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.

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!

Championing Community Broadband in Montana with Representative Kelly Kortum - Episode 633 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Representative Kelly Kortum of Montana to discuss his fight to repeal laws blocking municipal broadband and expand access to rural communities. Drawing on his personal journey with limited Internet, Kortum highlights the challenges posed by outdated legislation and the critical role of cooperatives and nonprofits in bridging the digital divide. Tune in to hear how local control and equitable broadband can drive innovation and economic growth.

Predictions for 2025: CBN Edition - Episode 632 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Chris and the CBN team dive into bold predictions about BEAD funding, affordability programs, and the growing role of satellite providers. Hear how state policies, federal actions, and industry shifts could shape the future of Internet access and digital opportunity.

2025 Predictions with Blair Levin - Episode 631 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

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In this episode of the podcast, Blair Levin joins Chris to discuss the 2025’s biggest broadband challenges and opportunities. From the expiration of the Affordable Connectivity Program to shifts in media regulations and satellite Internet, this episode unpacks what’s next for broadband and telecommunications in the U.S.