S1E8: Bright Sparks: The Growth of Solar Energy in Hawaii with Ryan Park

11/11/23 • 43 min

Welcome to Episode 8 of the Aloha Thumbprint, where we delve into the intriguing world of renewable energy. In this episode, the spotlight is on Ryan Park, founder of California's largest solar company, as he traces his incredible journey from studying business at Cal Poly to revolutionizing the solar industry. Despite the initial struggles, his impact is undeniable with the sale of his company to Sunrun.
Tune in to hear more about their sustainable vision for the future and how the spirit of Aloha has guided and influenced their personal and professional lives. Get ready to be inspired and informed about the transformative power of solar energy!
03:10 Passion, purpose, and growth led to solar.
06:25 Building solar company with passion and purpose.
07:49 Career surprises, love, authenticity, and new beginnings.
12:22 Played golf, met locals, invited on trip.
16:36 Passion for solar; 200MW energy transformation.
19:07 Ethan persuades Ryan to join Power company.
23:14 Resilience and purpose drive the solar industry.
24:21 Platform streamlines business processes, helps access capital.
30:23 Advancements in solar and electric batteries improve.
31:54 Transition to solar for energy independence and stability.
35:47 Enthusiasm for solar, suggest steps for involvement.
38:15 Hawaii offers opportunity for impactful renewable energy.

Previous Episode

S1E7: Powur: Bringing About Change in Renewable Energy with Bobby Smith

Welcome to another episode of The Aloha Thumbprint, where we explore topics that are not only timely, but deeply impactful. In today's episode, we dive into the pressing issue of climate-related anxieties among young people. With recent events only intensifying their fears and concerns, it's clear that we need to do a better job of educating and empowering the next generation. Bobby Smith shares his insights on the importance of educating high school and college students about renewable energy, while also providing them with opportunities that are not only financially rewarding, but also impactful. We explore solutions like the powur program that can help restore confidence. Additionally, we shed light on the unique challenges faced by those living in Hawaii, where the high cost of living and limited opportunities pose significant obstacles. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into another enlightening episode of The Aloha Thumbprint.
00:00:57 Introducing Bobby Smith, Field President of Powur.
00:06:34 Powur, a sustainable platform promoting renewable energy.
00:07:30 Solar industry breaks the corporate mold, succeeds.
00:12:11 Nonprofit work challenges, need for climate action.
00:16:53 Anxiety and lack of jobs in Hawaii.
00:19:47 Referrals, Solar, Real estate, Homeowners, Revenue, Stock options.
00:23:22 Culture starts at the top, Jonathan leads.
00:25:16 Jonathan Bud: Visionary, brilliant CEO, great listener.
00:28:37 Understanding market, finding ambassadors, discovering motivations.
00:31:49 Nervous but embraced culture; felt at home.
00:37:21 Style, individuality and coolness in our company.
00:40:13 Aloha spirit, authenticity, engaging, connecting yield success.
00:43:46 Successful mentor emphasized expanding markets and passive income.
00:46:50 Indoor online life limits human connection.
00:49:55 Grateful for gracious treatment during travels.
00:52:43 Couples and women in leadership