Kris Kasawki finds parallels between the growing world of podcasting and what he does at Park Power, a provider of electricity and natural gas in Alberta.

“The world is democratizing,” he says. “The information is out there. The access to do anything is out there. Podcasts are a great example of that — the airwaves are no longer controlled by the radio companies.”

Similar forces made it possible for him to start his business six years ago. In Alberta, energy deregulation means consumers can choose who to buy their electricity and natural gas from, though the supply remains guaranteed.

That means providers like Park Power have to earn their customers. Kasawski does that by a combination of competitive rates and strong customer service.

“Everything’s Alberta-based — you’re either dealing with some nice ladies in Calgary, or you’re dealing with me, over phone, over email, over social media.”

And he sweetens the deal by contributing 10 per cent of his profits to local charities. When customers sign up, they choose which of Park Power’s community partners to direct those funds to. That’s part of the happiness he hopes to pass on to his customers.

“I’m not trying to hustle you into a deal that’s great for me but not great for the consumer,” he says. “We’re just trying to offer good rates, good services. Instead of your bill coming in every month and you’re just like, “Ughhhh,” … I’ve had consumers tell me they’re like, ‘Ah! I feel kind of good!’ ”

Learn more about where Park Power is coming from and why it supports the Alberta Podcast Network in this conversation:

Be sure to follow Park Power on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. And to learn how you can switch, visit parkpower.ca.

Podcast music is "His Last Share Of The Stars" by Doctor Turtle, courtesy of freemusicarchive.org.