks about finding a passion for raptors in COVID, creating...
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Hi, Energy! Podcast 304: Powering Rural Communities
In this episode of Hi, Energy!, we learn about energy accessibility for rural communities with Jess Blackwell, Program Manager at High Sierra Energy Foundation, and Host Esteban Gast. Jess Blackwell shares the real time priorities for residents in Inyo and Mono Counties, demonstrates how energy...
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Hi, Energy! Podcast 303: Climate Solutions at the Community Level
In this episode of Hi, Energy!, Host Esteban Gast is joined by Dr. Aradhna Tripati, Climate Scientist, Professor, and Founder and Director of the UCLA’s Center for Developing Leadership in Science. Together, they discuss community as a climate solution, the climate impacts we face today, and how...
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Hi, Energy! Podcast 302: What Your Utility Bill Isn't Telling You
Do you know how to read your utility bill? In this episode of Hi, Energy!, Host Esteban Gast is joined by Craig Perkins, President and Executive Director of The Energy Coalition. Together, they break down the details of your monthly electricity bill, discuss energy efficiency upgrades that can…
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Hi, Energy! Podcast 301: Building Political Power for Climate Action
In this episode of Hi, Energy!, Host Esteban Gast sits down with Mike Young, the Executive Director of California Environmental Voters to talk about political power, climate champions, and how engagement at the polls can lead to better changes at home. Mike Young shares his insights from over 20...
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Hi, Energy! Returns for Season 3!
Hi, Energy! is back for another season of expert insights with Southern California leaders, working to create solutions, workforce opportunities, and innovative partnerships, all to help communities save energy today while fostering sustainable practices for tomorrow. We’ll meet with top Southern...
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Storytelling Our Way Out of the Climate Crisis
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about Allison’s Hollywood Climate Summit, where writers, executives, fans and actors can all gather and learn about how to make Hollywood climate friendly and the role Hollywood can play in bringing climate knowledge to the public. Allison and Esteban…
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Climate Resilience and Disaster Preparedness
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about climate resilience and disaster preparedness from Nina Knierim, a fire survivor and the California Area Manager for Climate Resilience and Disaster Preparedness. Nina and Esteban discuss Nina’s personal story of surviving California wildfires, the…
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Climate Innovation In Transportation
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about how new climate-focused technology is shaping the way we move ourselves and our stuff around the world. To help us learn about that, Esteban is joined by Jack Symington, the Director of City Climate Innovation at LA Climate Incubator. Jack and Esteban...
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Bridging the Equity and Inclusion Gap Within the Green Economy
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about the power of networking through social media, and about the community of people making green jobs the norm and accessible to all. Kristy Drutman, aka “Browngirl Green,” and co-founder of The Green Jobs Board, joins the show to break down her...
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Breaking into Climate Tech and Clean Tech Transformations
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about the grid, climate tech startup culture, and California’s special relationship to climate issues. Josh Rothermel of SoCal Edison and formerly of Rivian and the UCLA Anderson Energy & Cleantech Association, joins Esteban to talk about having a career in...
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Achieving Environmental Goals Through Community Engagement
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about the connections between community engagement and environmental policy. Ken Chawkins, a professor at UCLA’s Luskin School of Public Affairs, joins the show to share wisdom from nearly 30 years in public affairs, serving business, labor, government, and...
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Climate in the News
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about how climate news is made. Sammy Roth, a former climate columnist for the LA Times and the host of the podcast and newsletter Boiling Point, has been writing about Southern California’s climate issues for over a decade. He now writes an independent...
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Driving Blueprint for Mobility and Civic Strategy
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about all of the options we have to move around LA. Eli Lipmen, Executive Director of Move LA, shares that the future of clean transit is a future with many options. Eli and Esteban discuss the 2028 Olympics from a transit perspective, some of Move LA’s...
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Putting Local Communities at the Forefront of the Climate Conversation
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about local organizations keeping the residents in the communities they serve at the forefront of the climate conversation. Esteban is joined by Nicole Landers, Director of Communications & Partnerships @ GreenWealth Energy. Nicole is a longtime climate...
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Understanding Climate Policy Decision Making
In this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about local clean energy projects and how they support a larger and greener statewide vision for California. He is joined by Heather Repenning, Vice President, Account Manager and Resilience Lead at Jacobs, and the former Executive Officer for…
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Hi, Energy! is Back!
Hi, Energy! is back! This season, we’re diving deeper into real-world stories, smart energy solutions, and local community voices driving change right here in our neighborhoods. Hear from Southern California’s best and brightest leaders rolling up their sleeves to make clean and sustainable…
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Environmental Justice: A Call For Equality
In this episode of Hi, Energy! Esteban Gast dives into the vital topic of environmental justice with Veronica Padilla-Campos, Executive Director of Pacoima Beautiful. Together, they explore what environmental justice means, the systemic issues behind environmental racism, and how climate change...
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Boosting Efficiency: SOCalREN's Impact on Cities & Schools
In this episode of Hi, Energy! Esteban Gast sits down with Rachel Pennington, Assistant Director of Energy Services at The Energy Coalition, to explore how SoCalREN’s Public Agency Program is helping cities, school districts, and government agencies save money and energy through impactful…
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Breaking Into the Green Economy
Esteban Gast dives into the exciting world of green career pathways with Ben Stapleton, Executive Director of the US Green Building Council – California. As industries shift toward sustainability, Ben breaks down the growing opportunities in fields like green building, energy efficiency, and…
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The Urban Heat Island Effect: Why It Matters and How We Can Fix It
In this episode of Hi, Energy!, Esteban Gast dives into the rising challenge of urban heat islands, especially here in Southern California where summer heat is only intensifying. But it’s not just about the problem—it’s about finding solutions! Esteban is joined by Amanda Begley, Senior Program...
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Heat Pumps: They Heat, They Cool, and They’re a Game Changer for SoCal
Esteban chats with energy engineer Evan Davis, who’s on a mission to bring heat pumps to homes across SoCal. They may not sound glamorous, but these versatile gadgets are game-changers for home heating and cooling, especially here in sunny Southern California. They’ll break down how heat pumps...
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Decarbonization 101
In the season premiere of Hi, Energy! Esteban Gast tackles a big one—decarbonization. But don’t worry, this isn’t a science class! Esteban keeps it fun and breaks it down so you can casually drop "decarbonization" into conversation like a pro. Joining him is Jakub Zielkiewicz, the Director of...
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Introducing Hi, Energy!
Reducing energy use today is key to a safer, more affordable, and sustainable tomorrow. In this season of Hi, Energy!, we bring you front-row access to the innovators and leaders across Southern California who are making a real difference. From demystifying the benefits of heat pumps to guiding…
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The Future of Women In Energy
For episode number 18 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, speaks with Tinuviel Carlson, Program Manager at The Energy Coalition, and Cassie Smith & Megan Kendall from the California Climate Action Corp, about their individual experiences in the energy industry to...
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Women in Energy: Past and Present
For episode number 17 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes Jenny Berg (recently retired) of BayREN and RaChelle Taccone with the LA County Public Works Department, about their experience in the energy industry, their challenges, and successes in their work…
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The High Sierra Energy Foundation and its Partnership with SoCalREN
With episode 16, we interviewed Pam Bold (Executive Direction of High Sierra Energy Foundation) who joined HSEF in 2015 after a hiatus spent raising two active boys and volunteering extensively in the area she serves today. As stated in her bio, “Pam has a degree in something she never worked one...
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The Las Virgenes Municipal Water District
For episode number 15 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes John Zhao, with the La Virgenes Municipal Water District. John discusses how his team is addressing water supply challenges and utilizing their partnership with SoCalREN to pave the path of energy...
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Introducing Kids to Energy Efficiency with “Kits for Kids”
For episode number 14 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes Laurie Jacobs, Program Coordinator with South Bay Cities Council of Governments, and Dan Bonn, an educator with Towne Avenue Elementary School. Both have been involved in an innovative education...
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The Greenlining Institute: Environmental Justice for Communities of Color
For episode number 13 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Greenlining Institute’s, Alvaro Sanchez, joins host Julie Castro to discuss Environmental Justice for Communities of Color. The Greenlining Institute is committed to building a just economy that is inclusive, cooperative,...
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Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE): Activism in Local Communities with RePower LA
For episode number 12 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy’s Community Organizer, Kameron Hurt, joins host Julie Castro to discuss Activism in Local Communities with RePower LA. Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE) is recognized…
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Cool Irvine: Irvine's Campaign to Reach Carbon Neutrality by 2030
For episode number 11 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Cool Irvine’s Environmental Programs Administrator, Sona Coffee, joins host Julie Castro to discuss their campaign to reach carbon neutrality by 2030. Cool Irvine’s, Cool Block Program is developed to create planet friendly,...
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USGBC-LA's Ben Stapleton on Sustainability in LA Schools and Businesses
For episode number 10 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, US Green Building Council Los Angeles (USGBC-LA) Executive Director, Ben Stapleton, joins host Julie Castro to discuss sustainability in LA schools and businesses. USGBC-LA’s focus is people and creating a more sustainable…
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The City of West Hollywood: A SoCalREN Public Agency Veteran
For episode number 9 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, City of West Hollywood Long Range Planning and Sustainability Manager, Robyn Eason, and Senior Administrative Analyst, Erin Hamant joined host Julie Castro to discuss local energy initiatives. The City of West Hollywood has been...
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Utility Debt Relief and Energy Justice with SCOPE
For episode number 8 of ReEnergizing Communities, Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education (SCOPE) Executive Director, Gloria Medina and SCOPE Member, Peggy Scott join host Julie Castro to discuss Utility Debt Relief and Energy Justice. For over 10 years, SCOPE has worked with...
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San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments and their Partnership with SoCalREN
For episode number 7 of ReEnergizing Communities, San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) Executive Director, Marisa Creter joins host Julie Castro to discuss Local and State Objectives and their Partnership with SoCalREN. SGVCOG is a regional government planning agency that aims to...
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Clean Power: Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH)
For episode number 6 of ReEnergizing Communities, Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) Program Manager, Kajsa Hendrickson joins host Chris Ford to discuss SOMAH, currently the largest solar-owned investment in the country. The program will deliver clean power and credits on energy…
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Upcoming Initiatives: CPUC and the Community
For episode number 5 of ReEnergizing Communities, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Commissioner Genevieve Shiroma joins host Chris Ford to discuss ongoing initiatives at the CPUC level. Shiroma discusses SB 350, the role local governments can play in achieving clean energy goals for...
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Assembly Bill 841 School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Pt. 2
For episode number 4 of ReEnergizing Communities, Christine Marez of Cumming Corporation joins host Chris Ford to discuss Assembly Bill 841 and the School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program that was created as a result of its passage. Marez discusses energy-related challenges schools are facing...
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Assembly Bill 841 School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Pt. 1
For episode number 3 of ReEnergizing Communities, Jay Kim from the Colton Joint Unified School District joins host Chris Ford to discuss Assembly Bill 841 and the School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program that was created as a result of its passage. Kim discusses the impact of this Program on…
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Energy Efficiency Policymaking
For episode number 2 of ReEnergizing Communities, Kurt Johnson from The Climate Center joins host Chris Ford to discuss his organization’s work, structuring energy efficiency-related policy at both the state and federal level, and how the state of California can become more energy resilient.…
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Energy Resiliency in Southern California
In the pilot episode of ReEnergizing Communities, host Dan Tyler sits down with four guests to discuss energy resiliency and the important role it plays for communities across Southern California. Energy resiliency is defined as an entity's ability to withstand or recover quickly from disruptions...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Reducing energy use today is key to a safer, more affordable, and sustainable tomorrow.
Introducing Hi, Energy!, where we bring you front-row access to the innovators and leaders across Southern California who are making a real difference. From demystifying the benefits of heat pumps to breaking down what decarbonization really means, we’re here to help you navigate the path to a cleaner, greener future. From landing green jobs to rethinking how we get around, we’re diving into bold ideas and everyday actions that make a real difference. Whether you’re looking to make smarter energy choices at home, work, or in your community, this podcast connects you to the conversations that will inspire change. Join us as we light the way to a brighter, more sustainable future.
New episodes of Hi, Energy are coming out every month. So check out our Instagram and subscribe to the show on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@theenergyntwr
HOSTED BY
SoCalREN
CATEGORIES
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