PODCAST: Vistabeam’s Larsen on taking a hands-on local approach to rural broadband

Vistabeam is another example of a company finding a way to serve the often-overlooked rural market. Matt and Monique Larsen, who co-founded Vistabeam in 2004, believed rural communities deserved better internet and better opportunities. Like other entrepreneurs who rose during the early days of the internet, the Larsens were working at another ISP, but saw an opportunity to leverage new wireless technology with a local hands on focus that a national provider can’t offer. 

Vistabeam has continued to grow. Today, its network covers 50,000 square miles and serves more than 100 towns across western Nebraska, northeastern Colorado, and southeastern Wyoming — the region it calls Wyobraskarado. The company maintains that its differentiator is not technology, but rather “its heart.” The company is family-owned, locally operated, and committed to creating good jobs in the communities it serves. 

Key Moments in This Episode

Opening

0:05 Introduction of our guest

0:28 Vistabeam’s broadband journey
Matt Larsen talks about how Vistabeam has evolved since its founding in 2004.

2:36 Fixed wireless and fiber
How Vistabeam is leveraging fixed wireless and fiber to bring broadband to rural areas of Nebraska, northeastern Colorado, and southeastern Wyoming. 

4:27 Weighing fiber and wireless options
Vistabeam sees fiber and wireless as being a tool that fits specific situations. 

5:52 The competitive landscape
While Vistabeam faces a mix of traditional rural telcos and competitors, the company says its value lies in its local and responsive approach.  

7:19 Middle Mile
Vistabeam has built its own middle mile networks with microwave and available fiber to backhaul traffic. 

9:19 Fiber broadband expansions
The service provider has been leveraging state grants to build fiber in Kimball, Mitchell and Oshkosh, Nebraska. 

12:18 Business service options
Vistabeam is being opportunistic with business services, which are resonating with tractor dealerships and others. 

14:27 Final Thoughts/closing