The following summary has been condensed for length and readability. To listen to the full discussion, click here. This episode is sponsored by ETI Software and VETRO FiberMap.
In an episode of The Broadband Bunch host Brad Hine catches up with Carter Old, the CEO of Lyte Fiber. Carter’s remarkable journey from his Navy service to becoming a leader in broadband innovation is inspiring and offers valuable insights into the evolving world of connectivity. This episode dives into Carter’s unique background, the launch of Lyte Fiber, and the future of broadband.
Carter’s professional journey is anything but conventional. After earning a BA in Government and complETIng Navy ROTC at the University of Texas at Austin, Carter served as a naval officer aboard two different ships: a guided missile destroyer and a minesweeper. His time in the Navy exposed him to leadership, problem-solving, and communications technologies, which later became foundational to his career in broadband and telecommunications.
Reflecting on his Navy experience, Carter highlighted its role in shaping his leadership style. He spoke about the importance of discipline, adaptability, and teamwork—qualities that have served him well in the fast-paced world of tech entrepreneurship.
After leaving the Navy, Carter transitioned into the business world, where he combined his technical knowledge with his newfound interest in finance. One of his first significant roles involved working on the financial side of satellite communications at Iridium. This experience not only deepened his understanding of the telecommunications industry but also gave him a front-row seat to the challenges and opportunities of managing large infrastructure projects.
Carter’s entrepreneurial spirit came to the forefront with Tachus Fiber, a Houston-based ISP that he co-founded. Over just three and a half years, Tachus grew to serve over 20,000 customers, achieved 70,000+ passings, and employed 160 people. This rapid growth earned Carter and his co-founder recognition as finalists for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2022.
After taking some time off following his Tachus journey, Carter returned to the broadband industry with a fresh vision and a new partner: SDC Capital Partners. Together, they launched Lyte Fiber, a startup ISP based in Houston, Texas. Lyte Fiber is designed to meet the growing demand for high-speed internet while addressing challenges such as underserved areas and outdated infrastructure.
The company’s first market, Baytown, is already underway, with plans to expand into additional markets across Texas and beyond. With hundreds of thousands of homes identified as potential service areas, Lyte Fiber is preparing for a significant expansion in 2025, aiming to bridge the connectivity gap in both urban and rural communities.
Throughout the podcast, Carter shared his perspectives on the broadband industry, reflecting on its evolution over the past decade. He noted that six years ago, consumers were still learning about fiber and its benefits over older technologies like cable. Today, fiber is widely recognized as the superior medium for delivering high-speed, reliable internet, thanks in part to the rise of streaming and the increased need for robust connectivity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, Carter acknowledged that fiber isn’t always the perfect solution. In extremely rural areas, the cost of fiber deployment can exceed $100,000 per mile, making it an impractical choice. In such cases, alternative technologies like fixed wireless and satellite can provide viable solutions. Carter emphasized the importance of choosing the right tool for the right project, a sentiment echoed throughout the broadband industry.
Another key theme discussed was the impact of BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) funding. While this government initiative has the potential to accelerate broadband deployment, Carter warned of the risks associated with overbuilding—using federal funds to deploy infrastructure in areas already served by private investment. He highlighted the need for careful planning and collaboration to ensure BEAD funding achieves its intended goals.
Carter’s experience at Tachus provided him with invaluable lessons that he now applies at Lyte Fiber. One of the most significant takeaways was the importance of building the right team. He emphasized that having a first-rate team is more critical than having a first-rate business plan, as the former can adapt and execute effectively even in challenging circumstances.
Another lesson was the value of communication. Carter believes in overcommunicating with both internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure transparency and alignment. He also stressed the need for flexibility and contingency planning, as unforeseen events—ranging from weather disruptions to key personnel absences—can derail even the best-laid plans.
Carter introduced a framework he uses to measure the efficiency of an ISP: Passings, Penetration, and Profitability. This sequence reflects the progression of a successful broadband deployment. First, identify and pass potential customers; next, focus on penetrating the market by converting passings into subscribers; and finally, achieve profitability by optimizing operations and scaling effectively.
He also discussed the differences between B2B and B2C models in the ISP world. While B2B models often involve higher revenue per customer, B2C models require a more operationally intensive approach due to the higher volume of lower-ticket transactions. Understanding these dynamics has been crucial to Lyte Fiber’s strategy.
The conversation also touched on the role of technology in shaping the broadband landscape. Carter expressed the need for better OSS/BSS (Operational Support Systems/Business Support Systems) platforms to streamline processes and enhance customer experiences. While many platforms exist, he noted that none fully meet the needs of modern ISPs, leaving room for innovation in this area.
Carter also highlighted the rise of cloud-native platforms as a game-changer for the industry. By leveraging the scalability and flexibility of cloud-based systems, ISPs can reduce costs and improve efficiency, ultimately delivering better service to their customers.
Given that the episode was recorded on Veterans Day, Carter reflected on how his military service has shaped his career. He encouraged listeners to consider the military as a path for personal growth and professional development, particularly for young adults seeking discipline and purpose. Carter praised the men and women serving today, emphasizing their role as future leaders and innovators.
Looking ahead, Lyte Fiber is gearing up for a busy 2025. The company plans to announce two new markets in early 2025 and is evaluating dozens of others for potential expansion. With a focus on organic growth and a commitment to serving underserved communities, Lyte Fiber aims to become a leader in the regional ISP space.
Carter emphasized that while the road ahead will involve challenges, the company’s strong foundation—built on lessons learned, a talented team, and a clear vision—positions it for success. He also invited listeners to stay connected with Lyte Fiber via their website and social media channels for updates on their journey.
This episode of The Broadband Bunch offers a wealth of insights for entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and broadband enthusiasts alike. From Carter’s leadership lessons to his vision for Lyte Fiber, the conversation underscores the importance of innovation, adaptability, and teamwork in tackling the connectivity challenges of today and tomorrow.
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