For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker, VP of Broadband at CBM, sits down with Mike Daffron from EnerSys to unpack the growing world of data centers—how they consume massive amounts of energy, the evolving technology behind backup power, and what it means for the grid. Daffron, a veteran in the energy storage industry, shares firsthand insight into what’s happening inside the modern data center—from soaring power loads to the shift toward safer, longer-lasting battery systems. The conversation ranges from the macro scale of national energy infrastructure down to the chemistry of pure lead batteries and their role in keeping critical systems online. Along the way, Daffron also shares stories about his unique sales approach, the evolution of lithium technology, and the mentors who helped shape his career. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this follow-up episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, continues his inspiring conversation with Dan Levac of Preformed Line Products (PLP). Building on part one, this discussion dives deeper into communication across generations, the importance of compassion and leadership in the workplace, and Dan’s personal story of survival and purpose after a life-threatening medical event. Listeners will hear Dan reflect on his career journey, his philosophy on mentoring and humility, and how companies like PLP maintain a strong family-driven culture that fuels innovation and longevity. His insights on perspective, connection, and passion for the industry remind us why relationships—and stories—matter as much as the products we sell. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this milestone episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker welcomes back Dan Levac of PLP for a special conversation celebrating the podcast’s two-part 50th episode and two-year anniversary. Dan was the very first guest when the show launched, and now he returns to reflect on what’s changed since that initial discussion—particularly around BEAD funding, infrastructure challenges, and the evolving broadband landscape. The conversation dives deep into the state of broadband initiatives, the realities of fiber deployment, and the role of alternative technologies. Dan emphasizes the long-term value of fiber as core infrastructure, its impact on everything from education to agriculture, and why investment decisions today will shape opportunities for generations to come. The episode also covers manufacturing challenges, BABA compliance, workforce development, and how organizations like PCCA and PLP are helping prepare the next generation of technicians, splicers, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re in telecom, government, or just passionate about connectivity, this episode sheds light on the opportunities and challenges facing the broadband industry today—and why the work being done now matters for every community. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power of the Network, CBM’s Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, sits in the hot seat as Brett Cooper flips the script and interviews him. Tim opens up about his career journey, the lessons he’s learned in sales and leadership, and why building trust and relationships is more important than ever in today’s business environment. The conversation covers everything from the importance of integrity in sales to the challenges of balancing manufacturer expectations, distributor partnerships, and customer needs. Tim also shares personal insights about leadership, communication, and the role of mentorship in his professional growth. To round things out, he talks about his passion for the outdoors and his side business, Iowa Boys Fishing, which adds a personal dimension to his professional story. Listeners will gain an inside look at the man behind the mic and how his story reflects CBM’s commitment to expertise, collaboration, and growth. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠ In this special episode of Power of the Network, the script is flipped. Instead of hosting, Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, becomes the guest as Brett Cooper takes over the interviewer’s chair. This candid conversation dives into Tim’s 17-year journey at CBM, his transition into broadband leadership, and his vision for breaking down silos within the company to create a stronger “One CBM” culture. Tim opens up about his career path—from construction work and fiber splicing to equipment sales and eventually leading CBM’s broadband initiatives. He shares how his technical background and real-world experience foster trust with customers and empower teammates. The discussion also explores the unique ESOP ownership culture at CBM, why teamwork drives success, and how personal values like family and mentorship shape Tim’s leadership style. Listeners will gain an inside look at the man behind the mic and how his story reflects CBM’s commitment to expertise, collaboration, and growth. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠ In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, sits down with Max Bohon, National Sales Manager for Preformed Line Products (PLP) on the utility side. CBM and PLP share over 60 years of partnership, and this conversation dives into Max’s career journey, PLP’s company culture, industry changes, and the keys to professional growth in a fast-evolving utility and broadband market. Max shares how his engineering background unexpectedly led him into sales, his approach to continuous learning, and the importance of adaptability in an industry where both power and communications technology are rapidly changing. They discuss the challenges of selling new products to crews resistant to change, PLP’s commitment to domestic manufacturing and product quality, and the traits that help young professionals succeed in this field. The conversation also touches on sports, mentorship, and the value of company culture that fosters long-term employee retention.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with HR expert and longtime CBM partner, Nancye Combs. With nearly 40 years of experience, Nancye brings insight, clarity, and some hard-earned wisdom to one of the most complex areas of business: human resources. From hiring the right people to managing crisis situations and building organizational bench strength, Nancye walks listeners through what it means to run a people-first business that also protects the bottom line. Listeners will gain practical strategies for smarter hiring, tips on navigating the post-COVID workplace, and a better understanding of how HR policies can protect both employees and leadership. Whether you're in HR or executive leadership, or just trying to grow your influence at work, this episode is packed with candid advice and memorable insights. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

In this episode of Power of the Network, CBM’s Tim Locker sits down with Bob Kalivoda, VP of Sales for North America at nVent. Bob brings decades of experience in sales leadership and coaching, drawing from both his professional career and time as a youth football coach. The conversation dives into Bob’s journey from frontline sales to global leadership, his approach to relationship building, and how nVent and Hoffman are evolving to meet the demands of automation, energy storage, and sustainability. Listeners will get insights into how nVent is helping customers solve real-world challenges, especially in automation and thermal management, and why mentorship, adaptability, and integrity remain key pillars of long-term success in sales.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power the Network, host Marla Sparks sits down with Dirk Schwartzkopf, Director of Plant Operations at GRM Networks. With nearly three decades of experience in telecommunications, Dirk offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how GRM has navigated everything from supply chain chaos during the COVID-19 pandemic to rural broadband expansion and BEAD funding. He shares stories from his career journey—starting as a field tech, shaped by his Marine Corps background—and reflects on the importance of relationships, mentorship, and adaptability in an evolving industry. The episode is rich with insights into GRM's forward-thinking strategies, including fiber builds across Missouri and Iowa, vendor relationship management, and workforce development. If you're in telecom or just curious about what it takes to keep rural America connected, this conversation delivers both technical insights and heartfelt leadership advice. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠ In this episode of Power of the Network, guest host Marla Sparks sits down with Jake Jonnes, Executive VP of Operations at Polywater. What begins as a fun origin story, from wetsuit lubricant mishaps to a global cable lubricant empire, evolves into a deep dive into Polywater’s innovation culture, ESOP ownership model, and field-driven product development strategy. Jake shares how a small family-run company in a Stillwater, MN basement became a trusted name in the utility and telecommunications sectors. From launching their new cable jacket repair solution to expanding global operations, Jake opens up about what drives Polywater’s success and why reps and customers alike keep coming back. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠ In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Dave Lucas, Regional VP at Siemens Energy, to explore the current landscape of power generation and transmission. From global tariffs and sales cycles to the explosive growth of data centers and the impact of AI, this conversation dives deep into the real-world challenges and innovations shaping the utility sector. Dave shares insights into Siemens Energy’s strategy for navigating supply chain uncertainty, adapting to evolving energy demands, and fostering long-term relationships with utilities and reps. He also discusses leadership, the importance of transparency, and how building strong relationships can outlast market cycles. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at ⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠ In this special episode of Power of the Network, Tim Locker sits down with Marla Sparks, President of CBM, to celebrate the company’s 65th anniversary and reflect on its journey, values, and vision. Marla shares her story of entering the industry, her rise through the ranks, and the guiding principles that have sustained CBM across six decades. She also talks candidly about leadership, industry changes, and what it means to be an employee-owned company in a rapidly evolving market. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes CBM unique, how its employee-ownership model drives long-term relationships, and how strong leadership and culture empower team members to thrive. It's a thoughtful, personal conversation about longevity, legacy, and staying focused in times of change. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this special anniversary episode, host Tim Locker welcomes Duff Greenwood, former President and current Chairman of the Board of CBM, to reflect on the company’s 65-year legacy. Duff shares stories from his early days with CBM, the evolution of its ESOP culture, and the values that continue to drive success across decades. Listeners will get an inside look at how CBM’s employee-ownership model transformed not just operations, but its leadership philosophy, hiring practices, and long-term vision. From the humble beginnings of a founder with a card table to a multi-market rep firm, Duff offers personal insights, anecdotes, and lessons learned along the way. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this insightful and heartwarming episode of "Power of the Network," host Tim Locker welcomes his long-time friend and mentor, Michael Kean, to discuss Michael's inspiring career in sales, personal values, and the importance of relationships in business. Michael reflects on his decades of experience, sharing candid stories from his early life and professional journey, including his tenure at Power and Telephone, and his post-retirement contributions to charity and community. Michael emphasizes the significance of honesty, consistency, and adaptability in sales, underscoring that genuine relationships and trust remain essential despite changing business environments. The conversation also touches on personal endeavors, such as Michael's commitment to woodworking for the Pink Tractor Foundation, and managing the Telephone Museum at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker welcomes Paul Dickinson PhD, Director of Business Development at Dura-Line, to explore the latest advancements and applications in fiber optic technology, particularly fiber optic sensing. Paul, with his extensive 35-year background in fiber optics, discusses the evolution of fiber technology from its early technical issues to its present ubiquity in broadband access. The conversation covers the transformative potential of fiber optic sensing technology, emphasizing its capabilities in monitoring critical infrastructure through acoustic, temperature, and strain detection. Paul also highlights the importance of raising awareness about this technology and its adoption in preventing damage and enhancing safety in utilities, transportation, and smart city projects. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Matt Wells of Bob Hull Inc., an underground contractor specializing in broadband infrastructure in the Midwest. Matt shares his journey from running a bar to leading a respected contracting company and offers insights into the challenges of the industry, including labor shortages, supply chain issues, and the growing demand for broadband expansion. The conversation explores the importance of strong relationships in the industry—both with employees and subcontractors—as well as the impact of federal funding initiatives like the BEAD program. Matt’s candid and engaging storytelling provides an inside look at what it takes to keep fiber in the ground, maintain a strong workforce, and navigate the evolving broadband landscape. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Jon Reddemann, Regional Manager with nVent, to discuss his journey in the HVAC industry, the challenges and strategies in technical sales, and the evolving role of energy storage in modern infrastructure. Jon shares insights into his career transition from managing aftermarket services to sales, the importance of preparation in sales strategy, and how relationship-building plays a crucial role in securing long-term customers. He also discusses his passion for motorcycles, his experience running his own HVAC company, and how that hands-on background has influenced his approach to sales and customer service. The conversation also dives into critical infrastructure topics such as cooling solutions for battery storage, the role of HVAC in data centers, and the future of nuclear energy versus renewable sources. Throughout the discussion, Jon emphasizes the importance of integrity, customer service, and mentorship in the industry. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode, we sit down with Phillip Kenslow, a key member of CBM’s Inside Sales team, to discuss his journey, experiences, and insights in the telecommunications industry. Phillip shares how he transitioned into his role, the mentorship that has shaped his career, and what makes CBM’s team culture unique. He also sheds light on what inside sales truly involves—beyond emails and phone calls—and how the team celebrates every win together. Whether you're in sales, telecommunications, or just love hearing about great company culture, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in to hear about Phillip’s growth, his favorite aspects of CBM, and what makes their employee-owned model so special. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Brett Cooper, Vice President of Communications and Commercial Industrial at CBM. Brett shares his insights on leadership, mentorship, and the evolving dynamics of the industries CBM serves. With over 18 years at CBM, Brett’s journey from distribution sales to leading two major markets has been shaped by his passion for people, problem-solving, and a commitment to customer success. Throughout the conversation, Brett and Tim discuss the challenges of sales, the importance of relationships in business, and how CBM’s ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) structure fosters a culture of ownership and long-term success. They also dive into leadership philosophies, team building, and what it takes to thrive in today’s fast-changing market. Whether you’re a business leader, a sales professional, or someone interested in company culture, this episode is packed with valuable insights. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode, we sit down with Pat Estenson from Polywater to discuss insights from the Mid-American Telecom Seminar and Showcase in Kansas City. Pat shares his experiences transitioning from the electrical side of the industry to the communications division, the evolving role of manufacturers and reps, and the challenges and opportunities in the telecom space. We dive into the importance of strong rep relationships, how distribution dynamics are shifting, and what manufacturers can do to make working with them easier. Whether you're in sales, manufacturing, or telecom, this episode provides valuable takeaways on navigating partnerships and industry changes. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.