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Bulk Internet, MDUs, and the Business Case for Connected Communities

Chris Whitaker talks with Braydon Manley, head of revenue at Conservice Connectivity Solutions, about bulk internet in multi dwelling units, where it makes business sense, and how technology advisors can uncover new revenue opportunities. They also dig into resident support, the conversion from retail internet to bulk setups, and why the resident experience matters more than ever.

Key topics
In this episode: Chris introduces the MDU connectivity space and frames bulk internet as a revenue opportunity for technologists and tech advisors.
Braydon Manley shares his background, from music and startup work in Utah to becoming interested in connected communities and bulk internet.
Braydon describes learning the MDU business from the ground up and why the space feels both established and constantly evolving.

Chris and Braydon compare endurance sports to business, including Braydon’s first Boulder 70.3 triathlon and the lesson that success comes from adapting when the plan changes.
In this episode: Conservice Connectivity Solutions sits between providers, property owners, site teams, and residents to help convert retail internet setups into bulk internet programs.

Braydon explains why many owners underestimate the complexity of converting existing properties and why successful launches depend on resident enrollment, support, and clear benefit to the resident.

The difference between retail and bulk internet is clarified: retail means residents set up and pay their own service, while bulk is included in rent or as an amenity.
In this episode: bulk internet makes the most sense when it creates value for both sides - revenue and operational simplicity for owners, and better pricing, convenience, and hands off service for residents.

Chris and Braydon discuss resident support ownership, and Braydon says their team handles tier one issues directly when they service a property.
Technology advisors are encouraged to ask a simple but powerful question: what is your technology strategy across the portfolio?
Market trends discussed include slower new development, flat rents, stronger demand for revenue streams, and a growing focus on retail to bulk conversions done the right way.

Braydon notes that senior living communities and Airbnb style condo ownership can both be strong fits when the connectivity experience needs to be reliable and easy.

Timestamps
00:00 - Why MDU connectivity is a revenue opportunity

01:11 - Braydon Manley’s path from music and startups to bulk internet

05:07 - Training for Boulder 70.3 and learning to adapt when the plan changes

11:09 - The decision to keep going in the swim instead of quitting

13:08 - Where Conservice Connectivity Solutions fits in the MDU ecosystem

16:34 - When bulk internet makes business sense for owners and residents

19:28 - Who owns the problem when a resident cannot get online

21:25 - How residents are told who to contact for support

23:47 - Questions technology advisors should ask property owners

26:23 - New development slowdown and the rise of retail to bulk conversions

33:21 - What properties are not a good fit, and why affordable housing needs care

35:54 - Senior living communities and why they can be a strong fit

38:20 - Airbnb and vacation condo properties as emerging opportunities

40:00 - Why this industry is relationship driven and worth getting into

41:34 - Braydon’s running shoe picks and a quick Lightning Round

42:46 - Closing thoughts and invitation to continue the conversation

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