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.

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.

Broadband Bottlenecks and Bureaucracy: What’s Holding the Internet Back? - Episode 642 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Sascha Meinrath dig into what's gone wrong with federal programs like BEAD and digital equity grants, and what it means for the future of Internet access.

Tribal Broadband Bootcamps in Action - Episode 641 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Matt Rantanen shares how Tribal Broadband Bootcamps are equipping Indigenous leaders with the technical skills and policy know-how to build and sustain their own networks. Tune in to learn how these hands-on trainings are closing the digital divide in Indian Country.

Rethinking the Internet with Bob Frankston - Episode 640 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by Bob Frankston to challenge the traditional telecom model and explore why Internet access should be treated like a public utility. He explains how shifting to a community-owned model could unlock innovation and make connectivity more resilient.

Future-Proofing Texas Schools with Better Internet Infrastructure- Episode 639 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Michael Keough from Region 16 Education Service Center shares how they’re upgrading Internet infrastructure for 60 Texas school districts. He explains how a new 10 Gig ring network and edge data centers will improve reliability, drive competition, and support future technologies.

BEAD’s Next Steps: Unpacking State Progress and Challenges - Episode 638 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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States are moving forward with BEAD funding, but uncertainty looms over potential changes to the program. In this episode of the podcast, Heather Mills joins to break down what’s happening, what’s at stake, and what communities need to know. Tune in for key insights on the future of broadband expansion.

Independent Agencies Under Threat: Gigi Sohn on FCC’s Future - Episode 637 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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Is the independence of agencies like the FCC under threat? What does that mean for broadband policy and the future of communications? In this episode, Gigi Sohn joins Chris to break down the latest power struggles, what’s at stake, and why it matters for everyone. Tune in for a critical conversation on the intersection of policy, politics, and broadband access.

The Potential of Fiber: Smart Cities, BEAD, and Municipal Broadband Financing - Episode 636 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Sean explore the unexpected potential of fiber optic sensing, the latest on BEAD funding, and details on an upcoming webinar with Gigi Sohn on financing municipal broadband projects!

Consider Affordable Broadband State-By-State - Episode 635 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this special episode of the podcast, we revisit our live forum called "Consider Affordable Broadband State by State" to explore how New York’s Affordable Broadband Act is setting a precedent, what other states are doing, and why this fight matters for digital equity nationwide.

No Shareholders, Just Service: Sherwood, Oregon’s Community Broadband Success - Episode 634 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Mayor Tim Rosener and IT Director Brad Crawford share how Sherwood, Oregon built its own fiber network, expanded into rural areas, and kept prices low—all while ensuring top-notch service. Tune in to hear how local leadership is making fast, reliable Internet a reality!