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 this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine sits down with Matt Mandel, Vice President of Government Affairs at WISPA, to discuss the world of broadband policy, government advocacy, and the role of WISPs in closing the digital divide.
With over two decades of experience in public affairs and a deep history on Capitol Hill, Matt offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to influence policy at the federal and state level. From his early days interning for a congressman in Richmond, Virginia, to his current work lobbying for spectrum access and technology-neutral regulations, Matt’s journey is both inspiring and informative.
A key focus of the conversation is the growing importance of fixed wireless technology in reaching unserved and underserved communities. Mandel emphasizes that as the BEAD program experiences delays, WISPs are uniquely positioned to fill connectivity gaps quickly and cost-effectively. He makes the case for a technology-neutral approach to federal broadband programs—urging policymakers to value outcomes (reliable, fast service) over infrastructure type (fiber vs. wireless vs. satellite).
“Congress is starting to understand: what matters isn’t how you connect people—it’s that you connect them well and now,” says Mandel.
Mandel dives into the daily challenges of government affairs, including translating technical telecom issues into language that resonates with lawmakers and navigating a deeply partisan political environment. His role includes constant communication with Congress, federal agencies like the FCC and NTIA, and local stakeholders to ensure small ISPs are represented in policy discussions.
He also offers insight into BEAD program uncertainty, ongoing spectrum policy debates, and emerging bipartisan legislation to exempt broadband infrastructure from certain taxes—efforts that could greatly accelerate deployment.
Throughout the episode, both Brad and Matt celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of WISPs—those small, community-focused providers who climb towers, lay cable, and answer customer support calls themselves. These local providers are the ones filling the gaps left by larger national carriers, often with razor-thin margins but deep dedication.
“The customer service number is often the owner’s cell phone,” Matt jokes, “That’s the kind of personal commitment you see from WISPs across the country.”
As BEAD funding clarity nears and a new NTIA head steps in, Mandel is optimistic that policy momentum will return. He encourages WISPA members and industry stakeholders to get involved through WISPA committees and keep the advocacy engine fueled by real-world input.
“Help us help you. The more we hear from the field, the better we can shape policies that work.”
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