Co-op Energy Talk

S12E9 - Checking In On Your Co-op

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk we're asking the question: "How’s the co-op doing?"

Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson sits down with Board President Gabe Schneider for a big-picture conversation about where Cherryland stands today and where we’re headed next. From financial strength and system upgrades to long-term planning and future investments, they unpack the work happening behind the scenes to keep power reliable, rates competitive, and members at the center of every decision.

S12E8 - Board Meeting Brief, April 2026

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the April 20th Board of Directors meeting.

S12E7 - Hard Hats and Hot Takes with Cherryland Lineworkers

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, we’re celebrating Lineworker Appreciation Month with a behind-the-scenes chat with two of our lineworkers, Brad Norton and Kyle Griffin. We're covering everything from what a typical day looks like to how they prepare for storms. And we couldn't miss the opportunity to get a few hot takes with a round of rapid fire questions -- including whether they'd prefer to take on one giant squirrel or 100 tiny ones. 

S12E6 - Board Meeting Brief, March 2026

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the March 23rd Board of Directors meeting.

S12E5 - Why FEMA Matters

You might remember – about a year ago northern Michigan was hit with a devastating ice storm. Trees were coated in ice like glass, power poles and trees were snapping like twigs, and entire communities were without power for extended periods of time. While Cherryland wasn't directly impacted, other Michigan co-ops were. Now they're working through the process of applying for FEMA assistance. In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and Michigan Electric Cooperative Association President and CEO John Kran dive into why FEMA matters before, during, and after a storm.

To let your local legislators know you support legislation aimed at improving FEMA's current processes click here: https://voicesforcooperativepower.com/femareform/

S12E4 - Board Meeting Brief, February 2026

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the February 23rd Board of Directors meeting.

S12E3 - Cherryland's Drone Inspection Program: A New Perspective

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle is joined by Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson and Communication & Controls Field Engineer Zach Endres to talk about how Cherryland is using drone technology to better serve its members. Together, they explore how drones help crews inspect power lines more safely and efficiently, improve reliability, and respond more quickly after storms. Rachel and Zach also discuss how new tools like this fit into Cherryland’s long-term commitment to safety, innovation, and keeping costs in check. Tune in to learn how a bird’s-eye view is helping keep the lights on across northern Michigan.

S12E2 - Board Meeting Brief, January 2026

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the January 19th Board of Directors meeting.

S12E1 - More Ways to Save: Inside Cherryland’s Energy Waste Reduction Programs

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle sits down with Cherryland Electric Cooperative’s Energy Use Advisor, Tammy Haworth, to break down Energy Waste Reduction (EWR) and what it means for members in 2026. They walk through the new state mandate, explain how savings are measured, and highlight the programs Cherryland designed to turn compliance into real member value. From expanded rebates and a new online storefront to DIY home energy assessments and added support for income-qualified members, this conversation covers the tools available to help members save energy and money. Tune in to learn how Cherryland is making energy efficiency more accessible than ever.

S11E22 - Board Meeting Brief, December 2025

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