Power the Network

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠

In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, sits down with Max Bohon, National Sales Manager for Preformed Line Products (PLP) on the utility side. CBM and PLP share over 60 years of partnership, and this conversation dives into Max’s career journey, PLP’s company culture, industry changes, and the keys to professional growth in a fast-evolving utility and broadband market.

Max shares how his engineering background unexpectedly led him into sales, his approach to continuous learning, and the importance of adaptability in an industry where both power and communications technology are rapidly changing. They discuss the challenges of selling new products to crews resistant to change, PLP’s commitment to domestic manufacturing and product quality, and the traits that help young professionals succeed in this field. The conversation also touches on sports, mentorship, and the value of company culture that fosters long-term employee retention.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with HR expert and longtime CBM partner, Nancye Combs. With nearly 40 years of experience, Nancye brings insight, clarity, and some hard-earned wisdom to one of the most complex areas of business: human resources. From hiring the right people to managing crisis situations and building organizational bench strength, Nancye walks listeners through what it means to run a people-first business that also protects the bottom line.

Listeners will gain practical strategies for smarter hiring, tips on navigating the post-COVID workplace, and a better understanding of how HR policies can protect both employees and leadership. Whether you're in HR or executive leadership, or just trying to grow your influence at work, this episode is packed with candid advice and memorable insights.

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

In this episode of Power of the Network, CBM’s Tim Locker sits down with Bob Kalivoda, VP of Sales for North America at nVent. Bob brings decades of experience in sales leadership and coaching, drawing from both his professional career and time as a youth football coach. The conversation dives into Bob’s journey from frontline sales to global leadership, his approach to relationship building, and how nVent and Hoffman are evolving to meet the demands of automation, energy storage, and sustainability.

Listeners will get insights into how nVent is helping customers solve real-world challenges, especially in automation and thermal management, and why mentorship, adaptability, and integrity remain key pillars of long-term success in sales.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Power the Network, host Marla Sparks sits down with Dirk Schwartzkopf, Director of Plant Operations at GRM Networks. With nearly three decades of experience in telecommunications, Dirk offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how GRM has navigated everything from supply chain chaos during the COVID-19 pandemic to rural broadband expansion and BEAD funding. He shares stories from his career journey—starting as a field tech, shaped by his Marine Corps background—and reflects on the importance of relationships, mentorship, and adaptability in an evolving industry.

The episode is rich with insights into GRM's forward-thinking strategies, including fiber builds across Missouri and Iowa, vendor relationship management, and workforce development. If you're in telecom or just curious about what it takes to keep rural America connected, this conversation delivers both technical insights and heartfelt leadership advice.

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠

In this episode of Power of the Network, guest host Marla Sparks sits down with Jake Jonnes, Executive VP of Operations at Polywater. What begins as a fun origin story, from wetsuit lubricant mishaps to a global cable lubricant empire, evolves into a deep dive into Polywater’s innovation culture, ESOP ownership model, and field-driven product development strategy.

Jake shares how a small family-run company in a Stillwater, MN basement became a trusted name in the utility and telecommunications sectors. From launching their new cable jacket repair solution to expanding global operations, Jake opens up about what drives Polywater’s success and why reps and customers alike keep coming back.

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠

In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Dave Lucas, Regional VP at Siemens Energy, to explore the current landscape of power generation and transmission. From global tariffs and sales cycles to the explosive growth of data centers and the impact of AI, this conversation dives deep into the real-world challenges and innovations shaping the utility sector.

Dave shares insights into Siemens Energy’s strategy for navigating supply chain uncertainty, adapting to evolving energy demands, and fostering long-term relationships with utilities and reps. He also discusses leadership, the importance of transparency, and how building strong relationships can outlast market cycles.

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠

In this special episode of Power of the Network, Tim Locker sits down with Marla Sparks, President of CBM, to celebrate the company’s 65th anniversary and reflect on its journey, values, and vision. Marla shares her story of entering the industry, her rise through the ranks, and the guiding principles that have sustained CBM across six decades. She also talks candidly about leadership, industry changes, and what it means to be an employee-owned company in a rapidly evolving market.

Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes CBM unique, how its employee-ownership model drives long-term relationships, and how strong leadership and culture empower team members to thrive. It's a thoughtful, personal conversation about longevity, legacy, and staying focused in times of change.

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact

In this special anniversary episode, host Tim Locker welcomes Duff Greenwood, former President and current Chairman of the Board of CBM, to reflect on the company’s 65-year legacy. Duff shares stories from his early days with CBM, the evolution of its ESOP culture, and the values that continue to drive success across decades.

Listeners will get an inside look at how CBM’s employee-ownership model transformed not just operations, but its leadership philosophy, hiring practices, and long-term vision. From the humble beginnings of a founder with a card table to a multi-market rep firm, Duff offers personal insights, anecdotes, and lessons learned along the way.

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact

In this insightful and heartwarming episode of "Power of the Network," host Tim Locker welcomes his long-time friend and mentor, Michael Kean, to discuss Michael's inspiring career in sales, personal values, and the importance of relationships in business. Michael reflects on his decades of experience, sharing candid stories from his early life and professional journey, including his tenure at Power and Telephone, and his post-retirement contributions to charity and community.

Michael emphasizes the significance of honesty, consistency, and adaptability in sales, underscoring that genuine relationships and trust remain essential despite changing business environments. The conversation also touches on personal endeavors, such as Michael's commitment to woodworking for the Pink Tractor Foundation, and managing the Telephone Museum at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact

In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker welcomes Paul Dickinson PhD, Director of Business Development at Dura-Line, to explore the latest advancements and applications in fiber optic technology, particularly fiber optic sensing. Paul, with his extensive 35-year background in fiber optics, discusses the evolution of fiber technology from its early technical issues to its present ubiquity in broadband access.

The conversation covers the transformative potential of fiber optic sensing technology, emphasizing its capabilities in monitoring critical infrastructure through acoustic, temperature, and strain detection. Paul also highlights the importance of raising awareness about this technology and its adoption in preventing damage and enhancing safety in utilities, transportation, and smart city projects.

If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.