SE01E10 - From Intern to Inspiring CEO with Mike Fuller of Berkeley Electric Cooperative

SE01E10 - From Intern to Inspiring CEO with Mike Fuller of Berkeley Electric Cooperative

Author: Sara Orellena October 23, 2025 Duration: 22:47

From cutting rights-of-way at 18 to CEO by 35, Mike Fuller of Berkeley Electric Cooperative joins host Sara Orellana to unpack a three-decade rise, the mentors who shaped it, and the mindset that “when opportunity comes, it’s too late to prepare.” He also explains why he is pursuing a PhD at Clemson to bridge research and practice, and what humility and continuous learning look like in the C-suite.

Inside the cooperative model, Mike details how member ownership, a focus on safe, reliable, affordable power, and measurable givebacks drive community impact, including returning nearly $8 million to members and supporting programs like backpacks and lunch buddies. He shares why “no one does it alone,” how he builds trust across every role, and why complacency is the enemy of service. Practical leadership, servant heart, real-world impact.

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 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

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Ever wondered what the actual road looks like for those who have built something meaningful? The Route to Success isn't about abstract theories or glossy highlight reels. Instead, it digs into the granular, often messy details of real business journeys. Each conversation strips back the polished finish to reveal the pivotal decisions, the unexpected detours, and the hard-won lessons learned along the way. You'll hear founders, innovators, and seasoned operators recount the moments that truly defined their path-not just the triumphs, but the setbacks that reshaped their strategies. This podcast operates on the belief that the most valuable maps are drawn from lived experience, not just theory. It’s for anyone curious about the substance behind the story, offering candid reflections and practical insights that are rarely discussed in formal settings. Tune in for authentic dialogues that explore how diverse routes can lead to a common destination of achievement, providing a more nuanced and human perspective on what it takes to navigate the complex landscape of modern business.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 36

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