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.

Shared Airwaves, Public Good: Why CBRS Matters More Than Ever - Episode 652 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, David Zumwalt joins the show to break down why CBRS—shared spectrum that powers broadband in rural and underserved areas—is under threat. He and Chris explore how corporate lobbying could unravel a successful model that’s fueling innovation and connectivity nationwide.

Pennywise, Pound Foolish: Inside the BEAD Program’s Latest Shakeup - Episode 651 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this Monday edition of the podcast, Evan Feinman returns to break down the Trump administration’s latest changes to the BEAD program. He and Chris dig into how prioritizing short-term savings over long-term infrastructure could leave millions with slower, pricier Internet access.

BEAD: No NOFO Fo Sho - Episode 650 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris welcomes back Gigi Sohn for a rapid-fire reaction to Commerce Secretary Lutnick’s latest testimony and the ongoing BEAD program freeze. They unpack the political motivations, and what's really at stake for states ready to build broadband networks.

BEAD in Limbo: How Federal Delay Is Shaking Up Louisiana's Broadband Future - Episode 649 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Josh Etheridge of EPC joins us to talk about how the BEAD delay is hitting Louisiana hard—from stalled projects to laid-off workers—and why this federal pause is putting connectivity and local businesses at risk.

Kansas City's Digital Equity Journey - Episode 648 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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Tom Esselman of DEPO-KC joins us to talk about Kansas City’s long digital equity journey—from Google Fiber to grassroots partnerships—and why local trust and nonprofit leadership are key to closing the digital divide.

The Hidden Cost: The Ripple Effects of Canceling the Digital Equity Act - Episode 647 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris speaks again with Jade Piros de Carvalho to explain how canceling the Digital Equity Act doesn’t just cut digital inclusion programs—it threatens entire state broadband offices and the future of BEAD.

President Trump Targets Digital Equity Act —What It Means for Communities and the Future of Connectivity - Episode 646 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this urgent episode of the podcast, Angela Siefer and Amy Huffman join us to respond to President Trump’s declaration that the Digital Equity Act is “unconstitutional.” We break down what the Act actually does—and what’s at stake for millions of Americans if it disappears.

Broadband at a Crossroads: Evan Feinman on Getting BEAD Right - Episode 645 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down again with Evan Feinman to share what it took to launch the biggest broadband investment in U.S. history. He reflects on what went right, what still worries him, and why local leadership is key to getting it right.

Stringtown, MO Gets Connected: How Local Partnerships Are Closing the Rural Broadband Gap - Episode 644 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris talks with Patty Boyers and Robbie Myers on how local collaboration and smart public investment connected Stringtown, MO—and why it’s a game changer for public safety, healthcare, and opportunity.

BEAD Under Threat: Fiber, Satellites, and the Fight for the Future of Rural Internet Access - Episode 643 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, former BEAD Director Evan Feinman joins us to unpack the sudden shift in federal broadband policy—and how it could derail state-led fiber projects in favor of satellites. With billions at stake, the conversation cuts to the heart of what’s really happening behind the scenes.