InPowered Women Podcast

Episode Summary: In this episode of the InPowered Women Podcast, Dana Clare Redden, founder of Solar Stewards, and Sharon discuss solar energy's profound impact, particularly in marginalized communities. Dana recounts founding Solar Stewards in 2016 to align corporate renewable goals with local projects, touching on topics like Renewable Energy Credits, involvement in the Georgia Solar Energy Association, and legislative victories such as House Bill 57. They delve into the current solar energy landscape in Georgia, addressing challenges like rising power rates and the importance of accessibility, especially for marginalized groups. Dana underscores the economic benefits and career opportunities in the clean energy transition, while emphasizing the significance of diversity, inclusion, and mentorship in the industry. Despite obstacles, they express optimism about the future of renewable energy and highlight the role of entrepreneurship. The conversation concludes with Dana sharing her interests outside of work and encouraging listeners to connect with Solar Stewards for further information and resources. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee is an accomplished entrepreneur and marketing expert dedicated to empowering female leaders. With a diverse background in sales and marketing across industries like advertising, magazine publishing, and solar energy, Sharon's journey showcases her versatility and determination. As the principal of Pinnacle Strategic Advisors, she assists businesses in enhancing their marketing strategies. Sharon's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish her own consulting firm, reflecting her commitment to excellence. Alongside her professional pursuits, Sharon co-founded the InPowered Women's networking group, fostering mentorship and support for women in business. Through the InPowered Women Podcast, Sharon will share stories of resilient female leaders with listeners encouraging them to pursue their aspirations fearlessly. Dana Clare Redden Dana Clare Redden is a visionary leader in renewable energy, known for her commitment to sustainability and social equity. Founder of Solar Stewards, she bridges corporate goals with underserved communities, notably in Georgia. Her journey began with a realization of the need for solar projects in overlooked areas, leading to the establishment of Solar Stewards in 2016. Dana advocates for inclusive policies like House Bill 57 and fosters industry growth through initiatives like the Georgia Solar Energy Association. A strong proponent of diversity and mentorship, Dana's leadership inspires positive change in the renewable energy sector, driving towards a brighter, more equitable future. Insights from this episode: Quotes from the show: Resources Mentioned: Georgia Solar Energy AssociationSolar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)Lee PetersonFederal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)Justice 40 Initiative Sharon Lee Email: sharon@pinnaclestrategicadvisors.net LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Dana Clare Redden LinkedIn: Dana Clare Redden LinkedIn: Solar Stewards Website: Solar Stewards Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify, PodBean, and Listen Notes. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry. Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Schantz Home Improvement: www.SchantzHomeImprovement.com for all of your exterior home improvement needs.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the InPowered Women Podcast, sponsored by Superior Water Services, host Sharon Lee speaks with Stephanie Choury from Buckman Digital Water. Stephanie shares her journey from history major to enterprise account manager, breaking barriers in water treatment. We explore her involvement with Women of Water, discuss Cheryl Sandberg's "Lean In", and reflect on pivotal moments of resilience. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee is an accomplished entrepreneur and marketing expert dedicated to empowering female leaders. With a diverse background in sales and marketing across industries like advertising, magazine publishing, and solar energy, Sharon's journey showcases her versatility and determination. As the principal of Pinnacle Strategic Advisors, she assists businesses in enhancing their marketing strategies. Sharon's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish her own consulting firm, reflecting her commitment to excellence. Alongside her professional pursuits, Sharon co-founded the InPowered Women's networking group, fostering mentorship and support for women in business. Through the InPowered Women Podcast, Sharon will share stories of resilient female leaders with listeners encouraging them to pursue their aspirations fearlessly. Stephanie Choury Stephanie Choury is a leader in industrial water treatment, known for innovation and empowering women in male-dominated fields. With 15+ years in water treatment, she advances digital solutions and diversity. Initially a history student, Stephanie transitioned to water treatment, driven by her passion for technology and chemical engineering. Currently an Enterprise Account Manager at Buckman Digital Water, she drives digital innovations, enhancing efficiency and performance. Stephanie actively supports women in water treatment through mentorship and advocacy, promoting diversity and inclusion. Outside work, she enjoys family time and socializing. Stephanie's dedication to excellence and empowering women has made her a trailblazer in the industry. Insights from this episode: Quotes from the show: Resources Mentioned: Buckman Digital WaterLean In by Sheryl SandbergWomen of Water Sharon Lee Email: sharon@pinnaclestrategicadvisors.net LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Stephanie Choury LinkedIn: Stephanie Choury LinkedIn: Buckman Digital Water Website: Buckman Digital Water Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify, PodBean, and Listen Notes. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the InPowered Women podcast, host Sharon Lee interviews Annie Lu, CEO of H2Ok Innovations, a company revolutionizing industrial liquid management. Annie shares her journey growing up in a manufacturing family and co-founding H2Ok Innovations with her brother, driven by a passion for improving the industry. They discuss the company's focus on data-driven decision-making, utilizing IoT technology for real-time insights and efficiency gains. Annie emphasizes the importance of being prepared and building a solid infrastructure to support growth, highlighting the significance of working on the company, not just in it. She also addresses the unique challenges she faces as a female leader in male-dominated industries and underscores the value of authenticity and diversity in entrepreneurship. Annie delves into the power of mentorship and her commitment to supporting other women founders, advocating for collaborative partnerships to drive sustainability. Additionally, she shares her passion for Formula One (Motorsports) and pageants, highlighting the lessons learned in teamwork, authenticity, and branding. Sharon praises H2Ok Innovations' culture of empathy and problem-solving, predicting continued success in driving innovation and sustainability within the manufacturing sector. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee is an accomplished entrepreneur and marketing expert dedicated to empowering female leaders. With a diverse background in sales and marketing across industries like advertising, magazine publishing, and solar energy, Sharon's journey showcases her versatility and determination. As the principal of Pinnacle Strategic Advisors, she assists businesses in enhancing their marketing strategies. Sharon's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish her own consulting firm, reflecting her commitment to excellence. Alongside her professional pursuits, Sharon co-founded the InPowered Women's networking group, fostering mentorship and support for women in business. Through the InPowered Women’s podcast, Sharon will share stories of resilient female leaders with listeners encouraging them to pursue their aspirations fearlessly. Annie Lu Annie Lu, CEO of H20k Innovations, is a visionary entrepreneur and advocate for authenticity, navigating the male-dominated realm of venture capital with determination and empathy. Rising above bias, she champions diversity and empowers others to embrace their uniqueness. Through her leadership at H20k Innovations, Annie fosters a culture of creativity and empowerment. Beyond her business ventures, Annie is a dedicated mentor and philanthropist, supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women and girls. Her passion for sustainability drives her collaborative efforts to address environmental challenges. Insights from this episode: Quotes from the show: Resources Mentioned: H20k InnovationsStrong GirlsThe Girl CampaignGreentown Labs100 Plus Accelerator Sharon Lee Email: sharon@pinnaclestrategicadvisors.net LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Annie Lu Email: annie@h2okinnovations.com LinkedIn: H20k Innovations Website: H20k Innovations Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify, PodBean, and Listen Notes. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of unstoppable female leaders with the InPowered Women's podcast! Hosted by Sharon Lee, principal of Pinnacle Strategic Advisors, this debut episode kicks off with infectious energy and enthusiasm. Sharon shares her own journey through the wild and wonderful realms of sales and marketing, donning various hats from advertising to solar energy systems sales. But her ultimate leap into entrepreneurship with her own marketing consulting firm sets the stage for this thrilling podcast adventure. As Sharon reveals her passion for helping businesses tell their stories effectively, she invites listeners to join her in celebrating the incredible women leading the charge in male-dominated industries. From manufacturing facilities to technology companies, each story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of community. With a sprinkle of fun and a dash of inspiration, the InPowered Women's podcast promises to be a joyous ride through the triumphs and transformations of fearless female trailblazers. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee is an accomplished entrepreneur and marketing expert dedicated to empowering female leaders. With a diverse background in sales and marketing across industries like advertising, magazine publishing, and solar energy, Sharon's journey showcases her versatility and determination. As the principal of Pinnacle Strategic Advisors, she assists businesses in enhancing their marketing strategies. Sharon's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish her own consulting firm, reflecting her commitment to excellence. Alongside her professional pursuits, Sharon co-founded the InPowered Women's networking group, fostering mentorship and support for women in business. Through the InPowered Women’s podcast, Sharon will share stories of resilient female leaders with listeners encouraging them to pursue their aspirations fearlessly. Insights from this episode: Quotes from the show: Sharon Lee Email: sharon@pinnaclestrategicadvisors.net LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify, PodBean, and Listen Notes. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Jamie Barber takes us through her background, how she transitioned from having studied accounting and going into policy to later moving to the electric area within the same company. She also gives insights into her role and how being in solar has helped her. Finally, she discusses the changes in IRP (Integrated Resource Plan) and running her team. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio, as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Jamie Barber Jamie Barber leads the team responsible for making policy recommendations regarding Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (Utility Scale, Distributed Generation, Wind, and Biomass) matters related to Georgia Power Company before the Georgia Public Service Commission. This includes the recent 2,160 megawatts of additional renewable resources that were approved in the 2019 Georgia Power Integrated Resource Plan. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Jamie Barber LinkedIn: Jamie Barber Website: http://www.southface.org Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Michelle Van Enige talks about her experience in the solar industry and the very supportive mentors who took her hand in the journey. While she did not have struggles or any discouragement getting into this field, she recognizes that this is a male-dominated industry and is mentoring people to get into it. Finally, she gives some pointers for people looking to enter it. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio, as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Michelle Van Enige Michelle Van Enige is a Senior Project Engineer at Velo Solar, an Electricity, Oil & Gas company with an estimated 19 employees, founded in 2007. They are part of the Project Management team within the Engineering & Technical Department, and their management level is Non-Manager. Michelle graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2016 and is based in Atlanta, United States. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Resources Mentioned PV magazine Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Michelle Van Enige LinkedIn: Michelle Van Enige, P.E. Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Stephanie Gossman takes us through her journey through solar, working with small businesses to offer solutions, meet them where they are, and how her team has been instrumental in achieving these goals. She also talks about mentorship and why it is important to have mentors. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio, as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Stephanie Gossman Stephanie Gossman is the Electric Transportation Manager at Georgia Power Company, where she leads the department responsible for customer offerings to support the buildout of EV charging infrastructure. Prior to this role, she spent 11 years working in the Power Delivery organization, including real-time operations in the control center, transmission planning, field maintenance, and storm restoration. Prior to her current role, she served as the assistant to the SVP for Power Delivery with Southern Company Services to support and promote goals throughout Southern Company’s electric operating companies and within the industry. She holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from The University of Alabama, an MS from Georgia Tech, an MBA from Southern Polytechnic State University. She is a licensed PE in the state of Georgia. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Stephanie Gossman LinkedIn: Stephanie Gossman Website: Stephanie Gossman Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Lily Valdez takes us through her journey into solar and founding Women United By Solar to help reduce gender inequalities in the solar industry. She also talks about starting her company, Solar Lily, and the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on her business and details about her mentorship program. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio, as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Lily Valdez Lily Valdez has been in the solar and energy efficiency industry for 5 years. It’s her passion to help homeowners transition to clean, renewable energy. With solar, homeowners enjoy a fixed, lower power bill, increase the value of their home and take control back by owning, not renting, their power while contributing to saving our planet. She co-founded Women United By Solar to promote gender equality and diversity in the solar industry. Being in a predominantly male industry, they want to create a safe space for women to have access to training, development, support, and women empowering women. They have a sisterhood and place for women to grow and learn together. WUBS hosts weekly Clubhouses and Zooms and has a Facebook Group, “Women United By Solar,” to catch up, provide value and promote inclusivity by having their clubhouses and zooms open to all genders. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Lily Valdez LinkedIn: Lily Valdez Instagram: Women United By Solar Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Katie Southworth about how she got into solar and landed her first job in solar. She also gives details about Southface, her role as an advocacy director, how they help design systems through consulting, and why it is important to invest in solutions on energy since the costs will continue skyrocketing. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio, as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Katie Southworth Katie Southworth is the Advocacy Program Director at Southface Institute. She is an innovative, results-driven professional with fifteen years of experience in planning, coordinating, and implementing clean energy and environmental policies, programs, and projects. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Katie Southworth LinkedIn: Katie Southworth Southface Website: Southface Membership: Southface Membership Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Kelly Pickerel, the editor-in-chief of Solar Power World, about Kelly’s perspective on how the solar industry has become a more inclusive and diverse place for women and young people. Kelly tells us about how by being editor-in-chief she has always tried to combine her 11-year knowledge of the solar industry and journalism to make the industry a place where everyone can thrive. Kelly also emphasizes how and why the solar industry has become a kind of magnet for women and how she is willing to reinforce that trend. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Kelly Pickerel Kelly Pickerel is the editorial director of renewables at WTWH Media and editor-in-chief of Solar Power World, a WTWH Media solar industry publication. Kelly has been involved with publishing in the solar industry since 2011 when she started as the founding editor of Solar Builder, a trade magazine. She joined the Solar Power World staff in 2014, and her areas of focus include solar panel manufacturing, energy storage, and the development of Solar Power World’s annual Top Solar Contractors list. During Kelly's tenure as editor-in-chief of Solar Power World, the publication has been honored as one of six finalists in the American Society of Business Publication Editors' National Magazine of the Year award. She also is a Trade Association Business Publications International award winner for her reporting on the U.S. solar polysilicon market. Kelly graduated from Kent State University with a degree in magazine journalism and lives in Cleveland, Ohio. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Kelly Pickerel LinkedIn: Kelly Pickerel Twitter: Kelly Pickerel Instagram: Kelly Pickerel Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Alex Snedeker about her recent trip around the world, her background, and what she brought from this trip. Alex talks about her path to renewables and her experience in this field. They delve into solar monitoring and the current trends in solar energy, such as financial monitoring and integration, attending the RE+ Show Event, and how Alex mentors young people in the renewable field. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio, as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Alex Snedeker Alex Snedeker is the Principal of Wattch and she uses big data, behavioral economics, and process optimization to help growth organizations deliver the largest impact for the smallest price. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Guests Mentioned Abby Hopper Kelly Pickerel Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Alex Snedeker LinkedIn: Alex Snedeker Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: Since the recording of this interview, Chandra Farley has accepted the position of Chief Sustainability Officer within the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Resilience, where her team has been tasked with assessing Atlanta’s sustainability plans, goals, and programs including updating the city’s comprehensive climate and energy plan in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable development goals (SDG’s), creating the first comprehensive food systems plan, creating a sustainable procurement strategy, as well as supporting the city to capture, utilize, and leverage federal resources from the American Rescue Plan Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and especially the historic climate legislation – the Inflation Reduction Act. In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Chandra Farley about how climate change has impacted the energy industry and how she has managed it through initiatives such as ReSolve and the Good Energy Project, which additionally involves “equity-centered delivery infrastructure”. Chandra gives us an insight into her life as a full-time cheerleader, as an architect, and then as a clean energy business woman focused on environmental justice. She also shares how being raised by her grandparents taught her to be committed to her community and how she used that as her principal purpose on her projects. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Chandra Farley Chandra Farley serves as the CEO of ReSolve, a consulting practice with a mission to increase the impact of climate justice initiatives by creating an equity-centered delivery infrastructure. Farley also founded the “Good Energy Project '' with a vision to connect the transformational power of Black Women to the movement for just and equitable clean energy. With a career history at Southface Energy Institute and Partnership for Southern Equity, Farley is well-known in energy, utility, and climate justice circles. She has formed national partnerships to improve the environmental and financial sustainability of nonprofit facilities and developed equity-centered strategies to advance energy and climate justice at local, regional, and national scales. Farley is the Co-Chair of the Hive Fund for Climate and Gender Justice Advisory Board, chair of the Georgia NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Committee, a graduate of the EPA’s Environmental Justice Academy, President Emeritus of the Environmental Justice Academy Alumni Association, and serves on the Board of Directors for Community Movement Builders, Georgia Conservation Voters Education Fund, the People’s Justice Council/Alabama Interfaith Power & Light and Greenlink Analytics. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Chandra Farley LinkedIn: Chandra...

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Karla Koeb about the latest advances in the Clean Energy Industry to accomplish two purposes: take what we have so we continue to have it and make energy not a privilege but a right. Karla talks about how she was exposed to the energy industry from a very young age, how she got involved in the clean technology industry, and the projects she currently takes part in. She emphasizes SEIA and The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) which have helped business owners and ordinary people access energy in a more reliable and clean way. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Karla Loeb Karla is a veteran of clean energy policy and business development. As the Chief Policy & Development Officer at Sigora Arcadia, Karla oversees legislative, administrative, and regulatory efforts at the local, state, and national levels, as well as coordinates and manages strategic development partnerships. Karla's clean energy expertise is extensive and diverse. Karla is an industry expert on issues relating to low to moderate (change to hyphens) income (LMI) access to clean energy and has resulted in the creation of LMI solar and energy efficiency policies in Virginia, Louisiana, New York, Mississippi, and Connecticut. Additionally, on a federal level, Karla has worked to extend the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and on a state level has worked with coalitions to establish and preserve net metering and expand third-party financing and ownership policies in more than a dozen states. Karla served as a collaborator and contributor in the publication of the CESA & DOE Sun Shot's study "Bringing the benefits of Solar to Low Income Customers- A guide for States & Municipalities”, as well as the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's "Energy Efficiency Financing for Low- and Moderate-Income Households" in which she presented the case for leveraging solar to increase deployment of energy efficiency specifically for low-to-moderate income households. Karla is a member of the Vote Solar Low-Income Solar Policy group and a former adviser to the Department of Energy's Clean Energy for Low Income Communities Accelerator (CELICA) group and the Obama administration's Clean Power Plan. She has presented on low-income solar access at NARUC, Innovations in Clean Energy Finance IV: Market Successes and Lessons for Lower Income, as well as ACORE and SEIA-affiliated conferences. Karla’s clean energy experience also includes substantial utility-scale wind and solar energy development including the development and construction of 1400+ MW of wind energy projects. During that time, Karla served as co-chair of the Central Texas WOWE chapter, now WRISE, from 2007-2012. Additionally, Karla helped to find both the New Orleans and Charlottesville WRISE chapters. Karla previously served on the...

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Brooke Haman about the latest innovations in renewable energy and how Georgia Power has incorporated them. Brooke tells us how the solar industry has gone through a multidimensional change that has affected not only the ways in which energy is produced but also the consumers' desires and needs. Additionally, she deepens on her work values and the importance of mentorship and inclusion for her, and how she has incorporated them into programs at Georgia Power. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Brooke Haman Brooke is in charge of the managing strategy, design, and implementation of renewable energy procurement and self-build programs in Georgia Power. Throughout her trajectory, she has worked with companies like the Southern Company system teams and industry stakeholders like an External Affairs Project Manager to investigate and include emerging technologies as part of Georgia Power's generation fleet and/or customer offerings. Brooke has worked on Georgia Power for over 10 years as Renewable Energy Principal, Renewable Development Lead, Green and Renewable Energy Project Manager, Metro Sales, and Energy Efficiency Project Manager. She is currently the Renewable Customer Projects Supervisor. Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Brooke Haman LinkedIn: Brooke Haman Georgia Power: https://www.georgiapower.com/ Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Amanda Bybee about how her profound desire to generate an impact in the world in her early 20s led her to work with solar energy. Amanda tells us a little bit about her background and her professional trajectory that landed in the solar industry. In this way, she talks about O&M, what is the focus of the company, the business strategies, and in general how she has developed herself as a professional with ONM before and after the pandemic as a woman. Sharon Lee Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest-grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice-chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11, and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Amanda Bybee Ms. Bybee has worked in the solar industry since 2003. Her entrée was promoting renewable energy policy in Austin, TX at Public Citizen, where she served as the coordinator of the Solar Austin Campaign. The campaign worked closely with Austin Energy to establish the first solar rebate program in Texas in 2004. Ms. Bybee then went on to work at Meridian Energy Systems, a solar EPC company. Ms. Bybee joined Namasté Solar in January 2006 as an early member of the team. She held numerous roles over her 11 years there, from technical sales & design to business development. While there, she worked to obtain a federal charter for a unique financial institution that funds clean energy products and services: Clean Energy Credit Union (www.cleanenergycu.org). This was only the 17th federal charter issued since 2010 and the first in the state of Colorado for over 30 years. She continues to serve as a volunteer on the Supervisory Committee of the credit union. In 2016, she helped earn an award from the U.S. Department of Energy SunShot Initiative to found the Amicus O&M Cooperative (www.AmicusOM.com). The O&M Cooperative brings together a network of providers across the country to provide coordinated services for geographically distributed portfolios. She now serves as its CEO, and is committed to the mission "to ensure that solar PV fulfills its promise as a responsible and reliable energy source, for generations to come." She obtained a BA in English and French from the University of Texas at Austin, and through solar, has found her "inner engineer." Insights from this Episode Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Amanda Bybee LinkedIn: Amanda Bybee Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Mary-Hayden Britton, a very talented woman who landed in the solar industry by accident but has remained strong and influential 8 years later. Here we talk about a little bit of who Mary-Hayden Britton is, not only as a worker in the solar industry, but as a mom and woman, what role she has in Velo Solar and how she is constantly trying to evolve by helping other women maximize their positions and careers in the solar industry, which is traditionally dominated by males. Sharon Lee: Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11 and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields, unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Mary-Hayden Britton: Mary-Hayden Britton has a Bachelor in Science from Elon University and a Masters in Human Resources from Cornell University. She is currently the Director of Operations of Velo Solar, but in past years she has worked as the Director of Service of Hannah Solar LLC, and the Sales Administrator of SolarMax. She participates in different important groups of the solar energy field such as TenneSEIA (Tennessee Solar Energy Industries Association) and the Solar Energy Group. She is a great believer in mentoring and networking, which is why she always tries to give more light to women and help them rise in the solar industry. Insights from this Episode: Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Mary-Hayden Britton LinkedIn: Mary-Hayden Britton Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee talks with Abigail Ross Hopper, a woman who was a lawyer trying to figure out how to be a professional and a mom, and who landed in the solar industry by accident. Here we talk about a little bit of who Abigail Hopper is, how she has worked hard to create spaces for women and people of color for them to find their voice not only in the solar industry, but also in the professional environment. Abby tells us how she has built her way up in the solar industry, what are some of the latest updates of the solar industry towards cybersecurity in terms of policies and strategies. Sharon Lee: Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11 and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields, unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Abigail Hopper: Abigail Ross Hopper is the President and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association, the national trade organization for America's solar energy industries. She oversees all of SEIA's activities, including government affairs, research, communications, and industry leadership, and is focused on creating a marketplace where solar will constitute a significant percentage of America’s energy generation. Before joining SEIA, Abby was the Director of the Department of Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, where she led the agency that oversaw the leasing and development of all offshore energy, from oil and natural gas to offshore wind. Abby graduated Cum Laude from the University of Maryland School of Law and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Dartmouth College. She is the very proud mom of three children and loves to read, ride her Peloton, do hot yoga and lie on the beach in her (not so free) time. Insights from this Episode: Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Abigail Hopper LinkedIn:Abby Hopper Twitter: Abby Hopper Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Sharon Lee tells us about The Sunnyside Podcast, what it is going to be about and what to expect from it. Basically, the purpose of this podcast is making solar energy relatable, accessible and attainable through the stories of different women who are solar industry titans, which is a male-dominated space. Sharon Lee: Sharon Lee taps over a decade of solar sales experience, having led the creation of a solar division for a leading manufacturing/construction firm, resulting in over 17 MW of solar in its portfolio as well as solar ultimately becoming its highest grossing revenue vertical. Lee has been involved in the GA Solar Energy Association, serving on the board of directors as the marketing chair, organizing the annual conference, as well as vice chair, and ultimately the first female chair of the organization in 2015. She is also a charter member of the Professional Women in Building chapter of the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association, a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and Women in Solar Energy (WISE). Lee earned her B.S. degree in communications with double minors in marketing and psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, after spending three years at the University of Tennessee in the pre-health curriculum. Lee is the mom of two boys, ages 14 and 11 and a rabid college football fan. She and her husband, John, spend most of their free time at the baseball or football fields, unless they can steal away for a quick round of golf. Insights from this Episode: Quotes from the Show: Stay Connected: Sharon Lee LinkedIn: Sharon Lee Facebook: Sharon Lee Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Spotify. This episode was produced and managed by Podcast Laundry.