Just Power Podcast
Just Power Podcast
Podcast Description
Right now, our energy system is transforming before our eyes and the decisions we make today will shape how we power our world for generations to come. So how do we create a just transition to a clean energy future without leaving anyone behind?I’m Carolyn Parrs, and for the past 20 years, I've been in the trenches of our energy transition working with startups to utilities helping them bring more clean energy to our grid. The time is now to transform our energy systems to create sustainable and equitable energy for all.That is why I created the Just Power Podcast in collaboration with New Mexico State University. Each week, we bring you conversations with energy leaders, policymakers, tribal members, community champions, and more. People who are working hard to so everyone has access to clean, affordable, reliable energy, no matter what their zip code.Subscribe to the Just Power Podcast! Because everyone deserves a seat at the energy table.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast centers on crucial themes like energy equity, community empowerment, and sustainable energy solutions. Episodes tackle specific topics such as Scotland's just transition framework, the intersection of energy justice and indigenous rights, and the business implications of energy equity, exemplified through episodes featuring experts sharing transformative insights and strategies.
Right now, our energy system is transforming before our eyes and the decisions we make today will shape how we power our world for generations to come. So how do we create a clean energy future without leaving anyone behind?
I’m Carolyn Parrs, and for the past 20 years, I’ve been in the trenches of our energy transition working with startups to utilities helping them bring more clean energy to our grid. The time is now to transform our energy systems to create sustainable and accessible energy for all.
That is why I created the Just Power Podcast in collaboration with New Mexico State University. Each week, we bring you conversations with energy leaders, policymakers, tribal members, community champions, and more. People who are working hard to so everyone has access to clean, affordable, reliable energy.
What happens when entire communities built around coal plants suddenly face closure? Host Carolyn Parrs speaks with Heidi Binko, co-founder and CEO of the Just Transition Fund, to explore how communities can navigate the complex shift from fossil fuels to clean energy without leaving anyone behind.
With over 25 years in climate philanthropy, Heidi brings incredible wisdom about what it really takes to support communities through economic transition. We dive deep into the human side of energy transformation – the families losing generational jobs, the towns watching their tax base disappear, and the Indigenous communities facing unique challenges in this new landscape.
Key Topics
• How coal plant closures impact entire communities and what successful economic diversification looks like beyond just clean energy projects.
• The unique challenges facing tribal communities in energy transition and why community-led solutions outperform top-down approaches.
• Why early engagement with communities leads to better outcomes and how utilities can become partners rather than obstacles in the transition process.
• The changing political landscape of climate funding and the essential role of private sector engagement in creating sustainable economic alternatives.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Climate Philanthropy and Heidi Binko
02:55
The Impact of Coal Plant Closures on Communities
05:54
Just Transition Fund's Role in Community Planning
09:04
Engaging Utilities in Transition Processes
12:10
Addressing Personal Loss in Coal Communities
14:55
Successful Examples of Economic Transition
17:55
Diversifying Economies Beyond Clean Energy
20:50
The Importance of Community-Led Solutions
21:49
Finding Common Ground in Diverse Communities
23:15
Measuring Success: Economic Resilience and Sustainability
26:57
Rural vs Urban: Bridging the Divide
28:14
Working with Tribal Communities: Unique Challenges
30:55
Learning from Failures: The Role of Philanthropy
32:29
Navigating Changing Political Landscapes
36:12
Private Sector Engagement in Energy Transition
38:27
The Challenge of Clean Energy Production
42:20
Personal Motivation: The People Behind the Work
About The Just Transition Fund
Website: http://www.justtransitionfund.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/just-transition-fund/
About Just Power Podcast
The Just Power Podcast was created by Carolyn Parrs in partnership with New Mexico State University. It features energy experts, policymakers, tribal voices, and community champions who are working to make clean energy accessible to everyone—no matter where you live or what your income is.
About Carolyn Parrs
Carolyn Parrs is the CEO of Mind Over Markets, a branding and messaging firm that helps sustainable businesses and energy organizations communicate with clarity and power. Learn more at:
Website: https://mindovermarkets.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindovermarkets
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynparrs/
🔔 Never Miss an Update! Subscribe Now
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJustPowerPodcast?sub_co
New Mexico State University Microlearning
Mind Over Markets
LinkedIn
Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.