The SunCast Story, with Nico Johnson

What do the Peace Corps, Trina Solar, and 800+ podcasts have in common? One man: Nico Johnson.

This week on The Energy Show, we're bringing you a rare behind-the-scenes conversation with the voice of the solar industry—Nico Johnson, founder of SunCast. If you’ve ever listened to a solar podcast or worked in clean energy, you’ve felt his impact.

From climbing rooftops in the early days of residential installs to building one of the most influential media platforms in clean energy, Nico shares how he went from solar hustler to host of SunCast, a show that’s become a must-listen for solar professionals worldwide. And spoiler alert: it didn’t happen overnight.

Whether you're a solar newbie or seasoned exec, this conversation will leave you inspired, informed, and maybe even ready to hit record yourself.

👉 Tune in to hear how Nico built a clean energy empire—and what’s next for the man behind the mic.

🎧 Listen now to this week's Energy Show.

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Transcript Below:

Podcast Summary: Nico Johnson on Storytelling, Solar Growth & the Media Model

In this episode of The Energy Show, Barry Cinnamon sits down with Nico Johnson — founder and host of the SunCast podcast — for an inspiring and in-depth conversation about clean energy, storytelling, and the evolution of solar media.

Key Highlights:

• Nico’s Clean Energy Origin Story: Nico’s journey into solar began after serving in the Peace Corps and being impacted by the devastation of a hurricane in Guatemala. Inspired by a presentation on solar’s humanitarian potential, he chose purpose over predictability — turning down a career in the music industry to help scale clean energy solutions worldwide.

• Creating SunCast: In 2015, Nico launched SunCast to spotlight the people and companies transforming the energy sector. What started as a side project to share real conversations and industry insights became a storytelling platform trusted by top solar CEOs and innovators.

• Pulling Back the Veil: SunCast’s mission is to demystify how the solar industry works — including utility-scale solar, C&I, and finance — so professionals can make informed decisions and find their place in the clean energy transition.

• The 3-Legged Media Model: Nico explains how he built SunCast Media using a classic media framework:

  1. Content – Free, accessible insights via podcasts and video.

  2. Directory (Access) – Deeper, exclusive knowledge and trusted industry relationships.

  3. Events – The upcoming SunCast Summit (Oct 1–3, Denver) will bring 100 top CEOs together to share insights off the record.

• Authentic Sponsorships > CPMs: Rather than sell by download count, Nico partners with sponsors like Enphase to co-create authentic, story-driven content. These “pioneer series” episodes help brands elevate their voice while connecting with real installers and decision-makers.

• Advice to Industry Professionals: Build trust, master storytelling, and focus on community. And remember: the best marketing doesn’t feel like marketing — it feels like listening in on a great conversation at a bar.

• Book Recommendations:

  • Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks – A guide to powerful storytelling.

  • Sales Pitch by April Dunford – A must-read for positioning your brand.

  • All the Time in the World by Lisa Broderick – A mindset shift on how we view time.

• Fun Fact: When Nico’s not podcasting, you’ll find him rock climbing, kite surfing, and being a “dad-crobat” on the trampoline with his three kids.

Final Thoughts:Nico and Barry share a deep commitment to accelerating the energy transition through transparency, education, and passion. If you're working in (or want to work in) clean energy, SunCast and The Energy Show are your go-to guides for what's next.

🎧 Listen to Part 2 for a deep dive into solar policy, tax credit changes, and how the industry is adapting.

👉 Available now at energyshow.biz