Solar Disruption Theory

Brett Bouchy and Chad Towner sound the alarm on a late-night move in Congress that could derail residential solar in America. A few lines of negative language were quietly slipped into a major energy bill, and it just passed the House by one vote 215-214. Brett breaks down the urgency, the path forward, and why the next few weeks could define the future of our industry. The spotlight is on solar. Now is our time to lead, act, and win.

Jake Hess, founder of Solar Con and The Morning Energy Show, joins the podcast to talk about his journey from door-knocker to industry leader. He shares how his drive to educate solar professionals led to the creation of Solar Academy and how Solar Con became a powerful platform for connection and growth. Jake reflects on the industry's recent challenges, the rising focus on sales compliance, and his vision for a more sustainable future in solar. Don't miss this insightful conversation about resilience, impact, and what's next for solar in 2025.

The solar industry is facing unprecedented challenges, from shifting political landscapes to tightening capital markets and accelerating consolidation. In this episode, Brett Bouchy and Chad Towner break down what's happening behind the scenes—why financing stability is crucial, how domestic content requirements are evolving, and why redlines are rising. Brett shares his candid take on leadership, resilience, and why Freedom Forever is positioned to thrive despite industry contraction. If you're in solar, this is the episode you can't afford to miss.

Justin Wolf, former CEO of Meraki Solar and now VP at Solar Pros, joins Chad to discuss his evolution in the solar industry. From his roots in alarm sales to leading a solar powerhouse, Justin shares how his competitive spirit, strategic market moves, and belief in Freedom Forever's superior model shaped his career. They dive into the lessons from Meraki's peak, the industry's shifts since 2022, and why focusing solely on sales has been a game-changer. Plus, hear Justin's thoughts on the future of installers, economies of scale, and the power of saving money as solar's ultimate product.

Aparna Mohla, VP of Corporate Partnerships at Give Power, shares her incredible journey from growing up in Mumbai, India, to becoming a trailblazer in the solar industry. From her early days at SolarCity to transformative work with Give Power, Aparna talks about her "why" for clean energy, the power of authenticity in sales, and creating a lasting impact. Discover how her partnership with Freedom Forever drives change, builds karma, and transforms lives. For more on Give Power, visit GivePower.org

Chad and Riley Traveller, CEO of Boundless Energy, dive into the ups and downs of the solar industry, from financial roadblocks to the energy arms race across the globe. Riley shares insights on thriving in tough times, the importance of customer relationships, and why solar remains full of opportunity. They also discuss Boundless Energy's mission to set the gold standard in training and growth. Don't miss Riley's take on the state of the industry.

Divisional VPs Chris Melink and Kameron Gray from Solar Pros share how they smashed growth records and aligned with Freedom Forever's vision. With Brett Bouchy's relentless commitment, they forged a partnership that changed everything. Tune in to hear their insights on overcoming challenges, why alignment is key to success, and how Freedom Forever offers the “safest landing spot” in the solar industry. 

In this powerful episode, Chad Towner and Tyler Jackson share personal stories of resilience and optimism. Tyler reflects on his battle with cancer, his daughter Sloan's life-changing diagnosis, and how positivity shaped their journeys. From business plans during chemo to celebrating Sloan's progress, this conversation highlights the strength found in struggle and the joy of working with your best friends. Don't miss inspiring moments like, “You have to go through the storms to know what the sunshine feels like.”

In this compelling episode, Chad sits down with Tyler Jackson, President at Solar Pros and a key figure in the solar industry. With 21 years of friendship and shared experiences, Tyler and Chad reflect on the highs and lows of door-to-door sales, from selling alarms to pioneering solar in Texas. Listen as they recount their first solar sale, the groundbreaking impact of Freedom Forever in Texas, and why visionary leadership drives success in the solar industry. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Tyler opens up about personal challenges that shaped his journey.

We dive deep with Aaron Weymann as he shares his journey from being a standout soccer player to becoming a leader in the solar industry. He shares how his determination to create a better life for his family led him to solar, and how he's thrived by riding the “next big wave.” Aaron also discusses the importance of partnering with the right company, like Freedom Forever, to stay ahead in a fast-changing market. Tune in for inspiring insights on success, leadership, and what it takes to win in the solar space!  

In this episode, Freedom Forever's President of Sales, Kiley Powell, shares insights from his 23-year journey in door-to-door sales and how his vision and purpose have driven his success. He discusses why joining Freedom Forever aligned with his values, the importance of building strong relationships, and how Freedom is setting new standards in the solar industry. With a mission-oriented focus and a commitment to giving back, Kiley explains how his role bridges sales and construction and why long-term thinking and education are key to transforming customer experiences. Don't miss his advice on surrounding yourself with great leaders and seizing opportunities in solar!

In this electrifying episode, host Chad Towner sits down with Aaron Lee, a door-to-door sales veteran and VITL's co-founder. Aaron shares his journey from his upbringing in Provo, UT, and the unconventional success behind VITL. Don't miss his powerful advice on perseverance, leadership, and the importance of honesty in sales. Tune in for a dose of inspiration!

We sat down with founders Chris Collins and Tim Trefren to introduce Recheck, a verification platform that builds trust in the solar industry by ensuring ID verification in sales. They discuss the industry's biggest challenge—lack of trust—and how Recheck helps good sales reps thrive. They also highlight the importance of affordable energy in accelerating solar deployment. Learn more at recheck.co!

In this episode, Paul Stephan, Chief Business Development Officer at GoodLeap, shares his remarkable journey from building his own financial company to becoming a leader in solar finance. Paul discusses the exciting new relationship between GoodLeap and Freedom Forever and reflects on his passion for disrupting the industry while helping homeowners. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs, navigating an ever-changing industry, and maintaining trust in the solar sector. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of solar finance!

In this episode, we talk with Riley Traveller, CEO of Boundless Energy, and President Jay Pelletz about their powerful partnership with Freedom Forever. Riley offers bold market predictions and explains how their companies are thriving despite industry challenges. Jay emphasizes the importance of trust and communication, and shares strategies for navigating new regulations and leveraging security in business. Don't miss their insights on succeeding in a competitive landscape! 

In this season's first episode, CEO Brett Bouchy discusses the solar industry's challenges in 2024. He shares strategies for lowering costs, gaining market share, and how to navigate the transition away from NEM. Brett also offers bold predictions for 2025, insights on domestic content, and why a customer-first approach will shape the future of solar. Don't miss this episode!

From Naval pilot and Pentagon analyst to CEO of solar financing giant, Mosaic, Patrick Moore is no stranger to risky situations. In this episode, Moore takes us into the world of solar financing, breaking down ever-changing interest rates, misconceptions around dealer fees, and how finance companies make a profit. Tune in to hear how Mosaic is changing the renewable energy movement, one loan at a time.

What is the cost of “loyalty?” In solar sales, it could cost you up to 60% of your sales commission. In this episode of the Solar Disruption Theory, CEO Brett Bouchy talks about how many installers and sales organizations take advantage of sales reps' misconceptions of the industry and their “loyalty” by sneaking unethical provisions into their agreements. Tune in to uncover the chaos and the solution that's on the horizon for Freedom Forever!

In this electrifying episode, we dive into the dynamic realm of solar escrow with Kelly Curtis, the CEO and mastermind behind Paykeeper. From Curtis' unique experience in construction financing emerges a solution for solar cash projects and more. Tune in to explore how Paykeeper's innovative approach not only provides a safety net for both contractors and homeowners, but also regulates cash flows in an industry facing regulatory challenges.

While California is widely known for its support and love for solar, a perplexing decision like NEM 3 raises questions about the influence of power companies and the ongoing battle against utility monopolies. Bernadette del Chiaro and Brad Heavner from CALSSA (California Solar and Storage Association), the champions advocating for the entire solar food chain in the Golden State, unveil the complexities of the solar industry causing a disconnect between consumers' perspectives and regulatory decisions. Join us for a compelling conversation as we untangle the intricate web of California's solar landscape and its resilient journey toward a sustainable energy future!

Danny Rubin has been riding the solar-coaster since 2007 and has experienced it all, from being a self-proclaimed “not very good” installer to selling solar, to now being Freedom Forever's VP of Field Operations. Having witnessed the evolution of the industry over the last 16 years has made this seasoned expert an integral part of the company's safety culture, installation quality, growth, and success. Join us for a riveting discussion on solar's past, present, and future, as Danny shares his vision and ambitious goal for the solar landscape - installing a gigawatt in a single year. Tune in!

2023 marked a year of chaos for solar, with rising interest rates and a “reckoning” for many installers. Despite the challenges, Freedom Forever's commitment to operations and game-changing software, LIGHTSPEED, created a reliable platform to sell solar. Growth remains steadfast, and new markets are continuously opening up, yet the disruptions have left a trail of lessons and opportunities in the solar marketplace. As the industry looks ahead to a brighter future, with lower interest rates on the horizon and declining equipment costs, Freedom Forever sets sights on creating genuine alignment with its sales partners and customers. So how does Freedom Forever plan to keep up with its growth in 2024? Tune in to our insightful conversation with CEO Brett Bouchy to find out!

Solar Disruption Theory host Chad Towner reunites with his first ever sales manager, CEO of VITL, Tyler Bastian. Learn the secrets to the disruptive 10/20 sales model and how VITL is bringing uncommon energy to the industry and to homes across the country!

In part 2 of this special edition episode with SEIA, Abby and John break down the government's new incentives and how that will change the future of solar. With the increasing complexity of foreign imports and supply chain limitations, it's clear that we need to grow solar manufacturing in the United States. Thanks to SEIA and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), we plan to do just that. Tune in to hear how Freedom Forever is expanding our investment in American-made solar!

On part one of this special edition two part episode of the Solar Disruption Theory podcast, we're honored to be joined by SEIA, the Solar Energy Industries Association. Abigail Ross Hopper, CEO and John Smirnow, SVP of Supply Chain and Sustainability, give us a behind-the-scenes look into how the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) came to be. Riding the highs and lows of the solar coaster, the perseverance of their team at SEIA prevailed to create the most transformative legislation in the history of solar. From the stackable adders to loans and PPAs, watch for the full breakdown of the IRA!

On December 15, 2022, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) unanimously voted to eliminate the state's solar net energy metering (NEM) program and replaced it with a “Net Billing Tariff.” Join us for part two of Senior Research Analyst Philip Shen's Solar Disruption Theory episode as we dive into what this means for the customer and why solar storage will likely be included in every system. For everything you need to know about NEM 3.0, visit the Freedom Forever blog! ROTH makes a market in shares of Canadian Solar Inc., Enphase Energy, Inc., First Solar, Inc., Generac Holdings Inc., JinkoSolar Holdings Co., Ltd, Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd., Sunnova Energy International, Inc., Sunrun Inc., SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. and SunPower Corporation and as such, buys and sells from customers on a principal basis. A Research Analyst and/or a member of the Analyst's household own(s) debt or equity securities of Enphase Energy, Inc. and Sunrun Inc. stock. Within the last twelve months, ROTH Capital Partners, or an affiliate to ROTH Capital Partners, has received compensation for investment banking services from Sunnova Energy International, Inc.. Within the last twelve months, ROTH Capital Partners, or an affiliate to ROTH Capital Partners, has managed or co-managed a public offering for Sunnova Energy International, Inc..

Panel price changes and a growing popularity of PPAs over loans are just some of the financial shifts Philip Shen, MD & Senior Research Analyst, expects us to see in the coming year. Tune in to hear this solar industry veteran from ROTH Capital Partners break down the Investment Tax Credit's new adders, why batteries may soon be the trick to creating more savings with PPAs, and how to score the most credit for customers with a manufacturing renaissance on the horizon for the United States. ROTH makes a market in shares of Canadian Solar Inc., Enphase Energy, Inc., First Solar, Inc., Generac Holdings Inc., JinkoSolar Holdings Co., Ltd, Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd., Sunnova Energy International, Inc., Sunrun Inc., SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. and SunPower Corporation and as such, buys and sells from customers on a principal basis. A Research Analyst and/or a member of the Analyst's household own(s) debt or equity securities of Enphase Energy, Inc. and Sunrun Inc. stock. Within the last twelve months, ROTH Capital Partners, or an affiliate to ROTH Capital Partners, has received compensation for investment banking services from Sunnova Energy International, Inc.. Within the last twelve months, ROTH Capital Partners, or an affiliate to ROTH Capital Partners, has managed or co-managed a public offering for Sunnova Energy International, Inc..

We're no strangers to disruption, and Freedom Forever CEO Brett Bouchy is ready to shake things up by disrupting the solar sales stack. What's his philosophy behind this change? “Be a light in the industry and do what's right, not what's easy. When you focus on changing the customer's life and changing the world, the money will come.” Solar sales reps, this one is for you! Tune in to see how there's no better way to leave a legacy than being in solar.

Welcome to Tech-mecula! In this episode, we sit down with Freedom Forever's very own Zach Bloom, to see how he and his team turned over 1,200 standard operating procedures into the first CRM software custom-built for solar, which we call LIGHTSPEED. Tune in to see how he rose up to the challenge and what's next for LIGHTSPEED features. Make sure you stay til the end for a special announcement!

In our latest episode, we sit down with Boundless Inc., CEO Riley Traveller and President Jay Pelletz to hear how they managed to break yet another company sales record… in OCTOBER. Their recipe for success? Leadership. The culture at Boundless focuses on growing leaders and never leaving a rep to walk the lonely road on a boulevard of broken dreams. Tune in!

On this special Veteran's Day episode, we sit down with Sunder Energy CEO, Max Britton, to unlock his military background and how it prepared him to take on the solar industry. Tune in to see how Max's leadership and empowerment of others has grown Sunder into one of the largest solar sales companies in the country!

One year ago, an unprecedented shortage of solar panels rocked the US installation market. Get the inside scoop on how Freedom Forever prevailed during this crisis, how the Freedom Forever module came to be, and a glimpse into the future of panel adders.

Welcome to Season 4 of Solar Disruption Theory! We're kicking things off with Freedom Forever's very own Brett Bouchy. On this episode, learn more about his journey from stock broker to solar CEO, and why he believes in a future built on renewable energy.

In this episode, we sat down with Aurora Solar's co-founder and COO, Sam Adeyemo, to talk about their disruptive platform, Sales Mode AI. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this week's episode of Solar Disruption Theory, we sat down with Freedom Forever's Policy Director, Steven Letendre, to discuss the future of solar and what you can do to help curb the climate crisis. You won't want to miss this episode! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We sat down with Vivint CEO, David Bywater, to talk about his background in solar and technology, the future of the smart home, and our new strategic partnership. You won't want to miss this episode! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

For our very first episode of Solar Disruption Theory, we sat down with Mosaic CEO, Billy Parish to talk about humble beginnings, the evolution of solar loan performance, and the future of solar energy. In today's episode, he returns to give us an update on all things Mosaic, climate change, and Freedom Forever's disruptive new partnership with Vivint Smart Home. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Sean and Jules sit down with California Solar & Storage (CALSSA) Executive Director Bernadette Del Chiaro for an eye-opening conversation about the attack on California solar by the utilities. Bernadette is the heart and soul of CALSSA and has led the successful effort to preserve solar-friendly Net Metering and other policies in CA. With her help, we uncover why the utilities are going after California solar users, what's at stake, and how to join the fight. To learn more about Bernadette and CALSSA, visit calssa.orgTo join the SRA, head over to solarrights.orgFor more info on how to defend net metering in California, visit savecaliformiasolar.orgFor everything, you need to know about Freedom Forever and the Solar Disruption Theory podcast, visit solardisruptiontheory.com. The Solar Disruption Theory would be nothing without our amazing guests. Want to join us on an episode? Drops us a line and let us know what you would like to talk about on the show. Include as much information as you would like! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It’s Earth Day and we’ve got something special that we’ve put together for you. In honor of this special day, we’ll be talking about ways you can get involved at home to support this wonderful planet. We’ve got the tools to help you succeed in your environmental efforts including some great resources from the Freedom Forever Blog. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This month, Sean and Jules had an eye-opening conversation with Michelle Romero, National Director at Dream Corps, Green For All. The Green For All program fights for a world that is green for all, not green for some. Michelle shed light on the clean air crisis, the need for green jobs, and more.Dream Corps work at the intersection of the environmental, economic, and racial justice movements to advance solutions to poverty and pollution. Under Michelle’s leadership, Green For All has been a leading voice against efforts to dismantle climate and clean energy progress and is working to shift billions of dollars from polluter pockets to polluted communities through carbon pricing and inclusive financing strategies.LinksTo learn more about Dream Corps Green For All, and how to get involved, visit greenforall.org or text “GREEN” to 97483. For information on #FUELCHANGE, check out our blog!The Solar Disruption Theory would be nothing without our amazing guests. Want to join us on an episode? Drops us a line and let us know what you would like to talk about on the show. Include as much information as you would like! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this episode, we sat down with Luke Rowan Co-Founder at EdApp Microlearning, and Freedom Forever’s Director of Internal Communications, EJ Dayrit. We had an in-depth discussion about corporate learning and the importance of education in business.We also discuss President Biden’s plan for combatting climate change. We explain the executive actions that have been signed including rejoining the Paris Climate Agreement. There’s a lot to unpack!LinksFACT SHEET: President Biden Takes Executive Actions to Tackle the Climate Crisis at Home and AbroadBlog - John Kerry to become U.S. Envoy for ClimateTo learn more about EdApp, head over to EdApp.comThe Solar Disruption Theory would be nothing without our amazing guests. Want to join us on an episode? Drops us a line and let us know what you would like to talk about on the show. Include as much information as you would like! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

New Year, New Season! Solar advocacy through organizations like Solar United Neighbors (SUN) has been instrumental in creating legislative change and protecting the rights of solar users. Anya Schoolman, Executive Director of SUN joins us to kick of 2021 and Season 2 of the Solar Disruption Theory Podcast. Our discussion includes organization goals, advocacy resources, education around sustainable development, and how to make complex issues relevant to the community.Linkshttps://www.solarunitedneighbors.org/https://www.nationalsolartour.org/Blog - Federal tax credit for solar power extendedSEIA’s 100 Day AgendaThe Solar Disruption Theory would be nothing without our amazing guests. Want to join us on an episode? Drops us a line and let us know what you would like to talk about on the show. Include as much information as you would like! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

For this episode we are joined by co-founder of Modernize Home Services, Chris Pallatroni! Modernize Home Services has the goal to offer the best resources to bring your home upgrades to life by providing quality educational content to inspire ideas, and by connecting you with their network of industry-leading contractors to get projects done. We talk marketing, door-knocking and all things home improvement!To learn more about Modernize, head over to modernize.com and don’t forget to check out the Built Better Podcast on Apple and Spotify.For everything, you need to know about Freedom Forever and the Solar Disruption Theory podcast, visit solardisruptiontheory.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In the latest episode, we discuss safety, quality and compliance with a couple of our Freedom Forever rockstars: Quality Assurance Manager, Drew Dunlap and Matt Yantos who recently joined the Freedom Forever Family in the role of Director of Environmental Health and Safety. Tune in and find out why we work safe at Freedom Forever. For everything, you need to know about Freedom Forever and the Solar Disruption Theory podcast, visit solardisruptiontheory.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Sean and Jules sat down for an inspiring conversation with Dave Rosenfeld who is the Executive Director of the Solar Rights Alliance. Dave has been a community organizer for over twenty years and believes people power is the best way to overcome special interests. To learn more about the Solar Rights Alliance and how you can get involved, head over to solarrights.orgFor information on Solar United Neighbors visit solarunitedneighbors.org See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to Episode 6! In this episode, Sean and Jules are joined by VP of Field Operations, Brian Eglsaer. Brian brings his expertise to the table to discuss Freedom Forever's expansion across the nation. Plus we talk about recruiting, safety and the processes that allow Freedom to thrive in these uncertain times. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We’re back! In this episode, we are joined by Freedom Forever’s VP of Marketing, Julianne Ribarits. We talk with “Jules” about all things marketing and why the user experience is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus we go behind the scenes of Freedom Forever’s first-ever infomercial and discuss the details of Freedom’s Solar Stimulus program. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In our latest episode we sat down with visionary, Eric White with Dividend Finance. Eric discusses his unique view point, his thoughts on the industry and what he sees for the future of solar. Eric shares many of the same views as Freedom Forever when it comes to company values. Let's see how we align in disrupting an industry!Follow us:| Subscribe| Blog| Facebook| Twitter| Instagram| LinkedIn See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We really kicked it into high gear with this episode! We had the chance to sit down with the man that helped make “No money down” famous, Jigar Shah. This solar leader, influencer and entrepreneur blew our minds as he shared his thoughts on selling solar in the digital age, industry integrity and the importance of policy in the solar field. Strap yourself in for Episode 3!Follow us:| Subscribe| Blog| Facebook| Twitter| Instagram| LinkedIn See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In episode two, Tanguy Serra blew our minds with his vast knowledge of leading the biggest solar lender in the nation, the history of solar, and adoption in non-solar states. With Tanguy’s experience from Wallstreet to CIO at Loanpal, we knew we just had to get him on the phone and pick his brain. Take a peek yourself!Follow us:| Subscribe| Blog| Facebook| Twitter| Instagram| LinkedIn See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

For our very first episode of Solar Disruption Theory, we sat down with Mosaic CEO, Billy Parish to talk about humble beginnings, the evolution of solar loan performance and the future of solar energy. With as much knowledge packed into one audio, we really came out of the gate swinging with this first podcast.Follow us:| Subscribe| Blog| Facebook| Twitter| Instagram| LinkedIn See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.