RESTalk

Bill Spohn
  • 5.0 (13)
  • Business News
  • Updated Bimonthly

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.

  1. 1d ago

    EP155 5 Million HERS Ratings: What This Milestone Really Means (July 2026)

    QUOTES from the episode: "We're not just checking boxes. We're helping builders build better homes." – Matthew Cooper "The conversation needs to shift from price per square foot to value per square foot." – Steve Byers "Professionalism, curiosity, and partnership are what make great HERS Raters." "Five million homes is impressive, but it's the quality behind those ratings that really matters." Five million HERS-rated homes is more than a milestone. It represents decades of collaboration between builders, HERS Raters, Rating Providers, manufacturers, and RESNET® to improve the quality, comfort, efficiency, and durability of America's homes. Bill Spohn is joined by Marra Ingram of PEG, whose routine field inspection became the official five millionth HERS® Rating, along with PEG COO Matthew Cooper and EnergyLogic CEO Steve Byers to reflect on what this achievement says about the industry's past and future. The discussion explores how dramatically the HERS Rating process has evolved. Early raters performed only final inspections with relatively simple software, while today's professionals navigate increasingly sophisticated building assemblies, energy codes, digital tools, and quality assurance requirements. Matthew and Steve describe how Rating Providers have grown alongside the industry, managing hundreds of thousands of homes while developing advanced scheduling, automation, and data systems to keep pace with modern construction. The conversation also highlights the human side of building science. Marra shares how her Air Force construction background prepared her for a career built on technical expertise, professionalism, and builder relationships. Together, the guests discuss why successful HERS Raters are trusted partners rather than inspectors, how the industry can attract the next generation of talent, and why helping consumers understand the value of high-performance homes may be the next great challenge after reaching five million ratings. LinkedIn Profiles for our guests: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevebyers/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-cooper-peg/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/chamarra-i-b14275196/ To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

  2. Jul 13

    EP154 Every Drop Counts: The Evolution of HERSH2O® (June 2026)

    "Water efficiency is moving from a nice feature to a development necessity." "HERSH2O® helps turn water conservation into something builders can measure, verify, and communicate." "Water is a precious resource—and unlike energy, we cannot simply produce more of it." Water efficiency is becoming an increasingly important part of homebuilding, particularly in regions facing drought, rising tap fees, and development restrictions. In this episode of RESTalk, Bill Spohn speaks with Ryan Meres and Jacob Atalla about the continued evolution of HERSH2O® and the expansion of the standard to include multifamily housing. Ryan explains how HERSH2O® evaluates both indoor and outdoor water use, including fixtures, appliances, irrigation, landscaping, and emerging strategies such as graywater recycling. He also discusses how the rating works alongside a traditional RESNET® HERS® rating and supports qualification for the EPA WaterSense label. Jacob shares the builder's perspective, explaining how water availability can affect land acquisition, permitting, infrastructure costs, and customer value. Together, the guests make the case that water efficiency is no longer merely an environmental consideration—it is becoming an important operational, financial, and market issue for builders and raters. Jacob's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobatalla/ Ryan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-meres-58977110/ The US EPA WaterSense study we mentioned: Assessing Water Use WaterSense Labeled Homes Quantifying Savings https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-08/ws-Journal-AWWA-2022-Assessing-WaterUse-WaterSense%E2%80%90Labeled-Homes-Quantifying-Savings.pdf   To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

  3. Jun 8

    EP153 How Energy Codes Really Get Made, and Why Raters Should Have a Seat at the Table (May 2026)

    QUOTES from the episode: "The people closest to the work often have the clearest view of what needs to change."   "Codes do not become practical until field experience finds its way into the conversation."   "Better data leads to better codes, and HERS® Raters are sitting on some of the most useful data in the industry."   "The future of energy codes will be shaped not only in committee rooms, but also in crawlspaces, attics, and blower door tests." In this episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn welcomes Nathan Kahre of the National Association of Home Builders, Alex Smith of the International Code Council, and Kris Stenger of ICC for a practical discussion on the 2027 IECC, the emerging 2030 framework, and how energy codes move from model language to real-world adoption. Together, they explain how the IECC is developed, how consensus committees and public comments shape the process, and why input from HERS® Raters, builders, subcontractors, code officials, and consumers matters. The conversation highlights several important 2027 IECC updates, including clearer blower-door testing provisions, expanded recognition of ANSI/RESNET®/ICC 380, tighter ERI targets, performance-path changes, improved fenestration values, expanded energy credits, and a new energy audit requirement for large additions. The guests also discuss how state and local adoption varies widely, from formal code councils and rulemaking processes to state-specific pathways like Texas HB 1736. Most importantly, Nathan, Alex, and Kris encourage HERS® Raters to get involved. Whether through local home builder associations, RESNET® program engagement, ICC interested-party lists, or future participation in the 2030 IECC subgroup, raters can bring field data, practical experience, and clarity to a process that increasingly depends on verified performance. Kris's contact info: kstenger@iccsafe.org Alex's contact info: alsmith@iccsafe.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexsmithenergy/ Nathan's contact info: nkahre@nahb.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-kahre-94a779108/   ICC Committees: https://www.iccsafe.org/committees/energy-iecc/ https://www.iccsafe.org/membership/councils-committees/icc-committee-application/   The code adoption kit we discussed: https://www.nahb.org/advocacy/top-priorities/building-codes/code-adoption-kits/2024-International-Energy-Conservation-Code   To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

  4. May 11

    EP152 Powering ENERGY STAR Multifamily in the Southwest: SRP & Copa Health's Blueprint for High-Performance Housing (April 2026)

    QUOTES from the episode: "Utilities are no longer just incentive providers. They are becoming design partners." "High performance is not a luxury in affordable housing. It is a necessity for predictable living costs." "If you want this to scale, it starts with early coordination and shared goals."  In this episode of RESTalk, we head to Tempe, Arizona, where extreme heat, rising energy costs, and housing needs are converging, and where a standout project is redefining what ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction can look like in a hot, dry climate. Bill is joined by Rebecca Smout of Salt River Project (SRP), Joe Keeper of Copa Health, and Jacob Alvarez of Desert Skies Energy to unpack the story behind La Victoria Commons, an ENERGY STAR–certified multifamily development designed with both performance and people in mind. At the center of the conversation is a powerful idea: utilities are no longer just incentive providers; they are becoming design partners. Through early collaboration, flexible program design, and deep involvement from HERS® raters, this project demonstrates how technical rigor and cost awareness can coexist. The team walks through how early modeling, integrated design, and verification helped align multiple programs and certifications while still delivering a practical, buildable project. But the real impact shows up at the resident level. As Joe explains, high-performance construction is not just about energy savings; it is about creating predictable, manageable utility costs for families in affordable housing. Combined with transit access, EV infrastructure, and community services, La Victoria Commons becomes more than a development. It becomes a replicable blueprint for housing equity and market transformation in some of the most demanding climates in the country. Rebecca's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-smout-31a08644/ SRP: https://www.srpnet.com/   Jacob's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-alvarez125/ Desert Skies: https://desertskiesenergy.com/   Joe's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-keeper-183aa13ab/ https://copahealth.org/   LaVictoria Commons in the news: https://www.tempe.gov/Home/Components/News/News/18749/   To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

  5. Apr 13

    EP151 Emerging Leaders, Real Talk: The Future of HERS® Starts Here (March 2026)

    QUOTES from the episode: "You can't fix what you didn't catch early. Thoroughness upfront saves everything downstream." "It's a young industry. That's what makes it exciting, we're still shaping what it becomes." "If you don't have a reason for being in this work, it's going to be hard to stay in it." In this episode of RESTalk, Bill sits down with 2026 Emerging Leader Fellows Courtney Holland and Hayden Cantoni fresh off their experience at the RESNET® Conference. Both guests share how they found their way into the HERS® and building performance industry, often unexpectedly, and what has kept them engaged ever since. From fieldwork to modeling, their stories highlight a career path that blends purpose, technical skill, and variety. Courtney and Hayden reflect on what accelerates learning in the field, the importance of mentorship, and the real-world challenges of tasks such as ventilation verification and HVAC grading. They also offer honest insights into early mistakes, emphasizing the importance of thorough inspections, documentation, and speaking up when something is off. Their perspectives reveal a maturing industry that still has room to improve in training pathways and awareness. Looking ahead, both see a future where HERS® ratings become standard practice in homebuilding, not a premium add-on. They make a compelling case for why new talent is critical to that future, bringing fresh ideas and energy to a still-evolving field. Whether motivated by sustainability, health, or hands-on work, their message is clear: this is an industry worth paying attention to. Hayden's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haydencantoni/ Courtney's bio: https://southern-energy.com/celebrating-women-in-construction/#courtney-foulis RESNET's® announcement: 2026 Emerging Leaders Fellow: https://www.resnet.us/articles/resnet-announces-the-2026-emerging-leader-fellows/   To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage with you. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

  6. Mar 16

    EP150 Women Building the Future: Voices from the RESNET® Community (March 2026)

    QUOTES from the episode:   "You absolutely belong here. There are many paths into this industry, and there's room for everyone to thrive." - Cindy Zeis   "Patience, facts, and science always win the day." - Sharla Riead   "The future of women in building science is unlimited." - Nancy St. Hilaire   In this milestone 150th episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn marks Women's History Month by highlighting the voices of women from across the RESNET® community. Through a series of short conversations, industry leaders share how they entered the world of building science, the mentors who influenced their careers, and how the industry has evolved over time. Their stories reveal that there is no single path into the home performance and HERS® ecosystem. Some entered through construction, the mechanical trades, and hands-on field work, while others came through sustainability planning, academic programs, or early energy-auditing efforts dating back to energy crises of past decades. What they share is a passion for solving complex problems in buildings and translating technical building science into practical solutions that improve comfort, efficiency, durability, and affordability. The conversation also explores the experience of working in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Guests reflect on early moments of needing to prove their credibility, walking onto job sites where they were the only woman in the room, and overcoming stereotypes about fieldwork. At the same time, they highlight the strong mentorship, collaboration, and respect that characterize the RESNET® network. Many have seen meaningful progress over the years, with more women becoming HERS raters, modelers, quality assurance professionals, and industry leaders. Looking ahead, the guests point to one of the biggest remaining barriers: visibility. Many people simply do not realize that building science exists as a career path. Their advice to the next generation is to stay curious, seek hands-on experience, build strong communication skills, and ground their work in solid science and ethics. As building performance becomes increasingly interdisciplinary, blending field diagnostics, data, standards, and software, the opportunities for women to influence and lead the industry are expanding rapidly. Their closing reflections capture the spirit of the episode: the future of women in building science is impactful, influential, and ultimately unlimited.   Guests this episode: Cindy Zeis, Technical Director with PSD https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindyzeis/   Julie Christesen, Chief Administrative Officer/Building Scientist with ES Green & Co. https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-conn-christesen/   Nancy St. Hilaire, Co-owner of Builder i Group https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-st-hilaire-59161121/   Laurel Elam, Sr. Director Business and Standards Development for RESNET https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-elam-5404817/   Sharla Riead, Lead Instructor at the Energy Smart Institute https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharla-riead/ To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

  7. Feb 9

    EP149 Inside the 2026 RESNET® Conference: The Next Era of HERS® (January 2026)

    QUOTES from the episode: "The RESNET® Conference is where experience meets fresh perspective, and that's where the real progress happens." "This isn't just another conference. It's about shaping the next era of the HERS© industry." "If you want to understand where the industry is headed, this is where the conversations are happening." In this episode of RESTalk, Bill Spohn sits down with Noah Kibbe from RESNET® to preview the 2026 RESNET® Conference coming to San Antonio's Riverwalk. Noah shares what goes into planning the event, from selecting the location and shaping the agenda to locking in what might be one of the most memorable receptions in conference history. Yes, at the Alamo. The conversation gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how the conference is intentionally designed to balance technical depth, networking, and community. Noah walks through the structure of the conference, including general sessions, expanded 90-minute breakout sessions, and clearly defined tracks like energy codes, building science, carbon reporting, RESNET® Quality Assurance, and RESNET® 101 for newcomers. The discussion highlights why RESNET® extended session lengths this year, putting more emphasis on Q&A, panel-style discussions, and practical takeaways that attendees can actually use when they return home. The episode also covers sponsorship opportunities, pre-conference training options, the Whova app for planning and networking, and new additions like session recordings available after the event. Noah closes by framing the conference theme, "The Next Era of the HERS® Industry," and sharing details about RESNET®'s Habitat for Humanity build day, reinforcing that this event is not just about education, but also impact and giving back. Conference link: https://www.resnet.us/2026-conference/ Sponsor Application: https://www.resnet.us/2026-resnet-conference-sponsor-application/ Learn more on the Habitat for Humanity Build day: email: Valerie@RESNET.us Noah's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahkibbe/ WHOVA event scheudle: https://whova.com/embedded/event/lC-B89PmXiRbKBwCelSSr2arOUnE88wFAawUiW8ufLc%3D/?refer=undefined&day=1 To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

  8. Jan 12

    EP148 A New Chapter for RESNET: A Conversation with Executive Director Shelby Gatlin (January 2026)

    QUOTES from the episode: "What raters do makes the difference. Supporting them protects the credibility of the entire ecosystem." "Energy and water performance are not abstract. They are measurable, verifiable, and they matter to families." "My role is to protect what works, listen carefully, and help RESNET adapt without losing what makes it special." In the first RESTalk episode of 2026, Bill Spohn welcomes Shelby Gatlin, the new Executive Director of RESNET©, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, credibility, and the future of home energy ratings. Shelby shares her professional path from conservation-focused work and regulatory advocacy into the residential energy efficiency space, including years spent navigating operational growth and industry change. Shelby explains why RESNET©'s voluntary standards, third-party verification, and ecosystem of trust matter now more than ever, especially as affordability, comfort, and long-term household costs take center stage. She emphasizes that energy and water performance are not abstract concepts, but measurable outcomes that directly impact homeowners. Throughout the discussion, Shelby underscores the critical role of raters and providers in protecting the integrity and credibility of RESNET© programs. Looking ahead, Shelby outlines her leadership approach: build on what already works, listen closely to stakeholders, modernize systems where clarity and transparency are needed, and preserve what makes RESNET© unique. She also shares her excitement for her first RESNET© conference as Executive Director and her commitment to empathy, collaboration, and trust across the industry. Shleby's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelby-gatlin-59100926/ To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

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5
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Bill Spohn
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    157
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright RESTALK 2021
  • Show Website
    RESTalk

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