Thanks for tuning into The Zenergy Podcast! On today’s episode, Karan sits down with Pete Schork, Principal at Broadscale Group. Pete and Karan start off with a fun lightning round of questions leading into his role at Broadscale, how he sources investment opportunities, and an explanation of Broadscale’s mission: “Disruption for good.” They discuss how Broadscale balances the “disruption” part of their mission while ensuring their investments drive positive outcomes, Pete shares examples of companies they have invested in that have driven positive outcomes, including M-KOPA and Arcadia, and they talk about Broadscale’s unique model of working with corporate partners to source deals. Karan and Pete discuss red flags young investors should be aware of, what magic ingredient helps climate startups thrive, how startups can pivot when things aren’t going as planned, and the soft skills Pete looks for in great team members. They conclude with the markets Pete has his eye on right now, his thoughts on policy amidst the upcoming election, and the advice he would give his younger self.
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Listen to The Zenergy Podcast:
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Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-zenergy-podcast-climate-leadership-finance/id1556215421
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Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro
0:53 - Welcome
2:30 - Lightning round - Broadscale’s theme song, which historical figure Pete would have join Broadscale
6:30 - The growth of solar power over the last 10 years
8:50 - Pete and Andrew’s (working for Green Order) first meeting
11:25 - How Pete and Andrew began sourcing investment opportunities
12:50 - How does Broadscale ensure positive outcomes
13:50 - M-Kopa
17:20 - Arcadia
21:00 - The benefits of working with Broadscale Group
22:45 - Broadscale Group is unique
23:55 - Corporates that Broadscale Group is engaging with
24:45 - How to be an effective climate investor
28:17 - Red flags and warning signs young investors should be mindful of
30:30 - The “magic ingredient” that helps climate start-ups thrive
32:50 - Via Transportation and the importance of pivoting
36:00 - Soft skills that make a good team
39:20 - Exciting upcoming projects
41:00 - How does the current political landscape impact Broadscale Group
44:00 - Career advice to young Pete
Credits:
Editing: Desta Wondirad, Wondir Studios
