Archaeology, Punk Rock & TeleGeography - Patrick Christian | Coffee Pump (E103)

Konnichiwa Fam, On E103, I sit down with Patrick Christian, Senior Manager at TeleGeography, to talk about one of the most unusual career journeys we've had on the podcast. Before spending more than two decades covering the global telecommunications industry, Patrick studied archaeology, worked on excavation sites, lived in France and the United States, and spent time in the punk rock scene before eventually finding his way into the world of internet infrastructure. We talk about: • Growing up in Arizona and spending time in France • Studying archaeology and working on excavation sites • Punk rock culture, music, and Patrick's younger years • How he ended up at TeleGeography • The early days of the internet and international telecommunications • The rise of submarine cables and global connectivity • Cloud computing and how it transformed the industry • AI, hyperscalers, GPU infrastructure, and the next wave of technology investment • Why Africa may not see major AI deployments in the near term • The future of data centres, connectivity, and internet infrastructure • Starlink, satellite connectivity, and the changing telecom landscape • The role Africa will play in the next phase of digital growth We also get into Route 66, travel, the evolution of mobile phones, BlackBerry Messenger, conference culture, movies, conspiracy theories, and much more. Hope you enjoy the episode. Best, Team Coffee Pump Join Our Membership and get access to videos early: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkZKGnWZWb-S9wJdz9IGDTw/join Find Patrick Christian: - LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-christian-83053086/ - Connect with him: https://resources.telegeography.com/author/patrick-christian - TeleGeography: https://www2.telegeography.com Find our host Sajid Vayani: - Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sajvayani Coffee Pump Spotify, Apple and Socials: - Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sajvayani Disclaimer: The content of The Coffee Pump Podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Coffee Pump Podcast, its affiliates, or any associated entities. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be construed as professional advice in any field, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or business matters. Any statements made about businesses, products, or individuals are based on personal experiences and opinions and are not meant to be taken as fact or a definitive review. The Coffee Pump Podcast does not assume any liability for the accuracy, completeness, or consequences of using the information discussed. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions, conduct their own research, and seek professional guidance where appropriate. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that The Coffee Pump Podcast is not responsible for any actions or decisions made based on the content provided. 0:00 - Intro 1:10 - Wes Anderson Films 3:55 - How Saj & Patrick Met , Patrick's Upbringing & Education 8:57 - Patrick's Archeology Background 15:26 - UFO Files & Conspiracy Theories 17:20 - Punk Rock Music Era 20:26 - Patrick's Career Pivot From Archeology to Tele Geography 27:38 - Why Most Americans Don't Use What's App 29:57 - Patrick's Job Description In Tele Geography Space Over Time 34:54 - Cloud / Cloud Services Take Off 41:06 - Rise Of AI Companies , Neo Clouds, AI Data Centers , GPUaaS 56:10 - Kenyan Government Plan To Work With Microsoft 57:55 - Leo Technology & Connectivity 1:03:37 - Data Centers In Space & Its Perception 1:05:53 - AfPIF 2026, Ebola & Travel Restrictions 1:06:43 - Patrick Moving To Japan , Culture Shock , Anime, Nature & Perfect Days Movie 1:15:09 - Japanese Cuisine & Food Quality 1:17:59 - Best Places To Visit In Japan 1:25:18 - Patrick's Future Plans 1:27:28 - Hiked Plane Ticket Prices Over Geo - Politics 1:29:07 - Outro