In this episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by Professor Alfred Yen from Boston College Law School to discuss a pivotal case involving Cox Communications and copyright infringement. 

The conversation centers on whether Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should be held responsible when their subscribers engage in illegal downloading of music.

They explore the complex legal questions surrounding ISP liability, the potential consequences for smaller ISPs, and how this could reshape the relationship between copyright holders and service providers. 

Professor Yen provides insight into the impact this case could have on Internet users and ISPs, especially as the music industry seeks to make ISPs financially accountable for their subscribers' actions.

The episode also touches on broader concerns about how cutting off Internet access could affect critical services like healthcare and business operations, making this a pressing issue with far-reaching implications.

This show is 33 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by colleagues Ry Marcattilio and Jessica Auer to discuss the latest developments in broadband policy. The team delves into the BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) program, highlighting recent blueprints that offer insights into low-cost plan requirements for ISPs, state-driven policies, and the challenges of implementing affordable broadband solutions across diverse communities.

Jess shares her work on tribal broadband networks, providing updates on the significant progress made by Native American tribes in establishing and operating their own networks. The conversation also touches on the complexities of rate regulation, the varying approaches states have taken to low-cost plans, and the implications for rural and tribal communities.

Tune in to hear about innovative approaches, including open-access networks, and a growing focus on equitable internet access for underserved communities. 

This show is 31 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down once again with Chad Crager, Executive Director of Fort Collins Connexion, to discuss the city's progress in developing a sustainable municipal broadband network. Chad shares exciting updates, including reaching 21,000 subscribers and serving 80,000 premises, while highlighting the city's innovative approach to broadband, such as leveraging underground power infrastructure and implementing dig-once policies.

Chad also emphasizes Fort Collins' commitment to digital equity, explaining efforts to serve mobile home parks, the challenges of wiring such communities, and the introduction of Spanish-speaking staff to reach underserved populations. The discussion touches on the city's long-term sustainability plans, business model, and collaboration with local government, ensuring that Fort Collins Connexion remains financially resilient while fostering digital inclusion for all residents.

Tune in for an insightful look at how Fort Collins is balancing competition with incumbents, expanding broadband access, and setting an example for other cities looking to invest in community broadband.

This show is 30 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Sean discuss various broadband initiatives and community networks across the United States. The conversation kicks off with updates on California’s Fiber Fund Account and the inclusion of Tribal Communities in broadband projects. 

They both highlight the Paul Bunyan Cooperative’s innovative approach to broadband, including Capital Credit distributions to its members and its impact on local communities. They also explore the potential challenges of spending remaining Federal Rescue Plan Funds before key deadlines and the importance of investing in broadband infrastructure. 

Finally, the episode delves into Harrison County’s partnership with Etex Communications and the release of ILSR’s updated Community Networks Map, which tracks municipal and cooperative broadband projects nationwide. This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of community broadband and the exciting possibilities it offers.

This show is 34 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Monique Tate and Raul Enriquez, co-directors of Community Tech New York (CTNY), to explore how grassroots efforts are transforming digital equity. CTNY is dedicated to creating community-centered solutions for digital justice, with a focus on engaging and empowering local residents.

Monique and Raul discuss the origins and evolution of CTNY, emphasizing their commitment to breaking down the barriers of technology through hands-on training and education. A key highlight of the conversation is the Portable Network Kit (PNK), a versatile tool designed to help communities build their own local networks. They delve into how the PNK serves as both an educational resource and a practical solution for emergency preparedness, allowing communities to maintain connectivity even in times of crisis.

Throughout the episode, they also touch on the broader implications of digital inclusion, from preserving cultural legacies to fostering economic and political empowerment. Whether it's using technology to archive community histories or ensuring that neighborhoods have the tools they need to stay connected during disasters, CTNY is at the forefront of building resilient, informed, and connected communities.

This show is 40 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Christy Batts, Chief Broadband Officer at CDE Lightband, and Amanda Cherry, Customer Experience Supervisor, to explore the exciting developments in Clarksville's municipal broadband network. They discuss the town's transition from Active Ethernet to XGS-PON, a significant upgrade that promises multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds and increased efficiency. 

Christy and Amanda share insights into the challenges of upgrading 30,000 customers while maintaining high service standards and the ongoing efforts to future-proof Clarksville's network. They also delve into the unique aspects of operating in a military town, the importance of underground infrastructure in new developments, and the innovative use of AI for customer service training. 

Tune in to learn how Clarksville is setting a new standard for municipal broadband and ensuring a robust, reliable service for years to come.

This show is 32 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris speaks with Stephanie Becken, the Broadband Manager for the City of Superior, Wisconsin. Stephanie shares her journey from moving to Superior to becoming a key figure in the Connect Superior initiative, a project aimed at improving broadband access in the city and surrounding areas.

They discuss the unique qualities of Superior, a city of 26,000 people located on the shores of Lake Superior, and the challenges and opportunities that come with expanding broadband in a region with such a large footprint. Stephanie explains the phased approach to building an open access fiber network, the city's recent formation of a broadband utility, and the collaboration with local and regional service providers.

The conversation also touches on the importance of connectivity for local businesses, residents, and essential services, and the excitement surrounding the initial phase of fiber installation. Stephanie expresses her enthusiasm for the project's potential to transform the community and looks forward to a future where reliable, high-quality internet is the norm for all Superior residents.

Tune in to hear more about this inspiring local initiative and the drive to bring top-notch connectivity to the people of Superior.

This show is 24 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris engages in a discussion with Lindsey Skolnik, Project Manager for the California Alliance for Digital Equity (CADE). They delve into the critical efforts of CADE to close the digital divide in California, highlighting legislative and regulatory priorities aimed at achieving digital equity.

Lindsey shares the origins and mission of CADE, formed in May 2022 to advocate for digital equity at the state level. They discuss key initiatives such as the Middle Mile and Last Mile projects, Senate Bill 156, and the strategic allocation of $6 billion towards broadband infrastructure.

The conversation also covers the groundbreaking digital discrimination legislation making its way through the California legislature, focusing on the disparate impact standard and the importance of addressing outcomes over intent. Lindsey explains the significant progress of Assembly Bill 239 and the collaborative efforts with various partners to combat digital discrimination.

Furthermore, they explore the impact of the Middle Mile Broadband Initiative, its budget challenges, and the latest updates on the project's progress. The discussion also touches on the Federal Funding Account's role in supporting new broadband investments, with insights into the application process and awarded projects.

Join us as we unpack the complexities and triumphs of advancing digital equity in California, aiming to create a future where all communities have access to fast, affordable, and reliable Internet.

This show is 35 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris speaks with Joshua Breitbart, Senior Vice President of the ConnectALL Office at Empire State Development in New York. They delve into New York’s municipal infrastructure program, which is investing over $200 million into municipal broadband across the state. Joshua shares insights on the ConnectALL initiative, which aims to transform New York's digital infrastructure with over a billion dollars in public funding.

The discussion highlights the importance of state and local partnerships in developing diverse models for municipal broadband. Joshua explains how the program leverages federal funding, such as the Capital Projects Fund (CPF), to support a range of approaches tailored to meet local needs. The conversation covers various projects, including Dryden Fiber, Southern Tier Network, and initiatives in Franklin County, illustrating the innovative ways these communities are expanding broadband access.

Joshua also reflects on the lessons learned from pilot projects and the flexibility needed to address underserved areas. The episode emphasizes the critical role of local expertise and planning in achieving digital equity and expanding broadband deployment. As the program rolls out, Joshua shares his excitement about the rapid deployment of services and the transformative impact on local communities.

Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for future updates and to explore related initiatives aimed at improving broadband access and digital equity across the state. You can find more information about the ConnectALL Municipal Infrastructure Grant Program here.

This show is 26 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris speaks again with Sean Gonsalves on recent developments in broadband infrastructure, focusing on efforts in California and Massachusetts to address digital equity and expand access to high-speed internet.

Sean and Chris discuss the California Public Utilities Commission's recent awards from the Federal Fund Account aimed at building last-mile fiber networks in cities like Oakland, San Francisco, and Fremont. These awards are significant for underserved communities and highlight the importance of public ownership in major cities. Sean provides insights into San Francisco's Fiber to Housing program, which aims to connect 30,000 affordable housing units to high-speed internet by leveraging the city's municipal fiber network.

The conversation also covers Massachusetts' broadband funding, including unexpected outcomes like substantial funding for Verizon and its implications for municipal broadband projects. They discuss the challenges cities face with the BEAD program and emphasize the need for creative public-private partnerships to solve connectivity issues.

This show is 39 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license