Episodes
266
Latest episode
Aug 2026
Language
EN-US
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 2026 and 2024 with an Award of Excellence for Podcast Series - Technology. This is the highest honor given by the Communicator Awards. In addition, the podcast received Awards of Distinction in the same category in 2025, 2023, and 2022. Learn more about the national nonprofit behind this podcast at connectednation.org. Interested in being one of our sponsors? Email us at info@connectednation.org.
Send us Fan MailBroadband is growing fast but not everyone is keeping up. In this episode of Connected Nation, industry veteran Scott Sampson breaks down the biggest mistakes ISPs are making and explains why AI, consolidation, and new funding are reshaping the market. Find out what he thinks it will take to survive what comes next.Related links: Scott Sampson's LinkedIn
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Connected Nation, we're talking about Connected Nation's attempt to set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the "longest internet literacy livestream" a 25-hour global event focused on building essential digital skills. We'll discuss how the idea came together, what participants can expect, why digital skills matter, and the impact this effort could have beyond the world record.Related links:Connected Nation World Record webpageHeather Gate LinkedInMolly Weiner LinkedIn
Send us Fan MailBroadband is shifting fast and the old rules no longer apply. In this episode of Connected Nation, Harmonic’s Jeff Glahn explains how providers are rethinking the way networks are built, upgraded, and managed. From plug-and-play solutions to AI driven insights, this conversation explores how a more flexible, customer-focused approach is taking shape.Related links:Harmonic's websiteCompany's LinkedIn Jeff Glahn's LinkedIn
Send us Fan MailBuilding broadband faster isn’t just about technology. It’s about how you design it.In this episode of Connected Nation, Clearfield’s Anis Khemakhem explains how “labor-light” fiber solutions, modular design, and practical innovation are helping networks scale faster, stay resilient, and prepare for the real-world demands of AI.Related links:Clearfield websiteClearfield LinkedIn Anis Khemakhem LinkedIn
Send us Fan MailBroadband isn’t just about faster speeds. It’s reshaping how communities access healthcare, education, and innovation.In this episode of Connected Nation, host Jessica Denson talks with Tracy Doaks of MCNC and Dr. John Graham of NCTNA at Fiber Connect 2026. They explore how North Carolina’s statewide fiber network is powering everything from AI research to “medical-grade” connectivity that supports telehealth across rural communities.Related links:MCNC websiteNC Telehealth Network Association website MCNC on LinkedIn NC Telehealth Network Association LinkedInTracy Doaks' LinkedInDr. John Graham's LinkedIn
Send us Fan MailSome communities are still falling through the cracks of broadband expansion.In this episode of Connected Nation, host Jessica Denson talks with Bo Coughlin, President of eNCore, about the persistent “donut holes" in North Carolina and what it will take to close them. From overlooked rural communities to the real-world consequences of disconnection, this conversation makes one thing clear: closing the gap can’t wait.Related links: Website - https://encorenc.org/Mr. Coughlin's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bocoughlin/
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when powerful technology becomes accessible to smaller broadband providers? At Fiber Connect 2026, we talk with Ian Oliver of Globema about the software, automation, and AI tools helping tier-two and tier-three ISPs work smarter, design networks faster, and better serve their customers. Plus, we discuss the future of fiber, the evolving role of cable networks, and why innovation isn't just for the biggest players in broadband.Recommended links:Ian Oliver LinkedInGlobema website
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when broadband networks become smart enough to manage themselves?Recorded live at Fiber Connect 2026, this episode of Connected Nation features Randy Van Buren of Motive Software Solutions for a fascinating conversation about the technologies shaping the future of connectivity. From backup internet systems that seamlessly switch between fiber, wireless, and satellite networks to the growing role of artificial intelligence in network management, Van Buren shares insights into how providers are building more resilient, efficient, and reliable broadband networks.If you've ever wondered how emerging technologies will keep people connected anytime, anywhere, this episode offers a glimpse into what's next.Recommended links: Randy Van Buren LinkedInMotive website
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a company trusted with defense, medical, and transportation tech turns its focus to broadband? Recorded at the Connected America Conference in Dallas, host Jessica Denson talks with leadership from Kontron about their entry into the telecommunications sector. We explore how their 'fail-safe' background is shaping a new, cost-effective approach to building and maintaining resilient networks. Recommended links:Sutton Underwood LinkedInRok Okorn LinkedInKontron LinkedInKontron website
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Connected Nation, we’re previewing Mountain Connect 2026 — and a timely, solution-driven opportunity for ISPs to overcome deployment challenges and accelerate broadband expansion nationwide. Listen as we discuss a new Hosted Buyer Program designed to connect ISPs with trusted partners, reduce deployment challenges, and even help cover the cost of attending the conference.Recommended links:Mountain Connect websiteMountain Connect agendaHosted Buyers ProgramJeffrey Gavlinski LinkedIn
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