Community Broadband Bits

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. ★ Support this 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. ★ Support this 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. ★ Support this 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. ★ Support this 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. ★ Support this 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. ★ Support this 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. ★ Support this 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.  ★ Support this 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. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Sean discuss key updates on broadband initiatives, including California’s Fiber Fund and Paul Bunyan Cooperative's innovative approach. They also highlight the importance of Federal Rescue Plan Funding for community networks and introduce ILSR’s new map, showcasing municipal broadband projects across the U.S. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris speaks with Monique Tate and Raul Enriquez from Community Tech New York (CTNY) on how they're empowering communities through hands-on technology training and their Portable Network Kit (PNK). Learn how CTNY is fostering digital equity, building local networks, and helping neighborhoods stay connected in emergencies. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris dives into Clarksville's transition to XGS-PON technology with CDE Lightband's Christy Batts and Amanda Cherry. Discover how this upgrade is future-proofing their broadband network, enhancing service efficiency, and tackling the unique challenges of serving a military town—all while exploring the role of AI in customer service. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris dives into the Connect Superior initiative with Stephanie Becken, Broadband Manager for the City of Superior. Discover how this ambitious project is transforming broadband access in Superior, Wisconsin, and what it means for the community's future connectivity. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris talks with Lindsey Skolnik from the California Alliance for Digital Equity (CADE) about closing the digital divide in California. Discover key initiatives like the Middle Mile project, digital discrimination legislation, and the collaborative efforts driving broadband access for all communities. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris talks with Joshua Breitbart, Senior VP of the ConnectALL Office, about New York's ambitious municipal broadband initiative. Learn how over $200 million is being invested to expand broadband access across the state, leveraging diverse local partnerships and innovative models to bridge the digital divide. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Sean discuss recent broadband infrastructure developments in California and Massachusetts, including significant funding awards and innovative programs like San Francisco's Fiber to Housing initiative. Tune in to hear about the challenges and solutions in expanding digital equity and high-speed internet access for underserved communities. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris talks with Eric Sasaki about Los Angeles County's innovative efforts to bridge the digital divide. Discover how the county is using federal funding and public-private partnerships to provide affordable, high-quality internet access to underserved communities. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris talks with Gigi Sohn and Bill Coleman about the benefits and challenges of community-controlled broadband networks. They discuss strategies for building public broadband, the importance of local support, and share insights from successful case studies. Tune in to learn how communities can take control of their digital future. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Ry chat with Ellie de Villiers, Executive Director of Maple Broadband, about Vermont's innovative approach to bridging the broadband gap through the Communications Union District model (CUD). They explore the unique partnerships and challenges faced in expanding internet access to underserved areas, offering insights into the future of rural broadband deployment. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Chris speaks with Jade Piros de Carvalho, former head of the Kansas Office of Broadband Development, discussing the challenges of bridging the digital divide. Jade shares her journey from rural broadband expansion to managing significant funding aimed at improving broadband access in Kansas, emphasizing community-driven solutions and the multifaceted nature of deployment. ★ Support this podcast ★