Connected for Good: John-Michael Cortez on Digital Equity and the Future of Broadband Access

The Caring Economy with Toby Usnik

In this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with John-Michael Cortez, Head of Government and Community Affairs at GFiber (Google Fiber). With experience spanning local government, economic development, and grassroots community organizing, John-Michael shares why broadband access is no longer a luxury — it's a civil right.

From closing the digital divide to forming strategic public-private partnerships, this episode dives into how GFiber is working to make high-speed internet accessible for underserved communities across Texas, Tennessee, and Alabama. Learn why digital equity is central to education, healthcare, employment, and civic participation — and what must change to make access more inclusive and equitable.

Tune in to explore:

• Why broadband is a foundational equity issue

• How corporations can drive social impact through infrastructure

• What meaningful community engagement looks like in practice

If you care about equity, innovation, or the future of inclusive progress — this conversation is a must-listen.

#DigitalEquity #BroadbandForAll #JohnMichaelCortez #TheCaringEconomy #GFiber #CivicLeadership #TechForGood