All Episodes

July 22, 2025 32 mins

In this episode of Closing the Digital Divide, I chat with David Zumwalt, CEO and President of the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association (WISPA), to explore the evolving role of wireless technologies in bridging the broadband gap. Zumwalt discusses the impact of the NTIA’s updated BEAD guidance, the strengths of fixed wireless in reaching underserved communities, and how WISPs are leveraging innovation, local knowledge, and private investment to accelerate deployment. The conversation highlights key policy considerations, spectrum access, and the critical need for technology-neutral solutions to ensure broadband equity across America.

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - Closing the Digital Divide
  • (00:00:58) - WISPA President David Zumwalt on Closing the Digital
  • (00:02:04) - In the Elevator With WISPA's President
  • (00:03:56) - NTIA's updated Broadband Expansion Guidance
  • (00:06:39) - Wi-Fi and fiber: Best for broadband?
  • (00:09:08) - WISPA on Wireless Coverage in Bead Implementation Plans
  • (00:12:22) - State Broadband Offices
  • (00:14:26) - President Trump on closing the digital divide
  • (00:16:11) - Common Criticism of Fixed Wireless
  • (00:20:24) - Does CBRS make it more eligible for priority broadband?
  • (00:25:30) - WSJD Live: Challenges facing wireless and wired broadband operators
  • (00:29:47) - Will Wireless Close the Digital Divide?
  • (00:30:48) - WISPA's New Sponsor and How to Get Involved
Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang

Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang

Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.

Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.