Podcasts about rural broadband

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane talks with Janae Stark about the Community Economic Revitalization Board's “right project, right time” approach to rural economic development, from planning and project development to infrastructure financing, construction timelines, and what happens when projects go sideways. Janae shares how CERB works with communities and federally recognized tribes in Washington State, why trust and relationship-building matter as much as funding, and how infrastructure like buildings, roads, utilities, and rural broadband can unlock opportunity for small communities. The conversation also explores the less visible work behind successful projects, the importance of helping communities avoid bad bets, and why economic developers need spaces to learn from one another instead of reinventing the wheel alone. Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! 10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Start with project readiness, not the application. Before pursuing funding, work backward from the business or community timeline and identify permits, environmental review, match funding, private investment, and approvals needed to get to contract. Treat planning as economic development work. Use planning funds and community outreach to clarify what the community actually wants to become, not just what project happens to be available. Build relationships before things go wrong. Communities are more likely to call early when a business partner pulls out or a project changes if they already trust you. Be willing to coach communities toward the right funder. If your program is not the best fit, help the community find the organization or funding source that can get them to yes. Do not confuse urgency with readiness. A project can look exciting on paper but still be too risky if the private partner, repayment plan, permits, or timeline are not solid. Ask whether the infrastructure can support more than one possible business. Projects are safer when the building, road, utility, or site improvement can be reused or marketed to another company if the original deal falls apart. Help elected officials and board members understand the invisible work. Explain the project development, relationship management, and risk reduction that happen long before a groundbreaking or ribbon cutting. Recognize that different infrastructure has different economic impacts. Buildings, roads, water, sewer, and electricity may directly enable business expansion, while broadband may improve community competitiveness in broader, less immediately visible ways. Create peer networks for practitioners. New economic developers need places to ask basic questions, decode acronyms, find funding calendars, and learn from communities that have already solved similar problems. Show up and listen locally. Especially for people new to economic development, attending community meetings, listening to difficult voices, validating concerns, and asking experienced practitioners for help are essential parts of learning the work. Special Guest: Janea Stark.

Scott Meyer is back with more data to share on how younger subscribers feel about broadband pricing, customer attitudes toward satellite and cellular service and more. Recorded LIVE at StoryConnect 2026!Find the full 2026 Rural Broadbrand Subscriber Survey here: https://www.innovsys.com/innovsys/2026-rural-subscriber-study-2/ 

Headlines on today's episode include: - Digesting EPA's fungicide strategy - USDA committed to rural broadband - Lawmakers continue debate over Prop 12 - New Indiana soybean facility looks to grow demand - Challenging conditions for some cattle producers See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week marks the 3rd annual Fairway Fore Foundation Golf Classic at Jefferson Landing. This annual fundraising tournament fuels the work of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, providing support for economic development projects and investments in childcare, housing, workforce development, infrastructure, and organizational support.The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is not the only organization that does business on the golf course. In fact, 30% of small business owners say they have initiated or closed business on a golf course. This week on Mind Your Business, we are on location for this year's tournament, highlighting the ways golf and business lead to the relationship equity that can move a deal or project across the finishline.Speaking of business, we have updates on two key project areas -- broadband infrastructure and local convention space. Edward Hinson of SkyLine/SkyBest takes time away from the range to discuss the company's continued Helene recovery efforts along with information about the future of broadband usage in the High Country. Then, we visit with the owner of the Graystone Lodge, Justin Patel. In addition to serving alongside Carolina West Wireless as our tournament co-sponsor, Justin's team has been working on a project that could add valuable meeting and convention space inside the Town of Boone. We'll get the latest details on that project, as well as an early look at the performance of the 2026 tourism season.Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday afternoon at 5PM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

The USDA is exploring a significant increase in its borrowing authority to strengthen financial support programs for farmers facing ongoing economic strain, and Rural Broadband Association applauds Congressional passage of the Rural Broadband Protection Act.

Nearly 500 rural homes northeast of Battle Ground Lake now have access to reliable high-speed internet after Comcast completed a broadband expansion project in partnership with Clark County. The $5.21 million effort, supported in part by American Rescue Plan Act funding, aims to expand broadband infrastructure and improve digital connectivity for rural residents. County leaders say the project helps close the digital divide by supporting remote work, telehealth, online learning and home-based businesses. Information provided by Clark County WA Communications. Read the full story at https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/comcast-completes-network-expansion-to-rural-residents-as-part-of-partnership-with-county/ #ClarkCountyWA #Broadband #HighSpeedInternet #Comcast #DigitalDivide #Infrastructure #RuralInternet

As she prepares to retire as CEO of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, Shirley Bloomfield joins us to discuss progress on connecting the rural US, how BEAD changes will impact those communities, and the need to preserve USF. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oklahoma is now officially getting a new state superintendent.A case involving state taxes in Indian Country could be headed to the U.S. Supreme Court.The Trump Administration is making changes to rural broadband efforts.You can find the KOSU Daily wherever you get your podcasts, you can also subscribe, rate us and leave a comment.You can keep up to date on all the latest news throughout the day at KOSU.org and make sure to follow us on Facebook, Tik Tok and Instagram at KOSU Radio.This is The KOSU Daily, Oklahoma news, every weekday.

Chair of the Orange County Commissioners Jamezetta Bedford spoke with 97.9 The Hill's Andrew Stuckey on Wednesday, September 17, discussing county news and events. She talked about the commissioners decision to amend their rural broadband agreement with Lumos. She also described a life saving action by staff at Stanback Middle School after a student went into cardiac arrest. She discussed the future Orange County Crisis Diversion Center, and more. The post Orange County: Rural Broadband Vote and a Life Saving Action at Stanback Middle School appeared first on Chapelboro.com.

Fiber broadband is rapidly expanding across West Virginia, fueled by bold public-private partnerships and significant infrastructure investments. While meaningful progress has been made, many communities remain underserved or entirely unserved — underscoring the continued need for strategic broadband deployment. On our next episode of Fiber for Breakfast, join us as Jim Martin, President and CEO of Citynet, talks with Gary Bolton, President and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to share how bold partnerships and targeted investments are transforming rural connectivity in West Virginia. With a spotlight on the recent $24.87 million USDA ReConnect award in Nicholas County, Martin will highlight how Citynet, a trusted, West Virginia-based fiber broadband provider is collaborating with local leaders to bring high-speed internet to thousands of underserved residents, farms, businesses, and community institutions. Discover how this project, and others like it, are reshaping the economic future of Appalachia and setting the stage for success under upcoming programs like BEAD and ARC. With Special Guest: Jim Martin, President and CEO of Citynet

The new technology-neutral approach of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program means fixed wireless and satellite networks will likely play a larger role in rural broadband. In this episode of All Day Digital, expert Tim Courtney assesses the changing competitive landscape, the coming capacity of satellite providers, and ways rural broadband operators can lock in customer loyalty.

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 Segment 1, Nicholas County Commission President Craig Chapman opens our show by sharing some of the things coming to Nicholas County, such as broadband opportunities, tourism and a solar project coming to an abandoned strip mine.In Segment 2, Pastor Brad Davis returns to IWVP to give an update on relief response efforts from the flooding that hit southern West Virginia earlier this year, which left many people, including himself, displaced from their homes. He says a conglomeration of churches is working together to help with needs such as water distribution.In Segment 3, Ripley Mayor Carolyn Rader visits our set to give a sneak peek of “America's Largest Small Town Independence Day Celebration” in Ripley. This year's celebration will run from July 2 through July 5, with the traditional Ripley's 4th of July Parade set to step off on Friday, July 4.In Segment 4, we round out or show with our very own StormTracker 13 Meteorologist Bryan Hughes sitting down with Rick to talk about the USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships that have been going on in downtown Charleston.

Budget talks are increasing as the end nears for the state legislature.New grants could bring high speed Internet to rural Oklahoma.A federal grant cut in Shawnee is impacting mental health programs in its police department.You can find the KOSU Daily wherever you get your podcasts, you can also subscribe, rate us and leave a comment.You can keep up to date on all the latest news throughout the day at KOSU.org and make sure to follow us on Facebook, Blue Sky and Instagram at KOSU Radio.This is The KOSU Daily, Oklahoma news, every weekday. Mentioned in this episode:Find out how to help prevent federal funding cuts to public media.

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.

Trump has nominated Brendan Carr to chair the FCC, calling him a “warrior for Free Speech” who “will end the regulatory onslaught that has been crippling America's Job Creators and Innovators, ​​and ensure that the FCC delivers for rural America." But as tech journalist Karl Bode explains, Carr has threatened to go after media outlets that criticize Trump, and his plans for rural broadband are even worse. And Liz and Andrew break down the issue “scrutiny” in Skrmetti, the SCOTUS case on healthcare for trans kids. Plus, we check in with Rudy Giuliani's shenanigans in the subscriber bonus.   Links: Skrmetti: It Was THAT Bad https://www.lawandchaospod.com/p/skrmetti-it-was-that-bad   Institute for Local Self Reliance https://ilsr.org/   Karl Bode at Techdirt https://www.techdirt.com/user/kbode/    Show Links: https://www.lawandchaospod.com/ BlueSky: @LawAndChaosPod Threads: @LawAndChaosPod Twitter: @LawAndChaosPod Patreon: patreon.com/LawAndChaosPod  

Join me as we delve into night 3 of the 2024 Democratic National Convention.

Many rural people are feeling 'vulnerable and intimidated' because of crime according to the National Farmers Union. Figures out this week from the insurers NFU Mutual put the cost at just under £53 million last year - up from 50 million in 2022.The new Labour government is putting renewable energy at the heart of its plans - it wants to double the power from onshore wind farms and triple solar power - both on buildings and in fields.One farm is benefitting from the rain we've endured over recent months, because they want their farm to be more sustainable. So as well as reducing inputs of bought-in feed, fertiliser and fuel and creating new habitats, they are producing hydro-electric power. It keeps their bills down and they can sell electricity back into the grid.A survey by the NFU has shown that while there has been some improvement in the provision of superfast broadband, only 34% of farmers who responded have a fibre connection. And the combines are out at last, one farmer reflects on the joys of a little sunshine.Presented by Charlotte SmithProduced by Alun Beach

A survey by the NFU has shown that while there has been some improvement in the provision of superfast broadband, only 34% of farmers who responded have a fibre connection. A farmer in the depths of his harvest has his fingers crossed that this spell of hot sunny weather will continue.Solar farms built on farmland are an increasingly controversial topic, one farmer is looking to expand his by over 80 acres.Presented by Caz GrahamProduced by Alun Beach

KFB Executive Vice President Drew Graham says adequate broadband is important for all Kentuckians regardless of their address.

From Virginia to Alaska, the U.S. government is boosting national security investments, creating new opportunities and challenges for rural broadband operators. Telecom investor and Army veteran Chad Crank warns that as world geopolitics become increasing unstable, the U.S. government should work with the private sector to reduce risks from bad actors.

The primaries have ended, turnout was low, there weren't many upsets, time marches on. The KPW crew looks at it all in front of a live audience at the KY Rural Broadband Association. Also, killer Iranian Mountains and a Utah family competes for a Darwin Award but they'll have to beat out the Colorado GOP to win it!

For the second year in a row, price was not the No. 1 concern for respondents in Innovative Systems' annual broadband survey. What is it that matters most? This episode also includes notes on bundling, social media platform usage, streaming options and communication preferences.Special: Recorded LIVE at StoryConnect 2024!

Curt Blades, SVP of Agriculture Services & Forestry at AEM discusses agriculture technology, and rural broadband infrastructure's importance.

In the episode of Acquisitions Anonymous, Heather and Bill discuss a rural broadband provider in Utah. The company is listed for $3 million with $340,000 cash flow and claims to offer cheaper infrastructure. However, the hosts express skepticism due to emerging competition from Starlink and uncertainty about government subsidies. They question the business's scalability and suggest it may be better suited for acquisition within a roll-up strategy. Overall, they highlight the risks and challenges in the broadband industry, emphasizing the importance of customer acquisition and regulatory factors.Thanks to this week's sponsor:Are you looking to buy, grow, invest in, or sell profitable businesses? Well, guess what? The M&A Launchpad Conference is happening on May 11th, 2024, in Houston, Texas, and you're going to want to be there. It's a one-day event where you can network with individuals who've been there, done that—think successful business owners, savvy acquirers, and private equity investors.At the M&A Launchpad Conference, attendees will gain first-hand insights from over 30 industry experts who have masterfully navigated the journey of acquiring, operating, scaling, and ultimately selling businesses for significant returns, including Walker Deibel WSJ & USA Today bestselling author of Buy and Then Build.And because you're awesome and part of the Acquisitions Anonymous community, we've got a sweet deal for you—200 bucks off your ticket. Just head over to malaunchpad.com and enter the code AA at checkout to claim your discount. I'll say it again, head over to malaunchpad.com and enter the code AA at checkout to claim your discount. Do you love Acquanon and want to see our smiling faces? Subscribe to our Youtube channel. Do you enjoy our content? Rate our show! Follow us on Twitter @acquanon Learnings about small business acquisitions and operations.

High-speed internet access is synonymous with economic prosperity, however, the disparity in broadband infrastructure between urban and rural communities has never been more pronounced. As the digital revolution marches on, the divide widens, leaving rural communities deep in the shadows of technological advancement. But this stark reality centers an urgent call to action, spearheaded by initiatives like BEAD funding, which is aimed at revitalizing rural broadband infrastructure. Amidst this backdrop, the critical question looms: How can rural communities navigate the complex maze of broadband expansion to bridge the digital divide effectively?For another insightful episode of Wavelengths, an Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin is joined by Brant Carter, Director of Industry Products at Sitetracker. The two unraveled the intricacies of broadband expansion in rural areas. This episode also explored the challenges, opportunities, and innovative strategies pivotal for the successful deployment of rural broadband infrastructure.In this episode, Litwin and Carter delved into:● The current state of rural broadband expansion and the unique challenges rural communities face, from geographical constraints to resource limitations.● Exploring actionable strategies for rural telcos to navigate the complex landscape of broadband deployment.● The Role of BEAD Funding and examining its impact on the rural broadband landscape and how it shapes the future of connectivity in rural America.Brant Carter is the Director of Industry Products at Sitetracker. With a distinguished career at the company, he has a wealth of experience in telecommunications infrastructure. His role includes deploying critical infrastructure across various sectors, managing multi-billion dollar projects globally. This has allowed Carter to be positioned as a leading voice in telecommunications infrastructure.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters defends mistakes in teacher signing bonuses.Oklahoma is still facing water issues after recent freezing temps.New grants will bring broadband to rural areas.You can find the KOSU Daily wherever you get your podcasts, you can also subscribe, rate us and leave a comment.You can keep up to date on all the latest news throughout the day at KOSU.org and make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at KOSU Radio.This is The KOSU Daily, Oklahoma news, every weekday.

The Universal Service Fund, an FCC program that ensures connectivity in rural America, is being challenged in U.S. federal circuit court. The outcome could be disruptive for rural telecom operators who rely on USF support. In this episode of All Day Digital, the former executive director of the FCC's National Broadband Plan, Blair Levin, explains the situation and urges rural communities to be informed.

A bill from Rep. Kevin Waters that would further the effort to expand rural broadband in Washington received a hearing in the House Innovation, Community and Economic Development, and Veterans Committee Tuesday. http://tinyurl.com/3u542ysw #HouseBill1982 #CommunityEconomicRevitalizationBoard #RuralBroadbandProgram #RepKevinWaters #RuralBroadband #WashingtonStateLegislature #2024LegislativeSession #VancouverWa #ClarkCountyWa #ClarkCountyNews #ClarkCountyToday

In the last few years federal, state, and local entities have deployed billions into broadband funding to help close the nation's digital divide.

In recent years, significant funding has been allocated by federal, state, and local authorities to bridge the digital divide. Rick Cimerman, VP of State Affairs at NCTA, warns that new FCC regulations will hinder broadband expansion in rural areas.

In this episode, we are joined by Bill MacNamara, CEO of WDM Ventures. WDM was founded by industry experts, and specializes in long-term financial partnerships for the broadband industry. Bill's commitment goes beyond financing, as he helps providers refine business plans to ensure sustainable growth and high-quality connectivity in their communities. Click now to hear his story and enjoy this informative conversation. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. To Contact Bill McNamara: bill@wdm-ventures.com.

12/04/23: Joel Heitkamp is joined in the KGFO studio by Andy Berke. Andy is the Administrator of the Rural Utilities Service within USDA Rural Development. He's speaking at the Broadband Association of ND's annual meeting today! Joel and Andy talk about the importance of rural utilities, including broadband, and what the Biden administration has done for North Dakota. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many new mothers experience post-partum depression after giving birth. Doctors are trying to find new ways to reach people who are at the greatest risk.Then, Mississippi's Secretary of State shares how folks can vote absentee in this year's general election.Plus, Expanding broadband access could return $43 million dollars annually through telemedicine visits according to a new study. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Suzanne Bellsnyder joins the podcast to discuss the importance of rural broadband and the upcoming constitutional amendment election in Texas. She explains that broadband is a foundational resource for rural communities, impacting economic development, healthcare, and education. Suzanne highlights the need for broadband in rural areas and the challenges faced by these communities. She also addresses concerns about small rural broadband companies and the impact of the proposed amendment on competition. The conversation then shifts to the topic of school choice and the upcoming special session in Texas. Suzanne shares her perspective on school choice and the potential impact on public schools, particularly in rural areas. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong public education system while also providing choice options for families.More info and writing from Suzanne can be found at TexasRuralReporter.com and you can find her on twitter/x at https://www.x.com/sbellsnyderSend a message to Garrett and Andi at hosts@seeingredpodcast.com.Follow us on all social media platforms @theseeingredpod. Follow us on all socials at @theseeingredpod and online at our website Seeing Red Podcast

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering $714 million in grants and loans to connect thousands of rural Americans to affordable, high-speed internet.You might be asking yourself, “well that sounds all fine and dandy on paper, but what does that actually mean?”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering $714 million in grants and loans to connect thousands of rural Americans to affordable, high-speed internet.You might be asking yourself, “well that sounds all fine and dandy on paper, but what does that actually mean?”

In this episode, we are joined by Offir Schwartz, Founder & CEO of Capcon Networks, a company focused on Rural Broadband Multi-Site Networking. Offir is passionate about connecting rural broadband operators and communities more efficiently, ensuring better internet access even in hard-to-reach areas. Under his leadership, Capcon Networks provides innovative solutions, enabling operators to compete fairly and serve communities better. Offir's dedication to digital inclusion drives positive social impact and fosters meaningful partnerships in underserved regions. Click now to listen to this informative and very educational episode. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. https://www.capconnetworks.com/

Stephen Shankland, principal writer for CNET, joins Lisa Dent to explain how SpaceX’s launch of the largest commercial communications satellite ever will deliver broadband service across nearly 80% of North America. Follow The Lisa Dent Show on Twitter:Follow @LisaDentSpeaksFollow @SteveBertrand Follow @kpowell720 Follow @maryvandeveldeFollow @LaurenLapka

Iowa Representative Zach Nunn joins to discuss some legislation he has spearheaded trying to help bring better broadband to rural America. We also touch on the Farm Bill and a few other priorities for Washington D.C.

Over the last fortnight fire crews across the UK have been tackling wildfires as dry weather and high temperatures combine. Experts says they're going to become more frequent. We ask how land can be managed to help avoid them in future. Rural communities often lack a decent broadband connection. Under the government's levelling up agenda there is a commitment to connect parts of rural Britain to ultra fast broadband, through Project Gigabit. As part of the scheme, homes and businesses can apply for up to £4,500 to help to cover installation costs. The money is applied for on behalf of the customer by a broadband supplier, often a smaller, independent network provider but many of them are under financial pressure. People living in West Wales are now calling for urgent action because the company that was supposed to connect them, went into administration. All week we're looking at sheep. Farmers in Scotland having been taking part in a trial where sheep are used to control giant hogweed - an invasive alien plant which can overwhelm native plants by its vigorous growth. Its sap is also toxic to human skin, leaving blisters and long term sensitivity to UV. Sheep however love nibbling it and are being used to stop it spreading. Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

A new study investigating the availability of reliable broadband in rural areas, and the impact this has on lives and businesses, is being welcomed by farmers. The Commerce Commission's study aims to paint a picture of the rural telecommunications market, including the options available to communities, businesses and farmers, beyond the national UFB fibre footprint, and how these are priced and performing. Fibre has been rolled out to 87 percent of the country's households, mainly in urban areas. That means more than one in every ten homes don't have it, mainly in rural areas. Federated Farmers did a survey last year showing coverage, reliability and speed of mobile and internet services for many farming families and businesses are treading water, if not going backwards. Almost 1 in 5 farms are moving to relatively expensive satellite broadband, such as Star Link, where fibre isn't available. Kathryn speaks with Federated Farmers national telecommunications chairperson Richard McIntyre and Chief Executive of the Tech Users Group Craig Young, who is also welcoming the review, but cautions satellite connection is not a good enough option.

Janet is joined by BJ Tanksley, Director for the Office of Broadband Development in the Missouri Department of Economic Development, to discuss their upcoming Connecting All Missourians 2023 Spring Outreach Tour. The tour aims to ensure all Missourians have high-quality, affordable internet access, and the skills to use it. For more information on the tour or other rural broadband initiatives through DED, visit ded2.mo.gov/connecting-all-missourians, call 573-522-6261, or email broadband@ded.mo.gov. Host: Janet Adkison, MOFB Director of Public Affairs Guest: BJ Tanksley, Director for the Office of Broadband Development, MO DED Producer: Elizabeth Wyss, MOFB Audio/Visual Specialist

It's Derby Week!  In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Keith Gabbard, CEO of the People's Rural Telephone Cooperative or PRTC in McKee, KY.  It doesn't matter where you live, in this day and age everyone deserves an equal opportunity at broadband access.  PRTC is delivering just that in one of the more rural and underserved areas in the country - in turn making Jackson County one of the most connected small communities in the nation.  Putting "connectivity over profit" PRTC has become a best practice in how you can transform a community by being a "doer" and providing opportunity where there once was none.  Take a listen as Keith describes what (and how) PRTC has done in this slice of Appalachia and how much it has benefited the residents in the place he has always called home.  Keith believes what PRTC is doing is similar to the quote from his favorite PIRATE - " If you have a chance to accomplish something that will make things better for people coming behind you, and you don't do that, you are wasting your time on the Earth."  You might even hear Neil and Will's picks for the Derby and how they unexpectedly celebrate Cinco de Mayo in the  process.  Also, don't forget the #App Biz(s) of the week: Paris Signs;  and Annie's Flooring and Commercial Services - and find out why we are celebrating them on THIS WEEK!        People's Rural Telephone Cooperative - https://prtcnet.org/  Kentucky Derby (Official Site) - www.kentuckyderby.com/  #AppBiz: Paris Signs - www.parissigns.com  Annie's Flooring and Commercial Cleaning Services - www.anniesflooring.com  National Small Business Week (and award winners) - www.sba.gov/national-small-business-week  Appalachian News:  Rural Action Receives USDA Funding - https://ruralaction.org/news/2023/usda-funding-will-support-appalachian-farms-and-food-businesses/  Rural Partners Network - www.rural.gov/  Rural Partners Network and Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation Forum (Pineville, KY) - www.arc.gov/event/rural-partners-network-community-forum-in-pineville-ky/  Heritage Ohio and Buckeye Hills Regional Council Workshop (Downtown Revitalization) - www.eventbrite.com/e/financial-tools-incentives-for-downtown-revitalization-workshop-tickets-607595152457     

COVID‐19 intensified rural areas' challenges that come with the lack of internet access. So when electric co-op members spoke up, management teams listened. How did they accelerate access? Two neighboring Georgia electric co-ops found solutions as unique as their communities: Tri-County EMC became its own internet service provider; Central Georgia EMC contracted a company to operate its fiber network and deliver broadband service. Their CEOs explain why these were the right choices for their co-ops.