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In Episode 184, we sit down with Chris Ridge to explore the role of insulation in delivering real energy savings, in collaboration with the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association TICA. This episode focuses on how improving insulation across buildings and systems reduces heat loss, lowers demand, and cuts cost and carbon. Chris shares practical insight on identifying gaps, taking action, and prioritising insulation as a core part of any energy strategy.

In this episode of Energy Speaks Back, I’m joined by James Napier, founder of Notch, to talk about turning sustainability from a set of intentions into a clear, repeatable process that delivers outcomes. Many organisations are collecting more data than ever, but still struggle to convert it into decisions that people act on. James shares why the real challenge is not reporting, it is operational clarity. We explore how teams can create a single source of truth, assign ownership, and build simple workflows that keep sustainability moving every week, not just at year end. We also discuss what good looks like when sustainability, energy, finance, and procurement need to work together. From data to decisions is not just a phrase, it is the difference between activity and progress. If you are managing multiple sites, chasing suppliers, or trying to keep carbon, energy, and compliance aligned, this episode will give you practical ways to reduce friction and increase momentum. Listen in for a grounded conversation on actionable insights, accountability, and making sustainability easier to deliver at scale.

Grace Labeodan, Essex Castle Point - In this special episode of Energy Speaks Back, Paul returns to his home territory in Castle Point to highlight the vital work happening within his own community. After travelling the world podcasting and exploring global energy challenges, this conversation brings the focus back to local sustainability. Paul is joined by Grace Labeodan, a key figure within Castle Point’s environmental leadership. Grace plays an important role in shaping local sustainability efforts, supporting residents and businesses, and helping drive practical action across energy efficiency, waste reduction, and community resilience. Together, they explore the challenges, opportunities, and progress being made at a local authority level — showing how meaningful change often begins close to home. This episode demonstrates how strong leadership, collaboration and clear community engagement are essential components of successful sustainability delivery. A grounded, community-focused conversation that reinforces the importance of local action in the wider energy transition.

🎧 Episode 181 – Energy Management and Sustainability in Nigeria with George Okon In this episode of Energy Speaks Back, host Paul Webb sits down with George Okon, a passionate advocate for sustainable energy in Nigeria. Together, they explore how innovation, collaboration, and policy are transforming the nation’s energy landscape. From renewable energy adoption to community engagement and future development goals, George shares his experience and vision for building a cleaner, more resilient Nigeria. 💡 A powerful discussion that highlights the importance of local action in driving global sustainability.

Episode 180 | Michael McGowan – Leading Sustainability Through People In this episode of Energy Speaks Back, we meet Michael McGowan, former Sustainability Manager at Ibstock, who has built a remarkable career by combining technical insight with a people-first approach to energy and sustainability. Our conversation explores how Michael has inspired large-scale reductions in energy consumption across complex industrial operations — not through technology alone, but by empowering people, building culture, and turning passion into performance. From his early steps in manufacturing to leading sustainability strategies for one of the UK’s largest brick producers, Michael shares valuable lessons on leadership, collaboration, and driving measurable change in high-energy environments.

🎙️ Episode Title: Investing in the Future: A Conversation with Ted Konyi In this episode of Energy Speaks Back, we sit down with Ted Konyi, a visionary entrepreneur and investor dedicated to accelerating the clean technology revolution. With a deep understanding of how innovation and investment intersect, Ted shares his insights on building a sustainable energy future through strategic funding and forward-thinking business models. Our conversation explores his journey — from early ventures to his current leadership in clean tech investments — and how financial innovation can unlock real progress in the global energy transition. Whether you’re an energy professional, sustainability advocate, or aspiring investor, this episode offers inspiration and actionable wisdom for driving meaningful change. 🎧 Tune in, learn, and get energised by the conversation with Ted Konyi.

Episode 178 – Generation Restoration with Tim Christophersen, Salesforce In this inspiring episode of Energy Speaks Back, Paul sits down with Tim Christophersen, Vice President of Climate Action at Salesforce, to explore how global businesses can move beyond sustainability toward true regeneration. Tim shares insights from his new book, Generation Restoration, a call to action for companies and individuals to help restore nature at scale. From his early days growing up close to nature, through his influential work with the United Nations, to his leadership at Salesforce, Tim’s journey demonstrates how corporate innovation and environmental stewardship can work hand in hand. Together, Paul and Tim unpack what it means to make regeneration tangible for business leaders, discussing practical steps organisations can take today to build resilience, restore ecosystems, and embed purpose into their operations. If you’re passionate about sustainability, circular thinking, and creating a lasting impact — this episode will recharge your energy for change. #generationrestoration

This episode with Energy Speaks Back Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Carlo Fernández — a man whose passion for batteries truly charges the room! Carlo shared how his curiosity started at home, taking his children out at the weekends to go “battery hunting” — collecting, dissecting, and learning together how they work, and more importantly, how we can recycle and return them responsibly. What really struck me was that his passion isn’t just technical… it’s generational. Carlo is inspiring the next generation to understand energy storage, sustainability, and circular design from the ground up. ⚡ We spoke about: The future of battery technology How innovation meets education at home Why passion is the most powerful form of energy This is one of those episodes that reminds us — energy isn’t just in the grid, it’s in people. 🎧 Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Carlo Fernández on Energy Speaks Back

🎙️ Episode 176 – Energy Speaks Back In this episode, I sit down with Mun Ching Yap, Chief Sustainability & Energy Officer at AirAsia, to explore how one of Asia’s largest airlines is driving sustainability across the aviation industry. Mun Ching shares her journey into sustainability leadership and explains how her team is tackling some of aviation’s biggest challenges—from cutting carbon emissions and integrating renewable energy to building a culture of responsibility and innovation. Listeners will hear about: AirAsia’s approach to energy management and renewable projects The real challenges and successes of embedding sustainability in a global airline Why teamwork and leadership are critical in shaping a greener future This conversation is packed with insights for anyone passionate about sustainability, energy, and the future of aviation.

B2B Energy Speaks Back - Episode 175 🎙️ In this very special episode, I sit down with Aarfeen Saad someone I’ve had the privilege of watching grow over the years from education through to shaping his own ambitions and outlook on the world. This conversation isn’t just about energy and sustainability, it’s about family, opportunity, and personal journeys. Meeting him and his family recently in Kuala Lumpur #malaysia was a proud moment for me, and I’m delighted to now share his story with our community.

Episode 174 Gareth Hughes – From Accounting to Energy Innovation In this episode, we speak with Gareth Hughes, an energy professional whose journey began in accountancy before making a bold transition into the sustainability and energy sector. Gareth shares how his early career in finance gave him a solid foundation, but it was his passion for meaningful impact that led him to retrain and reimagine his future. Now fully embedded in the energy world, Gareth is helping businesses navigate the complexities of carbon reduction, energy strategy, and net-zero ambitions. We discuss: What inspired Gareth to change careers The value of upskilling in a shifting energy landscape Practical steps organisations can take to manage energy more effectively Why purpose-driven careers matter more than ever A fascinating conversation with someone who’s living proof that it’s never too late to change direction and make a real difference.

Episode 173 – Making Perfect Sense with Gary Brandwood - Perfect Sense Energy In this enlightening episode of Energy Speaks Back, we’re joined by Gary Brandwood, Managing Director of Perfect Sense Energy—a company leading the way in sustainable energy solutions for commercial and industrial buildings. Gary shares his journey from founding Perfect Sense Energy to scaling it into a trusted provider of LED lighting, solar PV, and smart controls that truly make a difference. We explore real-world examples of energy efficiency in action, and how businesses are leveraging intelligent technologies to reduce consumption, cut costs, and improve sustainability. Whether you’re an energy manager, facilities professional, or just passionate about net-zero, this episode will leave you thinking: this really does make perfect sense. 🔋 Topics we cover: The evolution of Perfect Sense Energy Practical ways to reduce energy in commercial spaces The role of LED, solar, and smart tech Lessons learned from large-scale installations Why simplicity often drives the best results

B2B Energy Speaks Back presents an interview with Paul Barker, where we discuss the importance of water treatment in energy and sustainability. Paul shares insights into how effective water treatment contributes to operational efficiency, reduces costs, and supports environmental goals. This conversation highlights why water — often overlooked — is a critical resource in managing energy and achieving sustainability targets.

Episode 171 — Building a Career in Renewables: A Conversation with Smita Barooah In this inspiring episode of Energy Speaks Back, I reconnect with Smita , a participant from my mentoring program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Smita shares her journey transitioning into the energy and sustainability sector, where she is now building a meaningful career in the renewables space. We discuss her motivations, the challenges of entering a fast-evolving industry, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Smita’s story is a testament to resilience, lifelong learning, and the impact of mentorship in shaping the next generation of energy professionals.

Phil Draper – Visionary Founder of 21 Engineering In this episode of Energy Speaks Back, I sit down with Phil Draper, the visionary founder of 21 Engineering. Phil shares his journey of building a company that’s redefining how buildings and people interact through innovation, smart technologies, and a culture of lifelong learning. We dive into the mindset behind his success, how he leads a team that blends technical excellence with human-centred design, and his insights on creating sustainable, future-ready buildings. Whether you’re looking for inspiration from a leader in the energy and building sector or want to learn how passion and innovation can transform industries, Phil’s story offers lessons for us all.