Episodes

  • The State of Rural Broadband Amid COVID-19
    Jun 4 2020
    The world has changed since the launch of the Smart Rural Communities podcast, with broadband providers focused on helping rural Americans get and stay online during a national pandemic. In this episode, NTCA Digital Communications Manager Seth Johnson speaks with three rural broadband companies about their innovative approach to the challenges of connecting rural America in this new reality.
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    34 mins
  • Fiber to the Farm in Everest, Kan.
    Apr 9 2020
    The need for precision agriculture is growing exponentially, especially as Americans face new challenges. One Smart Rural Community is already equipped with a robust broadband network that supports these operations. NTCA's Carolyn Just sits down with Jason Smith of Rainbow Communications and Jeremy Olson of Pederson Seed & Service to discuss.
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    18 mins
  • Pelican Rapids, Minn. is a Smart Rural Community
    Feb 13 2020

    In the inaugural episode, Laura Withers and Josh Seidemann discuss the genesis of the Smart Rural Communities program and the requirements to earn this prestigious designation. Caitlin Stoecker from NTCA member company Arvig discusses how upgrading broadband for Pelican Rapids, Minn., improved the quality of life and economic flexibility of this Smart Rural Community, allowing residents to enjoy the small town feel of rural America and the opportunities that come with the internet speeds of a major city.


    Listen and subscribe to the Smart Rural Communities Podcast to learn how rural broadband providers are bringing advanced digital infrastructure to small towns and regions, using powerful fiberoptic networks to jumpstart economic growth, ignite educational opportunities, and improve healthcare in some of America’s most remote areas.

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    12 mins