

5G Guys | Tech Talks
5G Guys: Technology Experts
5G is here, and you probably have questions. Same goes for fiber, broadband, AI, etc.
We're here to help. The 5G Guys Podcast is a friendly resource for industry insiders and newcomers to explore anything and everything about wireless telecommunications and technology. Dan McVaugh and Wayne Smith discuss, explain, and explore all things wireless technology on the show. You'll find out what it means for your business or personal life when we talk about topics like 5G, 4G LTE networks, Internet of Things (IoT), Health & Safety, Business & Finance - as well as other wireless topics that are important in today's world.
Listen now! Subscribe so you don't miss an episode! And if you want more information on any of our episodes or topics discussed on the show - check out our website at www.5gguys.com where we have links to articles from various sources with additional information related to each topic we cover on the podcast! If there's something specific you want us to cover contact us at www.5gguys.com/contact-2 with your request! We're always happy to hear from listeners who have questions or comments they'd like addressed on future shows too!
We're here to help. The 5G Guys Podcast is a friendly resource for industry insiders and newcomers to explore anything and everything about wireless telecommunications and technology. Dan McVaugh and Wayne Smith discuss, explain, and explore all things wireless technology on the show. You'll find out what it means for your business or personal life when we talk about topics like 5G, 4G LTE networks, Internet of Things (IoT), Health & Safety, Business & Finance - as well as other wireless topics that are important in today's world.
Listen now! Subscribe so you don't miss an episode! And if you want more information on any of our episodes or topics discussed on the show - check out our website at www.5gguys.com where we have links to articles from various sources with additional information related to each topic we cover on the podcast! If there's something specific you want us to cover contact us at www.5gguys.com/contact-2 with your request! We're always happy to hear from listeners who have questions or comments they'd like addressed on future shows too!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 26, 2025 • 23min
FINAL EPISODE - Farewell
Farewell to 5G Guys: Reflecting on an Incredible Journey In the final episode of 5G Guys, hosts Dan McVaugh and Wayne Smith reflect on their three-and-a-half-year journey, celebrating their achievements and memorable moments. They discuss notable guests such as Marty Cooper, the father of the cell phone, and dive into the significant advances and current state of 5G technology. Wayne shares the future of Vertex Innovations, including their expansion into data centers and managed services. Meanwhile, Dan announces his new podcast, 'Connectivity Evolution,' which will continue exploring the impact of technology on human connectivity. The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to their listeners and a look ahead at their ongoing contributions to the industry. __________________________ CONNECT WITH DAN __________________________ Dan's new podcast ➡ Connectivity Evolution on Apple︎ Dan's new podcast ➡ Connectivity Evolution on Spotify Dan on LinkedIn ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/danmcvaugh/ __________________________ CONNECT WITH WAYNE __________________________ Vertex Innovations Website ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ Vertex on LinkedIn ➡︎ https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertexinnovations/posts/?feedView=all Vertex on X ➡︎ https://x.com/VertexInnovate ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:05 Reflecting on the Journey 01:16 Memorable Guests and Episodes 05:12 The Future of 5G and Beyond 07:14 Challenges and Innovations in the Industry 13:35 Updates and Future Plans 19:45 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Jul 3, 2024 • 31min
66. Season 4 Finale
5G Guys Season 4 Finale: Highlights, Insights, and Future Trends Join Wayne Smith and Dan McVaugh in the season 4 finale of the 5G Guys podcast as they recap the highlights and key insights from this season. They discuss notable guests, emerging trends in 5G and wireless technology, the impact of satellite networks like Starlink, regulatory issues such as net neutrality, and the latest business and finance trends in the telecom industry. Tune in to hear their predictions for the future, including the impact of AI, energy demands, and advancements in the wireless ecosystem. Stay informed and get ready for what's next in the world of 5G! __________________________ Links Referenced in the Show __________________________ BEAD Funding Status ➡︎ https://www.internetforall.gov/ __________________________ Connect With Our Sponsor __________________________ Vertex Innovations ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ __________________________ Connect With Us __________________________ 5G Guys Website ➡︎ https://5gguys.com Social: · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5Gguys · LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12515882 · X: https://twitter.com/5gGuys _______________________________ Submit Your Ideas or Feedback ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/contact-2 _______________________________ Subscribe to the 5G Guys Weekly Newsletter ➡︎ https://mailchi.mp/5gguys/subscribe-to-the-5g-guys _______________________________ ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Preview 00:58 5G Guys Podcast Introduction 01:19 Meet the Hosts: Dan and Wayne 01:38 Season Recap: Highlights and Guests 02:28 Private Networks and Satellite Connectivity 03:46 Net Neutrality and Regulations 04:06 Jim Patterson's Insights and Industry News 04:44 First Responder Networks 05:20 Advanced Positioning and Location Services 05:44 Fixed Wireless Access with Samsung 06:40 Season 4 Theme One - Wireless Technology Ecosystem 08:55 Season 4 Theme Two - The Business & Finance of Wireless Telecom 11:35 Verizon's Rebranding and Industry Changes 13:11 Carrier Spending and Vendor Impact 15:49 Supply Chain Issues and Future Outlook 16:48 Data Centers and Hyperscalers 23:24 Future Topics and Predictions 24:45 Energy Demands and Smart Grids 30:13 Season Wrap-Up and Farewell

Jun 25, 2024 • 8min
65. Storytelling & Predictions - Net Neutrality
Net Neutrality Insights: Consequences & Predictions with Dan McVaugh In this episode of 5G Guys, Dan McVaugh revisits the topic of net neutrality. Dan shares personal stories from his telecom career, highlighting potential unintended consequences if the FCC reinstates net neutrality by classifying telecom providers under Title II of the Communications Act. He explores the impacts on network performance, advanced 5G features, and critical services like FirstNet for first responders, ending with cautious predictions on the future judicial outcomes and their implications. __________________________ Link to Episode 63 with Nathan Leamer __________________________ Nathan Leamer on 5G Guys Podcast ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/podcast/63-net-neutrality-with-nathan-leamer/ __________________________ Connect With Our Sponsor __________________________ Vertex Innovations ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ __________________________ Connect With Us __________________________ 5G Guys Website ➡︎ https://5gguys.com Social: · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5Gguys · LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12515882 · X: https://twitter.com/5gGuys _______________________________ Submit Your Ideas or Feedback ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/contact-2 _______________________________ Subscribe to the 5G Guys Weekly Newsletter ➡︎ https://mailchi.mp/5gguys/subscribe-to-the-5g-guys _______________________________ ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Net Neutrality Discussion 00:46 Understanding Net Neutrality 01:34 Real-World Experiences and Stories 04:59 Potential Consequences of Net Neutrality 06:13 Current Status and Predictions 07:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jun 19, 2024 • 34min
64. 5G From Space with Skylo's Tarun Gupta
Revolutionizing Connectivity: Skylo Technologies and Satellite-Enhanced Cellular Networks In this episode of the 5G Guys, hosts Dan McVaugh and Wayne Smith dive into the topic of satellite-augmented cellular services. Joined by Tarun Gupta, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Skylo Technologies, they discuss how existing satellite licensed spectrum is used to enhance cellular connectivity. The conversation explores the technical details, regulatory challenges, and potential applications of Skylo's NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) service, which connects existing devices to satellite infrastructure. Key comparisons are made with solutions offered by companies like Apple, AST SpaceMobile, and Starlink. Gupta also shares insights on IoT, narrowband services, and the future of combined satellite and terrestrial networks. __________________________ Connect With Our Guest __________________________ Skylo's Website ➡︎ https://www.skylo.tech/ Tarun Gupta on LinkedIn ➡︎ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarunkgupta/ __________________________ Connect With Our Sponsor __________________________ Vertex Innovations ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ __________________________ Connect With Us __________________________ 5G Guys Website ➡︎ https://5gguys.com Social: · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5Gguys · LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12515882 · X: https://twitter.com/5gGuys _______________________________ Submit Your Ideas or Feedback ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/contact-2 _______________________________ Subscribe to the 5G Guys Weekly Newsletter ➡︎ https://mailchi.mp/5gguys/subscribe-to-the-5g-guys _______________________________ ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Preview 00:59 Introduction and Newsletter Reminder 01:22 Introducing Satellite Cell Service 01:38 Guest Introduction: Tarun Gupta from Skylo Technologies 02:15 Skylo Technologies: Company Overview 02:32 Connecting Devices to Satellite 04:40 Comparing Skylo with Other Satellite Services 11:02 The Role of IoT in Satellite Connectivity 13:30 Narrowband vs. Broadband Services 14:41 Future of Satellite and Terrestrial Networks 17:46 Voice Services and Safety Applications 20:58 Skylo's Unique Approach and Roaming Partnerships 28:32 Private Networks and Enterprise Solutions 30:28 Predictions for the Future of Satellite Networks 32:42 Conclusion and How to Connect with Skylo

Jun 5, 2024 • 41min
63. Net Neutrality with Nathan Leamer
The Evolution and Impact of Net Neutrality with Nathan Leamer In this episode of The 5G Guys, hosts Wayne Smith and Dan McVaugh discuss net neutrality with guest Nathan Leamer, former policy advisor to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, and current CEO of Fixed Gear Strategies. They explore net neutrality's origins, implications, and future, including its initial introduction, the political debates surrounding it, and its potential effects on innovation and consumer access. Nathan shares insights from his diverse career in tech policy, from Capitol Hill to founding his consulting firm, and highlights ongoing issues like digital discrimination and the digital divide. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on how regulatory policies shape the internet landscape and what that means for consumers and innovation. __________________________ Connect With Our Guest __________________________ Nathan Leamer on X ➡︎ https://x.com/NathanLeamerDC Nathan Leamer on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-leamer-0558b138/ Fixed Gear Strategies on LinkedIn ➡︎ https://www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-gear-strategies/ __________________________ Connect With Our Sponsor __________________________ Vertex Innovations ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ __________________________ Connect With Us __________________________ 5G Guys Website ➡︎ https://5gguys.com Social: · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5Gguys · LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12515882 · X: https://twitter.com/5gGuys _______________________________ Submit Your Ideas or Feedback ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/contact-2 _______________________________ Subscribe to the 5G Guys Weekly Newsletter ➡︎ https://mailchi.mp/5gguys/subscribe-to-the-5g-guys _______________________________ ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Preview 01:30 Introduction and Welcome 02:11 Guest Introduction: Nathan Leamer 02:54 Nathan's Background and Career Journey 05:25 Defining Net Neutrality 05:38 Historical Context of Net Neutrality 09:21 Net Neutrality and Consumer Impact 09:53 Technological Advancements and Net Neutrality 10:59 Restoring Internet Freedom Order 11:45 Global Perspectives on Internet Regulation 13:03 Current Debates and Legal Frameworks 17:51 Potential Impacts on Network Management 19:29 AI and Network Management 22:03 Digital Discrimination and DEI 23:39 Future of Net Neutrality 26:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

May 15, 2024 • 39min
62. The Future of Technology in Federal Applications: Insights from Intel's CTO
The Future of Technology in Federal Applications: Insights from Intel's CTO In this 5G Guys podcast episode, we talk with guest Steve Orrin, the Chief Technology Officer and Senior Professional Engineer for Intel Federal. Steve shares insights from his ten-year tenure at Intel, focusing on helping the government adopt advanced technologies. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the impact of AI, cybersecurity, pervasive connectivity, and the role of data in driving technological innovations. Steve provides examples of AI applications in government sectors, such as using drones for forest health monitoring and the benefits of pervasive connectivity in crisis situations. He also touches upon the cybersecurity challenges new technologies present and the importance of Zero Trust Architecture in managing these issues. Additionally, Orrin discusses regulatory policies and the future of technology adoption at the federal level, with implications for consumer technology. The episode offers a comprehensive look at the intersection of government, technology, and security, highlighting the ongoing innovations and challenges in the field. __________________________ Connect With Our Guest __________________________ Intel Federal Website ➡︎ https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/government/public-sector-solutions-overview.html Steve Orrin on LinkedIn ➡︎ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorrin/ __________________________ Connect With Our Sponsor __________________________ Vertex Innovations ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ __________________________ Connect With Us __________________________ 5G Guys Website ➡︎ https://5gguys.com Social: · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5Gguys · LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12515882 · X: https://twitter.com/5gGuys _______________________________ Submit Your Ideas or Feedback ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/contact-2 _______________________________ Subscribe to the 5G Guys Weekly Newsletter ➡︎ https://mailchi.mp/5gguys/subscribe-to-the-5g-guys _______________________________ ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Episode Preview 00:29 Introducing the 5G Guys Podcast 01:02 Special Guest: Steve Orrin from Intel Federal 01:29 Steve Orrin's Journey to Intel Federal CTO 03:30 The Broad Impact of Federal Technology Initiatives 04:53 Exploring the Evolution of Technology Trends 05:57 The Convergence of AI, Data, and Connectivity 07:51 Revolutionizing Industries with Advanced Technologies 12:12 The Future of Peer-to-Peer Connectivity and Its Uses 16:41 Cybersecurity in the Age of Pervasive Connectivity 16:58 Navigating the Complex Landscape of Cybersecurity 20:38 Embracing Zero Trust Architecture for Enhanced Security 22:33 The Challenge of Securing IoT Devices 25:03 Leveraging Government and Industry Collaboration for Security 25:57 The Role of Regulatory Policies in Technology Adoption 32:59 Anticipating the Future: AI, 5G, and Smart Infrastructure 33:29 The Potential of AI in Streamlining Business Processes 35:35 The Impact of 5G on Future Applications and Connectivity 37:12 Instrumenting Infrastructure for a Smarter Future 38:23 Reflecting on Intel's Evolution and Future Directions 38:48 Closing Thoughts and Looking Ahead

May 1, 2024 • 1h 3min
61. Q1 Telco Earnings with Jim Patterson
Telecom and Technology Earnings Insights: A Deep Dive with Industry Veterans In this episode of 'The 5G Guys', hosts Wayne Smith and Dan McVaugh invite telecom industry veteran Jim Patterson to discuss the latest earnings reports from major telecom and technology companies. Jim Patterson, with a 30-year career including 15 years at Sprint and experience as an entrepreneur, now offers analysis through Patterson Advisory Group. The episode explores key themes in the earnings reports, such as reactions to pricing, C band deployments, and company strategies for managing debt. Patterson shares insights on Verizon's performance, AT&T's focus on fiber broadband and debt reduction, and T-Mobile's successful Sprint acquisition. The conversation also addresses the struggles and strategies of prepaid services, the impact of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) winding down, net neutrality, and telecom companies' approaches to the evolving market. The episode concludes with discussions on Comcast and Charter Spectrum's recent performance, emphasizing Charter's successful mobile strategy. __________________________ Connect With Our Guest __________________________ Sunday Brief Website ➡︎ https://sundaybrief.com/ Interim Earnings Report ➡︎ https://sundaybrief.com/value-creation-long-term-charts-fab-five-vs-telco-top-five-april-26/ Full Earnings Report ➡︎ Jim Patterson on LinkedIn ➡︎ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jipatterson/ __________________________ Connect With Our Sponsor __________________________ Vertex Innovations ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ __________________________ Connect With Us __________________________ 5G Guys Website ➡︎ https://5gguys.com Social: · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5Gguys · LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12515882 · X: https://twitter.com/5gGuys _______________________________ Submit Your Ideas or Feedback ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/contact-2 _______________________________ Subscribe to the 5G Guys Weekly Newsletter ➡︎ https://mailchi.mp/5gguys/subscribe-to-the-5g-guys _______________________________ ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Trailer 00:30 Introduction to the 5G Guys Podcast Episode 01:06 Earnings Season Insights with Guest Jim Patterson 01:30 Jim Patterson's Background and Expertise 02:06 Diving into Telecom Earnings: Key Themes and Takeaways 06:07 Verizon's Earnings Analysis: Postpaid, Prepaid, and FWA 18:21 AT&T's Earnings Overview: Broadband Deployment and Business Wireline 24:54 The Shift in Business Connectivity and Office Environments 26:56 Upcoming Focus: Verizon and AT&T's Strategy and Upgrades 28:51 T-Mobile's Earnings and Strategies 28:56 T-Mobile's Lumos Announcement and Strategic Moves 29:05 The German Ownership of T-Mobile and Strategic Implications 29:14 Unpacking T-Mobile's Strategic Moves 29:41 T-Mobile's Investment in Lumos: A Closer Look 30:26 Exploring the Wholesale Business Model 30:44 T-Mobile's Impact on Rural America 32:03 The Benefits of T-Mobile's Acquisition Strategy 32:34 Retail Prepaid Challenges and Strategic Shifts 36:50 The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Explained 39:16 Net Neutrality and FCC Changes: What's Next? 41:49 The Evolution of Broadband and Its Future 47:24 Comcast's Earnings and Strategic Challenges 54:16 Spectrum's Position and Future Prospects 59:41 Charter vs. Comcast: A Mobile Strategy Comparison 01:01:47 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

Apr 16, 2024 • 18min
60. Storytelling and Predictions - Premier, Wireless Economy
Navigating the Waves of Telecom: From CapEx Booms to Strategic Spending The 5G Guys podcast hosts, Dan McVaugh and Wayne Smith, introduce a new series titled 'Storytelling and Predictions,' aimed at sharing their extensive experience and insights into the telecommunications industry without overshadowing their guests. They dive into the impact of 5G on capital expenditure, noting a significant increase in spending to roll out 5G networks, which is now adjusting back to normal levels. The discussion transitions into the differences between CapEx and OpEx spending, emphasizing the shift towards maintenance and optimization of networks post-major rollouts. The hosts reflect on past downturns in the telecom industry, comparing them to the current market dynamics and predicting future trends, such as vendor consolidation and the strategic deployment of mid-band spectrum for 5G. The episode highlights the unique position of the telecom industry amidst economic fluctuations and the evolving landscape of network development. __________________________ Connect With Our Sponsor __________________________ Vertex Innovations ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ __________________________ Connect With Us __________________________ 5G Guys Website ➡︎ https://5gguys.com Social: · Facebook ➡︎ https://www.facebook.com/5Gguys · LinkedIn ➡︎ https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12515882 · X ➡︎ https://twitter.com/5gGuys _______________________________ Submit Your Ideas or Feedback ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/contact-2 _______________________________ Subscribe to the 5G Guys Weekly Newsletter ➡︎ https://mailchi.mp/5gguys/subscribe-to-the-5g-guys _______________________________ ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Preview 00:59 Introducing the 5G Guys Podcast 01:30 Launching the Storytelling and Predictions Series 01:45 Why Storytelling Matters in Tech 02:21 Drawing from Decades of Telecom Experience 03:17 The Unique Format of the New Series 03:44 A Timely Tale: Navigating Downturns in Telecom 04:19 Firsthand Experiences with Industry Downturns 05:15 The Impact of Economic Events on Telecom 07:39 Understanding CapEx vs. OpEx in Telecom 11:29 Predicting the Future of Telecom and Vendor Dynamics 14:22 Government Funding and Its Impact on Telecom 15:12 Dan's Predictions for the Telecom Industry 17:35 Closing Remarks and Invitation to Connect

4 snips
Mar 13, 2024 • 36min
59. Saving Telco from Itself with Pete Bernard
Guest Pete Bernard discusses challenges facing the telco industry, advocating for agility and solution-oriented thinking. Key topics include embracing edge computing, software expertise, open architectures, and redefining telco roles. Exploring cost-effective AI computing on edge devices and navigating talent drain for innovation in the industry.

Feb 28, 2024 • 31min
58. Building Cell Sites Can Be a Win-Win with Hugh Odom of Vertical Consultants
In this episode of 'The 5G Guys' podcast, hosts Dan McVaugh and Wayne Smith discuss the rapidly changing landscape of telecommunications infrastructure and 5G technology with guest Hugh Odom, the founder of Vertical Consultants. The discussion plunges into the transformation of carrier models for property owners, the influence of municipalities and private networks, and the necessity of regulation. Important subjects touched upon include the carriers versus tower companies' different business models, the introduction of small cells in the public right of way, and the realization of telecommunication services as the fourth utility. In the backdrop, Hugh Odom offers educated insights on the future of how business gets done between cellular carriers and tower companies and the building and landowners they do business with to procure leases for building their infrastructure. Hugh shares his perspective on the need to shift the cell site leasing model to be more considerate of the needs and rights of the property owners who are leasing to the cellular carriers. Join us in a great point-counterpoint discussion with Hugh about how business relationships can evolve and offer scenarios where all parties win. __________________________ Connect With Our Guests __________________________ Vertical Consultants Website ➡︎ https://www.celltowerleaseexperts.com/ Hugh Odom LinkedIn ➡︎ https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugh-d-odom-a13b7025/ __________________________ Connect With Our Sponsor __________________________ Vertex Innovations ➡︎ https://vertex-us.com/ __________________________ Connect With Us __________________________ 5G Guys Website ➡︎ https://5gguys.com Social: · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5Gguys · LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12515882 · X: https://twitter.com/5gGuys _______________________________ Submit Your Ideas or Feedback ➡︎ https://5gguys.com/contact-2 _______________________________ Subscribe to the 5G Guys Weekly Newsletter ➡︎ https://mailchi.mp/5gguys/subscribe-to-the-5g-guys _______________________________ ⏰Episode Minute-by-Minute⏰ 00:00 Trailer 00:28 Welcome to the 5G Guys Podcast 00:49 Introducing the Hosts and the Show 01:25 Guest Introduction: Hugh Odom 02:23 Hugh's Work with Vertical Consultants 03:30 History of Infrastructure Development 03:49 Changes in the Telecom Industry 04:31 The Evolution of Wireless Deals 05:00 The Impact of Infrastructure Build Out 05:19 The Challenges of Municipalities 07:13 The Changing Economics of Property Ownership 07:34 The Role of Vertical Consultants 08:44 The Shift in Lease Agreements 15:55 The Future of Municipal Networks 21:54 The Impact of Public-Private Partnerships 23:48 The Digital Divide and the Fourth Utility 25:04 The Potential for Regulation in the Telecom Industry 28:09 The Future of Network Deployment 29:58 Closing Thoughts and Reflections


