Lignite Energy Council Podcast

Fueling the Future - Inside North Dakota’s Coal Industry

Episode 24: North Dakota State Senator Dale Patten 04/18/2025

Episode 24: North Dakota State Senator Dale Patten North Dakota State Senator Dale Patten joins the podcast to share his insights on the future of North Dakota’s energy industry and his perspective as a key policymaker in the legislature. Topics include coal, critical minerals, CO₂ pipelines, and balancing growth with landowner rights. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/36225705

Episode 23: Mac McLennan, CEO of Minnkota Power Cooperative 03/12/2025

Episode 23: Mac McLennan, CEO of Minnkota Power Cooperative In this episode of the LEC Podcast, we talk with Minnkota Power CEO Mac McLennan about energy policy, carbon capture, and the future of coal in North Dakota. With decades of experience, McLennan shares insights on industry challenges, regulatory shifts, and economic opportunities. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/35655995

Episode 22: Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) 02/20/2025

Episode 22: Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) In this episode, we sit down with Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak, North Dakota’s newest member of the federal delegation. She shares insights from her first two months in Washington, D.C., discussing her work on energy policy, protecting North Dakota’s natural resources, and advocating for a reliable electric grid. Tune in to hear her perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead for the state and the nation. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/35370750

Episode 21: Dave Glatt, Director of ND Department of Environmental Quality 02/20/2025

Episode 21: Dave Glatt, Director of ND Department of Environmental Quality In this episode, DEQ Director Glatt joins to discuss environmental regulations affecting the lignite industry. He highlights North Dakota’s strong compliance record, challenges with federal policies and the importance of state-led oversight. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/35367975

Episode 20: Lignite Plant of the Future, Tyler Hamman EERC 01/24/2025

Episode 20: Lignite Plant of the Future, Tyler Hamman EERC This episode of the Lignite Energy Council Podcast explores the "Lignite Plant of the Future," with EERC guest Tyler Hamman discussing lignite's economic importance, regulatory challenges, and advanced technologies to ensure a thriving future for lignite in North Dakota. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/34987595

Episode 19: CO2 Education Program, Brent Bogar AE2S 01/17/2025

Episode 19: CO2 Education Program, Brent Bogar AE2S This episode features Brent Bogar, who discusses his role in advancing carbon capture education efforts in North Dakota. The conversation explores the state’s carbon capture initiatives, economic benefits for various industries, public engagement strategies, and the importance of addressing regulatory and safety concerns to support informed decision-making and economic growth. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/34900450

Episode 18: Kay LaCoe, VP of Public Affairs for the Lignite Energy Council 12/27/2024

Episode 18: Kay LaCoe, VP of Public Affairs for the Lignite Energy Council In this episode, Kay Lacoe, Vice President of Public Affairs for the Lignite Energy Council, discusses the results of recent statewide polling on public opinion regarding the coal industry and carbon capture technology in North Dakota. The conversation highlights strong bipartisan support for the use of carbon capture to maintain jobs and reduce emissions, as well as the significant role the lignite industry plays in the state’s economy. The polling data underscores North Dakotans' preference for reliable, affordable energy sources and their support for state efforts to challenge federal regulations that could negatively impact the coal industry /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/34633375

Episode 17: Daryl Hill, Lignite Historian 12/19/2024

Episode 17: Daryl Hill, Lignite Historian In this episode, we meet Daryl Hill, a lignite historian, who discusses the early history of lignite mining in North Dakota, from discoveries by Lewis and Clark to the transition from small, labor-intensive operations to mechanized mining in the 1920s. The episode highlights the significant economic and community impact of the lignite industry, including job creation, generational benefits, and the growth of coal-country communities. Daryl also emphasizes modern reclamation efforts, technological advancements, and the importance of preserving the history and legacy of lignite through education and public engagement. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/34539885

Episode 16: Kevin Lawrence, Chief Meteorologist 10/31/2024

Episode 16: Kevin Lawrence, Chief Meteorologist In this episode of the LEC Podcast, we sit down with Chief Meteorologist Kevin Lawrence to explore the science behind weather patterns and the art of forecasting. Kevin shares insights into the tools and techniques used to predict North Dakota’s unique weather, along with highlights from his educational journey and experiences in meteorology. The conversation also delves into answering basic weather related questions along with the topic of climate change, examining its potential implications for the energy industry. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33684387

Episode 15: Public Service Commissioner Randy Christmann 10/29/2024

Episode 15: Public Service Commissioner Randy Christmann Commissioner Randy Christmann joins to discuss his extensive background in North Dakota’s energy sector and his insights into the future of energy policy and regulation. Commissioner Christmann shares his unique perspectives on the evolving electricity markets, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities for coal within them. He also delves into promising advancements in coal’s role, including its potential in rare earth minerals, the development of carbon capture technologies, and the integration of data centers. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33675047

Episode 14: Brandon Rust, Owner of Bokashi Earthworks 10/22/2024

Episode 14: Brandon Rust, Owner of Bokashi Earthworks In this episode, we sit down with Brandon Rust, owner of Bokashi Earthworks, to explore the innovative ways he plans to utilize lignite coal in the development of non-toxic, nutrient-rich fertilizers for organic farming. Brandon shares insights into the importance of sustainable agriculture, the growing demand for organic farming solutions, and how cutting-edge NASA technologies are being integrated into domestic fertilizer production using lignite coal. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33569627

Episode 13: Julie Fedorchak, Public Service Commissioner 10/17/2024

Episode 13: Julie Fedorchak, Public Service Commissioner Commissioner Fedorchak joins for a live recording at the Lignite Energy Council’s Annual Meeting. She shares her journey to becoming a Public Service Commissioner, the unique challenges she has faced in shaping energy policy, and her perspective on the critical role of coal in today's energy market. She emphasizes the importance of proactive advocacy for the coal industry and discusses the need for stronger voices to ensure coal remains a competitive player in an evolving energy landscape. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33505542

Episode 12: Congressman Kelly Armstrong of North Dakota 10/16/2024

Episode 12: Congressman Kelly Armstrong of North Dakota Congressman Kelly Armstrong joins the podcast to discuss his views on energy policy which he has learned during his time as a State Senator, Congressman and Republican Nominee for Governor. He discusses his background, political career, advocacy for North Dakota's energy and agricultural industries, regulatory challenges, energy policy, carbon capture technology, legal battles, campaign for governor, and message to coal industry workers. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33490252

Episode 11: Mike Heger, President of BNI Mine 09/27/2024

Episode 11: Mike Heger, President of BNI Mine In this episode, we chat with Mike Heger, President of the BNI Mine, about his vision for the future of the lignite industry. Mike discusses the recent achievement of mining 200 million tons, showcasing the hard work and creativity in this field. We talk about the important role the lignite industry plays in providing energy and supporting local communities. Mike also shares insights about the diverse workforce at BNI Mine and the organization’s rich history. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33231877

Episode 10: Wes Engbrecht, Capital Electric Cooperative 09/17/2024

Episode 10: Wes Engbrecht, Capital Electric Cooperative In this episode, Wes Engbrecht, Communications and Public Relations Manager at Capital Electric Cooperative in Bismarck, North Dakota, discusses the crucial role of rural electric cooperatives in delivering reliable baseload power to more than 19,000 members. He explains how community-driven co-ops were established to provide affordable electricity to rural areas and highlights the unique challenges they face, including maintaining grid stability in remote regions during severe weather events. Wes also shares insights into the operations of Capital Electric and the co-op’s contribution to rural economic development. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33096082

Episode 9: Michael Bell, Host of Dakota Mornings Radio Show 09/13/2024

Episode 9: Michael Bell, Host of Dakota Mornings Radio Show In this episode, Michael Bell, the dynamic host of the Dakota Mornings Radio Show, joins us to share insights into his early career and the pivotal moments that led him to transition to Washington, DC, where he became deeply involved in Republican politics. He reflects on his extensive experience as a lobbyist, advocating for key issues at both state and national levels, before ultimately returning to North Dakota to take the helm of the popular Dakota Mornings show. Throughout the conversation, Michael offers valuable reflections on his journey, the challenges he has overcome, and the lessons he’s learned across both media and political arenas. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33048577

Episode 8: Geoff Simon, Executive Director of the Western Dakota Energy Association 09/11/2024

Episode 8: Geoff Simon, Executive Director of the Western Dakota Energy Association In this episode, Geoff Simon, Executive Director of the Western Dakota Energy Association (WDEA), discusses the economic opportunities and challenges facing North Dakota's coal and oil industries. He highlights the vital role these sectors play in local economic development, from job creation to infrastructure growth, while addressing regulatory and market challenges impacting the region. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/33002002

Episode 7: ND Commerce Director of Economic Development & Finance Rich Garman 08/30/2024

Episode 7: ND Commerce Director of Economic Development & Finance Rich Garman In this episode, Rich Garman, Director of Economic Development & Finance at ND Commerce, discusses his role in advancing North Dakota’s economy. He explains why the state is an ideal spot for business investment, emphasizing the energy sector’s vital role in attracting new opportunities. Rich also highlights the growth potential of the lignite industry and how it’s positioned to drive future economic development and innovation in the region. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/32810987

Episode 6: Lignite Research Council Technical Advisor Mike Holmes 08/08/2024

Episode 6: Lignite Research Council Technical Advisor Mike Holmes In this episode, Mike Holmes, Technical Advisor to the Lignite Research Council, explores the council's impact on North Dakota's coal industry. He covers topics such as funding, technology advancements, emissions reduction efforts, and the various potential uses of lignite coal. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/32502202

Episode 5: LEC Education and Membership Director Retha Mattern 08/08/2024

Episode 5: LEC Education and Membership Director Retha Mattern In this episode, Retha Mattern, Education and Membership Director at LEC, emphasizes the significance of educating teachers about North Dakota's lignite coal industry and ensuring balanced perspectives in the classroom. She also offers an overview and insights from the 38-year-old LEC Teachers Seminar, exploring its impact and evolution over the years. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/32491342

Episode 4: ND Industrial Commission Deputy Director Reice Haase 08/08/2024

Episode 4: ND Industrial Commission Deputy Director Reice Haase In this episode, NDIC Deputy Director Reice Haase offers a thorough overview of the North Dakota Industrial Commission, founded in 1919. He delves into the commission’s unique history of steering industrial development in the state, including its oversight of various state and industry partnership research councils, a state bank, and a state mill and elevator. Additionally, Reice covers the commission's regulatory role, innovations, the history of lignite, research funding, carbon capture initiatives, and energy policy. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/32491317

Episode 3: North Dakota State Representative Anna Novak - July 11, 2024 07/29/2024

Episode 3: North Dakota State Representative Anna Novak - July 11, 2024 In this episode, North Dakota State Representative Anna Novak shares her inspiring journey from grassroots activism to becoming a legislator. She delves into her passionate efforts to save Coal Creek Station from closure, a critical mission that ultimately propelled her into the political arena. Novak provides an insider’s perspective on the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way, offering listeners a unique glimpse into the intersection of activism and legislative work. The conversation also underscores the crucial role that sound energy policy plays in ensuring reliable baseload electricity generation. Novak articulates how these policies are vital for the continued success and sustainability of the coal industry, highlighting the broader economic and environmental implications. Through her story, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the significant impact that dedicated individuals can have on shaping the future of energy policy and the coal sector. Tune in to hear Representative Novak’s compelling narrative and her insights into the importance of robust energy policies for the coal industry’s future. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/32334527

Episode 2: Minnesota State Representative Pat Garofalo - June 25, 2024 07/25/2024

Episode 2: Minnesota State Representative Pat Garofalo - June 25, 2024 In this episode, Minnesota State Representative Pat Garofalo discusses Minnesota's energy policy and its societal impacts. Highlighting the shale gas revolution, Garofalo explains how it has transformed energy production and reduced reliance on imports. The conversation addresses how polarization and special interest groups hinder effective energy policy, with specific attention to environmental activism's influence. They explore Minnesota's carbon-free energy goals and the challenges of balancing reliability and cost. The discussion also touches on how Minnesota's energy policies affect North Dakota's coal industry, emphasizing the legal and economic conflicts arising from differing regulatory approaches. The episode concludes with a discussion on electric vehicles, AI's future energy demand, and the need for fact-based policy decisions to ensure America's energy leadership. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/32297002

Episode 1: Environmental and Energy Lawyer Mike Nasi - June 21, 2024 07/25/2024

Episode 1: Environmental and Energy Lawyer Mike Nasi - June 21, 2024 In this episode, LEC host Jonathan Fortner and environmental and energy lawyer Mike Nasi discuss the EPA's new regulations impacting North Dakota's coal industry. They critique the EPA's carbon rule and its unrealistic timelines for carbon capture technology, emphasizing the negative effects on the US power sector. The conversation highlights the tension between federal regulations and state flexibility, the importance of elections in shaping environmental policies, and North Dakota's efforts in carbon capture. The episode concludes with concerns about the EPA's overreach threatening grid stability and economic competitiveness. /episode/index/show/f8339e45-76bd-4db8-8712-837cf4aea659/id/32296977

Lignite Energy Council Podcast

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