Spark’n Conversations

The Clean Lighting bill is reshaping Minnesota’s lighting landscape by reducing hazardous waste, mercury pollution, and carbon emissions. Effective January 1, 2026, the sale and distribution of pin-based linear and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) will be prohibited. In this episode, Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) Lighting Consultant Mark Rader joins Mike to break down the fluorescent lighting ban and explore what comes next for the Minnesota lighting market.

You can learn more by going to the Center for Energy & Environment's website: https://www.mncee.org/minnesota-fluorescent-ban-what-commercial-building-operators-need-know

With a partnership spanning more than 60 years, the Electrical Association and Federated Insurance come together as host Mike Miller and Regional Marketing Manager Jordy Christian discuss best practices for limiting liability and protecting your business when working with subcontractors in the electrical field.

After listening to the podcast you can go directly to the Federated Insurance website: 

https://www.federatedinsurance.com/

Our host, Mike Miller, sits down with Mariaha Dean to discuss how The Man Up Club empowers young Black males through mentorship, brotherhood, and honest conversations about life’s challenges—helping them build confidence and prepare for college, trade school, and life beyond high school.

You can find more information about the Man Up Club on their website: https://www.themanupclub.org/

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/ 

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/

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.

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.

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 

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/

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