Light Reading Podcasts

Join Mike Dano, lead industry analyst at Ookla and former mobile expert, as he dives into the fascinating world of mobile networks and spectrum dynamics. He discusses the impact of mid-band spectrum on U.S. infrastructure compared to Canada, and why the EchoStar-SpaceX deal is a game changer. Mike also considers Starlink's potential entry into mobile services and the implications for terrestrial strategies. Additionally, he analyzes the intense bidding between Netflix and Paramount for Warner Bros. assets and its potential effects on the film industry.

Nokia's Dirk Verhaegen discusses how operators can transform Wi-Fi from a cost center to a revenue driver with cloud-managed networks and AI insights. This episode is sponsored by Nokia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Wright, Policy Director at Spectrum for the Future, and Jason Wallin, Senior Principal Architect at John Deere, dive into the current state of CBRS and its importance for private networks. They discuss whether CBRS is under threat from spectrum repurposing amid FCC and NTIA efforts. The implications of high-power versus low-power CBRS use are explored, highlighting the risks and benefits of coexistence. With uncertainty stalling investments, they outline the potential for future clarifications from the FCC.

Octavian Tanasi, Chief Product Officer at Hitachi Vantara, shares his insights on how AI is revolutionizing enterprise infrastructure. He explains the shift from traditional applications to AI workloads, highlighting the unique challenges enterprises face, such as skills shortages and complexity. Octavian emphasizes the importance of unifying diverse data types and introduces VSP360, a unified control plane for better governance. He also discusses the integration of sustainability in design and the vision for autonomous data systems. Tune in for a look at the future of high-end block storage!

This week: Jess Auer (Institute for Local Self-Reliance) and David Kulp (Ashfield, Massachusetts) on ILSR's new report exploring how 19 Western Massachusetts towns collaborated to connect their communities to municipal broadband. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liam Donnelly, Chief Business Officer at Digicel, dives into the company's recovery strategies following Hurricane Melissa's devastation. He discusses the immediate impacts on network services and innovative short-term connectivity solutions like bus-based cell sites. Liam highlights the challenges of rural digital divides and the need for government initiatives to bridge these gaps. With insights on the evolving customer demands and plans for fiber expansion, he paints a picture of a resilient path forward for Caribbean connectivity.

Geert Heyninck, VP and General Manager of Broadband Networks at Nokia, brings his expertise in PON technologies to discuss the exciting advancements of 25G and 50G PON. He delves into how these technologies adapt to changing traffic patterns, revealing their role in enhancing peak performance for both residential and enterprise use. Geert also highlights the shift from point-to-point systems, the real-world trials boosting operator deployments, and the innovative security measures addressing quantum threats. His insights on improving uptime and the future of adoption are particularly compelling.

This week: Dave Seliger (NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development) and Dr. Brandy McNeil (New York Public Library) discuss New York's Neighborhood Tech Help program and the role it plays in solving the digital divide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dell'Oro Group's Jeff Heynen joins the first 'Signal Strength' podcast to discuss the big takeaways from TechExpo 2025, Verizon's new fiber partnership, CommScope's 'RemainCo' and a check into cable earnings season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paolo Balboa, NYC's Chief Digital Equity Officer with a rich background in public libraries and digital inclusion, dives into the significant barriers to broadband in the city. He discusses affordability, perceptions of need, and lack of info as key challenges. Balboa highlights the impact of the Affordable Connectivity Program's end and summarizes initiatives in the Digital Equity Roadmap. He shares details about Liberty Link and Big Apple Connect for underserved communities, and emphasizes the importance of trust in public broadband initiatives.