Connected Nation

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How are service providers modernizing voice services, and what happens to critical systems still relying on copper lines? 

On this episode of Connected Nation, Jessica Denson talks with Ooma’s Michael Abenhaim about building flexible, cloud-based voice solutions, and how tools like AirDial are helping bridge the gap between legacy infrastructure and next-generation connectivity.

Related links:
Ooma's website
Michael Abenhaim's LinkedIn
Company on LinkedIn 

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Fiber is more than a technology—it can be a pathway to opportunity in rural communities.

On this episode of Connected Nation, Fidium’s Sarah Davis shares how the company is taking a fiber-first approach to connecting rural communities across 21 states. The conversation explores Fidium’s community-first strategy, public-private partnerships, BEAD-funded projects, and the different approaches needed to build resilient fiber networks in places ranging from rural Maine to Florida and Texas. Davis also explains why listening to communities first—and meeting them where they are—has been key to Fidium’s success.

Related links:
Fidium's website

Fidium's LinkedIn

Sarah Davis' LinkedIn

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In broadband, better speeds alone are no longer enough to win.

In this episode of Connected Nation, Calix’s Teresa McGaughey explains how service providers are shifting their focus to customer experience, retention, and smarter operations. The conversation explores how AI driven platforms, targeted marketing, and automation can help providers reduce churn and compete in an increasingly crowded market.

Related links:
Calix's website

Company's LinkedIn

Teresa McGaughey's LinkedIn 

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AI is everywhere in broadband but it only works if the data behind it is right.

In this episode Connected Nation, IQGeo’s George Hughes explains how providers can improve data quality, reduce mistakes in the field, and use automation to streamline everything from design to operations. The conversation also explores how AI and automation together are laying the groundwork for more efficient, more reliable networks.

Related links:
IQGeo website 

IQGeo on LinkedIn

George Hughes' LinkedIn 

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Broadband is growing fast but not everyone is keeping up.  In this episode of Connected Nation, industry veteran Scott Sampson breaks down the biggest mistakes ISPs are making and explains why AI, consolidation, and new funding are reshaping the market.  Find out what he thinks it will take to survive what comes next.

Related links:
Scott Sampson's LinkedIn

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On this episode of Connected Nation, we're talking about Connected Nation's attempt to set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the "longest internet literacy livestream" a 25-hour global event focused on building essential digital skills. 

We'll discuss how the idea came together, what participants can expect, why digital skills matter, and the impact this effort could have beyond the world record.

Related links:

Connected Nation World Record webpage

Heather Gate LinkedIn

Molly Weiner LinkedIn

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Broadband is shifting fast and the old rules no longer apply. In this episode of Connected Nation, Harmonic’s Jeff Glahn explains how providers are rethinking the way networks are built, upgraded, and managed. From plug-and-play solutions to AI driven insights, this conversation explores how a more flexible, customer-focused approach is taking shape.

Related links:
Harmonic's website

Company's LinkedIn 

Jeff Glahn's LinkedIn 

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Building broadband faster isn’t just about technology. It’s about how you design it.

In this episode of Connected Nation, Clearfield’s Anis Khemakhem explains how “labor-light” fiber solutions, modular design, and practical innovation are helping networks scale faster, stay resilient, and prepare for the real-world demands of AI.

Related links:
Clearfield website
Clearfield LinkedIn
Anis Khemakhem LinkedIn

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Broadband isn’t just about faster speeds. It’s reshaping how communities access healthcare, education, and innovation.

In this episode of Connected Nation, host Jessica Denson talks with Tracy Doaks of MCNC and Dr. John Graham of NCTNA at Fiber Connect 2026. They explore how North Carolina’s statewide fiber network is powering everything from AI research to “medical-grade” connectivity that supports telehealth across rural communities.

Related links:
MCNC website

NC Telehealth Network Association website

MCNC on LinkedIn 

NC Telehealth Network Association LinkedIn

Tracy Doaks' LinkedIn

Dr. John Graham's LinkedIn

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Some communities are still falling through the cracks of broadband expansion.

In this episode of Connected Nation, host Jessica Denson talks with Bo Coughlin, President of eNCore, about the persistent “donut holes" in North Carolina and what it will take to close them. 

From overlooked rural communities to the real-world consequences of disconnection, this conversation makes one thing clear: closing the gap can’t wait.

Related links:
Website - https://encorenc.org/
Mr. Coughlin's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bocoughlin/