Climate Stories Driving Change

MIKE’S STORY

My name is Mike Gordon and I grew up in Oyster Bay, Long Island. I came to Hudson Valley because my Mom moved to South Salem and me and my wife wanted her and her grandchildren to know each other. I founded Joule Assets because of what we could help create.

What drives me is that I believe in markets that work for people and for our collective goals. We want to create a cleaner grid? Well, let’s go get lots of solar, wind and hydropower built? We’re concerned about the money buying power will cost? Let’s get together to wield our collective clout to make sure that when you build it, it will not cost us more. I think it’s hard to pick one favorite thing about my work but I really love the competence and passion of the people I work with and I love watching clients realize that the whole ball o’ wax is in their control.

The climate crisis doesn’t really have an impact on me and that’s why it hurts me so much to see young people outraged at the mess we’re leaving them. It has changed my life and habits in tiny ways (run rather than drive e.g.) but it’s so absurd to think it does anything beyond simply letting my neighbors know I care. I really admire people who deeply change their way of living to embody what they believe in.

If I could change anything to help with the climate crisis, I’d like to change the fundamental market rules such that people are rewarded for supporting outcomes we want to achieve.

When I’m not having fun at work I am singing, dancing, supporting folks in their personal decision-making process/challenges, and talking about life.