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.

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.

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.