In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, recorded live from Fiber Connect 2025, host Brad Hine sits down with Stephen Rose, CEO of Render Networks, for a conversation about the evolving broadband landscape and the role of intelligent infrastructure. Stephen shares his journey from global telecom operations to leading innovation at Render, drawing on past leadership roles at IBM, Nokia, and the Nobel Prize-winning Nokia Bell Labs. The discussion covers a wide range of topics—from Render's latest industry partnerships with EXFO and VETRO FiberMap, to the impact of AI and automation in fiber network deployment. Stephen emphasizes the need for data transparency, cross-industry collaboration, and scalable software ecosystems to address challenges like labor shortages, cost overruns, and operational inefficiencies. Listeners will also get insights into Render’s growing influence beyond telecommunications, including electric and utility sectors, and how Render’s platform continues to drive digital transformation even after network builds are complete.