In this episode of the podcast, Chris sit down again with Matt Rantanen to discuss the transformative impact of the Tribal Broadband Bootcamps. 

Rantanen shares insights on the evolution of these hands-on training sessions, which empower tribal communities with the technical skills and policy knowledge needed to build and sustain broadband networks. 

We explore the challenges tribes face in accessing high-quality Internet, the role of community-driven solutions, and what’s next for broadband expansion in Indian Country. 

Tune in to learn how these bootcamps are equipping Indigenous leaders with the tools to close the digital divide.

This show is 37 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Monique Tate and Raul Enriquez, co-directors of Community Tech New York (CTNY), to explore how grassroots efforts are transforming digital equity. CTNY is dedicated to creating community-centered solutions for digital justice, with a focus on engaging and empowering local residents.

Monique and Raul discuss the origins and evolution of CTNY, emphasizing their commitment to breaking down the barriers of technology through hands-on training and education. A key highlight of the conversation is the Portable Network Kit (PNK), a versatile tool designed to help communities build their own local networks. They delve into how the PNK serves as both an educational resource and a practical solution for emergency preparedness, allowing communities to maintain connectivity even in times of crisis.

Throughout the episode, they also touch on the broader implications of digital inclusion, from preserving cultural legacies to fostering economic and political empowerment. Whether it's using technology to archive community histories or ensuring that neighborhoods have the tools they need to stay connected during disasters, CTNY is at the forefront of building resilient, informed, and connected communities.

This show is 40 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

This week on the podcast, Christopher speaks with Deb Socia, President and CEO, and Geoff Millener, Chief Operating Officer, of the Enterprise Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Enterprise Center is a non-profit partner to the City of Chattanooga that unites people, organizations, and technology to build an advanced and inclusive future.

The group discusses the HCS ED Connect program, a transformative initiative providing free home Internet access to low-income students in Chattanooga, and its notable impact on parent engagement and student success.

Deb and Jeff also shed light on the Orchard Knob project, leveraging technology to better health outcomes in African-American neighborhoods, and the Tech Goes Home program, offering technology access and training for seniors and their underserved populations.

Throughout the conversation, the group underscores the vital role of partnerships and community engagement in successfully implementing these initiatives. They conclude by emphasizing the overarching need for universal broadband access as a driving force behind fostering positive change in communities.

This show is 38 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.