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In this episode, guest host Pete Martin talks with Josef Hjelmaker, Founder and CEO of Electric Outdoors and a PitchMI Championship finalist, about building sustainable, off-grid infrastructure that unlocks new possibilities for landowners and communities.

Josef shares how Electric Outdoors developed the EO Canopy—a self-sustaining, solar-powered platform that enables energy independence, EV charging, and resilient microgrid capabilities without traditional infrastructure. He reflects on his path from global leadership roles in automotive, appliance, and RV manufacturing to launching a Michigan-based startup, the early support from the MSU Research Foundation and Michigan Rise, and the realities of scaling a hard-tech company. As a PitchMI finalist, Josef also discusses preparation for the $1 million Championship and offers advice for founders building in Michigan.

Host: Pete Martin
Guests: Josef Hjelmaker, Founder and CEO, Electric Outdoors
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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