
From Accounting to CEO: Mitch Bailey
From Power the Network by CLEAVES-BESSMER-MARIETTI, INC.
March 19, 2026 · 50 min · Episode 60
About this episode
Mitch Bailey, CEO of GRM Networks, discusses the success of a 75-year-old rural broadband cooperative and his journey from accounting to CEO.
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact Discover how a 75-year-old rural broadband cooperative not only survives but thrives against modern competition. Learn the secrets to community-focused success that investor-owned companies miss. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Mitch Bailey, CEO of GRM Networks, to explore the incredible story of a 75-year-old rural telco. They dive deep into the cooperative business model, discussing how putting member-owners first creates a powerful competitive advantage. Viewers will learn how GRM Networks proactively built out a 100% fiber network, navigated broadband competition from satellite and wireless providers, and strategically expanded into urban markets. This interview is a must-watch for anyone in the telecommunications industry, community leaders interested in rural development, and business professionals looking for insights into sustainable, community-focused growth and leadership. Mitch also shares his personal journey from an accounting background to the CEO's chair, offering valuable lessons on leadership, empowerment, and…
People in this episode
Host: Tim Locker
Guest: Mitch Bailey
Topics covered
- rural broadband
- cooperative business model
- telecommunications
- leadership
- community development
- fiber network
Keywords
- broadband
- cooperative
- telecom
- leadership
- community-focused
- fiber network
- urban expansion
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: GRM Networks, CBM, CLEAVES-BESSMER-MARIETTI, INC.
Places: rural, urban, United States
More episodes of Power the Network
- John Mitchell Pt 2 | The SECRET to AI-Powered Lead Gen · June 11, 2026 · 28 min
- From Frustrated Rep to CRM Founder: John Mitchell's Rep Fabric Journey · May 28, 2026 · 31 min
- Mastering Sales: Frank Foster's 30+ Years of Rep Training Secrets · May 14, 2026 · 45 min
- Tom Forshee | Building a Billion Dollar Blinking Light Brand · April 30, 2026 · 35 min
- Chris Shoe | Why Smart Towns and Community Wi-Fi are Changing Rural America · April 16, 2026 · 46 min
- Matt Webster | Smart Streetlights Are Revolutionizing Cities · April 2, 2026 · 40 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Power the Network podcast page.