The Fiber

Hosted by LiveOak Fiber

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Episodes

Latest episode

Oct 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to "The Fiber" podcast, brought to you by LiveOak Fiber. Join us as we dive into the exciting world of the telecom industry, exploring the cutting-edge realm of fiber optic technology. Each episode will feature knowledgeable guests, industry experts, telecom enthusiasts engaging in insightful conversations and thought-provoking discussions. We'll also welcome guests from the communities we serve to weigh in and be a part our impact and growth. From industry trends and innovations to in-depth explorations of fiber optic networks, "The Fiber" podcast is your go-to resource for all things telecom. Tune in and join the conversation as we unravel the intricacies of this ever-evolving industry.

Listen to episodes

41 recent

October 7, 202651 min

From Mortgages to Motorsports: A Conversation with Mortgage Apex Owner Albert Sousa

In this episode of The Fiber , Garret O'Leary sits down with Albert Sousa, owner of Mortgage Apex, to discuss his journey into the mortgage industry and what inspired him to start his own company. Albert shares insights into today's mortgage landscape, how he helps homebuyers navigate the lending process, and why he's passionate about educating the community through informational events focused on homeownership. We also explore his entrepreneurial mindset, commitment to serving clients, and his passion for cars and racing. Whether you're considering buying a home, interested in entrepreneurship, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind successful local businesses, this episode is packed with valuable insights and conversation. 🎧 Watch the full episode here on YouTube 🎙️ Also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

September 2, 20261 hr 7 min

How to Build a Successful Business: Advice from Entrepreneur Tevan Millette

What does it really take to build a successful business? Entrepreneur and military leader Tevan Millette joins The Fiber to share his experience building businesses, overcoming obstacles, and creating opportunities for long-term success. Throughout the conversation, Tevan offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, discusses what keeps him motivated, and shares insights from his latest venture, Brilvont Business Brokers & Exit Advisory. If you're thinking about starting a business, growing one, or eventually selling one, this episode is filled with valuable lessons from someone who has done it firsthand. 🎧 Available now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Personally, I'd go with Option 1. It positions Tevan as the expert, emphasizes entrepreneurship (the main value of the episode), and sounds professional without feeling generic.

July 1, 202653 min

Bringing AI into Healthcare with Dr. Liz Robison

In this episode of The Fiber, Garret O’Leary and Steve Smith (CRO of LiveOak Fiber) sit down with Dr. Liz Robison—former Northwest Florida State College professor, U.S. Air Force nurse, and healthcare leader. Dr. Robison shares insights from her unique career path, from serving in the military to leading in healthcare settings—and how those experiences now shape her work at the intersection of technology and medicine. The conversation dives deep into one of the most exciting developments in healthcare today: the use of AI in training the next generation of nurses. Dr. Robison explains how AI-powered simulation is transforming nursing education, helping students build critical thinking skills, improve decision-making, and better prepare for real-world patient care before ever stepping into a clinical environment. If you’re interested in healthcare, education, technology, or leadership, this episode offers a fascinating look at how innovation is reshaping the future of care.

June 1, 20261 hr 0 min

Inside the Newsroom: Ethics, Storytelling, and Local Journalism with Christopher Saul

In this episode, we sit down with Christopher Saul, publisher of Mid Bay News , for a behind-the-scenes look at local journalism on the Emerald Coast. Chris shares insights into the stories he’s covered, how he determines what’s newsworthy, and the ethical considerations that guide his reporting. From breaking news to responsible storytelling, this conversation dives into what it really means to serve a community through journalism.

May 6, 202643 min

A Conversation with LiveOak Fiber's First Customer | The Fiber

In this episode of The Fiber, Garret O’Leary sits down with a very special guest—LiveOak Fiber’s first-ever customer… his brother, Sean O’Leary. While it might sound planned, it actually came down to timing. Because of where LiveOak’s fiber network construction began and when service first became available, Sean’s home was among the first eligible for installation—making him the very first customer to sign up. In this conversation, we cover: What it was like being LiveOak Fiber’s first customer The early experience of getting fiber internet installed Sean's Musical past Sean’s work as a real estate investor on the Emerald Coast Whether you’re curious about fiber internet, building a network from the ground up, or real estate along the Emerald Coast, this episode has a little bit of everything. 🎧 Listen to The Fiber on: Apple Podcasts & Spotify

April 1, 202647 min

The Secrets to Great Texas Style Barbecue with Jim Wells | The Fiber Podcast

In this episode of the Fiber Podcast, Garret sits down with Jim Wells, owner of Papa's Smokehouse in Niceville Florida. Jim talks Garret through what motivated him to start Papa's Smokehouse, what makes the food they serve so delicious, why he loves the local community, and why he loves serving them.

March 12, 202654 min

How Former PGA Tour Pro Rob Strano Helps Golfers Improve Their Game | The Fiber Podcast

In this episode of The Fiber Podcast , Garret O’Leary sits down with Rob Strano , former professional golfer and owner of Strano Golf in Niceville, Florida. Rob spent 18 years competing professionally , including time on the PGA Tour and other professional tours , before transitioning into coaching and player development. Today, he runs Strano Golf, a premier golf academy where players of all skill levels work to improve their game using advanced golf simulators and modern training technology . During the conversation, Rob shares stories from his professional golf career, what it was like competing at the highest levels of the game, and how those experiences shape the way he now coaches players. Garret and Rob also discuss: • Rob’s journey through professional golf • The transition from touring professional to coach • How technology is changing the way golfers train • What players of all skill levels can do to improve their game If you're a golf fan or someone looking to improve your game, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. 🎧 Listen to The Fiber Podcast: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify 📍 Strano Golf – Niceville, Florida

February 10, 202639 min

Meet Raynette Palmer | How LiveOak Fiber Engages the Savannah Community

In this episode of The Fiber Podcast , we’re introducing you to Raynette Palmer , LiveOak Fiber’s Community Engagement Manager for the Savannah market. Raynette shares her background, what community engagement really looks like day-to-day, and how LiveOak Fiber is connecting with local organizations, businesses, and neighborhoods throughout Savannah. From showing up at local events to building meaningful partnerships, this conversation gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how we’re working to be more than just an internet provider — we’re aiming to be an active part of the communities we serve. If you live in the Savannah area or want to learn how LiveOak Fiber engages locally, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen to The Fiber Podcast: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify 📍 Serving Savannah and surrounding communities 👉 Learn more about LiveOak Fiber: [link]

January 2, 202652 min

The Fiber: Reflecting on 2025 & What’s Coming for LiveOak in 2026

On this episode of The Fiber, Garret O’Leary sits down with Steve Smith, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveOak Fiber, for a candid conversation to close out 2025 and kick off 2026 with momentum. We break down: 💡 What LiveOak learned as a company in 2025 🚀 What customers and communities can look forward to in 2026 📍 How we’re planning for growth across our markets 🍽️ And yes… we definitely talk food (because how could we not?) Whether you're a customer, community partner, or just love keeping up with the fiber internet world, this episode is the perfect way to get a look behind the scenes at LiveOak Fiber. 📌 Watch now to hear what’s coming next for high-speed fiber internet in the Southeast! 👇 Subscribe for more episodes of The Fiber

December 2, 202550 min

The Fiber Podcast: David Schmidt on Fort Walton Beach Growth & City Projects

In this episode of The Fiber , hosts Garret O’Leary and Steve Smith sit down with David Schmidt , Business Manager at BluePoint Financial and Fort Walton Beach City Council Member . David shares insight into the ongoing projects shaping Fort Walton Beach, how local leadership is driving growth, and what’s ahead for the city. He also talks about balancing his professional career with public service and the importance of community involvement in local progress. Tune in for an inside look at the developments transforming Fort Walton Beach and the people making it happen.