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Fast, affordable Internet access for all.
Community Broadband Bits Podcast
Community Broadband Bits is a weekly audio show hosted by Community Broadband Networks Initiative Director Christopher Mitchell featuring interviews with people building community networks or otherwise involved with Internet policy. You can listen to episodes below or download via Apple, Google, or Spotify. Alternatively if you know what to do with it, copy the feed here.
We also produce a semi-regular video show called Connect This! that has its own site. Find other podcasts from ILSR here.
We also have an index of all episodes and links to transcripts. Keep up with new developments by subscribing to our one-email-per-week list sharing new stories and resources. We’d love to hear your feedback! Email us.
DV Fiber and Vermont’s Bold Broadband Model - Episode 625 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris chats with Steven John of DV Fiber to explore how Vermont’s Communications Union Districts are transforming broadband access in rural areas. Learn how this unique public-private model is connecting communities, overcoming challenges, and paving the way for universal, high-speed Internet.
Internet at $25: How Pharr is Making It Work - Episode 624 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris checks in with Jose Pena, IT Director for the City of Pharr, Texas, to explore their groundbreaking municipal fiber network. Discover how Pharr has achieved a 50% take rate, saved residents millions annually, and launched digital equity initiatives that include free laptops and digital literacy training.
How U.S. Courts Are Reshaping Broadband Access - Episode 623 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Andy Schwartzman from the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society to discuss how recent U.S. Court rulings are reshaping FCC authority and broadband policy. They explore the implications for universal broadband access, including the challenges around funding, school bus Wi-Fi, and net neutrality regulations.
Kendall County’s Broadband Ambition - Episode 622 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris talks with Christina Burns and Zach Bachmann about Kendall County’s innovative project to expand Internet access through public-private partnerships and community-driven solutions. Discover how this fast-growing Illinois county is balancing urban and rural needs with sustainable infrastructure planning and state-supported funding.
Starlink, Caps, and Consumer Concerns - Episode 621 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Karl Bode dive into the challenges of rural broadband, exploring why Starlink isn’t a cure-all, the impact of broadband caps, and the FCC’s push for greater pricing transparency. Tune in to hear how these issues affect affordability and why consumer-focused broadband policies matter more than ever.
Revisiting the Fight for Community Broadband and Public Networks - Episode 620 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this special episode of the podcast, we revisit a conversation between Chris and Gigi Sohn, Executive Director of the American Association for Public Broadband, discussing the growing movement for community broadband. They dive into efforts to expand local networks, the challenges posed by incumbents, and the pivotal role of state and local governments in shaping broadband policy.
Recent Broadband News Roundup - Episode 619 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris and the CBN team discusses the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in Asheville, the importance of resilient infrastructure, and the controversy surrounding the FCC’s decision on Starlink’s rural broadband funding. Plus, they highlight new broadband initiatives in South Central LA and Vermont’s Fiber Technician Training Program.
ISPs and Copyright Infringement: The Legal Battle Over Liability - Episode 618 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Professor Alfred Yen discuss a major legal case that could hold Internet Service Providers (ISPs) accountable for their subscribers' copyright infringement. They dive into the potential consequences for ISPs, Internet users, and critical services if ISPs are forced to cut off access due to illegal downloading.
Exploring BEAD Blueprints and Tribal Broadband Initiatives - Episode 617 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by colleagues Ry Marcattilio and Jessica Auer to explore the latest BEAD blueprints and the role of low-cost broadband plans in advancing digital equity. They also dive into the progress of tribal broadband initiatives and discuss the challenges of building affordable, community-driven networks.
Beyond the Pivot: Fort Collins Connexion's Latest Milestones - Episode 616 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast
In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down again with Chad Crager, Executive Director of Fort Collins Connexion, to discuss how Fort Collins is leading the way in municipal broadband by leveraging underground infrastructure and innovative policies. They also highlight their efforts to promote digital equity, expand services to underserved communities, and maintain long-term sustainability while competing with incumbents.