Telecommunications Industry Therapy

Scott Stekr and Michelle Kang

Podcast discussing issues arising from the rapid advancement and deployment of telecommunications infrastructure. The Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Michelle Kang and Scott Stekr.  In Each episode, they will be joined by subject matter experts discussing a wide array of topics which have an effect in the current state of the industry.  Provided by the Telecommunications  Industry Foundation, TIF. https://tifonline.org/ 

  1. 2d ago

    Standards in the Age of AI: The TIA-942 Story

    In this episode, we sit down with Tom McGarry, VP of Standards at the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), to explore the ANSI/TIA-942 standard—the Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard for Data Centers. Tom walks us through what the standard actually covers: the minimum requirements for data center design, construction, and operation across telecommunications, power, physical security, and mechanical infrastructure. He explains the four resilience ratings that classify data centers by their level of redundancy and fault tolerance, and why those ratings matter to the people relying on these facilities. A major focus of the conversation is TIA's certification program. Tom describes how independent verification bodies conduct certification, what motivates data center operators to pursue it, and how the process works in practice. We dig into the downstream effects too: how certification builds trust with end customers and gives regulators confidence in a facility's reliability and security. The discussion then turns to the future. With AI driving unprecedented demand and reshaping data center requirements, Tom shares how the standard has evolved—including the recent revision C, updated to address AI workloads—and what new considerations the standards body is exploring for upcoming versions. Finally, Tom makes a call to action: he outlines the support the ANSI/TIA-942 standards body needs to keep pace with rapid technological change, and how individuals can get involved and contribute to shaping the standards that underpin the world's data infrastructure. To learn more visit tifonline.org

    18 min

  2. May 6

    Why Mount to Tower Interaction Matters More Than Ever

    In this episode, we sit down with Lemmy Recinos , Senior Structural Engineer at KPFF Consulting Engineers to discuss one of the industry’s most important evolving topics — Mount to Tower Interaction (MTI). As one of the primary authors of the PAN titled “The Last Piece of the Structural Analysis Puzzle – Mount to Tower Interactions,” Lenny shares insight into what MTI checks are, why they have become critical with the growth of LTE and 5G deployments, and how ANSI/TIA-222 addresses these requirements. The conversation also explores what is — and is not — included within the scope of MTI evaluations, along with the practical challenges engineers face implementing these analyses in the field. To learn more visit tifonline.org

    23 min

  3. Apr 24

    Microwave Backhaul Site Selection: Expanding Rural Connectivity with Scott Vance & Lynn Burnett

    In this episode, we sit down with Scott Vance, Founder of Vance Engineering, and Lynn Burnett,  Microwave Systems Engineer, to explore their recently co-authored Planning Advisory Notice (PAN): Microwave Backhaul Site Selection. https://tifonline.org/contentresources/microwave-backhaul-site-selection/ This discussion breaks down how microwave radio systems offer a practical, cost-effective solution for wireless backhaul—especially in rural and underserved regions. Scott and Lynn walk through the full picture, from technical design considerations to real-world deployment challenges. Key topics include:  • Strategic site selection and terrain analysis  • Frequency coordination and spectrum considerations  • Navigating regulatory requirements  • Overcoming natural and manmade obstructions  • Expanding connectivity across vast, hard-to-reach areas To learn more visit tifonline.org

    51 min

  4. Feb 8

    Inside NATE: Collaboration, Safety, and What’s Next

    In this episode, we’re joined by Todd Schlekeway , President & CEO of NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association, to reflect on 2025, a  milestone year for the organization as it celebrated 30 years of advancing the telecommunications infrastructure industry. Todd shares highlights from NATE’s 2025 accomplishments, including strategic partnerships with OSHA and the FTC that align around shared goals for safety, compliance, and workforce protection. We also discuss NATE’s growing collaboration with the Telecommunications Industry Foundation (TIF)—including the launch of the “For the Good of the Industry” campaign, resource sharing initiatives, a new collar mount safety video, and the joint release of a white paper on Direct Buried Steel Corrosion & Guy Anchors. The conversation also looks ahead to NATE UNITE, taking place February 23 in Las Vegas, and the exciting expansion of hands-on tower activities, competitions, and new experiences at this year’s event. A must-listen conversation on collaboration, safety, and what’s next for the telecom infrastructure industry. To learn more visit tifonline.org

    21 min

  5. Jan 4

    Working at Heights with James Ruedlinger

    James Ruedlinger VP of Engineering at Fullwave Tower & Broadcast joins us for an in-depth conversation on the realities of working in wireless infrastructure and broadcast construction. James shares firsthand experience on the full scope of broadcast construction—from pre-site planning and safety preparation to managing known challenges on-site and handling critical construction information in real time. We also dive into the physical and mental demands of tower work, the biggest misconceptions about the industry, and what stakeholders can do to better support construction crews and tower technicians. To learn more visit tifonline.org

    33 min

  6. 12/17/2025

    2025 Year In Review - Insights and Takeaways

    As Michelle Kang and Scott Stekr reflect on the highlights of 2025 in their lives and the telecommunications industry, they also share insights into what to anticipate in 2026 for both the industry and our podcast, Telecommunications Industry Therapy. Stay tuned for exciting developments ahead! To learn more visit tifonline.org

    21 min

  7. 12/03/2025

    Wireless Infrastructure Construction – Structural Steel Modifications

    In this episode, we sit down with Dylan Pontes, Director of Operations & Safety Trainer at JHC Construction, to explore the critical role of structural steel in wireless infrastructure. Dylan shares insights on the technical challenges, safety demands, and craftsmanship behind building the backbone of connectivity — along with a look at what truly defines a tower technician’s work. To learn more visit tifonline.org

    20 min

  8. 11/24/2025

    Leading the Way: Inside the Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum

    In this episode, Victoria Weidenthaler, President of the Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF), gives us an inside look at how the organization supports, uplifts, and advocates for women in telecommunications. From mentorship to leadership development, Victoria explains how WWLF is creating pathways for growth and driving positive change across the wireless industry. To learn more visit tifonline.org

    19 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Podcast discussing issues arising from the rapid advancement and deployment of telecommunications infrastructure. The Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Michelle Kang and Scott Stekr.  In Each episode, they will be joined by subject matter experts discussing a wide array of topics which have an effect in the current state of the industry.  Provided by the Telecommunications  Industry Foundation, TIF. https://tifonline.org/ 

Information

  • Creator
    Scott Stekr and Michelle Kang
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    54
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Telecommunications Industry Therapy
  • Show Website
    Telecommunications Industry Therapy