Built for Boots: How EVs Are Powering Colorado’s Toughest Jobs
Built for Boots is a three-part, documentary-style branded series for the Colorado Energy Office that challenges the idea that electric vehicles are only suited for city life. Filmed across Colorado, the series follows individuals and teams who depend on their vehicles not just to get around, but as essential tools for their work, livelihoods, and communities. Each episode highlights real people solving real problems—showcasing how EVs are powering businesses, reducing costs, and expanding what’s possible both on and off the road.
Peak Performance: Aspen’s Fleet Goes Electric
Partnering with the City of Aspen, I produced this documentary-style video showcasing how the city is transitioning its fleet to electric vehicles. The story follows Bethany Hayes, Aspen’s fleet manager, as she navigates the challenges of steep terrain, harsh winters, and high community expectations. From hauling gear to powering job sites before sunrise, Bethany and her team demonstrate how innovation and adaptability keep Aspen running while reducing carbon emissions.
Caffeine Meets Kilowatts: Hal’s Coffee Run’s On Electric
This project tells the story of Hallie, a former healthcare worker who turned an unexpected career setback into a thriving coffee business. Hal’s Coffee began as a mobile trailer in Fort Collins, powered by Hallie’s curiosity, determination, and love of coffee. When her old gas truck couldn’t keep up, she upgraded to an electric pickup, cutting fuel costs, reducing maintenance, and making it possible to tow her trailer with ease. Through programs like Vehicle Exchange Colorado (VXC), she made the transition affordable—and the EV became a key part of how she scales her business. From mobile trailer to a café on CSU’s campus, this story highlights innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth.
From Rot to Watt: Compost Queen Uses Clean Energy For Dirty Jobs
This story follows Jamie Blanchard Poling and her husband Max as they turn frustration with home composting into a thriving local business in Fort Collins. Compost Queen is built on community, sustainability, and hands-on problem-solving—but scaling the operation required rethinking how they worked on the road. Their electric pickup now hauls compost, powers equipment, and charges tools while on the move, becoming both a mobile workbench and a symbol of their values in action. No gas, no noise, no breakdowns—just practical, sustainable solutions that help their business grow while staying true to its roots.
Director / DP / Stills: Stephen Cardinale
Producer: Cheyenne Smith
AC: Ruben Weaver