Andy Johns is joined by Chris Townson, CEO of West Carolina and Upcountry Fiber, to talk about what makes a strong partnership. Chris shares candid lessons from working with telcos, electrics and municipalities—including how to evaluate opportunities, align missions, manage egos and build lasting agreements.
What You’ll Learn Getting to know the reporters, editors and producers covering your territory can lead to positive coverage or help make sure your side has a voice in any negative stories. Website: https://www.hsvutil.org/ Guest Speaker Joe Gehrdes
What You’ll Learn Wiregrass Electric Cooperative has been recognized nationally for its innovative takes on community service programs. What are some new ways your utility could serve its members or customers? Website: https://www.wiregrass.coop/ Guest Speaker Brad Kimbro
What You’ll Learn In industries full of acronyms and technical jargon, how do you make sure you are still speaking a language your customers can understand? Website: http://www.consortiaconsulting.com/ Guest Speaker Carissa Swenson
What You’ll Learn ETC has launched a popular new program involving local school that asks students to pitch ideas for community projects. The winners receive IGNITE Education Grants from ETC. Website: http://etcnow.com/Bundles/ Guest Speaker Nathan Collier
What You’ll Learn WCTEL offers customer education classes for members. While the classes are informative for the attendees, they also help WCTEL staff get to know their customers. Website: https://www.wctel.net/ Guest Speaker Virginia Smith
What You’ll Learn Hurricane Harvey ravaged the Texas Gulf Coast causing widespread flooding and other damage. Throughout it all though, YK Communications‘ network and employees shined. After our podcast, NTCA followed up with a video interview with Russel Kacer: Guest Speaker Russel Kacer
What You’ll Learn Hurricane Matthew sent eight inches of flood water running through the office at Star Communications in North Carolina. How did they respond? After our podcast, NTCA followed up with a video interview with Kyle Randleman: Guest Speaker Kyle Randleman
What You’ll Learn Ashley Etter runs the Snapchat account for West Central Telephone Association. She shares insights into how the platform is different from other social media and communication tools. Website: https://www.wcta.net/site/ Guest Speaker Ashley Etter
What You’ll Learn Best-selling author and social media expert Mack Collier previews his upcoming session at StoryConnect, explaining the difference between customers and fans. Website: http://www.mackcollier.com/ Guest Speaker Mack Collier
What You’ll Learn In 2017, DTC won a Telechoice Award from NTCA for loca video content. What sets them apart? Website: https://dtc3.tv/ Guest Speaker Tom Duggin And Nick Nokes
What You’ll Learn Municipal electric and fiber optic provider EPB in Chattanooga worked well in advance of the FCC’s decision to craft a careful message about Net Neutrality. Website: https://epb.com/customercarepledge Guest Speaker J.Ed. Marston
What You’ll Learn In 2016, Silver Star reinvigorated its Tech Star repair program. How did they do it and how has it helped the telco? Website: https://www.silverstar.com/ Guest Speaker Eric Gewiss
