Making Waves

About Making Waves

Making Waves is a podcast by DAMM exploring the technology, people, and challenges shaping critical communications. From PMR radio to next-gen broadband, we talk with experts and frontline users to uncover the innovations and decisions that keep teams connected when it matters most.

Publisher

DAMM Cellular Systems

Category

technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

23 Sept 2025

Latest episode

6 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Beyond the drone: Building mission-ready unmanned systems

   What does it take to turn a drone into something you can actually depend on in a mission? Drones and other unmanned systems are advancing rapidly, but the platform itself is only part of the story. The real challenge begins when it has to operate as part of a wider mission - connected, resilient, secure and able to deliver the right information to the right people. In this episode of Making Waves, hosts Stuart Will and Lone Hansen are joined by Glenn Møller, Strategic Account Director Defence at NORTHCOM, and Kenneth Hubner, Group Chief Product Officer at NORTHCOM, to explore what it takes to move from an impressive unmanned platform to a genuine operational capability. The conversation goes beyond the drone itself. Glenn and Kenneth explain why connectivity may be the most underestimated part of an unmanned system, why no single network can meet every critical communications requirement, and how terrestrial networks, private 5G, PMR and satellite connectivity could increasingly work together as a network of networks. They also discuss what changes when you move from five drones to hundreds or thousands, why systems integration becomes increasingly important, and why the Nordic environment has become such a demanding testing ground for new defence and autonomy technologies. What you’ll discover in this conversation: Why buying a capable drone is very different from creating an operational capability. Why connectivity is one of the most underestimated parts of an unmanned system. How PMR, 5G, private networks and satellite connectivity can work together. What happens when you move from a handful of drones to large-scale fleets. Why system integration can matter as much as the platform itself. What the Nordic environment can teach us about building resilient unmanned systems. Why the future could see unmanned platforms operating as integrated fleets across air, land and sea. ABOUT: Glenn Møller | Strategic Account Director Defence, NORTHCOM With extensive experience in drones, unmanned systems and radio integration, Glenn works with customers and technology providers to turn individual platforms into operational capabilities. His perspective spans communications, integration and the practical realities of deploying unmanned systems in demanding environments. Kenneth Hubner | Group Chief Product Officer, NORTHCOM Kenneth leads NORTHCOM's product, solution and service portfolio across critical communications, working with government authorities, public safety organisations and companies operating critical infrastructure. He brings a broader perspective on connectivity, interoperability and the move towards integrated networks and operational capabilities. LEARN MORE www.northcomsolutions.com (http://www.northcomsolutions.com) More episodes: damcellular.com/podcast (https://www.google.com/search?q=https://damcellular.com/podcast)

2. 

   22 Sept 2026

   The cyber risk you can’t see

   What if the biggest cyber risk in your network is the one you can’t see? Mission-critical communications are no longer isolated. LMR is increasingly connected with LTE, 5G, cloud services, satellite connectivity, IT systems and connected devices. That creates new capabilities - but also new points of vulnerability. So what happens when you can no longer see everything connected to your network? In this episode of Making Waves, co-hosts Stuart Will and Lone Hansen sit down with Chris Carter, Chairman and CEO of Approyo, to connect enterprise cybersecurity thinking with the realities of mission-critical communications. In this conversation, we explore: The visibility gap: Why organisations may not have a security problem, but a visibility problem. Zero Trust in action: What “never trust, always verify” means in mission-critical networks. The convergence challenge: What happens when LMR connects with LTE, 5G and satellite. Cyber sovereignty and resilience: How cloud, geopolitics and multi-vendor environments change the security equation. What end users can do: Practical steps for public safety and critical infrastructure organisations. Can you truly protect what you can’t see? About: Chris Carter is Chairman and CEO of Approyo and a technology entrepreneur with more than 30 years of experience in enterprise technology, cloud, AI and cybersecurity. He has built his career around helping organisations navigate complex technology environments, from SAP and cloud infrastructure to digital transformation and cybersecurity. Through his work with organisations across more than 55 industries, Chris has developed a broad perspective on the risks and challenges that emerge as systems become increasingly connected and dependent on digital infrastructure. CONNECT & LEARN MORE Chris Carter on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-carter-885159/) More episodes: damcellular.com/podcast (https://www.google.com/search?q=https://damcellular.com/podcast)

3. 

   8 Sept 2026

   Trusted, resilient, connected: How Airbus is shaping the future of critical communications

   How do you modernise mission-critical communications without compromising the reliability people depend on? As broadband, AI, satellite connectivity, and new digital services reshape critical communications, organisations face a difficult balancing act: embracing innovation while maintaining the resilience and security that frontline users rely on every day. In this episode of Making Waves, hosts Stuart Will and Lone Hansen are joined by Olivier Koczan, Head of Airbus Public Safety and Security, for a conversation about the realities behind building and operating communication systems where failure is simply not an option. Drawing on decades of experience delivering some of the world's largest mission-critical networks, Olivier shares why successful transformation isn't just about adopting new technology. It's about understanding the people who depend on it, designing for resilience from day one, and knowing when evolution is more effective than revolution. The conversation explores why narrowband still has an important role to play, how organisations can bridge the gap to broadband, and what technologies are likely to define the next generation of mission-critical communications. What you'll discover in this conversation: Why reliability begins long before a network is deployed. The biggest misconception organisations have about next-generation communications. How narrowband and broadband are working together - not competing. Why successful digital transformation depends as much on people as technology. The emerging technologies Airbus believes will redefine resilience over the next decade. About Olivier Koczan | Head of Airbus Public Safety and Security Drawing on more than 40 years of experience delivering some of the world's largest mission-critical networks, Olivier explains why successful transformation isn't just about adopting new technology, Olivier Koczan leads Airbus Public Safety and Security, helping governments, emergency services, defence organisations, transport operators, utilities, and industrial users deploy resilient communication solutions around the world. Having witnessed the evolution from dedicated narrowband systems to today's hybrid broadband environments, he brings a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Learn more: https://www.criticalcommunications.airbus.com/en (https://url-scan.centerasecurity.com/url?l=3b537fd5543d11f1ac32005056a85f91mx14.c&k=46&h=1d33a83d633dbb43dd52ba0ffbb6d7da&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.criticalcommunications.airbus.com%2Fen)

4. 

   28 Jul 2026

   SPECIAL: CCW 2026 From the show floor

   Every year, Critical Communications World reveals where the industry is heading - not just through product launches, but through the conversations happening across the exhibition floor. In this special episode, recorded live at CCW 2026, we speak with experts from across the industry, including Airbus, Omdia and Sepura to capture the themes, challenges and opportunities shaped the conversations at this year's event. From broadband and mission-critical applications to interoperability, procurement and the future role of TETRA, you'll hear first-hand perspectives from the people helping shape the next generation of critical communications. In this episode Why the conversation around broadband is becoming more practical. How operators are approaching the transition to next-generation networks. Why TETRA remains a key part of the mission-critical ecosystem. The biggest trends experts expect to shape the coming years. Quick insights and observations from one of the industry's most important events. Whether you attended CCW or couldn't make it this year, this episode provides an overview of the discussions that mattered most - and what they could mean for the future of critical communications. Featuring Igor Vinogradoff, Airbus Luke Stanley, Sepura Ildefonso de la Cruz, Omdia Learn more Airbus (https://www.criticalcommunications.airbus.com/en) Sepura (https://sepura.com/) Omdia (https://omdia.tech.informa.com/)

5. 

   3 Jul 2026

   The decade that changed critical communications - Mladen Vratonjić on a transforming industry

   As he steps down as TCCA Chairman, Mladen Vratonjić reflects on one of the most transformative periods in the history of critical communications. (Disclaimer: Due to technical issues during recording, the audio quality is not as clear as intended). In this special conversation recorded at CCW 2026, Mladen shares how the industry evolved from dedicated TETRA networks to globally connected mission-critical ecosystems, the role TCCA played in bringing critical communications into 3GPP standards, and why resilience, interoperability and cooperation will shape the next decade. The discussion also explores cross-border communications, cybersecurity, AI beyond the hype, and why open standards remain essential for innovation and trust. Rather than looking back with nostalgia, Mladen offers his perspective on where the industry is heading - and why its mission has never been more important. In this episode: •  How critical communications has transformed over the past decade •  The journey from TETRA to broadband and global standards •  Why resilience and interoperability matter more than ever •  AI in mission-critical communications - what's real and what's just hype? •  The importance of cooperation in an increasingly connected world •  Mladen's reflections as he hands over the role of TCCA Chairman Whether you're involved in public safety, utilities, transport, defence or mission-critical technology, this episode offers valuable insight from one of the industry's most respected voices. About Mladen Vratonjić Mladen Vratonjić has dedicated decades to shaping the future of critical communications. As Chairman of the TCCA, he helped guide the industry through a period of significant transformation - from dedicated TETRA networks to today's interconnected mission-critical broadband ecosystem. Known for his commitment to open standards, collaboration and international cooperation, Mladen leaves behind a lasting legacy that continues to influence the future of mission-critical communications. TCCA website: https://tcca.info/ TCCA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tcca-critical-communications More episodes: https://dammcellular.com/podcast/

6. 

   9 Jun 2026

   Mission-critical broadband: Collaboration, AI, and the future of public safety

   Is public safety communication facing a technology problem, or a culture problem? The world of first-responder communication is undergoing its most radical transformation in decades. We are moving away from purely voice-centric, dedicated narrowband systems like TETRA and stepping into an information-centric, broadband-driven reality. But are our organisations, legal frameworks, and frontline cultures truly ready for it? In this episode of Making Waves, hosts Stuart Will and Lone Hansen sit down with industry veteran Tero Pesonen to preview the critical themes driving the upcoming Critical Communications World (CCW) event in London. Tero shares his visionary outlook on why AI is the ultimate companion to prevent next-gen operations from remaining "science fiction," how the roadmap to 6G must be built entirely on society-level trust, and why traditional TETRA still holds a vital, resilient place in the future of critical networks. Key talking points: The power of one voice: Why a niche sector must collaborate closely to ensure commercial 4G, 5G, and 6G technologies serve public safety needs. The three pillars of transition: The distinct hurdles that engineers, politicians, and frontline users must clear to successfully roll out nationwide broadband networks. AI as the enabler: How automated network resilience and sensor fusion are shifting the industry paradigm from being "technology-limited" to "culture-limited." The roadmap to 2036: A look at the emerging European Critical Communication System (EUCCS) and what it means for cross-border missions. The longevity of TETRA: Why narrowband isn't going anywhere anytime soon, and how it fits into a multi-technology future. About: Tero Pesonen, Vice-Chair of TCCA & Chair of the Critical Communications Broadband Group (CCBG) Tero Pesonen is a globally recognised leader in the critical communications sector. Having joined the industry in 1997 during the pioneering days of TETRA, Tero dedicated his early career to turning it into a globally interoperable, multi-vendor standard. Today, as the Vice-Chair of the Critical Communications Association (TCCA) and Chair of the Critical Communications Broadband Group (CCBG), he focuses on uniting the global value chain to successfully transition public safety, disaster relief, and critical enterprises into the next era of 3GPP-based broadband (4G, 5G, and 6G).

7. 

   26 May 2026

   TETRA today, tomorrow, and beyond: Inside the work of the TETRA Industry Group

   TETRA today, tomorrow, and beyond: Inside the work of the TETRA Industry Group In the era of next-gen broadband and LTE, it is easy to focus entirely on emerging tech. But on the front lines of heavy industry and public safety, perception rarely matches operational reality. This week on Making Waves, we step inside the global strategy rooms of the critical communications ecosystem to explore how private, dedicated networks are changing, adapting, and growing. Far from being a static technology, the international community is actively investing in new enhancements - integrating everything from cutting-edge cybersecurity protocols to artificial intelligence. What you’ll discover in this conversation: The 15-year horizon: Why global migration strategies are built on a bedrock of long-term hybrid coexistence. Defending the spectrum: How the industry is strategically addressing frequency spectrum pressures and navigating international ITU allocations to protect critical users. The total cost of ownership: How manufacturers are using AI to optimise power consumption and efficiency on the network side for decades to come. Untapped potential: Why standard telemetry, SCADA applications, and user location services mean you don't always need a broadband pipe to achieve smart network operations. "You have to pick up the best of every technology to build the best possible solution, not just limiting yourself to one." Timeline: 00:00 Pre-roll episode teaser 01:16 Show intro & guest introduction 02:16 Welcome & the role of the TIG 05:11 Market reality vs. perception 07:53 Standards, cyber threats & encryption 13:16 TETRA for industrial & dedicated users 17:55 The hybrid ecosystem: Complement over competition 20:48 Innovation & the strategic 10-year future 28:04 The quick-fire round 30:31 Wrap-up & sign-off Featured guest Francesco Pasquali | Chair of the TCCA TETRA Industry Group (TIG) Francesco has spent three decades shaping the critical communications landscape. Alongside his strategic leadership at Leonardo Cyber and Security Solutions and his seat on the TCCA Board, he chairs the TIG - the core business strategy group representing international industry leaders (including Leonardo, Motorola, Airbus, DAMM and Teltronic) to align standards, priorities, and end-user needs globally.

8. 

   10 Apr 2026

   Spotlight on Brazil : From designed need to delivery

   Making critical communications work in the real world. Designing a system is one thing; making it perform reliably under pressure is another. In this episode of Making Waves, we turn the spotlight on Brazil where vast geography and extreme industrial demands reveal what truly determines the success of mission-critical communications. Joining us is Matheus B. Silva, COO of Alcon Engenharia de Sistemas and Kofre Tecnologia, to share hard-won lessons from the intersection of engineering, business reality, and human trust. Drawing on his experience managing hundreds of thousands of users across Brazil’s most challenging environments, Matheus unpacks: Engineering decisions that impact long-term reliability – Why the infrastructure surrounding the tech is often the weakest link. Deployment and operational challenges – Navigating the "2-year rule" and the realities that only surface after go-live. Cost of ownership and lifecycle thinking – How high interest rates and operational scale are shifting the industry toward "Hardware as a Service." User adoption and trust – Why earning the confidence of the person holding the radio is as vital as the signal itself. Preparing systems for future evolution – How to bridge the "hybrid decade" between legacy LMR and the promise of LTE. This is a conversation packed with practical insights and a vital reminder that the real test of any communications system begins long after deployment. Timeline: 00:00:00 Key highlights 00:01:15 Introduction and guest welcome 00:02:18 Company overview: Alcon-Kofre & D1 Capital 00:03:35 The Brazilian context: Success & strategy 00:05:07 Engineering realities: Power & infrastructure 00:07:11 Business model: Hardware as a Service (HaaS) 00:14:52 The human element: Building user trust 00:17:42 The future: Hybrid networks & LTE 00:21:11 Rapid-fire round 00:27:10 Wrap-up & closing About: Matheus B. Silva is the COO of Alcon Engenharia de Sistemas and Kofre Tecnologia. A leader at the forefront of the "Hardware as a Service" (HaaS) model, he and his team support over 850,000 subscribers across 8,000 networks, delivering vital communication lifelines to the largest mining and energy players in Latin America.

9. 

   3 Mar 2026

   From data to decisions: AI in critical communications

   Discover how AI enhances critical communications, boosting situational awareness, decision support, and operational resilience while keeping humans in control and systems safe, secure, and trusted. Artificial intelligence is rapidly entering mission-critical environments - but how can it create real value for the people operating critical communications systems every day? In this episode, we speak with Paras Kulkarni and Walter Bensing from IrisNet about the practical application of AI in critical communications and mission-critical operations. Rather than exploring AI as a theoretical concept, the discussion focuses on operational impact: improving situational awareness, supporting human decision-making and strengthening resilience in environments where reliability and trust are essential. We explore how AI helps transform large volumes of visual data into actionable insight, how human-AI collaboration enhances safety, and why trust, ethics and transparency are fundamental when deploying AI in critical infrastructure. In this episode, we cover: • AI for situational awareness • Decision support systems • Human–AI interaction in mission-critical operations • Safety, trust and ethical AI deployment • AI in critical infrastructure environments • Operational resilience through intelligent systems A grounded conversation that cuts through the AI hype to explore where artificial intelligence genuinely delivers value in mission-critical communications, becomes a trusted operational tool - supporting people, strengthening systems and reinforcing operations where failure is not an option. Timeline: 00:03:14 Introduction: AI in critical communications 00:04:38 AI as decision support and situational awareness 00:07:08 Human control, trust and legal responsibility 00:09:54 Protecting personnel and critical infrastructure 00:11:48 How AI vision systems work in practice 00:12:50 Managing complexity and reducing false alarms 00:16:01 Integration, deployment and real-world use cases 00:17:13 Trust, security, compliance and ethics 00:23:15 Rapid-fire insights: myths, risks and opportunities 00:27:11 Future outlook and closing remarks About IrisNet IrisNet GmbH is a Germany-based AI company specialising in visual computing and real-time image and video analysis. Its technology enables organisations to interpret live video streams, detect events and support operational decisions while keeping data processing secure and aligned with strict privacy requirements. IrisNet focuses on practical AI solutions designed for real-world industrial, safety and critical communication use cases. Learn more about Irisnet: https://irisnet.de/

10. 

    18 Feb 2026

    Leading the mission: How TCCA shapes the future of critical communications worldwide

    The connectivity fabric: Balancing trusted voice with broadband TCCA CEO Kevin Graham explores the global evolution of mission-critical standards, the multi-decade longevity of TETRA, and the strategic roadmap for agencies transitioning to MCX and hybrid broadband environments. When the mission can’t fail, the technology can’t either. But as the world moves from traditional narrowband to data-rich broadband, how do we ensure that the "trusted voice" of a first responder never disappears? In this episode of Making Waves, we sit down with Kevin Graham to unpack the complex global shift in mission-critical communications. Kevin provides a masterclass on why open standards are the only way to navigate a future where LMR, LTE, and even satellite connectivity must coexist. We dive deep into: The "connectivity fabric": Why Kevin believes agencies shouldn't just look at hardware, but at a unified architecture that works across any network. TETRA’s long horizon: Why narrowband isn’t going away anytime soon and why industry leaders are still investing heavily in its R&D. The reality of MCX: Identifying the real "readiness gaps" in mission-critical broadband - from device ecosystems to user training. Global lessons: How regions like France, Finland, South Korea, and the US are pathfinding the transition to hybrid networks. Whether you are in public safety, transport, or utilities, this conversation offers a strategic roadmap for balancing the reliability of the past with the functionality of the future. Listen in for a high-impact look at the technology that keeps the world’s protectors connected. Timeline: 0:00 Intro: Welcome to Making Waves 01:01 Meet Kevin Graham: 30 years of critical comms 02:23 The global state: Narrowband vs. data-centric futures 05:27 Why open standards matter: Multi-vendor ecosystems 07:12 The predictability of interoperability: Lessons from TETRA 08:32 The reality of MCX: Training, workflows, and readiness 10:03 Defining the "connectivity fabric": Governance & architecture 11:29 Global trends: Pathfinding in Korea, Finland, and the US 14:54 Spectrum: Securing the "oxygen" for mission-critical data 18:38 TETRA's longevity: Why industry is still investing in R&D 22:04 Sustainability & scale: Partnering with mobile operators 23:43 Successes & gaps: Lessons from FirstNet and others 27:07 Human-centric Tech: Adapting workflows for MCX 29:54 Strategic advice: A roadmap for national agencies 31:19 The TCCA community: Collaboration over competition 32:50 Upcoming 2026 events: CCW, BAPCO, and more 35:10 Episode recap: The path to a harmonised future About the guest With over 30 years of international experience, Kevin Graham is a global authority on mission-critical systems. As the CEO of TCCA, he leads the world’s premier association for standardised critical communications. Kevin has held senior engineering and executive roles across the APAC region, the USA, and Europe, playing a pivotal role in driving the open standards that secure public safety, transport, and utilities worldwide. His expertise bridges the gap between the reliable radio networks of today and the 5G and satellite innovations of tomorrow. Learn more about The Critical Communications Association - TCCA (https://tcca.info/) Links: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DammVideoChannel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/damm-cellular-systems

11. 

    6 Jan 2026

    Bridging the future: Modernising critical comms in energy infrastructure

    Keeping a national energy network connected 24/7 leaves no room for downtime – and no room for short-term thinking. In this episode of Making Waves, we explore how large energy operators can modernise mission-critical communications without disrupting operations, safety or continuity. Joined by Witchukorn Naewwong (JC), Founder and Team Principal at Seanet Asia, this conversation goes beyond technology upgrades. It examines the strategic decisions behind transforming legacy radio networks into resilient, future-ready communication platforms across Thailand’s oil and gas sector. What does true modernisation look like when systems must operate continuously for decades? And how can operators evolve without introducing new risks? Drawing on real-world experience from pipeline networks and gas separation plants, JC shares a practitioner’s view on resilience, decentralisation and long-term sustainability. Listen in to discover: Why voice remains the foundation of mission-critical operations How phased migration enables transformation without downtime Decentralised architectures and the elimination of single points of failure Bridging legacy and new systems to protect long-term investments Energy efficiency and sustainability as strategic design criteria Why the future of critical communications is hybrid by design This is not just a technical discussion. It’s a real-world look at how large industrial operators modernise with confidence, keeping people safe today while building a foundation for the next decade. Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 02:45 Understanding the challenge 05:58 Bridging with the future 08:47 Where technology meets sustainability 10:42 Project now and looking ahead 15:41 Wrap-up About the guest Witchukorn Naewwong (JC) is the Founder and Team Principal at Seanet Asia, leading its mission-critical communications business. With years of hands-on experience supporting national energy and industrial operators in Thailand, JC helps organisations design and deploy communication systems that are resilient, secure and adaptable. His work focuses on long-term platform thinking – enabling operators to modernise safely while remaining ready for whatever comes next. Learn more about Seanet Asia: https://www.seanetasia.com/en Links: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DammVideoChannel (https://www.youtube.com/@DammVideoChannel) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/damm-cellular-systems

12. 

    2 Dec 2025

    Bridging the gap: Taking a look at the MCX journey with Peter Clemons

    Keeping critical communications networks future-ready is no simple task. In this episode, we speak with Peter Clemons, founder of Quixoticity and a leading voice in mission-critical communications, about the challenges, timelines, and innovations shaping MCX adoption worldwide. What does it take to migrate from trusted PMR systems like TETRA to next-generation MCX technologies while keeping public safety connected? We explore the evolving landscape of mission-critical broadband with Peter, who shares insights from three decades of experience driving adoption, standards, and interoperability. From migration timelines and spectrum strategy to open standards and operational challenges, we unpack the factors influencing the future of critical communications. Listen in to discover: The role of MCX in modern public safety networks Global migration timelines and regional adoption trends How open standards and interoperability unlock innovation Balancing cost, resilience, and technological evolution Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 04:26 The birth of MCX 06:20 Searching for new ground 08:46 From public safety to new verticals 10:46 Clear communications are life critical 12:39 Moveable MCX timelines 15:00 Restrictive supply and service models 18:36 Interoperability is the key 21:22 One-to-many: the essence of critical communications 23:53 The challenges of migration 26:13 Open standards will unlock potential 28:27 Where cost is no barrier 31:20 Active partnerships 33:55 Indexing trends This isn’t just a technical conversation. It’s an insider view of the people, policies, and strategic decisions shaping mission-critical communications today and for the decades ahead. Peter Clemons has 30 years’ experience in professional mobile radio and broadband critical communications. As founder of Quixoticity, he advises on MCX adoption, system integration, and international standards. Peter has worked across Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, contributing to TETRA success stories and driving the evolution toward 3GPP-based mission-critical services. Follow Peter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-clemons-041845/ Links: https://www.linkedin.com/company/damm-cellular-systems (https://www.linkedin.com/company/damm-cellular-systems) Youtube: https://youtu.be/3nWcLcof7Rs

13. 

    18 Nov 2025

    Voice on demand: Insights on strategy for mission-critical networks

    In critical communications, lives and operations depend on networks that never fail. In this episode, Terence Ledger shares insider insights on what it takes to deliver 99.999% uptime, keep users connected across sectors from public safety to mining, and prepare for the transition to hybrid and broadband networks. Hear why even the smallest details - like SIM management - can make or break a mission-critical system, and what lessons global deployments, including in the Middle East, reveal about resilience, security, and user trust. Listen in to discover: How to build networks that users can rely on, anywhere in the world The design choices that impact uptime and operational effectiveness Preparing organisations for hybrid and broadband adoption Sustainability and global support in critical communications This isn’t just about technology, it’s about people, decisions, and systems that keep mission-critical communications running when it matters most. Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 03:13 Market signals and revenue strategy 11:40 Product evolution and customer benefit 16:49 Global reach & diverse sectors 20:47 Innovation, sustainability & brand trust 28:45 Vision & industry outlook 33:22 Wrap-up Terence Ledger is the Regional Director, APAC, Middle East and Africa at Sepura. He has nearly 15 years of experience shaping critical communications worldwide. His perspective blends strategic insight, operational expertise, and a deep focus on user-centric, reliable, and secure network solutions.

14. 

    4 Nov 2025

    High stakes, no room for error: Critical comms at global sporting events

    We're going behind the scenes of some of the world's biggest sporting events, where a dropped call isn't just annoying, it could be dangerous. In this episode, we talk with John Mantas, Team Lead Account Manager for Motorsports and Global Events at Riedel. With experience from major Summer and Winter Games as well as football World Cups, John and his colleagues design and deliver communication systems that simply cannot fail under extreme pressure, where precision and reliability are everything. The pressure of performance: Delivering full availability for half a billion viewers What does it truly take to deploy a mission-critical communication network for a global event with up to half a billion viewers? We dive into the massive logistical and technical challenge of temporary, high-stakes deployments. John reveals the intense, two-year planning cycles, the ever-changing international regulations, and the constant battle against signal interference and last-minute changes. From managing frequency-dense environments and securing temporary networks to ensuring complete redundancy in everything from power to antennas, we unpack the leadership and engineering required to keep thousands of staff - from race control to medical teams, safely connected. Listen in to discover: The four pillars of planning, including international regulations and worst-case scenario calculations. Why redundancy is the key factor when "failure is not an option." How teams mitigate threats ranging from cyberattacks to RF interference in crowded venues. The unique challenges of balancing client cost pressures with non-negotiable safety requirements. Real-world lessons and advice for designing your first event-based critical comms deployment. This isn't just a technical deep dive. It’s a front-row look at the high-stakes world where flawless communication ensures both a great show and the safety of everyone involved. John’s privileged insider perspective on delivering full availability makes for compelling listening. Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 02:31 The scope & pressure of global events 08:52 Reliability & environmental challenges 13:40 Security, compliance & interoperability 17:27 Cost, innovation & client expectations 21:51 Lessons, stories & advice 26:08 Wrap-Up John Mantas is the Team Lead Account Manager for Motorsports and Global Events at Riedel. He specialises in designing and implementing professional communications solutions for large-scale, high-visibility events, focusing on absolute reliability and resilience under pressure.

15. 

    21 Oct 2025

    Global trends: Signals you can't ignore

    The landscape of mission-critical communication is shifting faster than ever. In this episode, we gain a rare, data-driven perspective with two of the industry’s top analysts from Omdia: Ildefonso De La Cruz Morales (Senior Principal Analyst - Industrial & Government Critical Communication) and Paul Bremner (Principal Analyst, Integrated Tech). This episode is a big-picture look at where the critical communications industry is heading - from PMR/LMR to broadband, from fragmented systems to integrated platforms, and from hardware sales to service models. A massive transformation is underway, driven by digitalisation and billions in investment. We tackle the macro trends, the tough questions about PMR vs. hybrid systems, the urgency of cybersecurity and the provocative role of artificial intelligence in first responder operations. Paul and Alfonso share insights from their worldwide research, providing actionable intelligence on where to invest, what to prioritise, and how to avoid being left behind. With two of the industry’s top analysts from Omdia, we’ll unpack global shifts, investment trends, technology adoption, and real-world market friction in PMR and broadband communications. Listen in to discover: Emerging tech and vendor trends: The shift to platform-based control rooms and the dual threat/promise of artificial intelligence (including deepfakes). Global investment patterns and regional differences: Analysis of the billions of dollars shaping the ecosystem and navigating key adoption barriers. Pain points in system deployment, integration, and resilience: Addressing security with a secure-by-design approach that protects the supply chain and planning for the "1% of cases" that demand emergency communications. The role of government, policy, and standards in shaping outcomes: Practical advice for buyers on prioritising standards and flexibility to ensure long-term network growth. This isn’t just a technical deep dive. It’s a front-row look at the data, policies, and decisions that are defining the next decade of critical communications. The privileged insider perspective from Omdia’s leading experts makes compelling listening. Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 03:55 The big picture 11:20 Reliability market realities and friction points 22:15 Investment, innovation & cost of ownership 30:31 Security, regulation & resilience 36:13 Looking ahead 44:20 Wrap-up About the guests: Ildefonso De La Cruz Morales is a Senior Principal Analyst in Omdia’s Critical Communications practice. He specializes in the broadband ecosystem, focusing on next-generation networks, 5G, and the global adoption of mission-critical communication technologies across public safety and enterprise verticals. Paul Bremner is a Principal Analyst in the critical communications group at Omdia, serving as the lead analyst for the Command and Control Rooms Intelligence Service. Paul holds a bachelor's degree in physics and has over a decade of experience analyzing security systems, safe cities, and the evolving public safety technology landscape. Crit Comms Circle podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/omdia-crit-comms-circle/id1598907968 (https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/omdia-crit-comms-circle/id1598907968) https://open.spotify.com/show/2QeVNTXwfQhtORnxj2lEzJ (https://open.spotify.com/show/2QeVNTXwfQhtORnxj2lEzJ)

16. 

    7 Oct 2025

    Built to perform: Today and the future of mission-critical devices

    When communications can’t fail, performance is everything. In this episode, we sit down with Peter Hudson, Chief Technology Officer of Sepura, to explore what it really takes to design, build, and support mission-critical devices that keep people connected when it matters most. From the enduring value of TETRA technology to the new frontiers of hybrid systems, sustainability, and user-driven innovation, Peter brings a manufacturer’s perspective to the realities of critical communications where reliability, resilience, and innovation meet. We dive into the engineering and operational challenges behind the world’s toughest radios, the trade-offs between cost and performance, and how manufacturers like Sepura are responding to evolving user expectations, environmental pressures, and shifting market dynamics. Whether you’re in the public or private sector, part of the engineering community, or leading technology strategy, this episode offers an insider look at the people, products, and philosophies shaping the next generation of mission-critical devices. Listen in to discover: What today’s users expect from mission-critical radios How to balance performance, cost, and environmental standards The real future of TETRA and hybrid systems Approaches to interoperability and total cost of ownership Innovation in ruggedised technology and sustainable product design This isn’t just a technical deep dive, it’s a conversation about purpose-built performance, user trust, and the evolving ecosystem that keeps mission-critical communications strong both today and into the future. Peter's privileged insider perspective makes compelling listening. We hope you will enjoy the episode. Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 03:00 The role of the manufacturer 09:57 Reliability, cost, and innovation 17:01 Environmental and operational challenges 23:35 TETRA’s future and ecosystem thinking 37:02 Leadership and outlook 40:37 Wrap-up Peter Hudson is the Chief Technology Officer at Sepura, a global leader in TETRA communications solutions. With extensive experience in operations, engineering, and product strategy, Peter oversees the delivery of rugged, secure, and high-performance radios used by public safety, transport, and industrial organisations worldwide. His perspective bridges technology and operations ensuring that Sepura’s products meet the uncompromising demands of users on the front line.

17. 

    30 Sept 2025

    Talking wind with Orsted: Keeping the turbines running

    Keeping a multi-billion-euro offshore wind operation connected is no small task. In this episode, we speak with Michael Mikkelsen, Head of SCADA and Communication Systems at Ørsted, about the critical role of mission-critical communications in powering the world’s largest offshore wind producer. What does it take to maintain safe, reliable and efficient energy production when your infrastructure is remote, exposed to extreme conditions, and expected to operate for decades? We dive into Ørsted’s communications strategy to uncover how TETRA and LTE keep turbines, substations and control rooms seamlessly linked, while balancing cost, resilience and environmental goals. From harsh offshore environments and hybrid network design to long-term cost management and sustainability, Michael shares the insights and lessons behind Ørsted’s approach to building a future-proof critical communications network. Listen in to discover: Comms in complex, safety-critical environments Offshore radio infrastructure and hybrid network architecture Resilience, system uptime, and risk mitigation Managing costs in long-term industrial deployments Sustainability and the future of green communications This isn’t just a technical deep dive. It’s a rare look inside one of the world’s most advanced renewable energy operations - and the invisible systems that keep it running. Michael's privileged insider perspective makes compelling listening. We hope you will enjoy the episode. Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 03:25 Comms in energy operations 08:34  Resilience in harsh environments 18:01 Cost, efficiency & total ownership 23:29  Sustainability and comms strategy 30:47 Lessons, leadership & future direction 38:15 Wrap-up Michael Mikkelsen is Head of SCADA and Communication Systems at Ørsted, the world’s largest offshore wind producer. With more than a decade of experience at Ørsted—and several years before that as a contractor delivering early-stage communication systems for the company’s first large offshore wind farms—Michael has been at the forefront of building and scaling mission-critical radio networks for renewable energy operations. Starting as a radio engineer in 2015 and becoming Head of Radio Communications in 2018, he has led the development of robust TETRA and LTE solutions to support Ørsted’s rapidly expanding global infrastructure. Today, he oversees the broader integration of SCADA and communications, ensuring safe, reliable and efficient operations across some of the world’s most challenging environments.

18. 

    23 Sept 2025

    Breaking the silos: Keeping emergency services connected

    Keeping the UK’s emergency services connected is a complex and critical task. In this episode, we speak with Duncan Swan, COO of British APCO, about the challenges, priorities, and leadership driving public safety communications today - and into the future. What does it take to keep the UK’s emergency services connected when lives are on the line? We dive into the critical communications landscape of UK public safety with British APCO. Duncan shares how BAPCO drives collaboration and policy clarity while tackling the ongoing transformation from PMR to hybrid and broadband systems. From interoperability and cost pressures to digital transition and risk, we unpack the leadership challenges shaping the future of public safety. Listen in to discover: The mission and influence of British APCO National priorities for public safety communications How user voices guide system evolution The balance of cost, resilience, and technology adoption This isn’t just a technical deep dive. It’s a front-row look at the people, policies and decisions that keep public safety communications strong—today and for the future. Duncan's privileged insider perspective makes compelling listening. Duncan Swan has over 40 years’ experience of public safety technology and joined British APCO as COO in 2022. His role includes providing strategic and technical input into mobile communications and associated technologies for public safety organisations in the UK. In 2005 he was awarded the inaugural Gareth Wilkinson Memorial Award “in recognition and appreciation of outstanding leadership and contribution to the development of BAPCO, and personal commitment to the ideals and purpose of the Association”. He is a regular conference speaker, contributor and editorial adviser to industry journals, a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering & Technology and a Member of the Institute of Directors. Explore British APCO (https://www.bapco.org.uk/)

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