In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live at the CBAN Annual Conference in Ames, Iowa, host Brad Hine sits down with broadband leader and digital equity advocate Deb Socia. Recently retired from her role as CEO of The Enterprise Center in Chattanooga, Deb shares insights from her decades of experience supporting community broadband, digital inclusion, and infrastructure development.

They discuss the importance of early and strategic marketing for broadband builds, challenges around funding and predictability for ISPs and nonprofits, and the evolving role of local ownership in fostering digital equity and community pride. Deb shares stories—from seniors learning to FaceTime their grandchildren to middle school students mapping free Wi-Fi hotspots—that highlight how connectivity transforms lives.

They also touch on the value of storytelling and data in building stakeholder support, the influence of education on community tech adoption, and how to cultivate the next generation of broadband leaders. This conversation offers a blend of policy perspective, community insight, and actionable advice for anyone working to bridge the digital divide.