Best Alaska Power Association Podcasts (2024)

1
Inclusive Adventures: Building Belonging Through Adaptive Recreation — Episode 157 38:15

12h ago38:15

38:15

As we continue to celebrate Park and Recreation Month, we’re excited to highlight a story that truly embodies our theme of “Where You Belong.” Today’s episode is all about ensuring opportunities to recreate and spend time in nature are available to all, regardless of ability. And, it’s perfect timing because July is also Disability Pride Month! We …

1
All About Electric Utility Rates 27:12

6d ago27:12

27:12

Electric utility rates fluctuate, which is often confusing. Sarah Lambe, CFO at Homer Electric Association, discusses the process of creating electric utility rates, the factors that change rates and how rates affect the entire electric system.By Alaska Power Association

1
Fostering Belonging Through Community Theater — Episode 156 32:03

4d ago32:03

32:03

Happy Park and Recreation Month! On today’s episode, we’re excited to bring you a story that truly embodies this year’s theme of “Where You Belong.” Each year, the NRPA team hosts a cover contest to find a cover photo and story for the July issue of Parks & Recreation magazine that supports the year’s theme, and this year’s winner is a gem. Today w…

1
Celebrating Pride: The Power of Partnership and Allyship — Episode 155 1:02:04

1M ago1:02:04

1:02:04

Happy Pride Month! On today’s episode we’re discussing an important partnership in Nevada that provides safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to recreate outdoors, build a relationship with nature and build a sense of belonging. We learned about this partnership when Mihaela Genova, Volunteer Program Manager for Get Outdoors Nevada, submitted a phot…

1
Providing Electricity Through Hydropower in Remote Alaska 25:35

1M ago25:35

25:35

INN Electric Cooperative provides safe and reliable hydropower to three remote Alaskan villages; however, delivering the electricity to the meters comes with unique challenges since its grid isn’t connected to a larger transmission system. How does the small co-op deal with harsh winters, remote living, and the high cost of electricity production? …

1
Power Safety For Lineworkers and the Public 25:43

2M ago25:43

25:43

Safety is a top priority in the electric industry. That’s why Frank Adams, safety manager for Matanuska Electric Association, continually reviews policy procedures, accesses risks and ensures MEA is meeting compliance standards. But power safety is not only about lineworkers. The general public also needs to know how to respond to the dangers of el…

1
Building Belonging: Neurodivergent Perspectives in Parks and Recreation (Part 2) — Episode 154 59:14

3M ago59:14

59:14

As you may recall, our final episode of 2023 was part one of our conversation around neurodiversity and parks and recreation. It was a wonderful conversation with Kande Jones, the Development Director for Mulvane Recreation Commission, and Dave McDaniel, the Operations Coordinator for City of Mobile Parks and Recreation about their experience as ne…

1
Understanding the Challenges of Variable Energy with Dustin Highers 33:31

3M ago33:31

33:31

With rising pressures to diversify generation and deploy renewable energy sources, balancing the grid and integrating new technologies has proved challenging. Some resources are dispatchable, while others aren’t. The cost to consumers must also be taken into consideration. Dustin Highers, vice president of corporate programs at Chugach Electric Ass…

1
Creating a World Where Humanity Stands Out — Episode 153 43:28

4M ago43:28

43:28

On today’s episode, we’re talking with someone who has been making a big impact in the larger outdoor industry for a while now. Teresa Baker, founder of In Solidarity Project, is an outdoor enthusiast focusing on community engagement, creating events that encourage people to venture outdoors responsibly, and learning about our open spaces and what …

1
Creating Space for Belonging in Juneau, Alaska — Episode 152 53:30

5M ago53:30

53:30

March is Women’s History Month, and this year’s theme celebrates women who advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion. This year we are honoring women who lead change in their field, and today’s episode does just that. There are so many women who are leaders in parks and recreation and bringing positive change to their communities, and today we’r…

1
Nuyakuk River Hydroelectric Project: Pursuing New Energy in Bristol Bay 31:21

5M ago31:21

31:21

Will Chaney, CEO and General Manager of Nushagak Cooperative, talks about the Nuyakuk River Hydroelectric Project, a proposed run of a river hydroelectric facility that will generate up to 12 MWs of electricity in an area long dependent on diesel fuel for power. As part of the project, electricity and optical fiber would be provided to the communit…

1
Having Fun and Doing the Right Thing in San Antonio — Episode 151 44:51

6M ago44:51

44:51

We know the importance of partnerships in parks and recreation, and on today’s episode of Open Space Radio, we’re diving into an exciting partnership between NRPA and Bobcat. As part of this partnership, Bobcat has extended five grants, each worth $50,000, to support five park improvement projects across the country. Today, we’re excited to learn m…

1
Make an Impact by Leading with a Mentoring Mindset — Episode 150 1:08:29

6M ago1:08:29

1:08:29

As you may know, January is National Mentoring Month, and all month long, NRPA has been sharing content around how mentoring through parks and recreation is helping youth develop positive connections with trusted and caring adults, which we know can support their long-term success. National Mentoring Month is an annual opportunity to spread awarene…

1
Imposter Syndrome Is Real — Episode 149 47:12

7M ago47:12

47:12

Season two of Open Space Radio begins today! For the next year, we will focus on conversations around the 2024 NRPA annual theme, “Where You Belong,” and we’re so excited to kick off this season with a wonderful conversation. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Gabby Vera, CPRP, the regional park superintendent for Maricopa County (Arizona) Parks a…

1
Overview of the Alaska Energy Authority 33:03

7M ago33:03

33:03

The Alaska Energy Authority’s mission is to “reduce the cost of energy in Alaska.” Executive Director Curtis Thayer tells us how the energy office diversifies and maintains power sources in both urban and rural communities. The office has also received $206.5 million grant to update transmission lines, purchase batteries, and provide much needed re…

1
The Power Cost Equalization Program 29:49

7M ago29:49

29:49

Terri Harper, CFO at INN Electric Cooperative, discusses the ins and outs of the Power Cost Equalization Program. PCE has been making electricity affordable for rural Alaskans for decades. However, the reporting can seem overwhelming at times. Why is the program so important, and how can cooperatives streamline their reporting efforts?…

1
Learning from Iceland’s Successes in Its Energy Transition 35:48

8M ago35:48

35:48

The similarities between Iceland’s and Alaska’s power grids are striking. What can Alaska learn from Iceland’s successful energy transition to renewables? Gwen Holdmann, associate vice chancellor for research at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, shares her thoughts and reminds our listeners to look at not just the end results, but also the journe…

1
Building Belonging: Neurodivergent Perspectives in Parks and Recreation (Part I) — Episode 148 1:14:06

8M ago1:14:06

1:14:06

Back in October at the 2023 NRPA Annual Conference, there was a session that really piqued our interest – so much so, that we wanted to turn it into a two-part podcast episode, with today’s episode being part one (and part two coming in Spring 2024!). The session, “Neurodiversity and Inclusive Workplaces: Insights from Park and Recreation Professio…

1
We’re Stronger Together — Episode 147 43:47

8M ago43:47

43:47

It is our next to last episode of 2023, and we’re so thrilled to chat with our guest today, as she is someone who we’ve been hoping to get on the podcast for a while, someone who is a true leader in the profession, and someone who a lot of our listeners may know. Dr. Tiffany Johnson — or Dr. J., as she’s known in many circles — is not only one of t…

1
Arctic Energy Office and Alaska's Regional Energy Goals 28:30

9M ago28:30

28:30

In this episode, Director Erin Whitney provides an overview of the Arctic Energy Office and informs our listeners about the new Arctic Energy Ambassador program. The ambassadors will focus on Alaska's regional priorities and help move those priorities to fruition through the DOE. Only twelve ambassadors will be selected. Deadline to apply is Novemb…

1
What’s the connection? Jonathan Strickland reflects on a season full of Restless Ones. 11:34

9M ago11:34

11:34

With the end of another great season of The Restless Ones, Jonathan looks back on some of the guests and conversations we’ve heard from. With some truly inspiring leaders, driving change at the intersection of technology and business, he reflects on the common themes throughout these discussions and the consistent thread that connects them all - co…

1
Entering the Next Era of Open Space Radio — Episode 146 1:09:30

9M ago1:09:30

1:09:30

I’m really excited for today’s episode because I am joined by my colleagues and new co-hosts, Christina High, NRPA’s marketing specialist, and Cara Myers, NRPA’s marketing and engagement manager. I’m really looking forward to this new era of Open Space Radio, and as many of you know, it’s been a while since I’ve had co-hosts. So, we thought it woul…

1
“Life Out Here”: Building a Stronger Community Through Network Connectivity: Rob Mills, EVP, Chief Technology, Digital Commerce, and Strategy Officer, Tractor Supply Company 24:23

9M ago24:23

24:23

The local convenience store - the cornerstone of rural America, once a one-stop shop for everything from farming and pet supplies to household goods and homemade apple pies. Fast forward to today where those same stores are providing network connectivity, technology infrastructure, and operating efficiency to bustling farming communities. With inte…

1
Preparing the Next Generation of Diverse Leaders in Parks and Recreation — Episode 145 41:54

9M ago41:54

41:54

Earlier this month I joined nearly 9,000 other people who are passionate about parks and recreation in Dallas at the 2023 NRPA Annual Conference. It was a week full of inspiration, networking and fun — and for me, a chance to celebrate not only all the good work happening in local parks and recreation, but also see the culmination of my NRPA collea…

1
Laying an Innovative Foundation for Fresh Tracks and Unprecedented Experiences: Tim April, EVP and CIO, Vail Resorts 30:44

10M ago30:44

30:44

Many people visit resorts to relax and take a break from their daily routines. However, for resort managers, disconnecting from technology is not an option if they want to provide a great guest experience. To ensure guest satisfaction, including catering to their preferences, reducing wait times, and improving services, resorts need to have a const…

1
How to Protect What We Love (People and the Planet) — Episode 144 43:17

10M ago43:17

43:17

How to Protect What We Love (People and the Planet) — Episode 144 It’s another exciting day here on Open Space Radio because I get to introduce you to our other new co-host on the show! If you follow NRPA on social media, you likely already know Christina High. Christina is NRPA’s marketing coordinator and is the brilliant person behind all the fun…

1
The Evolution of Technology: From Today’s Impact to Tomorrow’s Innovations: A Conversation with Phillipa Leighton-Jones, Senior Vice President of The Trust with the Wall Street Journal, and Matt Griffin ... 38:51

10M ago38:51

38:51

The word “innovation” usually evokes new ways of thinking, acting, and accelerating what’s possible, but none of that means much if it doesn’t deliver meaningful results. So, when it comes to gauging innovation’s impact, Phillipa Leighton Jones and Matt Griffin are particularly well attuned. In this special episode recorded live from Mobile World C…

1
The Education and Work of a Lineman 31:04

10M ago31:04

31:04

Joe Waggoner, of Golden Valley Electric Association, has been a journeyman lineman for 16 years. He discusses the education and training requirements for the job and gives our listeners a peek into the daily and exciting life of Alaska’s linemen.By Alaska Power Association

1
Paving the Way for Girls and Women in Sports with DiDi Haračić — Episode 143 29:52

10M ago29:52

29:52

I am very excited for today’s episode for a couple of reasons. First, if you’ve been listening to the show for a while, you know I haven’t always been a solo host. Well, we have some exciting things happening and I’m very pleased to announce that one of my future co-hosts is making her debut on the podcast today. Cara Myers is NRPA’s marketing and …

1
How Integrated Technologies and a Startup Mentality are Delivering on the Promise of Omnichannel Retail: A Conversation with Seemantini Godbole 27:17

11M ago27:17

27:17

A world where customers can buy everything they want, whenever and wherever they want isn’t 100% there—but it’s pretty close. And perhaps no company has been up for that challenge as much as Lowe’s. In this episode of The Restless Ones, I had the chance to sit down with Seemantini Godbole, EVP and CIO of Lowe’s Companies, Inc., whose early start as…

1
A Listen Back at 2023 So Far — Episode 142 30:50

11M ago30:50

30:50

I was recently pulling some of the Open Space Radio statistics for a presentation to NRPA staff, and while I was presenting, I kept thinking to myself, “The numbers are great, it’s important to track these kinds of metrics. But also, we have had some truly remarkable guests and amazing conversations over the course of this show, and you can’t reall…

1
Empowering the Visionaries in Science: A Conversation with Mike Wondrasch, Executive Vice President and CIO, Avantor Sciences 25:28

11M ago25:28

25:28

Building blocks are a critical part of almost any private or corporate mission to reach success and scale. They let executives quickly assemble a foundation for the rest of their plans to be built on – but how are the actual building blocks getting built? Enter Avantor, who is using advancements in connectivity, data, and computing power to “set sc…

1
Displacing Diesel and Utilizing Wind and Solar Energy in the Arctic Circle 31:15

11M ago31:15

31:15

Relying on diesel energy is costly, logistically difficult, and unsustainable in the Arctic Circle. Tom Atkinson, general manager and CEO of Kotzebue Electric Association, discusses how Kotzebue is utilizing renewable energy sources to power its isolated and remote service area.By Alaska Power Association

1
How Las Vegas Is Leading the Way in Technology and Recreation — Episode 141 52:37

11M ago52:37

52:37

On today’s episode of Open Space Radio, we are diving into the dynamic world where recreation and technology intersect. The Las Vegas Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs department has always been at the forefront of innovative ideas, and today's episode is all about one of their latest projects — the Becker Technology Center and Recreation Par…

1
How Climate Change is Driving Innovation in Emergency Management: Sonia Kastner, Founder and CEO, Pano AI 30:46

12M ago30:46

30:46

As the impacts of climate change continue to escalate, public and private sector organizations find themselves in urgent need of innovation. Emergency management has been grappling with outdated tools and insufficient tech investment for decades. Companies such as Pano AI are stepping up to mitigate and better prepare for further crises with a new …

1
Advancing Resilient Park Access in Lynnwood, Washington — Episode 140 31:08

12M ago31:08

31:08

I recently had the opportunity to travel to Lynnwood, Washington, with a few of my colleagues to visit the Lynnwood Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department, who was recently awarded one of NRPA’s Resilient Park Access grants. Our trip consisted of visiting local parks, meeting with members of the community who are collaborating with the depa…

1
Delivering Last-Mile Innovation – How Clevon is Making Logistics Safer, Simpler, and More Sustainable: A Conversation with Sander Sebastian Agur 21:59

12M ago21:59

21:59

Autonomous vehicles open up a world of possibilities. From supporting more efficient roadways and improving delivery reach to mitigate labor shortages and fostering a cleaner environment, there are many use cases. So where do companies focus their efforts to make an impact? For one company, they decided to tackle one of the most challenging use cas…

1
Maintaining Safe and Reliable Power Lines 29:48

1y ago29:48

29:48

Manny Lopez, Land Services Manager, discusses how Matanuska Electric Association works hard to keep power lines safe and reliable year after year. Issues surrounding rights of way can be complex, but tree trimming and maintenance is vital for dependable electricity.By Alaska Power Association

1
Gatekeepers of the Network: Educating Users to Enable Safer Innovation: Mike Anderson, Chief Digital and Information Officer, Netskope 28:02

1y ago28:02

28:02

For decades securing a corporate network was as simple as securing your home office. Global workforces, outside partners, and widespread mobile access have changed that challenge into a seemingly endless set of attack surfaces for CIOs to battle.  Whether it’s a website, SAAS app, or a program running in a corporate data center, 5G is moving that t…

1
Where Community Grows in Columbus, Ohio — Episode 139 36:17

1y ago36:17

36:17

It is officially Park and Recreation Month, and it already has been so exciting to see how park and recreation agencies and communities across the country have been celebrating. We’re not even halfway through the month and we have already seen so many amazing stories highlighting how parks and recreation truly is “Where Community Grows.” On today’s…

1
The Power of Public-Private Partnerships in Shaping Education: Dr. Amy Novak, President, St. Ambrose University & Dr. Kiesha King, Senior National Education Administrator, T-Mobile for Education 28:54

1y ago28:54

28:54

Education has a dual challenge of not only keeping up with the scores of information and knowledge developed every day, it must also keep up with the changing ways we learn and consume content. Education is also too valuable of a tool to be isolated to the financially or geographically fortunate. Connected technologies, paired with 5G, are helping …

1
Spearheading More Productive Healthcare through People-Centric Process and Technology: Peter Fleischut, M.D.; Group Senior Vice President and Chief Information and Transformation Officer, NewYork-Presbyterian ... 25:43

1y ago25:43

25:43

In the medical field, the ability to transfer and interpret data in real time can be the difference between life and death. That data needs to be of high quality, moved at a high speed, and handled with the highest safeguards possible to ensure patients and their providers can receive and provide the most effective care. Building the processes that…

1
Where Community Grows in Glenwood Springs, Colorado — July Bonus Episode 35:00

1y ago35:00

35:00

It may still be June, but it is officially Park and Recreation Month in our hearts, as the July issue of Parks & Recreation magazine was released today. As you may know, each year NRPA hosts a cover contest leading up to July, with the winner being featured on the July issue of the magazine. If you’ve seen this month’s cover (also pictured on this …

1
Celebrating Pride Month in Parks and Recreation — Episode 138 24:57

1y ago24:57

24:57

It is officially Pride Month – a time to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. And while we are thrilled to celebrate Pride Month this year, the reality is that our LGBTQ+ friends, family, colleagues and community members have been under attack. In fact, just last week, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ advocacy group, decl…

1
Revolutionizing the Trucking Industry—A Connected Journey of Innovation: Danny Lilley, CTO, Werner Enterprises 23:06

1y ago23:06

23:06

Logistics are a critical component to the success of any business, and transportation companies invest heavily in mastering it. Whether it’s managing customer orders, corporate fleets, or the employees that “drive” the business forward, progress is accelerating in a 5G-connected era. Companies such as Werner Enterprises have embraced 5G-enabled tec…

1
Supporting EV Adoption with Rate Incentives and Equipment 28:04

1y ago28:04

28:04

Alec Mesdag, president and CEO of Alaska Electric Light and Power, discusses how electric companies can encourage and support their customers' electric vehicle adoption through lowering charging rates during certain hours and providing charging equipment at homes.By Alaska Power Association

1
Season 4: The Return of The Restless Ones 2:37

1y ago2:37

2:37

Returning for season four of the Restless Ones, an original podcast from T-Mobile for Business and iHeartRadio, host, Jonathan Strickland sits down with some of the most forward-thinking technology leaders—those at the intersection of technology and business—to explore their unique missions, challenges, and approaches to driving their organizations…

1
How the NRPA Young Professional Network Is Amplifying the Voices of the Next Generation — Episode 137 36:59

1y ago36:59

36:59

If you are an NRPA member, you may know that NRPA provides exclusive member networks to support your professional needs and development. These networks, ranging from Aquatics, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Armed Forces, Leadership Development, and more, are an opportunity to collaborate and connect with like-minded professionals from across the …

1
Prioritizing the Health and Well-Being of Our Military Communities — June Bonus Episode 40:18

1y ago40:18

40:18

The June issue of Parks & Recreation magazine is out now, and on today’s bonus episode of the podcast, we’re diving deeper into one of this month’s feature stories, “Leading the Way to Health and Well-Being: How Armed Forces Recreation Fosters Healthy Military Communities.” The article, written by Allison Colman, NRPA’s director of health, and Alex…

1
Celebrating How Parks and Recreation Keeps Communities Healthy and Connected — Episode 136 32:42

1y ago32:42

32:42

We are just a few weeks away from NRPA’s Family Health & Fitness Day, which is taking place on Saturday, June 10. Family Health & Fitness Day is an annual celebration that promotes the importance of parks and recreation in keeping communities healthy. I’m thrilled to be talking more about Family Health & Fitness Day on today’s episode, as well as a…

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