Less Talk, More Action

Joel Cesare & Owen Barrett
  • 5.0 (7)
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The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future.

  1. 1D AGO

    How to Sell Decarbonization to People Who Don’t Believe in It

    In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen welcome Ryan Yetzer, founder of Full Scope Asset Optimization, to talk about decarbonizing real estate without the ESG fluff. They debrief the IAM ESG & Decarbonizing Real Estate Forum, and debate whether AI will actually move the needle on decarbonization or just speed up “the 2% of bullshit at the beginning.” Ryan shares why he left a 17‑year career in institutional real estate to start his own shop, how he sells decarbonization as a financial and asset‑value play (not a “woke” initiative), and why basic projects like LED retrofits and building optimization are still massively underused. Key takeaways: follow the money and asset leakage; simplify instead of over‑report; stop confusing measurable E (energy/returns) work with abstract S and G; real progress comes from projects that actually get built, not just reported; and so much more.  Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Welcome to the Episode and Nashville Conference Setup (1:02)Why Current ESG Conferences Feel Broken (2:15)Debate: “AI Is Not Going To Save Us” vs Joel’s Defense Of Decarb AI (4:45)Climate Movement, Six-Person Panels, and Calling Out Industry Timidity (7:30)Introducing Ryan Yetzer and His Mission With Full Scope Asset Optimization (10:28)Leaving Corporate America and The Reality Of Starting His Own Firm (13:45)Selling Decarbonization as a Financial Play, Not “Woke ESG” (16:31)Materiality, Investor Demands, and the Reporting Hamster Wheel (19:47)Asset Leakage, Easy Wins Like LED Retrofits, and Why They Still Don’t Happen (24:02)Dashboards No One Uses and The Gap Between Data and Action (27:46)Ideal Clients, Smaller Owners, and Reframing “Sustainability” as Saving Money (30:30)Startup Reality Check: Sales Cycles, Revenue Timelines, and Industry Slowness (36:04)What Gives Ryan Hope About the Future of Decarbonization (40:12)The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at lesstalkmoreaction.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    43 min

  2. FEB 4

    The REAL Reason Your Home Isn’t Decarbonizing (and How to Fix It)

    In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen sit down with Nate Adams, the “House Whisperer,” to discuss the realities of home decarbonization, electrification, and energy efficiency. Covering personal stories, contractor challenges, the importance of insulation and air sealing, hybrid HVAC solutions, and consumer education, the conversation gives practical insight into making real progress on sustainable home upgrades. Listeners will take away actionable tips on prioritizing upgrades and understanding the hurdles and opportunities in creating comfortable, efficient homes. Don’t miss this episode! Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Welcoming Nate to the Show and Previewing Today’s Topic (0:57)Challenges in Home Decarbonization Projects (4:41)Discussing Insulation and Contractor Issues (8:11)Nate’s Background and Industry Journey (10:11)Transition From Contracting to Consulting (16:40)Recruiting Young People Into the Trades (19:16)Joel’s Ongoing Heat Pump Struggles (19:56)Technical Challenges: Diagnosing Leaky Houses (23:29)Air Sealing and Insulation Course Discussion (26:41)Evaluating Old Homes Versus New Construction (28:03)Detailed Insulation Materials Debate (36:41)HVAC Sizing and Hybrid Solutions (47:54)Final Thoughts on Progress and Optimism in Climate Action (55:57)If you’re interested in Nate Smith’s course, use MOREACTION to get a 25% off. Learn more at natethehousewhisperer.com.  The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at lesstalkmoreaction.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    59 min

  3. JAN 28

    Why the Next Generation Demands Impact, Not Just Returns

    In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen sit down with Deyl Kearin of DLP Capital to discuss how real estate can become a force for good through Purpose Driven Investments and community-focused action. They explore industry trends, the challenges of authenticity versus “talk” in sustainability, and the benefits of focusing on attainable housing and long-term stewardship. Key takeaways for listeners include the value of innovative impact investing, the importance of building thriving communities, strategies for fostering generational change, and actionable advice for making a meaningful difference in real estate and beyond. Don’t miss this great conversation! Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Show and Previewing the Topic (0:56)Previewing the Nashville Conference and Industry Hopes (3:35)Conference Disappointments and Call for Action (6:37)Deyl Kearin’s Background and DLP Capital’s Mission (8:25)Impact Investing and Tenant Retention Strategies (12:41)Generational Shifts in Impact Investing Attitudes (17:51)Founding Story and Vision Behind DLP Capital (19:34)Deyl’s Personal Journey and Adventure Mindset (22:38)Industry Challenges and Evergreen Fund Advantages (28:40)Defining Attainable Housing and Final Optimistic Thoughts (34:28)The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at lesstalkmoreaction.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    37 min

  4. JAN 21

    Corporate Net Zero: Shift or Sham? The REAL 2026 Predictions

    In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen welcome Katie Neck, founder of Sustained Futures, as she shares lessons from Formula 1, explains the urgent need to close the global “green skills gap,” and discusses effective ways to upskill both corporate teams and young people for climate action. The conversation covers the evolution of sustainability in business, the pitfalls of overreliance on jargon and carbon offsets, and the power of entrepreneurial action and optimism in facing climate challenges. Listeners will gain insights into fostering practical climate solutions, the importance of accessible green education, actionable strategies for creating real impact in their communities and organizations, and so much more.  Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with Katie Neck (0:58)Optimism in Climate and Skills Gap (3:07)Katie’s Path From F1 to Sustainability (6:06)F1’s Move Toward Sustainable Fuels (8:56)F1’s Environmental Strategies Discussed (11:47)Shift From Consulting to Entrepreneurship (14:22)Launching Sustained Futures (15:34)Winning First Client and Early Growth (18:29)Expanding Into U.S. Market (21:11)ESG Approaches Across Regions (23:12)Football and Building a Sustainability Brand (25:06)Procurement and Employee Upskilling Focus (27:03)Connecting Youth Education to Projects (29:48)Barriers to Hands-On Learning in Schools (31:26)Virtual Impact Academy Launch (36:05)Rethinking Public Versus Private Education (38:29)Alternative Learning Models Emerging (41:07)Hope for the Future and Call to Action (42:37)The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at www.lesstalkmoreaction.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    44 min

  5. JAN 14

    How Millennials Will Finally Afford Homes

    In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen welcome sustainability leader Anthony Guerrero to explore the challenges and opportunities in green building and urban housing. Anthony serves as the COO of Mindful MATERIALS and is the Founder of Sustainaprise. The conversation covers converting vacant office buildings into affordable residential spaces, navigating complex building regulations, and the benefits of co-living models for younger generations. Anthony also details the Mindful Materials Common Materials Framework, aiming to standardize and streamline sustainable building practices. Key takeaways include the urgent need for practical, customer-driven solutions in sustainability, the importance of holistic approaches that prioritize both people and the planet, and optimism about the growing movement toward action and transparency in the industry. Don’t miss this great conversation! Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode (1:02)Introducing Anthony Guerrero and Episode Focus (3:40)Discussing Housing with No Windows and Regulatory Challenges (7:26)Podcast Goals and Learning from Founders (11:13)Mindful Materials and Office Conversion Concept (15:09)Deep Dive into Technical Barriers to Office Conversions (19:14)Regulations and Realities of Living Spaces Without Windows (23:09)The Co-Living Model and its Potential for Young Homeownership (27:41)NYC Office-to-Residential Case Study and Tax Incentives (31:15)Mindful Materials Framework’s Industry Impact (35:37)The Certification Maze and Building Owner Motivations (39:23)Is Green Building Succeeding? Grading the Movement (43:31)The Need for Holistic Solutions Beyond Decarbonization (47:41)Optimism and Ways Listeners Can Take Action (51:01)The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at www.lesstalkmoreaction.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    53 min

  6. 12/23/2025

    Solar's Wild Ride: Triumphs, Scams & 2026 Predictions

    In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen welcome reflect on a transformative year in clean energy and real estate, discussing the ups and downs of the solar industry, the effects of policy shifts like the Inflation Reduction Act, and the current landscape for building decarbonization. The conversation highlights the challenges of stalled funding, the need for ambitious yet practical sustainability goals, the realities of implementing energy efficiency projects, and the importance of economic fundamentals in commercial real estate. Listeners will take away honest insights into what drives meaningful progress in sustainability and business, and an invitation to take bold action in the face of uncertainty. Don’t miss this great conversation!  Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Welcome to the Episode and Taking Action (0:05)Solar Industry Growth and Challenges (3:08)AI, Cambio, and Driving Client Action (6:10)Reflections on Green Funding, Inflation Reduction Act, and Project Stalls (9:04)Market Realities, Electricity Prices, and Industry Optimism (12:10)Setting Ambitious Goals and Google’s Ethos (15:10)Decarbonizing Buildings: Lessons, Spark Gap, and Net Zero (18:10)The Role of AI, Shifting Corporate Commitments, and Market Uncertainty (21:10)Brown vs. Green Buildings, GRESB Scores, and Incentive Flaws (24:16)Closing Remarks, Holiday Wishes, and Podcast Outlook (27:15)The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at www.lesstalkmoreaction.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min

  7. 12/17/2025

    Stop Scaring Our Kids and Start Building Their Future

    In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, it’s a solo episode as Joel challenges conventional climate narratives by exploring why fear-based messaging may backfire and proposing bold alternatives to build real impact. Drawing from recent debates and his own industry experience, he critiques overemphasis on carbon metrics and argues for redirecting climate funding into tangible efforts like affordable housing, energy cost reductions, and regenerative agriculture. Key takeaways include inspiring and empowering young people, scrutinizing unproductive climate spending, prioritizing solutions that deliver measurable benefits to both people and the planet, and so much more.  Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Introduction and Podcast Purpose (0:56)Joel’s Background in Climate and Real Estate Sustainability (3:18)Discussion of Bill Gates’ Remarks and Climate Threat Framing (6:20)Why Fear-Based Storytelling Persists in Climate Advocacy (8:42)Redefining Impact: Housing, Energy Affordability, and Regulation (10:29)Downsides of Building Performance Standards for Housing (12:42)Youth Climate Anxiety and Inspiring Empowerment (14:02)Strategic Funding: Decarbonizing With 5% Capital (16:36)Investing in Regenerative Agriculture and Ocean Restoration (19:18)The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at www.lesstalkmoreaction.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    23 min

  8. 12/10/2025

    Why AI is Your New Business Superpower in Sustainability

    In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen are joined by AI and sustainability pioneer Kevin Surace. The conversation dives into how AI is transforming solar energy projects, building efficiency, and the broader challenges of sustainability, from retrofitting icons like the Empire State Building to overcoming market barriers and upfront costs. Listeners will gain key insights on leveraging proprietary data for better solar analyses, the importance of realistic optimism in addressing climate change, practical advice for adopting innovative technologies in traditional industries, and so much more. Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode (0:56)Reconnecting With Kevin and the Power Of AI (3:21)Creating Smarter Solar Layouts Using AI Data (6:00)AI’s Role In Content Creation and Workflow Automation (9:41)Kevin’s Sustainability Journey and the Empire State Building Project (12:45)Overcoming Market Barriers with Smart Retrofits (16:05)Breaking Down Upfront Costs and Payback Challenges (20:27)Engineering the Empire State Building Retrofit (24:07)The Science of Energy Efficiency Windows (27:46)The Future of Energy and The Rise Of Nuclear Power (34:00)Addressing Environmental Policy and Realistic Optimism (44:14)Change Management and Tackling Industry Skepticism (52:13)Advice for Building Successful AI Tools in Clean Tech (58:21)Hope for the Future and Parting Thoughts (1:01:29)The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at www.lesstalkmoreaction.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 4m
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5
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About

The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future.

Information

  • Creator
    Joel Cesare & Owen Barrett
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    59
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Less Talk, More Action - All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    Less Talk, More Action

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