The Why?
Following up on The What, this second episode of Connected Manitoba delves into The Why—explaining why this podcast exists, why rural connectivity is essential, and why communities are stepping up where the system falls short.
Hosts Joel Templeman and Dr. Wayne Kelly are joined by rural broadband champions Dr. Sarah Breen and Dr. Ashleigh Weeden to explore the motivations behind the research and the podcast. Together, they unpack the concept of the digital divide—not just as a gap in internet access, but as a mirror of deeper social, economic, and policy inequities.
From community innovation and frustration with telecom policy, to rural rights and the push for digital inclusion, this episode sets the philosophical and practical foundation for the series. It’s thoughtful, urgent, and grounded in the belief that where you live shouldn’t determine whether you’re connected.