Field Frequency

Send us Fan MailCharging infrastructure is expensive. Fleets can't pause while the technology matures. And every kilowatt-hour has to compete with diesel on a dollars-per-mile basis. So how do you actually electrify heavy-duty freight without bolting on a green premium?On this episode of Field Frequency, Jason is joined by Sean Ackley, VP of Energy & Infrastructure, and Josie-Dee Li, Product Director of Energy & Infrastructure at Einride — a freight tech company tying together electric trucks, autonomous vehicles, energy infrastructure, and a digital ecosystem called Saga.In this conversation:Sean and Josie-Dee's paths through e-mobility, utilities, smart home, and EV chargingThe origin and operational role of Einride's cabless autonomous eBotWhy an autonomous future has to be an electric futureThe four cost pillars of delivering electric fuel — land, hardware, O&M, and go-to-market — and how each one impacts TCOHow Saga blends route planning, charging reservations, state-of-charge tracking, and dynamic routing into one pane of glassThree charging models: private depots, third-party hubs, and Einride-managed sites with co-located solar and storageEnergy arbitrage, wholesale capacity offtake, and monetizing electrons back to the gridReal proof that mixed electric/diesel fleets can hit — and even beat — diesel TCO parityWhat MCS charging, bigger batteries, and on-the-go fueling unlock for the next wave of adoptionWhether you run a fleet, build charging infrastructure, or work anywhere in freight tech, this is a grounded look at the economics, execution, and digital tooling behind heavy-duty electrification today.ConnectLearn more about Einride: einride.tech Find Sean Ackley and Josie-Dee Li on LinkedInField Frequency is powered by Field Advantage — an IT field services company specializing in deployment, maintenance, and operation of critical infrastructure, including EV charging networks. Learn more at fieldadvantage.com.Produced and edited by Autozy — autozy.co

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, Carter Li, CEO of SWITCH, shares his journey into the EV industry and dives into the challenges and evolution of EV charging infrastructure. From reliability and uptime to industry accountability and future growth, this conversation explores what it will take to mature the EV charging experience and build driver trust.Show Notes:Carter Li’s origin story and the founding of SWITCHThe challenge of EV charging in multifamily housingGrowth of Switch to 20,000+ charging ports across North AmericaDifferent EV charging business models (CPO, software, ownership structures)Customer experience gaps between EV charging and traditional fuelingThe role of real-time data tools like PlugShare and Google MapsWhy uptime metrics can be misleading and how to define true reliabilityAccountability in the EV ecosystem: CPOs, OEMs, and service providersOperational challenges and the importance of maintenance (O&M)Hardware evolution and the importance of iteration in charger designIndustry growing pains and the shift toward maturityThe need for collaboration, transparency, and shared dataMarket outlook: consolidation, scalability, and sustainable business modelsWhy the next wave of EV adoption depends on better first impressions

Send us Fan MailThe EV market isn't collapsing — it's resetting. In this episode of Field Frequency, automotive journalist and Car and Driver contributing editor John Voelcker breaks down what the so-called EV pullback actually means, why full-size electric pickups were a product planning misstep, and what it's going to take to get affordable EVs into the hands of everyday buyers.John brings over 15 years of dedicated EV coverage — including 4,800+ articles as founding editor of Green Car Reports — and pulls no punches on where the industry got it right, where it got it wrong, and what comes next.We dig into why profitability (not ideology) has to drive EV strategy, how Ford and GM are quietly rethinking their entire EV platforms, why the charging experience still isn't being explained to buyers, and whether convenience stores — not dedicated charging networks — might be the ones to finally normalize public charging.If you follow the EV space, this conversation will challenge some assumptions.In this episode:00:00 — Intro00:47 — John's path into automotive journalism06:54 — What "EV pullback" actually means11:23 — Profitability vs. ideology: why OEMs are resetting15:18 — Cheaper EVs are coming — Ford, GM, and Slate24:04 — Why full-size EV pickups missed the mark29:13 — The state of public charging and consumer education35:08 — Convenience stores and "Charging 2.0"39:58 — Direct-to-consumer vs. the franchise dealer model43:18 — Where to find John's workConnect with John Voelcker:LinkedIn: Search "John Voelcker"Bluesky: @johnvoelckerSide project: Tempting Fate Tours (YouTube)About Field Frequency:Field Frequency is powered by Field Advantage, an IT field services company specializing in the deployment, maintenance, and operation of critical infrastructure, including EV charging networks.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, Eduardo Espinal shares a powerful perspective on the human side of the EV industry—reflecting on its shift from mission-driven beginnings to profit-focused growth.The conversation explores leadership, culture, and the importance of purpose, transparency, and storytelling in building sustainable organizations that retain talent and drive real impact.Overview:Journey from traditional automotive to EV driven by purposeEarly EV industry rooted in mission and impactKey Topics:Shift from “missionaries” to profit-driven mindsetThe risk of treating people as commoditiesImportance of leadership, culture, and core valuesWhy storytelling and documentation matterWarning signs of unhealthy company cultureCareer Insights:Listen to your instincts when evaluating companiesLook for transparency, values alignment, and leadership integrityAsk better questions during interviewsBig Takeaway:Long-term success in EV depends not just on technology and infrastructure, but on strong culture, authentic leadership, and a clear sense of purposeEduardo Espinal BioEduardo Espinal is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in sales and management, known for his servant leadership approach and commitment to creating meaningful impact. He combines strategic vision with a people-first mindset, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and strong values.He has a proven track record in driving revenue growth, building long-term client relationships, and leading enterprise-wide initiatives. Skilled in business development, communication, and cross-functional collaboration, he excels at identifying opportunities, launching new ventures, and optimizing performance.Eduardo is also recognized for developing talent, fostering high-performing teams, and influencing stakeholders through a consultative and results-driven leadership style.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, Rohan Puri, co-founder of Stable, breaks down how data and predictive analytics are transforming EV charging from guesswork into a disciplined, ROI-driven business.The conversation explores how better site selection, utilization forecasting, and dynamic pricing are key to building profitable charging networks—and why the industry must move beyond early deployment habits toward financially sustainable strategies.Guest: Rohan Puri, Co-Founder, StableOverview:Stable provides software to optimize EV charger placement, pricing, and performanceFocus on maximizing utilization and accelerating ROIKey Topics:Why early EV charging deployments missed the markImportance of data-driven site selectionUtilization as the key driver of profitabilityDynamic pricing and its growing adoptionCommon misconceptions (traffic ≠ charging demand)Industry Insights:High utilization is concentrated in a small number of sitesCo-locating chargers can increase usage, not reduce itPrivate equity interest signals market maturationBig Takeaway:EV charging success depends on treating infrastructure like a business—driven by data, pricing strategy, and disciplined investment decisionsFeatured Guest Bio Rohan Puri is the Co-Founder and CEO of Stable Auto, an EV charging data analytics platform. He focuses on addressing one of the biggest barriers to widespread EV adoption—the lack of reliable and scalable charging infrastructure—by enabling more informed, data-driven decision-making.To support this, Stable’s proprietary software leverages AI to analyze prospective charging sites and predict long-term profitability. Drawing on more than 70 million data points, the platform helps charging networks, infrastructure developers, and financial institutions forecast EV charging usage and costs over the lifecycle of a charger.Prior to founding Stable, Rohan developed software and machine learning models at MIT Media Lab, where he contributed to the advancement of diagnostic devices and biometric sensors. In parallel with his work at MIT, he advised technology startups through Techstars and the Harvard Innovation Lab and has also spoken at TEDx event

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, Galen Heyman of Ekoenergetica shares how his background in service and solar shaped his approach to building EV charging infrastructure. The conversation highlights Ecoenergetica’s entry into the North American market, backed by proven European technology and a vertically integrated model.A key focus is the importance of designing service as a core strategy—not an afterthought—along with the need for better reliability metrics beyond “uptime.” Galen emphasizes proactive maintenance, strong feedback loops, and quality-driven growth as essential to delivering a seamless charging experience.Inside the episodeOverview:Ekoenergetica enters North America with proven European EV charging technologyFocus on quality, reliability, and long-term market growthKey Topics:Service as a core strategy, not an afterthoughtChallenges of scaling across U.S. geographyVertically integrated model (hardware, software, service)Importance of in-house testing and quality controlSupply chain planning and U.S.-based parts inventoryPerformance & Metrics:Moving beyond “uptime”Focus on fault frequency, MTTR, and first-time charge successBig Takeaway:Success in EV charging depends on proactive service, strong partnerships, and delivering a seamless end-user experienceAbout Galen HeymanGalen Heyman, current Head of Service, Training, and Logistics at Ekoenergetyka, has a multifaceted career spanning operations, sales, technical, and customer service, with a proven track record of innovation and success in startup environments. He excels at providing vision and direction to implement strategies and processes that deliver a best-in-class customer experience while driving profitable revenue growth.As a leader of customer success functions, he is adept at managing talent, resolving customer issues, and building operational excellence that results in high customer satisfaction. His expertise includes setting up network operating centers, developing training services, launching and integrating CRMs, establishing EPC branches, developing call centers, and delivering a broad range of project management and operational capabilities.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, Jason Cortes sits down with Matt Teske, Founder and CEO of Chargeway, to talk about one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption: confusion. From his roots in automotive culture to building a platform designed to simplify EV charging, Matt shares why the industry’s challenge is not just technology, but communication. Together, they explore consumer friction, charging anxiety, infrastructure visibility, OEM strategy, and what it may take to build greater confidence in electrification.In this conversation, Jason and Matt unpack the gap between EV innovation and EV understanding. Matt shares how a real-world charging mishap helped spark the idea for Chargeway and explains why he believes EV adoption is being slowed less by range and more by friction, messaging, and fuel confidence.The episode explores how Chargeway helps simplify the charging experience by translating complex charging data into a more intuitive, driver-friendly format. Jason and Matt also discuss how automakers, charging networks, dealers, and utilities each play a role in shaping the EV customer experience.In this episode, they discuss:Matt Teske’s automotive background and the origin story behind ChargewayWhy EV charging is still too complicated for the average driverHow Chargeway simplifies charging with color-coded plugs and power levelsThe difference between range anxiety and fuel confidenceWhy consumer education may be one of the biggest missing pieces in EV adoptionThe role of OEMs, dealers, charging networks, and utilities in the EV ecosystemHow inconsistent messaging may be creating more friction in the marketWhy Tesla’s charging network changed the conversation for legacy automakersThe opportunity for the EV industry to improve clarity, consistency, and trustAbout Matt TeskeMatt Teske is a storyteller and brand builder whose work has focused primarily on the automotive and energy industries. He believes that for any product or service to succeed, it needs a compelling story that connects with its audience. Those stories are rarely accidental. They are built through thoughtful planning, creative collaboration, and innovative execution.Throughout his career, Matt has led projects for some of the world’s most recognizable brands. Through his own business and as a consultant, he has served in roles including Chief Strategy Officer, creative director, brand strategist, producer, and PR manager. His work has spanned brand development for startups, concept car design, action sports apparel launches, NCAA football helmet design, international editorial writing, and even stand-up comedy.Today, Matt is focused on the growth of Chargeway, a software platform designed to simplify the electric fueling experience for EV drivers and the broader electric vehicle industry. When time allows, he also provides branding and strategy consulting across a range of industries, with a particular focus on transportation and clean energy.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, we sit down with James Cater, Senior Director of Sustainability at Global Partners, to explore what happens when petroleum retail meets electrification.James shares his “molecules to electrons” origin story, from launching one of the largest EV make-ready programs in the country at Eversource Energy to helping Global thoughtfully integrate EV charging into its retail footprint.This conversation dives into the operational, financial, and cultural realities of bringing EV charging to traditional fueling locations. From dwell time economics to demand charges, from brand control to customer loyalty, James explains why EV infrastructure is not a threat to fuel retail, but an evolution of it.The takeaway? The future forecourt is not about choosing gasoline or electrons. It is about designing an experience that makes customers want to stay.Show NotesGuest OverviewConversation with James Cater, Senior Director of Sustainability at Global PartnersFocus on petroleum retail and EV charging convergenceFrom Utility to RetailBackground at Eversource launching major EV make-ready programsTransition to building EV charging strategy within fuel retailWho Global Partners IsIntegrated midstream/downstream fuel companyRetail brands include Alltown Fresh and Honey FarmsEVs as Evolution, Not CompetitionCharging positioned as another fuel typeSelective, strategic deployment rather than “chargers everywhere”Customer Experience & Dwell TimeEV drivers stay longer, increasing in-store conversionPremium retail offerings align with EV demographicsSafety, lighting, and amenities are criticalOwnership vs. Hosting ChargersLeasing to CPOs as an entry strategyShift toward owning chargers to control brand and operationEconomics & IncentivesUtilization drives long-term valueNEVI, state, and utility incentives help de-risk projectsDemand charges are a major profitability factorScaling & Site StrategyLarger port counts and faster charging becoming standardNew-to-industry builds offer cost and infrastructure advantagesIndustry SentimentMany retailers remain cautiousInnovation depends on leadership willing to look ahead

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, Jason sits down with Kieran White, founder of Curo, to unpack one of the EV industry’s most overlooked levers: making charging infrastructure truly investable.From a rebellious start that led him from Tesla’s Model 3 launch logistics to founding Curo, Kieran shares how firsthand fleet charging pain points sparked the concept of the “Virtual Depot.” Together, they explore how contracted fleet demand can transform EV chargers from speculative infrastructure into revenue-backed assets.The conversation dives into monetizing underutilized parking, aligning fleets with real estate owners, navigating market headwinds, and why the future of EV charging depends on coordination between fleets, developers, and investors. If you care about uptime, utilization, and sustainable business models in EV charging, this episode connects the dots.Show Notes:Kieran White’s journey from Tesla logistics to founding CuroThe charging bottleneck problem that inspired the Virtual Depot modelWhat it means to treat EV chargers as investable assetsContracted fleet offtake and why revenue certainty mattersMonetizing underutilized parking infrastructureLevel 2 vs. DC fast charging in fleet environmentsSite host strategy: niche properties vs. large portfolio REITsFleet electrification headwinds and shifting regulatory dynamicsHow Curo coordinates fleets, real estate owners, and investorsThe future vision for scalable, demand-driven charging deploymentA thoughtful conversation on where EV infrastructure is headed and how smarter deployment models can move the industry from momentum to maturity.

Send us Fan MailEpisode 14 of Field Frequency explores how data quality, not just hardware deployment, will determine the success of EV charging at scale.Florent Breton explains how Paren addresses a fundamental industry flaw: drivers often receive misleading signals about charger availability and reliability. By aggregating live data from nearly all U.S. fast-charging ports, standardizing inconsistent protocols, and moving beyond anecdotal reviews, Paren provides a statistically grounded view of real-world charging performance.The conversation connects software intelligence with field realities, highlighting how actionable data helps charge point operators detect failing stalls, improve utilization, guide maintenance, and make smarter expansion decisions. With EV charging demand and infrastructure growing in parallel, Florent makes the case that reliability, transparency, and standardization are the next phase of industry evolution.The episode concludes with insights from Paren’s latest State of the Industry Report, confirming that EV charging in the U.S. is accelerating, improving, and approaching equilibrium, even as regional disparities remain.Jason sits down with Florent Breton, Co-Founder and CEO of Paren, to unpack one of the most critical challenges in EV charging today: reliable, standardized data.Florent shares his journey from Paris to San Francisco, his time leading energy operations at Tesla, and the firsthand charging frustrations that inspired him to co-found Paren. What started as a driver pain point evolved into a powerful data platform serving charge point operators, automakers, fleets, and ride-share companies.Inside the Episode:Florent’s transition from Tesla Energy to entrepreneurship in EV infrastructureWhy “uptime” does not equal “working” in EV chargingThe danger of anecdotal and crowdsourced charging dataHow Paren aggregates, standardizes, and enriches EV charging dataThe role of data in improving driver experience, utilization, and ROIActionable insights for CPOs, beyond dashboardsField realities of charger maintenance and wear pointsHow software intelligence and field service work togetherHighlights from Paren’s newly released State of the Industry ReportData Highlights from the Episode70,000 public DC fast-charging ports tracked in the U.S.100 million data events processed daily by Paren18,041 new DC fast-charging ports deployed in 2025 (+30% YoY)141 million successful DC fast-charging sessions in 2025Monthly sessions grew from 9M (early 2025) to over 13M (December)Notable InsightsReliability is multi-dimensional: power delivery, first-attempt success, session duration, and consistency all matterEV charging growth is strong but uneven across regionsUrban areas face saturation while other regions lag in adoptionBetter data enables smarter deployment, maintenance prioritization, and strategic expansionThe EV charging industry is maturing, not contractingHow to Learn MoreVisit paren.app to explore Paren’s platformDownload the free State of the Industry ReportExplore open roles on Paren’s Careers pageFollow Paren on LinkedIn for ongoing insights

Send us Fan MailGuest: Atish Patel, CEO (X-Charge Group) and Head of North America, X-ChargeHost: Jason CortesPrimary Topics: X-Charge origin story, infrastructure-first DC fast charging, ROI and uptime, maintainability, long-term viability, market outlookJason sits down with Atish Patel to unpack how X-Charge entered North America with a different philosophy: build charging hardware around the realities of existing electrical infrastructure. Atish shares how he started as a customer, struggled with ROI due to installation complexity and power constraints (especially 208V vs. 480V), then partnered with X-Charge to co-develop a North America-ready solution. The conversation covers product differentiation, operator ROI, serviceability, reliability, and how X-Charge addresses industry concerns around OEM stability.Key TakeawaysInfrastructure-first design is X-Charge’s core differentiator, especially compatibility with common U.S. site power (e.g., 208V three-phase).Reducing installation friction (simpler terminations, integrated systems) helps lower deployment cost and accelerate time-to-revenue.ROI is treated as a design principle, not just a financial metric. Uptime, maintainability, and speed-to-repair are part of the ROI story.Maintainability by design: key service items (like cables and boards) are engineered for accessibility, reducing technician time on-site.Viability strategy: transparency, standardized components, documentation/training, and partner ecosystems to avoid single-point dependency.Market outlook: optimistic growth with watchpoints on subsidies, broader economic conditions, and a shift toward “utility-first” EVs.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 12 of Field Frequency, Jason sits down with Mike Battaglia, CEO of Blink Charging, to unpack what it takes to build a profitable, reliable charging network in a market that has moved from hype to hard truths. Mike shares his journey from the automotive world and JD Power into EV infrastructure, why Blink is doubling down on owning the software and operating profitable assets, and how driver experience, uptime, and disciplined growth are shaping Blink’s “next chapter” across Level 2 and DC fast charging.Inside the EpisodeMike’s path to EV chargingThe Blink leadership climbBlink’s core DNA: owner-operator firstVertical integration, refinedDriver experience: the simplest standard winsListening loops: CSAT + NPS + diagnosticsFleets and OEMs: different needs, different playbooksReliability at scale: why partnerships matterBlink by the numbersProfitability: the industry’s overdue requirementDC fast charging strategyPolicy friction and the permitting problemCapital markets reality checkVision: what Blink success looks like in 3 years

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, Jason is joined by Brian Bradford, Commercial Lead at Universal EV Chargers, a Texas-based charge point operator with a rapidly expanding national footprint. Brian shares his journey from traditional energy and infrastructure, including early career experience during the Enron era, into the evolving EV charging landscape.The conversation explores Universal EV’s evolution from Level 2 deployments to a focused DC fast charging strategy, emphasizing utilization, capital efficiency, and reliability as the core drivers of sustainable growth. Brian outlines Universal’s disciplined CPO-only model, its approach to hardware and software flexibility, the role of public funding such as NEVI, and how customer experience, uptime, and regionalized operations shape long-term success. The episode closes with a forward-looking discussion on policy headwinds, market maturation, and what “winning” looks like for Universal EV by 2030.Show NotesGuest:Brian Bradford, CCO of Universal EV ChargersTopics Covered:Brian’s career path from traditional energy and infrastructure into EV chargingThe origin of Universal EV and its roots in Universal Solar and Universal Green GroupTransition from Level 2 charging to a DC fast charging–first strategyCurrent portfolio overview, including L2 and L3 port counts and multi-state expansionUniversal EV’s CPO-only business model and focus on operations, maintenance, and serviceBalancing utilization and capital cost as the foundation of site profitabilitySite acquisition strategy, regionalized construction, and maintenance optimizationHardware and software selection in a fragmented, commoditized marketUniversal’s approach to uptime, reliability, and owning the customer experienceLeveraging proprietary software, 24/7 service teams, and OEM partnershipsPublic funding strategy, including NEVI and state-level grant programsLessons learned from early funding challenges and industry maturationEnhancing driver experience through loyalty programs, pricing models, and AI-driven toolsPolicy volatility, market headwinds, and long-term demand for EV infrastructureUniversal EV’s five-year vision for growth, consolidation, and customer loyaltyThe future of EV charging stations as grid-edge energy assets

Send us Fan MailHost Jason Cortes sits down with Steve Burkett of Plug & Play EV and the Coast to Coast EVs livestream to explore how a passion YouTube channel grew into a trusted voice connecting EV drivers, fleets, and infrastructure players. They dig into why storytelling beats slogans for mainstream EV adoption, where charging reliability and destination charging still fall short, how to cut through hype and vaporware in EV news, and what fleets, retailers, and policymakers need to get right over the next 3–5 years.Show NotesGuestSteve Burkett – Founder of Plug & Play EV, host of Coast to Coast EVs livestream/podcast, long-time EV driver and B2B marketer focused on EV consumer education and infrastructure.In This EpisodeMeet Steve & Plug & Play EVSitting Between Drivers and the EVSE IndustryReliability: Are We Finally Turning the Corner?Destination Charging & Real-World Hotel PainStorytelling vs. Slogans (and Why “Save the Planet” Isn’t Enough)Signal vs. Noise in EV News & Tech HypeCoast to Coast EVs: What Drivers Really Talk AboutRetailers, Buc-ee’s vs. Kwik Trip & the New Fueling Mix Plug & Charge, Credit Cards & the Real Driver ExperienceFleet Electrification & Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)Lessons from CNG / LNG Fleets for EV TCOGlobal Lessons: Europe, China & StandardizationLooking 3–5 Years Ahead: Affordability & EducationResources MentionedPlug & Play EV weekly newsletter – EV driver stories, infrastructure analysis, regional station highlights.Coast to Coast EVs livestream & podcast – Deep dives on regional charging build-outs and real-world ownership.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, host Jason Cortes sits down with Benoit Lacroix, CEO of Relion, to talk about what it really takes to keep EV chargers up and running at scale. Benoit shares how his early work electrifying heavy-duty trucks led him to build Relion as an “operating layer” behind the scenes of EV charging—connecting data, people, and process from fault to fix. The conversation explores interoperability challenges, the limitations of traditional CSMS tools, why reliability is really about orchestration, and how operators, fleets, and service providers can work together to turn complexity into flow.Show Notes:The future of EV charging isn’t just about hardware, it’s about orchestrating the people, data, and processes that keep chargers working. In this episode, Jason and Benoit explore the operational realities behind charger uptime and how Relion is building the layer that turns faults into fixes.Inside the Episode:Benoit’s journey from electrifying heavy-duty trucks to founding RelionHow early lessons in remote diagnostics and telematics shaped Relion’s approachWhy EV charging reliability is a systems problem, not a hardware problemThe limits of standards like OCPP and what it takes to stay hardware-agnosticFilling the gap between CSMS tools and real-world operations workflowsHow Relion unifies operators, manufacturers, and service providers around issue resolutionImproving first-time fix rates through better triage, SOPs, and work order automationWhere Relion drives the most impact: public charging, curbside L2, fleets, and managed servicesWhy visibility, control, and faster time-to-resolution matter more than uptime promisesThe role of automation and AI in diagnostics—focused on quality over noiseRelion’s growth trajectory across Canada and the U.S.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Jason Cortes sits down with Raul Dominguez, founder of Evolve Energy, to explore the rapidly changing world of EV charging within the hospitality industry. Raul shares his journey from a civil engineering background to impactful roles at Rivian and Tesla, experiences that inspired him to launch Evolve Energy. Together, they discuss how EV charging has evolved from a luxury amenity to a guest expectation—a key factor in hotel selection, loyalty, and overall competitiveness. Raul also breaks down how Evolve Energy’s smart, cost-efficient charging solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly into hotel operations, delivering convenience for guests and long-term value for property owners.Show NotesIn this episode, Jason sits down with Raul Dominguez, founder of Evolve Energy, to discuss how his company is transforming the EV charging experience in the hospitality industry. From his early career in civil engineering to leadership roles at Rivian and Tesla, Raul’s journey reflects a deep commitment to innovation, user experience, and infrastructure scalability.They explore how Evolve Energy’s smart outlet platform is reshaping the conversation around EV charging—from being an optional amenity to an essential part of the modern guest experience.Key TopicsFrom Civil Engineering to EV Innovation Raul shares his path from transportation consulting to Rivian’s Adventure Network, Tesla’s Supercharger team, and ultimately founding Evolve Energy.Solving the “Hotel Charging Problem” A firsthand account of the challenges EV drivers face when traveling—limited access, inconsistent infrastructure, and unreliable listings.Evolve Energy’s Mission How Evolve is building smarter, lower-cost charging solutions through smart outlets and software-driven integrations—bringing scalability to hospitality parking lots nationwide.Hospitality Meets Technology Insights on how EV charging influences guest loyalty and conversion rates. With Hilton naming EV charging as its #1 global booking filter, Raul explains why charging is now as essential as Wi-Fi.ROI and Accessibility The business case for hotels: EV charging as a revenue-generating investment, not a cost. How Evolve’s platform reduces capital expenditure while expanding access.Frictionless Guest Experience Integration with hotel management systems for seamless billing and user access—no cables, screens, or payment terminals required.Future-Proofing for the EV Era Raul discusses the company’s focus on edge computing, machine learning, and hardware designed for autonomous vehicles and mass adoption.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Jason Cortes sits down with Brad Crist, CEO and co-founder of ChargeMate, to explore how AI is transforming EV charging reliability. From real-world road trip frustrations to building an AI-driven support system that bridges the gap between drivers, operators, and field technicians, Brad shares how ChargeMate is redefining service intelligence in the EV space.Show Notes:The transition to electric vehicles depends on more than just chargers—it depends on reliable charging experiences. In this conversation, Jason and Brad unpack the challenges behind EV service workflows and the role AI plays in keeping chargers online and drivers confident.Inside the Episode:Brad’s journey from environmental science to leading ChargeMateThe catalyst moment that sparked ChargeMate’s foundingIdentifying the “service gap” between drivers and charge point operatorsHow AI bridges driver-reported issues with actionable insights for service teamsSmarter dispatching and avoiding unnecessary truck rollsMaking raw charger data meaningful through context and automationBuilding serviceability by design: what CPOs and OEMs should ask about hardwareWhy “buy vs. build” matters when it comes to AI in charging operationsThe future of EV service intelligence and collaboration across the industryListen to learn: How ChargeMate is transforming EV charging from a reactive model to a proactive, intelligent, and human-centered experience—and what that means for CPOs, service providers, and drivers alike.

Send us Fan MailInside The Episode:Origin story: Zak’s path from early EV enthusiasm (2016) to founding ChargeLab in 2020 and growing to tens of thousands of managed ports.Why “smart” matters: Moving beyond “amenity” chargers to networked, monetized stations with payments, load/energy management, and telemetry so sites can scale from 2 to 20+ ports without blowing the panel—or the budget.Operator value props: ChargeLab’s CSMS (charger management), seamless QR/Apple Pay activation, robust energy management, utility integrations, and fleet/multifamily/workplace/public use cases.Reliability realities: Why ~20% failed public sessions (historically) happened—connectivity, firmware/backend misalignment, OCPP implementation differences, and driver flow issues—and how the industry is maturing past Gen-1 pitfalls.AI in the loop (Spark): Proactive monitoring across billions of charger messages to:Detect patterns that precede failures (e.g., connectivity drift, abnormal session drops).Intervene before drivers are affected (safe, targeted remote reboots; tuned timeouts/configs).Generate human-readable diagnostics for field techs to speed on-site fixes.Online vs. offline resilience: Designing for always-connected management while enabling offline authentication (RFID/credit card) with later settlement to reduce single-point failures.Tier-1 driver support (in-house): On-shore ChargeLab employees trained on EV charging, sitting near technical teams, improving first-time-driver success and protecting CPO revenue.Ops & partnerships: Clear escalation paths to hardware makers and field service partners (like Field Advantage); workflows that avoid unnecessary truck rolls while shortening true MTTR.Branding & buyer fit: Off-the-shelf for smaller sites vs. white-label apps, RFID, call flows, and UI for retailers/utilities building branded networks.The road ahead: Predictive maintenance, dynamic pricing, grid services, and raising the bar so today’s “good” becomes tomorrow’s minimum.

Send us Fan MailJason Cortes welcomes Arcady Sosinov, CEO of Tritium, for a candid look at the company’s transformation. From early wins with the RT50 to the challenges of scaling globally, Arcady shares how Tritium restructured its service model, refreshed its product roadmap, and re‑centered around long‑term infrastructure reliability. Listeners will hear how Tritium is building trust back with measurable SLAs, follow‑the‑sun support, and a new flagship platform, Triflex.HighlightsCareer path: From hedge funds to founding FreeWire Technologies, and now leading Tritium.Early impact: How the RT50 (ChargePoint CPE200) helped spark public fast charging adoption.Growing pains: Global expansion, the SPAC/NEVI era, and the hard lessons that followed.Tritium 2.0:24/7 support through a UK hub.Transparent SLA reporting with fee refunds for misses.A new Customer Success team driving regular business reviews.Product roadmap: Modular architecture, DC‑fed sites, and the upcoming Triflex platform designed for large, high‑density sites.Market view: Why subsidies can distort growth and why durable partnerships matter more.Future focus: Deep technical collaborations, cost‑per‑port efficiency, and scaling beyond 400 kW.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, host Jason Cortes sits down with Jed Routh, VP of Markets and Products at Kempower North America, to explore what makes a DC fast charger last—and why so many don’t.Jed shares his personal journey from Thomas Built Buses and Duke Energy into the EV space, offering a front-row perspective on how Kempower is translating its European success into the North American market.They cover:Kempower’s modular DC architecture and why “more plugs” often beats “more power”Lessons learned from Europe’s mature EV landscape and how they apply in the U.S.Designing for uptime and serviceability—redundancy, swappable modules, and intelligent load sharingThe realities of subsidies and funding programs like NEVI—when they help and when they hinderCustomer experience from every angle: CPOs, site hosts, utilities, and EV driversWhy the fleet market may be the ultimate growth driver for DC fast charging in North AmericaIt’s a candid look at reliability, design philosophy, and the operational challenges that outsiders often underestimate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Jason Cortes sits down with Raymond McSpirit, founder of EV Recruitment and facilitator of EV sector M&A activity. Raymond brings a rare dual perspective on capital and talent, sharing his views on where the EV ecosystem is headed and what it takes to succeed in a turbulent market.What We Cover:Raymond’s journey into the EV space and the founding of EV RecruitmentAdvice for students and early professionals trying to break into EVWhy trade shows and in-person networking are the biggest untapped edge for job seekersThe challenge of attracting and retaining top talent in a market facing hiring freezes, funding gaps, and fatigueA breakdown of the EV value chain—from OEMs to infrastructure providers to technology innovatorsThe evolving role of CPOs (Charge Point Operators) and the hurdles they face in achieving profitabilityWhy “not all money is good money” when it comes to capital, and how patient investors can make or break growthTrends in industry consolidation, creative deal structures, and new opportunities for companies positioning themselves strategicallyRaymond also previews his work in M&A origination, supporting CPOs and investors with creative solutions to align capital, portfolios, and long-term growth.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Field Frequency, host Jason Cortes sits down with Chris Kaiser, President of Plugin, for a candid look at the realities of operating EV charging sites.Chris brings 20+ years of clean energy experience, including 5 years in EV charging, and shares how Plugin is helping retailers, QSRs, and C-stores transform charging from pilot projects into fully managed, profitable destinations.They dive into:Why uptime and reliability remain the #1 challenge for CPOs.How overlooked costs (like cable replacements) can derail profitability.The role of utilities, site design, and early planning in building sustainable charging networks.Why standardization and institutional knowledge are critical for scale.What it will take for retail and convenience real estate to unlock true profitability in EV charging.The punchline? Charging can be profitable—if it’s designed with intention. Whether you’re a site host, CPO, or just curious about the next phase of charging infrastructure, this conversation cuts through the hype and gets real about what works, what breaks, and what’s next.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jason Cortes sits down with Anup Parikh, founder of Pangea Charging, for a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, personal brand, and the realities of building in the EV charging space.From being laid off multiple times to launching his own company, Anup shares how those experiences shaped the ethos behind Pangea Charging and why trust and execution often matter more than hardware specs.What you’ll hear in this episode:The journey from “layoffs to payoffs” and the origin story of Pangea ChargingWhy personal brand may be one of the most powerful assets in the EV industryThe challenges of educating the market—and when education is a secret weapon vs. a sunk costThe nuanced debate between Level 2 vs. DC fast charging, and why L2 might be the overlooked backbone of adoptionHow trust, execution, and people—not just products—will determine the winners in EV infrastructureA sneak peek at Anup & Pangea Charging’s new 2026 initiative bringing Whether you’re in the trenches of EV infrastructure or just curious about how disruptive companies get built, this episode is packed with insight and real talk you won’t want to miss.Listen now and subscribe so you never miss an episode of Field Frequency.