The Broadband Bunch

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Pete Pizzutillo joins Kim Morrison, Vice President of Growth and Customer Delivery, and Ben Poppie, Vice President of OSP, from Circet USA, at Fiber Connect 2025 in Nashville. Kim and Ben discuss Circet's transition from KGP Services and how the company is leveraging its European roots to expand its presence and capabilities in the U.S. market. They reflect on the current state of the fiber industry, including the continued uncertainty surrounding BEAD funding, supply chain volatility, and workforce availability. The conversation highlights how Circet is using AI-driven design tools, developed by their team in Ireland, to create more efficient and cost-effective fiber networks in the U.S. They also touch on the growing importance of integrated services, from network design to operations and maintenance, and the value customers place on turnkey solutions. As private equity interest in telecom shifts and market conditions evolve, Kim and Ben offer a grounded perspective on how experienced players are navigating challenges, maintaining optimism, and preparing for long-term growth.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live at FiberConnect 2025, host Pete Pizzutillo sits down with Janet Price, Director of Engineering for Telecon U.S. With over four decades of experience in the telecom industry, Janet shares her insights on the evolving landscape of fiber deployment, the impact of BEAD funding, and the importance of permitting and pre-construction planning in today's broadband projects. Janet discusses Telecon's turnkey approach to fiber network design and construction, including recent projects across the U.S., and how automation and AI are streamlining operations, saving time and improving accuracy. The conversation also touches on the growing diversity in the broadband workforce, her passion for mentorship, and the critical role of client education and collaboration in delivering successful fiber-to-the-home builds.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine sits down with Chris Draper, Board Chair at SafetAI, recorded live at day two of the Community Broadband Action Network (CBAN) conference in Ames, Iowa. With broadband providers increasingly overwhelmed by promises of “AI-infused” solutions, Chris brings clarity and expertise to the conversation around artificial intelligence in utilities and broadband. Drawing from his experience in high-risk technology environments—from rocket science to compliance in legal and government tech—Chris discusses the need for intentional, ethical AI implementation. He explores the "art of the possible" while highlighting the real-world risks of AI systems operating faster than human oversight can manage. Listeners will gain insight into how AI can amplify human action when deployed responsibly—especially in rural broadband and utility environments—and why now is the time to establish ethical frameworks before regulatory mandates catch up. Chris also shares his philosophy on data responsibility, automation pitfalls, the importance of transparency, and how SafetAI is helping organizations make informed decisions about AI adoption.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine sits down with Carl Guardino, Vice President of Government Affairs and Policy at Tarana Wireless, recorded at WISPAmerica 2025 in Oklahoma City. With a career spanning decades in public policy and leadership—including 24 years as CEO of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group—Carl brings a deep understanding of how innovation, advocacy, and infrastructure intersect in the fight to bridge the digital divide. Carl shares Tarana Wireless' origin story, which was born from a graduate research project at UC Berkeley by three international students determined to solve connectivity challenges in underserved communities. Now deployed in 24 countries and nearly every U.S. state, Tarana's cutting-edge fixed wireless technology delivers high-speed, low-latency broadband—even in non-line-of-sight conditions—offering a compelling and cost-effective alternative to traditional fiber. The conversation describes the critical four “legs of the broadband table”: affordability, reliability, high speed, and low latency. Carl emphasizes the need for technology-agnostic, standards-based solutions—especially with $42.5 billion in BEAD funds at stake—and explains why real-world demonstrations and direct engagement with state officials, tribal communities, and local ISPs are essential to success.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live from Fiber Connect 2025, host Brad Hine sits down with Stephen Rose, CEO of Render Networks, for a conversation about the evolving broadband landscape and the role of intelligent infrastructure. Stephen shares his journey from global telecom operations to leading innovation at Render, drawing on past leadership roles at IBM, Nokia, and the Nobel Prize-winning Nokia Bell Labs. The discussion covers a wide range of topics—from Render's latest industry partnerships with EXFO and VETRO FiberMap, to the impact of AI and automation in fiber network deployment. Stephen emphasizes the need for data transparency, cross-industry collaboration, and scalable software ecosystems to address challenges like labor shortages, cost overruns, and operational inefficiencies. Listeners will also get insights into Render's growing influence beyond telecommunications, including electric and utility sectors, and how Render's platform continues to drive digital transformation even after network builds are complete.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live at Fiber Connect 2025 in Nashville, host Brad Hine welcomes Charlene Gavel, President and CEO of SaskTel, to the show. Fresh from her "Operator Lightning Talk" presentation titled Lighting Up Saskatchewan, Charlene shares the remarkable journey of SaskTel—from its origins as a provincial telephone department in 1908 to its current role as a cutting-edge technology leader in Canada. Charlene reflects on her personal career path, including her early days as a CFO and her connection to SaskTel through her father, a 30-year employee. She offers insight into the unique challenges of delivering high-speed fiber to a population of just over 1 million people spread across a landmass the size of Texas. Despite the lack of scale, Charlene highlights how SaskTel's mission-driven approach as a Crown Corporation fuels innovation and prioritizes community outcomes. The conversation explores SaskTel's transition from a traditional telco to a forward-thinking “techco,” emphasizing infrastructure automation, OSS/BSS innovation through SaskTel International, and the need to monetize fiber investments through value-added services. Charlene also offers advice to aspiring leaders—especially women in tech—about using their voice, following their passion, and building strong, collaborative teams.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine sits down with Dr. Christopher Ali, the Pioneers Chair in Telecommunications and Associate Professor at Penn State's Bellisario College of Communications. Recorded live at the CBAN Spring Summit, the conversation explores the evolving landscape of broadband policy and BEAD funding. Dr. Ali offers a grounded perspective on what it will truly take to close the digital divide, emphasizing the need for realistic timelines, long-term infrastructure planning, and a balanced approach that integrates both fiber and wireless technologies. He discusses the vital role of middle-mile infrastructure, particularly the untapped potential of electric cooperatives to deliver broadband to underserved communities. The episode also touches on the importance of digital literacy, affordability, and the dangers of sunset clauses that can undermine ongoing connectivity. Dr. Ali shares insights into his upcoming “Broadband Stories” project, which aims to highlight the human impact of broadband through real-world narratives.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live at Fiber Connect 2025 in Nashville, host Brad Hine sits down with Justin Suhr, Senior Director of Construction Engineering at Great Plains Communications. With over two decades of experience in telecom and a deep background in fiber deployment and outside plant engineering, Justin shares insights on the company's transformation from a 115-year-old telephone provider into a modern fiber-forward operator. They dive into the evolution of broadband deployment strategies in the face of paused BEAD funding, the shift toward multi-gigabit services, the role of AI and system integration in field operations, and the importance of digital transformation across construction and customer service. Justin also reflects on his personal journey in the industry, from field engineering to leadership, and how Great Plains is tackling both urban and rural broadband challenges through strategic planning, software integration, and a forward-thinking approach to workforce development.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live at the CBAN Annual Conference in Ames, Iowa, host Brad Hine sits down with broadband leader and digital equity advocate Deb Socia. Recently retired from her role as CEO of The Enterprise Center in Chattanooga, Deb shares insights from her decades of experience supporting community broadband, digital inclusion, and infrastructure development. They discuss the importance of early and strategic marketing for broadband builds, challenges around funding and predictability for ISPs and nonprofits, and the evolving role of local ownership in fostering digital equity and community pride. Deb shares stories—from seniors learning to FaceTime their grandchildren to middle school students mapping free Wi-Fi hotspots—that highlight how connectivity transforms lives. They also touch on the value of storytelling and data in building stakeholder support, the influence of education on community tech adoption, and how to cultivate the next generation of broadband leaders. This conversation offers a blend of policy perspective, community insight, and actionable advice for anyone working to bridge the digital divide.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine welcomes back a true pioneer in the broadband space—Heather Gold, Principal at HBG Strategies and former President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association. With a career spanning over 40 years across XO Communications, Sprint, ALTS, NTS, and more, Heather shares unparalleled insights into the evolution of broadband, the regulatory landscape, and the current fiber deployment challenges facing the industry. Recorded live at Fiber Connect 2025, Heather reflects on her time at the helm of the FBA, the genesis of Women in Fiber, and key takeaways from the recent NTIA guidance and its impact on BEAD funding and rural broadband deployment. She also discusses the long-term ROI of fiber over alternative technologies like fixed wireless and LEO satellites, leadership lessons from her executive roles, and her advocacy journey from financial analyst to industry thought leader. From policy shifts to permitting bottlenecks and workforce gaps, this episode is packed with actionable insights, historical perspective, and candid advice—especially for emerging professionals in the telecom space.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, recorded live at WISPAmerica 2025 in Oklahoma City, host Brad Hine sits down with Cameron Kilton, CTO of Nextlink, for a conversation about AI, automation, and the future of broadband in rural America. Cameron shares his journey from Maine to Texas, helping scale Nextlink from 38,000 to over 100,000 subscribers across 10+ states. He dives into the practical use of AI in network operations—from predictive churn and sentiment analysis to internal tools that speed up diagnostics and ensure data integrity. Cameron also offers candid insights on the difference between real AI and automation hype, the importance of internal innovation, and why his team values initiative over degrees.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live at Fiber Connect 2025, Pete Pizzutillo sits down with Denise Manka, Vice President of Business Development at MP Nexlevel. Denise shares her journey from the housing industry to telecom construction, and how MP Nexlevel's deep roots, culture, and national reach set them apart in the broadband landscape. They discuss the evolving infrastructure needs driven by AI and data center growth, the urgency of disaster preparedness in telecom, and why the industry shouldn't wait on BEAD funding to take action. Denise also previews MP Nexlevel's upcoming broadband emergency response initiative, set to debut at Mountain Connect, and calls for smarter fiber builds and more proactive public policy to keep pace with digital demands.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch recorded live from Fiber Connect 2025, host Pete Pizzutillo chats with Craig Thomas of Broadband Forum about the critical role of standards in today's broadband landscape. They explore how interoperability supports smaller operators, the importance of data in enabling AI, and the shift from hardware to software-defined services. Craig also discusses challenges in open access networks—from security and service assurance to differentiation.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live at Fiber Connect 2025 in Nashville, host Brad Hine sits down with Anis Khemakhem, Chief Marketing Officer of Clearfield. With over 25 years of experience in telecommunications and technology, Anis shares his unique perspective on the evolution of fiber networks, customer-driven innovation, and the future of connectivity. The conversation explores Clearfield's commitment to labor-light, plug-and-play solutions that accelerate deployment and reduce operational bottlenecks, especially in underserved and rural communities. Anis also emphasizes the importance of listening to customers to drive product design, preparing networks for the demands of IoT and edge computing, and supporting the next generation of broadband technicians with tools like Clearfield's new built app and VR-based training. Additional topics include BABA compliance, domestic manufacturing, the impact of AI on infrastructure planning, and how Clearfield is addressing the growing need for modular, high-density fiber solutions in data centers and central offices.

In this special edition of The Broadband Bunch, co-hosts Brad Hine and Pete Pizzutillo break down the biggest takeaways from one of the industry's most influential events, Fiber Connect 2025. With over 5,000 attendees and 320+ exhibitors, the conference was packed with energy, insights, and future-shaping discussions. Brad and Pete dive into everything from the status of BEAD funding and shifting investment trends, to AI readiness, workforce evolution, and the growing importance of industry partnerships and interoperability. They also preview several upcoming podcast interviews recorded live at the event—featuring voices from Nokia, Clearfield, Render Networks, RouteThis, Sastel, Great Plains Communications, CDG, and many more. Whether you attended or not, this episode captures the pulse of Fiber Connect 2025 and offers a clear-eyed look at where the broadband industry is heading next.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine talks with Tim Ayers, co-founder of Gravity Path Partners, recorded live at Connected America 2025. With over 30 years in telecom and tech, Tim unpacks the growing role of edge computing—how it's reshaping broadband infrastructure, enabling AI and low-latency applications, and becoming critical for future-ready networks. They explore the repurposing of central offices into edge data centers, the need for distributed compute power, and why underserved communities must plan beyond just broadband to avoid an AI and quantum divide. Tim also shares how Gravity Path helps operators navigate growth, M&A, and expansion into the data center sector.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live from Connected America 2025, host Brad Hine sits down with Edyn Rolls, Chief Strategic Officer and founding member of the Oklahoma Broadband Office. As a key leader driving the state's broadband expansion efforts, Edyn shares insights into Oklahoma's $500 million deployment of ARPA funds, the BEAD subgrantee selection process, and how the state is adapting to shifting federal policies. They dive into strategies for serving rural and tribal communities, replacing the now-defunct Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), and balancing fiber ambitions with real-world terrain challenges. Edyn also opens up about her personal broadband journey—from grant-writing novice to statewide broadband leader—and the passion she brings to ensuring equitable access for every Oklahoman.

In this episode, host Brad Hine reports live from the show floor at Connected America 2025 in Irving, Texas. He's joined by returning guest Brad Randall, editor at Total Telecom and chair of the event. Together, they unpack the energy on the expo floor and dive into the rapidly evolving broadband landscape. From the political uncertainty surrounding the BEAD program to equity concerns and the future of infrastructure investment, this conversation captures the mood of the industry in real time. They discuss the impact of policy shifts, the challenges federal agencies face under the new administration, and how industry events like Connected America and the upcoming Broadband Communities Summit in Houston play a critical role in uniting stakeholders.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine is joined by Rusty Williams, President and CEO of the Utilities Technology Council (UTC), for a preview of the 2025 UTC Annual Conference, taking place June 16–19 in Long Beach, California. With over 30 years of experience spanning utilities, telecom, IT, and network integration, Rusty shares a behind-the-scenes look at this year's event—from its deep-rooted history and evolving educational programming to exciting keynote speakers, including Southern California Edison's Todd Inlander and FCC Commissioner Nathan Simington. You will learn about key themes such as AI in utilities, managing legacy infrastructure, spectrum and wireless connectivity, the launch of UTC's new cybersecurity program ARMOR, and the highly anticipated UTC Academy—a training initiative designed to close the skills gap in utility telecom and IT operations.

Recorded live at the NTCA's 2025 R-TIME Conference in San Antonio, this episode of The Broadband Bunch features a conversation between host Brad Hine and Roxie Jorgenson—Chair of the NTCA Board of Directors and owner of Roxberry LLC. Roxie shares the latest from NTCA's new strategic plan, covering universal service funding, BEAD rollout challenges, and the critical need for workforce development in rural America. Drawing from her 25+ years in leadership and her work with Roxbury LLC, she explains how broken relationships—within organizations and with customers—often hold companies back from growth. Her programs like the Client Loyalty Accelerator™ and Trust-to-Profit™ system offer actionable strategies to reduce attrition, align teams, and turn relationships into long-term revenue.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, Jay Cadman, SVP at IQGeo, joins host Brad Hine to discuss how geospatial intelligence and AI are transforming broadband operations. Jay shares insights from his 30+ year career in telecom, highlighting the importance of accurate data, digital twins, and connecting field and office teams. Learn how IQGeo helps network operators—from major carriers to small ISPs—improve efficiency, reduce errors, and future-proof their infrastructure.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Pete Pizzutillo welcomes leaders from Bonfire Infrastructure Group: CEO Brian Hollister, CMO Nick Dinsmoor, and Director of Business Development Drew Pappas. They discuss Bonfire's mission to deliver sustainable, reliable broadband to underserved communities and unpack the innovative Broadband Mystery Tour—an interactive educational experience designed to help stakeholders understand the full broadband lifecycle, from planning and engineering to construction and operations. The team shares how their hands-on, Scooby-Doo-themed approach fosters collaboration, sparks creative problem-solving, and builds lasting partnerships across the broadband ecosystem. They also reflect on the importance of authenticity, community engagement, and mission-driven work in a rapidly evolving industry. Plus, hear how Bonfire's podcast Broadband Heroes continues to highlight changemakers in the field.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine welcomes Fayyaz Patwa, VP of Sales Engineering for Nokia, to discuss the latest innovations driving rural broadband expansion. With over 20 years of telecom experience, Fayyaz shares insights from his recent travels, highlighting how AI and next-generation fiber solutions are shaping the industry. The conversation covers Nokia's work with regional providers, the importance of future-proof fiber deployments, and real-world success stories. They also explore the growing role of data centers in rural America, how fixed and wireless technologies are closing the digital divide, and what's next on the roadmap for passive optical networks, including 25G, 50G, and 100G PON.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine previews Fiber Connect 2025 with Richard Williams, President & CEO of Connect2 Communications, and Evann Freeman, VP of Government & Community Relations at EPB Chattanooga and Fiber Connect Conference Chair. They discuss what's new at this year's event—including 300+ speakers, expanded operator Light Talks, tribal broadband sessions, and the premiere of the Thought Waves documentary featuring internet pioneer Vint Cerf. Plus, get the inside scoop on the expo, Smart Home Open House, OpTIC Path rodeo, and can't-miss social events like karaoke night and the Glow Party.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine welcomes Elizabeth Brown, Marketing Manager at PTCI, and Brandon Johnson, VP of Sales at GOCare, for a discussion on how rural broadband providers are transforming the customer experience through digital communication tools, integration strategies, and real-time support. Elizabeth shares how PTCI's “Year of the Customer” initiative evolved into a long-term commitment to service excellence—driven by esports events, smart agriculture solutions, AI-powered coaching tools, and a focus on meeting customers where they are, especially in Oklahoma's rural communities. Brandon explains how GOCare's unified communication platform empowers service providers by integrating chat, SMS, social, and backend systems into a single interface, dramatically improving customer engagement and responsiveness. From rural innovation and AI call coaching to the future of NTCA's marketing mission, this episode offers a thoughtful look into how small-town ISPs are leading big changes in broadband service delivery.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, recorded live at Connected America 2025, host Brad Hine catches up with Curtis Dean, president of SmartSource Consulting and co-founder of the Community Broadband Action Network (CBAN). They discuss smart ag technologies, the critical role of data ownership and AI in agriculture, and the intersection of broadband and food security. Curtis also previews the upcoming CBAN/IAMU Spring Summit and shares insights into community-driven broadband initiatives.

In this episode, host Brad Hine sits down with Tammy Wellbrock, a seasoned telecom leader, speaker, and connector, to explore her journey back to broadband after more than a decade away. Now leading sales for Nex-Tech Creative, Tammy shares how the in-house ad agency is helping rural broadband providers and local businesses grow through strategic marketing. They also discuss highlights from Tammy's recent RTIME sessions on leadership and board relationships, the importance of effective communication, and why balancing humor with information can be a game-changer when connecting with teams and communities.

In this episode, Brad Hine chats with Barry Walton of Corning—a 40-year broadband veteran—about tackling rural deployment challenges, workforce development, and how Corning is helping connect the unconnected. From stories in the field to insights on permitting, edge data centers, and scalable solutions, this conversation is packed with wisdom and future-focused strategies. Recorded live at NTCA's 2025 RTIME Conference in San Antonio.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine chats with Mike Roddy, CEO of GOCare, about the evolution of customer support in the broadband industry. They explore how omnichannel strategies—unifying support across phone, chat, SMS, and more—can reduce churn, boost satisfaction, and streamline operations. With decades of industry insight, Mike shares how GOCare is helping providers deliver the seamless, data-driven experiences today's customers expect.

In this episode, host Pete Pizzutillo sits down with John Barlow, Director of Strategic Accounts at Consult Red, to explore the evolving broadband landscape. They discuss the shift from speed-focused competition to value-added services, the role of smart routers, and how operators can differentiate and future-proof their offerings. John also shares insights on broadband's convergence with utilities, the impact of AI, and the launch of his own podcast, Simply Connected.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, Sachin Gupta, VP of Business & Technology Strategies at CREC/Centranet, discusses the critical need for broadband in tribal communities. He shares insights on the Sac and Fox Nation's groundbreaking 50Gbps fiber project, rural broadband challenges, and the future of BEAD funding and private investment. Sachin also reflects on his journey into broadband leadership and his selection for the Presidential Leadership Scholar Class of 2025.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, host Pete Pizzutillo sits down with Scott Menhart, Chief Technology and Information Officer at Traverse City Light and Power, to discuss the transformation of a traditional electric utility into a broadband provider. Scott shares the journey of deploying fiber infrastructure, overcoming challenges from incumbents, and gaining strong community support for municipal broadband. He also provides insights into customer service, reliability, affordability, and future-proofing networks for the digital age. Tune in to hear how Traverse City Light and Power is bridging the connectivity gap and what's next for their broadband expansion.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine welcomes Catherine Nicolaou, Broadband Program Manager for the City of Albuquerque. Catherine shares insights into her groundbreaking role as the city's first broadband manager, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of expanding broadband access in a diverse and rapidly growing region. She discusses Albuquerque's digital equity initiatives, partnerships with tribal nations, and the city's proactive stance on infrastructure development. Catherine also reflects on her personal journey in the broadband industry, her family's deep ties to rural telecommunications, and the impact of connectivity on communities. Tune in to learn how Albuquerque is setting a new standard for municipal broadband strategy and digital inclusion.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, Pete Pizzutillo speaks with Jeremiah Sloan, a former CEO turned consultant, about the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in the broadband industry. Jeremiah shares his journey of scaling rural broadband operations, the importance of interoperability and high-quality data, and how broadband providers can adapt to meet evolving consumer expectations. Packed with practical insights, this episode explores how to navigate transformation while fostering employee buy-in and staying competitive in a dynamic market.

In this special Crystal Ball episode of the Broadband Bunch Podcast, hosts Pete Pizzutillo and Brad Hine, joined by Jason Pond of Mountain Freedom Coaching, explore the future of broadband and technology. From the rise of telehealth and AI-driven solutions to gaming innovations and broadband's evolving consumer landscape, this episode dives into key trends shaping 2025. Discover actionable insights for small ISPs and tech enthusiasts alike.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine speaks with Carter Old, CEO of Lyte Fiber, a Houston-based ISP revolutionizing broadband deployment in Texas. Carter shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey, including building companies across fiber, satellite, and AI technologies. They explore the evolving broadband landscape, investment challenges, and operational strategies for ISPs, highlighting Lyte Fiber's launch in Baytown, Texas, and its ambitious expansion plans. Recorded on Veterans Day, the conversation also touches on Carter's Navy background and its impact on his leadership style.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine chats with Todd McCrum, Senior VP and General Manager of AOI, about the latest innovations unveiled at SCTE Tech Expo 2024. Todd discusses AOI's groundbreaking Quantum 18 smart amplifiers and their Quantum Link technology, which offer unprecedented remote troubleshooting and operational efficiency for cable networks. With over 30 years in the industry, Todd also shares insights on AOI's evolution, the impact of AI on broadband infrastructure, and the future of network management, smart homes, and the broadband landscape.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine welcomes John Meyer, CMO of Gateway Fiber. With over 20 years of marketing expertise spanning Fortune 500 companies, startups, and telecommunications, John shares the remarkable growth story of Gateway Fiber. From its humble beginnings as a six-employee startup to becoming a competitive force in Missouri, Minnesota, and Massachusetts, Gateway Fiber is redefining broadband with its mission of providing fairer, friendlier, and faster internet. John discusses their customer-first approach, innovative marketing strategies, and the power of community engagement. He also offers insights into overcoming industry challenges, building strong team culture, and maintaining a customer-centric focus in a competitive landscape.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine engages with Maria Popo, President and CEO of SCTE. Maria discusses her strategic initiatives in her first year as CEO, particularly her focus on integrating advanced technologies like AI into SCTE's operations to enhance training and standards development. She also reflects on the impact of mentorship and community in building a future-ready workforce in the broadband industry. Listen in to hear how Maria is steering SCTE to foster innovation and growth across the industry.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded at Broadband Communities West in San Diego, host Brad Hine sits down with Jonathan Delahoyde, Senior Manager of Fiber-to-the-Premise Deployment Strategy at Hawaiian Telcom. They dive into the unique challenges of deploying broadband across Hawaii's diverse terrain— from lava fields and rainforests to aging urban infrastructure— and discuss the importance of building future-proof networks. Jonathan also shares insights on funding strategies, transitioning to an all-fiber network, and his own career journey from digging trenches in Tampa to leading broadband expansion in Hawaii. Tune in for an engaging discussion on overcoming deployment obstacles, managing large-scale projects, and the adventure of broadband expansion in one of the most geographically complex regions in the U.S.

Live from Broadband Communities West in San Diego, The Broadband Bunch host Brad Hine chats with industry veterans Bob Knight (Harry Marketing) and Kim McKinley (Chief of Staff at TAK Communications ). Known as the “Broadband Besties,” they share 20 fun and insightful broadband marketing tips in 20 minutes, from community engagement to authentic branding. This episode is packed with laughs, wisdom, and practical strategies for ISPs.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, Brad Hine speaks with Joseph Le at the San Diego Convention Center during Broadband Communities West. Joe provides insights into Kansas's broadband programs, including their BEAD initiatives, and shares how eligible entities can apply through their BEAD application portal. Tune in for valuable updates on expanding broadband access and fostering connectivity in Kansas.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine interviews Jay Lee, CTO and CSO at ATX, live from SCTE's Tech Expo 2024 in Atlanta. Jay shares insights on ATX's GigaXtend platform, which enhances HFC networks for next-generation DOCSIS standards, enabling efficient capacity upgrades for cable operators. They discuss the advantages of ATX's smart amplifiers and transponder technology for remote network management, as well as innovative energy storage solutions that reduce costs for MSOs. Jay highlights the importance of partnerships and real-time data analytics in helping operators improve reliability and customer experience in the competitive broadband market.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine chats with Doug Blue from Nokia Business Development of North America, live from Tech Expo 24 in Atlanta. In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, host Brad Heine chats with Doug Blue from Nokia Business Development of North America, live from Tech Expo 24 in Atlanta. Doug discusses Nokia's recent advancements, including the launch of their DOCSIS Provisioning Adapter designed to enhance cable operators' shift to advanced fiber technologies. He also reflects on his vast experience in the telecom tech space, providing valuable insights into the industry's evolution.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine talks with Jeremy Huhman, Senior Director of Operations at Vyve Broadband, live from SCTE's Tech Expo 2024. Jeremy shares insights from his session on HFC-to-fiber transitions, discussing the strategic and economic challenges broadband providers face in upgrading legacy networks. With over 15 years in the industry, he reflects on his journey from the Army to telecom, emphasizing the role of training, certification, and a career-focused workforce. The conversation also explores how evolving consumer demands and new technologies are shaping the broadband landscape, offering listeners a snapshot of broadband's future.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live at SCTE Tech Expo 2024 in Atlanta, host Joe Coldebella chats with Roy Pereira, Assistant VP of Digital Technology at Cox Communications, about the transformative impact of AI in broadband. This episode explores how AI is enhancing network performance, improving customer experiences, and reshaping the telecom landscape. Roy shares insights on balancing innovation with regulation, AI's role in predictive maintenance, and what the future holds as AI becomes central to broadband technology.

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, hosted by Brad Hine, Jason Pond, a veteran in the broadband industry, discusses his new venture, Mountain Freedom Coaching. Jason reflects on his experience with Grizzly Broadband, which he sold to a local power cooperative, emphasizing the transition from wireless to fiber technologies and the strategic advantages of such partnerships. He introduces his holistic business coaching approach, aimed at enhancing leadership, financial acumen, operations, and personal growth among ISP leaders. Jason highlights the importance of self-development in achieving effective leadership and customer satisfaction, advocating for a supportive community that fosters growth and efficiency in the broadband sector.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, host Pete Pizzutillo is live from Connected Britain 2024, joined by Dan Gledhill, Senior Vice President of Broadband at Harmonic. Dan shares his journey of helping broadband operators deploy faster, more efficient networks, and the innovative steps Harmonic is taking to reshape the fiber broadband landscape. Tune in as they discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of open access networks, the convergence of fiber and cable technologies, and the importance of customer experience in shaping the future of broadband. From rural broadband in the U.S. to high-density fiber deployments in the UK, Dan provides insights into the trends, lessons, and transformations driving the industry forward.

This episode of the Broadband Bunch features host Brad Hine broadcasting live from Mountain Connect 2024 in Denver, Colorado. Brad is joined by Jess Gilbert, the Director of Marketing and Communications at Matanuska Telecom Association (MTA) based in Palmer, Alaska. Jess discusses MTA's unique challenges and initiatives in extending broadband in rural Alaska, including their innovative approach to integrating eSports into their community engagement and their adaptation to local wildlife and environmental considerations in infrastructure projects. The episode explores the evolving landscape of rural broadband deployment, particularly how MTA is addressing the needs of a younger demographic while respecting cultural and ecological sensitivities unique to Alaska.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch podcast, host Pete Pizzutillo is live from Connected Britain 2024, joined by John Duncan, the Connected Places Lead for the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. John shares insights from his journey across public and private sectors, his role in driving connectivity and digital inclusion for Greater Manchester, and the innovative use of IoT in social housing. They explore the challenges and opportunities of bridging the digital divide, fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, and the region's vision for future-proofing its digital infrastructure. Tune in for a discussion on the intersection of technology and community development in the UK.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, recorded live from Connected Britain 2024, host Pete Pizzutillo interviews Dan Bloch, Senior Vice President of Global Solutions at Calix. Dan shares insights into the rapidly evolving broadband landscape, discussing Calix's transformation from a hardware-focused company to a software-driven solutions provider. He talks about industry trends like the shift towards persona-based services, the importance of customer-centric innovation, and the need for broadband providers to move beyond just offering connectivity. Dan also explores the impact of government funding on broadband expansion and the challenges of differentiating services in competitive markets like the U.S. and the U.K.