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Send us Fan Mail We sit down with fiber optics expert John Bruno to talk about what is changing fastest in fiber and what those changes mean for real technicians and designers. We dig into hollow-core fiber, multi-core fiber, and MMC connectors, then zoom out to the mindset and habits that build a long career in the ICT and low voltage trades.  • why fiber demand keeps rising with AI data centers and infrastructure buildouts  • the case for trades and apprenticeships alongside college paths and the debt question  • hollow-core fiber basics, why latency and attenuation matter and why price matters too  • what hollow-core could mean for long distance and subsea networks  • multi-core fiber explained, what multiple cores change and what it could replace  • splicing, testing, bend sensitivity and crosstalk concerns with next-gen fiber types  • MMC connectors for extreme density and why rack space drives connector innovation  • how install speed improves while troubleshooting and repair get more complex  • misinformation in fiber, common myths and how solid procedures beat ego  • career advice for the next generation, learn daily, make mistakes and keep going  If you’re watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced? If you’re listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating? If you find value in this content, will you click on that QR code right there? You can buy me a cup of coffee. You can even schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call with me after hours, of course. You can even buy Let’s Talk Cabling merchandise.  Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We answer rapid-fire questions that separate pretty cabling from high-performing structured cabling systems, from tie-wrap pressure and bend radius to the real reasons links fail certification. We also get practical about project realities like crushed schedules, scope creep, testing expectations, and the skills that keep techs and PMs valuable as AI and fiber adoption grow.  • choosing Velcro or tie wraps without crushing the jacket  • quick bend radius checks that prevent hidden damage  • diagnosing certification failures beyond “clean” terminations  • protecting pair twist and performance over rack cosmetics  • balancing speed and quality with mid-project checkpoints  • avoiding new PM mistakes around handling limits and testing types  • stopping scope creep with documentation and change orders  • when to stick with one manufacturer for headroom and warranty  • angled patch panels versus flat panels and rack space tradeoffs  • running a real site walk with ladder flashlight PPE and access questions  • where AI hits first and how field work changes later  • why copper and fiber both stay relevant plus the top future skills  Make sure you come back next Wednesday night.  Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We break down how BICSI leadership really works and why volunteering is one of the most direct ways to improve the ICT industry. Justin Hobbs shares what the Board focuses on, how the LDC protects the election process, and why servant leadership matters more than titles.  • why volunteering keeps ICT moving forward  • what the BICSI Board of Directors does at a high level  • how operations and strategy stay separate  • what the Leadership Development Committee does as checks and balances  • what kind of candidate thrives and who should not run  • the real time commitment including quarterly meetings and election-season interviews  • term limits, accountability, and preserving institutional knowledge  • the nomination process from application to interviews to the member vote  • pushing past imposter syndrome and choosing willingness over perfection  If you're listening to us on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced?  If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating?  Wednesday night, 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, what are you doing?  If you find value in this content, number one, share the content with somebody. Number two, you can would you click on that QR code right there? You can buy me a cup of coffee. You can even schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call with me after hours, of course.  Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We break down seven common field mistakes that quietly ruin structured cabling performance even when the work looks clean. We also share the mindset habits that separate average installs from work that passes certification, earns trust, and holds up years later.  • untwisting pairs too far at termination and losing noise resistance  • setting the punch tool wrong and risking bad IDC terminations  • ignoring bend radius rules and creating internal crosstalk  • pulling cable with too much tension and stretching or breaking conductors  • treating heat, storage, and jacket damage as “no big deal”  • labeling late or inconsistently and making troubleshooting painful  • mixing manufacturers and undermining optimization and warranties  • skipping certification testing or trusting continuity too much  • slowing down to prevent rework and protect profit  • learning from mistakes, finding a mentor, taking pride in craft  If you're watching the show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced? If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating? If you found value in this, please share this with another technician who's coming up behind you because at the end of the day, knowledge is power.  Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We replay a practical guide to firestop selection and explain why the right choice starts with the barrier, the penetration, and the tested UL system. We break down mechanical and non-mechanical firestop systems so you can seal penetrations correctly, support future cable adds, and avoid costly code violations.  • four selection factors: assembly type, barrier construction, penetrants, sealing method to restore rating  • mechanical firestop systems for vibration and shock tolerance  • cable transit systems and how inserts compress around cables  • fire-rated pathways for easy moves adds and changes  • factory fabricated sleeves, bushings, mineral wool, and AHJ approval  • non-mechanical options: putty, firestop caulk, cementitious materials, pillows, bricks, blankets  • firestop properties: intumescent expansion, endothermic heat absorption, ablative char formation  • why grout and plaster crack and fail as firestopping  • membrane penetrations versus through penetrations with real examples  • annular space limits and why too much or too little material fails  • seven jobsite tips: follow UL drawings, never mix materials, label and document, watch curing hazards and fumes  If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced? If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating? Would you mind clicking on that QR code right there? You can become a Patreon member, you can buy Let's Talk Hilling t-shirts and support this podcast  Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We record from BICSI CALA, Costa Rica to clear up a stubborn myth about the National Electrical Code and explain how it becomes enforceable outside the United States. Fernando Escelente frm the NFPA clears up some confusion. We also dig into how NFPA supports adoption across Latin America through translation, access, training, and certification as new technology and new NEC editions arrive. • NEC as a reference code vs a legally adopted code • How Latin American countries adopt different NEC editions • Why outdated NEC versions create safety gaps • The challenge of translating legal technical language into Spanish • Using AI translation with subject matter expert review • NFPA resources for access including NFPA Link • Training and certification as the difference between rules and real compliance • Local amendments and how jurisdictions tailor enforcement • Timeline expectations for NEC 2026 translation and adoption • Committee participation and why balanced panels protect safety • Why adoption must be paired with training and inspection Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We sit down with the Goldilock team to challenge the default “add more software” mindset and focus on a blunt truth: if a network is not connected, it cannot be hacked from the outside. We dig into how Layer 1 physical disconnection works with existing security tools, what it means for installers and PMs, and why protecting backups and controlling third-party access can change your blast radius overnight.  • Physical network disconnection as Layer 1 defense  • Why software-only security becomes an arms race  • Picking disconnect points based on a risk register  • Bulkhead and light switch analogies for technicians  • Using APIs to trigger disconnects from existing security tools  • Timeouts, default states, and safe reconnection practices  • Ransomware reality and why attackers go after backups first  • Retrofit and rack installation considerations for a 1U device  • Manual firmware updates, maintenance windows, and validation audits  • Third-party access windows with auditing and certainty  • Coordinating installers, PMs, IT, and OT through labs and simulations  • Future direction as AI speeds up attacks  If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced? If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating?  Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We explore how women build careers across ICT—from field installation and union apprenticeship to BIM-driven design and executive leadership—and why mentorship and culture make or break growth. The conversation closes with practical steps for newcomers and companies to open doors. • why Women in Construction Week matters to ICT • three career paths across field, design, and leadership • first-day lessons and confidence under pressure • BIM and Revit as force multipliers for delivery • breaking stereotypes with results and skill • how leadership sets culture and retention • building intentional mentorship and clear ladders • data center demand and the talent shortfall • actionable advice for 19-year-old newcomers If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being created If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star reading Wednesday night, 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, you know I do a live stream on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, anywhere I can figure out how to send that live stream to, where you can ask your favorite RCDD Would you mind clicking on the cable code right there? You can schedule 15-minute one-on-one call with me after hours, of course. You can even buy Let's Talk Cabling merchandise Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We dig into the cable combing debate with Henry Frank, separating myth from practice and explaining how modern Cat 6A design and standards testing changed the rules. Along the way, we talk PoE heating, short channels, culture clashes, and why neat work still wins trust. • what cable combing actually is and why it matters • where old randomization advice came from • alien crosstalk explained clearly for installers • manufacturer six-around-one worst-case testing • PoE heat, LP ratings, and real-world bundle risk • short channels and four-connector topologies • when to comb for serviceability and pride • why joining standards groups grows your career If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the bell button and the subscribe button to be notified when new content is being produced If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating Would you mind clicking on that QR code right there? You can buy me a cup of coffee You can even schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call with me, after hours, of course Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We break down why acronyms help experts move fast and why they lock out newcomers. We map old and new ICT terms, show how meanings shift across trades, and share a free handbook and simple rules to write clear, usable documents. • barriers created by acronym-heavy talk • MDF and IDF history and current TR and ER terms • bonding and grounding updates including TMGB to PBB and TBB IBC to BBC • multiple-meaning acronyms like AP, CO, DAS, RFI, FTP • documentation best practice: write full term, add acronym, then use • efficiency vs inclusion when speaking to mixed audiences • regional and cross-discipline differences and how to navigate them • free resource: ICT Terminology Handbook and why to share it • encouraging questions and private, kind corrections Go to Google, type in ICT Terminology Handbook. Download it and send that web link to a peer, an installer, or an apprentice so they can learn it. Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We sit down with outgoing TR-42 chair Henry Frank to unpack how standards are made, why contracts turn “voluntary” rules into must-do requirements, and what’s changing in cabling for extended reach, fiber polarity, and the 568 family. Clear takeaways for installers, designers, and owners on navigating codes, specs, and practical testing. • codes vs standards vs specifications and how contracts make standards enforceable • keeping references current and using “most current including addenda” • what TR-42 covers across media, methods, and use cases • consensus process, ballots, and public review • consolidation of 568.0, 568.1, and 862 into one reference • fiber polarity challenges for AI and high-density links • extended reach over copper and the focus on field validation • myths and marketing terms like Cat 6e and “industrial” categories • why TIA does not use Cat 7 or 7A and how Cat 6A was right-sized • design tradeoffs: room placement, channel limits, and real estate impact • how to participate in TIA, ISO, and BICSI standards work If you're watching this on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced If you're listening to us on the one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating Would you click on that QR code right there You can buy me a cup of coffee You can even schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call with me after hours, of course And you can even buy Let's Talk Cabling Merchandise Wednesday nights, 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, what are you doing You know I do a live stream on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, and anywhere else I can figure out to send the live stream to where you get to ask your favorite RCDD Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We pull back the curtain on consulting engineering in ICT, from how designs are born to how they survive construction. Paul shares career paths, tools like Revit, and why proactive thinking beats fire drills every time. • defining consulting engineering deliverables and value • mapping information flow between owner, architect, and engineer • career paths from field tech or college into design • proactive planning for phasing, pathways, and capacity • using brand standards and open specs to guide choices • debunking non-standard cable marketing like cat 6e • future proofing with spare capacity and pathway design • leveraging Revit and BIM for clash detection • balancing detailed notes with field readability • construction phase duties: RFIs, submittals, site visits • measuring success by RFIs, repeat work, and user reviews • advice for curious techs aiming at consulting roles If you’re watching this show on YouTube, would you mind leaving a five-star rating that and leave a comment? If you’re listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating? If the show is not a five-star rated show, reach out to me, tell me what I need to do to improve to make this a five-star rated show. You can buy me a cup of coffee. You can even schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call with me. Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We talk with Doug, a two‑time Cable Skills Challenge champion, about how disciplined practice, mental prep, and a service mindset led to back‑to‑back wins. He shares the drills, the mistakes, the fiber testing nerves, and why process beats polish when the clock is running. • recreating event stations with racks, 110 blocks, conduit, and 25‑pair  • judge feedback turned into checklists and step maps  • OLTS and OTDR anxiety, tool familiarity, and Softing impressions  • visualization before sleep and memorizing ITSIMM steps  • speed over cosmetic quality under timed rules  • staying calm to fix a wrong port termination  • awards night signals and realizing the overall win  • career impact, choosing to judge, and mentoring first‑timers  • why you should apply for 2027 and how to prepare  • family support and good luck charms that anchor focus “Would you mind leaving us a five‑star rating?”  “You can buy me a cup of coffee.”  “Like, follow, subscribe.”  “Applications start October or November—send your application in.” Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail We take a frank look at AI’s impact on low voltage and networking, from estimators and PMs to installers and engineers. Expect honest talk on what jobs change first, which skills pay off, and how to use AI without losing your edge. • near-term risk for estimators, PMs, customer support via AI efficiency • installers safer today yet exposed as robotics advances • standards, grounding, firestop, and transmission basics as career moat • predictive troubleshooting reducing break-fix firefights • labs, certifications, and layer 1 mastery still critical • AI-guided installs, image checks, and documentation at scale • blueprint takeoffs, BOMs, and bids improved by AI tools • shipping, firmware, and QA workflows automated to cut DOA • merging lines between installers and engineers under AI • five-year view of top-tier pros using agents and live audits • human communication as the standout skill Subscribe and share the show. Help us spread the real. Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us Fan Mail A candid walk inside the Cabling Innovators Awards reveals what really moves infrastructure forward: proof in the field, standards that prevent failures, and people who quietly solve hard problems. We honor fiber’s rise, copper’s purpose, fault managed power in use, and the character that keeps networks running. • Backstage moments and unfiltered voices • Fault managed power moving from theory to deployment • Fiber’s growth with copper’s ongoing role • Powering devices over distance with practical tools • Testing that validates fiber, copper and Wi‑Fi • Workforce gap and 3D interactive training • Standards work reducing failures and conflicts • Actual intelligence as the engine behind innovation • Winner shout‑outs and case studies that prove value If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content's being created If you listen to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating If you find value in this content, when you click on that QR code right there, you can buy me a cup of coffee You can even schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call with me after hours, of course Share it with somebody who hasn't been in that room Support the show Knowledge is power!  Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling .  Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected]  Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH #CBRCDD #RCDD