RESTalk
RESTalk, produced by RESNET.us is the best way to stay up-to-date on everything going on in the world of Home Energy Ratings (HERS), including initiatives, standards, marketing, and more. Hosted by building performance veteran Bill Spohn, the show features interviews with the RESNET team and prominent guests from throughout the rating and home building industries, discussing a wide range of topics, current events and new technologies.
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EP74: HERS ratings and the PEG Fannie Mae Green MBS Program with Matthew Cooper
06/21/2021
EP74: HERS ratings and the PEG Fannie Mae Green MBS Program with Matthew Cooper
“We learned that economic growth and environmental protection can and should go hand in hand.” - Christopher Dodd How do the financial investment criteria of ESG- Environmental, Social & Governance – relate to the HERS rating world? What are FANNIE MAE Single Family Green Mortgage Backed Securities and what makes this program so unique? How could such a program help to elevate the recognition of HERS raters and the work they do? At long last, the HERS Index is breaking into the new homes mortgage market! Matthew Cooper from PEG joins us to help explain this program launched by PEG, Fannie Mae, and Ekotrope. The program allows Fannie Mae to package ENERGY STAR Certified New Homes into distinguished socially responsible mortgage securities. This is an important first step in moving toward better mortgages for better HERS Rated homes; this is likely to be a game changer for the industry. Matthew explains the background of this initiative, including timelines, how to participate, and what it means for your rating business. To learn more about the topic you can review the video on demand session (NAV-5) from the RESNET 2021 virtual conference site: or read up at the Fannie Mae site: You can also reach Matthew at [email protected] RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP73: Bill Spohn’s High Performance Home Journey hosted by Laurel Elam
06/07/2021
EP73: Bill Spohn’s High Performance Home Journey hosted by Laurel Elam
“The first step is clearly defining what it is you’re after, because without knowing that, you’ll never get it.” - Halle Berry How does a person deeply engaged in the world of home performance handle matters when it comes to building their own home? When it is “your own” you must strive to see the forest through the trees. What’s it like actually living inside your theories? In this podcast we spin the microphones around the table and welcome guest host, Laurel Elam (RESNET) who interviews Bill Spohn (normally the RESTalk host) on the journey he and Marilyn have taken setting out to build a high performance, likely NetZero, home. Listen in to hear what influences he used in making design and construction decisions. Hear of the goals he and his wife set at the beginning and how close they came to achieving them. Bill openly describes his thoughts on the challenges they encountered and how well the plans worked out. To learn more about the project you can follow Bill’s blog at RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP72: The future of the building industry resides in low carbon buildings with Dan Welch- Bundle Design
05/24/2021
EP72: The future of the building industry resides in low carbon buildings with Dan Welch- Bundle Design
“The details are not the details. They make the design.” - Charles Eames Interest in net zero and low carbon homes is sweeping across the country. What drives customers in some smaller cities to ask for a net zero (plus) home? How can a small builder achieve these customer desires in a city that limits the options to energy retrofits of homes that are up to a century old? In this podcast we chat with Dan Welch founder of Bundle Design Studios – a business that grew out of his Masters work in architecture school. Dan walks the talk, living and working from a net-zero energy, water, and waste home – the first residence in Bellingham Washington which elected to include no water or sewer connections. Dan is driven by strong ethics of environmental and social equity, he enjoys synthesizing client goals, clean aesthetics, and rigorous building science into beautiful and cohesive projects. In 2020 Bundle proudly delivered a home with a HERS score of a -51. Dan shares with us some of the methods that he uses to achieve these low scores, as he takes us on a tour through the way he does business in his market, including factors in customer education, products and skilled labor. To learn more about Bundle Design visit their website: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP71: Joint RESNET ICC HERS Rating Company Membership with Laurel Elam and Laurence Genest
05/10/2021
EP71: Joint RESNET ICC HERS Rating Company Membership with Laurel Elam and Laurence Genest
"The whole point of collaboration is that you give and take from each other, and that’s how you create things that are totally new." - Virgil Abloh There is a logical tie between energy codes and HERS ratings. What is the value proposition for HERS rating companies to be involved with ICC? What qualifications do HERS raters bring to assist code officials? Laurence Genest (ICC) and Laurel Elam (RESNET) join us to describe the role that HERS raters can play in the verification of compliance to Energy Codes. We learn how a RESNET HERS Rating company’s membership in RESNET has now doubled in value. We also cover how this ties in with the IECC/HERS Compliance Specialist designation. To learn more or get engaged to get engaged on this topic you will find Resources available here Rater can see the benefits of this arrangement here: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP70: ONE TREE PLEDGE and RESNET Collaboration with Michael Ziman
04/26/2021
EP70: ONE TREE PLEDGE and RESNET Collaboration with Michael Ziman
"Conservation is a state of harmony between men and the land." - Aldo Leopold Many of us reflect on the beauty and awe of nature. The images of clear skies and clean water are quite powerful. How did these powerful images put a builder on mission to make a difference, one tree at a time? Michael Ziman joins us on the podcast to describe the thoughtful research and personal reflection that drove him to create the One Tree Pledge. The One Tree Pledge is an easy way for anyone (builder, rater, homeowner, etc.) to make a low cost ($1) contribution to offset carbon in the atmosphere using the most natural of methods: planting a tree. Learn more at to see how RESNET will engage with this project by launching a campaign with the goal of planting 300,000 trees to combat climate change by the end of January 2023. The site includes a Carbon Math calculation where Michael shares the total carbon Vs potential offset with trees. You can learn more about Michael's company at . RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP69: Behind the scenes at the 3 millionth HERS rated home with CR Herro (Meritage) and Tim Smith (15 Light Years Foundation)
04/12/2021
EP69: Behind the scenes at the 3 millionth HERS rated home with CR Herro (Meritage) and Tim Smith (15 Light Years Foundation)
"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible" - Francis of Assisi How does the honor of HERS rating the 3 millionth home befall you? Tim Smith and CR Herro have been on a quiet mission of building relationships, honoring commitments, and executing with excellence. Steady as they go. That's how it goes. Join the conversation with CR Herro (Meritage Homes) and Tim Smith (15 Lightyears Foundation) as they discuss went on behind the scenes in the 3 millionth HERS rated home. We learn of their commitment to energy-efficient homes as well the processes involved in achieving this milestone home in Winter Garden, Florida. All levels of builders and raters will learn why their recipe for success has education at its core. To learn more about Tim's company, 15 Light Years Foundation go to: And to learn more about CR's company, Meritage homes go to: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP68 How low can you go? Achieving 2020's lowest average HERS score with Gene Myers - Thrive Home Builders
03/29/2021
EP68 How low can you go? Achieving 2020's lowest average HERS score with Gene Myers - Thrive Home Builders
“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.” - Margaret Mead Winning national housing awards year after year, comes with focused effort. However, the efforts put forth by Thrive Home Builders are NOT focused on winning awards. What are the simple concepts that Thrive executes so well that have put them in such a special group and allowed them to flourish (or thrive)? What advice does Thrive have for builders who wish to start the journey to high performance and even Net Zero homes? Our guest today is Gene Myers who founded GreenTree Homes in the Denver area in 1992, well before green was a thing. Under his leadership the company has grown into the very successful and award winning Thrive Home Builders. Gene has developed this award-winning green building program to meet the highest standards of LEED®, Indoor airPLUS, Zero Energy Ready Homes and Energy Star®. In 2020, Thrive also achieved the lowest average HERS score (26.9) in the country for a builder completing more than 50 homes. Recognized as 2019’s EPA Indoor airPLUS Leader of the Year, Thrive tells potential customers they “can breathe easy knowing their Thrive home was built to the highest health standards with superior air quality.” Gene has created a recipe for success that he shares with us in this conversation. One of the key points is education, first of his team, then of his customer. He uses the resources of programs, and his HERS rater in this continuum of education. To learn more about Thrive Home Builders visit their website: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP67 RESNET Priorities 2021 with Steve Baden
03/15/2021
EP67 RESNET Priorities 2021 with Steve Baden
“Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” - Tony Robbins Each year RESNET develops their list of priorities to tackle. A specific four-step process is used which engages both the board and staff. Where did this process (which started in August 2020) lead to for 2021? How do the essential activities goals and priorities all work together in a cohesive fashion? Steve Baden gives us an overview of the RESNET priorities for 2021. You’ll want to listen in to hear the process used, the outcomes, and the big three takeaways for 2021. RESNET focuses on transparency and credibility in achieving its goals. You can learn more about the activities, goals, and priorities in noted in an easy to digest infographic found here: At the time of the recording the RESNET 2021 virtual conference had yet to occur. You can still log in for register to access well over 100 hours of amazing conference content at this link: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP66 A Conversation with 2021 RESNET Board President, John Hensley
03/01/2021
EP66 A Conversation with 2021 RESNET Board President, John Hensley
“Life is the art of drawing without an eraser.” -John W. Gardner Each year a new President of the RESNET board of directors takes the helm. A President brings their own background and experiences to bear upon the role. How do decades of experience in building, while documenting millions in construction defects, lead someone to take on a leadership role such as this? John Hensley shares with us the priorities as the 2021 Board President for RESNET. He first takes us on a journey of his past career experience to shed light on what drove him to become a rater in the first place and why he has decided it is important to take on this role as president. John also shares how much the blood of construction runs in his family and the changes he has seen over his lifetime in RESNET and in the construction industry in general. Connect with John by email: or via his website: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP65 What is in store for Home Performance: 2020 Election Review with Carl Chidlow & Steve Baden
01/25/2021
EP65 What is in store for Home Performance: 2020 Election Review with Carl Chidlow & Steve Baden
“Leadership is not about the next election, it’s about the next generation” -Simon Sinek 2020 was both a notable and challenging year in so many ways. Beyond everyone learning how to Zoom (and Zoom becoming a verb) the election of 2020 is sure to go down in history. What impact did the 2020 election have on RESNET's future-oriented mission to make the energy use for all homes transparent? (THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED IN MID-DECEMBER 2020) In today’s podcast we are joined by Carl Chidlow, a registered federal lobbyist and Steve Baden, Executive Director of RESNET as they again pull out the crystal ball to discuss what changes may come about in the world of Home Performance as a result of the 2020 Elections. Carl and Steve help us understand the possibilities and probabilities of policy change that may happen with the slim majorities, negotiations and compromise we are likely to see. Learn how there may be possible bipartisan consensus with an infrastructure bill and the belief that much change will come about through executive order and regulations. We also discuss the implications of the recently passed extension of the 45L tax credit for builders. Steve also notes the two new proposals forwarded to the new Administration and Congress. Both proposals encourage the energy use calculation as a factor in mortgage approval process We discuss the cabinet nominees focus on a climate agenda and we learn about the potential impact that Gina McCarthy, the Energy Czar, can have on Home Performance. Carl also gives us his definition of Czar. Carl and Steve describe what they found most surprising as they think back to RESTALK Episode 57 (first aired in September 2020) where we discussed the upcoming election. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP64 Learn about the RESNET 2021 Conference. A New Path To the Future with Steve Baden & Emma Bennett
01/11/2021
EP64 Learn about the RESNET 2021 Conference. A New Path To the Future with Steve Baden & Emma Bennett
“Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity. -Charles Mingus How in the world can you deliver an engaging conference in these pandemic times? What kind of steps and measures must you take to make it awesomely simple and fun for attendees and exhibitors? This kind of challenge requires creativity. In todays’ podcast we are joined by Emma Bennett and Steve Baden to learn about the creative and exciting changes in store for the RESNET 2021 Conference. Since early in 2020, the team at RESNET has been planning this virtual event, actually an on-line experience. This professionally executed, dynamic conference will be like two events under one roof: - A 3-day, 3-hour live streaming event with key issues, from February 22 to 24, 2021. - Plus, a library of about 100 prerecorded, 1-hour technical sessions housed in a virtual library accessible all through 2021! There will be four session themes, really something for everyone: New frontiers of RESNET Building science, water efficiency and health Steering energy programs and policy Navigating finance and real estate Exhibitors in the virtual exhibit hall will be able to focus on and reach specific types of attendees. There’s a chance for more attendees to come with bulk pricing for 5 or more attendees from the same organization. There will be lots of fun events: work out classes, cocktail classes, on line chat forums for networking and more. The most active participants will be awarded prizes! Please take note of the early bird deadline of January 15, 2021 Learn more by visiting the Conference website: Or emailing or RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP63 State of RESNET QA with Laurel Elam, Scott Doyle and Billy Giblin
12/14/2020
EP63 State of RESNET QA with Laurel Elam, Scott Doyle and Billy Giblin
“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” -Andy Warhol Like so many businesses, activities, and organizations, 2020 has been a year of unprecedented adaptation. In which ways have RESNET Quality Assurance (QA) procedures been adapted and changed this year? What new techniques, methods, and procedures are being used to maintain the QA function? We welcome back RESNET’s QA Team - Laurel Elam, Billy Giblin, and Scott Doyle for an interactive overview of the QA team’s activities during the past year. Much of the discussion focuses on how the pandemic has affected the QA Team’s oversight of providers in 2020. We learn of the reactions to and the feedback received considering all of the flexibility allowed by RESNET’s emergency policies. The team will give an overview of the QA standard changes that are anticipated to be coming in 2021 specifically addendum 30 to RESNET's standards. We close with some a feeling of pride for the broader housing industry which has remained so resilient. The RESNET QA Team remains available for technical assistance and technical questions at the following email addresses: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP62: Using HERS H2O to achieve the WaterSense Label for homes with Jonah Schein & Ryan Meres
11/30/2020
EP62: Using HERS H2O to achieve the WaterSense Label for homes with Jonah Schein & Ryan Meres
“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” -Loren Eiseley Wikipedia defines water as is an inorganic, transparent, tasteless, odorless, and nearly colorless chemical substance which provides no calories or organic nutrients. Yet water is vital for all known forms of life. What role can builders, raters and providers play in the protection of this unique natural resource? Seasoned water efficiency professional Jonah Schein from the US EPA joins Ryan Meres, Program Director at RESNET on the podcast to give us updates on the EPA WaterSense and HERS H2O programs. We delve into how HERS H2O is used to achieve the WaterSense Label as well as discuss a recent RESNET/EPA Pilot Program for WaterSense v2.0. We learn how the WaterSense Version 2.0 pilot has developed the necessary feedback on how to best support the building industry whilst ensuring that the needs of home buyers are met. In the course of our discussion Ryan and Jonah reveal how raters, providers and builders can and should get involved in rating homes for water efficiency. Ryan covers the eligibility, criteria and steps involved in becoming a HERS H2O Rater or Provider including the online training. Tapping into Jonah’s extensive background, we also explore the importance of water efficiency and conservation efforts. For more information on the RESNET HERSH20 program, visit: You’ll find information on the EPA’s WaterSense program at RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP61: Why big builders will request more HERS ratings with Ryan Meres
11/09/2020
EP61: Why big builders will request more HERS ratings with Ryan Meres
“Data is the most valuable asset in the world.” -Brittany Kaiser What does the builder market data tell us about trends in the adoption of HERS ratings? What is the breakdown of companies that are recording ratings? What role do the larger builders play in all of this? We welcome back Ryan Meres, Program Director at RESNET to share with us some insights into why RESNET believes bigger builders will be requesting more HERS ratings in the future. With nearly 240,000 HERS ratings recorded in 2019 by a little more than 6,000 home building, remodeling and development companies (50% more companies than 2018) Ryan describes some key trends that are on the move. As he draws our attention to the top 20 builders we learn that they ordered more than 104,000 ratings which accounts for nearly 43% of all ratings last year. Ryan also notes that many of the top 20 are publicly traded companies who are moving towards reporting on their environmental impact (i.e., CO2/greenhouse gases and water). HERS ratings can play a role in that reporting via Standard 301 and water ratings). This falls in the category of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) investing or “sustainable investing” which seek long-term impact positive impact on society, environment and the performance of the business. In our conversation, Ryan reveals these and more stories told by the data. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP60: Resilience, sustainability and high-performance homes with Ryan Colker of ICC
10/26/2020
EP60: Resilience, sustainability and high-performance homes with Ryan Colker of ICC
“Resilience is all about being able to overcome the unexpected. Sustainability is about survival. The goal of resilience is to thrive.” -Jamias Cascio Governments are struggling to prepare for hazards and other disaster events they face, Communities cannot sustain in a chronic response mode. What goes into making a community event disastrous?What planning tools or programs can be used to mitigate the impact? How do building codes and other mitigating strategies allow them to get ahead of the situation? We are joined today by Ryan Colker, VP of Innovation at the International Code Council who spends part of his time looking across the building industry to imagine how codes will be used in the future as well as the present. He brings to bear his diverse background on his work at the ICC. We discuss the intersection of the many disciplines and activities in the building community which need to come together to insure resilience. As the co-lead for the Resilient Building Coalition, Ryan gives us many insightful perspectives. For example, he shares the three core aspects necessary for housing to sustain approaching wildfires. Disasters are shocks that tend to make the headlines, yet stresses (homelessness, a major employer leaving the community, climate change, etc.) are constantly grinding away to exacerbate shocks when they occur. Learn more from the two white papers on how building codes impact and support resilience as part of the ICC resilience tool kit. Ryan encourages HERS raters to learn to show the value of resilience strategies, most of which harmonize with health, safety and energy efficiency. Ryan also shares with us some important links: The Insurance Institute Fortified program (), Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH: , and Alliance for National & Community Resilience: () You can learn more about International Code Council at: www.icc.org RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP59: Essential Market Trends to Grow your Business with Sara Gutterman, Green Builder Media
10/12/2020
EP59: Essential Market Trends to Grow your Business with Sara Gutterman, Green Builder Media
“I think things happen for a reason.” -Dave Davies Changes in consumer buying patterns and preferences are a constant topic in every market, especially housing. How are the consumer sentiments changing due to disruptive technologies, yet alone the changes brought about in in a world dealing with a pandemic? What are some of the new areas that building professionals and manufacturers need to learn about and act on? Today’s guest, Sara Gutterman, has some perspectives to share with us. You see, Sara lives on a mountain, both physically and metaphorically. From her home in Hinsdale County Colorado, where she is a County Commissioner, to the mountain of data that come from her entrepreneurial activities with Green Builder Media, Sara will outline for us some trends, as well as permanent changes that are impacting the building market. Learn which demographic is the number one influencer is in the building market and what they are looking for. Sara also provides insights into how the pandemic is influencing both the residential and commercial building markets. We discuss modular and panelized construction techniques as well as ADUs and a brilliant idea on how to repurpose excess commercial space. Stick around to the end to hear the about two key trends that need our attention. You can learn more about Green Builder Media at www.GreenBuilderMedia.com RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP-BONUS COVID -19 Update with Steve Baden and Cardice Gray-Howard
10/05/2020
EP-BONUS COVID -19 Update with Steve Baden and Cardice Gray-Howard
“We’re all working together; that’s the secret.” -Sam Walton COVID-19 continues to impact nearly every area of life these days. What is RESNET is doing to manage the situation? In summary it involves three things: Staying patient. Being open to ideas. Maintaining the dialog. Today we are joined by RESNET leadership: Cardice Gray-Howard, deputy director and Steve Baden, Executive Director, for a quick update on the impact of COVID-19 on RESNET activities. Hear what changes have been put in place for the organization as well as changes made for raters and builders. Learn which changes are likely to be temporary and which may become permanent. Find out what criteria will trigger the lifting of emergency procedures. To learn more. Visit the Tune in as field practitioners share their experiences a recorded webinar series: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP58: The U.S. Housing Market Through the Looking Glass with Clayton Traylor, LBA
09/28/2020
EP58: The U.S. Housing Market Through the Looking Glass with Clayton Traylor, LBA
“To be a carpenter or a builder or a home inspector, you have to have that kind of visual brain where you can sort of imagine something being taken apart.” -Nick Petrie Even before the impact of the pandemic, the housing market was in a challenging time. The home building industry is certainly complicated in the physical world with all the components, materials and contractors that need to come together. What additional complexities have arisen in the last 6 months? What do builders and raters need to know to be better prepared? Clayton Traylor joins us on the podcast to shed some light on the deceptively complicated world of home building. He will help us take apart and see all the pieces involved. From his position as VP for State and Regulatory Affairs at the Leading Builders of America, Clayton has a great handle on the numbers, trends, demographics and more as LBA represents 20 of the nation’s largest builders. Clayton helps peek into the looking glass of what the largest home builders see on the road ahead and lends advice on where you need to be positioned to succeed. You can learn more about The Leading Builders of America at: www.LeadingBuilders.org RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP57: 45L - The Federal Tax Credit for Builders: An Update with Carl Chidlow & Steve Baden
09/14/2020
EP57: 45L - The Federal Tax Credit for Builders: An Update with Carl Chidlow & Steve Baden
“You do the best you can with what’s thrown at you, then you try again.” -Mario Andretti What does the Highway Bill, or HR 2 have to do with builders and raters? What has happened to the “builders tax credit” over the course of the last few months and what is store as we head towards and through the upcoming presidential election? Better known as 45L, Section 45L(c)(1)(A) and (B) of the US Internal Revenue Code (developed by David Goldstein of the NRDC), offers a $2,000 federal tax credit to builders for each energy efficient home they build and sell. As you may know the credit has lived an unsteady life, being on again and off again over the years since its inception, making it difficult for builders to act on this with certainty. It’s important to realize that the trillion dollar Moving Forward package proposed by the Democratic House Caucus contains a proposal to amend the 45L tax credit, and create a performance based path, tied to the IECC. Join us as we discuss 45L with Carl Chidlow, a registered federal lobbyist and Steve Baden and learn of the history, perspectives and future opportunities of this tax credit. Hear about the over 300 RESNET small business owners who signed a letter to Congress in support of this and how you can get involved. RESNET has created an advocate toolkit found here: with the tools and guidance on how to contact your member of Congress and promote issues important to the membership. While COVID-19 makes in person meetings almost impossible Congressional staff are still working remotely and have adapted to using conference calls and technology (eg ZOOM) to engage with constituents. Environmental stewardship is going to be a touchstone issue for the next four years. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP56: RESNET 2021: A Virtual Conference
08/24/2020
EP56: RESNET 2021: A Virtual Conference
“You change your business plan to anticipate and adapt to changes in the marketplace.” -Jon Feltheimer It seems like everyone is talking about change lately spurred in a large part by the global pandemic. Rolling with the changes, staying on mission, continuing to work towards your vision are no mean feats. How is the team at RESNET adapting the annual conference to deliver the high-quality educational content and social interactions while looking out for the health and safety of all involved? The team at RESNET had some tough decisions to make regarding the 2021 Conference. After polling the community, the RESNET staff and board found that a virtual conference in 2021 is best for the safety and convenience of attendees to still get quality information. Emma Bennett and Steve Baden join us to walk us through the inputs, research and decision-making leading up the delivery of the 2021 conference in a virtual format. We will hear about the changes and some unique benefits of a virtual event including overcoming the common “problem” for in-person attendees of not being able to see all sessions. The in-person social interactions will morph into unique and interactive networking opportunities. Fittingly, the theme of the 2021 RESNET Conference is “A New Path to the Future”. Stay tuned for more details. NOTE: Traditional in-person events are planned for the 2022 RESNET Conference in Austin, TX, 2023 RESNET Conference in Scottsdale, AZ and 2024 RESNET Conference in Atlanta, GA RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP55 A Roadmap to Creating New Business Opportunities for HERS® Raters with John Gillett
08/10/2020
EP55 A Roadmap to Creating New Business Opportunities for HERS® Raters with John Gillett
“Difficulties mastered are opportunities won.” -Winston Churchill Disruptive trends exist in every segment of commerce. Residential construction is no exception. Between changing customer needs and demands, new materials, changing codes, changes in the workforce, and an increased demand for sustainability, all the pieces of the machine are in motion. Stepping back from the complexity and seeing patterns in the chaos is trait of many successful small businesses. What patterns and opportunities are emerging when you step back? With the analytic prowess of a former accountant, the entrepreneurial skills gained in Silicon Valley, and 18 years’ experience in the building trades, our guest today, John Gillett, shares with us a broad roadmap of the new business opportunities that are emerging for HERS raters. John very neatly weaves together several topics we have covered in past episodes of RESTalk so we can see where the big picture of business is headed for raters: Episodes 3 & 50: HERS H2O Episode 20: ANSI/RESNET/ACCA Standard 310 Episodes 35 & 53: Energy Code Compliance Episode 36: Building Information Modeling (BIM) If you are interested in learning more about John’s work go to www.QualityBuilt.com RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP54 Meet the Chairs of the RESNET Standards Development Committees
07/27/2020
EP54 Meet the Chairs of the RESNET Standards Development Committees
“Make no mistake about it: Change is hard, but change is necessary.” -Lori Lightfoot As organizations grow, systems, policies and procedures develop. Grasping the complexities of an organization can become daunting. Especially if you are new or “at the edges of contact” with the organization. It may be easy to feel disconnected. Organizations like RESNET offer the ability to be part of the conversation, insisting that you have the right to speak up and offer the ability for you to make change. We are pleased to be joined today by three guests, Sharla Reid from the Energy Smart Institute, Gayathri Vijayakumar from Steven Winter Associates, and John Hensley from BPS Consultants. They are the chairs/change makers of three RESNET Standards Development Committees or SDCs. Sharla chairs the SDC 200 which oversees RESNET’s education, training assessment, and certification standards and amending the standards. The SDC 300 is chaired by Gayathri where she oversees RESNET’s technical standards related to the inspections, testing, and calculations that impact an energy rating and amending those standards. John chairs the SDC 900 where he oversees RESNET’s quality assurance and sampling technical standards and amending the standards. This talented team breaks down the scope and processes involved with standards development while dispelling some of the myths and misconceptions they have run across in their roles. If you are interested in participating in a task group or joining an SDC please fill out the form at this link RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP53 The HERS Rater’s role in Energy Code Compliance with Chris McTaggart (The BER) and Ryan Meres (RESNET)
07/13/2020
EP53 The HERS Rater’s role in Energy Code Compliance with Chris McTaggart (The BER) and Ryan Meres (RESNET)
“How come it’s given you the code? Someone up there likes me.” -Cathica and The Doctor from Doctor Who (S01E07) What does the future world of residential construction look like? What do opportunities lie for HERS raters in a code world? Yes, podcast listener someone likes you and will share the code. Chris McTaggart (The BER) and Ryan Meres (RESNET) join us on the podcast to detail out the HERS Rater’s role in Energy Code compliance. The International Code Council now offers a new combination designation, the IECC/HERS Compliance Specialist. To qualify you must be a current RESNET HERS Rater and hold the Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner Certification (79). We learn how this designation combines the energy code knowledge of code officials with the energy efficiency knowledge of HERS Raters to provide more powerful advice in energy plan review and inspection. This new credential leverages the strengths of both RESNET and IECC to increase the number of qualified personnel available for evaluating energy code compliance and home energy performance. They explain how an IECC/HERS Compliance Specialist demonstrates their competence in energy performance measurement and energy code proficiency. In areas where jurisdictions face resource constraints, these certified specialists can supplement the work in this dual role. Topics we cover include HERS rater involvement with duct and envelope leakage testing and the R405 performance path compliance. Both Chris and Ryan cover a few on the myths and misconceptions they have encountered along the way as this designation has developed. For more info you can review the topic on the IECC website: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP52 Data Trends in HERS Rated Homes- RESNET’s 2019 report With Ryan Meres (RESNET)
06/29/2020
EP52 Data Trends in HERS Rated Homes- RESNET’s 2019 report With Ryan Meres (RESNET)
“Go out and collect data and, instead of having the answer, just look at the data and see if the data tells you anything.” -Steven Levitt With over 20% of all new homes being built in the US receiving a HERS rating, this repository of data can allow important trends in residential construction can be discerned. What does this data speak to in terms of the types of homes and types of buyers? Ryan Meres joins us on today’s podcast to walk us through what the data in the new Trends in HERS Rated Homes report tells us. We get a walk-through of national, state and even city trends which cover the basic characteristics of the rated homes and even the building components. The report concludes with a first-of-its-kind look at the demographics of buyers of HERS rated homes based on a 2019 study conducted by the mortgage industry giant Freddie Mac. For more info you can reach review the study at: . Or if you wish to reach Ryan you can email him at We also discuss the advantages granted to members of the RESNET Suppliers Advisory board, to learn more visit this page on the RESNET site: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP51 Emergency Virtual Inspection and Alternative Testing Protocols With Scott Doyle (RESNET)
06/15/2020
EP51 Emergency Virtual Inspection and Alternative Testing Protocols With Scott Doyle (RESNET)
“Difficult times disrupt your conventional ways of thinking and push you to forge better habits of thought, performance and being.” -Robin S. Sharma In this time when the novel Coronavirus has impacted so many aspects of our daily lives in both personal and business aspects we often hear of the “new normal”. In the case of home energy ratings, where the object of the work is a home in the field, often with others from the trades present, the “new normal” has to be carefully thought out and developed. And most importantly, it must iterated with feedback from the field in order to perform at an acceptable level. Scott Doyle joins us on today’s podcast to detail out the temporary protocols that have been established for emergency virtual inspections. He and the team at RESNET have field many questions and received valuable feedback as the procedures have been iterated. We learn about the development process of the default test values and applicability of using these optional protocols. To keep up with the very latest on this important topic go to the RESNET homepage at resnet.us and click on the RESNET COVID-19 updates link at the top. You can reach Scott at [email protected] RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP50 Introducing the RESNET Water Efficiency Rating System HERSH2O with Mark Johnson (ICC) and Jacob Atalla (KB Home)
06/01/2020
EP50 Introducing the RESNET Water Efficiency Rating System HERSH2O with Mark Johnson (ICC) and Jacob Atalla (KB Home)
“If you can't measure it, you can't improve it.” -Peter Drucker Over the last decade, what Americans pay for water and sewer service has increased three times faster than inflation or the price of food. How can builders and homeowners get a handle the amount of water being used without some kind of practical and usable metric for both new and existing homes? Join us as we plunge into the depths of HERSH20, RESNET’s new water efficiency rating system. Both of our guests today, Mark Johnson from ICC and Jacob Atalla from KB Home, were intimately involved in the development of this Standard 850. Listen in as we learn how the standard addresses water efficiency and why ICC decided to collaborate with RESNET in the development of this standard. We learn how the index score is determined and what the home is being rated against. Our guests also describe why a builder might want to get a HERS H2O rating on their homes. To learn more, view the slide deck on this topic from the RESNET 2020 conference by going to this link: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP49 New applications for HERS skills- Isolation Room Monitoring with Matthew Cooper of PEG
05/11/2020
EP49 New applications for HERS skills- Isolation Room Monitoring with Matthew Cooper of PEG
Human beings are very good at adapting to what happens -John Hurt Building science is building science. Science doesn’t care. It just is. Applications for a HERS Rater’s knowledge of building science are out there. Sometimes where you’d least expect them. Recorded in April 2020, today’s topic is tuned in to the current pandemic, perhaps, in an unexpected way. Join us as we speak with Matthew Cooper, Senior Vice President at PEG, LLC about how his company is supporting the healthcare community by providing third-party isolation room monitoring. Matthew starts with an overview of PEG’s 22-year history and how the company evolved into the multifaceted organization it is today, including becoming a HERS Rating Provider and RESNET 100,000 Homes Club member. We discuss the PEG team’s previous experience in the healthcare setting and how they are now providing independent monitoring of hospital isolation rooms, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) rooms and Emergency Rooms where suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients are being cared for. As to the point that science doesn’t care, monitoring includes differential pressure, temperature and relative humidity which are all key factors in isolating airborne infection patients for the protection of both healthcare workers and other patients. These parameters should be immediately recognizable to the HERS rater. For question or follow up please reach out to Matthew at [email protected] RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP48 The Impact of Recent Energy Code Changes on HERS® Raters and Builders with Ryan Meres
04/27/2020
EP48 The Impact of Recent Energy Code Changes on HERS® Raters and Builders with Ryan Meres
Changes and progress are very rarely gifts from above. They come out of struggles from below. -Noam Chomsky The code development process is complex and time consuming. Yet the results drive much of the work done by raters. Insights into this process from a knowledgeable guide are immensely valuable. Join us as we speak with Ryan Meres, Program Director at RESNET, about the changes coming in the 2021 edition of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). He reviews for us the key results of the latest changes that will impact HERS Raters and the builders they work with. Beginning with a quick overview of the code development process, we move into a discussion of the incorporation of the 2019 versions of Standards 301 and 380. We get into a good discussion over the details on what is happen to the ERI including an insider’s explanation of the voting process and why the Performance Path seems to be the trend. Cool note: Ryan was a co-author of the original ERI. You will find some details on the differences between the ERI and HERS index scores in Ryan’s blog post here: Or use this short link: We wrap the discussion looking some of the next tasks for Ryan in his role as Program Director at RESNET For question or follow up you can always reach Ryan at [email protected] RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP47 Meet the 2020 RESNET Emerging Leadership Council Fellows
04/13/2020
EP47 Meet the 2020 RESNET Emerging Leadership Council Fellows
Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action. -Peter Drucker As RESNET looks towards the future, significant effort is being placed in recruiting and retaining members of the broader RESNET community. There is no better way to do this than invite people to “the table”. The RESNET Board has done this in a big way by creating the Emerging Leadership Council Fellowship which deeply engages people new to the industry. Joins us as we chat today with the three 2020 ELC fellows: Aaron Hope (Southern Energy Management, Raleigh, NC), Rachel LaMantia (EnergyLogic, Berthoud, CO) and Manon Shankle (Virdiant, Richmond, VA) Come listen as each of the fellow shares with us their background, experiences and passion for their work. One common theme we heard was their unique responses and reactions to being named 2020 Fellows. They share with us their reflections and actions taken. Learn more about this year’s fellows by following this link RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP46 Special Episode RESNET COVID-19 Update with Steve Baden and Cardice Gray-Howard
03/30/2020
EP46 Special Episode RESNET COVID-19 Update with Steve Baden and Cardice Gray-Howard
The big picture doesn’t just come from distance; it also comes from time. -Simon Sinek RESNET recognizes the COVID-19 pandemic will have a huge impact on HERS® Raters and Rating Providers. The RESNET Board Executive Committee has swiftly stepped in to make important decisions. RESNET is ever more diligent about how business is being done and working together with members of the HERS Industry to navigate through this. It will take time. RESNET Executive Director Steve Baden and Deputy Director Cardice Gray-Howard join us today in this special episode to discuss their reactions to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the actions that have been taken. Various steps have already been put in place such as modifications to QA testing and Payment terms for rating fees. Other options are also being considered. For complete and up to date information follow the “RESNET COVID-19 Updates” link at the top of the RESNET.us homepage. RESNET has put in place a dedicated email address ( ) that will go directly to the Quality Assurance Team for QA questions and concerns. This email address is for specific questions to the QA team regarding remote QA, reporting, etc. RESNET believes in the power of our tight knit community to get through this situation stronger and more united over time. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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