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 Matt Wells of Bob Hull Inc., an underground contractor specializing in broadband infrastructure in the Midwest. Matt shares his journey from running a bar to leading a respected contracting company and offers insights into the challenges of the industry, including labor shortages, supply chain issues, and the growing demand for broadband expansion.

The conversation explores the importance of strong relationships in the industry—both with employees and subcontractors—as well as the impact of federal funding initiatives like the BEAD program. Matt’s candid and engaging storytelling provides an inside look at what it takes to keep fiber in the ground, maintain a strong workforce, and navigate the evolving broadband landscape.

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 Jon Reddemann, Regional Manager with nVent, to discuss his journey in the HVAC industry, the challenges and strategies in technical sales, and the evolving role of energy storage in modern infrastructure.

Jon shares insights into his career transition from managing aftermarket services to sales, the importance of preparation in sales strategy, and how relationship-building plays a crucial role in securing long-term customers. He also discusses his passion for motorcycles, his experience running his own HVAC company, and how that hands-on background has influenced his approach to sales and customer service.

The conversation also dives into critical infrastructure topics such as cooling solutions for battery storage, the role of HVAC in data centers, and the future of nuclear energy versus renewable sources. Throughout the discussion, Jon emphasizes the importance of integrity, customer service, and mentorship in the industry.

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, we sit down with Phillip Kenslow, a key member of CBM’s Inside Sales team, to discuss his journey, experiences, and insights in the telecommunications industry. Phillip shares how he transitioned into his role, the mentorship that has shaped his career, and what makes CBM’s team culture unique. He also sheds light on what inside sales truly involves—beyond emails and phone calls—and how the team celebrates every win together.

Whether you're in sales, telecommunications, or just love hearing about great company culture, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in to hear about Phillip’s growth, his favorite aspects of CBM, and what makes their employee-owned model so special.

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 Brett Cooper, Vice President of Communications and Commercial Industrial at CBM. Brett shares his insights on leadership, mentorship, and the evolving dynamics of the industries CBM serves. With over 18 years at CBM, Brett’s journey from distribution sales to leading two major markets has been shaped by his passion for people, problem-solving, and a commitment to customer success.

Throughout the conversation, Brett and Tim discuss the challenges of sales, the importance of relationships in business, and how CBM’s ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) structure fosters a culture of ownership and long-term success. They also dive into leadership philosophies, team building, and what it takes to thrive in today’s fast-changing market. Whether you’re a business leader, a sales professional, or someone interested in company culture, this episode is packed with valuable 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.

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

In this episode, we sit down with Pat Estenson from Polywater to discuss insights from the Mid-American Telecom Seminar and Showcase in Kansas City. Pat shares his experiences transitioning from the electrical side of the industry to the communications division, the evolving role of manufacturers and reps, and the challenges and opportunities in the telecom space. We dive into the importance of strong rep relationships, how distribution dynamics are shifting, and what manufacturers can do to make working with them easier. Whether you're in sales, manufacturing, or telecom, this episode provides valuable takeaways on navigating partnerships and industry changes.

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 industry veteran Mike Lamb, who has been in the telecommunications and fiber optics industry for over five decades. Mike shares his journey from testing radar and missile systems in the late ‘60s to witnessing and contributing to the evolution of fiber optics. He provides insight into how fiber technology has transformed over the years, discusses the importance of relationships in the industry, and reflects on the challenges and lessons he’s learned throughout his career.

Mike also dives into the business of fiber, the impact of technological advancements, and what the future holds for fiber optics, including developments like hollow-core fiber. He also shares personal stories about balancing work and family, the importance of mentorship, and what has kept him passionate about his work for over 50 years.

This episode is packed with insights, humor, and wisdom from one of the industry's most respected figures. Whether you’re a fiber optics professional, a telecom enthusiast, or just curious about the evolution of communications technology, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!

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, we sit down with Oscar Perez, the new Sales Manager for Fusion Splicers at OFS, to discuss his transition into the broadband industry. Oscar shares insights about his career journey from IT to technical sales, his experiences at trade shows, and the challenges of learning the intricate details of the fiber and cabling industry. We explore how he plans to strengthen relationships with customers and adapt to the evolving demands of his new role. This episode offers a candid and inspiring look at the value of mentorship, teamwork, and personal growth within the industry.

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 David Gordon, founder of Channel Marketing Group, to dive into the evolving landscape of marketing and sales in the electrical and HVAC industries. David shares his insights on what it takes to create demand, the role of marketing in building brand preference, and the strategies reps and agencies can employ to stay ahead in a rapidly changing market. From leveraging AI to fostering generational collaboration in the workplace, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for anyone looking to enhance their business's performance.

Whether you're a sales rep, a distributor, or a manufacturer, this episode is packed with actionable advice on how to implement effective marketing strategies, drive growth, and prepare for the future of the industry.

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, we welcome our newest team member, Chris Kitterman, who recently joined the CBM family. Chris shares his initial impressions of the company and his excitement about taking on his new role. Coming from a background in telecommunications, Chris is eager to build relationships with customers in Iowa and Nebraska, focusing on understanding their needs and delivering top-notch support.

We also discuss Chris's first experience attending the Mid-American Telecom Seminar and Showcase (MATSS), where he dives into the world of CBM products and services, networking with industry professionals, and learning from seasoned mentors. Join us as we get to know Chris and hear about his plans to make a meaningful impact at CBM.

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 his colleague Tim Drake, Vice President of the Utility Group at CBM, to explore the values and practices that drive both personal and professional success. With years of shared experience, the two Tims reflect on what makes CBM a standout company in the industry and discuss the importance of relationships, leadership, and legacy. Listeners will gain insights into Drake’s journey from being one of 13 children to becoming a key leader in an employee-owned company. This episode is rich with lessons on building trust, fostering teamwork, and maintaining a values-driven approach to life and work.

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.