Best Member Owned Co Op Podcasts (2025)

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S11E21 - Board Meeting Brief, November 2025 7:30

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10d ago7:30

7:30

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the November 17th Board of Directors meeting.By Cherryland Electric Cooperative

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Enhancing the Member Experience — DEMCO’s New Call System 9:51

10d ago9:51

9:51

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO, host David Latona sits down with Galen Dunbar, DEMCO’s Chief Member Services Officer, to talk about how DEMCO is making it easier than ever to connect with your cooperative. You’ll hear how DEMCO’s new cloud-based phone system improves every call — with features like call-back options, a Spanish-la…

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From Spare Change to Real Change: Inside Operation Round Up 5:39

11d ago5:39

5:39

What can you buy for just $6 a year? While it may not sound like much of your annual budget, when it's combined with the $6 from your neighbors, friends and fellow CFEMC members it adds up to BIG change! Learn how simply rounding up your utility bill can have a big impact on families right here in our communities. We're joined by Operation Round Up…

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35. Choosing to Build a Passive House Standard Home with ReNewy Living Community Member Jess Bollinger 36:54

11d ago36:54

36:54

Choosing to knock down and rebuild a house is a big decision. But instead of a standard project home, what happens when you choose a passive house - a design built for comfort, efficiency, and sustainability? In this episode, I’d love you to meet ReNewy Living community member Jess Bollinger from Lake Macquarie, NSW. Jess works in environmental sus…

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34. Seeing Waste Differently with community artists from the Lake Mac Waste to Art Exhibition 23:23

23d ago23:23

23:23

In this episode, we’re at the closing of the 2024/ 2025 Lake Macquarie Sustainable Neighbourhoods Waste to Art exhibition. It’s a free, annual event that brings together thought-provoking artworks made entirely from waste by people across the community. Some of the pieces are so refined, it’s hard to believe they began as waste. For many households…

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S11E20 - The Co-op Difference: How Capital Credits Come Back to You 8:41

27d ago8:41

8:41

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson sits down with Board Chair Gabe Schneider to unpack one of the most unique benefits of co-op membership, Capital Credits. Together, they explain what Capital Credits are, how Cherryland decides when and how much to return, and why this year’s $500,000 retirement reflects both stron…

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S11E19 - Board Meeting Brief, October 2025 5:53

1M ago5:53

5:53

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the October 27th Board of Directors meeting.By Cherryland Electric Cooperative

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33. Shifting the Culture of Forestry in Australia with Australian Sustainable Timbers 40:20

1M ago40:20

40:20

In this episode, I’d love you to meet James Felton-Taylor and Annabelle Kater, who run Australian Sustainable Timbers in Dungog NSW. As native forest managers and timber processors, they’re passionate about showing there’s a better way to work with the bush by rethinking timber production. This conversation is a great reminder that when you lead wi…

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Eighty Years Electric: Celebrating Our Co-op Story 18:17

1M ago18:17

18:17

This Co-op Month, we’re celebrating 80 years of powering our community! Join host Taylor, and guest Chellie Phillips, as we look back on the incredible journey of Coweta-Fayette EMC! We dive into the seven cooperative principles that power our purpose, the strong roots that built our foundation, and how we’re lighting the path for the future. We’ll…

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S11E18 - Celebrating Co-op Month: Meet the People Behind Cherryland 5:13

2M ago5:13

5:13

In this special Co-op Month episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle highlights the people who make Cherryland Electric Cooperative unique. Hear from some of Cherryland’s newest team members, including Adam, Brandi, Blake, Jeff, and Michelle as they share what drives their work and why being part of a member-owned cooperative matters. From…

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S11E17 - Board Meeting Brief, September 2025 8:15

2M ago8:15

8:15

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the September 22nd Board of Directors meeting.By Cherryland Electric Cooperative

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32. How a Ripple Sparks the Power of Activism with film producer Michelle Dado-Millynn 33:54

2M ago33:54

33:54

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when I say the word “activist”? It’s a word that can stir up a lot of feelings — but at its heart, it’s simply about standing up for what you believe in…and doing something about it. In this episode, I’d love you to meet Michelle Dado-Millynn, a Dungog-based film producer whose work shines a light on people…

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Keeping Power Reliable Through Right-of-Way Maintenance 13:52

2M ago13:52

13:52

When storms hit, members want one thing most: power restored quickly and safely. Right-of-way (ROW) maintenance is one of the most important — and often unseen — ways DEMCO makes that possible. In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO, host David Latona talks with Sam Rosso, DEMCO’s Manager of Lands & Right of Way, about how clearing veget…

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S11E16 - By the Numbers: What Cherryland’s KRTA Metrics Reveal 31:11

2M ago31:11

31:11

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle sits down with Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and CFO Brad Pavwoski to break down the co-op's Key Ratio Trend Analysis (KRTA) and why it matters to members. From financial health and operational efficiency to system reliability, KRTA metrics give Cherryland a clear picture of how the co-op st…

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31. How a Community Food Co-op Offers Fair Food for All with Anna Crane from Dungog Wholefood Co-op 31:54

2M ago31:54

31:54

A community food co-op in the main street of a small regional town can have a massive impact, not just on the reduced environmental impact of locally grown food, but also the value of having access to healthy food, support for local growers and really strong community connections. I'm having a conversation with Anna Crane from the Dungog Wholefood …

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Capital Credits - A Return of $4 Million to our Members 5:21

2M ago5:21

5:21

Capital Credits - what are they? Let's face it, it's a concept most of us aren't familiar with - a company actually returning money to those they serve. In this episode, we break down how they work, why they matter, and how members benefit when we return millions back to our them, not some far off investors. It’s your money, your co-op, and your st…

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30. Giving Plastic Waste a Second Life Through Recycling with Jess Hodge from Resourceful Living 38:33

3M ago38:33

38:33

Let’s talk about plastic. We see it everywhere, even in places it probably shouldn't be. And while we all want to do the right thing by tossing it in the recycling bin, the truth is, plastic recycling is a lot more complex than it seems. To help untangle that complexity, I’m joined by Jess Hodge co-founder of Resourceful Living. Jess and her team a…

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S11E15 – Breaking Down MEAP: New Charges, New Opportunities for Members 21:23

3M ago21:23

21:23

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle talks with Cherryland’s Sonya Sias and the Salvation Army’s Patty Steele about changes to the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP). Starting in September, members will see a new $1.25 monthly charge on their bills. Learn what this means for Cherryland members, how to apply for assistanc…

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29. What Bees Teach Us About Seasons, Place and Collective Action with Kelly Lees & Anna Scobie from Urban Hum 39:26

3M ago39:26

39:26

In this episode, I’d love you to meet Anna Scobie and Kelly Lees from Newcastle-based business Urban Hum. We’re exploring the role of bees in our local environment and how understanding them connects us with the bigger picture of environmental sustainability. From permaculture principles to planting a tiny forest, and even facing the challenges of …

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28. Everyday Voices: A Young Persons Environmental Journey with Sophie from Lake Macquarie 23:15

3M ago23:15

23:15

"Everyday Voices" is where I take the mic into public spaces, striking up real conversations with everyday people about how they live, care for, and tread lighter on the planet. In this episode I’m talking to Sophie, a high school student who’s showing interest in sustainability and environmental change in government. She shares her early advocacy …

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DEMCO Youth Programs 12:27

3M ago12:27

12:27

From birth through high school, DEMCO is helping shape the future by investing in young people across the communities we serve. In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO, host David Latona sits down with Chanon Martin, DEMCO’s Member and Community Engagement Manager, to talk about the many youth programs that connect families to their co-op…

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27. Escaping Supermarket Sameness Through Local & Organic Food with Brent Fairns from Organic Feast Maitland NSW 40:30

3M ago40:30

40:30

While most shopping centres are filled with cloned chain stores, it’s easy to forget that independent grocery shops are out there doing things differently—helping us live more sustainably, eat more mindfully and feel more connected. In this episode, we sit down with Brent Fairns, owner of Organic Feast in Maitland. More than just a shop, Organic Fe…

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26. Decluttering to Make Space for Simpler Living with Rachel Louise from Raid my Wardrobe 37:48

3M ago37:48

37:48

When you hear the word decluttering, what comes to mind? For me, my brain jumps straight to the opposite….minimalism, with clean lines, empty shelves and limited colour & texture. But actually, decluttering isn’t really about that. It’s about living with less and feeling lighter, thinking clearer and living easier. In this episode, I’d love you to …

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DC Unplugged - 2025 Youth Tour Delegates Tell All! 11:51

4M ago11:51

11:51

What if one week could change the way you see your future? That’s exactly what happened for this year’s Washington Youth Tour delegates Timetria Gibson and Kai'Leia McCarty. In this episode, they share how a week in the nation’s capital (with 1,500 of their closest friends) opened their eyes to new opportunities, sparked leadership skills, and conn…

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25. Leading by Values for a Purposeful Workplace with Bec Bowie 30:10

4M ago30:10

30:10

In this episode, I’d love you to meet Bec Bowie, former owner of the much loved Newcastle cafe, Estabar. We’re talking about how values influence the way we shape both our lifestyles and our work to feel more purposeful. This conversation is a great reminder that when you lead with your values, then everything flows with more meaning — and more imp…

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S11E14 - Board Meeting Brief, July 2025 12:10

4M ago12:10

12:10

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the July 28th Board of Directors meeting.By Cherryland Electric Cooperative

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Hot or Not? How to Tell if a Power Line Is Live & More! 10:55

4M ago10:55

10:55

In this episode of In the Loop, we’re joined by our own Greg Perry and Daniel Cason to talk about the lifesaving steps everyone should know when it comes to power lines. From spotting a live line to staying safe after a storm (and even what to do if you’re in a car accident involving downed lines) this 10-minute conversation is packed with critical…

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Get PowerSmart This Summer 12:28

4M ago12:28

12:28

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO, host David Latona sits down with Ashley Carradine, DEMCO’s Energy Services Coordinator, to talk about easy ways members can reduce their electric use—especially during the hot summer months—without giving up comfort or control. Ashley explains how much energy typical household appliances use and wh…

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24. Connecting Community through Good, Clean & Fair Food with Slow Food Hunter Valley 30:42

5M ago30:42

30:42

Have you heard about the Slow Food Movement? It’s a global movement that believes everyone has the right to good, clean and fair food. Helping us understand the movement from a localised perspective, I'd like to introduce you to Amorelle Dempster from Slow Food Hunter Valley. The volunteer-led grassroots organisation helps connect their community w…

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S11E13 - Behind the Scenes of Energy Policy: What It Means for Cherryland Members 31:27

5M ago31:27

31:27

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle welcomes Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) President and CEO John Kran to discuss the critical role rural electric cooperatives play in energy policy and advocacy. They dive into how Cherryland ensures members have a seat at the table—from loc…

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23. Sustainable Interior Design is Made to Wear In, Not Out with Eco Edition 29:36

5M ago29:36

29:36

Using healthy and sustainable materials in your interior design is an overlooked, yet important element in your daily living. In this episode, I'm chatting with Nadine Samwell from Eco Edition. She helps homeowners with better choices for healthy and sustainable materials for new builds and renovations. And it's all with the aim of making it simple…

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Your Watts Matter! Cool Tips, Hot Savings 18:09

5M ago18:09

18:09

It's Georgia, it's summer and it's hot as blue blazes—but opening your energy bill doesn’t have to leave you in a cold sweat! In this episode, we’re sharing simple, smart tips to help you save energy (and money) all summer long. From thermostat tricks and energy-efficient habits to our YouTube series Watts Matter, we’ve got easy ways to beat the he…

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S11E12 - Board Meeting Brief, June 2025 8:02

5M ago8:02

8:02

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the June 24th Board of Directors meeting.By Cherryland Electric Cooperative

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22. What's Threatening Lake Macquarie's Green Sea Turtles? With Hunter Wildlife Rescue 28:06

6M ago28:06

28:06

Hello, I’m Mardi Lee and Welcome to The ReNewy Living Podcast! Did you know that right here in Lake Macquarie our local sea turtles are at risk. It's not just something that's happening as part of climate change that you see on the Great Barrier Reef but also here. There are at least three reasons why our sea turtles are being impacted so badly. So…

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DEMCO Storm Response 17:26

6M ago17:26

17:26

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO, host David Latona sits down with Mark Phillips, DEMCO’s Chief Engineering and Operations Officer, to discuss the steps to restoring power after a storm. You’ll learn how DEMCO restores power in a specific sequence—starting with transmission lines and substations and working all the way down to indi…

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S11E11 - Celebrating Community: Incredible Mo’s Partnership with Cherryland 15:28

6M ago15:28

15:28

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Communications and Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle sits down with Chris Mohrhardt, owner of Incredible Mo’s, to discuss their 10-year partnership hosting Cherryland’s annual meeting and their inspiring community work. Learn how rural economic development loans helped shape Incredible Mo’s growth and how…

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21. Practical Steps to Decluttering after Loss 29:18

6M ago29:18

29:18

Decluttering your home is tough enough, right? Finding the time, energy, and headspace when you're feeling your best is a challenge on its own. But what happens when the responsibility shifts? When a loved one no longer needs their belongings, and suddenly, it’s up to you to sort through it all? In this episode, I’m chatting with ReNewy Living Comm…

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20. Sustainable Home Renovation Design That Puts People First with On Home Ground 33:50

6M ago33:50

33:50

Hello, I’m Mardi Lee, and welcome to The ReNewy Living Podcast! Renovating your home is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make sustainable short and long-term choices. Is it possible to create your dream design without a massive environmental footprint? That’s exactly what we’re talking about with my guest N…

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DEMCO Storm Prep & Readiness 15:19

6M ago15:19

15:19

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO, host David Latona sits down with Mark Phillips, DEMCO’s Chief Engineering and Operations Officer, to discuss what it really takes to be storm-ready—long before a hurricane is in the forecast. Mark explains how DEMCO prepares year-round to ensure fast, safe response when severe weather strikes. From…

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20 years of Bright Ideas! 20:23

6M ago20:23

20:23

In this episode, we dive into the Bright Ideas Grant Program—a program going 20 years strong at CFEMC! This grant program puts funding directly into local classrooms to bring hands-on, engaging projects to life. We're joined by multi-year grant recipient, Mary Thompson, who shares how the program has transformed her students' learning (as well as s…

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19. Easy Wins for a More Energy Efficient Older Home 27:01

6M ago27:01

27:01

Hello, my name's Mardi Lee and Welcome to The ReNewy Living Podcast! Retrofitting your home for energy efficiency can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s less exciting or visible than other reno upgrades. But when it comes to home comfort and savings, it’s what’s on the inside that counts! The simplest ways to improve your home's efficiency are…

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S11E10 - Board Meeting Brief, May 2025 13:53

6M ago13:53

13:53

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the May 19th Board of Directors meeting.By Cherryland Electric Cooperative

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18. The Community Garden where Veggies meet Biodiversity with The Groundswell Collective 26:41

6M ago26:41

26:41

Hello, I’m Mardi Lee, and welcome to The ReNewy Living Podcast! Ever wondered whether community gardens are there just for veggie growing? In this episode, you’ll hear how one local community garden is evolving from a growing food-only garden to becoming a biodiversity haven. Joining me is Katie Ryan from The Groundswell Collective. Katie’s role at…

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17. From Waste to Wake-up Call: Art that Hits Home with Artist Marina deBris 45:38

7M ago45:38

45:38

Newcastle, like much of Australia’s coastline, is known for its golden sand beaches and beautiful ocean swimming. However, once you’re at the beach, you see pieces of rubbish amongst the grains of sand and seaweed. You can’t unsee the problem that you know threatens wildlife and mars the beauty of your beach. In this episode, I’m speaking with Mari…

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S11E9 - Counting Every Voice: A Deep Dive into Cherryland’s Election Process 33:32

7M ago33:32

33:32

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland’s Courtney Doyle is joined by Matt Fiala from Survey & Ballot Systems (SBS) to take members behind the scenes of Cherryland’s annual board elections. They discuss how partnering with a third-party ensures a secure, unbiased election—from online voting integration through SmartHub to the hands-off pap…

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Powering the Future: What is DERMS and Why Does It Matter? Part 2 13:51

7M ago13:51

13:51

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO, we continue our discussion on DERMS—Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems—and explore how this smart, innovative technology could benefit our co-op and its members. Our guest, Jeff Andry, Chief Strategy & Regulatory Officer, joins host David Latona to explain how DERMS works in partnership…

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Powering the Future: What is DERMS and How Can It Benefit You? Part 1 15:49

7M ago15:49

15:49

Welcome to the first episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO! In this episode, we’re breaking down the basics of DERMS—what it stands for, how it works, and why DEMCO is exploring this smart technology to benefit our members. Our host, David Latona, DEMCO’s Director of Communications and Governmental Affairs, sits down with Jeff Andry, Chief Stra…

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S11E8 - Board Meeting Brief, April 2025 7:24

7M ago7:24

7:24

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the April 21st Board of Directors meeting.By Cherryland Electric Cooperative

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Lineman Tales: Bullfrogs & Storms Don't Happen on Pretty Days 12:37

8M ago12:37

12:37

April is the month we celebrate linemen! With April 14 being Georgia Lineman Appreciation Day and April 18 being National Lineman Appreciation Day, we can't think of any better way to celebrate these brave men and women then talking to two of our own CFEMC Linemen. From the hazards they face to the rewards of the job (as well as a few sneaky bullfr…

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S11E7 - Board Meeting Brief, March 2025 9:42

8M ago9:42

9:42

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the March 31st Board of Directors meeting.By Cherryland Electric Cooperative