Podcasts about mountain connect

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.

Our ongoing podcast series that brings together leaders (heroes) in the broadband space to educate, connect, inspire, and entertain. In this high-energy episode of the Broadband Heroes podcast, Nick is joined by Peter Voderberg, Chief of Broadband Ohio, and Drew Lovell, Acting Director of New Mexico's Broadband Access and Expansion Office. They discuss the crucial role their state offices play in bringing high-speed internet to underserved communities, managing large grant programs, and ensuring accountability. Learn how broadband offices are tackling infrastructure challenges, closing the digital divide, and driving digital equity for everyone. Recorded at Mountain Connect.  Learn more about the series at https://bonfireig.com/broadband-heroes/

Our ongoing podcast series that brings together leaders (heroes) in the broadband space to educate, connect, inspire, and entertain. In this episode of Broadband Heroes, recorded at Mountain Connect, we dive into how technology and software are transforming broadband network construction. Host Nick is joined by Duke Horan (President of Bonfire Engineering & Construction), Tim Axelsson (VP of Ociusx), and Dane Dooley (Senior Project Manager at Bonfire) to discuss how platforms like Ocius are simplifying project management, improving accountability, and reducing risk in broadband deployment. Learn how these tools optimize workflows, track progress in real time, and ensure safety—all while making broadband expansion more efficient and reliable. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how modern software is reshaping the industry! Learn more about the series at https://bonfireig.com/broadband-heroes/

Our ongoing podcast series that brings together leaders (heroes) in the broadband space to educate, connect, inspire, and entertain. In this episode of Broadband Heroes, we're live from Mountain Connect with industry experts Megan Beresford (Learn Design Apply), Bill Blackford (CEO, Farmers Telephone & FTI Wi-Fi), and Jackie English (Product Manager, Bonfire Fiber). Together, we dive deep into the concept of Open Access in broadband networks, the importance of competition, funding challenges, and how innovative partnerships can bring high-speed internet to underserved communities. Tune in as we explore how Open Access can reshape broadband services, improve customer experience, and promote digital equity. Plus, a bonus conversation on the future of AI! Learn more about the series at https://bonfireig.com/broadband-heroes/

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, host Brad Hine sits down with Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend at Mountain Connect 2024. They discuss the unique broadband challenges faced by Northern California, including regulatory hurdles, difficult topography, and infrastructure needs. Zach shares insights on how local governments are addressing these issues and the innovative solutions being implemented to improve connectivity for residents.

In this episode, Brad Hine interviews Lori Adams from Nokia at Mountain Connect 2024 in Denver, Colorado. Lori provides key updates on Build America, Buy America (BABA) compliance and its implications for manufacturers, state governments, and applicants of the BEAD program. She explains the recent NTIA guidelines on self-certification, reporting requirements, and compliance enforcement, sharing Nokia's approach to meeting these standards. Lori also discusses how BABA impacts project costs, labor availability, and timelines, providing valuable insights for those navigating the complexities of federal broadband programs. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. To learn more: https://pages.nokia.com/T009BA-build-america-buy-america-what-you-need-to-know-today.html

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 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 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 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 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, 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 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

In this episode, Joe Coldebella chats with Jeff Gavlinski, CEO of Mountain Connect, to discuss the upcoming 10th anniversary of the event which happens Aug 5-7 in Denver Colorado. Mountain Connect features a range of keynote and breakout sessions focused on the evolving broadband industry. This year's event will spotlight BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) with participation from 30 state broadband offices. Key sessions include a Broadband 101 introduction session, and various tracks providing diverse perspectives on broadband issues. Click now to hear what's happening at Mountain Connect 2024. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. To learn about the event: https://mountainconnect.org

In this episode, we're delighted to have Jeff Gavlinski, the CEO of Mountain Connect, as our guest. Jeff underscores the pressing necessity for visionary thinking, fostering innovation, and embracing fresh prospects within the broadband sector. He serves as a catalyst in ensuring that the industry remains at the forefront of technological advancements and adapts to address the demands of the digital era. Jeff isn't afraid to stir the pot and share his thoughts on how we're doing as an industry. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

Welcome to IoT Coffee Talk #170 where we have a chat about all things IoT over a cup of coffee or two with some of the industry's leading business minds, thought leaders and technologists in a totally unscripted, organic format. Thanks for joining us. Sit back with a cup of Joe and enjoy the morning banter.In this week's episode, Bill, Stephanie, Rob, Leonard and special guest, Jeff Gavlinkski of Mountain Connect, jump into the metaverse to Party Up! (R.I.P. DMX) and talk about BEAD and how Rob and Leonard live in underserved communities that are supposed to be "5G coverage" areas. We talk about the importance of the maps and data that may or may not do a great job of helping us figure out where billions in U.S. Federal funding goes to connect EVERYONE! How do we assure that we minimize fraud and waste and arm communities and service providers with the technologies and know-how to deploy the "best" connectivity solutions to build out their infrastructure? What role will 5G play and will it live up enough to expectations to bridge the digital divide reliably and at a low cost.Find out why Rob is WMX, DMX's alter ego.Can we do better than Emergency SOS in light of the tragedy in Maui and other places that have and will suffer natural and unnatural catastrophe?We also delve into the complexities and challenges of planning, designing, and implementing heterogeneous connectivity solutions that keep costs low and help projects meet their BEAD commitments to the U.S. government and ultimately taxpayers who are fronting the bill to foster connected equity.You will want to watch this one all the way through. The nuggets are hidden and could make all the difference in your business, so we hope you will take your time. Also, check out Mountain Connect at www.mountainconnect.io. It is a great conference. Reach out to Jeff Gavlinski to find out more. Great ready to get real!Thanks for listening to us! Watch episodes at http://iotcoffeetalk.com/. Your hosts include Leonard Lee, Stephanie Atkinson, Marc Pous, David Vasquez, Rob Tiffany, Bill Pugh, Rick Bullotta and special guests. We support Elevate Our Kids to bridge the digital divide by bringing K-12 computing devices and connectivity to support kids' education in under-resourced communities. Please donate.

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 shaping policies to bring high-speed internet to underserved areas, making him a visionary in the field. His dedication as an educator, author, and advocate is driving the push for a more connected world. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch podcast on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. Dr. Ali's Book is available on Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Farm-Fresh-Broadband-Connectivity-Information/dp/0262543060

The Beer & Broadband Roundtable series is a discussion series bringing together leaders in the broadband and infrastructure space to share their thoughts without egos, agendas, or selling. This is a special episode of the Beer & Broadband Roundtable series, hosted during the highly anticipated Mountain Connect Event! In this episode of "Beer and Broadband," Nick is live at Mountain Connect, bringing together a panel of experts to discuss the transformational impact of open-access fiber networks in rural America. Join Nick and his guests: Bill Blackford from Farmers Telephone, Josh Orlowitz from Bonfire Fiber and Mike Edl from Bonfire Fiber as they explore the exciting possibilities and challenges of bridging the digital divide. Discover how open-access models are reshaping the rural broadband landscape, leveling the playing field, and fostering community growth. The episode delves into the trust and accountability factors that drive successful collaborations, the economic benefits for municipalities and ISPs, and the role of reliable connectivity in attracting both residents and businesses to underserved areas. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the potential of fiber to connect communities and drive positive change. We have joining us: Bill Blackford - General Manager of Farmers Telephone/Farmers Telecommunications Josh Orlowitz - Director of Corporate Strategy at Bonfire Fiber Mike Edl - Vice President Operations at Bonfire Fiber Nick Dinsmoor - Host of Beer and Broadband

The Beer & Broadband Roundtable series is a discussion series bringing together leaders in the broadband and infrastructure space to share their thoughts without egos, agendas, or selling. This is a special episode of the Beer & Broadband Roundtable series, hosted during the highly anticipated Mountain Connect Event! In this episode, join us for an engaging conversation as we delve into the world of broadband connectivity with a diverse group of experts. Recorded live at the Mountain Connect event, this episode features Manuel Gomez, the Fiber and Broadband Director of Holy Cross Energy; Bill Blackford, General Manager and CEO of Farmers Telephone and FTI Wi-Fi; and Drew Pappas, Director of Business Development at Bonfire. Together, they discuss the dynamic landscape of broadband infrastructure, its role in powering resilient communities, and the challenges faced by various types of organizations, from co-ops to private providers. Discover how initiatives like middle-mile networks are bridging the gap between urban and rural areas, the urgency driving the expansion of broadband services, and the complex balance between short-term funding and long-term sustainability. Tune in to gain insights into the evolving world of broadband and the critical decisions that shape its future. We have joining us: Manuel Gomez - Fiber and Broadband Director at Holy Cross Energy Bill Blackford - General Manager at Farmers Telephone/Farmers Telecommunications Drew Pappas - Director of Business Development at Bonfire Infrastructure Group Nick Dinsmoor - Host of Beer and Broadband

Welcome to IoT Coffee Talk #169 where we have a chat about all things IoT over a cup of coffee or two with some of the industry's leading business minds, thought leaders and technologists in a totally unscripted, organic format. Thanks for joining us. Sit back with a cup of Joe and enjoy the morning banter.Rob, Bill, and Leonard attended Mountain Connect 2023 in Denver and somehow found themselves on stage with an unwitting Jeff Lewis as well as event CEO, Jeff Gavlinsky. Everyone else got walk on music but we didn't so we went DMX on everyone with a little "Party Up!". This was the first time that IoT Coffee Talk was live on stage at a conference keynote. Yes, we recorded a live session at IoT Stars earlier this year. You should check that episode out as well.We had a great chance to talk about the digital divide and the role that the BEAD program will have in bridging it. The team works through some of the key challenges that will face municipalities and communities as they apply for grants and go through the tough work of getting the infrastructure up to deliver services to every household in the U.S. But equity transcends infrastructure. How do we achieve equity through the massive public-private endeavor that is BEAD? Great ready to get real! Make sure to check out Mountain Connect 2023 and consider attending next year to get the latest and the greatest in broadband U.S.A.!Thanks for listening to us! Watch episodes at http://iotcoffeetalk.com/. Your hosts include Leonard Lee, Stephanie Atkinson, Marc Pous, David Vasquez, Rob Tiffany, Bill Pugh, Rick Bullotta and special guests. We support Elevate Our Kids to bridge the digital divide by bringing K-12 computing devices and connectivity to support kids' education in under-resourced communities. Please donate.

Welcome to IoT Coffee Talk #168 where we have a chat about all things IoT over a cup of coffee or two with some of the industry's leading business minds, thought leaders and technologists in a totally unscripted, organic format. Thanks for joining us. Sit back with a cup of Joe and enjoy the morning banter.In this week's episode, Leonard and David jump into the metaverse to talk about the real attempt by the Federal government to bridge the digital divide from Mountain Connect 2023, the largest conference on rural broadband in the U.S. Leonard provides an update on the BEAD program and the process that municipalities, vendors, and service providers need to go through to get that funding. David and Leonard talk about the technologies that are available to enable the many options that BEAD recipients have to deploy broadband to each and every American when trenching fiber gets extremely costly.Thanks for listening to us! Watch episodes at http://iotcoffeetalk.com/. Your hosts include Leonard Lee, Stephanie Atkinson, Marc Pous, David Vasquez, Rob Tiffany, Bill Pugh, Rick Bullotta and special guests. We support Elevate Our Kids to bridge the digital divide by bringing K-12 computing devices and connectivity to support kids' education in under-resourced communities. Please donate.

This week on the podcast, Christopher is joined by Jeff Gavlinski, CEO of Mountain Connect to preview this year's event. During the conversation, the two talk about what makes Mountain Connect different from other broadband conferences, what's on deck for this year, and Jeff's perspective on larger trends in the broadband industry. They also discuss … Continue reading "Previewing Mountain Connect 2022 – Episode 503 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast"

In this episode Pete and Christopher talk about the importance of conferences both national and regional like Mountain Connect. They tackle the all important question of digital literacy and touch on the importance of inclusion. Click now to listen. Also, be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode of the Broadband Bunch!

The Broadband Bunch attended this year's Mountain Connect, one of the industry best regional shows. Pete chats with Jeff Gavlinski, CEO and the driving force behind this incredibly successful event. They talk about the conference and issues important to the entire broadband industry. Click now to listen. Also, be sure to subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

Mountain Connect returns to an in-person event after a two-year hiatus in beautiful Keystone, Colorado. Our guest today is the the director and chief architect behind Mountain Connect, Jeff Gavlinski. Mountain Connect is an agnostic event that concentrates on bringing connectivity to the Western United States with an emphasis on helping underserved and unserved areas. Jeff and his team have brought together another fantastic event. Click now to hear what exciting speakers and activities are happening at this year's conference. Also, be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode of the Broadband Bunch! https://mountainconnect.org

In this episode, we speak with Jeff Gavlinski, CEO of Mountain Connect, an annual broadband conference based in Colorado. Jeff shares with us the beginning of the conference and its growth into a premier educational show for communities, municipalities and organizations looking to build or expand broadband networks. This year due to the pandemic, Mountain Connect is going virtual but will still feature engaging content from thought leaders in the broadband industry. Jeff will talk about the challenges and opportunities to virtual events in general and Mountain Connect in particular. Hope you enjoy the show.

This week, we’re bringing another podcast interview that Christopher conducted while at Mountain Connect in Colorado. David Young, former Fiber Infrastructure and Right-of-Way Manager for the city of Lincoln, Nebraska, sat down to reminisce about the city’s network that began as conduit and has evolved into citywide Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH). David has moved on to Kansas City in … Continue reading "David Young Shares the Story of Lincoln – Community Broadband Bits Podcast 364"

In this episode, we have the chance to interview leaders helping municipalities navigate, understand and realize the vision of connecting their communities through broadband. We speak with Jeff Gavlinski, CEO of Mountain Connect (www.mountainconnect.org) about his mission and observations into the market. Cat Blake from Next Century Cities (www.nextcenturycities.org) talks about how they are helping hundreds of municipalities and walks us through the Becoming Broadband Ready Toolkit. Mark Guillen from Crown Castle (www.crowncastle.com) joins us to explain what's driving use of small cell towers and impact of 5G. Then Dan Flemming from Render (www.rendernetworks.com) talks about innovative approaches to accelerating the time and effort from planning to building broadband networks.

In this episode, we have the chance to interview leaders helping municipalities navigate, understand and realize the vision of connecting their communities through broadband. We speak with Brian Snider about how Lit Communities (www.litcommunities.net) is helping municipalities navigate the early stages of broadband funding and planning. Sean Stokes from Baller, stokes and Lide explains the Coalition for Local Internet Choice (www.localnetchoice.org) mission and discusses policy updates. And we speak author and industry advocate, Craig Settles of CJSpeaks (www.cjspeaks.com) about the telehealth and it's significance to municipalities.

When you hear founder and CEO Matt Larson talk about his company Vistabeam Internet, you’ll understand he and his team received the 2018 Provider of the Year Award at Mountain Connect. At the conference in June, Matt sat down with Christopher to discuss what it’s like to be in his shoes — starting up and operating a … Continue reading "Vistabeam Internet: Driven to Connect Rural Communities – Community Broadband Bits Podcast 315"

The State of Colorado has made some changes in the past few years that are improving broadband deployment, especially in rural areas. In this episode of the podcast, Christopher talks about some of those changes with Tony Neal-Graves, Executive Director of the Colorado Broadband Office. While Christopher was in Vail at the Mountain Connect event, … Continue reading "At the State Level With Tony Neal-Graves in Colorado – Community Broadband Bits Podcast 312"

One of the very many treats at Mountain Connect this year was a keynote from Chattanooga EPB's Director of Fiber Technology, Colman Keane. (Watch it here.) After discussing their remarkable successes, we snagged an interview with him (he was last on the show for episode 175).We discuss whether or not Chattanooga is an appropriate role … Continue reading "Chattanooga Fiber Surpasses Expectations, Offers Lessons – Community Broadband Bits Podcast 257" ★ Support this podcast ★

In an exciting milestone, this is podcast 100000000. Or 256 in decimal – you know, for the squares. While at the always-amazing Mountain Connect event in Colorado, I snagged an interview with Doug Seacat of Deeply Digital and Clearnetworx. They sought a grant from the Colorado Broadband Fund to deploy fiber and wireless to underserved Ridgway … Continue reading "Colorado Chooses to Subsidize DSL Rather than Fiber – Community Broadband Bits Podcast 256" ★ Support this podcast ★

Last week, while at my favorite regional broadband conference – Mountain Connect, I was asked to moderate a panel on municipal fiber projects in Colorado. You can watch it via the periscope video stream that was recorded. It was an excellent panel and led to this week's podcast, a discussion with Glenwood Springs Information Systems … Continue reading "Glenwood Springs Shares Lessons Learned – Community Broadband Bits Podcast 206" ★ Support this podcast ★

Last year was the first year I attended Mountain Connect, an event in the Rockies west of Denver that discusses approaches to improving Internet access. Historically, they focused on rural communities but as co-chair of the event Jeff Gavlinski notes in our discussion this week, they are expanding it to include more urban issues as … Continue reading "Rural Colorado Internet Access and Mountain Connect – Community Broadband Bits Episode 137" ★ Support this podcast ★

With so many people on vacation this week for Independence Day, we decided to take it easy and reflect on my trip to Colorado to discuss rural broadband at the Mountain Connect conference. Lisa and I reflect on the event and what other states can learn from Colorado. Though the Colorado legislature previously bowed to … Continue reading "Reflections on Mountain Connect Rural Broadband Conference – Community Broadband Bits Podcast 105" ★ Support this podcast ★

I recall first hearing about Alled Fiber a few years back and not thinking much about it. It seemed like another operator focused on connecting wireless towers and building long haul fiber… but then I heard Hunter Newby's presentation at Mountain Connect in Colorado. When he noted the need to have infrastructure that financiers could … Continue reading "Fiber as Real Estate – Allied Fiber on Episode 104 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast" ★ Support this podcast ★

Community broadband project teams and stakeholders always hear that these network services are the new utility, they improve economic development and people use broadband to find jobs. But what's missing? After the news stories, conferences, Webinars and calls to colleagues, what do those folks driving broadband deployments still need to know?  Jeffrey Gavlinski, one of the two primary people behind this year's successful Mountain Connect rural broadband conference, shares what he finds are the questions, answers and information that still elude individuals, many of whom don't even know what they don't know. Do we really understand what these networks should be producing? Are project teams being taught the a-b-c's of building good networks, and how to market them effectively before and after deployment?  Knowledge is power, but what you don't know can kill even the most promising broadband plans. Gavlinski has attended plenty of conference, talks frequently with lots of people and stays on top of broadband news in preparation for his own conference. The industry is marketing a lot of sizzle these days, but is it giving those who need more news they can use enough steak and side dishes? This interview gives listeners an overview of the kinds of details required to fill in the knowledge gaps and where these details may be found. The role of consultants in filling these gaps is also examined.