What's it really like to live life on the road in broadband? In this special "Road Warrior Edition" of Broadband Heroes, we sit down with three true road warriors—Niki Carnahan from VETRO, Drew Pappas from Bonfire, and Adam Puckett from COS Systems—to talk travel chaos, conference hacks, favorite road snacks, and the unexpected joy (and pain) of broadband events.

From wild detours through Romania and lost tablets in airport lounges, to red-eye karaoke nights and the best churros at Denver International Airport—this episode is a hilarious, honest, and human look at what it means to champion connectivity across the country.

Key topics:

How many miles have they racked up this year? (Hint: someone hit 45,000) The glam and grind of the trade show circuit

Travel hacks, safety tips, and face-painting fails

Behind-the-scenes chaos and how these pros "embrace the suck"

What they're most excited about for Fiber Connect & Mountain Connect

Whether you're in the broadband biz or just curious what it's like behind the booths and bar tabs, this episode's got stories, laughs, and some serious road-tested wisdom.

See you at Fiber Connect? These heroes will be there.

In this episode of the Broadband Heroes podcast,we speak with Angela Siefer, Executive Director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), about the Digital Equity Act the importance of the providing support to underserved populations, including low-income individuals, veterans, and rural communities. She highlights how the act aims to bridge the digital divide by funding programs that offer internet access, devices, and digital literacy training. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of the act's potential cancellation, such as hindering economic growth and limiting access to essential services like telehealth and online education.

Community Networks to sign up for the event https://www.digitalinclusion.org/netinclusion2025/

In this episode of Broadband Heroes, host Nick and co-host Jade welcome broadband policy heavyweight Joey Wender, former director of the Treasury's $10 billion Capital Projects Fund and now Executive Director of SHLB (Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband Coalition).

Joey reflects on his journey from Capitol Hill to leading broadband equity initiatives that impact communities across the U.S. He breaks down the Capital Projects Fund, its role as a "first wave" in pandemic-era broadband funding, and how it helped states rapidly expand high-speed internet access—without federal micromanagement.

Now at SHLB, Joey champions anchor institutions like schools, libraries, and health clinics, advocating for sustainable funding through the Universal Service Fund (USF) and Digital Equity Act. He shares insight on how the perception of broadband has shifted in government, why affordability and adoption are still major hurdles, and what policies need to evolve to close the digital divide for good.

From Supreme Court cases to small-town libraries, this conversation explores the very real stakes of broadband access—and the people working tirelessly to make it universal.

In this powerful episode of Broadband Heroes, host Nick and co-host Jade welcome Dr. Christopher Ali, the renowned telecommunications scholar and author of Farm Fresh Broadband, to explore why broadband policy continues to fall short—especially for rural and underserved communities.

Dr. Ali shares the deeply human side of the digital divide, from road-tripping across America with his dog Tuna to collect stories, to his upcoming book If These Maps Could Talk, which challenges how policymakers define evidence and impact. Together, they dissect systemic issues in broadband funding, the failure to prioritize equity, and how storytelling—not just data—should guide the future of connectivity.

Whether you're a policymaker, advocate, or just curious about the real-world impact of broadband access, this conversation delivers a rich, engaging look into the past, present, and future of digital equity in America.

Broadband Heroes is the podcast where industry leaders, policymakers, and change-makers come together to discuss the future of connectivity. Hosted by Nick and Jade, each episode dives into the challenges and triumphs of expanding broadband access, ensuring digital equity, and shaping the next generation of internet infrastructure. From policy shifts to real-world impact, hear firsthand from the people making broadband a reality—because access to reliable internet isn't just a luxury, it's a necessity.

In this enlightening episode of Broadband Heroes, co-hosts Nick and Jade sit down with the brilliant minds from Education SuperHighway, https://www.educationsuperhighway.org/ a nonprofit tackling the digital divide by focusing on public and affordable housing.

Discover how they transitioned from connecting schools to empowering underserved communities with free Wi-Fi, what it means to be "pro bono telecom consultants," and their pivotal role in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).

Learn about the systemic challenges, from outdated broadband maps to affordability gaps, and how innovative solutions like streamlined enrollment processes and targeted subsidies are shaping the future. With insights from real-world projects and advocacy strategies, this episode is a masterclass on bridging the digital divide one household at a time.

Tune in to find out why Education SuperHighway are true 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, hosts Nick and Jade dive into the world of broadband advocacy with Brian Newby, North Dakota's Broadband Program Director. Brian shares insights into North Dakota's impressive fiber infrastructure achievements, the challenges of bridging the digital divide, and the evolving role of state broadband offices in delivering internet access to underserved communities. Brian's blend of private sector strategy and public sector experience shapes his unique approach to broadband policy. With a dose of humor and candid reflections, this episode explores the future of digital equity, the importance of strategic planning, and the parallels between broadband and public service.

Learn more about the series at https://bonfireig.com/broadband-heroes/

How can communities take control of their digital future? In this episode of Broadband Heroes, hosts Nick & Jade are joined by Gigi Sohn, Executive Director of the AAPB (https://www.aapb.us), a renowned advocate for universal connectivity, and Brian Hollister, CEO of Bonfire Infrastructure Group (https://www.bonfireig.com). Gigi shares her journey from advocating for community-focused broadcasting to championing affordable, robust broadband access for all.

What You'll Learn: The conversation delves into the challenges and barriers facing broadband expansion, including policy hurdles, affordability, and the vital role of public broadband. Brian and Gigi emphasize the importance of community involvement, vision, and patience in overcoming these challenges while highlighting the need for stronger advocacy and policy reform.

Join the Movement: Get inspired by stories of resilience and collaboration in the fight for a more equitable digital future. Don't miss out—subscribe, like, and share this episode if you believe in connecting every community.

Have thoughts on the broadband landscape? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Our ongoing podcast series that brings together leaders (heroes) in the broadband space to educate, connect, inspire, and entertain.

In this episode, we talk with California's top broadband leaders about their ambitious plans to bridge the digital divide across the state. Discover how initiatives like the California Advanced Services Fund, digital equity programs, and a massive middle-mile network are transforming connectivity for underserved communities. Learn about the challenges, successes, and what's next as California paves the way for inclusive broadband access. Join us to see how California is leading the charge toward a connected future!

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/