Episodes
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What happens when powerful technology becomes accessible to smaller broadband providers?
At Fiber Connect 2026, we talk with Ian Oliver of Globema about the software, automation, and AI tools helping tier-two and tier-three ISPs work smarter, design networks faster, and better serve their customers. Plus, we discuss the future of fiber, the evolving role of cable networks, and why innovation isn't just for the biggest players in broadband.
Recommended links:
Ian Oliver LinkedIn
Globema website
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What happens when broadband networks become smart enough to manage themselves?
Recorded live at Fiber Connect 2026, this episode of Connected Nation features Randy Van Buren of Motive Software Solutions for a fascinating conversation about the technologies shaping the future of connectivity. From backup internet systems that seamlessly switch between fiber, wireless, and satellite networks to the growing role of artificial intelligence in network management, Van Buren shares insights into how providers are building more resilient, efficient, and reliable broadband networks.
If you've ever wondered how emerging technologies will keep people connected anytime, anywhere, this episode offers a glimpse into what's next.
Recommended links:
Randy Van Buren LinkedIn
Motive website
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What happens when a company trusted with defense, medical, and transportation tech turns its focus to broadband?
Recorded at the Connected America Conference in Dallas, host Jessica Denson talks with leadership from Kontron about their entry into the telecommunications sector. We explore how their 'fail-safe' background is shaping a new, cost-effective approach to building and maintaining resilient networks.
Recommended links:
Sutton Underwood LinkedIn
Rok Okorn LinkedIn
Kontron LinkedIn
Kontron website
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On this episode of Connected Nation, we’re previewing Mountain Connect 2026 — and a timely, solution-driven opportunity for ISPs to overcome deployment challenges and accelerate broadband expansion nationwide.
Listen as we discuss a new Hosted Buyer Program designed to connect ISPs with trusted partners, reduce deployment challenges, and even help cover the cost of attending the conference.Recommended links:
Mountain Connect website
Mountain Connect agenda
Hosted Buyers Program
Jeffrey Gavlinski LinkedIn
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In this episode of Connected Nation, we sit down with Heneways Freight Services executives Larne Davis and Caleb Buchel to explore the fast-moving world of global shipping — and the role it plays in keeping broadband projects on track.
From tariffs and supply chain challenges to family business traditions, they share an inside look at the industry that keeps goods — and networks — moving. And yes, they answer the big question: what’s the strangest thing they’ve ever shipped?
Recommended links:
Caleb Buchel's LinkedIn
Larne Davis' LinkedIn
Heneways Freight Services
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Imagine never having to ask for a Wi-Fi password ever again. In this episode, recorded at the Connected America Conference in Dallas, we meet Mario Soave of CleverFi.
He shares how a personal brush with the FBI inspired him to reinvent how we connect on the go. We explore his vision for 'teleporting' your home network to any location and why this startup is one you’ll likely be using in just a few years.Recommended links:
Mario Soave LinkedIn
Mario email - [email protected]
CleverFi pitch video
CleverFi website
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What happens when a massive federal broadband program gets paused, rewritten, and restarted?
On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with Michigan’s Chief Connectivity Officer, Eric Frederick, about navigating the BEAD program's "administrative slog." Learn how Michigan is using everything from Great Lakes subsea cables to AI literacy to finally get shovels in the ground and close the Digital Divide.
Recommended links:
Eric Frederick LinkedIn
Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MiHi)
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How do we solve America’s broadband affordability gap while also protecting critical infrastructure?
During the Connected America Conference in Dallas, host Jessica Denson sat down with Neo Network Development's Founder and CEO Vince Aragona to discuss innovative approaches to broadband deployment, public-private partnerships, and the company’s vision for a nationwide fiber infrastructure network.
Recommended links:
Neo Network Development's website
Vince Aragona's LinkedIn
Fiber Instructure Network Map - https://nndi.us/innovative-solutions/fiber-solutions
National Broadband Master Plan - https://nndi.us/innovative-solutions/nbmp
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On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with Joseph “Joey” Wender, Executive Director of SHLB. The conversation explores the future of the Universal Service Fund, the ongoing fight to close the homework gap, cybersecurity challenges facing community institutions, and how reliable connectivity can be life-changing, and even lifesaving, for communities across the country.
Recommended links:
Joseph Wender LinkedIn
SHLB website
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The infrastructure is being built, but is the workforce ready? During the Connected America Conference in Dallas, host Jessica Denson sat down to discuss the growing need for digital skills training. We break down the areas that require immediate focus and why digital literacy is the 'hidden gap' that could determine the success of broadband deployment across the U.S.
Recommended links:
Heather Gate LinkedIn
Connected Nation website
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What is the next big disruptor threatening to widen the Digital Divide?
In this episode, recorded at the Connected America Conference in Dallas, host Jessica Denson tackles the urgent state of U.S. broadband policy with Nokia leadership. From emerging tech shifts to policy bottlenecks, we unpack the immediate actions required to secure connectivity for every American.Recommended links:
Lori Adams LinkedIn
Nokia Corporation website
Nokia Corporation LinkedIn
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In 2013, nine rural telephone companies came together with one goal: bringing urban-level connectivity and services to rural communities. On this episode of Connected Nation, we sit down with a representative from CBS Oregon to discuss how that collaboration turned into a success story for rural broadband.
She also shares insights from her role as chair of the planning committee for Fiber Connect 2026 and what attendees can expect from the industry’s biggest conversations moving forward.
Recommended links:
Jessica Koch LinkedIn
Consolidated Business Services website
Fiber Connect 2026 website
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On this episode of Connected Nation, we sit down with a strategic advisor who works with ISPs and co-ops across the country to explore the growing impact of artificial intelligence on the broadband industry. From overcoming fears around AI to helping employees embrace innovation, the conversation dives into the opportunities and challenges organizations face as technology rapidly evolves.
Straight from the Fiber Connect floor, this episode highlights valuable lessons learned from a program at MIT, insights into the future of connectivity, and why autonomous technology may play a major role in what comes next.
Recommended links:
Timothy Holden LinkedIn
Wavsys website
Failure to Quit website
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Broadband isn't just about infrastructure; it's about human equity. Sitting down at the Connected America Conference, Colorado Broadband Director Brandy Reitter explains the harsh realities of closing the Digital Divide.
From mountain construction challenges and BEAD funding to AI opportunities and workforce shortages, Reitter breaks down exactly what it takes to bring reliable internet to rural Colorado—proving why high-speed access is about much more than just laying fiber.
Recommended links:
Brandy Reitter LinkedIn
Colorado Broadband Office website
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Rural broadband doesn’t just happen in a vacuum—it happens on rural land. But how do we turn landowners into essential infrastructure partners?
Connected Nation's host Jessica Denson sits down with David Christophersen of the Rural Tower Cooperative to discuss why the 'co-op' model is the secret weapon for accelerating BEAD funding, building community trust, and ensuring the future of American farming is fully connected.
Recommended links:
Rural Tower Cooperative
David Christophersen's LinkedIn
A Cooperative Approach to Broadband Deployment in Rural Areas (LinkedIn):
Rural Tower Cooperative Launches Pre‑Screened Rural Parcels for Broadband Deployment (Total Telecom)
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On this episode of Connected Nation, we're joined by a tech leader who's helped global enterprises modernize the cloud, harness AI for real-time decisions, and even rethink sustainable infrastructure for EV charging.
We'll talk about getting the cloud right, the AI trends that matter, and what all of this means for ISPs and states building next gen networks.
Recommended links:
Chris Carter LinkedIn
Approyo website
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At a defining moment for broadband, many believe fiber is at the center of what comes next. In this episode of Connected Nation, Jessica Denson speaks with Fiber Broadband Association President and CEO Gary Bolton about why this is a critical moment to be at the world’s largest fiber conference, Fiber Connect 2026.
From AI and data centers to healthcare, agriculture, and long‑term infrastructure decisions, the conversation breaks down what’s at stake — and why showing up means being in the room when big things happen.Recommended links:
Fiber Broadband Association website
Fiber Connect 2026 registration
Gary Bolton LinkedIn
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On this episode of Connected Nation, we chat about a new "attraction" at the Connected America Conference - an India pavilion. Find out why companies from the other side of the globe were here to talk American connectivity.
Recommended links:
Hardik Soni LinkedIn
Nav Wireless Technologies
Ravi Joni LinkedIn
Unified Reach
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On this episode of Connected Nation, we are live at the Connected America Conference in Dallas. We speak with Rob Chambers, Managing Director of Total Telecom about what’s next for Connected America and why face-to-face collaboration is critical to expanding broadband access nationwide.
Recommended links:
Connected America Conference
Total Telecom
Rob Chambers LinkedIn
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On today’s podcast, we’re diving into the world of digital transformation, RevOps, and how ISPs can streamline operations from customer service to infrastructure.
We’re talking with leadership from one company working across North America and beyond — helping organizations connect their systems, automate workflows, and build the future of operational efficiency.
Recommended links:
Second Mile website
Hannah Collins LinkedIn
Second Mile blog (RevOps, HubSpot, Integrations)
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