Spark’n Conversations

Industry experts sit with Master Electrician, and Electrical Association Director of Education, Mike Miller about trends and challenges facing contractors, talking shop, and everything needed to keep electricians in-the-know.

Episode 44 -Leadership, Training & Market Shifts w/ Kevin, Westbrock, Rouzer Group

In this episode, Mike sits down with Rouzer Group Account Manager Kevin Westbrock to talk about the biggest challenges facing businesses today, how companies are preparing for future global disruptions, what sets their trusted training programs apart, and where the wholesale industry is headed.   After listening to the episode you can visit their website to see how the Rouzer Group can help your business:  https://www.rouzer.com/ 

07-10
30:25

Episode 43 - How Certifications Create Government Contracting Opportunities w/ Jeff Anderson, ATEK Distribution LLC

Have you ever thought about getting into government work but not sure where to start? Our host, Mike Miller, sits down with Jeff Anderson to explain how certifications can be leveraged in public contracting, especially through partnerships, and offer guidance for those new to government project work.   To learn more about what ATEK Distribution does, you can visit their website:  https://atekdistribution.com/  

06-09
31:29

Episode 42 - I9 and Employee Handbook Changes w/ Kate Bischoff, k8bisch LLC

Kate’s back! She and Mike talk through some handbook updates, take another look at the I-9 form, and see what’s changed in HR since her last time on.

05-21
33:13

Episode 41 - Vehicle Inspections & Regulations w/ Jacob Letourneau, MN State Patrol

On this podcast, host Mike Miller is joined by Sergeant Jacob Letourneau of the Minnesota State Patrol for an in-depth look at the regulations that support roadway safety. They examine statutes concerning insurance coverage, licensing requirements, logbook protocols, mandatory medical physicals, proper load securement, and additional key safety considerations.

04-28
44:40

Episode 40 - Economic Update w/ Ron Wirtz, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

To help us understand where the economy is headed, Regional Outreach Director Ron Wirtz sits down with Mike to share the latest updates.    For more information you can go to Ron's website:  https://www.minneapolisfed.org/people/ron-wirtz 

03-13
34:52

Episode 39 - Succession Planning w/ Richard Jahnke, Sunbelt Business Advisors

Have you ever thought about buying or selling a business but felt unsure about where to start? Understanding the process can be complex, but we’ve got you covered. In our latest episode, Richard sits down with Mike to break down the steps, share valuable insights, and answer the most common questions about navigating a business sale or purchase.   After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Sunbelt Business Solutions website for more information:  https://www.sunbeltmidwest.com/

02-20
32:48

Episode 38 - Stories from the Electrical Field w/ Jay Lewis

The Chair of the Electrical Association's Membership Committee, who is set to become the Chair of the Board of Directors, and owner of Lewis Electrical Contracting and Consulting Services Inc. , Jay Lewis, joins Mike to discuss his journey and lessons learned from his years in the electrical trade.    You can find Jay's contact information on his company website:  https://lewiselectricalmn.com/about-us/    Don’t miss your chance to advance your skills—visit our website now to register for one of our upcoming code classes and secure your spot today:  https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Online/Education/Continuing_Education_Landing_Page.aspx?hkey=fa23b0ac-5ed9-4b43-8b58-d93cac1f1a2b 

01-24
29:50

Episode 26 - Buying or Selling A Business w/Richard Jahnke, Business Broker

Have you considered buying or selling a business? Do you need help in figuring out how the process works? Richard sits down with Mike in our latest episode to help answer your questions when it comes to buying or selling a business.    After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Sunbelt Business Solutions website for more information:  https://www.sunbeltmidwest.com/  

01-25
08:21

Episode 36 - Earned Sick and Safe Time Mandates w/ Martin Kappenman, Peters & Kappenman

Attorney Martin Kappenman at Peters & Kappenman sits down with Mike to give him an update on the Earned Sick and Safe Time mandates that went into effect earlier this year.    To get in touch with Martin you can go to his website:  https://www.pklaborlaw.com/   Don’t miss your chance to advance your skills—visit our website now to register for one of our upcoming code classes and secure your spot today:  https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Online/Education/Continuing_Education_Landing_Page.aspx?hkey=fa23b0ac-5ed9-4b43-8b58-d93cac1f1a2b 

11-25
32:36

Episode 35 - Association Membership Benefits w/ Michelle Dreier, Electrical Association

Our very own Michelle Dreier, Director of Member Engagement & Government Affairs, sits down with Mike to talk about all the amazing benefits that the Electrical Association has to offer to our members.    You can learn more about the Electrical Association's membership benefits on our website:  https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Online/Membership/Member_Benefits_Tab.aspx?hkey=60938c16-be05-4d10-872f-7796edac71b4 

10-16
21:45

Episode 34 - Association Healthcare Plan Update w/ Cody Larsen, North Risk Partners

On this episode, Mike Miller talks with Cody Larsen, Program Manager for Employee Benefits at North Risk Partners, about the Association Healthcare Plan, Health Spark, and the 2025 changes to the plan.   You can find more information about Health Spark on our website: https://www.electricalassociation.com/Online/Membership/Health_Plan.aspx   If you are interested in receiving a quote from North Risk, please contact Eveline Meidt at eveline.meidt@northriskpartners.com. 

09-06
20:19

Episode 33 - 2026 NEC Code Changes - Public Input w/ Dean Hunter, MN Dept of Labor and Industry

Tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring Dean Hunter and Mike Miller as they discuss the significant changes coming to the 2026 NEC and how you can still influence its outcome. Do not miss this timely and informative presentation!   August 28th, 2024 is the final day the NEC will accept public comment on the proposals to change the NEC for the 2026 Cycle.   Click the link to submit your input:  https://www.nfpa.org/en/For-Professionals/Codes-and-Standards/Standards-Development/Step-1-Input-Stage 

08-06
42:08

Episode 32 - Residential Energy Efficiency w/ Nik Allen, Northeast Coordinator for Clean Energy Resource Teams

Clean Energy Resource Teams is an organization that is helping individuals, businesses, and communities all over the state of Minnesota with their clean energy projects.    Nik joins Mike on this episode to discuss clean energy, what CERT can do to assist in projects, and so much more!    After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Clean Energy Resource Teams website to learn more:  https://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/ 

07-22
12:27

Episode 31 - Solar Energy w/ Logan O'Grady, MnSEIA

With increasing awareness of environmental issues, solar energy is gaining prominence as a vital part of the energy conversation. The Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association (MnSEIA) is committed to advocating and supporting the growth of solar and energy sectors in Minnesota.    Logan appears on the podcast with Mike to highlight the crucial role of solar energy and MnSEIA's initiatives in providing Minnesotans with a safe, renewable energy source.    After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the MnSEIA website to learn more:  https://www.mnseia.org/

06-11
28:38

Episode 30 - unCommon Construction w/ Spencer Grant

unCommon Construction is a nonprofit organization that provides students with opportunities to build houses together, enhancing their technical, professional, and personal skill sets. In this episode, Minneapolis Site Director Spence Grant joins Mike to discuss the program’s purpose, eligibility requirements, and additional details   After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the unCommon Construction website to learn more:  https://uncommonconstruction.org/ 

05-22
27:15

Episode 29 - Answering 2023 Code Questions w/ Dean Hunter, MN Dept of Labor and Industry

Dean Hunter, the Chief Electrical Inspector with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, is making a return appearance on our podcast to tackle questions about the 2023 electrical code.

04-22
48:44

Episode 28 - Insurance 101 w/ Jordy Christian, Federated Insurance

The Electrical Association and Federated Insurance have been partnering for over 60 years. In our latest podcast, Mike sits down with Regional Marketing Manager, Jordy Christian, to discuss everything you need to know about insurance.     After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Federated Insurance website:  https://www.federatedinsurance.com/

03-13
40:22

Episode 27 -Medium Voltage Changes w/ Chris Yelle, ElectroTech

Join Mike and Chris in this episode as they unpack the 2023 electrical code amendments, with a spotlight on alterations to medium voltage regulations. Get insights into the extended rules and a comprehensive discussion on how these changes will shape the landscape of the electrical industry.   After listening to the podcast you can go directly to ElectroTech's website:  https://www.electrotech-inc.com/

02-22
23:25

Episode 25 - Lake Street Works w/ Jess Coykendall, Program Director

The Electrical Association has collaborated with Lake Street Works well before the creation of their workforce development program. Jess and Mike sit down for a discussion, delving into what the program is, the students, and so much more!    After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Lake Street Works website to learn more:  https://www.lakestreetworks.org/

12-15
28:11

Episode 24 - Goodwill-Easter Seals w/ Kristen Hoyles, Workforce Development Manager

Goodwill-Easter Seals is a workforce partner of the Electrical Association. Mike sits down with Kristen to learn about the organization, the YouthBuild program, and more!    After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Goodwill-Easter Seals YouthBuild website to learn more:  https://www.goodwilleasterseals.org/services/youthyoung-adult-services/youthbuild 

11-17
20:49

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