The Broadband Bunch

In this episode, Brad Hine interviews Lori Adams from Nokia at Mountain Connect 2024 in Denver, Colorado. Lori provides key updates on Build America, Buy America (BABA) compliance and its implications for manufacturers, state governments, and applicants of the BEAD program. She explains the recent NTIA guidelines on self-certification, reporting requirements, and compliance enforcement, sharing Nokia's approach to meeting these standards. Lori also discusses how BABA impacts project costs, labor availability, and timelines, providing valuable insights for those navigating the complexities of federal broadband programs. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

To learn more: https://pages.nokia.com/T009BA-build-america-buy-america-what-you-need-to-know-today.html

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch podcast, Brad Randall, Chair of the upcoming Broadband Communities West Conference, sits down with host Brad Hine to discuss the much-anticipated inaugural event. Set for late October in San Diego, California, this conference will tackle key challenges and opportunities in broadband deployment, particularly in California’s diverse and expansive landscape. Brad shares his role in shaping the conference, insights on broadband development in the West, and how the industry is evolving through digital formats and new event landscapes. Click the link below to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

To sign up for the event: https://www.terrapinn.com/conference/broadband-communities-west/index.stm

In this episode, Pete Pizzutillo speaks with Trent Edwards, President of Broadband Solutions at TAC Communications. Edwards provides insights into the current broadband landscape, TAC’s evolution, and the significant role partnerships play in addressing industry challenges. With his extensive experience, Edwards discusses workforce issues, creative strategies for collaboration, and the importance of embracing new approaches to broadband construction. His forward-thinking perspective emphasizes cooperation and strategic preparation for the next wave of broadband infrastructure development. Click the link below to listen. Also subscribe to the Broadband Bunch so you never miss an episode.

To learn more: https://www.takcommunications.com

In this episode, we chat with Tyler Ashner, Broadband Services Manager at Swank Construction, about the company's strategic move into the fiber optics industry. Tyler shares his journey from military engineering to leading Swank’s role in Pennsylvania's $100 million statewide fiber optic deployment, emphasizing the company's expertise in microtrenching, traffic control, and quality craftsmanship. We explore the challenges and opportunities within the broadband sector, including the impact of the BEAD program, integration of DOT funds into smart highway projects, and labor shortages. Tyler also highlights Swank's vision for sustaining growth in the fiber optics sector and their plans for future infrastructure projects. Click the link below to listen now. Also subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

To learn more: https://swankco.com

In this episode, Pete Pizzutillo interviews Katie Curtis, CIO of Great Plains Communication, at this year’s Fiber Connect. Katie discusses the challenges and opportunities of integrating cloud-based architecture, the importance of data quality, and the impact of digital transformation on the customer experience. She emphasizes the necessity of investing in modern technology to remain competitive and how Great Plains Communication is setting a foundation for future growth through strategic system upgrades. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

To learn more: https://gpcom.com

In this episode Brad Hine speaks with Robert Griffin, a Tribal Leader of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. He discussion centers around the challenges of improving connectivity in rural areas, the nation’s ambitious goal of reaching 80% broadband coverage by 2027, and the importance of partnerships and grant funding in achieving these objectives. Additionally, Robert reflects on the Choctaw Nation’s rich history, including their contributions as Code Talkers, and how this legacy influences their current technological initiatives. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

To learn more: https://www.choctawnation.com/services/home-internet-connectivity/

In this episode, Pete Pizzutilo chats with Brian Snider and John Sullivan, the Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Revenue Officer of DXTel, at from Fiber Connect 2024. The guys share their personal journey from network operators to leaders at DXTel, highlighting how their unique platforms and managed services, give ISPs flexible, effective marketing solutions to take on the big incumbent carriers. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

To learn more: https://dxtel.net

In this episode, Brad Hine chats with Lori Adams, VP Broadband Policy and Funding Strategy at Nokia, to discuss the latest updates on the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. Lori provides valuable insights into how states like Louisiana are navigating the complex process, from securing Volume Two approvals to managing multiple funding streams simultaneously. With the pressure on states to meet tight deadlines and the looming challenge of limited construction resources, Lori offers a candid look at the hurdles and opportunities ahead. Click the link below to listen! Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

Can Lessons from Global Markets Unlock Success in U.S. Fiber Deployment?

In this episode, Pete Pizzutillo interviews Greg Wilson, CEO of Ripple Fiber, at FiberConnect. Greg shares insights on his journey from the South African fiber market to leading Ripple Fiber’s expansion in the U.S. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in different markets, Ripple Fiber’s strategy for identifying underserved areas, and their commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Greg also highlights the importance of innovation in overcoming market challenges and how Ripple Fiber plans to grow its presence across multiple states. Click now to listen. Also subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

To learn more:https://www.ripplefiber.com

In this episode, Pete Pizzutillo engages in a lively conversation with Curtis Dean, Executive Director of the Community Broadband Action Network (CBAN), from FiberConnect 2024. Dean offers a candid reflection on the event, sharing his thoughts on the importance of hallway conversations, the challenges and opportunities surrounding middle mile infrastructure, and the complexities of the BEAD program for small providers. The discussion dives into the critical role of public-private partnerships, the hurdles faced by rural providers, and the potential impact of recent legislative changes on broadband deployment. Dean emphasizes the need for strategic planning and collaboration to navigate the evolving landscape of community broadband. Click now to listen. Also subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

To learn more: https://broadbandaction.com