Co-op Energy Talk

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.

S11E12 - Board Meeting Brief, June 2025

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the June 24th Board of Directors meeting.

S11E11 - Celebrating Community: Incredible Mo’s Partnership with Cherryland

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Communications and Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle sits down with Chris Mohrhardt, owner of Incredible Mo’s, to discuss their 10-year partnership hosting Cherryland’s annual meeting and their inspiring community work. Learn how rural economic development loans helped shape Incredible Mo’s growth and how their unique birthday party project is giving back to local kids who might otherwise go without celebrations. Tune in to hear about the deep ties between local business, community support, and the cooperative spirit that powers it all.

S11E10 - Board Meeting Brief, May 2025

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

S11E9 - Counting Every Voice: A Deep Dive into Cherryland’s Election Process

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland’s Courtney Doyle is joined by Matt Fiala from Survey & Ballot Systems (SBS) to take members behind the scenes of Cherryland’s annual board elections. They discuss how partnering with a third-party ensures a secure, unbiased election—from online voting integration through SmartHub to the hands-off paper ballot process. Learn how your votes are counted, protected, and validated, and why democratic member control remains a core cooperative principle. Whether you're a first-time voter or a seasoned participant, this episode sheds light on the care and integrity behind every Cherryland election.

S11E8 - Board Meeting Brief, April 2025

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the April 21st Board of Directors meeting.