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.

21 Engineering – Driving Innovation in Buildings and People

In this inspiring episode of Energy Speaks Back, I sit down with the brilliant team at 21 Engineering to uncover how they’re redefining the way buildings and people interact. We explore their pioneering work in smart technologies, renewable energy, and lifelong learning — showing how innovation is not just about equipment and systems, but also about empowering the people who use them.

Join us as we discuss real-world examples of sustainable solutions, the importance of collaboration, and the future of energy management in the built environment. Whether you’re an energy professional, a technology enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of our industry, this conversation is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss.

🎙️ Episode 168 – Energy Interconnection: The Backbone of a Resilient Grid

Guest: Mathew Rose | Energy Infrastructure Specialist

In this episode of Energy Speaks Back, I’m joined by Mathew Rose, a seasoned expert in energy infrastructure, for a deep dive into the world of energy interconnectors—the silent enablers of our low-carbon future.

We explore how interconnectors support energy security, grid flexibility, and cross-border energy trading. Mathew shares insights on their strategic role in decarbonisation, the UK’s current and future plans, and what they mean for businesses and energy managers alike.

Whether you’re an energy strategist, policymaker, or consultant, this episode will help you understand why interconnectors are no longer just cables—they’re critical infrastructure for a connected, resilient, and sustainable energy system.

“Why Every Industry Needs a Trade Association? – with Chris Ridge from TICA”

In this episode of B2B Energy Speaks Back, I’m joined by Chris Ridge, Technical Policy Manager at TICA, the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association.

We unpack the powerful role TICA plays in driving the UK’s insulation industry forward—from skills development and workforce support to setting technical standards across the sector.

In our conversation, we discuss:

• The role of insulation in reducing energy waste

• Why trade associations are critical for industry cohesion

• How TICA is influencing the energy and construction sectors

• The future of insulation on the road to net zero

This episode brings fresh perspective to one of energy management’s most underestimated tools: insulation.

🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms.