PowerGridTalks: From the Bucket Trucks to the Boardrooms – Details, episodes & analysis

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PowerGridTalks: From the Bucket Trucks to the Boardrooms

Thomas Williamson

Business

Frequency: 1 episode/13d. Total Eps: 23

PowerGridTalks: From the Bucket Trucks to the Boardrooms is a podcast hosted by Thomas Williamson, that bridges the gap between the field and the executive suite in the electric utility industry. Each episode dives into real conversations with linemen, utility leaders, and industry decision-makers to uncover the challenges, innovations, and stories shaping our power grid. From storm response and safety in the trenches to policy shifts and boardroom strategies, PowerGridTalks brings every perspective to the table. It's where the voices of the people keeping the lights on meet the leaders guiding the future of energy.

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https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/history
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https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/powergrid
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https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/lineman
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https://www.tiktok.com/@afewclickslow
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Good

Score global : 73%

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Ep 17 - 17 Days in the Dark: A Lineman's Perspective on the 2026 Ice Storm

Season 1 · Episode 17

Wednesday, April 8, 2026 • Duration 42:20

What happens when a veteran journeyman lineman, used to restoring power across the country, finds himself sitting in the dark for 17 days? In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Brian Kannada, a lineman with over 25 years of experience, to discuss the devastating 2026 ice storm that paralyzed North Mississippi.

Brian provides a rare, dual perspective—seeing the crisis both as a frustrated customer in "survival mode" and as an industry expert who knows exactly what it takes to get the lights back on. We dive deep into the systemic flaws exposed by this event, from manpower shortages and aging infrastructure to the differences between modern storm response and the historic freeze of 1994.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Manpower Gap: Why were there only three crews working 30-mile circuits when hundreds were needed?
Proactive vs. Reactive Logistics: The failure to utilize available brokers and staging resources despite a 10-day weather warning.
Infrastructure Reality: How an inch of ice turns old poles into a "domino effect" of system failure.
The Call for Transparency: Why utility cooperatives need better communication, social media engagement, and public accountability.
Lessons for the Future: How the industry can bridge the gap between "daylight and dark" to ensure this never happens again.

Whether you are in the electric utility industry, a lineman, or a customer who has felt the impact of a grid failure, this conversation is a must-listen. It's time to move past "decent" and start planning for the next big one.

(0:56) - Home During the Storm

(4:33) - Lineman Career Background

(7:14) -1994 vs Today

(11:23) - Mutual Aid Limits

(18:47) - Old Poles and Ice Load

(23:38) - Hurricane Michael Lessons

(30:40) - Demanding Transparency

(38:01) - Regional Coordination Plans

(40:05) - Why Ice Storms Are Brutal

🔗 Learn more and listen to more episodes: https://powergridtalks.com

Subscribe for more insights into the electric utilities and linemen industry.

#PowerGridTalks #LinemanLife #UtilityRestoration #GridReliability #2026IceStorm #Lineman #PowerOutage #StormResponse #ElectricalGrid #Infrastructure

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Ep 16 - No Filter Linework: Kevin Robinson on Linemen BS, Culture & the Trade

Season 1 · Episode 16

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 • Duration 01:19:57

Get an inside look at the real culture of linework in this episode of PowerGridTalks with host Thomas Williamson and special guest Kevin Robinson, founder of Linemen Bullshit. This conversation dives deep into the life of a lineman, from the jobsite to the online community, covering the grit, humor, brotherhood, and realities of working in the electrical utility industry.

Kevin shares how Linemen Bullshit became one of the most recognizable platforms in the trade, giving voice to linemen across the country. Together, we talk about what it really takes to succeed in linework, the importance of safety, lessons learned in the field, and how social media is shaping the next generation of linemen.

Whether you're a current lineman, apprentice, groundman, or someone considering line school, this episode delivers real-world insight into the electric utility industry, power line work, and the mindset required to thrive in this demanding career.

⚡ In this episode, you'll learn:

The truth about life as a lineman
How Linemen Bullshit built a massive following
The importance of safety and accountability in the trade
What new linemen need to know before entering the industry
The brotherhood and culture behind keeping the power on

If you're serious about becoming a lineman or advancing your career in the utility industry, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

(2:06) - Kevin's Trade Origins

(8:03) - Birth of Lineman Bullshit

(18:10) - Leadership Everyone's Watching

(24:06) - Safety Theater and Liability

(30:17) - Job Briefings

(33:23) - Near Miss Reporting Culture

(38:46) - Production vs Safety Reality

(44:48) - Presence Over Position

Ep 7 - Becoming a Union Lineman: IBEW Pathways, Training & Real Talk with Shannon Davis & Glen Sutherland

Season 1 · Episode 7

Wednesday, November 26, 2025 • Duration 49:27

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with IBEW representatives Shannon Davis and Glen Sutherland for an honest, detailed conversation about what it really takes to become a union lineman. From understanding the IBEW application process to navigating apprenticeships, training expectations, and long-term career opportunities, this episode breaks down every step of the journey.

Shannon and Glen share insights on:

How to get started with the IBEW
What makes a strong apprenticeship candidate
Requirements, testing, interviews, and work readiness
The realities of union linework—pay, benefits, safety, and lifestyle
Mentorship, brotherhood, and building a long, successful career in the trade

Whether you're preparing to apply, already in line school, or considering a future in the electric utility industry, this episode offers clear guidance, practical advice, and inspiration from two leaders dedicated to helping the next generation succeed.

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Ep 6 - Building the Future Lineman: Inside Utility Training with Ray Lawyer

Season 1 · Episode 6

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 • Duration 36:54

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson interviews Ray Lawyer, Training Superintendent for a major utility company, to uncover what it really takes to build the next generation of linemen. With decades of field and leadership experience, Ray breaks down how utility training programs, hands-on apprenticeships, and real-world simulation technology are shaping the future of the power grid workforce.

Ray shares powerful insights into the evolution of lineworker education, the critical role of safety culture, and how mentorship and teamwork prepare apprentices for life on the line. He also discusses how utilities are adapting to new challenges—from renewable energy integration to grid modernization—while ensuring reliability and resilience.

If you're interested in lineman careers, utility workforce development, or how the electric power industry is training the next generation of essential workers, this episode is packed with practical knowledge and inspiration.

Stay connected with us at: https://powergridtalks.com

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Ep 5 - Leading from the Ground Up: Travas Deal's Journey and the Future of Utilities

Season 1 · Episode 5

Wednesday, October 29, 2025 • Duration 40:35

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Travas Deal, CEO of Colorado Springs Utilities, to discuss his remarkable journey from the U.S. Marine Corps to leading one of the nation's most respected public utilities.

Travas shares how his background in service, discipline, and teamwork has shaped his leadership philosophy and approach to building a resilient, forward-thinking organization. The conversation covers everything from energy diversification and infrastructure modernization to community engagement, workforce development, and what it takes to lead through constant change in the utility sector.

(1:20) - Travas and His Background (8:49) - A Day In The Life (11:58) - Employee Recognition (19:50) - Safety Education for the Public (24:21) - Balancing Infrastructure Needs (31:33) - The Complexity of Cost Learn more about PowerGridTalks at: https://powergridtalks.com

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Ep 4 - Topping Out and Stepping Up: What It Takes to Become a Lineman

Season 1 · Episode 4

Wednesday, October 15, 2025 • Duration 31:03

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson talks with newly topped-out journeyman Robbie Emery about the dedication, discipline, and drive it takes to become a lineman. Robbie shares his journey from the early days of line school to earning his place on the crew, offering a real look at the challenges and rewards of working in the electric utility industry.

They dive into the mindset required to make it through apprenticeship, what "topping out" really means, and how to stay safe, humble, and hungry as you grow in the trade. Robbie also reflects on mentorship, training, and the balance between family life and linework.

Whether you're a lineman in training, a utility professional, or just curious about the people who keep the lights on, this episode delivers authentic insight into the craft, culture, and commitment behind every power line.

(0:48) - Robbie's Background (6:59) - Training Robbie Received (13:50) - Learning Curves and Biggest Struggles (18:18) - First Overnight Call Out (22:14) - Evolution of Robbie's View of the Industry (26:06) - Advice For Others Interested in the Industry (29:10) - Quick Fire Questions Stay connected with us at: https://powergridtalks.com

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Ep 3 - Safety, Storms, and the Rodeo: Lessons from Lineman Jason Novak, Founder of Climbin' For Kids

Season 1 · Episode 3

Wednesday, October 1, 2025 • Duration 45:14

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson talks with veteran lineman Jason Novak about the lessons he's learned from decades in the trade. From starting out having no idea what a lineman was, to becoming a respected foreman at Ameren Illinois and a long-time competitor in the International Lineman's Rodeo, Jason shares the grit, discipline, and mindset required to thrive in one of the toughest industries.

Jason opens up about the evolution of safety practices, the realities of working through storms and outages, the camaraderie of rodeo competition, and the challenges of balancing career and family in a high-demand profession. He also highlights the importance of mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and leadership in shaping the next generation of linemen.

(0:59) - Jason's Industry Background (4:59) - A Day in the Life (8:20) - Mindset on Safety (9:49) - Outside vs. Inside (14:44) - Safety vs. Training (23:50) - Lineman Rodeo (31:00) - Climbin' for Kids (38:43) - Quick-Fire Questions Learn more about Climbin' for Kids here: https://linktr.ee/climbin4kids?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafp__wr7cTqZQN5uMqmaeqHYKH5qqFIRay6hrvy4gl3Yi9DyK9L059biPqKoQ_aem_iGxYWJHxvtpRCHaXsTJccA

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Ep 2 - From Apprentice to Mentor: Jesse McKeral on Linework, Training, and TikTok Influence

Season 1 · Episode 2

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 • Duration 29:12

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with journeyman lineman Jesse McKeral, also known on TikTok as afewclickslow. Jesse shares his unique journey into the trade, starting with a high school youth apprenticeship program that gave him hands-on experience long before line schools became popular.

We dive into:

How Jesse transitioned from apprentice to journeyman while learning from old-school linemen.
Why training and knowledge—not just safety—are critical for the next generation of linemen.
The behind-the-scenes story of his TikTok presence, where he teaches practical linework lessons to thousands.
How Hot Tail Line Co. started as a simple sticker design and grew into a brand for linemen.
The importance of mentorship, family support, and passing on knowledge in an ever-changing utility industry.

(0:53) - Jesse's Start in the Industry (7:03) - afewclickslow on TikTok (12:32) - Higher Emphasis on Training (14:46) - Hot Tail Line Co. (17:32) - Quick Fire Questions

👉 Follow Jesse on TikTok: @afewclickslow
👉 Learn more at PowerGridTalks.com where we bring the voices of linemen, leaders, and innovators to the mic.

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Ep 1 - Building OSR and Beyond: Tammy Kent on Innovation, Growth, and Grit

Season 1 · Episode 1

Monday, September 8, 2025 • Duration 58:44

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Tom Williamson sits down with Tammy Kent, co-founder of ATK Energy Group and OneSource Restoration (OSR), to explore her incredible journey through the utility industry. From her early days helping build a company with her husband, to creating OSR from the ground up, Tammy shares the resilience, vision, and grit it takes to thrive in such a demanding field.

She shares the origin of linemanbarn.com, the lessons learned from countless storm responses, and the path that led her to co-founding ATK Energy Group, a company focused on innovation and service in the power and energy sector.

(1:15) - Background on Tammy's Businesses

(3:33) - Tammy's Start in the Industry

(7:37) - Lineman Barn

(25:46) - General Public's Biggest Misunderstanding

(27:58) - Building Key Relationships

(39:23) - Being a Female Leader in a Male-Dominated Space

(43:45) - Biggest Changes in Utility Industry

(46:44) - Renewables

(48:22) - Storm Response

Stay connected at https://powergridtalks.com

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Ep 15 - Life on the Line: Hollywood, Heart, and the Heritage of Linework

Season 1 · Episode 15

Wednesday, March 11, 2026 • Duration 01:05:40

What does it take to bring the reality of the trade to the big screen? In this episode of PowerGrid alks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Chad Dubea, an industry veteran whose career spans decades, from his early days with Red Simpson to building multiple successful line companies and helping develop the Hollywood film 'Life on the Line' starring John Travolta.

Chad isn't just a businessman; he is the founder of the Fallen Linemen Organization, a non-profit dedicated to honoring the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice and supporting the families they left behind. We go behind the scenes to explore the raw pressures of owning a contractor company, the changing culture of the trade, and why safety must be rooted in brotherhood rather than just a rulebook.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Hollywood Journey: Behind the scenes of 'Life on the Line' and the mission to show the world what the trade really takes.
The Fallen Linemen Organization: The inspiration behind the non-profit and how the industry can better support its own.
Industry Evolution: From the "wild west" days of Red Simpson to modern contractor culture.
Leadership & Trust: Why the foundation of every successful crew is built on character and looking out for the person next to you.
The Mental Toll: Discussing the real pressures of the job and the responsibility that comes with the trade.

Whether you're a journeyman with 30 years in the trade, an apprentice just starting your journey, or an industry executive, this conversation is a tribute to the people who keep the lights on.

(1:42) - Roots With Red Simpson

(4:10) - Mentors And Lessons

(9:08) - Safety Versus Production

(13:45) - Starting T&D

PowerGridTalks: From the Bucket Trucks to the Boardrooms – Details, episodes & analysis

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PowerGridTalks: From the Bucket Trucks to the Boardrooms – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

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Youtube11

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Youtube11

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