Connected Nation
This is Connected Nation – an award-winning podcast focused on all things broadband. From closing the Digital Divide to simply improving your internet speeds, we talk technology topics that impact all of us, our families, and our communities.The podcast was honored in 2024 with an Award of Excellence for Podcast Series - Technology. This is the highest honor given by the Communicator Awards. More recently, the podcast received an Award of Distinction in 2025. It received the same honor in 2023 and 2022.Learn more about the national nonprofit behind this podcast at connectednation.org.
Attention hyperscalers, political leaders, and decision-makers: This project can help America win the AI race
On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from Mountain Connect 2025 as we sit down with Connected Nation's very own Brent Legg, Executive Vice President, Government Affairs. We discuss the one-of-a-kind Connected Nation Internet Exchange Point (IXP) joint venture with Newby Ventures and why it's so important for the future of connectivity.
Learn about the latest policy and infrastructure needs—PLUS the challenges and opportunities ahead in 2025–2026.
Recommended links:
Newby Ventures
DE-CIX
Ivo Ivanov LinkedIn
Brent Legg LinkedIn
Hunter Newby LinkedIn
How a company with a century of experience in infrastructure is helping improve broadband
On this episode of Connected Nation, host Jessica Denson talks with Mike Miller, Broadband Practice Leader at HDR—a 107-year-old company that recently entered the broadband space.
Discover how HDR is leveraging its Matrix model to tackle complex challenges, from Dig Once initiatives to the rapid demand for data centers nationwide.
Learn why open access networks, middle-mile redundancy, and forward-thinking infrastructure planning are key to preparing for an AI-driven future.
Recommended Links:
Mike's LinkedIn
HDR's LinkedIn
How one company delivers on the promise of "frictionless" support for heavy hitters like Google and Verizon to small providers
On this episode of Connected Nation, recorded live at Mountain Connect 2025 in Denver, Colorado, host Jessica Denson sits down with Osmo’s Troy Cross, Vice President of Sales, and Sadie Conley, Demand Generation Specialist.
Osmo powers “frictionless support” for industry giants like AT&T, Google, and Verizon—helping customers resolve device issues quickly and easily.
Now, they’re turning their attention to smaller ISPs, offering scalable, cloud-based solutions that can give providers of any size the tools they need to act as their community’s “hometown CTO.”
Recommended Links:
Ozmo Website
Inside the NDIA with Executive Director Angela Siefer
On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from Mountain Connect 2025 as we sit down with Angela Siefer, Executive Director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). We discuss the origins and mission of NDIA, the evolving landscape of digital equity, and how AI is shaping the next Digital Divide.
Learn about the importance of local digital navigators, the role of ISPs and tech companies, and why digital inclusion is ultimately a human challenge.
Recommended links:
NDIA webpage
NDIA Linkedin
Angela Siefer Linkedin
From veterans to senior citizens: This is how Colorado State University Pueblo is tackling the need for digital literacy
On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from Mountain Connect 2025 with two women from Colorado State University Pueblo—Dana Lambert, Director of Digital Equity, and Juliann Sandoval, Digital Navigator.
Their program is closing the digital divide across southern Colorado by providing free laptops, broadband access, and personalized digital skills training to students, seniors, veterans, and others in need.
Learn how their work is making a difference, why digital literacy is still a major barrier in 2025, and what all of us can do to help more people succeed in a digital-first world.
...
The unique approach a New Mexico county is taking to developing an open access network
On this episode of Connected Nation, we kick off our Mountain Connect 2025 coverage from Denver, Colorado.
Jessica Denson sits down with Jerry Smith, Broadband Manager for Los Alamos County, New Mexico. The conversation dives into how his county is deploying an innovative open access fiber network, partnering with a sovereign tribal nation, and improving middle-mile redundancy in a remote but tech-savvy area.
Recommended Links:
Jerry's LinkedIn
Mountain Connect Website
The national Digital Divide Award goes to...
On this episode of Connected Nation, we wrap up our coverage from the 2025 Broadband Communities Summit in Houston, Texas.
Telecommunications legal expert Philip Macres breaks down the new BEAD rules—what’s good, what’s bad, and what’s uncertain—as states prepare for fast-moving deadlines and funding decisions.
Then we sit down with Megan Steckly, CEO of Compudopt, this year’s National Digital Divide Award winner, to hear how her nonprofit is on track to impact 1 million lives through digital inclusion.
Recommended Links:
Compudopt Website
Philip's LinkedIn
The exhibit booth no one wanted to miss at the 2025 Broadband Communities Summit
In this special bonus episode of Connected Nation, we take you straight to the heart of the action on the exhibit floor at the Broadband Communities Summit.
Join us as we explore the buzz around Interduct.com — the booth everyone was talking about. Discover why it captured so much attention.
Recommended Links:
Innerduct Website
Assessing telehealth attitudes and usage in Northwest Colorado
On this episode, we’re reporting from the Broadband Communities Summit in Houston, Texas, where we sit down with Molly Weiner, Director of Local and Regional Planning for Connected Nation.
Molly shares insights from a new telehealth study focused on seven rural counties in northwest Colorado, conducted in partnership with Colorado’s eHealth Innovation Office.
We explore why many residents still aren’t using telehealth, what’s holding them back, and how education, awareness, and digital skills can bridge the gap.
Recommended Links:
See the study HERE
CN Telehea...
BONUS EPISODE: Building open networks for others to own across the country
On this episode of Connected Nation, we've got some bonus coverage from the Broadband Community Summit. We talk with Drew Pappas from Bonfire Infrastructure Group on how they help communities, coops, Tribes, and others build open networks across the country.
Recommended links:
Bonfire Website
Guest's LinkedIn - Drew Pappas
This company is the Internet Service Provider of Internet Service Providers
On this episode of Connected Nation, we sit down with two representatives from Cogent Communications. We discuss the evolution of data centers, talk about Cogent's work globally, and find out what it's like being the Internet Service Provider of Internet Service Providers.
Recommended links:
Cogent website
Guests' LinkedIn: Jeff Reinis and Craig Grace
DirecTV's big changes and the company that's creating what connects us
In this episode of Connected Nation, host Jessica Denson continues coverage from the 2025 Broadband Communities Summit in Houston.
First, she sits down with Dawn Intili of DirecTV, who breaks down how the company is reshaping its services for the modern streaming era and expanding into multifamily dwellings with flexible, cost-effective options.
Then, Jessica chats with Scott Garnder and Duane Lyons of Dura-Line, who explain how fiber pathways are being built smarter — and how something called “FuturePath” could transform broadband deployment.
Tune in for insights on how infrastructure and content delivery are evolving...
Where civil rights and digital access meet
In this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from the Broadband Communities Summit in Houston, Texas.
Jessica Denson speaks with Tyler Dempsey and Shelby Smith of Sonar Software about what sets their OSS/BSS platform apart in a rapidly changing industry—and why launching their new podcast “Bandwidth” is part of building stronger connections.
Later, we hear from Adeyinka O. Ogunlegan, Chief of Staff and VP of Federal Affairs at the National Urban League. She shares why broadband access is a critical civil rights issue and how digital equity is foundational to economic empower...
You never know who you'll meet at the Broadband Communities Summit
On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage live from the Broadband Community Summit in Houston, Texas.
We talk with Heather Gate, Executive Vice President of Digital Transformation for Connected Nation about the summit and the topic she's focused on. But as you'll hear, things didn't quite go as we'd planned. I like to call this one. You never know who you're gonna meet when you're with Heather Gate.
Recommended Links:
WSU and CNIXP projectWichita State University (WSU)Digital LiftHeather Gate LinkedInTonya Witherspoon LinkedInKami Griffiths LinkedInFrom Middle Mile to high stakes in the High Court: MCNC's leadership tackles connectivity in a unique way
On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from the Broadband Community Summit, and we talk with the president and CEO of MCNC, about its role connecting schools and healthcare facilities across North Carolina.
We also talk about the importance of middle mile infrastructure and the high stakes of an upcoming court decision.
Recommended Links:
Microelectronics Center of North Carolina (MCNC) websitePodcast: High Stakes in the High Court as Nation Awaits USF DecisionTracy Doaks LinkedInWhy the SHLB Coalition's defense of the USF impacts us all
Today we begin our in-depth coverage of the Broadband Communities Summit taking place in Houston, Texas.
On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with Joseph Wender, Executive Director of the SHLB Coalition about what's happening this week to critical funding that's used to connect our nation's schools and libraries.
UPDATE: On June 27, the Supreme Court upheld the program in a 6-3 decision
Recommended Links:
Broadband Communities SummitSchools, Health, & Libraries Broadband CoalitionSupreme Court hears arguments on USF Constitutionality: Decision expected this summerConservatives target $8 billion internet and phone subsidy. Su...Meet “The Energy Expert” who says she can help revitalize your remote workforce
Why does workplace energy matter — and how can we build it?
Dana Spencer, known as “The Energy Expert,” joins us to share how she’s helping organizations revitalize employee productivity, morale, and team dynamics using her Five S framework.
From remote work boundaries to self-awareness and the power of a simple smile, this episode will leave you feeling recharged.
Recommended Links:
Dana Spencer's LinkedIn
Broadband leaders gather in Houston just weeks after BEAD's new rules are released
On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with a representative from the Broadband Communities Summit about the topics and speakers attendees can expect in Houston, Texas — and why now is a critical time to come together.
Find out what Brad Randall has to say about the new BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) rules—and how Total Telecom is involved in the Broadband Communities Summit.
Recommended Links:
Broadband Communities Summit 2025Total Telecom website Brad Randall LinkedinFrom 10 employees to 1,000: Nextlink Internet's story of radical, organic growth
On this episode of Connected Nation, we sit down with Bill Baker, CEO of Nextlink Internet, to explore how this Texas-based provider is leading the charge in expanding broadband across 12 states—serving some of the country’s most rural and underserved communities.
Baker shares the extraordinary origin story of Nextlink, explains what “radical, organic growth” means, and unpacks the company’s unique approach to fiber and fixed wireless deployment.
We also dive into the company’s major role in the federal E-Rate program, its partnerships with local governments, and what it takes to build resilient, rural broadba...
How proposed changes to E-rate could impact America's kids
On this episode of Connected Nation, we’re diving into proposed changes to the federal E-rate program — and what those changes could mean for schools, libraries, and the millions of students who rely on internet access to learn.
Our guest, Mark Colwell, Director of Broadband Operations at Mission Telecom, brings years of experience in federal and state broadband policy to the table. He explains how efforts to scale back E-Rate funding — particularly for Wi-Fi hotspots and off-campus access — could widen the “homework gap” and leave low-income families behind.
Learn why this issue matters right now, how it ties...
Before the storm: What ISPs can do as we enter hurricane season
Hurricane season is here — and it’s expected to be one of the most active on record. In this episode of Connected Nation, we sit down with three industry leaders who know exactly what it takes to keep people online before, during, and after a disaster.
Together, they unpack real lessons from 2024’s devastating Hurricane Helene, including how to prepare for outages, deploy emergency Wi-Fi, and coordinate with first responders — and why small and regional ISPs are critical lifelines in rural communities.
They also dive into innovative solutions like Calix's SmartTown, the power of resilient networks...
History in the making: Connected Nation breaks ground on Kansas’s first Internet Exchange Point
On this episode of Connected Nation, we take you to Wichita, Kansas for an historic event – the groundbreaking of the first Internet Exchange Point in the state.
We talk with those who have been working toward this moment for years – about what an Internet Exchange Point is, why it’s important to individuals, businesses, and communities, AND the effort to bring this same infrastructure to 125 towns across the country.
Related links:
CNIXP: connectednation.org/ixp
Wichita State University: https://www.wichita.edu/
Newby Ventures: https://www.newby-ventures.com/
DE...
The simple step small ISPs should be taking to grow their business
In this episode of Connected Nation, Jessica Denson revisits with Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband and AireBeam, to discuss the outsized impact that small and medium-sized internet service providers (ISPs) can have on closing the Digital Divide.
From strategic builds in underserved communities to innovative fiber solutions in mobile home parks, Ben shares how these regional providers are solving last-mile connectivity challenges, preparing for BEAD funding, and competing with big-name ISPs — all while putting customer service and community first.
Learn how being small actually offers a big advantage in today’s broadband landscape.
R...
A digitally inclusive journey: Meet the 2025 Student Broadband Hero Award winner
What do YOU think motivates some people to put their own needs aside to help others? We talked with one extraordinary teenager who is taking action to the close the Digital Divide – by helping both senior citizens and those dealing with homelessness.
On this episode of Connected Nation, we head to Birmingham, Alabama to meet the 2025 National Student Broadband Hero Award honoree – Michael Schmalz.
Related links:
Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T
Digital Harmonies
Press release announcing the 2025 Student Broadband Hero Award winner
AT&T’s commitment to digital learning at all ages
On this episode of Connected Nation, we wrap up our coverage of the Connected America conference with a powerful conversation about bridging the Digital Divide. Host Jessica Denson is joined by Viviana Cohuo, Lead Project Manager for AT&T’s Corporate Social Responsibility team.
They dive into AT&T’s nationwide efforts to build digital skills through programs like Teens Teach Tech powered by AT&T, Ready Tech Go workshops with National PTA, and new device donation initiatives.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or tech advocate, this episode highlights why digital literacy is essential for eve...
The Copper Countdown: What landline retirement means for you
The retirement of copper landlines is accelerating — and many businesses aren’t ready.
On this episode of Connected Nation, guest host Grant Ahlbrand speaks with Max Silber, Vice President of Mobility and IoT at MetTel, to explore why this shift is happening now, what it means for essential services and businesses, and how digital solutions can deliver safer, smarter, and more cost-effective communication infrastructure.
Whether you’re a business owner, IT manager, or simply curious about the future of connectivity, this conversation breaks down what you need to know to adapt and thrive in a post-cop...
Investing in our future: Sustaining K-12 digital access
On this episode of Connected Nation, we tackle a topic impacting millions of students across the country — how to sustain digital access in K-12 education.
As federal programs end, only 27% of states are ready to keep kids connected. Jessica Denson talks with Pam Lloyd, Ph.D., Strategic Advisor at Connected Nation, and Ji Soo Song, Director of Projects and Initiatives at SETDA, about a new report that outlines strategies to prevent students from falling behind.
Together, they explore what must happen next to ensure every student has the online access they need to succeed — now and in...
Empowering and connecting: Closing the digital skills and connectivity gap
In this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from the Connected America conference in Irving, Texas.
Our host, Jessica Denson sits down with the Editor-in-Chief at Working Nation, to discuss the importance of digital skills in today’s workforce and how digital navigators are bridging the connectivity gap.
Later, Jessica speaks with an individual from Lead for America about their efforts to support digitally disconnected rural communities through the American Connection Corps.
Tune in to learn how these organizations are working to ensure all Americans have the skills and access needed to th...
Why ISPs should evolve into experience providers—and who can help
On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with leadership from Calix – a company that “helps broadband service providers simplify, innovate, and grow.”
Learn how the company is shifting the focus from being a service provider to a “experience” provider, what exactly that means, and and how the unique approach is actually aiding in the response to natural disasters in the U-S.
Recommend Links:
Bridget Watkins LinkedinCalix websiteCelebrating five years: Exploring our best interviews and topics since 2020
On this episode of Connected Nation, we’re doing things a little bit differently. That’s because March 24, 2025 marks our five year anniversary since launching.
We’ll take you through the very distinct moment in time we got started, how we’ve evolved since, and what are favorite episodes have been over the last five years.
Related links:
Press release announcing five-year-anniversary
First episode (S1, Ep. 1) - Telemedicine in a time of Coronavirus: What a recent study on telehealth can teach us
Some favorite episodes:
S1, Ep. 10...
Tackling transitions: From being bought by another company to handling BEAD under a new administration
On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from the Connected America conference, where we dive into the latest in broadband innovation and policy.
First, we hear from Belden Precision Optical Technologies, a company that was recently acquired by Belden, about how this shift is driving new opportunities in fiber connectivity. Then, we sit down with Eric Frederick, Chief Connectivity Officer of the Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI), to discuss how Michigan is navigating BEAD funding and broadband expansion in a time of transition.
Don't miss these key insights into the future of co...
How the startup mentality is influencing broadband innovation
On this episode of Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from Connected America in Irving, Texas, by exploring the Startup Village, where innovation is driving connectivity forward.
First, we sit down with Huw Rees from NetExperience, a company revolutionizing managed Wi-Fi for apartments, student housing, and hotels. Then, we meet Yishai Amsterdamer, CEO of Litelinx, whose company is introducing smart fiber, a game-changing technology that streamlines deployment and maintenance.
These startups are tackling some of broadband’s biggest challenges—tune in to learn how their solutions could shape the future of connectivity!
Recomm...
The company whose innovation is inviting competitors to work together in the same space
We’re live from Connected America, exploring how internet exchange points (IXPs) improve connectivity across the U.S.!
Host Jessica Denson chats with De-CIX's Kelly Sieben, who uses a fun marble demo to explain how IXPs reduce latency and speed up internet access. Then, Ed d'Agostino dives deeper into why IXPs are critical for broadband expansion, how they impact everyday users, and why the U.S. is working to expand them beyond major cities.
Recommended Links:
Kelly Sieben LinkedIn
Ed d'Agostino LinkedIn
DE-CIX Website
Beyond access: Learning the digital skills to thrive online
Imagine living in today’s digital world without knowing how to access the internet, use a computer, or even navigate a mobile phone. It may surprise you to learn that this is a reality for millions of Americans.
On this episode, we explore the critical impact of digital literacy and how lacking essential skills affects everything from economic opportunities to health outcomes. Host Jessica Denson speaks with experts behind a new report that sheds light on the growing need for digital skills and what can be done to bridge the gap.
Tune in to...
Get a little help navigating the broadband landscape in 2025
Navigating the broadband landscape in 2025 is no easy task—especially as new policies, technologies, and funding opportunities emerge. In this episode of Connected Nation, host Jessica Denson sits down with an Editor at TotalTelecom, to discuss the key broadband issues and opportunities state and local leaders should be watching.
They’ll explore the themes shaping the upcoming Connected America Conference in Dallas, Texas, on March 11-12, as well as the challenges and strategies for broadband expansion under a new administration.
Recommended Links:
Brad Randall LinkedIn
Connected America 2025 Registration
Beyond wires and towers – the human infrastructure of broadband
Broadband isn’t just about fiber and wireless networks—it’s about people. In this episode of Connected Nation, we explore a groundbreaking research project that examines the individuals and programs working to close the Digital Divide.
Jessica Denson is joined by Dr. Revati Prasad from the Benton Institute for Broadband and Society and Dr. Caroline Stratton from the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) to discuss their findings, the challenges of digital inclusion, and what’s needed to ensure everyone has access to the internet.
Tune in to learn why broadband is more than just technology...
Telehealth experts on the future of senior healthcare in a tech-driven world
Telehealth has transformed how older adults access healthcare, but significant barriers still exist. In this special roundtable episode of Connected Naton, we're joined by a panel of telehealth experts to discuss how technology, innovation, and collaboration can improve healthcare access for aging populations.
PRODUCTION NOTE: One of the guests, Tom Kamber had a previous engagement that he had to step out for around the 30:00 minute mark.
Recommended Links:
Tom Kamber LinkedIn
OATS Website
Anoush Khachikyan LinkedIn
LVING Website
Kari Gray LinkedIn
CTN Website
Marisa Rossetti...
Ready, set, build: Tackling the challenges of large broadband buildouts now and in the future
The new year has arrived - bringing the long-awaited start of broadband expansion under the Broadband Equity Access and Development Program (BEAD). However, as all U.S. states and territories prepare to build simultaneously, new challenges are surfacing.
On this episode of Connected Nation, we’ll discuss these issues with a telecom industry leader covering topics ranging from strengthening the workforce to adopting best practices for rolling out large-scale broadband infrastructure.
Related links:
Matthew Langhoff Linkedin
MTA Solutions website
Planning, prioritizing, delivering: How Aurigo simplifies infrastructure challenges
State leaders across the US are about to embark on a massive undertaking to expand the nation’s broadband infrastructure – thanks to bipartisan legislation that funds the work.
On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with the CEO and founder of Aurigo Software Technologies, a company that’s helped plan, build, and manage some of the world’s largest infrastructure projects.
We ask what common mistakes state leaders can avoid and what opportunities they should be looking for as they begin laying the foundation for universal broadband in America.
Recommended Links:
Balaji's...
Behind the stories: 2024 highlights from the Connected Nation communications team
On today’s podcast – we’re doing something special to wrap up an incredible year.
We're bringing in the award-winning communications team that works behind the scenes daily to spread the word about Connected Nation’s impactful programs and projects – tackling digital inequities from coast to coast.
We’ll reflect on the biggest challenges, milestones, and victories of 2024, share personal highlights, and even give a glimpse of what’s to come in 2025.
Recommended Links:
Lily's Puerto Rico blog
Ashley & Grant's Interview w/ Marco & Alek
Kailynn's West Virginia story
