Power the Network

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Scaling a fiber broadband network in a competitive market isn't easy. Discover how Gateway Fiber navigates growth, supply chains, and infrastructure hurdles. In this insightful episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Jason Johns, VP of Network Development at Gateway Fiber, to discuss the rapid evolution of the fiber broadband industry. Two years after his last appearance, Jason provides an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of managing massive scaling efforts across multiple states. From navigating global supply chain pressure to implementing fiber-first expansion strategies, this conversation covers the operational realities of building modern connectivity in a crowded marketplace. They also explore the complexities of municipal permitting, the importance of robust customer-centric service models, and the evolving role of government grants like BEAD. Whether you are a telecom professional, infrastructure stakeholder, or industry enthusiast, this episode delivers actionable insights into the future of network development, the importance of long-term vendor partnerships, and the secrets to fostering a healthy corporate culture in a high-growth environment. Join us as we examine what it takes to build a network that truly serves the customer while staying agile and profitable. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker, VP of Broadband at CBM, sits down with Mike Daffron from EnerSys to unpack the growing world of data centers—how they consume massive amounts of energy, the evolving technology behind backup power, and what it means for the grid. Daffron, a veteran in the energy storage industry, shares firsthand insight into what’s happening inside the modern data center—from soaring power loads to the shift toward safer, longer-lasting battery systems. The conversation ranges from the macro scale of national energy infrastructure down to the chemistry of pure lead batteries and their role in keeping critical systems online. Along the way, Daffron also shares stories about his unique sales approach, the evolution of lithium technology, and the mentors who helped shape his career. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this milestone episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker welcomes back Dan Levac of PLP for a special conversation celebrating the podcast’s two-part 50th episode and two-year anniversary. Dan was the very first guest when the show launched, and now he returns to reflect on what’s changed since that initial discussion—particularly around BEAD funding, infrastructure challenges, and the evolving broadband landscape. The conversation dives deep into the state of broadband initiatives, the realities of fiber deployment, and the role of alternative technologies. Dan emphasizes the long-term value of fiber as core infrastructure, its impact on everything from education to agriculture, and why investment decisions today will shape opportunities for generations to come. The episode also covers manufacturing challenges, BABA compliance, workforce development, and how organizations like PCCA and PLP are helping prepare the next generation of technicians, splicers, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re in telecom, government, or just passionate about connectivity, this episode sheds light on the opportunities and challenges facing the broadband industry today—and why the work being done now matters for every community. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠ In this special episode of Power of the Network, the script is flipped. Instead of hosting, Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, becomes the guest as Brett Cooper takes over the interviewer’s chair. This candid conversation dives into Tim’s 17-year journey at CBM, his transition into broadband leadership, and his vision for breaking down silos within the company to create a stronger “One CBM” culture. Tim opens up about his career path—from construction work and fiber splicing to equipment sales and eventually leading CBM’s broadband initiatives. He shares how his technical background and real-world experience foster trust with customers and empower teammates. The discussion also explores the unique ESOP ownership culture at CBM, why teamwork drives success, and how personal values like family and mentorship shape Tim’s leadership style. Listeners will gain an inside look at the man behind the mic and how his story reflects CBM’s commitment to expertise, collaboration, and growth. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with HR expert and longtime CBM partner, Nancye Combs. With nearly 40 years of experience, Nancye brings insight, clarity, and some hard-earned wisdom to one of the most complex areas of business: human resources. From hiring the right people to managing crisis situations and building organizational bench strength, Nancye walks listeners through what it means to run a people-first business that also protects the bottom line. Listeners will gain practical strategies for smarter hiring, tips on navigating the post-COVID workplace, and a better understanding of how HR policies can protect both employees and leadership. Whether you're in HR or executive leadership, or just trying to grow your influence at work, this episode is packed with candid advice and memorable insights. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power the Network, host Marla Sparks sits down with Dirk Schwartzkopf, Director of Plant Operations at GRM Networks. With nearly three decades of experience in telecommunications, Dirk offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how GRM has navigated everything from supply chain chaos during the COVID-19 pandemic to rural broadband expansion and BEAD funding. He shares stories from his career journey—starting as a field tech, shaped by his Marine Corps background—and reflects on the importance of relationships, mentorship, and adaptability in an evolving industry. The episode is rich with insights into GRM's forward-thinking strategies, including fiber builds across Missouri and Iowa, vendor relationship management, and workforce development. If you're in telecom or just curious about what it takes to keep rural America connected, this conversation delivers both technical insights and heartfelt leadership advice. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.