In this episode, we explore how one founder is tackling one of the biggest bottlenecks in clean energy—and what it means for the future of real estate.

I’m joined by Owen, a clean tech entrepreneur who’s redefining what’s possible in sustainable housing. After managing $60 million in clean energy projects for a Fortune 500 company and launching a successful energy services firm, Owen noticed something most people miss: the problem isn’t the technology—it’s that we’re not deploying it fast enough.

That realization sparked the creation of Shine—a company now on pace to decarbonize 200,000 apartment units using solar energy. In this conversation, Owen breaks down how he's making clean energy work in one of the most complex industries, what most real estate investors are getting wrong, and why the future of sustainability is all about scale, speed, and simplicity.

If you care about innovation, real estate, or climate solutions that actually work, this one’s for you.

🌐 Connect with Owen:

Website: https://www.getshine.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/owenmadsenbarrett/

Follow Kelley:

Website: www.entrepreneurialelevation.ca

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelleybeveridge/

As entrepreneurs, we spend so much time growing our mindset, our strategy, and our skills — but the truth is, none of it works without a regulated nervous system and a body that can keep up.

Your vagus nerve, your stress levels, your energy, your sleep, your focus, and even visceral fat all play a massive role in how you show up in your business.

If you’re curious about the plant-based, one-ingredient daily tincture I use to support my own health, stress, clarity, and performance — I made a simple page that walks you through what it is and why it’s been such a game-changer for me.

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https://entrepreneurialelevation.ca/phix-with-kelley-864600

Disclaimer

The Entrepreneurial Elevation Podcast and content posted by Kelley Beveridge is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user's own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Transcript

[00:00] Owen reflects on quitting a job he hated in finance and setting the intention to align his work with climate and the outdoors.

[04:10] He shares how 18 months of no income tested him while launching his first company in energy efficiency—and how one $50K grant changed everything.

[07:45] Owen explains how traditional real estate investors overlook the financial potential of solar—and how that led to starting Shine.

[10:25] He talks about his strengths, the importance of hiring the right people, and how knowing your limits accelerates growth.

[13:00] “Don’t ask for advice from people who haven’t built what you want to build.” Owen talks about protecting your vision.

[17:40] On building a profitable business that also benefits the planet—and why purpose and money don’t have to be at odds.

[21:15] Shine’s model: Using existing apartment building rooftops to generate solar income and reduce emissions at scale.

[27:00] Owen learned to speak the investor’s language: “Don’t lead with climate. Lead with ROI.”

[32:50] He reveals how the commercial solar space is ripe for disruption—with outdated methods and zero tech innovation.

[38:20] Final wisdom: “Ask better questions. Be annoyingly persistent. The world needs people who won’t take no for an answer.”