Episode 457: State-Level Broadband Advocacy with Steve Schwerbel of WISPA

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded at WISPAmerica 2025 in Oklahoma City, host Brad Hine sits down with Steve Schwerbel, Director of State Advocacy at WISPA, to explore the landscape of broadband policy across all 50 states. Steve shares thoughts on how state-level legislation, BEAD funding, and advocacy strategies are shaping the broadband deployment—particularly for fixed wireless providers. They discuss WISPA's tech-neutral approach, the role of storytelling in advocacy, and real-world examples of how fixed wireless is filling the gaps where fiber can't reach. From disaster recovery in North Carolina to workforce development on California farms, Steve brings powerful narratives that highlight the innovation and resilience of WISPA members. The episode also shines a light on tax policy, labor certification, and access rights as key legislative priorities, underscoring the need for broadband solutions that are fast, flexible, and community-driven.