📣 Episode 8 of The Signal: It's Never Too LateThe Journey of Rich Cormier — From Athletic Director to Solar Leader + Life-Changing Nicaragua Trek.In this episode, Riley and Mark sit down with Rich Cormier, a top performer at Boundless whose path into the solar industry is anything but ordinary. Born and raised in Massachusetts, Rich spent over a decade as a teacher and athletic director before realizing the traditional career path wasn’t giving him the life he wanted for his family.He shares how he made the bold jump into solar at age 40, what it was like giving up a stable six-figure job, and why betting on himself changed everything. Rich breaks down how he built his solar business from scratch, the mindset that helped him generate consistent referrals, and what it really takes to succeed in this industry.The episode also dives deep into Rich’s recent GivePower humanitarian trip to Nicaragua, where he helped bring electricity to a remote village school. He talks about the living conditions, the emotional connection with the kids and host families, and how the experience completely reshaped his perspective on gratitude, purpose, and what matters most.Whether you're considering a career in solar, looking for inspiration, or want a firsthand look at the impact Boundless is making around the world, this is a story you don’t want to miss.⏱ Timestamps00:00 – Intro & setting the scene01:00 – Meet Rich Cormier02:00 – Growing up, sports, and entering education04:00 – Becoming an athletic director06:00 – Burnout, family life, and looking for change08:00 – Discovering solar & taking the leap11:00 – First deals, learning curves, and early wins13:00 – How Rich built a referral-driven business17:00 – Assertive vs. pushy: the sales mindset23:00 – Becoming “the solar guy” in his community27:00 – Quality of life in solar: flexibility + tradeoffs30:00 – GivePower Nicaragua trip: expectations vs. reality33:00 – Living conditions, culture, and the kids41:00 – Lasting impact & what gratitude really means48:00 – Running Boundless training + advice for new reps