Co-op Energy Talk

S11E22 - Board Meeting Brief, December 2025

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the December 15th Board of Directors meeting.

S11E21 - Board Meeting Brief, November 2025

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the November 17th Board of Directors meeting.

S11E20 - The Co-op Difference: How Capital Credits Come Back to You

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson sits down with Board Chair Gabe Schneider to unpack one of the most unique benefits of co-op membership, Capital Credits. Together, they explain what Capital Credits are, how Cherryland decides when and how much to return, and why this year’s $500,000 retirement reflects both strong financial stewardship and the cooperative spirit. Tune in to learn how Cherryland balances investing in reliability and facilities with returning value directly to members, proving once again that being part of a co-op truly pays off.

S11E19 - Board Meeting Brief, October 2025

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the October 27th Board of Directors meeting.

S11E18 - Celebrating Co-op Month: Meet the People Behind Cherryland

In this special Co-op Month episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle highlights the people who make Cherryland Electric Cooperative unique. Hear from some of Cherryland’s newest team members, including Adam, Brandi, Blake, Jeff, and Michelle as they share what drives their work and why being part of a member-owned cooperative matters. From keeping the lights on during storms to ensuring efficiency, safety, and strong collaboration across departments, this conversation shines a light on the dedicated employees who power our communities every day.

S11E17 - Board Meeting Brief, September 2025

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the September 22nd Board of Directors meeting.

S11E16 - By the Numbers: What Cherryland’s KRTA Metrics Reveal

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle sits down with Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and CFO Brad Pavwoski to break down the co-op's Key Ratio Trend Analysis (KRTA) and why it matters to members. From financial health and operational efficiency to system reliability, KRTA metrics give Cherryland a clear picture of how the co-op stacks up nationally and locally—and how decisions made today impact the future. Learn how Cherryland keeps costs lean, manages growth, and delivers some of the most reliable power in the country, all while preparing for the challenges ahead.

S11E15 – Breaking Down MEAP: New Charges, New Opportunities for Members

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle talks with Cherryland’s Sonya Sias and the Salvation Army’s Patty Steele about changes to the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP). Starting in September, members will see a new $1.25 monthly charge on their bills. Learn what this means for Cherryland members, how to apply for assistance, and why it’s important to reach out early if you need help.

S11E14 - Board Meeting Brief, July 2025

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the July 28th Board of Directors meeting.

S11E13 - Behind the Scenes of Energy Policy: What It Means for Cherryland Members

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle welcomes Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) President and CEO John Kran to discuss the critical role rural electric cooperatives play in energy policy and advocacy. They dive into how Cherryland ensures members have a seat at the table—from local community efforts to statewide and federal advocacy—and explain key issues like FEMA funding after recent storms, the importance of permitting reform, and the impact of federal legislation on rural co-ops. Tune in to learn why advocacy matters, how Cherryland and MECA work together to protect rural energy interests, and how members can get involved to make their voices heard.