Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles

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Let's Get Digital is your gateway to the innovators and ideas transforming the digital infrastructure industry. From wireless telecom to fiber networks and data centers, this podcast explores all things digital infrastructure—diving into the trends, technologies, and people shaping the future of connectivity. Hosted by Broadstaff CEO Carrie Charles, each episode features candid conversations with top industry leaders, uncovering the intersection of technology, talent, and transformation. Discover the innovations, leadership strategies, and company cultures driving success in this rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you’re a business leader, a professional aiming to grow, or simply passionate about digital innovation, Let's Get Digital is your go-to resource for staying ahead in this dynamic industry. Tune in and let’s get digital. -- Previously known as 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles, the ‘Let’s Get Digital’ podcast is sponsored by Broadstaff in partnership with RCR Wireless News. Broadstaff is a full-service national staffing firm specializing in all areas of digital infrastructure. Since 1982, RCR Wireless News has been the leading media source for unparalleled news coverage, in-depth insights, and comprehensive analysis of the wireless and mobile technology industry.

  1. From Fiber Construction to Data Center Expansion: Vincent Cioci on How Luck Grove Is Building What’s Next

    2D AGO

    From Fiber Construction to Data Center Expansion: Vincent Cioci on How Luck Grove Is Building What’s Next

    In this episode, Vincent Cioci, CEO of Luck Grove, shares how the company is scaling from a small fiber engineering firm into a rapidly growing infrastructure partner supporting fiber expansion, MDU deployments, and hyperscale data center growth. Drawing from his own journey—from field surveyor to CEO—Vincent offers a grounded and energetic perspective on what it takes to build infrastructure, teams, and culture in one of the fastest-growing sectors in digital infrastructure. Luck Grove’s growth has been driven by a strong focus on execution, responsiveness, and building internal capabilities. Vincent explains how the company evolved from a three-person operation into a fully integrated engineering and construction organization by intentionally building scalable systems, bringing operations in-house, and investing heavily in workforce development. A major theme throughout the conversation is the next phase of fiber expansion. Vincent describes the industry as entering the “second half” of the buildout—moving beyond rapid expansion into more strategic deployments focused on filling coverage gaps, activating underserved MDUs, and maximizing existing infrastructure investments. At the same time, Luck Grove is expanding into hyperscale data center environments, where specialized fiber and structured cabling expertise are becoming increasingly critical. The discussion also explores one of the industry’s biggest challenges: workforce shortages. Vincent highlights the urgent need for skilled engineers, project managers, technicians, and construction crews—and explains how Luck Grove responded by building an internal engineering training program capable of developing telecom professionals from scratch in just weeks. Beyond infrastructure, Vincent emphasizes the importance of company culture, transparency, and responsiveness. He shares how Luck Grove prioritizes communication, accountability, and employee engagement to create an environment where people want to grow and stay long-term. Looking ahead, Vincent sees continued opportunity at the intersection of fiber, data centers, and electrical infrastructure, as increasing demand for connectivity and AI drives even greater pressure on power systems and digital infrastructure nationwide. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected. Visit Broadstaff at broadstaffglobal.comFollow Broadstaff on InstagramFollow Broadstaff on LinkedInConnect with Carrie Charles on LinkedInFollow Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles on LinkedInWatch full episodes of Let's Get Digital on YouTube

    20 min
  2. Inside DC BLOX: Jeff Uphues on the Strategy Reshaping Digital Infrastructure in the Southeast

    MAY 13

    Inside DC BLOX: Jeff Uphues on the Strategy Reshaping Digital Infrastructure in the Southeast

    In this episode, Jeff Uphues, CEO of DC BLOX, shares how the company is reshaping digital infrastructure in the Southeast through a focused, vertically integrated strategy built on data centers, fiber networks, and cable landing stations. With more than 35 years in the communications industry, Jeff offers a candid look at scaling DC BLOX from a $5 million startup into a multi-billion-dollar platform serving hyperscalers and enterprise customers.  DC BLOX’s approach is rooted in deep regional focus, targeting underserved, high-growth markets and building strong local relationships while connecting globally. Jeff explains how the company evolved from smaller edge deployments into large hyperscale campuses by listening closely to customer needs and expanding capabilities over time. A key theme is the impact of AI, which is driving unprecedented demand and fundamentally changing data center design. From liquid cooling to flexible power configurations, today’s infrastructure must support a wide range of high-density workloads. This shift has also intensified one of the industry’s biggest challenges: power. Jeff highlights the growing complexity of securing energy, including massive upfront investments and navigating utility constraints. Beyond infrastructure, Jeff emphasizes culture, built on transparency, trust, teamwork, and tenacity, as a core driver of success. He also underscores the importance of community engagement, helping local stakeholders understand the economic and social value data centers bring. Looking ahead, Jeff sees continued growth with no clear slowdown, as hyperscalers, AI companies, and enterprises drive the next wave of digital infrastructure expansion. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected. Visit Broadstaff at broadstaffglobal.comFollow Broadstaff on InstagramFollow Broadstaff on LinkedInConnect with Carrie Charles on LinkedInFollow Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles on LinkedInWatch full episodes of Let's Get Digital on YouTube

    30 min
  3. From TIWA to CDIA: Rich Berliner on the Future of “Connected” Digital Infrastructure

    MAY 5

    From TIWA to CDIA: Rich Berliner on the Future of “Connected” Digital Infrastructure

    In this episode, Rich Berliner, Founder of the Connected Digital Infrastructure Association (CDIA), shares a forward-looking perspective on how the industry is evolving from siloed technologies into a fully integrated, “connected” digital infrastructure ecosystem. With more than 40 years in telecom and construction, Rich brings a unique lens on how the convergence of wireless, fiber, real estate, and AI is reshaping the future of connectivity. CDIA was born from the evolution of the in-building wireless space into something much broader. Rich explains how enterprise customers—especially in real estate—no longer want fragmented solutions like DAS alone, but instead demand fully integrated offerings that combine connectivity, cybersecurity, software, and infrastructure into a single, cohesive strategy. This shift is driving greater collaboration across the industry and redefining how solutions are delivered. A key theme is the growing importance of “connected” infrastructure, where fiber, wireless, public safety systems, and building technologies must all work together seamlessly. Rich highlights how enterprise decision-making now involves multiple stakeholders—from IT to finance to operations—making it critical for providers to approach customers with a needs-based, consultative mindset rather than a product-first pitch. The conversation also explores a major technological shift: the move from CPU-based systems to GPU-driven computing, led by companies like NVIDIA. Rich explains how this transition is enabling distributed data centers and what he calls the “new edge”—a model where compute is deployed across towers, rooftops, and localized environments instead of centralized mega facilities. Looking ahead, Rich sees CDIA playing a vital role as an educational and networking hub—bringing together telecom, real estate, and technology leaders to better understand and navigate this rapidly changing landscape. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected. Visit Broadstaff at broadstaffglobal.comFollow Broadstaff on InstagramFollow Broadstaff on LinkedInConnect with Carrie Charles on LinkedInFollow Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles on LinkedInWatch full episodes of Let's Get Digital on YouTube

    24 min
  4. From Policy to Connect X: Patrick Halley on What’s Next for Wireless Infrastructure

    APR 22

    From Policy to Connect X: Patrick Halley on What’s Next for Wireless Infrastructure

    In this episode, Patrick Halley, President and CEO of the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA), shares a comprehensive view of the evolving wireless infrastructure landscape—highlighting the critical intersection of policy, investment, and emerging technologies like AI that are shaping the future of connectivity. Drawing from his leadership at WIA, Patrick offers a front-row perspective on the companies building, owning, and operating the networks that power our increasingly digital world. Today, WIA represents the full wireless ecosystem—from tower companies and carriers to OEMs and service providers—advocating for policies, education, and industry collaboration that enable continued growth. Patrick explains how the organization plays a central role in advancing infrastructure deployment through federal and state advocacy, workforce training programs, and flagship events like ConnectX. Patrick breaks down one of the most important realities in the industry: despite being in a cyclical phase, wireless infrastructure investment remains strong, with $65 billion in annual spending and continued growth in tower deployments. He emphasizes that relentless demand for data—driven increasingly by mobile-first behaviors—continues to fuel both new builds and co-location strategies across the network. A major theme throughout the conversation is the rise of AI and its growing impact on wireless networks. Patrick highlights that AI already accounts for a meaningful share of network traffic, a number expected to grow rapidly as consumers and enterprises rely more heavily on AI-powered applications. From simple mobile queries to complex AI agents handling everyday tasks, this shift is fundamentally increasing demand for faster, more robust wireless infrastructure. The discussion also explores the policy landscape, where spectrum availability and permitting reform remain top priorities. Patrick outlines ongoing efforts to free up additional spectrum, streamline deployment through predictable and transparent permitting processes, and ensure the regulatory environment supports continued innovation and investment. Looking ahead, Patrick remains bullish on the industry’s long-term outlook. While acknowledging recent workforce challenges and layoffs tied to the tail end of the 5G build cycle, he explains how future growth—driven by 6G development, AI expansion, and increasing wireless adoption—will create new opportunities across the ecosystem. He also highlights the growing demand for roles in adjacent areas like fiber and data center infrastructure. Finally, Patrick shares how WIA is addressing workforce development through its Telecommunications Education Center and registered apprenticeship programs—equipping the next generation with the skills needed across wireless, fiber, and emerging technologies. From AI-driven demand to spectrum policy and workforce transformation, this episode offers a timely and insightful look at what’s next for wireless infrastructure—and why the foundation being built today will define the connected world of tomorrow. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected. Visit Broadstaff at broadstaffglobal.comFollow Broadstaff on InstagramFollow Broadstaff on LinkedInConnect with Carrie Charles on LinkedInFollow Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles on LinkedInWatch full episodes of Let's Get Digital on YouTube

    22 min
  5. How Compu Dynamics Is Changing Data Center Delivery: A Conversation with Steve Altizer

    APR 15

    How Compu Dynamics Is Changing Data Center Delivery: A Conversation with Steve Altizer

    In this episode, Steve Altizer, Founder and CEO of Compu Dynamics, shares how he has built a uniquely integrated data center services company—spanning design, construction, electrical, mechanical, and long-term maintenance—while continuously evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing digital infrastructure landscape. From his early days in construction to discovering data centers during the dot-com era, Steve offers a candid and entrepreneurial perspective on building a business through cycles of disruption and growth. Today, Compu Dynamics operates as a full lifecycle partner in the data center ecosystem, delivering everything from initial design concepts to ongoing service and maintenance. Steve explains how the company grew by strategically expanding capabilities—adding mechanical, electrical, and low-voltage services—and positioning itself as a trusted, long-term partner rather than a one-time builder. Steve breaks down one of the most important shifts in the industry: the move toward modular data center construction. By acquiring a manufacturing facility and investing in factory-built infrastructure, Compu Dynamics is rethinking how data centers are delivered—focusing on speed, scalability, and efficiency. He explains why traditional “stick-built” approaches can no longer keep up with AI-driven demand, and how modularizing even the white space—the core data hall—unlocks faster deployment and greater customization. The conversation explores the challenges of scaling this new model, from manufacturing capacity to supply chain constraints. Steve highlights critical bottlenecks in components like switchgear and UPS systems, and explains how the industry is adapting—sometimes even redesigning data centers to bypass traditional limitations in order to accelerate deployment. Beyond infrastructure, Steve emphasizes the importance of long-term service relationships. By staying engaged with customers well after construction is complete, Compu Dynamics designs with maintainability in mind—ensuring that facilities can operate efficiently for years to come. He also addresses one of the industry’s biggest concerns: labor shortages. Steve shares how Compu Dynamics is investing in workforce development—partnering with community colleges and local training programs to build the next generation of skilled tradespeople, while also recognizing that modular construction may help reduce reliance on on-site labor over time. Looking ahead, Steve sees a future where AI-driven data centers are built more like factories than traditional buildings—highly standardized, modular, and optimized for performance at scale. His vision is not just to keep up with that transformation, but to help lead it through innovation, partnerships, and a relentless focus on execution. From modular innovation to workforce development, this episode is a masterclass in rethinking how data centers are designed, built, and delivered in the age of AI. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected. Visit Broadstaff at broadstaffglobal.comFollow Broadstaff on InstagramFollow Broadstaff on LinkedInConnect with Carrie Charles on LinkedInFollow Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles on LinkedInWatch full episodes of Let's Get Digital on YouTube

    24 min
  6. Will AI Replace the Org Chart? Suman Kanuganti on the Rise of Personal AI

    APR 8

    Will AI Replace the Org Chart? Suman Kanuganti on the Rise of Personal AI

    In this episode, Suman Kanuganti, CEO of Personal AI, shares how he is redefining artificial intelligence by shifting the focus from generalized models to deeply personalized, human-centered intelligence. From founding Aira—an AI platform supporting the blind and low-vision community—to building Personal AI, Suman offers a unique perspective on creating technology that reflects individual memory, identity, and lived experience. Today, Suman is leading Personal AI with a bold vision: enabling every individual to own and build their own AI—turning personal knowledge, communication, and relationships into a new form of digital asset. He explains how the company is working with telecommunications providers to deliver private, regulated, and highly secure AI experiences—positioning telcos as a critical gateway for the next evolution of the internet. Suman breaks down the shift from traditional internet usage—based on search and consumption—to a new paradigm driven by voice, creation, and interaction. With billions of daily phone calls far exceeding search queries, he highlights how voice networks will play a central role in unlocking AI-powered experiences that are more natural, conversational, and human. The conversation explores the limitations of current AI models, particularly around personalization. Suman explains why large language models struggle to scale true personalization and introduces a new approach centered on individual memory, identity, and small language models—designed to deliver more accurate, efficient, and deeply personal outcomes. He also dives into the concept of the “AI grid,” where intelligence moves from centralized data centers to distributed environments closer to users. This shift, he explains, is essential for scalability, efficiency, and accessibility—bringing AI to more people, including those without traditional internet access, through simple voice-based interactions. Beyond technology, Suman addresses the real-world implications of AI adoption—from workforce disruption to the need for continuous upskilling. He emphasizes that success in the AI era will be defined by speed, quality, and a growth mindset—encouraging individuals and organizations to embrace change and adapt quickly. He also tackles critical topics like privacy, governance, and trust, arguing that the future of AI must be built on secure, regulated frameworks that protect individual data and ensure that value creation benefits users—not just large platforms. Looking ahead, Suman envisions a world where AI is more natural, trustworthy, and embedded in everyday life—from conversational interfaces to robotics and autonomous systems. At the core of that future is a simple but powerful idea: every person should have their own AI, capturing their knowledge and experiences as a lifelong, evolving asset. From personal intelligence to global impact, this episode is a masterclass in rethinking AI—not as a tool, but as an extension of human identity, creativity, and economic potential. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected. Visit Broadstaff at broadstaffglobal.comFollow Broadstaff on InstagramFollow Broadstaff on LinkedInConnect with Carrie Charles on LinkedInFollow Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles on LinkedInWatch full episodes of Let's Get Digital on YouTube

    26 min
  7. A Billion-Dollar Bet on Wireless: Bernard Borghei on Building the Next Infrastructure Platform

    MAR 25

    A Billion-Dollar Bet on Wireless: Bernard Borghei on Building the Next Infrastructure Platform

    In this episode, Bernard Borghei, Founder and CEO of Connected Infra Group, shares how he is building the next generation of wireless infrastructure platforms—drawing on more than three decades of experience across telecom, towers, and global network development. From his early days in analog cellular to helping scale industry leaders like Global Tower Partners and Vertical Bridge, Bernard offers a deeply personal and practical perspective on what it takes to build enduring infrastructure businesses. Today, Bernard is leading Connected Infra Group with a bold vision backed by a $1 billion capital commitment, focused initially on tower acquisitions and build-to-suit opportunities. He explains how the company is positioning itself as a long-term platform—stabilizing in towers while thoughtfully evaluating adjacencies like fiber, edge data centers, and power infrastructure to capture the next wave of digital demand. Bernard breaks down the evolution of the tower industry—from entrepreneurial, high-conviction dealmaking to a more competitive, capital-intensive landscape with fewer large portfolio opportunities. Despite this maturity, he emphasizes that wireless infrastructure remains mission-critical, with continued densification, data consumption growth, and carrier investment reinforcing its long-term relevance. The conversation explores what comes next: the convergence of towers, edge computing, data centers, and even satellite networks. Bernard highlights how AI and future 6G standards will further stress networks—unlocking new opportunities across the RAN and edge, and blurring the lines between infrastructure asset classes as platforms evolve into fully integrated ecosystems. Beyond infrastructure, Bernard delivers a powerful leadership philosophy rooted in culture. He explains why culture and leadership are inseparable, and how building high-performing organizations requires humility, transparency, and hands-on engagement. From hiring for cultural fit to maintaining alignment during rapid growth and leadership transitions, he shares hard-earned lessons on preserving a company’s “soul” as it scales. He also addresses current industry dynamics, including widespread layoffs, shifting capital priorities, and the impact of outsourcing, spectrum auctions, and AI. Rather than signaling decline, Bernard views these changes as strategic recalibration—positioning carriers and the broader ecosystem for the next investment cycle. Looking ahead, Bernard’s vision for Connected Infra Group is not tied to a fixed exit—but to building a durable, multi-decade platform that can adapt, grow, and lead through industry transformation. His goal: to create a company strong enough to outlast its founders and continue shaping the future of connectivity. From billion-dollar bets to leadership at scale, this episode is a masterclass in conviction, culture, and building infrastructure platforms that power the digital economy. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected. Visit Broadstaff at broadstaffglobal.comFollow Broadstaff on InstagramFollow Broadstaff on LinkedInConnect with Carrie Charles on LinkedInFollow Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles on LinkedInWatch full episodes of Let's Get Digital on YouTube

    40 min
  8. Scaling the Digital Backbone: How DataBank Is Building for What’s Next with Raul Martynek

    FEB 25

    Scaling the Digital Backbone: How DataBank Is Building for What’s Next with Raul Martynek

    In this episode, Raul Martynek, CEO of DataBank, shares how he has helped transform a six–data center platform into one of the largest and most geographically diverse data center operators in the United States. With three decades in digital infrastructure—spanning telecom, fiber, cloud, and now data centers—Raul offers a front-row perspective on how the industry has evolved from modest megawatt deployments to hyperscale campuses measured in gigawatts. Today, DataBank operates the broadest geographic footprint of data centers in the U.S., serving more than 2,500 customers across enterprise, hyperscale, and emerging AI segments. Raul explains how the company scaled from a $50 million business to a billion-dollar-plus platform by prioritizing geography, disciplined capital access, and long-term infrastructure planning—often securing land and power years in advance to meet future demand. Raul breaks down the dramatic shift in data center scale: enterprise deals that once averaged 1–2 megawatts now reach 20–30 megawatts, while hyperscale and AI deployments can range from 250 megawatts to over a gigawatt. He addresses the durability of AI-driven demand, separating hype from fundamentals, and explains why long-term digital consumption—not short-term euphoria—underpins sustained infrastructure growth. The conversation also tackles the real constraints shaping the next decade: access to capital, power availability, supply chain pressures, rising construction costs, and increasing community opposition. Raul outlines how DataBank is navigating these bottlenecks through patient capital partnerships, multi-year power strategies, and deeper engagement with local stakeholders. Beyond infrastructure, Raul emphasizes culture as a competitive advantage. From launching DataBank University to building structured career paths in operations and sales, he details how investing in people has enabled 44 consecutive quarters of positive net bookings. He shares the principles behind “The DataBank Way,” including leadership behaviors like extreme ownership and collaborative problem-solving—critical for scaling a decentralized workforce across 60+ markets. Looking ahead, Raul predicts continued U.S. leadership in data center development, with markets like Texas positioned to surge due to streamlined grid access and a pro-growth mindset. But he cautions that the industry’s greatest risk isn’t lack of demand—it’s overbuilding. As a fundamentally supply-and-demand real estate business, disciplined development decisions will separate resilient operators from the rest. From AI acceleration to grid constraints, talent shortages to trillion-dollar capital flows, this episode is a masterclass in scaling the digital backbone of the modern economy—grounded in long-term thinking, operational discipline, and leadership at scale. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected. Visit Broadstaff at broadstaffglobal.comFollow Broadstaff on InstagramFollow Broadstaff on LinkedInConnect with Carrie Charles on LinkedInFollow Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles on LinkedInWatch full episodes of Let's Get Digital on YouTube

    32 min
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4.4
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Let's Get Digital is your gateway to the innovators and ideas transforming the digital infrastructure industry. From wireless telecom to fiber networks and data centers, this podcast explores all things digital infrastructure—diving into the trends, technologies, and people shaping the future of connectivity. Hosted by Broadstaff CEO Carrie Charles, each episode features candid conversations with top industry leaders, uncovering the intersection of technology, talent, and transformation. Discover the innovations, leadership strategies, and company cultures driving success in this rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you’re a business leader, a professional aiming to grow, or simply passionate about digital innovation, Let's Get Digital is your go-to resource for staying ahead in this dynamic industry. Tune in and let’s get digital. -- Previously known as 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles, the ‘Let’s Get Digital’ podcast is sponsored by Broadstaff in partnership with RCR Wireless News. Broadstaff is a full-service national staffing firm specializing in all areas of digital infrastructure. Since 1982, RCR Wireless News has been the leading media source for unparalleled news coverage, in-depth insights, and comprehensive analysis of the wireless and mobile technology industry.

Information

  • Creator
    Broadstaff
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    177
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Broadstaff LLC | All Rights Reserved | Broadstaffglobal.com
  • Show Website
    Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles

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