Fiber for Breakfast with Gary Bolton

The U.S. broadband market is entering a new competitive phase as fiber expands deeper into legacy territories, fixed wireless scales across more markets, and public funding accelerates network deployment. With tens of billions in federal BEAD funding flowing into broadband, private capital fueling fiber builds, and operators making billion-dollar investment decisions, the stakes have never been higher. Yet much of the industry conversation still relies on incomplete data, marketing announcements, and anecdotal evidence. In this week’s Fiber for Breakfast, we take a deep dive into CostQuest’s two landmark Broadband in America reports to examine the real state of fiber deployment and competitive dynamics across the United States. Join Jim Stegeman, President & CEO of CostQuest, and Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, for a data-driven discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and offers actionable insights for industry stakeholders. Register now to join the conversation. With Special Guest: Jim Stegeman, CEO & President, CostQuest

On this episode of Fiber for Breakfast, hosted by Fiber Broadband Association President & CEO Gary Bolton, we’re joined by Mark Trudeau, Founder & CEO of OpenVault and Jeff Heynen, VP of Broadband Access and Home Networking at Dell'Oro Group to unpack the 4Q25 OpenVault Broadband Insights report. For the first time, the report compares Fiber and DOCSIS subscribers, revealing that symmetrical fiber speeds unlock significant pent-up upstream demand — with fiber users consuming 66% more upstream bandwidth. The conversation explores what this means for network investment, capacity planning, revenue growth, and the growing impact of absolute traffic increases on operator networks. Get your questions ready and register to attend! With Special Guests: Jeff Heynen, VP of Broadband Access and Home Networking, Dell'Oro Group Mark Trudeau, Founder & CEO, OpenVault

Fiber demand has reached a historic inflection point. In this episode of Fiber for Breakfast, Mike O’Day, head of Corning's Optical Communications business joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association and shares his perspective on a remarkable growth cycle as innovation accelerates and AI takes center stage. Mike explains how broadband expansion and the rapid buildout of AI infrastructure are reinforcing one another -- creating shortterm supply pressure, but an even larger, longterm opportunity for the industry. Today’s market is tight because the opportunity is big. Mike will discuss how Corning, celebrating its 175th year, is staying close to customers, investing in capacity, innovating to solve customer problems, and strengthening partnerships with rural operators. Mike will also highlight Corning's commitment to support BEAD with BABA-compliant components through the life of the program. Mike describes a virtuous cycle where more AI infrastructure leads to new AI applications, which fuels broadband demand -- which in turn requires more AI infrastructure. The takeaway is clear: BEAD and AI aren’t competing priorities — they’re part of the same growth cycle, with benefits extending far beyond fiber to communities and the broader digital economy. Register now to attend! With Special Guest: Michael O'Day, Sr. VP & GM, Optical Communications, Corning

For the past three years, Omdia has modeled and forecasted the impact of AI on network traffic through a cross-team effort spanning business and consumer trends, networks, hardware, software, devices, and facilities. In this week’s episode, Brian Washburn, Chief Analyst, Telco B2B Solutions, Omdia, joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to discuss Omdia’s latest AI network traffic reports, including its surveys, trackers, and forecasts. As AI accelerates, network providers worldwide must strike a balance between protecting their core business—mobile and fixed connectivity—and participating in the broader AI opportunity. Brian shares his analysis of the significant challenges providers will face as AI reshapes network demand, as well as where the potential exists to capture greater revenue from this adjacent opportunity—if they move strategically. Register now! With Special Guest: Brian Washburn, Chief Analyst, Telco B2B Solutions, Omdia

As BEAD funding moves from promise to reality, what comes next for US broadband? In this timely conversation, Carol Mattey – industry veteran and founding member/principal of Mattey Consulting LLC – joins President & GEO Gary Bolton of the Fiber Broadband Association to explore the long-term impact of the BEAD program and the future of connectivity. Join in the conversation as they examine whether gaps in broadband coverage will remain, how LEO satellite services may factor into the equation, and if today’s 100/20 Mbps standard will be adequate or need to be re-examined after BEAD projects are completed. The discussion also tackles who will ultimately be responsible for closing any remaining gaps – industry, government, or communities and whether the FCC’s Universal Service Fund could play a pivotal role. Register now! With Special Guest: Carol Mattey, Founder, Mattey Consulting LLC

On January 14, 2026, the California Public Advocates Office, in partnership with the University of California, Santa Barbara, released Broadband Competition and Pricing Strategies in California’s Urban Markets. The study examines how large incumbent providers respond to new competition from fiber and fixed wireless entrants across California’s urban communities. In this week’s episode of Fiber for Breakfast, Ernesto Falcon, Program Manager at the CPUC, joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to unpack the findings. Drawing on market-level pricing data and deployment patterns, the report shows that meaningful facilities-based competition—particularly from new fiber providers—drives lower promotional pricing, enhanced service offerings, and more aggressive customer retention strategies. Conversely, in markets without robust infrastructure competition, consumers often face higher prices under effective gigabit monopolies. The analysis reveals persistent market concentration across many urban areas and underscores the need for policies that promote sustainable infrastructure competition, pricing transparency, and strong consumer protections. With Special Guest: Ernesto Falcon, Program Manager, CPUC

On this episode of Fiber for Breakfast, we pull back the curtain on In-Line Amplifier (ILA) huts—the unsung infrastructure powering long-haul fiber networks. Michael Thomas, Regional Vice President of Integration at Network Connex, joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to explain how ILAs keep signals strong across hundreds of miles, reduce latency, and enable the rapid growth of AI and cloud services. They’ll also discuss why ILA placement is critical, how these sites are evolving into micro data centers, who’s building them, and how they could create new broadband opportunities for rural communities. With Special Guest: Michael Thomas, Regional Vice President of Integration, Network Connex

Virginia was recently awarded $545 million awards in federal funding through the BEAD program to expand high-speed internet access across the state. The BEAD awards will enable 23 internet service providers to extend broadband infrastructure to more than 133,000 remaining unserved homes, businesses, and community anchor institutions across the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth is technology neutrality in its approach for expanding broadband, though fiber projects are still projected to reach the majority of locations. On today’s Fiber for Breakfast, Dr. Tamarah Holmes, Director, Office of Broadband, Virginia ARC Program Manager joins Gary Bolton, President and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association to give us an update on her plans for addressing the digital divide in the state of Virginia. With Special Guest: Tamarah Holmes, Director of the Office of Broadband, DHCD

As AI adoption accelerates, tech leaders like Nvidia and OpenAI are tightening control over the full technology stack—from specialized chips and cloud infrastructure to the AI models driving innovation. Our guest this week is Asad Ramzanali, Director of Artificial Intelligence & Technology Policy at the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator, warns that this consolidation threatens competition, innovation, and the very infrastructure supporting communications. For network operators, maintaining openness and interoperability across networks, data centers, and cloud platforms is critical to enabling 5G, edge computing and AI-driven services. When a small number of firms dictate access to chips, models and compute, they risk creating bottlenecks and limiting agility. Join Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association as he and Asad unpack “the monopoly in the machine” and what telecom leaders can do to stay ahead. With Special Guest: Asad Ramzanali, Director of Artificial Intelligence & Technology Policy at the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator

In this episode of Fiber for Breakfast, we explore how Maryland is pioneering a first-of-its-kind “Single View” of all public broadband and digital infrastructure assets. This statewide platform centralizes planning and coordination by mapping everything from vertical assets and real estate ownership to existing networks, connectivity gaps, and future community needs. The approach is already delivering major results, including more than $3.5 million in savings on a recent ARC broadband grant. Eric Bathras, Chief Technology Officer for Maryland’s Office of Infrastructure, joins FBA President & CEO Gary Bolton to explain how this Goldilocks strategy—one investment serving many needs—helps states optimize resources, address un(der)served areas, and support transportation systems and community anchor institutions. Register now to learn how a unified infrastructure view can accelerate broadband expansion and drive more cost-effective digital policy. With Special Guests: Eric Bathras, CTO for the Office of ​Infrastructure​ at the Maryland Department of Information Technology

As the U.S. population ages, the demand for solutions that help seniors live independently is accelerating—while the healthcare and senior care workforce faces a growing staffing crisis. In this episode, Elizabeth Parks, President & CMO of Parks Associates, joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to unpack new research on the evolving market for independent living solutions for older adults. The conversation explores seniors’ desire for independence, family caregivers’ awareness and expectations, and the technologies gaining traction—from smart home systems and medical alerts to fall detection, mobility aids, home modifications, and community-based services. Elizabeth shares key insights into adoption barriers, trusted information channels, and practical strategies to overcome challenges, highlighting how connectivity and broadband-enabled solutions like fiber can play a critical role in supporting aging Americans.

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Brandy Reitter, Colorado’s State Broadband Officer, for a deep dive into the state’s broadband strategy following the “benefit of the bargain.” Brandy unpacks Colorado’s updated broadband plan, highlighting how the state is using a mix of technologies to serve communities with diverse needs—including how tribal locations influence deployment decisions. She also explains Colorado’s definition of reliable broadband and why it differs from the NTIA’s—offering valuable insight for providers preparing for the next funding rounds. Brandy joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to discuss and celebrate the critical role local ISPs and operators have played in Colorado’s success. Finally, she looks ahead to priorities for non-deployment funding, and how the state plans to build long-term resilience, digital equity, and operational excellence across all communities. With Special Guests: Brandy Reitter, Colorado’s State Broadband Office

After years of planning, the BEAD program is moving from paper to pavement—but approval is only the start. In this first episode of 2026, Kathryn de Wit, director of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ broadband access initiative, joins Fiber Broadband Association President & CEO Gary Bolton to examine what comes next as states begin building networks to reach nearly five million locations. Kathryn unpacks NTIA’s evolving guidance, the “curing” process, and the challenges ahead—from permitting and workforce shortages to supply chain pressures and non-deployment funding uncertainty. If you’re asking, “proposals are approved—now what?” this episode offers timely, practical insight into the work ahead and what it will take to turn BEAD’s ambition into lasting broadband impact. With Special Guests: Kathryn de Wit, director of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ broadband access initiative

What does 2026 hold for the future of fiber—and for the people shaping it? Join Jessica Koch, Controller at Consolidated Business Services and FBA Conference Committee Chair and Evann Freeman, VP, Government & Community Relations, EPB and FBA's Board Vice Chair and Conference Committee Board Liaison as they pull back the curtain on next year’s vision, offering a look at why Fiber Connect continues to position our industry light years ahead. They will also walk through the seven brand-new Regional Fiber Connect Workshops rolling out across the country and showcase bold, new programming for Fiber Connect 2026, taking place May 17–20 in Orlando. If you’re looking for insight, inspiration, and a glimpse of where the industry is headed, this episode sets the stage With Special Guests: Jessica Koch, Controller at Consolidated Business Services and FBA Conference Committee Chair Evann Freeman, VP, Government & Community Relations, EPB and FBA's Board Vice Chair and Conference Committee Board Liaison

In the last Fiber for Breakfast episode of 2025, Gary welcomes the Senior Director, Field and Partner Marketing at Adtran and the 2026 FBA Board Chair, Ash Brown. Ash will review FBA Board priorities for 2026, and will share FBA Policy updates and plans to engage with her constituents and the FBA working groups in the new year. Ash will also share the latest on Adtran. With Special Guest: Ash Brown, Senior Director, Field and Partner Marketing at Adtran and the 2026 FBA Board Chair

In this episode, we deliver the 2025 annual deployment update on the progress and prospects for fiber broadband—what’s been built, what’s ahead, and what it means for the telecommunications industry. Mike Render, President of RVA, LLC, joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, for his final appearance of the year to break down current deployment levels, the key drivers accelerating fiber builds, and the challenges slowing expansion. Drawing on his latest research, Mike highlights emerging opportunities to increase take rates and ARPU, as well as adjacent fiber markets gaining momentum. It’s a clear-eyed view of where fiber stands today and how smart strategy and planning can shape its next phase of growth. With Special Guest: Mike Render, President of RVA, LLC

In this week’s episode, Dr. Christopher Ali – national broadband policy expert and author – joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, for a candid look at what comes after BEAD. Ali cuts through the headlines to uncover the real challenges facing broadband deployment, urging policymakers and providers to move beyond short-term objectives and adopt long-term, purpose-driven strategies. He underscores the often-overlooked importance of middle-mile infrastructure, the unique opportunities electric cooperatives offer, and why fiber, though the preferred technology, must co-exist with wireless and satellite. Ali also addresses the widening gap between broadband availability and usability, calling for sustained affordability programs and stronger digital literacy support. Finally, he gives a sneak peek into his new book – “Where the Wires End: Stories from the Digital Divide” and challenges the industry to redefine what success looks like in the post-BEAD era. With Special Guest: Dr. Christopher Ali, National Broadband Policy Expert and Author

In this episode, Jessica Dine, Policy Analyst at New America’s Open Technology Institute and Wireless Future Project, joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to unpack New America’s recent report, Exploring Paths to a U.S. Digital Skills Framework. With billions being invested in broadband deployment and adoption, the lack of a national standard for defining and measuring digital skills poses a major risk to impact. Jessica outlines two strategic options: adapting proven international or institutional models or developing a data-driven framework tailored to the U.S. landscape. Tune in to explore why this work is urgent and how it could advance digital inclusion and policy effectiveness nationwide. With Special Guest: Jessica Dine, Policy Analyst at New America’s Open Technology Institute and Wireless Future Project

In this week’s episode, we explore Recon Analytics’ compelling insight: fiber broadband isn’t just another access layer – it’s the backbone of the AI economy. Their latest survey shows that fiber users engage with AI far more frequently and intensely than users on other networks, revealing a powerful feedback loop: better connectivity drives deeper AI adoption, and that engagement further justifies fiber investments. For telecom providers, this isn’t just a usage trend – it’s a strategic signal. Listen this week as Roger Entner, Analyst and Founder of Recon Analytics chats with Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association about what this means for CAPEX allocation, customer segmentation, positioning fiber as the “AI experience,” and rethinking the value proposition in an AI-driven future. With Special Guest: Roger Entner, Analyst and Founder of Recon Analytics

This conversation with Brightspeed CEO Michel Combes explores his first six months at the helm of one of the nation’s fastest-growing fiber internet providers. In this discussion with Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, Michel reflects on the company’s transformation journey, progress in expanding high-speed connectivity across its 20-state footprint, and the cultural and operational shifts driving momentum. From accelerating fiber deployment and enhancing customer experience to strengthening community partnerships and fostering an innovative workplace committed to putting the customer first, the session offers a candid look at the challenges, milestones and lessons learned during his initial months of leadership. Attendees will gain insight into Brightspeed’s strategic direction, leadership philosophy and the path forward as the company continues its mission to deliver reliable, next-generation connectivity to more than 5 million locations in the communities it serves. With Special Guest: Michel Combes, CEO, Brightspeed