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.

How MINET is Expanding Broadband in Oregon - Episode 630 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
In this episode of the podcast, Chris chats with PJ Armstrong, General Manager of MINET, about expanding reliable Internet in Oregon. Discover how MINET is tackling broadband challenges, from innovative rural builds to free public Wi-Fi, while achieving remarkable community support and market penetration.

Local Energy Solutions and Broadband Parallels - Episode 629 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
In this first episode of the new year, Chris and John Farrell delve into the parallels between broadband and electricity, exploring the challenges of monopolies, the power of local solutions, and the role of technology in reshaping infrastructure. Tune in for a fresh perspective on building a resilient, community-focused future.

Year in Review 2024 - Episode 628 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
In this year-end episode, the team reflects on 2024’s biggest broadband moments—from BEAD delays and ACP’s collapse to Vermont’s bold community-driven efforts. Join Chris and the CBN crew as they revisit predictions, debate key issues, and share insights on what’s next for community broadband

NEK Broadband’s Big Merger and Bold Vision - Episode 627 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
In this episode of the podcast, we explore how NEK Broadband is transforming connectivity in Vermont’s rural Northeast Kingdom. Executive Director Christa Shute shares insights on their recent merger, workforce training programs, and innovative strategies to bridge the digital divide while ensuring affordability for underserved communities.

Unpacking the History of Telecommunications Policy with Gene Kimmelman - Episode 626 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
In this episode of the podcast, Chris chats with Gene Kimmelman about the historical roots of telecommunications policy, including the 1992 Cable Act and the rise of broadband as an essential service. They explore how deregulation shaped today’s Internet landscape and discuss the ongoing fight for affordable, equitable access.

DV Fiber and Vermont’s Bold Broadband Model - Episode 625 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
In this episode of the podcast, Chris chats with Steven John of DV Fiber to explore how Vermont’s Communications Union Districts are transforming broadband access in rural areas. Learn how this unique public-private model is connecting communities, overcoming challenges, and paving the way for universal, high-speed Internet.

Internet at $25: How Pharr is Making It Work - Episode 624 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
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.

How U.S. Courts Are Reshaping Broadband Access - Episode 623 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
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.

Kendall County’s Broadband Ambition - Episode 622 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on

Community Broadband Networks 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.

Starlink, Caps, and Consumer Concerns - Episode 621 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

By on
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.