Central Connection Podcast

As we head into the heart of storm season, preparation becomes more important than ever. Legendary Alabama meteorologists James Spann and Josh Johnson cover severe weather awareness, summer storm preparedness, and the steps families can take now to stay safe throughout June and beyond! 

How do communities create a strong, sustainable workforce for the future? It starts with connection. On this episode, we explore how education and industry work together to build a seamless workforce development pipeline. From early exposure in the classroom to technical training and higher education opportunities, the conversation highlights how partnerships with the local rural electric cooperat...

In this episode, we head straight to the front lines with the guys who keep the lights on: linemen! Whether you’re familiar with the world of co-op linemen or hearing their stories for the first time, this episode sheds some light on the people behind the power and the real-life experiences that shape their work in the field. 

When winter weather strikes, restoring service takes teamwork, grit, and a willingness to go wherever help is needed. From icy lines to miles of damaged fiber, we sat down with CAEC linemen and Central Access fiber technicians who recently traveled to Mississippi to provide mutual aid following Winter Storm Fern. The group chats about the unique partnership between electric and broadband crews, ho...

Every great relationship has an origin story, and ours started with a simple mission: to serve the community. Electric co-ops were founded to bring power to rural areas when no one else would. Years later, that same cooperative spirit asked a new question: What about fiber internet access? And just like that, broadband became the perfect match: built on the same values of service, innovation, and...

Grassroots advocacy may sound like a big, complicated term — but at its heart, it’s simply members using their voices. In this episode, we sit down with former Alabama Congresswoman Martha Roby to break down what grassroots advocacy really means, why it matters, and how member involvement helps shape decisions. From legislative priorities to real-world examples, you’ll hear how everyday voices cre...

In this special Christmas episode, we take inspiration from the classic tale A Christmas Carol to explore energy efficiency and safety lessons from the past, present, and future. From outdated habits that can create safety risks to simple, smart choices that make a real difference today, this episode offers practical guidance to help keep your home merry, bright, and powered safely! 

This November, we're celebrating Career Development Month by exploring how strong careers and strong communities go hand in hand. We sat down with two of CAEC's own to talk about how rural areas can create opportunity, support local talent, and build a brighter future for the next generation. Whether you're a co-op employee, a community member, or someone curious about the future of...

They’re the first voices you hear, the helping hands behind every question, and the heartbeat of our mission — our Customer Service Representatives! In this special episode, released in honor of Customer Service Appreciation Week, we’re shining a spotlight on the dedicated team members who embody the cooperative difference every single day. 

Politics in action, state pin trading, historic monuments, and friendships that last a lifetime? Now that's what I call Youth Tour! Join us as we chat with two former delegates about their experiences in Montgomery & D.C. and what being part of Youth Tour meant to them. 

From building hydroponic gardens to creating immersive learning environments in the form of a coffee shop, join us as we chat with two local educators on how CAEC's Bright Ideas Grant program empowered them to bring these impactful learning experiences to life! 

Annual Meeting, the role of the Board of Trustees, co-op principles -- this episode covers it all! You hear us say it all the time- without you, there is no us, and nothing exemplifies this concept more than Annual Meeting and our annual trustee election. We're joined by Board Chairman, Mark Presnell, and Board Vice Chairman, Mark Gray, to chat about what it means to them to serve on CAEC&apo...

In this special episode, legendary meteorologist James Spann joins us to break down everything you need to know about staying safe when storms threaten. From the myths that put people at risk to the simple steps that could save your life, James shares his decades of experience, no-nonsense advice, and trademark calm in the chaos. Whether you’re a seasoned Southerner or new to storm country, this e...

On this special episode of the CCP, we're highlighting Effective Communications Month by talking with the voices behind the co-op's messages — communicators! They're the storytellers, crisis managers, and trusted bridges between co-ops and the communities they serve. Join us as we talk with veteran communicators about what it takes to keep members informed, engaged, and empowered ev...

As we mark 2025 — the International Year of the Co-op — we take a deep dive into the essential role rural electric cooperatives play in bringing power to remote communities. On this episode, we sit down with Josh McGhee, Director of Member Marketing & Engagement with Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, to chat all things people, power and purpose! 

Powering through storms, swamps and snakes to keep the lights on! Step into the boots of these linemen as they share wild tales from the field—rescuing storm-ravaged communities, wrangling iguanas and trudging through alligator-filled swamps. Join us as we talk with two of CAEC's own linemen as well as two from our sister co-op Pioneer Electric! This episode of the CCP captures the grit and h...

Whether it's exploring the vital role politics plays in shaping the energy landscape for rural communities or learning the proper parameters of a filibuster, we've got plenty to talk about! Join our guests Sean Strickler and Todd Stacy as they discuss these topics and many more on this episode of the CCP. 

Valentine’s Day may be over, but love is still in the air—just in a different way. We’ve talked about knowing when to break up with your hot water heater, but now we’re looking at other parts of your home that might need some TLC. Efficiency and comfort go hand in hand—let’s make sure your home isn’t giving you the cold shoulder! 

Ever wonder how your lights stay on even when demand surges? Or why energy prices fluctuate? On this episode of the CCP, we’re diving into the high-stakes balancing act of energy supply and demand with special guest Damon Morgan from our G&T PowerSouth! 

Central Access...it's what everyone is talking about! What is it? How did it begin? What's next? We look at this and more with our special guests Chris Montgomery, Vice President of Central Access, and Jimmy Gray, Vice President of Engineering & Operations. 

We all love the high-speed connectivity and reliability of Central Access, but do you know what all goes into making sure internet runs from the lines to your home? Join us as we talk with three members of our Central Access crew to get the nitty gritty details of how fiber works, as well as an update on upcoming construction and installation timelines! 

Did you know that October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month? The CCP recently sat down with two of our very own tech gurus to learn the ins and outs of staying secure in today's cyber world, as well as how to recognize and avoid common cyber scams. 

Concern for Community is one of the seven core cooperative principles rural electric co-ops live by. With October being Co-op Month, we sat down with CAEC's own Jeremy Hicks and Michael Kelley to discuss how they and other co-op employees took this principle to heart during their recent trip to Guatemala as part of the NRECA's International program. 

The CCP had the amazing opportunity to sit down with WSFA Chief Meteorologist Josh Johnson for a local look at weather preparedness. From the 2024 hurricane outlook and bolt from the blue lightning to the history of weather sirens, we talk about a plethora of weather information for our neck of the woods and how you can help keep you and your family safe. 

While it's true we appreciate our linemen every day, April 18th officially marked National Lineman Appreciation Day. To keep the celebration going, the Central Connection Podcast sat down with two of our very own linemen to find out what drew them to this field and why they do what they do. So join us and as always, #ThankALineman!