Connected Nation

Hurricane season is here — and it's expected to be one of the most active on record. In this episode of Connected Nation, we sit down with three industry leaders who know exactly what it takes to keep people online before, during, and after a disaster.Together, they unpack real lessons from 2024's devastating Hurricane Helene, including how to prepare for outages, deploy emergency Wi-Fi, and coordinate with first responders — and why small and regional ISPs are critical lifelines in rural communities.They also dive into innovative solutions like Calix's SmartTown, the power of resilient networks, and how partnerships can save lives.(PRODUCTION NOTE: We had an issue when exporting Brad's audio file and he is unfortunately not heard answering the last two questions. We apologize for the error.)Recommended and related links: NOAA 2025 hurricane outlookThe Weather Channel's 2025 hurricane predictionJoint press release: After Hurricane Helene Riverwave Broadband websiteCalix websiteMC Communications websiteERC Broadband website

On this episode of Connected Nation, we take you to Wichita, Kansas for an historic event – the groundbreaking of the first Internet Exchange Point in the state. We talk with those who have been working toward this moment for years – about what an Internet Exchange Point is, why it's important to individuals, businesses, and communities, AND the effort to bring this same infrastructure to 125 towns across the country. Related links:CNIXP: connectednation.org/ixpWichita State University: https://www.wichita.edu/Newby Ventures: https://www.newby-ventures.com/DE-CIX: https://www.de-cix.net/Cisco: https://www.cisco.com/About the WSU CNIXP: https://connectednation.org/press-releases/connected-nation-breaks-ground-on-kansass-first-internet-exchange-point-facility-at-wichita-state-university

In this episode of Connected Nation, Jessica Denson revisits with Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband and AireBeam, to discuss the outsized impact that small and medium-sized internet service providers (ISPs) can have on closing the Digital Divide. From strategic builds in underserved communities to innovative fiber solutions in mobile home parks, Ben shares how these regional providers are solving last-mile connectivity challenges, preparing for BEAD funding, and competing with big-name ISPs — all while putting customer service and community first. Learn how being small actually offers a big advantage in today's broadband landscape.Recommended Links:AireBeam Website Utah Broadband Website Ben Elkins LinkedIn 

What do YOU think motivates some people to put their own needs aside to help others? We talked with one extraordinary teenager who is taking action to the close the Digital Divide – by helping both senior citizens and those dealing with homelessness. On this episode of Connected Nation, we head to Birmingham, Alabama to meet the 2025 National Student Broadband Hero Award honoree – Michael Schmalz.  Related links:Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T  Digital HarmoniesPress release announcing the 2025 Student Broadband Hero Award winner

On this episode of Connected Nation, we wrap up our coverage of the Connected America conference with a powerful conversation about bridging the Digital Divide. Host Jessica Denson is joined by Viviana Cohuo, Lead Project Manager for AT&T's Corporate Social Responsibility team. They dive into AT&T's nationwide efforts to build digital skills through programs like Teens Teach Tech powered by AT&T, Ready Tech Go workshops with National PTA, and new device donation initiatives.Whether you're a parent, educator, or tech advocate, this episode highlights why digital literacy is essential for everyone—and how partnerships are driving real progress.Recommended Links: Teens Teach Tech Website Digital Skills Training WebsiteAT&T ScreenReady

The retirement of copper landlines is accelerating — and many businesses aren't ready. On this episode of Connected Nation, guest host Grant Ahlbrand speaks with Max Silber, Vice President of Mobility and IoT at MetTel, to explore why this shift is happening now, what it means for essential services and businesses, and how digital solutions can deliver safer, smarter, and more cost-effective communication infrastructure. Whether you're a business owner, IT manager, or simply curious about the future of connectivity, this conversation breaks down what you need to know to adapt and thrive in a post-copper world.Recommended Links: Max Silber LinkedInMetTel Website

On this episode of Connected Nation, we tackle a topic impacting millions of students across the country — how to sustain digital access in K-12 education. As federal programs end, only 27% of states are ready to keep kids connected. Jessica Denson talks with Pam Lloyd, Ph.D., Strategic Advisor at Connected Nation, and Ji Soo Song, Director of Projects and Initiatives at SETDA, about a new report that outlines strategies to prevent students from falling behind. Together, they explore what must happen next to ensure every student has the online access they need to succeed — now and in the future.Recommended Links: SETDA Report - The Universal Connectivity ImperativeOpinion Piece: Time for State Ed-Tech Leaders to Take Matters Into Our Own HandsProduction Note: There were issues with downloading Ji Soo Song's audio file and we apologize for moments of low audio quality. 

In this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from the Connected America conference in Irving, Texas. Our host, Jessica Denson sits down with the Editor-in-Chief at Working Nation, to discuss the importance of digital skills in today's workforce and how digital navigators are bridging the connectivity gap. Later, Jessica speaks with an individual from Lead for America about their efforts to support digitally disconnected rural communities through the American Connection Corps. Tune in to learn how these organizations are working to ensure all Americans have the skills and access needed to thrive in the digital age.

On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with leadership from Calix – a company that “helps broadband service providers simplify, innovate, and grow.” Learn how the company is shifting the focus from being a service provider to a “experience” provider, what exactly that means, and and how the unique approach is actually aiding in the response to natural disasters in the U-S. Recommend Links: Bridget Watkins LinkedinCalix website

On this episode of Connected Nation, we're doing things a little bit differently. That's because March 24, 2025 marks our five year anniversary since launching.We'll take you through the very distinct moment in time we got started,  how we've evolved since, and what are favorite episodes have been over the last five years. Related links:Press release announcing five-year-anniversary First episode (S1, Ep. 1) - Telemedicine in a time of Coronavirus: What a recent study on telehealth can teach usSome favorite episodes:S1, Ep. 10 - Expert advice: An elementary school teacher shares her top 5 tips for parentsS1, Ep. 15 - FCC Chairman on "Digital Opportunity" for all Americans S1, Ep. 22 - Gov. Jeb Bush: Broadband internet is an imperative, not a luxury S2, Ep. 17 - Why Michigan's new approach to expanding internet statewide may be the answer to universal accessS4, Ep. 4 - Pushing Tin: How one air traffic controller is helping introduce black youth to aviationS5, Ep. 9 - One filmmaker shares how taking her craft online changed her work, opened new doors for moviemaking

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from the Connected America conference, where we dive into the latest in broadband innovation and policy. First, we hear from Belden Precision Optical Technologies, a company that was recently acquired by Belden, about how this shift is driving new opportunities in fiber connectivity. Then, we sit down with Eric Frederick, Chief Connectivity Officer of the Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI), to discuss how Michigan is navigating BEAD funding and broadband expansion in a time of transition. Don't miss these key insights into the future of connectivity!Recommended Links:Howard Trinh LinkedInAnna Depoian LinkedInBelden/Precision WesbiteTakeover storyEric Frederick LinkedInMIHI Website

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from Connected America in Irving, Texas, by exploring the Startup Village, where innovation is driving connectivity forward. First, we sit down with Huw Rees from NetExperience, a company revolutionizing managed Wi-Fi for apartments, student housing, and hotels. Then, we meet Yishai Amsterdamer, CEO of Litelinx, whose company is introducing smart fiber, a game-changing technology that streamlines deployment and maintenance. These startups are tackling some of broadband's biggest challenges—tune in to learn how their solutions could shape the future of connectivity!Recommended Links:Huw Rees LinkedInNetExperience websiteYishai Amsterdamer LinkedInLitelinx website

We're live from Connected America, exploring how internet exchange points (IXPs) improve connectivity across the U.S.!  Host Jessica Denson chats with De-CIX's Kelly Sieben, who uses a fun marble demo to explain how IXPs reduce latency and speed up internet access. Then, Ed d'Agostino dives deeper into why IXPs are critical for broadband expansion, how they impact everyday users, and why the U.S. is working to expand them beyond major cities.Recommended Links: Kelly Sieben LinkedInEd d'Agostino LinkedIn DE-CIX Website

Imagine living in today's digital world without knowing how to access the internet, use a computer, or even navigate a mobile phone. It may surprise you to learn that this is a reality for millions of Americans.On this episode, we explore the critical impact of digital literacy and how lacking essential skills affects everything from economic opportunities to health outcomes. Host Jessica Denson speaks with experts behind a new report that sheds light on the growing need for digital skills and what can be done to bridge the gap.Tune in to learn why digital literacy is more important than ever—and what steps can be taken to ensure no one is left behind in the digital age.Recommended Links:READ THE REPORT HERE

Navigating the broadband landscape in 2025 is no easy task—especially as new policies, technologies, and funding opportunities emerge. In this episode of Connected Nation, host Jessica Denson sits down with an Editor at TotalTelecom, to discuss the key broadband issues and opportunities state and local leaders should be watching.They'll explore the themes shaping the upcoming Connected America Conference in Dallas, Texas, on March 11-12, as well as the challenges and strategies for broadband expansion under a new administration.Recommended Links: Brad Randall LinkedInConnected America 2025 Registration

Broadband isn't just about fiber and wireless networks—it's about people. In this episode of Connected Nation, we explore a groundbreaking research project that examines the individuals and programs working to close the Digital Divide. Jessica Denson is joined by Dr. Revati Prasad from the Benton Institute for Broadband and Society and Dr. Caroline Stratton from the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) to discuss their findings, the challenges of digital inclusion, and what's needed to ensure everyone has access to the internet. Tune in to learn why broadband is more than just technology—it's about the people making it possible.Recommended Links:Human Infrastructure of Broadband Dr. Prasad's SummaryDr. Revati Prasad LinkedInDr. Caroline Stratton LinkedIn

Telehealth has transformed how older adults access healthcare, but significant barriers still exist. In this special roundtable episode of Connected Naton, we're joined by a panel of telehealth experts to discuss how technology, innovation, and collaboration can improve healthcare access for aging populations.PRODUCTION NOTE: One of the guests, Tom Kamber had a previous engagement that he had to step out for around the 30:00 minute mark.Recommended Links:Tom Kamber LinkedInOATS Website Anoush Khachikyan LinkedInLVING WebsiteKari Gray LinkedInCTN WebsiteMarisa Rossetti LinkedInAlta Senior Living Website

The new year has arrived - bringing the long-awaited start of broadband expansion under the Broadband Equity Access and Development Program (BEAD). However, as all U.S. states and territories prepare to build simultaneously, new challenges are surfacing. On this episode of Connected Nation, we'll discuss these issues with a telecom industry leader covering topics ranging from strengthening the workforce to adopting best practices for rolling out large-scale broadband infrastructure. Related links:Matthew Langhoff LinkedinMTA Solutions website

State leaders across the US are about to embark on a massive undertaking to expand the nation's broadband infrastructure – thanks to bipartisan legislation that funds the work.  On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with the CEO and founder of Aurigo Software Technologies, a company that's helped plan, build, and manage some of the world's largest infrastructure projects. We ask what common mistakes state leaders can avoid and what opportunities they should be looking for as they begin laying the foundation for universal broadband in America. Recommended Links:Balaji's LinkedInAurigo Wesbite

On today's podcast – we're doing something special to wrap up an incredible year.We're bringing in the award-winning communications team that works behind the scenes daily to spread the word about Connected Nation's impactful programs and projects – tackling digital inequities from coast to coast. We'll reflect on the biggest challenges, milestones, and victories of 2024, share personal highlights, and even give a glimpse of what's to come in 2025.Recommended Links: Lily's Puerto Rico blogAshley & Grant's Interview w/ Marco & AlekKailynn's West Virginia story

Today, we're diving into an incredible story of technology and connection happening right here in the United States. We're thrilled to welcome leadership from Centranet, a company that delivers cutting edge internet via a fiber broadband communitcations network. We will hear more about Centranet and their recently announced partnership with Sac and Fox Nation to bring one of the fastest internet speeds in the world to a rural tribal community in Oklahoma.Recommended Links: Partnership Article Centranet Website 

On this episode of Connected Nation, we conclude our coverage of the Broadband Communities Summit West.  Learn how a relatively new nonprofit is helping community organizations bridge the Digital Divide; explore another company's unique approach to helping smaller ISPs secure funding; AND hear from one man who is taking connecting his community into his own hands. Recommended Links:Curtis Dean LinkedinCommunity Broadband Action NetworkScott Sampson LinkedinMac Mountain LLC.Robert Ford Mance LinkedinFord Mance Capital AdvisorsPast Broadband Communities Summit West episodes:Sounds of the Summit: Episode #1Sounds from the Summit: Why 100% connectivity is a moving target in the Sunflower StateSounds of the Summit: Upcoming trends in digital inclusion and how one ISP is revolutionizing local connectivitySounds of the Summit: Today's perceptions in telehealth and Hawaii's vision for full connectivity

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our live coverage at the Broadband Communities Summit West conference. We talk to a leader in research about telehealth and find out what trends are impacting all of us. Plus we talk to a leader from Hawaii Telecom about the state's incredible goal to have a hundred percent connectivity by 2026. Recommended Links:Chris McGovern LinkedinJonathan Delahoyde Linkedin Hawaiian TelecomPast Broadband Communities Summit West episodes:Sounds of the Summit: Episode #1Sounds from the Summit: Why 100% connectivity is a moving target in the Sunflower StateSounds of the Summit: Upcoming trends in digital inclusion and how one ISP is revolutionizing local connectivity

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our live coverage at the Broadband Communities Summit West conference. We talk with the Executive VP of Digital Inclusion for Connected Nation, about trends that are happening within the digital inclusion space. Plus we talk with a leader from Further Reach about how the company started as a project at UC Berkeley, and has now become a sustainable ISP for local homes.Recommended Links: Heather Gate LinkedinTamir Scheinok LinkedinFurther Reach websitePast Broadband Communities Summit West episodes:Sounds of the Summit: Episode #1Sounds from the Summit: Why 100% connectivity is a moving target in the Sunflower State

On this episode of Connected Nation, you'll hear from the Interim Director of the Kansas State Broadband Office as he discusses Middle Mile vs. Last Mile, BEAD deadlines, and Kansas's BEAD challenge process.Related Links:Kansas Department of Commerce - Office of Broadband DevelopmentJoseph Le - Interim Director of Broadband Development at Kansas Department of Commerce Linkedin ProfilePast Broadband Communities Summit West episodes:Sounds from the Summit: Episode #1

On our first episode of BBC Summit coverage, you'll hear from one man who says he knows what the number one issue many of the broadband leaders are having.Also joining us, a state broadband director who says "by the time BEAD is done, there will be 56 different conclusions." Recommended Links:Brian Newby's LinkedInTom Cox's LinkedInSteve Valdez LinkedIn

On today's podcast, Verizon's CRO for the Global Enterprise & Public Sector, Massimo Peselli, joins us to discuss the technology of 5G including what's myth and what's reality. Plus, we look at how global leaders are tackling the issue of connectivity AND what's on the horizon for new tech within the broadband space. Recommended Links: Massimo's LinkedInVerizon Business 

Today's episode is a bonus interview from our coverage at the 2024 Broadband Nation Expo.We were joined by Justin Fazzari, Senior Broadband Strategist at Sanborn. We speak about Justin's background, some of his daily activities and what is the present and future of Sanborn. Be sure to check out the links below!Recommended Links:Justin's LinkedInSanborn's Website

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our live coverage at the Broadband Nation Expo. During the "Broadband and Brews" event hosted by Connected Nation, Vernonburg Group, and Sandborn our host Grant Ahlbrand speaks with three broadband industry leaders. The discussion covers everything from digital equity and broadband funding to day-to-day responsibilities of broadband leaders. RELATED LINKS: Vernonburg GroupOoklaNWSAlex Jeffery, Senior Public Policy Manager, Vernonburg Group Linkedin ProfileBryan Darr, VP of Government Affairs, OoklaLee Morreale, Sales Executive, NWSPast Broadband Nation Expo podcasts episodes:On the road: Inside Broadband Nation Expo 2024 (Part 1)Broadband Nation Expo 2024: How broadband connectivity can help individuals become successful in the digital age

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our live coverage at the Broadband Nation Expo. We talk with two experts about the importance of broadband in many aspects of everyday life. Learn how connectivity is bringing more people together than ever before.  RELATED LINKS:Miami Dale College Eutelsat OnewebJorge Gonzalez, Business Innovation Center, Miami Dale College, Linkedin ProfileMartin Marshall, Senior Sales Engineer Services & Platforms, Eutelstat Oneweb, Linkedin Profile

On this episode of Connected Nation, we begin our coverage from Broadband Nation Expo. At this broadband conference attendees learn from 120+ industry and government leaders as they discuss relevant topics and supply them with tangible takeaways across 2 1/2 days of in-depth, high-quality programming.We speak with leaders in the industry about workforce development challenges, the parallels between wireless and wireline broadband, and upcoming broadband trends.RELATED LINKS:Broadband Nation ExpoTelecommunications Industry Association (TIA)Communication Devices, Inc.David Stehlin, CEO, TIA, Linkedin ProfileAdam Cady, VP Sales & Business Development, CDI, Linkedin Profile

On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with leadership at Total Telecom about a new event that's focused on connecting “every community in the Western US with next-generation communications infrastructure.”From cutting-edge technologies to proven broadband strategies – we'll find out what topics, speakers, and innovations you can expect to explore during the inaugural Broadband Communities Summit WEST.  Recommended Links:BBC WEST REGISTRATIONBrad Randall's LinkedIn

Today, we're gearing up for one of the most exciting events in the broadband space – the 2024 Broadband Nation Expo in Washington, D.C. On this episode, we are joined by leadership at Questex to discuss why this expo is where leaders and innovators come together to talk about the future of broadband and digital inclusion.Recommended Links:Broadband Nation Expo Registration LinkAlejandro's LinkedIn

On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with the broadband Director from Ohio to discuss the Buckeye state's broadband strategic plan and state grant program. PLUS we talk about how they are planning to use other federal funding to expand high-speed internet access. This episode concludes our coverage from Mountain Connect 2024, a broadband conference that brings together state broadband leaders from across the country, including more than 30 state broadband directors.Related Links: Mountain ConnectBroadbandOhio

On this episode of Connected Nation, we hear from a Connected Nation partner discussing IXPs and cross connect. PLUS we speak with the head of the state broadband office for Mississippi.  Related links:Newby Ventures - Internet Exchange PointsBroadband Expansion & Accessibility of Mississippi (BEAM)

On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with the director of state and local government partnerships@ready.net. Plus, we speak with a representative from the University of Illinois about the Illinois Broadband Lab, and we catch up with Digit to learn how the nonprofit is expanding its work to reach more Americans in need. Related Links:Ready.netIllinois Broadband Initiative, Univ. of IllinoisDigitunity

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from Mountain Connect, which is taking place in Denver, Colorado.We talk with leadership at Nokia, discussing the company's movement into rural America. It's networking, a box program, and the one thing everyone is getting wrong about the company. Recommended Links: Stefaan Vanhastel's LinkedInMore about "Network in a Box"

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from Mountain Connect, which is taking place in Denver, Colorado. I talk with a leader at the Fiber Optics Network about a issue regarding regulations and standards around a critical job when it comes to laying broadband. Plus, I talk with the leader of a new telecom school that's approaching training in a first of its kind way.Related Links: Mountain ConnectThe FO (Fiber Optics) NetworkTelecom Tech School

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from Mountain Connect, taking place in Denver, Colorado. We speak with an organization that's working in seven states that they call, the least connected in the country. Plus, we talk with researchers from the University of Chicago about the Internet Equity Initiative and get an update from MIHI office about connecting all Michiganders, even those who live in the most remote inhabited island in the state.Recommended Links:Catherine Krantz LinkedInAlexis Schrubbe LinkedInJessica Randall LinkedIn

On this episode of Connected Nation, we begin our coverage from Mountain Connect, a broadband conference that is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The theme this year, beyond the bandwidth, the power of broadband revolutionizing access. We begin by asking a question, what does a small ISP do if it needs big equipment? I found the answer. Plus find out why having a strong broadband resume is more important now than ever before.Related links:Mountain ConnectABS RentsKLJ Engineering & Planning

On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with Tony Grayson – a man who has held leadership roles at such tech giants as Amazon, Facebook, and Oracle – roles that are perhaps eclipsed by his time as a submarine captain.We'll explore his new approach to closing the Digital Divide in America; look at the  challenges of providing resources for growing needs of AI; and share how the skills of our nation's veterans can be better understood within and applied to high-tech jobs in the civilian workplace.Related links:Tony Grayson's LinkedIn - NOTE: Veterans, active military, and transitioning military are invited to connect with Tony directly.Compass Datacenters

On today's podcast, we talk with the CEO of DigitalC, a company that's offering lightning fast-internet to anyone in its service area for just 18-dollars a month, for five years! The service is 100 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload speeds.   Find out how that's been made possible through a unique partnership. Plus, we'll explore the community approach DigitalC takes – that's setting it apart from other, much larger I-S-P's. Recommended Links: DigitalC Website

On this episode of Connected Nation, we conclude our coverage from the National Association of Counties' (NACo) Conference and Exposition.  We sit down with NACo's  Legislative Director of Telecommunications and Technology and cover everything from county broadband needs to developing a toolkit on AI for county leaders.  Related links:NACo websiteThe County Compass - an AI toolkit for county leaders

On this special episode of Connected Nation, we talk with the head of government solutions for Esri; the national director for the public sector at Big Health; and a leader for Tunica County, Mississippi about the unique needs of his county, which includes six casinos. Related links:EsriBig HealthTunica County, Mississippi

On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk to the IT Director of Kent County, Delaware about what can be done to help transient populations. We also sit down with a representative from USDA Rural Development about what the organization can do to help rural areas do everything from improve their infrastructure to navigate the federal grant proces.  Related links:USDA Rural DevelopmentKent County, Delaware

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from the NACo conference. And you're going to love this episode. That's because we talked to two companies that are doing pretty innovative things to make your life more relaxed and stress-free. Related links:Daiwa massage chairs Advanced Robot SolutionsNACo's Achievement Award winners for 2024

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from the National Association of Counties Annual Conference and Exposition.  We begin by posing a question to you. Do you know what a "nope rope" is? Well, you're about to find out in our interview with Lucid Software.Also, we talk with the county manager of Columbia County, Florida about the challenges his county is facing when it comes to broadband access... and some of it is pretty unique. Related links:Lucid SoftwareColumbia County, Florida

On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our special coverage from the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference and Exposition. The event brings together county leaders from across the country share ideas, talk about challenges and what's next.  In this episode, we talk with leaders in the black community, including representatives from the National Organization of Black County Officials  (NOBCO) and a leader in one of the biggest counties in Tennessee.Related links:National Organization of Black County Officials (NOBCO)Shelby County, TennesseeWayne County, Michigan

On this episode of Connected Nation, we kick off a special series that takes you inside NACo's annual conference and exposition. NACo stands for the National Association of Counties and there are representatives from all over the nation who attend.In this series, we'll talk to everybody from national black community leaders to those who are doing some innovative things with AI for county leaders.Related links:Meet Claudia RicoFinley Engineering, Inc.Agile Fleet

On today's podcast – we welcome back a great guest from Season 4, the CEO of Fiber Fast Homes, a company that works directly with real estate developers and builders to connect homes and rental buildings to lightning-fast internet.Learn about the importance of pre-wiring new homes, whether MDUs or single-family developments, and why it is becoming paramount. Hear about the peculiarities of this task, the role of the HOA, and how this will prepare infrastructure for the next generation of connectivity.Recommended Links: Fiber Fast Homes WebsiteScott Sampson's LinkedIn

On today's episode of the Connected Nation Podcast, we  tackle what can be done to mitigate threats to our nation's internet networks – during natural disasters including an increase in cyberthreats.  We invite on leadership from Windstream Enterprise about the unique approach the company takes to stave off bad weather and bad actors during difficult times. Recommended Links:Windstream's WebsiteArt Nichols' LinkedIn