Touchstone Energy Seven on 7

Large Accounts, Strong Partnerships | Episode 42

This month on Touchstone Energy’s 7 on 7 podcast, Scott Bialick, Senior Manager of Member Engagement & Business Development at Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives, sits down with Shay Reed from Costco for an insightful conversation about energy strategy, sustainability, and the evolving needs of large commercial and industrial accounts.  From resilience and reliability to battery storage, demand response, and energy accessibility, this episode explores how businesses like Costco are navigating today’s energy landscape—and why strong partnerships with electric cooperatives matter more than ever.  You’ll also hear valuable insights on what large national accounts look for when choosing new locations, the importance of proactive communication, and how co-ops can continue leading through flexibility, innovation, and community-focused service. Hosted and produced by Jana Adams, Executive Director, Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives. Edited by Rafael Fernandez, Creative Producer.

Understanding What Matters Most to Your Members | Episode 41

This month on Touchstone Energy’s Seven on 7 podcast, we’re diving into one of the most powerful tools available to electric cooperatives—research and member insights.  Joining us is Angelika Hoelger, Research Manager at Touchstone Energy, who walks us through the exciting evolution of the cooperative research portfolio and how it’s delivering more meaningful, actionable insights than ever before.  From our expanded relationship with the CFI Group/ACSI to the Cooperative Advantage Report, this episode highlights how data can drive real improvements—from energy efficiency outreach to strengthening member identity and engagement. We’ll also explore key findings, including what drives satisfaction, where opportunities exist, and how co-ops can turn feedback into action.  Plus, get a preview of what’s ahead for 2026, including new research on broadband, Gen Z, community engagement, and more. Hosted and produced by Jana Adams, Executive Director, Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives. Edited by Rafael Fernandez, Creative Producer.

Concern for Community | Episode 40

It’s time to roll up our sleeves and give back to the communities we serve. What better place to do that than at PowerXChange? As this year’s conference heads back to Tennessee, we’re supporting a local, mobile food bank and bringing back one of our standout episodes focused on the 7th Cooperative Principle—Concern for Community. In this encore conversation from 2023, we hear from two leaders at Middle Tennessee Electric (MTE): Chris Jones, President and CEO, and Robert White, VP of Member Service and Community Engagement. They share how the partnership between MTE and Touchstone Energy has supported meaningful community service projects during past PowerXChange events and how MTE continues to give back to their community in ways that go far beyond delivering electricity. Tune in for an inspiring reminder of the cooperative spirit in action. Hosted and produced by Jana Adams, Executive Director, Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives. Edited by Rafael Fernandez, Creative Producer.

LIVE Edition: The Cooperative Advantage for Business Members | Episode 39

Live from the NEXT Conference in the beautiful city of Tucson, Arizona, we’re thrilled to bring you an extended episode of the 'Seven on 7 Podcast.' This month, we dive deep into innovative approaches and valuable insights from cooperative leaders. Joining us are Lea Hoover, Director of Member and Strategic Services at Oregon Trail Electric and Jay Buchholz, Manager of Publications and Key Accounts at Sioux Valley Energy. They’ll share their unique experiences and strategies that have brought success back to their co-ops.  Discover how different cooperative approaches are driving member engagement, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of business partnerships. Tune in for this insightful conversation packed with practical tips and real-world cooperative success stories! Hosted and produced by Jana Adams, Executive Director, Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives. Edited by Rafael Fernandez, Creative Producer.

Starting Strong in 2026 with a Lasting Legacy | Episode 38

To kick off the new year, Touchstone Energy’s 7 on 7 podcast brings you a heartfelt and inspiring conversation between two leaders: Executive Director Jana Adams and Mary Ann Cristiano, Senior Director of Consumer Marketing. Mary Ann has been a key force behind many of the programs that bring real, day-to-day value to our co-op members—from national advertising and research to member engagement and digital innovation. As she prepares to close out an impactful 11-year journey with Touchstone Energy, she reflects on a legacy built on service, strategy, and innovation. Highlights include award-winning advertising campaigns, the launch of over 100 cooperative websites through the Shine program, and a revitalized national research approach. Tune in for a warm and meaningful send-off, full of valuable insights and timeless advice for co-op professionals across the network. This episode isn’t just a farewell—it’s a celebration of lasting impact and an inspiring look at what it means to lead with heart. Hosted and produced by Jana Adams, Executive Director, Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives. Edited by Rafael Fernandez, Creative Producer.