Explore every episode of the podcast CHARGE - Powering Energy Brands
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who Gets a Seat at the Energy Table? | 17 Sep 2026 | 00:13:44 | |
What happens when we stop talking about the energy transition purely as a technology or infrastructure challenge and start talking about the people who have to make it happen? In this episode, Natalie speaks with Zenobia Sayed, founder and strategy consultant behind At the Power Table Podcast , about making the energy sector more accessible, relatable and human. Zenobia shares why she believes the biggest challenge facing the energy transition is not whether we have the technology, but whether we can bring people along on the journey. They explore the power of honest conversations, storytelling and representation in building trust, from helping communities understand the purpose behind new energy infrastructure to showing people from different backgrounds that they have a place in the industry. Zenobia also discusses why energy communicators need to make complex topics relevant to everyday life, why everyone has a role to play in the transition, and why the most interesting voices are not necessarily those with the biggest titles or platforms. A conversation about people, purpose and the power of giving more voices a seat at the table. | |||
| Data Centres in the Crosshairs: Responding to Public Concerns with Jeff Hahn and Jason Stephenson | 24 Jun 2026 | 00:33:34 | |
In this episode, Prof. Fridrik Larsen sits down with Jeff Hahn, founder of Hahn Agency and an authority on crisis communications, and Jason Stephenson of Escalent, to explore the growing public opposition to data center expansion across the United States. While capital and demand behind the data center boom are at record levels, public skepticism is rising just as fast. Their research shows that awareness of data centers is widespread, but consumer knowledge remains shallow, leaving the conversation open to fears around water and energy consumption, rising utility costs, and the pace of unchecked industrial expansion. Hahn and Stephenson argue that the industry's tendency to operate "under the radar" has become a strategic liability. Without proactive communication and genuine corporate citizenship, developers and utilities risk losing the social license to operate at exactly the moment they need it most. They explore:
Jeff Hahn's data center communications playbook is available to download here: https://learn.hahn.agency/data-center-communications-playbook-info | |||
| Neuroscience & Energy Branding: Why Behavior Changes Beliefs with Dr. Kris De Meyer | 13 May 2026 | 00:17:58 | |
Are we approaching energy communication backwards? In this episode, Prof. Fridrik Larsen sits down with Dr. Kris De Meyer, Neuroscientist and Director of the UCL Climate Action Unit, to explore how the human brain responds to large-scale change in the energy sector. While the technology and capital for a lower-carbon future are ready, progress is often slowed by resistance, misinformation, and polarised narratives. Dr. De Meyer explains why the traditional PR model of “changing minds to change behavior” often fails and why action-based storytelling may be the key to building acceptance. They explore:
A fascinating discussion at the intersection of neuroscience, branding, and energy communication. | |||
| The State of Energy Brands: Insights from CHARGE North America | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:07:46 | |
What are the biggest branding and marketing challenges facing energy companies today? In this episode, Prof. Fridrik Larsen is joined by Rob Cantrell, CEO of Atlantic Energy and long-time CHARGE supporter, to reflect on the recent CHARGE North America event held at CPS Energy in San Antonio. Rob shares his key takeaways from the event, including the conversations that challenged his thinking, the sessions that delivered real practical value, and why conferences like CHARGE are becoming increasingly important for business development in the energy sector. Together they explore: • The most valuable insights and discussions from CHARGE San Antonio Rob also shares why energy leaders should stop thinking of branding as a cost centre and start seeing it as a revenue driver. | |||
| From Charging Stations to Brand Perception: The New Frontline of EV Adoption | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:20:39 | |
New research from Escalent reveals a critical shift in the EV buying journey: it’s not just about vehicle range it’s about confidence in charging infrastructure. While most EV owners charge at home, public charging reliability has an outsized impact on perception, recommendation and adoption. When charging fails, trust erodes. When it works seamlessly, it strengthens brand confidence and accelerates consideration. In this episode, KC Boyce, Vice President of Automotive & Mobility at Escalent, joins Fridrik Larsen, Founder of CHARGE/ brandr Index, to explore: • The link between charging reliability and EV recommendations For energy leaders and automakers, the message is clear: charging infrastructure is no longer just operational, it’s reputational. | |||
| Breaking Bad News: Crisis Communication Insights | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:20:40 | |
What should you say when everything goes wrong? In this episode, we’re joined by Jeff Hahn, author of Breaking Bad News and one of the most experienced voices in crisis communication. With more than 30 years in reputation management, Jeff breaks down why crisis communication isn’t a “dark art,” but a learnable system. We explore:
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| Infusing AI into Customer Experience | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:15:28 | |
AI is changing how utilities engage with customers, but the real challenge isn’t automation. It’s balance. In this episode, Fridrik Larsen speaks with Kim Maren Ekrutt, Global VP and Co-Head of the IBU Utilities at SAP, about how AI is reshaping customer experience across the energy sector. They explore:
A must-listen for anyone working at the intersection of energy, technology, and customer experience. | |||
| Investing in Brand Today for Growth Tomorrow | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:24:03 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by Nick Centera, Director of Marketing at Qcells EPC and host of the Renewable Storytellers podcast. As budgets tighten across the energy industry, brand investment is often one of the first things questioned or cut. Nick shares a candid perspective on why that’s a mistake, and how companies that stay committed to brand during uncertain times are better positioned for long-term growth. We discuss:
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| The Overlooked Value of Brand in Utilities: A Conversation with Carolyn Vadino of Con Edison | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:28:46 | |
The Overlooked Value of Brand in Utilities
Carolyn is a global marketing and communications leader whose career spans public and private sectors, from financial services to government. She has shaped brand strategies, advised executives, led crisis responses, and built trust in industries where customers may not always have a choice but where reputation, culture, and storytelling matter more than ever. We explore questions such as:
Tune in for an engaging conversation on redefining brand value, elevating communications as a strategic partner, and building trust where it matters most. | |||
| Content over beauty: The Dos and Don’ts of Influencer Marketing for the Energy Industry | 23 Oct 2025 | 00:25:02 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Thomas Hillig, Founder and Managing Director of THEnergy ,a leading consultancy helping companies innovate and navigate new business models in the energy sector. Thomas is one of the most influential voices on LinkedIn, where his daily insights shape the conversation on the energy transition. With a background in engineering, strategy, and consulting, he brings clarity and candor to a complex industry. We talk about “content over beauty” what that means for energy brands trying to engage audiences in a technical field, and how credibility, consistency, and authenticity beat polished campaigns every time. Tune in as we explore:
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| From Big Change to Everyday Impact: Inside E.ON’s “It’s On Us” Campaign | 23 Oct 2025 | 00:14:07 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by Katja Metz, Team Lead Global Marketing at E.ON, to talk about the brand’s latest campaign “It’s On Us.” Building on E.ON’s recognition as Best Established Brand at the 2024 CHARGE Awards, the campaign’s new phase takes innovation from large-scale energy projects to everyday life showing how smarter, more personal energy solutions can empower every home. Katja shares how storytelling helps make the energy transition relatable, how E.ON measures the impact of its brand work, and why connecting emotionally with customers is key to driving real change. Tune in to hear:
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| The Making of The Great Transition with DNV | 02 Oct 2025 | 00:14:13 | |
What if the future of energy looked different, because we chose differently today? In this episode, we sit down with Caroline Kamerbeek, Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs for Energy Systems at DNV, to explore the vision behind The Great Transition a short film that imagines a world where bold decisions shaped a better tomorrow. Viewed here: https://www.dnv.com/energy-transition/the-great-transition-about-the-films/ We discuss:
Listen in to discover how storytelling can reframe the energy transition and why the decisions made today will define the leaders of tomorrow. | |||
| Who Will Power the Future? Inside the Battery Branding Challenge | 25 Sep 2025 | 00:07:27 | |
Batteries are at the center of the clean energy race, yet the companies making them often struggle with public recognition leaving the sector wide open for disruption. In this episode, we speak with Keith Hoge, a true insider in the battery world. With a background in mechanical engineering, technical sales, and global marketing leadership at iM3NY, Keith brings firsthand experience from inside a battery cell startup. We dive into:
Tune in for an inside look at how the unseen component of our clean energy future could become one of its most powerful brands. | |||
| Beyond Innovation: Why Battery Brands Matter | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:23:15 | |
From electric vehicles to home backup systems, batteries are at the heart of the energy transition. Yet while many companies focus on technology, most are missing a key competitive advantage: branding. In this episode, Chet Parsons, Consultant for WCPFour and Geoffrey Abraham, Creative Director, Self Brand Studio, discuss why a strong brand matters just as much as innovation and how it can shape the success of battery companies in a rapidly evolving energy landscape. Do you agree that branding matters just as much as the product itself, or do you see it differently? | |||
| De-Risk to Dare: How Energy Brands Can Lead, Not Follow. A Conversation with Landor | 24 Jul 2025 | 00:30:41 | |
The energy sector is moving faster than ever, but are its brands bold enough to keep up? In this episode, we sit down with brand experts, Nick Cooper Global VP, Strategy & Innovation and Teemu Suviala, Global Chief Creative Officer from Landor to explore:
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| Uniting the Silos: How Thought Leader Ads Are Rewiring Clean Energy Marketing | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:23:52 | |
Marketing teams in the energy sector are often stretched thin—divided across priorities, platforms, and departments. But what if the secret to greater brand impact isn’t more budget, but better alignment? In this episode of the CHARGE podcast, we sit down with Jacob Lundy, a clean energy marketer with over a decade of experience, to explore how Thought Leader Ads on LinkedIn are bridging the gap between creative and technical teams—turning fragmented marketing into unified momentum. We unpack:
Whether you’re a CMO, content creator, or growth strategist in energy, this episode offers practical insights on building credibility, boosting performance, and using thought leadership to lead—not just advertise. | |||
| Nuclear: From black sheep to the golden child of energy? | 27 Jun 2025 | 00:22:00 | |
Nuclear energy is making a comeback—but how did it go from a global controversy to a clean energy contender? | |||
| Beyond the Stage: CHARGE North America Unpacked | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:18:42 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by Rob Cantrell, CEO of Atlantic Energy, and Dr. Fridrik Larsen, Founder of CHARGE, for a candid conversation on what unfolded at CHARGE North America. Together, they unpack the event’s biggest moments—from breakthrough ideas in brand leadership to the offstage conversations that left a lasting impact. Tune in as they explore how trust, transparency, and bold branding are shaping the future of energy—and why CHARGE remains a critical platform for driving the industry forward. Whether you were in the room or following from afar, this episode offers insights, reflections, and inspiration straight from two energy leaders at the heart of it all. | |||
| Charging Ahead: How Utilities Can Lead in the E-Mobility Ecosystem with Escalent | 21 May 2025 | 00:26:07 | |
During this episode we discuss:
Listen now to understand how utilities can shift from supporting players to central figures in the electrification of transport. | |||
| Navigating AI-Driven Fraud & Customer Experience in the Digital Age with EIQdigital | 19 May 2025 | 00:15:16 | |
As the energy sector undergoes digital transformation, utilities are not only improving customer experiences—they’re also becoming more exposed to increasingly sophisticated forms of fraud. In this episode, we’re joined by EIQdigital, a leading provider of AI-powered solutions for energy companies, to explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the industry's future. Host Natalie Bacon sits down with three members of the EIQdigital team:
Together, they unpack:
From real-time usage insights to smarter plan recommendations and 24/7 AI-driven customer service, this episode dives deep into the transformative power of AI in the energy industry. Tune in to learn how utilities can stay ahead of fraud while delivering customer-first experiences. | |||
| Powering Purpose: Jason Beck Talks ARECs, Supply Chain Engagement, and Brand Integrity | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:10:40 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Jason Beck, a founding member of Zettawatts, to explore how the company is reshaping clean energy procurement for corporations. Jason walks us through how Zettawatts enables businesses, regardless of size, to make a tangible impact on the energy transition by facilitating access to new renewable energy projects and helping them meet their net-zero commitments. This informative discussion covers: -Decarbonizing the Supply Chain: How Zettawatts helps corporations engage their suppliers in renewable energy purchasing to reduce Scope 3 emissions. Whether you're working in sustainability, energy, or corporate strategy, this episode offers valuable insights into how innovative procurement models like those from Zettawatts are helping businesses take real, measurable action on climate. | |||
| The Sound of Branding: How Music Shapes the Future of Energy Brands with Michael Boumendil | 28 Mar 2025 | 00:24:25 | |
We’re back with a new podcast episode featuring Michael Boumendil, President & Chief Creative Officer of Sixième Son, as he explores the transformative role of sonic branding in shaping brand identity. With years of experience pioneering sound design for global brands, Michael shares how businesses, especially in the energy sector, can use audio to forge connections, build recognition, and stand out in a competitive market. In this engaging discussion, they cover:
Whether you're a marketer, brand strategist, or just curious about the intersection of sound and branding, this episode is a must-listen! | |||
| How Decentralized Energy is Transforming Emerging Markets with William Brent | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:25:02 | |
We are back with a new podcast episode where we sit down with , William Brent, Chief Marketing Officer at Husk Power, as he shares his expertise on the transformative role of decentralized renewable energy in accelerating energy access and sustainability. As a leader in the global energy transition, William provides valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of microgrids and clean energy solutions in emerging markets. In this informative discussion, they cover:
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of branding, energy, and sustainability. | |||
| Innovating Energy Access with Daniel Kitwa | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:19:22 | |
In this new podcast episode, Daniel Kitwa, Director of Energy Access Finance at Greenmax Capital Group, shares insights from the frontlines of off-grid energy development across Sub-Saharan Africa. As a nominee for Charge's 2024 Rising Star in Energy Award, Daniel brings valuable perspective on the evolution of energy access solutions in developing markets. In this informative discussion, they cover:
This episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in the intersection of sustainable energy access, community development, and innovative financing in emerging markets. | |||
| Building a distinctive B2B energy brand with Roland Punt | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:22:13 | |
In this episode, Roland Punt, Head of Marketing at Sympower, explores the journey of building a distinctive B2B energy brand. Sympower, one of Europe’s leading flexibility service providers, is enabling smarter energy management and stabilizing electricity grids across the continent. In this insightful discussion, they cover:
This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of branding and transformative energy solutions. | |||
| Transforming EV Infrastructure for a Greener Future with Wenche Teigland | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:16:53 | |
In this episode, Wenche Teigland, CEO of Fount explores Europe’s transition to electric mobility and the critical role of EV infrastructure in accelerating adoption. With her extensive background in renewable energy and tech innovation, Wenche offers a fresh perspective on the customer experience in EV charging—an essential yet often underemphasized factor in driving the shift to electric vehicles. In this insightful discussion, they cover: - Reliability and Uptime: How improving the reliability of charging systems can build user trust and support EV growth. - Standardization Across Brands: The importance of a seamless experience through standardized charging solutions. - Simplified User Interfaces and Open Payment Systems: How to make charging as user-friendly as possible. - Private Charging Options and Smart City Planning: Preparing for the future by integrating EV infrastructure into smart city initiatives - Fleet Electrification Challenges: The unique considerations and solutions for electrifying vehicle fleets. Wenche highlights what’s needed to make EV charging as convenient as traditional refueling and discusses how Europe can close the gap with Norway’s EV success. Tune in to this forward-thinking episode on shaping a sustainable, accessible future for EV users! | |||
| Fraud Prevention Tools for the Energy Sector with Miguel Jimenez | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:08:37 | |
In this episode, host Natalie Bacon chats with Miguel Jimenez, co-founder of SeeMeSign, a tech startup revolutionizing contract verification for the energy sector through automation and AI. With SeeMeSign’s innovative tools, energy companies can streamline onboarding, prevent fraud, and safeguard their brand integrity—all without a call center. In this eye-opening discussion, Miguel dives into: - Risks in Door-to-Door Sales: How door-to-door sales can lead to fraud and compromise customer trust in the energy sector. - Automated Video Verification for Trust: How SeeMeSign’s automated video verification solution reduces cancellations and enhances customer confidence. - Lessons from Real-World Cases: Insights into how poor sales practices have damaged company reputations and what can be done to avoid these pitfalls. - Video Documentation for Dispute Resolution: The value of video recordings for transparent documentation and resolving disputes effectively. Miguel’s insights and SeeMeSign’s solutions offer essential strategies for energy companies focused on improving transparency, minimizing losses, and elevating the customer experience. Tune in as Natalie and Miguel explore the future of fraud prevention in the energy industry. | |||
| Building Community Acceptance for Renewable Infrastructure with Kristian Ruby | 21 Nov 2024 | 00:20:56 | |
In this episode, host Dr. Fridrik Larsen sits down with Kristian Ruby, Secretary General of Eurelectric, to tackle a crucial question: What does it take to gain social license for renewable energy infrastructure? With a wealth of experience in sustainability, climate policy, and energy advocacy, Kristian brings a unique perspective on how to drive community support for Europe’s energy goals. In this engaging discussion, they cover: - Europe's Energy Gap: Why Europe needs to add 600,000 megawatts of new capacity by 2030 to meet climate goals and maintain reliability. - Developer Challenges: From lengthy permitting processes to complex grid connections, Kristian highlights the obstacles that renewable project developers face. - Communication Hurdles: Infrastructure projects can be difficult to communicate. Learn how community-centered engagement strategies can build support and overcome resistance. - Best Practices for Community Engagement: Discover how involving communities early and offering tangible benefits fosters acceptance and trust in renewable projects. This episode offers a rare look into the strategies and challenges of building community acceptance for the energy transition. Don’t miss it! | |||
| How do we influence more sustainable solutions without manipulation? With Torben Emmerling | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:23:25 | |
In this episode, host Dr. Fridrik Larsen welcomes Torben Emmerling, Chief Behavioural Officer & Partner of Team Farner. Torben brings invaluable expertise on applying behavioral science to inspire lasting sustainable actions, transforming theoretical frameworks into real-world strategies. Together, they explore a fundamental question: How can we drive sustainable solutions authentically and effectively? In this engaging conversation, they delve into: - Simplifying sustainable actions through behavioral science principles – Torben explains how small shifts in approach can ease the adoption of eco-friendly habits. - The significance of gradual change for long-lasting impact – They discuss why sustainable transformation thrives on steady progress rather than abrupt shifts. - Real-world examples of nudging individuals and organizations toward energy efficiency- From incentivizing change to refining messaging, learn how subtle adjustments can foster sustainable habits. - Balancing incentives with messaging for meaningful change– Explore how to motivate long-term behavior change without manipulation, focusing on authenticity and respect. Don’t miss this episode packed with insights and actionable ideas! | |||
| Software: The next frontier in energy with Alice Goodman | 31 Oct 2024 | 00:23:42 | |
In this episode, host Dr. Fridrik Larsen welcomes Alice Goodman, Head of Marketing Communications at Kaluza, Named one of CHARGE’s Rising Stars in Energy last year, Alice has made a remarkable impact at Kaluza, where she established the critical importance of marketing and branding in a company largely focused on tech and product development. Together, they explore the groundbreaking role of software in energy and how it is reshaping communication strategies. Alice shares her expertise on: - Kaluza’s journey and mission as a pioneer in energy software and the unique insights gained from being one of its first employees. - What sets Kaluza apart from other tech disruptors, focusing on its distinct approach within the energy sector. - The evolution of communication needs and strategies over the past five years, and where she anticipates further transformation in the industry. - The impact of software on energy retailers today, highlighting key shifts that businesses need to navigate. - How Kaluza's global reach across diverse markets influences its approach to marketing and communication, with a focus on understanding and adapting to both differences and similarities. - Tackling the complexities of an industry filled with technical jargon, where Kaluza employs a “simplify to amplify” approach to effectively connect with its audiences. - How she brings the whole organization along on the journey, embedding marketing’s value across the business to foster understanding and engagement. Alice also shares her perspective on building a more positive narrative for the energy industry, exploring ways to communicate the sector’s impactful work. Join Fridrik and Alice for an inspiring discussion on how software is emerging as the next frontier in energy, shaping not only the sector’s future but also its story. | |||
| Communicating the Energy Transition amidst so many other serious issues with Daan Remarque | 24 Oct 2024 | 00:23:00 | |
In this episode, host Dr. Fridrik Larsen welcomes Daan Remarque, a behavioral psychologist and seasoned brand and communications strategy consultant with over 20 years of experience. Daan is also the author of Het Jojo Effect, a book focused on personal behavior change, and a climate optimist contributing to the financial newspaper FD. | |||
| Sherry Kennedy on Energy Justice and Communications | 09 Oct 2024 | 00:15:45 | |
In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Sherry Kennedy, Director of Communications for Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL).
Tune in with Natalie as she and Sherry delve into these critical topics and more. Stay informed and inspired as we work toward a just and sustainable energy future. | |||
| Strategical options to improve Customer Excellence with Khaled Popal | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:23:44 | |
Strategical options to improve Customer Excellence In this episode we have the pleasure of speaking with Khaled Popal, Senior Managing Partner and Director of the Energy Industry for DXC Europe and the UK & Ireland regions. With more than 20 years of expertise in technology leadership and digital innovation within the energy and utilities sectors, Khaled provides a deep dive into the future of energy and the pivotal role of customer excellence in shaping industry transformation.
Tune in with Natalie as she and Khaled delve into these essential topics and more. Stay informed and inspired as we advance towards a transformative energy future. | |||
| Introducing Our New Podcast Series: I am an Energy Gamechanger | 22 Jul 2024 | 00:17:53 | |
In this episode of the Energy Gamechanger series, we are thrilled to welcome Caroline Kamerbeek from DNV. Join us as Caroline shares her insights on building a safe and sustainable future through professional marketing and communications. She passionately believes in the power of our profession to significantly accelerate the energy transition. Together with our host, Dr Fridrik Larsen, Founder of CHARGE, Caroline delves into:
Tune in to hear Caroline's expert views on how we can all contribute to making the energy transition a reality and be inspired to become an Energy Gamechanger yourself! | |||
| Friðrik Larsen The Energy Space Invaders | 23 May 2024 | 00:14:59 | |
DR. FRIÐRIK LARSEN is the CEO of LarsEn Energy Branding and CHARGE Conference Chairman. He is one of the world’s leading experts in the field of energy branding and the first person to earn a doctorate in that subject area. As a keynote speaker, executive trainer and a consultant, he has been on the forefront of the subject and has provided his services to energy companies around the world. | |||
| Dr Fridrik Larsen talks about the existence of customers with The Brand Project | 28 Feb 2024 | 00:07:40 | |
Are you forgetting about the existence of your customer? 👀 | |||