The Broadband Bunch

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Christopher Ali, professor at the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications at Penn State University. Dr Ali is a leading advocate for universal broadband access. He is known for his book, "Farm Fresh Broadband: The Politics of Rural Connectivity," which delves into the challenges and opportunities of rural broadband. Dr. Ali's work extends to actively sh...

In this episode, we are joined by Josh Seideman, Vice President of Policy and Industry Innovation at the NTCA - The Rural Broadband Association. With a focus on bridging the digital divide, Josh advocates for over 850 independent and community-based broadband companies. His expertise and commitment have made him a leading voice in the effort to bridge the connectivity gap, ensuring that even remot...

In this episode we are joined by Liz Kohler, founder and CEO of is Nexion Solutions, a company using broadband technology to safeguard domestic violence victims and high-risk witnesses in the criminal justice system. Her innovative approach empowers survivors and ensures rapid response through seamless connectivity to authorities. Liz's work bridges the digital divide, creating safer communities f...

In this episode, we are joined by Jill Kuehny, CEO of KanOkla Networks. Not only do we explore Jill's mission to bring high-tech solutions to rural America, but we also delve into the importance and adoption of agricultural technology. Jill and her team at KanOkla Networks are at the forefront of driving progress in communities often overlooked. KanOkla’s commitment to bridging the gap between tec...

In this episode, we are joined by, Gary Johnson, CEO of Paul Bunyan Communications. We explore how their Gigazone Gaming Championships have become a cornerstone in engaging customers and showcasing their high-speed broadband service. Learn how this unique approach merges advanced technology with community building. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcas...

We had the opportunity to chat with Kathryn de Wit at the recently held SRC Live! event hosted by the NTCA. Our discussion revolved around a wide range of topics concerning broadband and funding. Kathryn and the Pew Charitable Trusts consistently stand out as a valuable and reliable source for policy insights. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast pla...

In this episode, we are joined by Offir Schwartz, Founder & CEO of Capcon Networks, a company focused on Rural Broadband Multi-Site Networking. Offir is passionate about connecting rural broadband operators and communities more efficiently, ensuring better internet access even in hard-to-reach areas. Under his leadership, Capcon Networks provides innovative solutions, enabling operators to compete...

In this episode, we are joined by Jeff Neblett, CEO of ISPN, a leading managed service provider for ISPs in the US. With a focus on bridging the rural digital divide, he drives growth through customer-centric, reliable, and innovative support and IT solutions. Jeff's vision keeps subscribers connected and empowers community-focused ISPs to excel. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadba...

In our final episode from the Gig East Summit, we are joined by Tom Snyder, Executive Director & Rachael Newberry, Program Director of R!OT.org a catalyst for innovation in North Carolina’s Research Triangle and the Southeastern US. With a startup accelerator, R&D lab, educational programs, and their own podcast, R!OT nurtures visionary ideas, including the annual RIoT Pitch Competition at the Gig...

In this episode, we are joined by Ashley Harris, Community Manager for the Gig East Exchange and the city of Wilson. With a passion for digital education, Ashely advocates for underserved communities lacking broadband access. Ashley's work involves inspiring and educating residents about the opportunities the internet offers, fostering excitement and empowerment. Her efforts in bridging the digita...

In this episode, we are at the Gig East Summit in Wilson, North Carolina. We chat with Will Aycock, General Manager at Greenlight Community Broadband, City of Wilson, and Rebecca Agner, the Communications and Marketing Director at the City of Wilson. Our talk centers around how the City of Wilson and this technology-forward event is empowering residents, businesses, and the community to embrace br...

In this episode we are joined by Stefan Youngblood the keynote speaker at this year's Gig East Summit hosted by the City of Wilson, North Carolina. In our discussion about AI, we explore its boundless potential and the challenges it brings as we adapt to this transformative technology. Excitement meets caution as we envision AI's impact on industries, healthcare, education, and everyday life. Ethi...

We're going to need a bigger boat. This year's show is bigger than ever before. Join Brad as he chats with JJ Jones and Rich Williams about all the incredible things happening at this year's event. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

In this episode, Brad is joined by Sanjay Bhatia, Vice President of Product Marketing at DZS, a leader in broadband connectivity, mobile & optical edge, and cloud software solutions. Sanjay’s expertise and dedication to innovation plays a pivotal role in driving DZS’s mission of enhancing connectivity and ensuring the highest standards of service for customers across the globe. Click now to listen...

In this episode, we are joined by Lee Ayers, VP of Engineering at Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative. Lee has dedicated 37 years to Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative. He prioritizes members' needs and championed broadband integration for their benefit - first with a smart-grid implementation then fiber to the community. With a passion for progress, Lee's vision and caring nature drive the cooperati...

On this episode, we are joined by Mark Ponton, Director, Broadband and Fiber Services at Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC). REC is a member-owned utility that provides electric service to nearly 170,000 connections in 22 Virginia counties from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay. Mark leads REC's efforts to expand broadband services and bridge the digital divide in rural communiti...

On this episode, we are joined by Ron Beck, interim President, and CEO of the Utilities Technology Council (UTC) a global trade association dedicated to creating a favorable business, regulatory, and technological environment for critical infrastructure providers. With a renewed focus on broadband technology, Ron is leading efforts to promote its adoption and advancement in the utility sector. Cli...

Joe Valandra is the President and CEO of Tribal Ready, a leading organization dedicated to supporting Native communities. With a focus on self-determination, Joe provides resources, technical expertise, and a dynamic platform for Natives to access information, collaboration, and the funding they deserve. His leadership drives positive change, empowering Indigenous peoples to control their own dest...

In this episode, we are joined by Greg Wilson the Founder of Automation Exchange, a South African company now operating in the United States. Specializing in systems and automation for the fiber to the premises (FTTP) industry, Greg has led the company to become a leading provider of advanced automated solutions. His visionary leadership and passion for innovation have transformed FTTP deployment,...

In this episode, we are joined Jeff Fraleigh, President of ETI Software. We dig into the importance and impact of AI on the broadband industry and discuss why this generational idea has everyone buzzing with excitement. Click the link below to listen as chat about the boundless potential of AI, revolutionizing connectivity and transforming everyone’s digital experiences. Also, subscribe to the Bro...

On this episode we are joined by Brett Kilbourne, Senior VP & General Counsel at the Utilities Technology Council. Brett chats with Brad at this year's annual UTC event in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Brett specializes in assisting utilities in navigating legal and regulatory issues related to broadband. Throughout his career, Brett has established himself as a trusted advisor, providing strategic co...

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, we are joined by Amanda Ellis, Editor and Chief of Livibility.com a site that promotes small to mid-size cities and the benefits of living there. Not surprisingly, when someone decides to move to a new area one of the key drivers is access to the internet. Join Kaleigh Cox as she and Amanda talk about the importance of communities promoting their internet ac...

In this episode, we are joined by Kim Young, President of MKY Ventures. Kim Young is a dedicated grant writer specializing in broadband projects targeted at unserved and underserved communities. Kim’s grant writing experience makes her an invaluable resource for communities in obtaining funding for projects focused on improving internet access and closing the digital divide. Click the link below t...

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, we are joined by Josh Hildebrandt, the Director of Broadband Initiatives at the Georgia Technology Authority. Josh is dedicated to ending the digital divide in Georgia by ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet statewide. Josh's leadership is leading to significant advancements in broadband coverage and affordability, particularly in underserved are...

In this episode, we are joined by Ilissa Miller, CEO of iMiller Public Relations, a dynamic voice in the telecommunications industry. With a keen understanding of the power of connectivity, Ilissa has been instrumental in driving meaningful discussions about broadband and its potential for unlocking limitless business opportunities. Her expertise lies in providing strategic advisory services to co...