In this episode, we are joined by Lee Ayers, VP of Engineering at Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative. Lee has dedicated 37 years to Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative. He prioritizes members' needs and championed broadband integration for their benefit - first with a smart-grid implementation then fiber to the community. With a passion for progress, Lee's vision and caring nature drive the cooperative towards a brighter future. “Electric 2.0 as he likes to say.” 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.mcecoop.com/products-services/fiber-optic-internet/

On this episode, we are joined by Mark Ponton, Director, Broadband and Fiber Services at Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC). REC is a member-owned utility that provides electric service to nearly 170,000 connections in 22 Virginia counties from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay. Mark leads REC's efforts to expand broadband services and bridge the digital divide in rural communities. His commitment to equitable connectivity drives REC's mission to empower individuals and build community development through broadband access. Click below to listen. Also, be sure to subscribe to the Broadband Bunch so you never miss an episode.

To learn more: https://www.myrec.coop/broadband

On this episode, we are joined by Ron Beck, interim President, and CEO of the Utilities Technology Council (UTC) a global trade association dedicated to creating a favorable business, regulatory, and technological environment for critical infrastructure providers. With a renewed focus on broadband technology, Ron is leading efforts to promote its adoption and advancement in the utility sector. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

https://utc.org

Joe Valandra is the President and CEO of Tribal Ready, a leading organization dedicated to supporting Native communities. With a focus on self-determination, Joe provides resources, technical expertise, and a dynamic platform for Natives to access information, collaboration, and the funding they deserve. His leadership drives positive change, empowering Indigenous peoples to control their own destiny and thrive. Click the link below to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode

In this episode, we are joined by Greg Wilson the Founder of Automation Exchange, a South African company now operating in the United States. Specializing in systems and automation for the fiber to the premises (FTTP) industry, Greg has led the company to become a leading provider of advanced automated solutions. His visionary leadership and passion for innovation have transformed FTTP deployment, making Automation Exchange a trusted partner in transforming communication networks. Click the link below to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

https://aexinc.com

In this episode, we are joined Jeff Fraleigh, President of ETI Software. We dig into the importance and impact of AI on the broadband industry and discuss why this generational idea has everyone buzzing with excitement. Click the link below to listen as chat about the boundless potential of AI, revolutionizing connectivity and transforming everyone’s digital experiences. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

ETI Software is the founding sponsor of The Broadband Bunch. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to them for their unwavering support of our podcast and the broadband Industry.

To learn more about them: https://etisoftware.com

On this episode we are joined by Brett Kilbourne, Senior VP & General Counsel at the Utilities Technology Council. Brett chats with Brad at this year's annual UTC event in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Brett specializes in assisting utilities in navigating legal and regulatory issues related to broadband. Throughout his career, Brett has established himself as a trusted advisor, providing strategic counsel and guidance to utilities in understanding the complex legal landscape. Click now to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

https://utctelecom.org

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, we are joined by Amanda Ellis, Editor and Chief of Livibility.com a site that promotes small to mid-size cities and the benefits of living there. Not surprisingly, when someone decides to move to a new area one of the key drivers is access to the internet. Join Kaleigh Cox as she and Amanda talk about the importance of communities promoting their internet access. Click the link below to listen. Also, subscribe to the broadband bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

https://livability.com

In this episode, we are joined by Kim Young, President of MKY Ventures. Kim Young is a dedicated grant writer specializing in broadband projects targeted at unserved and underserved communities. Kim’s grant writing experience makes her an invaluable resource for communities in obtaining funding for projects focused on improving internet access and closing the digital divide. Click the link below to learn about this often-overlooked but important subject. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

In this episode of the Broadband Bunch, we are joined by Josh Hildebrandt, the Director of Broadband Initiatives at the Georgia Technology Authority. Josh is dedicated to ending the digital divide in Georgia by ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet statewide. Josh's leadership is leading to significant advancements in broadband coverage and affordability, particularly in underserved areas. He is an advocate for innovative solutions and partnerships that promote digital inclusion for all Georgians. Click the link below to listen. Also, subscribe to the Broadband Bunch on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

https://gta.georgia.gov/broadband